This American Life

Heather Gay, a former Mormon, opens up about her secret life within the church and the surprising memories shared with her daughters. Valerie Kipnis narrates the Rivera family's struggle with immigration decisions. Fidel Rivera, an undocumented father, grapples with self-deportation while his daughters, Mackenzie and Bella, express their fears and hopes as family tensions rise. As they prepare for a potential move to Mexico, the emotional and practical challenges highlight the complexities of family dynamics in the face of uncertainty.

Shalom Auslander, an accomplished author and memoirist, shares a hilarious tale of a vacation gone wrong, driven by his suspicion that the overly chatty neighbor is an imposter. Meanwhile, Richard Price, a renowned novelist and screenwriter, recounts a gripping story about racial profiling he witnessed while riding in a patrol car. The podcast also delves into the complexities of making judgments in open adoption, as Kim navigates the daunting task of choosing adoptive parents based on brief letters. Expect laughs and thought-provoking insights!

Khanna Jaffe-Walt, a reporter and producer, narrates the story of the AmeriConners, while Sam Busa, a South African organizer, mobilizes efforts for resettlement. They discuss the impact of a controversial executive order, outlining how it excited many South Africans and the community’s unique response to potential refugee status. The duo explores identity, the legacy of apartheid, and grassroots organizing that transformed a small movement into a thriving initiative. Their insights reveal complex discussions around persecution, legality, and the future of refugee policies.

Jonathan Goldstein, host of the podcast Heavyweight, joins to explore the emotional weight of inanimate objects. He delves into a family's battle with hoarding, revealing how mementos can turn into burdens. A mother grapples with her obsessive collections, causing friction with her son, who fears for their safety. As they search for solutions, her art gains validation and prompts a move towards letting go. Goldstein reflects on the bittersweet relationship we have with our possessions, emphasizing their role as vessels for memories.

Ira Glass shares exciting news about the launch of the Life Partners program. In its first year, it has successfully covered 25% of the show's budget. He emphasizes the importance of increasing listener support to ensure future stability. Ira elaborates on the meticulous production process that distinguishes their storytelling from typical podcasts. He discusses the impact of losing federal funding and invites listeners to become Life Partners, offering ad-free episodes and exclusive content as perks.

Nadia Raymond, a talented producer and reporter, joins immigration judge Kira Lillian to discuss the significant changes in the immigration court system. They dive into how recent policy shifts have made judges feel pressured and skeptical about asylum claims. Kira shares personal stories that highlight the emotional toll on judges and migrants alike. The episode lifts the veil on ICE operations in courthouses, the impact of new guidance, and the chilling effect of mass firings among immigration judges, revealing the complexities of justice in these turbulent times.

Nevaeh Parker, a dynamic leader from the University of Utah's Black Student Union, discusses her fight to preserve representation amidst restrictive anti-DEI laws. She shares the challenges of advocating for her community while managing personal and academic pressures. Meanwhile, Ike Sreesh Kandaraja dives into the contentious effects of the IRA definition of antisemitism at Columbia University, exploring how it shapes professors' teaching strategies and academic freedom. Together, they navigate the turbulent waters of identity and advocacy in today's higher education landscape.

Kieran Morris shares a hilarious tale from his youth about pulling off an elaborate soccer rumor that caught the attention of Sky Sports News. Pablo Torre, known for his investigative sports journalism, dives into the absurdity of misinformation in sports, exemplified by the enigmatic rise of a fabricated player. Together, they unravel the chaotic journey of ambition, the thrill of youthful pranks, and the unexpected consequences of how a single story can spiral into widespread fascination.

Yael Even-Or, an Israeli journalist and producer, interviews Ali Awad, a 27-year-old protector of his village Tuba in the West Bank. They discuss the escalating settler violence since October 7, revealing the daily struggles of Palestinians amid tightening Israeli restrictions. Ali shares his efforts to support his community while navigating a hostile environment. The podcast highlights personal stories that illustrate the emotional and psychological toll of conflict, underscoring the resilience and determination of those living in a volatile region.

Susan Burton, a seasoned producer and editor known for her work on The Retrievals, joins labor and delivery nurses Mindy Figueroa and Clara Hochhauser from UI Health, along with Heather Nixon, head of obstetric anesthesia. They dive into the emotional and painful realities of cesarean sections, highlighting Clara's traumatic experience of feeling surgery despite anesthesia failures. Heather challenges the medical community to address pain management inadequacies during childbirth, stressing the need for systemic change in healthcare to improve women's experiences.