This American Life

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.

Lilly Sullivan, a producer on the show, shares a humorous family tale about her parents' first meeting, revealing surprising twists that reshape her understanding of family narratives. Musician Mike Comite reflects on a critical moment at the Bonnaroo festival, where a unique connection with Weezer's frontman changed the course of his career, highlighting the impact of vulnerability in artistic growth. Both guests explore how seemingly small events can dramatically alter lives and perspectives.

Elna Baker, a producer, chats with Todd Sklar, a writer who formed a surprising bond with his pet rats during the pandemic, exploring how these fluffy friends complicated his dating life. Ike Sriskandarajah dives into the unintended consequences of New York City’s switch to plastic garbage bags, which fueled a rat population explosion. The episode hilariously contrasts the love for rats with urban challenges, showcasing a mix of personal anecdotes and insightful investigations into human-rat relationships.

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.

Shalom Auslander, a writer known for his witty memoirs, shares a comically tense vacation tale about suspecting his chatty neighbor, Marvin, of being an imposter. As Shalom’s assumptions spiral, he grapples with his own biases and the impact on his family dynamics. Richard Price, acclaimed novelist and screenwriter, takes listeners on a gripping ride with his dramatized account of a police misunderstanding, illustrating the dangers of snap judgments. Together, they explore how our perceptions can lead to unexpected—and often humorous—outcomes.