Fresh Air

Jason Isbell, an acclaimed singer-songwriter renowned for his introspective lyrics, dives deep into themes of love and heartbreak. He candidly discusses his recent split from musician Amanda Shires and the emotional journey captured in his album 'Foxes in the Snow.' The conversation explores the complexities of songwriting, personal growth, and the delicate balance of empathy and anger in his lyrics. Isbell also shares insights on navigating sobriety, confronting challenges, and rediscovering vocal strength, making for a compelling and heartfelt listen.

Daniel Kanstroom, a respected Professor at Boston College Law School and an expert in immigration, dives into the alarming trend of ICE arrests targeting international students on U.S. campuses. He highlights the chilling message these round-ups send, illustrating the human cost and legal challenges faced by non-citizens. Kanstroom explores the erosion of civil liberties and discusses the historical roots of birthright citizenship, emphasizing its significance. The conversation sheds light on America's identity crisis around immigration and calls for urgent reform.

Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Hilton Als, renowned for his cultural critiques in The New Yorker, delves into the profound themes of silence and expression in art. He examines how unspoken words enrich personal relationships and influence creativity, drawing from figures like Richard Pryor. The conversation touches on his latest exhibition, which artfully showcases the visual interpretation of silence. Als also explores the impact of familial connections, particularly his relationship with his father, on identity and artistic development.

Stephen Graham, a British actor known for his roles in 'This Is England' and 'The Irishman', stars in the thought-provoking miniseries 'Adolescence'. He discusses the dark inspiration behind the show, focusing on youth crime and its roots. Graham reveals the unique filming technique used—shot in a single take—enhancing the raw emotional impact. He also reflects on fatherhood and the societal challenges it entails, providing a personal touch to the storytelling. Additionally, he shares insights from his role as a bare-knuckle boxer in 'A Thousand Blows'.

Hanif Kureishi, an award-winning screenwriter and author of "Shattered," shares his profound journey after a life-altering fall and his newfound sense of purpose through writing. He candidly discusses vulnerability and resilience while exploring identity. Journalist Clay Risen delves into his book "Red Scare," shedding light on the anti-communist hysteria of post-WWII America and its chilling parallels to current politics. TV critic David Bianculli reviews the BritBox series "Ludwig," unraveling its intriguing blend of mystery and familial ties.

Sigrid Nunez, the National Book Award-winning author of 'The Friend', discusses profound themes of grief, suicide, and companionship. She explores the intricate bond formed with her late friend's dog and reflects on the emotional complexities of loss. Nunez shares her personal experiences navigating relationships and reshaping her views on independence. The conversation delves into societal perceptions of grief and the unique challenges of urban dog-walking, shedding light on the enduring connections between love, loss, and resilience.

Robert Worth, a contributing writer at The Atlantic known for his expertise in the Middle East, discusses the complexities of Syria's political landscape under Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former jihadist advocating for unity. The conversation touches on the geopolitical impact of Syria on neighboring countries and the ongoing struggle for stability. Worth also delves into U.S. military actions in Yemen, the Houthis’ influence on global trade, and the challenges facing transitional leadership amid a fractured society and external pressures.

In a candid conversation, Amanda Knox, an American author and advocate for criminal justice reform, shares her harrowing story of wrongful conviction and the survivor's guilt that haunts her. She reflects on her transformative time in an Italian prison, where she became a translator for inmates. Knox discusses the emotional complexities of navigating grief after loss and her journey of self-discovery post-incarceration. Amidst her trauma, she emphasizes the importance of understanding and humanity in confronting the legal system.

Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater, both veteran reporters for The New York Times and co-authors of "Mad House," delve into the chaos of the 118th Congress. They highlight the historically low legislative output dominated by MAGA influence and the breakdown of civility among lawmakers. The discussion reveals anxieties surrounding Medicaid cuts and the impact of wealthy figures like Elon Musk on politics. Listeners will gain insights into the shifting power dynamics and challenges faced by legislators, particularly younger women in a male-dominated environment.

Elie Mystal, a legal scholar and author of "Bad Law," dives into the serious flaws of ten laws he believes are ruining America. He critiques the Hyde Amendment's toll on reproductive rights and details the adverse effects of airline deregulation on travel experiences. Mystal discusses systemic issues in immigration law and voter registration, calling for urgent reforms. He also shares personal anecdotes about his childhood influences and reviews the captivating new mystery series 'Ludwig,' adding a dash of whimsy to the conversation.