The Sam Sanders Show

In this lively discussion, Elias Leight, a music business reporter for The Wall Street Journal, examines the curious trend of young people shying away from dancing due to social media fears. He highlights how this phenomenon affects live performances and artists' interactions with audiences. The conversation covers the clash between TikTok choreography and spontaneous dancing, the impact of societal pressures on personal expression, and the potential of phone-free shows to revive the dance floor vibe. Practical tips for reinvigorating the groove wrap up their engaging chat.

Dan Harris, a former ABC News anchor and mindfulness advocate, dives into the power of pop culture as a source of healing and connection. He reflects on how 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' teaches impermanence and the joy of letting go. Music like Fleetwood Mac's albums evokes deep family memories, while Aretha Franklin’s 'Amazing Grace' reconnects listeners to their roots. Dan also shares practical tips for sticking to New Year’s resolutions, emphasizing small goals and self-compassion for meaningful change.

Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from One Song.  Is Dreams what it sounds like when personal chaos becomes collective brilliance? Recorded live at On Air Fest at KCRW, Sam joins hosts Diallo and LUXXURY to break down this Fleetwood Mac classic. Together, they dive into the Rumours-era drama and unravel why the magic of Dreams feels both intensely personal and universally resonant. If you like this episode, be sure to check out One Song on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

There was a time when popular music was inseparable from civil rights and civil unrest. But today, very few popular songs reflect the grievances seen in the streets.  Fela Kuti is an artist who wasn’t afraid to make protest music. Known as the father of Afrobeat, his music became the soundtrack for social change in his native Nigeria.  He’s the focus of the new podcast Fela Kuti: Fear No Man created by Jad Abumrad. He tells Sam about the lasting impact of Kuti’s work, his complicated history, and asks… why are musicians today so afraid to get political?  Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from the How To! Podcast.  Sam is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He’s also “quite possibly the world’s most hesitant homeowner.” Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn’t have a clue where to start. Second, he’s not very handy. And third, he’s intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, host Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma’am) to guide Sam in conquering his fears. Mercury’s latest book is Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair.  Ready for part 2? This conversation continues with How To Take Charge of Home Repair. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from Life in Seven Songs.  Sam grew up strictly Pentecostal in Texas. Non-religious music was forbidden in his house – so Sam got resourceful, smuggling CDs into the house in his underwear and watching MTV in secret. At 18 years old, just as he was getting ready to leave for Stanford, Sam’s life was turned upside down. Both of his parents suffered major health crises in the span of a few months, resulting in Sam becoming their caregiver. Years later, Sam would face another devastating double-whammy with the death of his mother followed a month later by a crushing breakup. Sam opens up about the music that carried him through – from Janet Jackson videos to soaring gospel tunes to revenge-fueled breakup anthems – and why today, he’s savoring the freedom he’s been chasing his whole life. If you like this episode, be sure to check out Life in Seven Songs wherever you get your podcasts.   Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

Reanna Cruz, a music journalist and producer at Switched on Pop, dives deep into the state of pop music in 2025. She argues that much of the mainstream sound felt stale, often recycling the 2000s vibe. They discuss standout artists like Bad Bunny and the impact of AI on production, making songs less innovative. Reanna highlights emerging talent like PinkPantheress for transforming retro influences into fresh sounds. Amidst industry shifts and stagnant charts, she urges listeners to explore beyond the mainstream to find exciting new music.

In this engaging conversation, Grammy-winning jazz singer Samara Joy, celebrated for her album Portrait, shares her journey from gospel roots to jazz stardom. She reflects on discovering jazz in high school, the influence of her family's 'Godmobile,' and how her faith molded her artistry. Samara discusses the pressures of early Grammy success and passionately expresses her concerns about AI in music. With insights on creative independence and contemporary inspirations, she emphasizes that her music will remain deeply human.

Join Sam as he chats with Avery Trufelman, a podcast host and journalist renowned for exploring fashion and material culture. They dive into the chaotic world of holiday gift guides, discussing the overwhelming pressure of consumerism and the quest for meaningful gifts. Avery shares insights on the significance of local recommendations and the intersection of military influence in outdoor apparel. Their conversation also touches on the transformative impact of clear affiliate practices and the importance of building community through gift-giving.

Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks, and Franklin Leonard, CEO of The Black List, dive into the biggest pop culture highs and lows of 2025. They discuss the controversy surrounding Diddy and Taylor Swift's latest works, and celebrate Olivia Dean's low-key charm and Cynthia Erivo's rising star. Franklin critiques AI's impact on creativity, while Traci champions Ms. Rachel as this year's unsung hero. Together, they create a pop culture Mount Rushmore, featuring Bad Bunny and the K-Pop phenomenon, among others.