Wild Card with Rachel Martin

Ocean Vuong, a MacArthur Genius Award-winning author and professor at NYU, shares profound insights into the intertwined relationship between beauty and pain. He reflects on his transformative journey, exploring identity, familial connections, and the impact of grief. Vuong discusses the healing power of art and the importance of community in navigating loss. He candidly expresses his hope for a day when he might stop writing, revealing the complexities of creativity as a condition rather than just a skill.

Harrison Ford, the legendary actor known for his iconic roles in Star Wars and Indiana Jones, dives into his unexpected first Emmy nomination at 83. He shares candid thoughts on life, dismissing fears of death while discussing how to embrace creativity, even in discussions about toilet seats! The conversation dances between humor and the deeper complexities of love, marriage, and the fleeting nature of existence, showcasing his journey through both personal and professional milestones.

Guests share heartfelt journeys through childhood memories, emphasizing family bonds and the warmth of nostalgia. Transformative art experiences evoke deep emotions, while tales of connection reveal how memories shape identities. Engaging anecdotes transport listeners to significant moments like heartfelt reflections at Dodger Stadium and a blissful escape in Greece. Whimsical discussions about time travel spark creativity, and tales from high school remind us of the enduring impact of personal milestones and self-acceptance.

LeVar Burton, iconic actor known for his roles in Roots, Star Trek, and Reading Rainbow, shares his journey of self-discovery. He discusses redefining success and the importance of embracing chaos in his life and career. LeVar reflects on the transformative power of literature and his role as a children's advocate. He highlights resilience in the face of challenges and the enduring connections with loved ones. With humor and heartfelt anecdotes, he explores his evolving spirituality, making this conversation both profound and entertaining.

Father James Martin, a prominent Jesuit priest and author known for his engaging presence on The Late Show, opens up about his journey from rebellious youth to spiritual leader. He shares insights on letting go of the need for approval and discusses the challenges of advocating for LGBTQ Catholics within the church. The conversation also meanders through his new podcast’s themes, blending humor and spirituality, and emphasizes the importance of genuine connections with God. Expect heartfelt reflections and a touch of nostalgia!

Aparna Nancherla, a stand-up comedian known for her insightful and humorous takes on anxiety and depression, shares her journey with Rachel. She humorously recounts a childhood potluck story that reveals cultural expectations and personal authenticity. The conversation dives deep into her experiences portrayed in the documentary 'Anxiety Club,' exploring the complex relationship between anxiety and comedy. Aparna also reflects on the struggle of success perception, the emotional landscape of performance, and the transformative power of creativity.

Congress's recent decision to cut funding for public media raises alarms about the future of local journalism. The discussion highlights the critical role that public media plays in connecting communities and delivering essential news. Concerned voices urge listeners to take action and support this vital service, emphasizing the need for accessible information in today's world. The conversation sheds light on the potential consequences of losing public media, prompting a call to safeguard its future.

Marc Maron, an introspective comedian and podcast host known for his deep conversations, shares his thoughts on vulnerability and the end of his popular podcast, 'WTF.' He discusses his new stand-up special, 'Panicked,' and reflects on the emotional journey from podcasting to live performances. Maron candidly navigates the quest for validation in both personal and professional realms, exploring the impact of nostalgia and community in his life. With humor, he examines the bittersweet memories tied to his original podcasting space.

Celine Song, a talented film director known for 'Past Lives' and 'Materialists,' shares her creative journey and insights about love. She emphasizes the power of slowing down, savoring silence, and viewing meals as sacred moments. The conversation touches on embracing laziness for creativity, navigating the emotional complexities of intimacy, and expressing love through words. Celine also reflects on transformative experiences in filmmaking and the unexpected life lessons learned from cockroaches, injecting humor and wisdom into her artistic narrative.

Jenny Han feels like the same person as her teenage self – which might explain why her books and their adaptations connect so strongly with teen audiences. Her "To All The Boys" and "The Summer I Turned Pretty" franchises are streaming juggernauts – among teens and adults. Jenny spoke with Rachel about the importance of writing about love and why embarrassment feels so close to the surface. 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