Wild Card with Rachel Martin

Orville Peck is full of apparent contradictions. As a kid in South Africa, he went from dancing ballet to playing drums in a punk band. He loves musical theater but made a name for himself as a country singer. He sings about vulnerability but covers his face with a mask. Peck talks to Rachel about embracing those contradictions and about starring in "Cabaret" on Broadway. 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

Ramy Youssef's creative pursuits range from stand-up to his semi-biographical Hulu show, "Ramy," to his new animated series, "#1 Happy Family USA." In all of his efforts, he says he's just trying to make work that feels exciting to him. Ramy is one of the costars of the new HBO film, "Mountainhead." He talks to Rachel about his gripe with Santa Claus and reckoning with his mortality.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

When Mike Birbiglia tells a story, he tries to make it relatable to everyone in the audience – whether it's tapping into his childhood anxiety, relating his clumsy attempts at self improvement or sharing his earnest fears about his aging parents. Mike's new Netflix special is The Good Life. He shares with Rachel how he learns valuable lessons from writing jokes, and explains how found some peace.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

Join Jonathan Groff, Broadway sensation and Tony nominee, as he shares his journey of self-discovery through music and theater. He candidly discusses losing faith at a Youth for Christ camp, where he confronted his sexuality and found refuge in performance art. Groff reflects on the importance of community support, the transforming nature of fame, and the deep connections forged through storytelling. With humor and heartfelt insights, he explores the balance between personal authenticity and professional success.

In this conversation, Wanda Sykes, a trailblazing comedian and actress, shares stories of her incredible journey, from leaving a stable career to embrace comedy, to overcoming breast cancer. She reflects on the courage it took to come out and navigate life's challenges, emphasizing how these experiences have enriched her stand-up. Sykes discusses the importance of authenticity in her performances and the nostalgic lessons learned from childhood memories, all while preparing for her new tour, 'Please and Thank You.' Expect humor and insightful anecdotes!

When Weird Al's debut single, "My Bologna," came out, there wasn't really a model for how a parody artist could have any longevity in their career. Yet Al's figured out how to stay popular for over four decades. Ahead of his summer "Bigger and Weirder" tour, he talks with Rachel about staying weird as he ages, parenthood, and his devoted (some might say obsessive) fans. 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

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.'