This American Life

Lenny Davis, a distinguished professor emeritus, shares a startling family secret about his parentage, revealing a possible connection to his uncle via artificial insemination. Meanwhile, Paul Tough, a contributing editor, recounts his father’s eccentric journey to connect with extraterrestrial life, posing deep questions about their relationship. Each narrative explores the complexities of father-son dynamics, identity, and the longing for understanding, revealing that the answers we seek may lead to unexpected discoveries.

Dive into the quirky world of doppelgängers, where identities twist and turn unexpectedly. Discover the shocking truth about 'artificial calamari' that might leave you cringing at your dinner choices. Join a culinary adventure as chefs transform hog rectum into a surprisingly tasty dish. Explore the chilling parallels between urban youths' trauma and combat veterans' experiences, all while unraveling the complexities of identity and community. It's a humorous yet poignant journey through food, self-discovery, and the human condition.

In this insightful discussion, reporter Mohammed Mhawish, who left Gaza a year ago, shares gripping stories of survival and resilience amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis. He highlights the dire conditions faced by families grappling with hunger due to blockades and war. Engaging with a young woman from Gaza, Mhawish reveals the emotional toll of separation from loved ones and the profound connections maintained through technology. Listeners witness the intersection of hope and despair as personal narratives illuminate the human spirit's tenacity during conflict.

In this engaging discussion, comedian Mike Birbiglia shares humorous yet profound insights sparked by his daughter's innocent questions. He navigates how these inquiries serve as mirrors, revealing unexpected facets of his identity as a father and individual. The conversation reveals the struggles of providing simple answers while reflecting on personal truths and growth. Tune in for a delightful exploration of parenting, self-discovery, and the hilarity that often accompanies serious introspection.

People immersed in chaos try to solve for what it all adds up to. Visit thisamericanlife.org/lifepartners to sign up for our premium subscription.Prologue: A scientist who is used to organizing data starts tracking scientific meetings that seem to exist only on paper—meetings that might decide the fate of years of research. The NIH website shows one reality; the empty conference rooms tell another story. She graphs the chaos. (9 minutes)Act One: American doctors returning from Gaza compare notes and start to see a pattern. (28 minutes)Act Two: A woman watches her partner get taken in handcuffs with no explanation. Days later, she spots him in the most unexpected place. The coordinates of her life suddenly don't make sense as she navigates the bewildering map of the US immigration system. (23 minutes)Transcripts are available at thisamericanlife.orgThis American Life privacy policy.Learn more about sponsor message choices.

A couple devises a strategy to get their daughter's killer prosecuted and to get attention for other Native families.  Visit thisamericanlife.org/lifepartners to sign up for our premium subscription.Prologue: Mika Westwolf was killed in a hit-and-run on a Montana highway. Her parents thought the driver might get away with it. The driver was white. Mika was a citizen of the Blackfeet Nation. (1 minute)Act One: Mika’s parents, Carissa Heavy Runner and Kevin Howard, share recordings of their interactions with law enforcement. (8 minutes)Act Two: Carissa and Kevin take matters into their own hands. (20 minutes)Act Three: The county prosecutor explains why he let Mika’s killer out of jail. Will Carissa and Kevin's efforts pay off? Sierra follows them to court. (33 minutes)Transcripts are available at thisamericanlife.orgThis American Life privacy policy.Learn more about sponsor message choices.

Emmanuel Dzotsi, a producer at This American Life, vividly shares his experiences around the dismantling of the Black Lives Matter mural in D.C. Ranjani Srinivasan, a Columbia graduate student, recounts a harrowing five-day ordeal after her visa was revoked, navigating the complexities of ICE. Laura Starecheski provides a gripping account of a court hearing about the Trump administration’s transgender military ban, highlighting the emotional and legal tensions surrounding identity and justice. Together, they paint a compelling picture of our turbulent times.

Kwaneta Harris, a former nurse in Texas, sheds light on her unique experience providing medical advice to fellow inmates. She discusses the challenges and stigma of healthcare in prison, emphasizing the need for dignity and understanding in desperate situations. The conversation dives into the emotional complexities of life behind bars, revealing the connections formed through shared struggles. Kwaneta’s story highlights how even in confinement, compassion and expertise can foster a sense of community and support among women.

Unnecessary and outrageous lies that make you wonder — why lie about that in the first place? Visit thisamericanlife.org/lifepartners to sign up for our premium subscription.Prologue: Kasey, a woman who prides herself on her truthfulness, tries to help host Ira Glass figure out how to stop lying about one specific thing. (10 minutes)Act One: Producer Dana Chivvis talks to reporter Liz Flock about a strange experience she had in 2011. (21 minutes)Act Two: Host Ira Glass talks with M. Gessen about a lie they've been seeing out in the world a lot recently — the “bully lie.” (15 minutes)Act Three: We find someone brave enough to stand up and make a case FOR lying. That person is producer Ike Sriskandarajah. (8 minutes)Transcripts are available at thisamericanlife.orgThis American Life privacy policy.Learn more about sponsor message choices.

Zach Mack, a reporter, shares a compelling story of attempting to mend his relationship with his father, who is deeply immersed in conspiracy theories. Their unique agreement sparks a bet that could redefine their connection, highlighting the tensions that arise from their clashing beliefs. Zach's mother and sister add emotional depth, reflecting on how these dynamics affect the entire family. The conversation journeys through faith, identity, and the challenge of maintaining love amid profound divisions.