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
12 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 46min
Saoirse Ronan Says Being A Child Actor Shaped Her — For The Better
Saoirse Ronan, a four-time Oscar nominee known for her roles in Little Women and Lady Bird, shares her journey from child actor to Hollywood star. She discusses her new films, The Outrun and Blitz, and the emotional challenges of portraying addiction and motherhood. Ronan reflects on the nurturing environments essential for child actors and how childhood experiences shape identity and language. She also highlights the authentic mother-daughter dynamics in Lady Bird, showcasing the importance of genuine storytelling in her work.
11 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 47min
Remembering Quincy Jones
Quincy Jones, a legendary composer and producer who shaped the sound of American music, shares his extraordinary journey from playing with Ray Charles in his teens to collaborating with icons like Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson. He reflects on his groundbreaking work on albums such as 'Thriller,' revealing insights into his partnership with Jackson and the magic behind the music. Listeners enjoy a heartfelt look back at his memorable encounters and the cultural impact he left throughout his incredible career.
Nov 4, 2024 • 46min
Al Pacino Looks Back On A Legendary Career
Al Pacino, the iconic Oscar-winning actor known for his role in classics like The Godfather, opens up about his remarkable journey from the South Bronx to Hollywood stardom. He reflects on the impact of childhood trauma and his foray into avant-garde theater. The conversation delves into a near-fatal battle with COVID and the lessons it taught him about life and mortality. Pacino also discusses his decision-making process regarding The Godfather Part II and shares insights from his new memoir, Sonny Boy, revealing the man behind the intense performances.
Nov 2, 2024 • 49min
Best Of: Alex Van Halen / Painter Titus Kaphar
Alex Van Halen, the renowned drummer and co-founder of Van Halen, dives into his grief and reflections on brotherhood in his memoir 'Brothers.' He shares wild stories of their iconic rock journey alongside the impact of losing Eddie. Artist Titus Kaphar discusses his film 'Exhibiting Forgiveness,' tackling family estrangement and personal reconciliation through art. Carolina Miranda reviews the Netflix adaptation of 'Pedro Páramo,' exploring themes of love, death, and power in the narrative. A thought-provoking blend of music, art, and film awaits!
Nov 1, 2024 • 48min
Remembering 'Tootsie' Actor Teri Garr
Tributes pour in for Teri Garr, the beloved actress known for her iconic roles in 'Tootsie' and 'Young Frankenstein.' She shares her journey through multiple sclerosis, becoming a poignant advocate for research and support. The discussion revisits her memorable performances and delightful interactions, including connections with Elvis Presley. Insights into the character dynamics in 'Tootsie' highlight her comedic brilliance. Through her story, resilience and positivity shine as key themes, inspiring listeners to embrace adversity.
Oct 31, 2024 • 46min
What About Foreign Interference In The 2024 Election?
David Kirkpatrick, a New Yorker staff writer specializing in technology and national security, discusses the critical efforts to protect U.S. elections from foreign interference, highlighting the complex disinformation campaigns from nations like Russia and Iran. Meanwhile, jazz critic Martin Johnson reminisces about the late Benny Golson, celebrating his influential contributions to music. They touch on the emotional stress of the upcoming 2024 election and the cultural solace that jazz can provide during turbulent times.
7 snips
Oct 30, 2024 • 47min
The Organization Ready To Help Trump Override The Federal Gov't
Ken Bensinger, a Pulitzer Prize finalist from the New York Times, discusses the influential America First Policy Institute and its nearly 300 executive orders poised to reform civil service and more in a potential Trump second term. He underscores the Institute's controversial ties to Trump's agenda and compares it to Project 2025. Meanwhile, film critic John Powers examines the poignant film 'A Real Pain', exploring how it blends humor with the complexities of Jewish identity and historical trauma, offering a thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Oct 29, 2024 • 46min
Alex Van Halen On Eddie, Fire & 'Feeling It'
Alex Van Halen, the legendary drummer and songwriter of Van Halen, shares intimate stories from his memoir 'Brothers,' recounting his life with brother Eddie and the emotional impact of his passing. He reflects on their wild rock and roll journey, touching on unforgettable moments like lighting his drums on fire. TV critic David Bianculli reviews the changing landscape of television, highlighting how streaming services are reshaping the industry and the notable shows to watch this fall.
Oct 28, 2024 • 46min
How The Culture Wars Split A Church
Eliza Griswold, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'Circle of Hope', sheds light on the splintering of a progressive church in Philadelphia due to internal conflicts over race and inclusivity. She discusses how the establishment of the Black Girl Cell aimed to empower Black women but also stirred tension. The conversation delves into the evolving nature of faith amidst societal changes, the complexities of trust within a divided congregation, and the intersection of faith with politics, particularly in relation to evangelical support for Trump.
Oct 26, 2024 • 49min
Best Of: Bridget Everett / Nick Harkaway, John le Carré's Son
Bridget Everett, acclaimed cabaret singer and star of HBO's Somebody Somewhere, shares her journey of embracing body positivity and humor while navigating grief and LGBTQ community ties. Nick Harkaway, son of spy novelist John le Carré, discusses his novel, Carla's Choice, reimagining the iconic George Smiley's legacy. Ken Tucker reviews a new biography of Randy Newman, exploring his artistic struggles and social commentary. Together, they delve into themes of identity, belonging, and the artistic process in a vibrant conversation.
