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
May 23, 2025 • 47min
Remembering Broadway Composer Charles Strouse
Charles Strouse, the legendary composer behind iconic musicals like Bye Bye Birdie and Annie, reminisces about his craft and the emotional depth of his work. Jay-Z joins the conversation, discussing how he sampled Strouse's 'Hard Knock Life,' highlighting the powerful themes of struggle and resilience present in both Broadway and hip-hop. Strouse reflects on the gritty essence he aimed for in his songs, while both guests celebrate the enduring legacy of musical storytelling that connects generations.
17 snips
May 22, 2025 • 45min
Walton Goggins Was Raised By A Village
Walton Goggins, an accomplished actor known for his roles in The White Lotus and Justified, shares invaluable insights from his journey. Growing up poor in the Deep South significantly shaped his acting approach. He discusses the liberating impact of travel on his storytelling and the role of community in his childhood. Goggins reflects on the delicate balance of ambition and authenticity in Hollywood, emphasizing resilience in navigating a challenging career. He also explores complex father-son dynamics, adding depth to his character development.
149 snips
May 21, 2025 • 44min
Professors Are Using A.I., Too. Now What?
Kashmir Hill, a tech reporter at The New York Times specializing in privacy and technology's unintended consequences, discusses the growing use of A.I. in education. She reveals how professors are turning to A.I. tools for teaching and grading, while students grapple with its impact on academic integrity. Hill shares her personal experiment of letting A.I. run her life for a week, raising ethical questions about dependency on technology. The conversation explores emotional attachments to chatbots and the implications of A.I.'s role in daily decision-making.
50 snips
May 20, 2025 • 44min
Inside The "Cover-Up" Of President Biden's Decline
Jake Tapper, CNN's Chief Washington correspondent and co-author of the book Original Sin, dives into President Biden's troubling trajectory. He discusses the implications of Biden’s recent health issues and cognitive decline on his re-election bid. Tapper reveals insights about the White House's efforts to manage public perception and addresses the significant critique stemming from George Clooney’s op-ed urging Biden to step back. The conversation also touches on the internal Democratic debates regarding Biden’s viability as a candidate, revealing deep party concerns.
May 19, 2025 • 46min
Cole Escola's 'Stupid' Dream Came True With 'Oh, Mary!'
Cole Escola, a comic writer and actor renowned for his Broadway show 'Oh, Mary!', shares his journey of empowering Mary Todd Lincoln with humor and heart. He reflects on growing up in rural Oregon and the surprising success of his play. Escola dives into the evolution of queer comedy, navigating societal expectations, and the unique emotional landscape of Broadway dreams. Personal anecdotes about identity and creativity add depth to his story, showcasing the intricate dance of validation and self-expression in the arts.
May 17, 2025 • 49min
Best Of: Ramy Youssef / Danny McBride
Ramy Youssef, an Egyptian-American actor and comedian known for his series 'Rami', discusses his new animated show, '#1 Happy Family USA', which humorously depicts an Egyptian American family's struggles post-9/11. He shares insights into navigating identity and cultural integration. Danny McBride, creator of 'The Righteous Gemstones', highlights the chaotic dynamics of a dysfunctional televangelist family, blending humor with poignant themes of power and approval. Both guests offer a fascinating look at their creative processes and personal journeys.
May 16, 2025 • 46min
Zombies Frontman Colin Blunstone
Colin Blundstone, the charismatic lead singer of The Zombies, shares fascinating insights from his band’s journey through the British Invasion. He discusses the impact of their iconic hit 'She's Not There' and reflects on the group's reputation as clean-cut musicians. Colin dives into their unique sound, shaped by innovative songwriting and harmonies. He reminisces about the band's ups and downs, including creative struggles and the bittersweet memories of their rise to fame, all intertwined with the release of their new documentary.
69 snips
May 15, 2025 • 46min
Navigating The 'Wellness' Epidemic
Amy LaRocca, an award-winning journalist and fashion director at New York Magazine, dives into our society's overwhelming obsession with wellness. She critiques the marketing strategies that exploit fear, particularly targeting women seeking self-improvement. The conversation also explores the paradox of the 'well woman' and how celebrity culture has shifted health norms. LaRocca emphasizes the importance of recognizing genuine self-worth amid societal pressures, and reflects on the extremes of wellness practices shaping our lives.
30 snips
May 14, 2025 • 46min
His Cancer Meds Were Nearly $1K A Pill. How Did That Happen?
David Armstrong, a Senior reporter for ProPublica, dives into the troubling world of the pharmaceutical industry, spotlighting the exorbitant cost of the cancer drug Revlimid. He discusses how this $1,000-a-pill treatment only costs a mere 25 cents to produce. Armstrong reveals the devious strategies companies employ to maintain high prices and fend off competitors. He also sheds light on the hurdles patients face with insurance denials for necessary treatments, exposing the systemic flaws in the healthcare system.
25 snips
May 13, 2025 • 45min
Ramy Youssef Animates A Muslim Family's Post-9/11 Life
In this engaging discussion, Ramy Youssef, an actor and comedian famous for his series Rami, shares his insights on his new animated show, #1 Happy Family USA. He reflects on his childhood experiences in New Jersey after 9/11, exploring complex themes like Islamophobia and identity. Youssef elaborates on the unique use of humor and music to tell stories of generational conflict within immigrant families. He also touches on the balance between faith and comedy, revealing the challenges of navigating societal expectations while staying true to one’s roots.
