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
63 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 44min
Robert Reich: The Baby Boomers Fell Short
Robert Reich, former Labor Secretary and author of 'Coming Up Short,' reflects on the Baby Boom generation's failures in fostering a just society. He candidly discusses modern inequality, the troubling effects of political influence on economic data, and regrets over past trade policies. Reich emphasizes humility in political dialogue and the value of friendships across party lines. He highlights the need for empathy in addressing social equity and critiques the state of literary fiction while recommending entertaining genre novels with depth.
31 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 45min
The Dramatic Overhaul Of The Justice Dept.
Ruth Marcus, a seasoned writer for The New Yorker and a former Washington Post columnist, discusses the tumultuous changes at the Department of Justice under Pam Bondi. She highlights Bondi's aggressive shift in policies and her controversial handling of high-profile cases like Jeffrey Epstein's. The conversation dives into the politicization of the DOJ, the implications of personnel changes, and Bondi's rise through Florida politics. Marcus offers a sharp critique of how these dynamics have affected editorial integrity in journalism.
14 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 45min
Spike Lee On Dynamic Duos & Reimagining Kurosawa
Spike Lee, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind classics like 'Do the Right Thing', dives into his latest film 'Highest 2 Lowest', featuring Denzel Washington in a moral quandary over the wrong child. He reflects on his enduring partnership with Denzel, a fresh take on Kurosawa’s work infused with hip-hop culture, and the ever-relevant themes of personal sacrifice. Lee also explores the role cinema plays in cultural narratives, touching on the legacy of iconic films and the need for artistic storytelling in today’s turbulent times.
29 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 46min
Bowen Yang's 'Wicked' White Lie
Bowen Yang, Emmy-nominated cast member of Saturday Night Live and co-host of Las Culturistas, chats about his exciting pop culture favorites from the aughts. He shares anecdotes from his SNL audition and reflects on his recent trip to China. Bowen dives into his journey navigating cultural adaptation and the effects of his family's immigration history. He humorously discusses the struggles of sharing personal interests with parents and reveals his complex feelings towards the musical 'Wicked.' The conversation blends humor with deep reflections on identity.
7 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 45min
Thomas Mallon
Thomas Mallon, a celebrated writer known for his historical novels, reflects on the haunting early years of the AIDS epidemic in Manhattan, sharing poignant excerpts from his journals. He discusses his latest novel, 'Up with the Sun,' inspired by the life and tragic murder of gay actor Dick Coleman. Mallon also contemplates the advancements in health since the '90s, and offers insights into aging and the comfort of nostalgia, weaving in the legacy of jazz singer Sheila Jordan and the vibrant cultural echoes of a past era.
57 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 49min
Best Of: AI's Writing Critique / The Rise And Fall Of Condé Nast
Tech journalist and novelist Vauhini Vara discusses her fascinating experience critiquing ChatGPT's writing advice while exploring themes of technology and personal identity from her book 'Searches.' Michael Grynbaum shares insights into the glamorous yet tumultuous world of Condé Nast, delving into its historical influence over media and culture, particularly under the helm of figures like Anna Wintour. They explore how AI challenges authentic communication, and how Condé Nast's legacy has been transformed by the rise of social media.
53 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 44min
Pedro Pascal Got Fired A Lot
Pedro Pascal, a Chilean-born actor celebrated for his roles in The Last of Us and The Mandalorian, shares his journey from restaurant jobs to Emmy nominations. He talks about getting fired often and the challenges of his early acting career in New York. Pascal reflects on his family's exile from Chile, highlighting how personal experiences shape his performances. The conversation also dives into the emotional depth of his characters, the importance of supportive mentors, and the influence of music and family on his growth as an artist.
Aug 13, 2025 • 46min
Musician Charley Crockett's Road From Busking To The Grammys
Charley Crockett, a country/roots musician and Grammy nominee, shares his inspiring journey from busking on the streets to playing the Hollywood Bowl. He details the storytelling power of outlaw ballads and reveals his influences, including a fresh take on a 1930s Yiddish song. The conversation touches on the emotional depth in his music, reflecting on love and resilience, alongside personal anecdotes about overcoming heart challenges. Crockett also discusses the creative process behind his latest album, Dollar a Day, blending genres and experiences into a unique sound.
16 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 44min
Jeff Hiller's Big Break Came In His 40s
Jeff Hiller, an Emmy-nominated actor known for his role in HBO's *Somebody Somewhere*, shares his transformative journey in Hollywood. He recounts years of small roles before hitting big in his 40s, emphasizing the importance of community and friendship in the industry. Hiller discusses overcoming bullying and self-identity struggles during his school years, and his shift from a restrictive religious upbringing to embracing improv comedy. He also opens up about navigating health challenges while pursuing his passion, all while finding joy in self-acceptance.
37 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 47min
Daniel Dae Kim Fakes His Own Death In 'Butterfly'
Daniel Dae Kim, acclaimed actor known for his role in 'Lost' and Tony-nominated for 'Yellow Face,' discusses his latest project, the spy series 'Butterfly.' He shares insights on the balance between career and family life, and the importance of representation in entertainment. Kim dives into the complexities of Asian American identity and reflects on the challenges faced due to racial profiling and anti-Asian violence. He also explores the evolution of roles for Asian actors, emphasizing the need for nuanced storytelling.
