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
24 snips
Mar 14, 2025 • 46min
Texan-Palestinian Comic Mo Amer
Mo Amer, a Texan-Palestinian comedian known for his Netflix series 'Mo', shares his journey from a refugee to a stand-up performer. He highlights the intersection of his Palestinian roots and Texas culture, especially how country music shaped his identity. Amer also discusses the humor in navigating immigration challenges and the significant moments that fuel his comedic inspiration. Film critic Justin Chang gives a review of 'Black Bag', exploring themes of loyalty and betrayal in a gripping thriller.
18 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 46min
Remembering The South African Playwright Who Defied Apartheid
Athol Fugard, a renowned South African playwright known for his poignant works on apartheid's emotional scars, discusses the fight against censorship and the importance of integrated theater. He reflects on his experiences and the responsibilities of artists in oppressive times. Jerry Butler, iconic soul singer and songwriter, shares his rise from group dynamics to solo success, revealing personal stories behind his hit 'He Will Break Your Heart.' Their conversations highlight the resilience and legacy of art amidst societal challenges.
151 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 59min
Comic Bill Burr [Extended Version]
Bill Burr, a stand-up comedian known for his provocative humor, opens up about his childhood experiences and how they shaped his comedy. He shares insights from a recent therapeutic mushroom trip, exploring personal growth and the nuances of cancel culture. With his characteristic anger, he critiques liberal hypocrisy, questioning societal double standards. Burr also reflects on the evolution of his comedic style and offers a humorous take on navigating life's imperfections, all while promoting his new Hulu special, 'Drop Dead Years.'
52 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 45min
The Gutting Of The Department Of Education
Laura Meckler, a National education writer for the Washington Post, dives into the shocking 50% workforce cut at the Department of Education. She discusses the major repercussions for civil rights enforcement, student loans, and educational governance. David Bianculli, a TV critic, reviews the gripping historical drama A Thousand Blows, highlighting its exploration of Victorian London’s boxing world, and the intricate friendship at its core. Together, they tackle the implications of political shifts on education and the compelling narratives of their respective fields.
61 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 44min
The Campaign To Silence Journalists & Undermine Free Speech
David Enrich, the Business investigations editor for the New York Times and author of "Murder the Truth," delves into the alarming rise of legal threats against journalists. He discusses the pivotal New York Times Co. v. Sullivan case and its crucial role in safeguarding free speech. Enrich highlights how current political climates are reshaping libel laws, the chilling effects of legal malice, and the evolving definitions of public figures. This conversation underscores the urgent need for robust protections for independent journalism in an increasingly hostile environment.
98 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 46min
Comic Bill Burr On Musk, Magic Mushrooms & Healing From His Childhood
Bill Burr, a stand-up comedian and actor famed for his contrarian humor, dives deep into his tumultuous childhood, revealing how laughter became his shield. He candidly discusses a therapeutic mushroom experience that helped him process past traumas and reflects on his evolving views on marriage and fatherhood. The conversation also touches on his critiques of cancel culture and feminism, blending humor with insightful commentary. Burr's new special, "Drop Dead Years," provides a backdrop to this engaging exploration of comedy and personal growth.
Mar 8, 2025 • 48min
Best Of: Jazz Clarinetist Doreen Ketchens / 'White Lotus' Actor Natasha Rothwell
Doreen Ketchens, a beloved New Orleans clarinetist known as "Lady Louie," shares her musical journey and the profound bond she had with her late husband, drawing inspiration from Louis Armstrong. Natasha Rothwell, acclaimed for her role in HBO's The White Lotus, discusses her character's evolution and the intricate dynamics between wealthy guests and hotel staff. Additionally, book critic Maureen Corrigan reviews Judith Giesberg's 'Last Seen,' highlighting the emotional stories of newly-freed Black Americans searching for lost family.
17 snips
Mar 7, 2025 • 45min
Remembering New York Dolls Frontman David Johansen
David Johansen, co-founder of The New York Dolls and later known as lounge singer Buster Poindexter, reflects on the band’s flashy influence on punk rock. He shares personal anecdotes about the song 'Personality Crisis' and the complexities of artistic identity. Film critic Justin Chang reviews Bong Joon-ho's 'Mickey 17,' discussing its existential themes and the challenges faced by its protagonist. Together, they explore how performance and gender expression shaped both music and film, highlighting Johansen's enduring legacy.
29 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 45min
Actor Simu Liu On Diving In The Dark
Simu Liu, renowned for his role as Shang-Chi, shares his journey from childhood in China to Hollywood stardom. He recounts the harrowing true story behind his new film, Last Breath, which dives deep into the world of saturation divers. Liu reveals the struggle of meeting parental expectations as an immigrant child and the pressing issues of cultural identity. He also reflects on the importance of representation in cinema and how his breakthrough role has influenced his life and career.
56 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 42min
How Did DEI Become Part Of A Political Agenda — And A Slur?
Join Harvard's Frank Dobbin and Georgetown's Ella Washington as they tackle the polarizing landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). They explore the historical context of DEI initiatives and the consequences of backlash in corporate and political arenas. The conversation reveals the impact of dismantling DEI efforts on various communities and discusses the importance of accessibility for all. They also share strategies for effective workplace inclusion and how Gen Z's expectations are reshaping these initiatives. Tune in for a critical look at DEI's future!
