This American Life

Sam Busa, a South African organizer, established the AmeriConners group to help white South Africans navigate U.S. refugee policies after one of Trump's executive orders. She discusses her rollercoaster journey from shock to mobilizing a movement, addressing complex questions of identity and persecution. Sam explains how she built a supportive network, tackled logistical challenges, and became an official partner with the State Department. Through her efforts, she exemplifies the power of grassroots organization in navigating immigration while reflecting on the intricacies of modern refugee dynamics.

Aviva DeKornfeld, a skilled reporter, shares the intriguing story of Ted, who believes his theft of a piece of petrified wood cursed his life for nearly five decades. Jonathan Goldstein, host of Heavyweight, narrates the emotional struggle of a family dealing with a hoarding situation, focusing on Etta’s deep attachment to her extensive bottle collection. The stories explore how objects hold meaning and impact our lives, leading to redemption, separation, and ultimately connections to cherished memories.

Ira Glass shares an update on funding and the success of the Life Partners initiative, which now covers a quarter of the show's budget. He explains the need to boost listener support to ensure its future. Discover the behind-the-scenes challenges of story pitching and how many interviews fall flat. Ira highlights the meticulous revision and fact-checking process that sets this production apart. With declining public funding, he emphasizes the importance of listener contributions and the perks of becoming a Life Partner.

Pablo Torre, host of the investigative sports podcast *Pablo Torre Finds Out*, joins to discuss the unpredictability of life's plans. He shares a hilarious tale of a meticulous accountant whose family trip goes awry, emphasizing the clash of planning versus nature. Torre also dives into a wild prank by teens that unexpectedly launches a soccer player into fame, exploring the ramifications of media influence on sports and identity. His insights uncover the balance between youthful imagination and the serious reality of professional athletics.

Nancy Updike, a longtime producer and the first hire of Ira Glass, shares her insights on creating compelling radio stories. They discuss the power of vulnerability, reflecting on how a eulogy sparked personal revelations. Through anecdotes, they explore the depths of friendship, loss, and the challenges of storytelling. The conversation also touches on the evolution of radio identity, striking a balance between privacy and public life. As they reminisce about family and childhood, listeners are invited to engage with the intimate narratives that shape our identities.

Exciting changes are on the horizon as the podcast navigates a shifting landscape. The discussion highlights the impact of declining ad revenue on creativity and sustainability. A new premium subscription model is introduced, offering listeners a chance to directly support the program. It's an open invitation to engage more deeply and foster a stronger connection with the show!