Longform

Have you ever wondered how your favorite movie or book—or podcast, TV series, documentary, or article—got made? Origin Stories has you covered. Each week, veteran journalist Matthew Shaer talks to a different writer or director about the creation of a work close to their own hearts. Nothing is off the table: not the frustrations and the joys, not the setbacks and the successes. Intimate and incisive, instructive and eye-opening, Origin Stories is the ultimate podcast for anyone curious about the workings of the creative mind. Among the early guests are Noah Hawley, creator of the new Alien show on FX; Mimi Leder, director of The Morning Show; New Yorker writer Patrick Radden Keefe; and Evan Ratliff, of Longform and Atavist fame. Hosted by Matthew Shaer, co-founder of Campside Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Jeremiah Sullivan, writer for NY Times Magazine, discusses his writing process, challenges, and stories in the podcast. Topics include memory, existential crisis, music of 2024, creative nonfiction, and writer's evolution.

The hosts answer listener questions and recommend podcasts. They reflect on the challenges of long-form journalism and the decision to end the show. They discuss interview dynamics and the impact of their podcast, brainstorming ideas for the future.

Author and journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates discusses the impact of storytelling, challenges in writing about Obama, and leaving social media. He reflects on his writing process, cultural influences in politics, and the transformative effects of his successful books on his life. The podcast also touches on navigating fame, personal relationships, and the changing landscape of the journalism industry.

Jay Caspian Kang, staff writer for The New Yorker, shares insights on podcasting vs. magazine writing, podcast recommendations, and his writing projects. Topics include creative evolution, challenges in the media industry, transitioning to filmmaking, and reflections on the podcasting journey.

Cybersecurity journalist Joseph Cox discusses his new book on the largest sting operation, FBI's encrypted phone platform infiltration, country wiretapping revelations, and bounty hunters accessing location data. He also shares insights on investigative journalism, managing overwhelming information, and the complexities of FBI interviews.

Join Tavi Gevinson, writer, actor, and founder of Rookie, as she discusses the instability of stories, memory, and identity. Dive into her connection with Taylor Swift, creative process, and evolution from music criticism to fiction. Explore the balance between truth and fiction in writing and the emotional impact of growing up and shedding past identities.

Rachel Khong, author of 'Real Americans', discusses human connection in her novel and the struggle to capture life experiences in writing. She shares insights on balancing personal writing with a journalism career and embracing imperfections in communication.

Features writer Kelsey McKinney discusses the challenges of a creative career, balancing job duties with creative work, importance of studying successful creatives, and the evolution of her writing styles. She also talks about her upcoming book on gossip, career transitions, struggles with memory recall, and the growth in handling criticism. McKinney delves into her podcasting journey, embracing the role of a podcast host, and maintaining creative autonomy amidst external pressures.

Lissa Soep, author of 'Other People’s Words: Friendship, Loss, and the Conversations that Never End,' discusses her journey from academia to journalism, emphasizing the influence of diverse voices. They explore the transformative power of words in grief, memory, and connection, delving into authorship disputes and the impact of storytelling on community.