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
20 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 46min
Virgil Abloh's Unconventional Path To Luxury Fashion
In a captivating conversation, Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Robin Givhan reflects on the groundbreaking legacy of designer Virgil Abloh, the first Black American artistic director of menswear at Louis Vuitton. She shares insights from her book, exploring how Abloh blended streetwear with luxury fashion, redefining cultural norms in the industry. Givhan discusses his unique upbringing, collaborations, and the challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs, while also touching on fashion's role in contemporary political discourse. A fascinating dive into creativity and accessibility in fashion!
51 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 46min
Ebon Moss-Bachrach Takes Us Inside 'The Bear' Kitchen
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, a two-time Emmy winner known for his role as Cousin Richie in The Bear, shares insights into the show's surprisingly calm set amidst kitchen chaos. He discusses the evolution of his character and the emotional depth woven into the storyline, including themes of grief and fatherhood. Moss-Bachrach also reflects on his journey in the industry, from Girls to his upcoming Marvel role, touching on the complexities of acting and personal growth. Plus, he highlights the interplay of humor and tension in familial relationships within a bustling restaurant.
42 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 45min
Will Israel And The U.S. Attacks On Iran Affect Tehran's Regime?
In this engaging discussion, Karim Sadjadpour, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment, offers his expert insights on Iran's turbulent political landscape. He analyzes how U.S. and Israeli military actions could either bolster the authoritarian regime or fuel its decline. Sadjadpour delves into the evolving Iran-Israel rivalry, the implications of Khamenei's declining health, and the recent Women Life Freedom protests, shedding light on the nation's complex future amidst calls for change.
59 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 46min
Gen Z Is Having Less Sex. Why?
Carter Sherman, a reproductive health and justice reporter at The Guardian, discusses the surprising decline of sexual activity among Gen Z. She cites factors like miseducation, digital disconnection, and political pressures reshaping intimacy. Sherman shares insights from over 100 interviews with young people and experts, exploring how restrictive sexual education, particularly in conservative areas like Texas, impacts relationships. The rise of troubling attitudes, such as those found among incels, further complicates this landscape. Her book, The Second Coming, dives deeper into these themes.
9 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 49min
Best Of: Benicio del Toro / Molly Jong-Fast
Benicio del Toro, acclaimed actor known for his roles in films like 'Traffic' and 'Sicario', shares insights about his latest project with Wes Anderson, reflecting on his journey from Puerto Rico to Hollywood. Meanwhile, Molly Jong-Fast, a political analyst and author, opens up about her complicated upbringing as the daughter of famous novelist Erica Jong, discussing fame's burdens and her memoir on loss. Together, they explore the intricate dynamics of familial legacy and the impact of cultural shifts on personal identity.
11 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 46min
Remembering Pioneer Of Gay Lit, Edmund White
Edmund White, an iconic figure in gay literature known for his semi-autobiographical works like 'A Boy's Own Story,' reflects on his profound impact on LGBTQ+ culture. He discusses the evolution of gay identity and the literary challenges he faced in a pre-acceptance era. With poignant anecdotes on love, loss, and the AIDS crisis, White shares his journey of self-acceptance and creativity. The conversation honors his legacy while bridging the worlds of literature and music, especially through the lens of the jazz contributions by Mary Halvorson.
24 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 44min
Painter Titus Kaphar On 'Exhibiting Forgiveness'
Titus Kaphar, a painter, sculptor, and installation artist known for deconstructing classical art to reveal hidden truths, shares his transformative journey. He discusses his life-altering decision to create the feature film 'Exhibiting Forgiveness' after abandoning a documentary project. Kaphar dives into the emotional complexities of familial forgiveness and artistic identity, while also addressing the struggles of financial realities in the art market. His poignant reflections highlight how art can serve as a powerful tool for understanding personal narratives and societal issues.
16 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 44min
Podcaster Dan Taberski's Investigation Into An Outbreak Of A Mysterious Illness
Dan Taberski, a renowned writer and producer known for his engaging audio documentaries like Missing Richard Simmons, delves into a perplexing outbreak of tics and spasms among high school girls in Leroy, New York. He examines the complex interplay between societal perceptions and psychological stress fueling this contemporary case of mass hysteria. Taberski also reflects on his investigative storytelling methods and discusses the emotional impact of events like 9/11, showcasing how trauma shapes personal narratives and creative expression.
25 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 45min
'Seinfeld' Writer & 'Borat' Director Larry Charles
Larry Charles, renowned for his work on 'Seinfeld' and films like 'Borat,' shares insights from his memoir, *Comedy Samurai*. He reflects on his near-death experience, sparking a deep dive into the complexities of humor in serious themes like societal accountability and LGBTQ+ representation. Charles also discusses the challenges of provocative comedy, highlighting his creative journey shaped by Brooklyn's punk culture. With candid thoughts on mortality, compassion, and legacy, he underscores the healing power of laughter amid life's unpredictability.
22 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 45min
Witnessing Executions In America's Prisons
Elizabeth Bruenig, a staff writer at The Atlantic, shares her compelling experiences as a witness to state-sanctioned executions. She delves into the emotional and moral complexities of witnessing, highlighting themes of mercy, forgiveness, and redemption. The discussion touches on botched executions and their ethical implications, while exploring the harsh realities faced by death row inmates. Bruenig reflects on how witnessing impacts perspectives on justice and the evolving landscape of capital punishment in America.
