Hrishikesh Hirway

Hrishikesh Hirway, a talented singer-songwriter and host known for his engaging podcasts, joins for a fascinating exploration of family secrets and dynamics. He reflects on how gossip shaped personal relationships and cultural experiences, illustrating with heartwarming anecdotes of arranged marriages. The conversation dives into eccentric family legends, particularly those around Grand Aunt Julia, including her intriguing psychic prophecies. Humor intertwines with serious discussions on legacy and hidden truths, making for a captivating and relatable narrative.

In an era dominated by labels, how can we fully embrace the nuances of being human? This hour, TED speakers share ideas for reconciling conflicting emotions and circumstances to make art and find joy. Guests include authors Gabby Rivera and Susan Cain, musician and podcast creator Hrishikesh Hirway, and Olympian Allyson Felix.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This summer, I gave a TED Talk at the TED Conference. My talk was about what you discover when you really listen. It was based on how making Song Exploder has changed the way I think about conversations and connecting with people. My talk came out today on the TED website and on the TED Talks Daily podcast, and the very nice folks at TED asked if I would also put the audio of the talk here, on Song Exploder. And I normally wouldn’t put this much of myself on here, but they asked, and like I said, they were very nice. I hope this isn’t too meta, to talk about the show, and what I get out of making it. But it also features some music, including beautiful cello played by Yo-Yo Ma, so there’s that to look forward to. Here it is, my TED Talk on what you learn when you listen closely. To listen to my song with Yo-Yo Ma, visit https://ffm.to/betweenthereandhere. For more, visit songexploder.net/ted.

Hrishikesh Hirway, a musician and the mind behind the acclaimed Song Exploder podcast and Netflix series, shares his creative journey. He reveals how a disappointing album led him to launch Song Exploder, examining the delicate balance between artistic freedom and commercial success. Hrishikesh discusses the challenges of evolving from a band member to a solo artist and the transformative experience of transitioning his podcast to Netflix. He emphasizes embracing change and the importance of self-identity in the creative process.

Samin Nosrat, bestselling author of *Salt Fat Acid Heat*, and Hrishikesh Hirway, host of *Song Exploder*, dive into the delightful world of cookies. They humorously debate the best olive types while reminiscing about cookie-hunting adventures. The trio explores the perfect cookie texture, balancing crunch and chew, and shares baking techniques. Their nostalgic reflections on youth and cooking creatively tie together the love for food, infusing joy into the culinary experience. Tune in for laughter and cookie wisdom!

Hrishikesh Hirway, creator of 'Song Exploder', joins Dave and Chris to discuss creating 'Cookie Exploder', U2's surprise album release, eating habits, dinner party playlists, and the impact of restaurant music. They also explore the challenges of transitioning a podcast to TV, vegan diets, meat substitutes, and curating music for dinner parties.

Samin Nosrat, Hrishikesh Hirway, and Josh Malina star in a tale about Misery coming to life. Olexandra faces challenges and outsmarts Misery, finding fortune. Listeners share their favorite Circle Round stories, showcasing diverse characters and lessons.

The host interviews Hrishikesh Hirway, the host/producer of the podcast Song Exploder. They discuss re-contextualizing familiar songs, interviewing guests, the impact of a song on an artist's career, lessons from Dan Harmon, exploring vocal loops and samples, breaking down jokes and songs, and reflections on the evolution of the podcast.

Hrishikesh Hirway, musician and podcaster talks about his passion for understanding the creative process of songs and how it led him to create the Song Exploder podcast. They discuss the significance of curation, the balance between personal taste and audience appeal, and the role of human taste in the age of AI. Other topics include how songs are chosen for the podcast, cultivating listening skills, and favorite chocolate chip cookies.

Authors Gabby Rivera and Susan Cain, musician and podcast creator Hrishikesh Hirway, and Olympian Allyson Felix share ideas on embracing complexity and reconciling conflicting emotions. They discuss topics such as the significance of America Chavez as the first Latina queer superhero, the complexities of human nature and assigned labels, the journey of a musician and podcast creator, and the challenges faced by female athletes in balancing motherhood and careers in track and field.