This American Life

Meeky Meek, a producer who documented daily raids and archiving efforts. Anianci Diaz-Cortez, a reporter who tracked repeated Home Depot parking-lot raids and day laborer responses. Hannah Jaffe-Walt, a reporter who compiled 911 calls capturing immigration enforcement and public panic. They discuss 911 recordings, recurring parking-lot sweeps, community defenses, and a grassroots project archiving raids.

Josh Johnson, a comedian, dives into the thorny topic of spanking, reflecting on his own childhood and its implications. Etgar Keret, a celebrated writer, shares a whimsical yet thought-provoking tale about a bus driver who won't open the doors for late passengers, exploring themes of fairness and human connection. John Mulaney, a renowned actor and comedian, brings his storytelling flair, leaving listeners chuckling while tackling the intricacies of everyday life with humor and heart.

Eamon Ogana, a reporter who traveled with the Syrian comedy troupe Styria, joins stand-up comedian Sharief Homsi and co-founder Maliki Mardonali. They explore the thrill and risk of performing comedy in post-Assad Syria, discussing the challenges of testing boundaries in conservative cities like Hama. Sharief shares his journey from a past in prison to comedy. The troupe faces cancellations, government pressure, and public outcry as they strive for artistic freedom, finding laughter amid a fragile new reality.

In this special mini-episode -- an extra episode this week! -- we hear from someone in Venezuela with a very specific take on last week's U.S. attack.

Aviva DeKornfeld, a producer and storyteller, shares Jake Cornell's surprising discovery about his grandmother's passion for romance novels, reshaping their connection. Ben Austen, a reporter, recounts his emotional reconnection with a childhood classmate, Eddie, which uncovers painful memories and misunderstandings. Their stories reveal how unexpected truths can dramatically alter perceptions of family and past relationships, showcasing the complexities of memory and personal growth.

David Sedaris, a humorist celebrated for his witty autobiographical tales, shares his quirky experiences as an elf at Macy's in the hilarious 'Santaland Diaries'. He recounts the absurdities of holiday shopping, rude customers, and the surreal expectations of Christmas magic. Meanwhile, David Rakoff transforms into a window-display Sigmund Freud, humorously discussing the commercialization of Christmas and the surprising intimacy of his 'therapy' sessions. Both guests shed light on the chaotic yet comedic realities of holiday retail.

Zoe Chase and Suzanne Gabber are on the ground in Portland, exploring the surreal intersection of protest, streaming, and media dynamics. They detail how a single block became a chaotic spectacle with right-wing influencers searching for Antifa. Insights into streamers' motivations reveal a blend of profit and passion, showcasing the tension between authenticity and performance. They challenge the narrative of Antifa leadership and probe the relationship between live streaming and escalating confrontations, ultimately debunking the myth of a war zone in Portland.

Jad Abumrad, co-creator of Radiolab, delves into the life of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a pivotal figure in Nigeria's anti-colonial movement. He explores her transformation from a teacher to a leader of the Abeokuta Women's Union, highlighting how her literacy initiatives evolved into political activism. The podcast details the powerful protests led by market women, using symbolic acts like head tie removals to challenge male authority. Through Fela Kuti’s tribute to his mother, Abumrad uncovers her lasting yet often overlooked legacy.

Elijah Sullivan, a filmmaker known for his intriguing documentaries, dives into the enigmatic Mount Shasta hole alongside Brett, a crew member who shares firsthand experiences of the mysterious dig. They discuss bizarre theories, deepening tensions, and a curious organizer with a 'magic' credit card. Meanwhile, Michelle Navarro sheds light on the chilling effects of Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago, recounting community anxiety, protective tactics, and significant economic fallout caused by federal raids. Together, these stories blend mystery, fear, and resilience.

Heather Gay, a former Mormon and reality TV star, shares her experience of hiding her rebellious lifestyle from her daughters as they reveal surprising insights about their family dynamics. Valerie Kipnis narrates the Rivera family's harrowing immigration struggles, focusing on Fidel's decision to self-deport after years of undocumented status. The daughters, Mackenzie and Bella, candidly express their fears and emotions, showcasing how their perspectives on family decisions differ. The complex interplay of love, fear, and sacrifice unfolds behind closed doors.