Zach Mack and his dad try to mend a rift between them in a very unusual way.  Visit thisamericanlife.org/lifepartners to sign up for our premium subscription.Prologue: Ira Glass introduces Zach Mack’s story. (1 minute)Part One: Zach and his father enter into an agreement that could change their entire relationship. (9 minutes)Part Two: Zach’s mother and sister weigh in on the agreement. (28 minutes)Transcripts are available at thisamericanlife.orgThis American Life privacy policy.Learn more about sponsor message choices.

The podcast tackles the evolving discourse on diversity, equity, and inclusion in America. It features a Texas principal facing backlash for promoting open conversations about race. Personal stories reveal the emotional turmoil caused by a disturbing group chat that objectifies Black students, highlighting the challenges of navigating identity in a largely white community. The discussion also emphasizes the critical need for representation in literature amid ongoing efforts to censor Black authors, advocating for a broader understanding of race in education.

For Valentine's Day, stories from the heart of heartbreak. Visit thisamericanlife.org/lifepartners to sign up for our premium subscription.Prologue: Host Ira Glass talks with Lauren Waterman, who's in the middle of a break-up right now and grappling with totally contradictory feelings. (5 minutes)Act One: In the wake of a break-up, writer Starlee Kine finds so much comfort in break-up songs that she decides to try and write one herself—even though she has no musical ability whatsoever. For some help, she goes to a rather surprising expert on the subject: Phil Collins. (29 minutes)Act Two: Eight-year-old Betsy Walter goes on a campaign to understand her parents' divorce — a campaign that takes her to school guidance counselors, children's book authors, and the mayor of New York City. (10 minutes)Act Three: Ira talks with divorce mediator Barry Berkman about why it's bad when the justice system gets involved in a break-up. (8 minutes)Act Four: What divorce looks like from the dog's point of view. (5 minutes)Transcripts are available at thisamericanlife.orgThis American Life privacy policy.Learn more about sponsor message choices.

Valerie Kipnis, a dedicated producer, shares her insights on the chaotic world of urban parking. Hear about a determined man's mission to alleviate the weekly frustrations of street parking in bustling New York City. The discussion touches on the quirks of city life, comic misadventures, and the vibrant community dynamics that arise from navigating these challenges. Kipnis also weaves in humorous anecdotes that highlight the absurdities of modern living and the unexpected connections formed amid the hustle and bustle.

Armando Ianucci, the brilliant British comedy writer behind hits like Veep, shares insights on the intersection of humor and societal issues, particularly in light of current events. Susan Burton, editor and reflective voice, explores the tumultuous transition into menopause, discussing the fears and newfound self-awareness that can arise. Together, they navigate the complexities of change—whether in politics or personal life—illuminating how humor and introspection can help us cope during pivotal moments.

Josh Johnson, a comedian, dives into the controversial topic of spanking and its long-lasting effects on discipline, prompting laughter and reflection. Writer Etgar Keret shares an intriguing tale about a bus driver who strictly enforces rules, leaving late passengers to ponder their choices. John Mulaney, currently starring on Broadway, shares his flair for storytelling, combining humor with poignant moments. Amidst these narratives, themes of kindness in a harsh world and the delicate dance of human emotions resonate throughout their discussions.

Lilly Sullivan, a producer for the show, shares a poignant personal story about her family, uncovering surprising truths that challenge her long-held beliefs. Musician Mike Comite takes listeners on a nostalgic journey, revisiting a pivotal Bonnaroo experience with Weezer that left him questioning missed opportunities. The discussions unravel the threads of personal history and memory, showcasing how tiny moments can shape our perceptions and relationships throughout life.

Banias is an 8-year-old kid living in Gaza. And she has a story to tell — many stories, in fact. Visit thisamericanlife.org/lifepartners to sign up for our premium subscription.Prologue: While on the phone with reporter Maram Hamaid in Gaza, producer Chana Joffe-Walt gets interrupted by Maram’s daughter––Banias, eight, who grabs the phone from her mother and starts telling us about her life. The narrator arrives. (8 minutes)Part One: Banias, an 8-year-old in Gaza, tells us about her life––her friends, the games she plays, the things she cares about. Everything but the war going on around her. (25 minutes)Part Two: Banias talks about the war. (20 minutes)Transcripts are available at thisamericanlife.orgThis American Life privacy policy.Learn more about sponsor message choices.

Nancy Updike shares her insights as a producer on the remarkable grassroots efforts in Venezuela to ensure a fair election. She details how hundreds of thousands of citizens worked tirelessly to create an independent, verifiable record of votes amid political turmoil. The episode also contrasts Venezuela's election challenges with the experiences of American poll challengers. Uncovering tales of determination and resilience, it paints a vivid picture of the struggle for democracy and the lengths individuals go to uphold electoral integrity.

Daniel Alarcón, a novelist and journalist, recounts the captivating journey of Keiko the killer whale, who was taken from the wild and became a beloved attraction. Environmental activist Dave Phillips shares insights into the grassroots campaign aimed at rescuing and rehabilitating Keiko after 'Free Willy' tugged at public hearts. The podcast dives into the emotional connections formed during Keiko's captivity and the ethical dilemmas faced by his caretakers, highlighting the broader implications for wildlife conservation.