Bullseye with Jesse Thorn

Stefan Babcock and Steve Sladkowski of the punk rock band PUP dive into their new album, discussing its themes and the evolution of their music. They reflect on the unique challenges of balancing personal lives with touring demands. The duo shares humorous anecdotes from their early UK tour, highlighting the camaraderie within the punk community. They also explore embracing vulnerability in their music, mental health's impact on performance, and their growth as artists navigating the ever-changing punk landscape.

Akiva Schaffer, director and writer known for his work with The Lonely Island, dives into the anticipated reboot of The Naked Gun. He shares the challenges of reviving a classic while respecting its legacy and discusses balancing fresh humor with nostalgia. Akiva reveals why Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping didn’t resonate with audiences despite critical acclaim. He reflects on the evolving landscape of comedy and the joy of creative collaboration, highlighting the unique blend of hip-hop and humor that defines his work.

In 2021, Arooj Aftab became the first Pakistani to win a Grammy. It was a Best Global Music Performance for her single "Mohabbat" off of her 2021 album Vulture Prince. Her latest album is called Night Reign. Like Vulture Prince, It's ethereal and beautiful and kind of haunting. In this conversation, Aftab talks about the influence of Meshell Ndegeocello on her work, being a recording gear nerd in addition to being an artist, and how great the Urdu language is for metaphorical writing.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Eugenio Derbez, a renowned comedy actor celebrated for his work in both Latin America and the U.S., shares insights from his vibrant career. He discusses the unique challenges of translating humor for bilingual audiences. The journey from telenovelas to Hollywood was not without its struggles, but it brought newfound freedom from celebrity pressures. Eugenio also reflects on cultural contrasts between life in Los Angeles and Mexico City, offering a glimpse into the emotional complexities faced by the Mexican community in the U.S.

Megan Stalter, an actor and comedian known for her role as Kayla Schaefer on 'Hacks' and the film 'Cora Bora', delves into her comedic journey and the complexities of navigating long-distance relationships. She shares her experiences transitioning from a digital world to traditional showbiz, reflecting on her upbringing in a Pentecostal church and the quest for belonging in the queer community. Stalter also discusses balancing humor and emotional depth in her character's dynamics, illustrating how comedy can be both transformative and deeply personal.

Tramell Tillman, known for his role as Mr. Milchick in the sci-fi workplace series Severance, shares insights on his unique character, collaborating with Ben Stiller to bring Mr. Milchick to life. He discusses his upbringing in Baltimore and his early work on The Wire, revealing how his faith experience in the Baptist church shaped his identity. Tillman reflects on his transition from a conventional career to acting, navigating the challenges of fame while embracing his artistic journey and the complexities of personal success.

The discussion centers around the congressional cuts to federal funding for public media. It explores the potential negative impact on local journalism and community access to vital information. Personal stories highlight the importance of public media in fostering informed citizenship. Listeners are encouraged to support these essential services to ensure they remain free and accessible to all.

Hayden Pedigo, a folk guitarist from Amarillo, Texas, shares insights into his songwriting and the release of his new record, I'll Be Waving As You Drive Away. He discusses the deep emotional ties of his music, performing live pieces that reflect his childhood experiences. Hayden delves into the role of silence in his performances, the connections to his Texas roots, and influences from musicians like John Fahey. With personal anecdotes and a unique approach to acoustic guitar, he captivates listeners with the transformative power of his craft.

Richard Kind, a character actor with an impressive resume including roles in 'Only Murders in the Building' and 'Curb Your Enthusiasm,' discusses his love for supporting roles over stardom. He shares hilarious anecdotes from his work with John Mulaney and Martin Short, recounts his unexpected journey from law school to acting, and reflects on the joys and complexities of improvisation. Kind also opens up about his beloved pet pig Max and the unique challenges of navigating admiration and self-doubt in the world of performance.

Rickey Vincent, a music historian and UC Berkeley professor, dives deep into the legacy of Sly Stone, the funk legend. He discusses what set Sly apart in the music industry and his profound impact on the funk genre. The conversation highlights Sly's innovative sound, blending musical elements and cultural diversity. Vincent also reflects on Sly's personal struggles and the emotional depth of his songwriting. The episode celebrates how Sly's storytelling resonated with audiences, ensuring his legacy endures in American music.