Wild Card with Rachel Martin

Joy Harjo is one of the most revered poets in the United States, but she took a winding path to get there. The former U.S. poet laureate spoke with Rachel Martin about a pivotal decision in her childhood that put her on the creative path and how she views writing as a way to have second chances. This spring, Harjo is releasing a new version of her book, For A Girl Becoming. To listen sponsor-free and support the show, sign up for Wild Card+ at plus.npr.org/wildcardLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Brett Goldstein, known for his work in 'Ted Lasso' and 'Shrinking,' brings his grumpy charm to a delightful conversation. He shares unique family traditions and reflects on the beauty of sunsets. Goldstein equates God with the sun, promoting personal spirituality over organized religion. Delving into the heart of comedy, he discusses the thrill of live performance and vulnerability in storytelling. Expect laughter and deep insights as he navigates first impressions and evolving beliefs about existence and the afterlife.

Julianne Nicholson, known for her gripping performances in 'Mare of Easttown' and 'Janet Planet,' discusses her latest role as a heartbroken tech billionaire in 'Paradise.' She shares vivid childhood memories tied to scents, highlighting the emotional weight of nostalgia. The conversation dives into balancing a demanding career with family life, and the dark humor woven into an apocalyptic world. Julianne also reflects on sobriety, the beauty of embracing uncertainty, and the awe-inspiring connection to nature, revealing thought-provoking insights along the way.

Elizabeth Olsen, renowned for her captivating portrayal of Wanda Maximoff in the Marvel franchise, opens up about her unique career choices and fascination with the art of idleness. She reflects on her roles in indie films, revealing how personal experiences shape her artistic direction. The conversation dives into her thoughts on death, as well as the joy found in observing others. Elizabeth shares a poignant moment that underscores the beauty of human connections, tying it all to her latest project in the sci-fi thriller, 'The Assessment.'

John Green, celebrated author of "The Fault in Our Stars" and co-creator of Vlogbrothers, dives into profound conversations about hope, despair, and life’s big questions. He shares personal narratives that illustrate systemic issues like tuberculosis and highlights the importance of compassion in overcoming adversity. Green also reflects on mental health challenges, the significance of storytelling, and the complex relationship between spirituality and loss. His insights urge listeners to navigate life's uncertainties with a sense of present awareness and hope.

From a young age, Uzo Aduba's parents taught her that she could do anything. That confidence has led to some iconic performances – from Suzanne "Crazy Eyes" Warren in "Orange Is the New Black," to Shirley Chisholm in "Mrs. America," to her lead role in the newest Shonda Rhimes production, "The Residence." Uzo talks to Rachel about how motherhood shaped her and why she's made peace with mortality.To listen sponsor-free, access bonus episodes and support the show, sign up for Wild Card+ at plus.npr.org/wildcard Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Natasha Rothwell can't help but collaborate. She honed her improv skills at the Tokyo Comedy Store which led her to roles in memorable ensemble casts on "Insecure" and "How to Die Alone." Now, her character Belinda is back in the new season of "The White Lotus." Natasha talks with Rachel about bringing her own ideas to the show, the spiritual power of improv and what she's learned about love.To listen sponsor-free, access bonus episodes and support the show, sign up for Wild Card+ at plus.npr.org/wildcardLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

London today is very different from the one Zadie Smith grew up in and the one she wrote about in her debut novel "White Teeth." That is just one of the things Smith is grappling with 25 years after her best-selling book's debut. She talks to Rachel about the difficulty of revisiting the first few pages of "White Teeth," the wisdom only teenagers possess, and fighting despair with crème brûlée.To listen sponsor-free, access bonus episodes and support the show, sign up for Wild Card+ at plus.npr.org/wildcardLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week we're revisiting our episode with comedian Bowen Yang. The "SNL" cast member and "Las Culturistas" podcast co-host had a big year between being in the film adaptation of "Wicked" and the "Saturday Night Live" 50th anniversary special. He talked with Rachel last spring about living too much in the present, the risks of being real and why the afterlife will definitely have roller coasters.To listen sponsor-free, access bonus episodes and support the show, sign up for Wild Card+ at plus.npr.org/wildcardLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

When Natalie Morales was a kid growing up in Miami, she didn't just have a mango stand, she ran an entire mango monopoly. She's dreamed big ever since, finding success as an actor ("Parks and Recreation," "No Hard Feelings") and director ("Language Lessons," "Plan B"). She chats with Rachel about her new film, "My Dead Friend Zoe" and the important life lesson she learned from her dog, Taco. To listen sponsor-free, access bonus episodes and support the show, sign up for Wild Card+ at plus.npr.org/wildcardLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy