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
137 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 45min
This Anti-Social American Life
Derek Thompson, a writer for The Atlantic and author of insightful books like "Hitmakers," discusses the loneliness epidemic gripping America. He explores how technology and remote work contribute to isolation, especially among young people. Thompson highlights the paradox of increased leisure time yet diminished face-to-face interactions. He emphasizes the need for genuine connections to combat loneliness and argues for community engagement to bridge political divides. The conversation provides a thought-provoking look at social dynamics in today's digital age.
10 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 45min
What The Color Blue Tells About Black History
Imani Perry, an award-winning author and scholar renowned for her insights into African American culture, dives deep into the rich symbolism of the color blue. She uncovers its historical ties to the indigo trade and the emotional weight in jazz music, particularly through Louis Armstrong's poignant song. The discussion also explores the dark legacy of labor exploitation in producing indigo and its connections to modern issues. Ultimately, Perry highlights blue as both a symbol of struggle and hope within African American history.
Jan 27, 2025 • 46min
Questlove Digs Into 50 years Of 'SNL' Musical Hits (And Misses)
Questlove, the Grammy-winning musician and co-founder of The Roots, discusses his new documentary, highlighting 50 years of iconic musical moments from 'Saturday Night Live.' David Bianculli, a TV critic and professor, joins to reflect on SNL's influence in promoting groundbreaking artists and moments like the Ashley Simpson incident. They dive into the chaos of live TV, the pressures faced by artists, and Questlove's insights on the cultural significance of these performances. Plus, a brief look at Ringo Starr's latest country album adds a musical touch!
4 snips
Jan 25, 2025 • 49min
Best Of: Jesse Eisenberg / Pamela Anderson
Jesse Eisenberg, known for roles in "The Social Network" and "Zombieland", discusses his directorial debut, "A Real Pain", exploring themes of mental health and historical trauma during a Jewish heritage tour in Poland. Pamela Anderson, famed for "Baywatch", shares her journey in "The Last Showgirl", where she portrays a veteran Vegas dancer facing career challenges. Both guests reflect on personal struggles, resilience, and the complexities of fame, intertwining their artistic pursuits with deep familial connections.
60 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 47min
Remembering David Lynch
David Lynch, the master of surrealism in cinema, and Isabella Rossellini, actress and daughter of legends, share their insights on the iconic works of Lynch. They discuss how Lynch's unique storytelling in films like Eraserhead and Blue Velvet pushes boundaries and challenges viewers' interpretations. Rossellini reflects on the fascinating dynamics of her role in Blue Velvet, while they both explore the intricate relationship between urban landscapes and narrative depth, showcasing the profound psychological layers woven into Lynch's films.
22 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 44min
Trump's Foray Into Cryptocurrency
Investigative reporter Zeke Fox, author of "Number Go Up," dives into the Trump family's lucrative crypto ventures that raise ethical concerns about political influence. He explores how cryptocurrencies have shifted from decentralized currencies to speculative assets, with Trump endorsing various meme coins. The discussion touches on Bitcoin's limited supply, potential regulatory changes under Trump, and the dubious practices of Tether, illuminating the murky waters of the crypto market and its far-reaching implications.
16 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 45min
Pamela Anderson Is Still Reinventing Herself
Pamela Anderson, a renowned actress and model, reflects on her transformation from '90s sex symbol to a serious performer. She discusses her role in 'The Last Showgirl' and her journey of personal reinvention, emphasizing the complexities of motherhood and fame. Pamela opens up about her decision to ditch makeup, embracing authenticity in an industry obsessed with beauty standards. She also shares touching memories of her childhood and her desire to connect with her true self, showcasing resilience and the power of storytelling.
Jan 21, 2025 • 44min
Jesse Eisenberg Hated Bar Mitzvahs As A Kid
Jesse Eisenberg, an acclaimed actor and director known for films like 'The Social Network,' opens up about his new film, 'A Real Pain,' which centers on a Jewish heritage tour in Poland. He discusses the concept of tragedy tourism, sharing his discomfort with the suburban bar mitzvah culture that once made him uneasy. Eisenberg also reflects on his childhood vulnerability and the impact of theater on his identity, revealing how his mother's career as a birthday party clown influenced his artistic journey.
46 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 45min
MLK, The Organizer & Radical Thinker
Tressie McMillan Cottom, a sociologist and New York Times columnist, teams up with Eddie Glaude Jr., a prominent scholar at Princeton, to dissect the complexities of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy against the backdrop of Trump's inauguration. They address the vital significance of remembering King as a radical thinker and organizer, while discussing how his vision for economic justice remains relevant today. Their conversation underscores the ongoing struggle for social justice and the importance of bridging moral convictions with political action.
22 snips
Jan 18, 2025 • 48min
Best Of: Learning From Silence / Comic Roy Wood Jr.
Pico Iyer, an author who lost everything in a California wildfire, shares how his transformative experience in a Benedictine monastery shaped his life and writing. He reflects on the power of silence amidst chaos and modern disconnection. Meanwhile, comedian Roy Wood Jr., known for his special "Lonely Flowers," discusses the role of humor in tackling serious societal issues. He highlights the importance of authenticity and originality in comedy, drawing from personal experiences to illustrate his journey through laughter and legacy.
