This American Life 838: Letters! Actual Letters!
49 snips
Aug 10, 2025 
Nicole Piasecki shares a poignant letter she wrote to her father's killer's wife, exploring the complex emotions tied to trauma and understanding. David Kestenbaum recounts his nerve-wracking wait for a reply from the legendary physicist Peter Higgs after reaching out as a rookie reporter. Zoe Chase reflects on the letters from her father, highlighting the contrast between the messages received and the ones longed for, revealing deep insights about connection and loss. Together, they underscore the power of handwritten words in bridging emotional distances.
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A Day on the Route
- Ira Glass went out with a letter carrier named Grace to observe her daily route.
- Grace shared stories about various people on her route, showcasing her deep knowledge of the community.
Mailbox Mayhem
- Some customers leave their mailboxes overflowing with unwanted mail.
- This frustrates Grace, revealing a disconnect between how people value their mail.
Changing Times
- Grace recalls delivering more personal letters before the internet.
- Now, junk mail constitutes most of her deliveries.
