Wild Card with Rachel Martin
NPR
Life’s too short for small talk. Rachel gets right to the questions that matter most. Once a week, famous guests pull questions from a deck of cards and open up about the kind of stuff we all think about but rarely say out loud. Actors, authors, and thinkers are prompted to talk about everything from their insecurities and dreams to grief and God. Named one of the 10 best podcasts of 2024 by The New York Times, Wild Card stands out among celebrity interview podcasts. When modern life feels chaotic or overwhelming, listen to Wild Card for a joyful, grounding reminder of our shared humanity. Want to listen to Wild Card sponsor-free? Support NPR by subscribing to Wild Card+. Learn more at plus.npr.org/wildcard.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 27, 2025 • 29min
Bowen Yang thinks being present is overrated (encore)
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
Feb 20, 2025 • 34min
Natalie Morales is trying to shake the "should"
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
Feb 13, 2025 • 30min
Ronny Chieng is still chasing the perfect joke
Comedian Ronny Chieng's original path wasn't to become a correspondent on "The Daily Show." Plan A was to be a lawyer in Australia. But when he couldn't get a job in law, he turned to comedy as a backup. He talks to Rachel about his path to success and how he's more like his parents than he realized. His new stand-up special is "Ronny Chieng: Love to Hate It." 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
Feb 6, 2025 • 32min
Ke Huy Quan is still proving he's good enough
Ke Huy Quan was born in Vietnam, but his family fled the country and eventually settled in the U.S. as refugees. Not long after arriving, Quan was cast in "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom" and "The Goonies." He then struggled for years until "Everything Everywhere All at Once" came along. Quan talks to Rachel about his new action film, "Love Hurts," self doubt and love at first sight. 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
Jan 30, 2025 • 40min
Jesse Eisenberg sprinkles trouble throughout his day
Jesse Eisenberg, the talented actor and writer known for his iconic roles in 'The Squid and the Whale' and 'Zombieland,' dives deep into his experiences with anxiety and personal growth. He discusses the emotional complexities of his characters and how they mirror his own life. The conversation touches on his unique use of ChatGPT, aspirations in pro basketball, and the virtues of boredom. Eisenberg reflects on navigating fear of failure in the arts and the significance of emotional vulnerability, offering insights that resonate well beyond Hollywood.
Jan 23, 2025 • 34min
Michael Shannon thinks you look ridiculous when you shout
Michael Shannon, an acclaimed actor known for roles in 'The Shape of Water' and 'Boardwalk Empire,' shares his journey from lonely childhood to creative fulfillment. He reflects on how growing up split between Kentucky and Illinois shaped his artistic voice. Shannon reveals the joy he found in directing 'Eric LaRue' and discusses the darker themes of his work. He also delves into the importance of self-love and the lasting impacts of music, particularly R.E.M., on his life. Nostalgia plays a key role, as he reminisces about cherished memories.
Jan 16, 2025 • 34min
Remembering David Lynch — Producer's Cut
David Lynch, the iconic filmmaker behind masterpieces like 'Mulholland Drive' and 'Twin Peaks,' is remembered fondly in this heartfelt discussion. He shares insights into his unique creative process and reflects on his journey through transcendental meditation, emphasizing its calming influence on life's challenges. The conversation dives into personal stories of rebellion and emotional growth, touching on premonitions and the uncanny nature of déjà vu. Lynch also explores the interconnectedness of consciousness, leaving listeners with a sense of awe and inspiration.
Jan 16, 2025 • 34min
The light and dark of Ted Danson (encore)
Ted Danson, an award-winning actor known for iconic roles in "Cheers" and "The Good Place," shares deep insights on aging and marriage. He discusses the complexities of balancing light and dark in his performances, echoing themes of morality and personal growth. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability in relationships and the joy of living in the moment. Ted also gives a glimpse into his new podcast, emphasizing connection and creativity as vital parts of life’s journey.
Jan 9, 2025 • 34min
Kate Bowler wants to tame her inner efficiency monster
Kate Bowler, a New York Times bestselling author and Duke University professor, shares her journey with Stage IV cancer and the insights it brings about life and faith. She discusses the dangers of toxic positivity, advocating for a balance between optimism and genuine feelings. The conversation touches on childhood nostalgia, the struggle with productivity pressures, and the significance of vulnerability. Bowler also reflects on the complexity of faith, love, and loss, infused with humor and deep personal anecdotes that resonate beyond life's challenges.
Jan 2, 2025 • 32min
Michelle Buteau thought she was too happy for stand-up
Michelle Buteau, a vibrant comedian, actress, and author known for her Netflix special and TV show 'Survival of the Thickest,' dives into the blend of joy and fear in her stand-up career. She shares her journey recording a groundbreaking Netflix special at Radio City Music Hall, reflecting on challenges and triumphs. The conversation gleefully touches on body positivity, embracing authenticity, and the importance of laughter in family life. Buteau also highlights the significance of creating joyful spaces and nurturing community through humor and tradition.
