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
Dec 20, 2024 • 49min
Bonnie Raitt / Francis Ford Coppola
Join Bonnie Raitt, a ten-time Grammy-winning blues musician, as she reflects on her rich musical journey and the profound influence of her predecessors like B.B. King. She shares touching stories, including a heartfelt performance with her father. Meanwhile, Francis Ford Coppola, the legendary filmmaker behind The Godfather, recounts the intriguing casting of Marlon Brando and the challenges he faced. Together, they explore the emotional depth of their crafts, celebrating their contributions to American culture.
20 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 47min
Miranda July Wants Women To Read Their Inner Lives In 'All Fours'
Miranda July, acclaimed filmmaker and author of 'All Fours', dives into the complex themes of midlife, perimenopause, and identity struggles in her novel. She candidly discusses the nuances of aging, relationships, and unexpected affairs. Kevin Whitehead, a seasoned jazz historian, transports listeners back to a 1978 concert by Sun Ra and his Arkestra, reflecting on their innovative musical style and the vibrant energy of the performance. Together, they paint a rich tapestry of personal and cultural exploration.
21 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 47min
The Looming TikTok Ban
Alan Rosenstein, an Associate Professor of Law specializing in TikTok's legal battles, discusses the imminent TikTok ban deadline and its implications for national security and free speech. He explores the challenges of data privacy and the potential role of President Trump. Meanwhile, David Bianculli, a television studies professor, highlights notable trends and standout series from 2024, celebrating the impact of veteran actors on modern storytelling. Together, they unpack significant cultural and political intersections shaping the landscape today.
Dec 17, 2024 • 47min
Billie Eilish & Finneas
Billie Eilish, a Grammy-winning singer known for her distinctive style, and her brother Finneas, a celebrated producer, discuss the life-changing impact of vocal coaching and their new album, Hit Me Hard and Soft. They reflect on their childhood, including the creation of their debut song, 'Ocean Eyes,' and share insights into the emotional themes in their music, such as body image and heartbreak. Critic John Powers adds his highlights from the year, bringing a mix of arts and culture recommendations to the table.
14 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 47min
Comedian Ronny Chieng Didn't Tell His Parents He Got A 'Daily Show' Job
Ronny Chieng, a Malaysian-born comedian and star of The Daily Show, opens up about the challenges of balancing family expectations and his career. He kept his big news a secret to avoid bragging. Chieng reflects on his journey, including the impact of politics on comedy and navigating the media's perceptions. He also discusses his multicultural identity and how it shapes his humor, revealing a newfound appreciation from his father for his comedic success.
31 snips
Dec 15, 2024 • 22min
Someone Once Told Elton John He Would Never Be A Pop Star
Pop music legend Elton John reflects on his incredible journey from a tumultuous childhood to international stardom. He humorously recounts navigating fame and the complexities of his identity, sharing the impact of early experiences on his artistry. Elton reveals how he turned self-doubt into ambition through a pivotal audition. He also pays homage to Liberace, discussing his influence on performance style, balancing flamboyance with authenticity. This candid chat offers a poignant look at the man behind the music.
10 snips
Dec 14, 2024 • 48min
Best Of: Jon Batiste's 'Beethoven Blues' / Visual Artist Mickalene Thomas
Musician Jon Batiste, known for his work on The Late Show, shares his innovative interpretations of Beethoven in his new album, Beethoven Blues. He discusses the intersection of classical music and blues, revealing personal insights influenced by his wife's health journey. Visual artist Mickalene Thomas showcases her powerful exhibition celebrating Black women, addressing themes of race and femininity. Book critic Maureen Corrigan recommends some of the year’s best reads, adding a literary touch to this engaging cultural conversation.
Dec 13, 2024 • 46min
Cynthia Erivo Sings With 'A Bit Of A Smile'
Cynthia Erivo, a British actor and singer acclaimed for her roles in Harriet and Wicked, shares her remarkable journey through music and performance. She delves into the significance of breath in singing and how it influences emotional storytelling. Erivo also reflects on her childhood experiences, her complex family relationships, and her mother's inspiring journey from Nigeria. The conversation expands to lighthearted topics, like the quirky challenges of performing arts and a whimsical miniseries about a maple syrup heist.
Dec 12, 2024 • 45min
Stephen & Evie Colbert Share The Taste Of Home
Stephen Colbert, the witty late-night host, and his wife Evie McGee Colbert, a creative partner on his show, share their culinary adventures grounded in South Carolina roots. They dive into their new cookbook, Does This Taste Funny?, filled with nostalgic family recipes and amusing anecdotes. Stephen recounts his dramatic burst appendix ordeal and their memorable meeting with the Pope. The couple also reflects on the challenges and joys of navigating fame together, highlighting the importance of food as a binding force in family life.
70 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 45min
The Housing Shortage, Explained
Ben Keyes, a Wharton professor and expert on housing markets, discusses the U.S. housing shortage of approximately 4 million homes. He links the crisis to the 2008 financial meltdown and highlights how climate change exacerbates the situation. Keyes explores soaring prices, interest rates, and innovative solutions, including repurposing federal properties. He also addresses the rising insurance costs tied to climate impacts and demographic shifts affecting homeownership, particularly in risk-prone areas like Florida.
