This American Life

Jad Abumrad, public-radio producer and storyteller known for Radiolab, dives deep into the life of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a pivotal figure in Nigeria's anti-colonial struggle. He reveals her transformation from a society woman to a revolutionary leader, mobilizing thousands of market women against colonial oppression. Fascinating anecdotes include the formation of the Abeokuta Women's Union, dramatic protests, and the use of protest songs. Jad also highlights Funmilayo's neglected legacy, contrasting her impact with the male figures often remembered in history.

Join Robin Semien, a dedicated reporter and producer, and Brian Reed, an insightful journalist, as they explore the high-stakes world of car sales at a Long Island Jeep dealership. They reveal the intense pressure to sell 129 cars to secure a lucrative bonus, showcasing the stark contrasts between struggling salesman Bob Tantello and top seller Jason Mascia. Delve into the strategies, absurdities, and emotional toll of the sales game, where unexpected twists can lead to triumph or failure by the month's end, making every deal a nail-biter.

Brett, a former crew member at a mysterious dig on Mount Shasta, shares the bizarre and secretive nature of their work. He describes the eerie moment they unearthed peculiar rocks under guidance from a shadowy overseer. Filmmaker Elijah Sullivan provides insight into the occult theories surrounding the site’s history. Meanwhile, Lauren Peterson discusses her fascination with a glitter mystery sparked by a New York Times article, expressing her disappointment upon discovering the truth behind it.

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.

Evan Ratliff, a journalist and storyteller, dives into the fascinating world of AI by creating a voice clone of himself. He shares his wild experiments, from testing it on customer service calls to using it against telemarketers, and even sending it to Zoom meetings. Ratliff reflects on moments when people mistake the clone for the real him, revealing insights about trust in technology. The discussion also touches on the emotional implications of robotic replicas on relationships, making listeners ponder the cost of alternate selves.

Harold Washington, the groundbreaking former mayor of Chicago, and David Axelrod, a key political advisor, dive into the legacy of Washington's impactful tenure. They discuss his struggle against the city's political machine and how his candidacy changed the landscape for Black politicians. Axelrod reflects on racial dynamics and Washington's community-driven approach to governance, emphasizing equity in city services. Listeners learn about the dramatic shifts in political attitudes and how Washington's pioneering vision paved the way for future leaders like Barack Obama.