David Wessel, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and former Wall Street Journal journalist, dives into Donald Trump's economic plans, discussing the implications of tariffs, tax cuts, and the idea of a government efficiency overhaul led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. Meanwhile, Maureen Corrigan, a literature professor and book critic, reviews Niall Williams' poignant novel 'Time of the Child', exploring themes of community and personal struggle in a rural Irish setting. The conversation weaves together economics and literature in a captivating narrative.

Brittany Newell, an author and professional dominatrix, shares her journey from writing her first novel at 21 to creating the emotionally rich narrative in 'Softcore.' She discusses how empathy and curiosity shape both her writing and her work in BDSM. The conversation explores the true nature of BDSM spaces, challenging common stereotypes, and touches on the emotional intricacies between dominatrixes and clients. Also, Maureen Corrigan reviews two quintessential New York books, highlighting the city's literary landscape.

Richard Price, a celebrated novelist known for works like Clockers and contributions to HBO series such as The Wire, discusses his latest novel, Lazarus Man, which explores lives upended by a building collapse. He reflects on his transition from novelist to screenwriter, emphasizing how real-world struggles shaped his creativity. Maureen Corrigan shares insights on poetry, highlighting Billy Collins' exploration of aging and the touching fable, The Dog Who Followed the Moon, which delves into companionship and resilience through art.

Musician Jon Batiste, known for his work on The Late Show, shares his innovative interpretations of Beethoven in his new album, Beethoven Blues. He discusses the intersection of classical music and blues, revealing personal insights influenced by his wife's health journey. Visual artist Mickalene Thomas showcases her powerful exhibition celebrating Black women, addressing themes of race and femininity. Book critic Maureen Corrigan recommends some of the year’s best reads, adding a literary touch to this engaging cultural conversation.

Annie Lowry, a Staff writer for The Atlantic, shares her harrowing experience with chronic itch due to a rare liver condition, diving into its emotional and societal implications. Screenwriter Richard Price discusses his new novel, Lazarus Man, which highlights resilience amidst community challenges in Harlem. Maureen Corrigan recommends uplifting reads, bringing a light-hearted perspective to the conversation. Together, they explore the complex intersections of personal struggle, literature, and the nuances of human connection.

Danielle Deadwyler, an acclaimed actress recognized for her powerful roles in 'Till' and 'The Piano Lesson,' discusses her journey from Atlanta's vibrant theater scene to acclaimed films. She shares insights on embodying Mamie Till, reflecting on maternal guidance amidst racial tensions. Alongside her, literary critic Maureen Corrigan unveils her top picks for 2024, showcasing must-read titles. Together, they explore themes of heritage, cultural representation, and the emotional weight of storytelling, particularly concerning Black womanhood and historical narratives.

Maureen Corrigan, a book critic for Fresh Air and Georgetown professor, explores the enduring impact of 'The Great Gatsby' as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. She discusses the novel's themes of hedonism and societal commentary, drawing parallels between Gatsby’s tragic love and modern challenges surrounding the American Dream. Corrigan reflects on its cultural significance, the implications of censorship, and how its narrative structure remains relevant today, emphasizing the importance of keeping such classics in education.

Ann Patchett, a celebrated novelist and Parnassus Books owner, joins Eddie Glaude Jr., a prominent Princeton professor specializing in African American studies, and Maureen Corrigan, a renowned book critic from NPR. They passionately discuss their top book picks for 2024, highlighting the art of literary annotation and the emotional journeys in books like 'Sipsworth.' The trio explores themes of loss, identity, and the unique storytelling in debut novels while sharing insights on the profound connections literature fosters. A must-listen for book lovers!

Glenn Fine, a former Inspector General with a history of tackling corruption in the Justice and Defense Departments, shares riveting stories of his investigations into notable cases like the Oklahoma bombing and Guantanamo detainee treatment. He emphasizes the need for independent oversight in government, particularly how the 'Fat Leonard' scandal exposes severe accountability failures. Maureen Corrigan also critiques Alia Trabuco-Zeran's novel 'Clean', exploring class struggles and societal neglect through the lens of a housemaid's challenges in a wealthy household.

Maureen Corrigan, an insightful author focused on the significance of 'The Great Gatsby,' delves into its surprising journey from flop to masterpiece. She discusses why the novel resonates today, exploring themes of aspiration, love, and the American Dream. Corrigan emphasizes the complex legacy of Gatsby in academia and its artistic mastery by Fitzgerald. Listeners will also learn ways to enrich their next reading experience, uncovering deeper themes like comedy and class dynamics. This discussion reveals why Gatsby remains a timeless classic.