Bullseye with Jesse Thorn

Elliot Kalan, comedy writer and former head writer for The Daily Show and MST3K, and author of Joke Farming. He explains his shift from waiting for inspiration to a repeatable joke-writing process. He breaks jokes into parts like voice and structure. He talks about writing for other voices, handling tragic news sensitively, and choosing timeless over topical comedy.

Susan Orlean, award-winning nonfiction writer behind The Orchid Thief and The Library Book, discusses turning her attention inward in Joyride. She talks about reporting adventures, risky assignments, and the tiny details that make stories sing. The conversation explores immersion journalism, career-wide curiosity, and why noticing matters to narrative nonfiction.

Isiah Whitlock Jr., a veteran actor best known for his memorable role as Clay Davis on The Wire, reflects on his remarkable career. He shares how his role in The Wire reshaped his profile and his approach to playing morally complex characters. Whitlock recounts his journey from a sports-loving youth in South Bend to a successful New York actor, connecting with fellow stars like Denzel Washington. He also discusses his passion for winemaking and the legacy of his iconic catchphrase, leaving listeners with a deeper understanding of his craft.

Walton Goggins, an acclaimed actor celebrated for his roles in Justified and The Hateful Eight, dives into his latest project, Fallout. He shares how his character, The Ghoul, surprisingly became an accidental sex symbol and discusses the challenges of wearing heavy prosthetics. Goggins also reveals his love for horseback riding, influenced by his father's larger-than-life persona. He reflects on his journey, from reducing his Southern accent to creating deep, relatable characters, all while maintaining a fun, captivating flair in his storytelling.

Mary Roach, a science writer known for her humorous investigations into unusual topics, dives into body part replacement in her latest book. She shares fascinating stories, like a Georgian surgeon using a finger for penile surgery and the quirks of historical nose replacements. Roach also explores the science behind skin grafts and hair transplants, recounting her own experience donating follicles. Plus, she delves into the ethical dilemmas of using genetically engineered pigs for organ transplants, blending humor with the grisly realities of medical advancements.

Regina Hall, acclaimed actor from hits like The Best Man and Scary Movie, shares her journey from journalism to acting. She reveals her early influences, from a love for storytelling to pondering a life as a nun. Hall reflects on how personal loss shifted her focus and led her to pursue acting as an emotional outlet. She discusses her diverse career choices, especially the evolution of her character, D'Andra, in the new film One Battle After Another, all while highlighting the importance of embracing one's purpose.

This week, LaRussell, a prolific Bay Area rapper and independent artist, joins the conversation. He shares insights about throwing memorable backyard shows featuring artists like Juvenile and how he turned viral moments into business savvy. LaRussell discusses his journey from juggling multiple jobs to fully committing to music, the joyfulness of Bay Area hip-hop, and his collaboration with Lil Jon. He reflects on the challenges of being an independent artist and plans for long-term success while staying true to his roots.

Rian Johnson, the visionary writer and director behind the Knives Out series, dives into his background growing up in an evangelical youth group in Orange County. He discusses how this unique upbringing informs his exploration of faith in his new film, Wake Up, Dead Man, set within a Catholic church. Rian shares his love for genre structures as a way to tackle deeper themes, the challenges of low-budget filmmaking, and the emotional significance of collaborating with friends. He reflects on the fluidity of artistry on set and the importance of creating a filmmaking community.

Sudan Archives is a vibrant violinist, singer, and songwriter known for her unique fusion of classic violin with electronic dance music. In this chat, she dives into her latest album, The BPM, revealing its club influences and punchy beats. She shares stories from her childhood, the impact of her church upbringing on her artistry, and her journey from Cincinnati to LA's experimental scene. Sudan also discusses the creative process behind her music, her twin sister's support on tour, and her ongoing quest for mastery in violin craftsmanship.

This week, we’re joined by Johnny Knoxville. He’s been at the center of the Jackass universe for more than two decades and has performed stunts in all its iterations. Now in his 50’s, Knoxville has found ways to keep working without risking death. In the coming weeks, he'll host Fear Factor: House of Fear, a new reboot of the early 2000s reality competition show. Knoxville reflects on his time making Jackass, and what it’s been like to age into (and out of) the dangerous world of stunt performing. A version of this interview originally aired in August of 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy