Fresh Air
NPR
Fresh Air from WHYY, the Peabody Award-winning weekday magazine of contemporary arts and issues, is one of public radio's most popular programs. Hosted by Terry Gross and Tonya Mosley, the show features intimate conversations with today's biggest luminaries. Subscribe to Fresh Air Plus! You'll enjoy bonus episodes and sponsor-free listening - all while you support NPR's mission. Learn more at plus.npr.org/freshair And subscribe to our weekly newsletter, Fresh Air Weekly, to get interview highlights, staff recommendations, gems from the archive, and the week's interviews and reviews all in one place. Sign up at www.whyy.org/freshair
Episodes
Mentioned books
5 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 48min
Best Of: Actor Leslie Uggams / Martha's Vineyard's Indigenous Past & Present
Leslie Uggams, a multi-talented actor and singer who began her career at just 6 years old, shares insights about her groundbreaking roles, including her powerful performance in Roots and her continued success in productions like Empire and Deadpool. Joining her is Joseph Lee, a writer from the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe, who discusses his book 'Nothing More of This Land', revealing the often-overlooked Indigenous history of Martha's Vineyard and the complexities of cultural identity. Together, they explore resilience, heritage, and the stories behind their legacies.
5 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 47min
Remembering Lyricist Alan Bergman / The 'Outrageous' Jessica Mitford
Jessica Mitford, an unconventional British writer known for her explosive works like The American Way of Death, discusses her radical views and the absurdities of the funeral industry. Alan Bergman, a legendary lyricist, reminisces about his 60-year partnership with his wife, showcasing timeless songs like 'The Way We Were.' The conversation intertwines their creative processes and legacies, shedding light on Mitford's political awakening and Bergman's musical innovation, making for a captivating mix of art and activism.
26 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 45min
The Shifting Landscape Of Higher Education
Katherine Mangan, Senior Writer for The Chronicle of Higher Education, sheds light on the current tumultuous landscape of higher education. She discusses the Trump administration's pressure on elite universities and the scrutiny faced by George Mason University regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts. Mangan delves into the challenges leading to university leadership resignations and the implications of funding cuts, framing a compelling narrative of how political influences are reshaping the academic environment.
34 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 45min
A Chatbot Reacts To A Book About Tech
In this engaging discussion, tech journalist and novelist Vauhini Vara, author of 'Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age,' delves into her unique experiment with ChatGPT, critiquing AI's influence on writing and creativity. She tackles the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI interactions and its limitations in capturing human emotions, especially in sensitive topics like grief. Vara also reflects on the users' complicity in data exploitation while playfully exploring the significance of language and the shifting landscape of late-night television with critic David Bianculli.
10 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 46min
Leslie Uggams Looks Back On Her Decades In Show Business
In this engaging conversation, Leslie Uggams, a trailblazing actress and singer, reflects on her remarkable career spanning decades. She shares memories of groundbreaking roles in 'Hallelujah Baby' and 'Roots,' emphasizing the importance of family support. Uggams also pays tribute to Ethel Waters, highlighting her significant impact on representation. She reminisces about her thrilling time on 'Name That Tune' and the challenges of racial prejudices in the industry. With a deep appreciation for her origins in Harlem, Uggams showcases the resilience and magic of her artistic journey.
38 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 45min
Martha's Vineyard's Indigenous Past & Present
Joseph Lee, an Aquinnah Wampanoag writer and author, sheds light on the indigenous narratives overshadowed by Martha's Vineyard's celebrity appeal. He discusses the complexities of identity and land sovereignty faced by Indigenous communities, highlighting the emotional toll of seeking federal recognition. Lee also shares insights on revitalizing the Wampanoag language and the significance of storytelling in preserving cultural heritage. Through his unique perspective, listeners gain a deeper understanding of indigenous struggles and resilience.
Jul 19, 2025 • 47min
Best Of: Stacey Abrams / Raphael Saadiq
Stacey Abrams, a renowned voting rights activist and bestselling author, discusses her new thriller that delves into themes of AI ethics and justice. She shares insights on voter suppression and the importance of free elections. Raphael Saadiq, a Grammy-winning musician, reflects on his musical journey from church performances to producing for big names like Beyoncé and D'Angelo. He emphasizes the significance of authentic audience connections in live performances while showcasing his latest creative endeavors.
26 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 47min
In The Dugout With Baseball All Stars
Join Jamie Moyer, a former MLB pitcher with an impressive 25-season career, and Brad Ausmus, a legendary catcher and manager. They dive into the evolving strategies of baseball, including adapting to new technologies and the psychological nuances of pitching and catching. Moyer shares personal adaptations as the game transforms, while Ausmus discusses the mental hurdles players face. They also reminisce about memorable home plate collisions, balancing safety and strategy, showcasing the rich layers of teamwork and rivalry in America's pastime.
7 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 2min
Congress has voted to eliminate government funding for public media
Congress's recent decision to eliminate federal funding for public media raises alarms about the future of local journalism. The discussion highlights the critical role of public media in providing trustworthy news, especially for rural communities. The speaker emphasizes community engagement and calls for listener donations to keep these essential services afloat. Without support, the survival of public media hangs in the balance.
43 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 44min
The Dominance & Decline Of The Condé Nast Magazine Empire
Michael Grynbaum, a New York Times correspondent and author of "Empire of the Elite," delves into the rise and fall of the Condé Nast magazine empire. He highlights the transformative shift at Vogue with Anna Wintour's departure amid digital changes. Grynbaum also discusses Condé Nast's pivotal role in shaping Donald Trump's image and how modern fashion events reflect current media tensions. Additionally, he shares insights into The New Yorker’s impressive financial turnaround and offers a nostalgic glimpse into his early passion for journalism.
