Design Matters with Debbie Millman

In a heartfelt celebration, memoirists Elissa Altman, Thomas Page McBee, Ashley C. Ford, Josh Brolin, and Isaac Fitzgerald share their powerful stories. Altman recounts food-related family influences and her writing journey. McBee explores gender transition and healing through storytelling. Ford reflects on resilience shaped by family dynamics, while Brolin candidly discusses sobriety and navigating a chaotic upbringing. Fitzgerald unpacks the impact of relocation and parental struggles, offering insights into his complex childhood.

In a vibrant celebration, multimedia artist Deborah Kass shares her journey through art history and feminism. Portrait painter Amy Sherald discusses her bold color choices and the significance of her subjects, like Michelle Obama. Contemporary artist Marilyn Minter dives into the provocations of her work, addressing feminism and explicit imagery. Fiber artist Bisa Butler reveals her deep connection with fabric, especially in creating a quilted portrait of her grandmother. Each conversation highlights the role of art in challenging societal norms.

Stephen J. Dubner, an award-winning journalist and co-creator of Freakonomics, dives into fascinating discussions on curiosity and its decline with age. He shares insights from his journey in media, including a new talk show focused on human stories. Reflecting on two decades of Freakonomics, Dubner emphasizes the blend of economics and human behavior. He also examines the interplay between authenticity and fame, offering a candid look at the pressures of media recognition while exploring the hidden dynamics of the publishing world.

Suzanne Vega, the acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her evocative storytelling, dives into her illustrious career and the emotional journey behind her new album, "Flying with Angels." She reflects on the power of music to convey resilience in tough times and shares insights into the misunderstood lyrics of her iconic song "Luka." The conversation reveals her transformative journey through the music industry, discussing identity, personal struggles, and the liberating shift from acoustic to electronic sound, all while celebrating 20 years of impactful dialogue.

In this special celebration, acclaimed authors Lisa Taddeo, Malcolm Gladwell, Maria Konnikova, and Alain de Botton share their insights on love, trust, and the human experience. Taddeo delves into the emotional struggles featured in her work about women's desires. Gladwell discusses the intricacies of manipulation and accountability in human behavior. Konnikova highlights the balance of emotion and specificity in writing about sex, while de Botton explores the philosophy of everyday life. Together, they reveal the power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of relationships.

Join celebrated graphic novelists Seth, Lynda Barry, Chris Ware, Alison Bechdel, and Roz Chast as they reflect on two decades of graphic storytelling. Seth discusses nostalgia and memory in his work, while Lynda Barry explores the power of imagination and childhood themes. Adrian Tomina shares insights on identity and modern life's challenges. The conversation reveals the rich history and cultural impact of graphic novels, highlighting how these artists navigated personal expression, societal norms, and the evolving comic landscape.

Join design legends Massimo Vignelli, known for the iconic 1972 NYC subway map, and Michael Bierut, a celebrated partner at Pentagram, as they celebrate two decades of profound design discussions. They explore the ethical dimensions of design and its societal impact. The conversation dives into the evolution of aesthetics and the subtle dance between meaningful design and superficial trends. They also tackle navigating client expectations while advocating for authentic branding and the transformative power of thoughtful design choices.

In this engaging conversation, Betty Buckley, a Tony-winning Broadway legend and iconic voice celebrated for her roles in 'Cats' and 'Sunset Boulevard,' reflects on her nearly six-decade career in the arts. She shares her journey from Texas to the bright lights of Broadway, the emotional depth she brings to her characters, and the transformative nature of her roles. Buckley also discusses the importance of collaboration in her creative endeavors and the challenges of aging gracefully in the spotlight.

Tim Ferriss, a five-time New York Times bestselling author and renowned podcaster, shares insights from his creative process in developing the card game Coyote. He delves into the game's inspiration from folklore, exploring themes of adaptability and the trickster nature of the coyote. Tim reflects on his personal journey with gaming and its influence on teamwork and mental health. The discussion also highlights the delicate balance of competition and cooperation in gameplay, making it both engaging and inclusive.

David Cay Johnston, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, dives deep into the intricacies of political corruption and tax fraud. He recalls his early encounters with Donald Trump in the casino industry, highlighting the skepticism surrounding Trump's abilities. Johnston discusses the impact of Trump's media manipulation and critiques the failures of journalism. The conversation underscores the importance of informed voting and civic responsibility, urging listeners to engage with the complexities of democracy and the lasting effects of Trump's presidency.