Fresh Air

George Clooney, acclaimed actor and director, joins Terry Gross as she reflects on her late husband, Francis Davis, a notable writer and jazz critic. They share the heartwarming story of how Terry and Francis met, celebrating their 47 years together. Clooney discusses the legacy of Edward R. Murrow through his Broadway role, touching on themes of authenticity in journalism. The conversation meanders through the power of music, the weight of criticism in film, and the profound connections between personal experiences and artistic expression.

Join sociologist Karen Guzzo and NPR reporter Lisa Hagen as they delve into the provocative world of pronatalism. They discuss the motives behind the push for higher birth rates, exploring the ideological diversity and controversial figures within the movement. Highlights include a critique of pronatalist policies and their impact on marginalized groups, as well as the interplay between motherhood, societal challenges, and reproductive rights. The podcast reveals how this once-fringe movement is reshaping discussions about family and future generations.

Journalist David Graham, an Atlantic staff writer and author of 'The Project,' discusses the significant impact of Project 2025, a conservative initiative designed to reshape U.S. governance. He reveals how this plan aims to push federal policy to the right, emphasizing traditional family structures and expanding presidential power. Graham also critiques the implications for marginalized communities and the health care system, while exploring the fractures within conservative ideology as it navigates modern challenges like climate and trade.

Daria Burke, author of 'Of My Own Making' and a marketing executive, shares her gripping journey from a turbulent childhood in 1980s Detroit, shaped by her mother's addiction. She reflects on the lasting impact of trauma and the challenge of navigating her identity amidst family struggles. Daria discusses how her grandmother provided stability, the emotional toll of loss, and the complexities of estrangement. Her insights into healing, resilience, and the science of neuroplasticity offer hope and inspiration for overcoming adversity.

Ryan Coogler, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker known for hits like Black Panther and Creed, shares insights about his latest film, Sinners, which intertwines horror with themes of race and faith in 1930s Mississippi. Noah Wyle, who starred in ER and is now the lead in The Pit, discusses the challenges of portraying life in a busy emergency room. Both guests illuminate how personal experiences shape their storytelling, offering a fascinating look at the creative process behind cinematic and medical narratives.

Merle Haggard, a legendary country music singer and songwriter, discusses his rugged past of hopping trains and doing time, recalling a harrowing trek through a snowstorm. He reflects on how his prison experience became a catalyst for his music career, exploring themes of redemption and identity. Haggard also shares anecdotes about acquiring an observation car that now serves on the Virginia Scenic Railway. The conversation reveals the profound connection between his life experiences and his soulful songwriting.

Paul Tough, a journalist and contributing writer for the New York Times Magazine, dives deep into the complexities of ADHD treatment. He challenges the traditional view of ADHD as merely a medical disorder, highlighting studies that question the long-term efficacy of medications like Ritalin. Tough discusses the spectrum of ADHD experiences, emphasizing personalized treatment approaches that consider both genetic and environmental factors. This conversation also touches on the intricate relationship between ADHD and emotional dysregulation, calling for a more nuanced understanding of the disorder.

Ryan Coogler, the visionary director behind 'Black Panther' and 'Creed,' shares insights into his new film 'Sinners,' a genre-bending thriller set in 1930s Mississippi. He discusses the deep connections between blues music and personal storytelling, drawing from the influence of his late uncle. Coogler also reflects on the philosophical struggle of owning his work, balancing commercial success with artistic integrity, and the artistic choices behind using vampires as metaphors for identity and societal struggles.

Stephen Levitsky, a Harvard professor of government, dives into the alarming decline of democracy in the U.S., highlighting how the Trump administration has facilitated this shift towards 'competitive authoritarianism.' He discusses how elected leaders can maintain a facade of democracy while eroding its core principles. Levitsky also critiques the politicization of government agencies and the implications for institutions like Harvard. He raises concerns about the chilling effects on dissent and the future trajectory of American democracy.

Noah Wyle, known for his iconic role as Dr. John Carter on ER, now serves as the executive producer, writer, and star of The Pit, a new series exploring the intensity of emergency medicine. In conversation with Dave Davies, he reveals his initial reluctance to return to medical dramas, catalyzed by the pandemic's impact. Wyle discusses the authentic portrayal of healthcare's emotional struggles, deeply rooted family dynamics, and how personal traumas resonate in the narrative. He even shares insights from his mother's experiences as a nurse.