This American Life

Boen Wang believes his life's misery stems from a moment before his birth. He journeys to Norman, Oklahoma, to meet the man who changed his parents' lives. Reflecting on family history, religious upbringing, and cultural identity, the podcast explores themes of forgiveness, self-loathing, and belonging.

Mike Birbiglia, a comedian known for his sleepwalking mishaps, recounts a harrowing incident where he jumped through a window while asleep. Nancy Updike shares unsettling stories about people's encounters with roaches invading their sleep spaces. Joel Lovell reflects on his childhood decision to train himself not to sleep, leading to unexpected consequences. The podcast weaves humor and horror, exploring the irrational fears connected to sleep, from creepy critters to cinematic nightmares, reminding us just how complex our relationship with sleep can be.

Comedian Michelle Buteau, known for her book 'Survival of the Thickest,' opens up about her early romantic struggles in an engaging interview. She humorously reflects on the real-life challenges love can bring, contrasting them with the typical happy endings of rom-coms. The conversation weaves in relatable anecdotes that highlight the absurdity of love and personal growth. From navigating complex emotions to how humor plays a role in relationships, Michelle's insights provide a fresh take on the romantic comedy experience.

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.

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.