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
10 snips
May 29, 2025 • 45min
Sarah Silverman Finds The Funny In Grief
In this conversation, Sarah Silverman, a renowned comic writer and actor, opens up about her experiences with loss and how it shaped her comedy in her special, PostMortem. She shares heartfelt stories about her family's unique bond, emphasizing humor in the face of grief. Silverman reflects on navigating the emotional complexities of caregiving and the impact of her father’s struggles on her life and career. With wit and authenticity, she explores the intersection of personal experiences and comedy, highlighting love and resilience in challenging times.
97 snips
May 28, 2025 • 45min
The Talented Mr. Vance
George Packer, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'The Unwinding', discusses the intriguing political evolution of JD Vance, declaring him the most compelling figure within the Trump administration. Packer delves into Vance's complex background, tracing his journey from Appalachian poverty to political prominence. The conversation highlights Vance's shifting narratives on class and identity amid the political upheaval following Trump's election, revealing how personal beliefs shape broader political trends.
19 snips
May 27, 2025 • 47min
Author James Patterson On The Art Of Collaboration
James Patterson, a global bestselling author with over 400 million copies sold, shares his late-night inspiration and discusses his latest work, The #1 Dad Book. He opens up about the joy of collaborating with fellow writers. Accordionist Will Holshouser, known for his genre-blending music, highlights his unique project, The Lone Wild Bird, and the cultural significance of the accordion. Their conversation weaves through literary creativity and the expressive power of music, making for a captivating blend of storytelling and sound.
25 snips
May 26, 2025 • 46min
Questlove On Sly Stone And The Burden Of Black Genius
In this engaging discussion, Questlove, the co-founder of The Roots and creator of the documentary 'Sly Lives!', dives deep into the incredible legacy of Sly Stone. He highlights how Sly redefined pop and R&B, influencing generations of artists. Questlove discusses the societal challenges Black artists face, emphasizing the importance of mental health and vulnerability in creativity. Through Sly's music, particularly 'Everyday People' and 'Stand,' he explores themes of inclusivity and empowerment, revealing the burden of genius in the music industry.
33 snips
May 24, 2025 • 48min
Best Of: Education & A.I. / Having A Child In The Digital Age
In this insightful conversation, tech reporter Kashmir Hill delves into the transformative role of AI in education, discussing its benefits and ethical dilemmas, particularly around academic integrity. Amanda Hess, a cultural critic and author, shares her experiences navigating motherhood in a tech-saturated world, exploring how digital tools shape parenting and emotional challenges during pregnancy. Both guests offer a thought-provoking examination of how technology intertwines with daily life and personal experiences in today's digital landscape.
May 23, 2025 • 47min
Remembering Broadway Composer Charles Strouse
Charles Strouse, the legendary composer behind iconic musicals like Bye Bye Birdie and Annie, reminisces about his craft and the emotional depth of his work. Jay-Z joins the conversation, discussing how he sampled Strouse's 'Hard Knock Life,' highlighting the powerful themes of struggle and resilience present in both Broadway and hip-hop. Strouse reflects on the gritty essence he aimed for in his songs, while both guests celebrate the enduring legacy of musical storytelling that connects generations.
17 snips
May 22, 2025 • 45min
Walton Goggins Was Raised By A Village
Walton Goggins, an accomplished actor known for his roles in The White Lotus and Justified, shares invaluable insights from his journey. Growing up poor in the Deep South significantly shaped his acting approach. He discusses the liberating impact of travel on his storytelling and the role of community in his childhood. Goggins reflects on the delicate balance of ambition and authenticity in Hollywood, emphasizing resilience in navigating a challenging career. He also explores complex father-son dynamics, adding depth to his character development.
146 snips
May 21, 2025 • 44min
Professors Are Using A.I., Too. Now What?
Kashmir Hill, a tech reporter at The New York Times specializing in privacy and technology's unintended consequences, discusses the growing use of A.I. in education. She reveals how professors are turning to A.I. tools for teaching and grading, while students grapple with its impact on academic integrity. Hill shares her personal experiment of letting A.I. run her life for a week, raising ethical questions about dependency on technology. The conversation explores emotional attachments to chatbots and the implications of A.I.'s role in daily decision-making.
50 snips
May 20, 2025 • 44min
Inside The "Cover-Up" Of President Biden's Decline
Jake Tapper, CNN's Chief Washington correspondent and co-author of the book Original Sin, dives into President Biden's troubling trajectory. He discusses the implications of Biden’s recent health issues and cognitive decline on his re-election bid. Tapper reveals insights about the White House's efforts to manage public perception and addresses the significant critique stemming from George Clooney’s op-ed urging Biden to step back. The conversation also touches on the internal Democratic debates regarding Biden’s viability as a candidate, revealing deep party concerns.
May 19, 2025 • 46min
Cole Escola's 'Stupid' Dream Came True With 'Oh, Mary!'
Cole Escola, a comic writer and actor renowned for his Broadway show 'Oh, Mary!', shares his journey of empowering Mary Todd Lincoln with humor and heart. He reflects on growing up in rural Oregon and the surprising success of his play. Escola dives into the evolution of queer comedy, navigating societal expectations, and the unique emotional landscape of Broadway dreams. Personal anecdotes about identity and creativity add depth to his story, showcasing the intricate dance of validation and self-expression in the arts.
