This American Life
851: Try a Little Tenderness
Jan 12, 2025
Josh Johnson, a comedian, dives into the thorny topic of spanking, reflecting on his own childhood and its implications. Etgar Keret, a celebrated writer, shares a whimsical yet thought-provoking tale about a bus driver who won't open the doors for late passengers, exploring themes of fairness and human connection. John Mulaney, a renowned actor and comedian, brings his storytelling flair, leaving listeners chuckling while tackling the intricacies of everyday life with humor and heart.
59:33
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The podcast illustrates how siblings can transform intense emotions and conflicts into constructive communication through humor and creativity.
- It underscores the necessity of empathy and grace in handling anger, both among children and in broader societal interactions.
Deep dives
Navigating Sibling Anger
May, a first grader with a fiery temper, struggles to manage her frustrations, particularly with her older sister Johanna. Their morning routine often escalates into tantrums, especially when May feels dictated by Johanna’s fashion advice. During one heated moment, May screams that punching her sister is the only way to calm down, illustrating the intense emotions children can experience. Ultimately, the conflict resolves when May approaches Johanna with her demands, leading to a physically humorous yet constructive compromise that channels her rage in a harmless way.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
