Bullseye with Jesse Thorn

Megan Stalter, an actor and comedian famous for her role as Kayla in 'Hacks,' shares insights about her journey in comedy and acting. She discusses her new film 'Cora Bora,' exploring themes of love and identity as a singer-songwriter in a challenging long-distance relationship. Stalter reflects on her upbringing in a Pentecostal church and the unique blend of faith and queer identity. With humor, she navigates themes of confidence and vulnerability on stage, showcasing the importance of self-awareness in her performances.

Actor and comedian Paul Scheer discusses his new book and recounts a compelling encounter with Christopher Walken. He shares childhood stories, his love for the LA Clippers, and memories of running a video store. The podcast delves into his personal journey and reflections on trauma and cinema.

Lead singer Tim Harrington and bassist Syd Butler of Les Savy Fav discuss their new album recorded in Harrington's attic, Harrington's bipolar disorder diagnosis, and their 30-year journey in the music industry with reflections on creativity and vulnerability on stage.

Lead singer of System of a Down, Serj Tankian, discusses his new memoir, band's music evolution, and emotional connection in metal music. He explores identity, intergenerational trauma, and the making of albums 'Mesmerize' and 'Hypnotize'. Tankian reflects on childhood experiences, his music career journey, and the unique sound of System of a Down.

Molly Gordon joins us to talk about starring on FX's hit series The Bear. She get into what it's been like working with the incredible cast and how it's been to play a resident ER doctor on the show. She also shares what it was like growing up with parents who worked in show business and tell us what they taught her about filmmaking.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ms. Pat's standup comedy is direct, clever and raw. She headlines shows all over the country and she's got her own TV show - The Ms. Pat Show on BET Plus. We'll get into her Emmy nominated sitcom, her extraordinarily difficult road to success and why she decided to take a chance on standup in the first place. Plus, a bonkers story about the time she took an order from a U.S. President at a fast food restaurant.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Tanya Tucker is a country music legend! She's been singing since she was nine years old and has released about two dozen records in her time. When Tanya was last on Bullseye, she had just released her Grammy award-winning album While I'm Living. She talks about the album, turning down Elvis Presley, and so much more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Chances are you've probably seen Kaitlin Olson on It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The show's been on the air for almost two decades now! Olson also performs on the TV comedy Hacks. She earned an Emmy nomination for her part on the show. When Olson came on Bullseye back in 2015, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia had just wrapped its 10th season! She talked with us about morally broken comedy characters and whether it's a good idea to fall in love with the creator of your TV show.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Twyla Tharp is a legend in the world of dance. She's danced and choreographed professionally for nearly 60 years. Tharp is 82 and she's still working just as hard as ever. She has a new show that she choreographed – How Long Blues. When we spoke to Twyla she had just written a book called Keep it Moving: Lessons for the Rest of Your Life. We're thrilled to revisit this conversation. She's one of the most insightful, hilarious, and sassy guests we've ever had on the show.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Michael Stipe is forever cemented in the minds of music fans as the lead singer of R.E.M., one of the biggest rock bands in history. He's also made some fun appearances on shows like At Home with Amy Sedaris and The Adventures of Pete and Pete. R.E.M. was also recently inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame where they performed their classic song "Losing My Religion." When Stipe was last on Bullseye, we talked with him about discovering his voice, his passion for photography, and the new music he'd been writing.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy