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
7 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 45min
At 3 Years Old, David Tennant Knew He Wanted To Be Doctor Who
David Tennant, the Scottish actor famous for his role as Doctor Who, shares his childhood dream of becoming the iconic Time Lord. He reflects on his early fascination with the series and how it shaped his career, from playing dark characters in Jessica Jones to Shakespearean roles. Tennant humorously discusses the challenges of fame and creativity during lockdown while collaborating on Staged. He also delves into the complexities of bringing characters to life, touching on cultural identity and the emotional depth of roles he has embraced throughout his journey.
Apr 5, 2025 • 49min
Best Of: Amanda Knox / 'Adolescence' Co-Creator & Actor Stephen Graham
Amanda Knox, an author and advocate for criminal justice reform, recounts her harrowing wrongful conviction and the ongoing impact it has had on her life. She shares insights from her new memoir, highlighting the challenges of navigating media narratives and personal trauma. Joining her is Stephen Graham, a celebrated actor and creator of the Netflix miniseries 'Adolescence,' who discusses the emotional complexities of parenting and youth violence depicted in the show. The conversation is rich with themes of redemption, identity, and the power of storytelling.
22 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 47min
Celebrating 20 Years Of 'The Office'
Jenna Fischer, known for her role as Pam in The Office, shares insights alongside her co-stars John Krasinski, the charming Jim Halpert, and Rainn Wilson, the eccentric Dwight Schrute. They celebrate the show's 20th anniversary by reminiscing about unforgettable moments and character dynamics. The trio delves into humorous audition stories, explores Michael Scott's misguided attempts at diversity, and reflects on the absurdities of office life that made the show a cultural phenomenon. Their candid conversations highlight the authentic connections formed behind the scenes.
32 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 44min
Jason Isbell On Love, Heartbreak & Songwriting
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.
19 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 45min
ICE Campus Arrests & The 'Struggle For The Soul' Of America
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.
24 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 44min
Writer, Critic & Curator Hilton Als Looks For The Silences
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.
24 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 45min
'Adolescence' Co-Creator/Actor Asks Not Whodunnit, But Why
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'.
Mar 29, 2025 • 48min
Best Of: A Writer Grapples With A Life-Changing Accident / The Post WWII 'Red Scare'
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.
8 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 45min
After A Friend's Suicide, A Writer Inherits His Grieving Dog
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.
20 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 44min
The Former Jihadist Trying To Remake Syria
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.
