This is Love

When Miguel Esteban was 14 years old, he got an idea to make his own science fiction magazine. He wanted Octavia Butler to write a piece for it. So he picked up the phone to ask her.Special thanks to Terry Gross and Fresh Air, which is produced at NPR member station WHYY and distributed by NPR. Quotes reprinted with permission of the Octavia E. Butler Estate.Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2BmMZr5Want to listen to This is Love ad-free? Sign up for Criminal Plus – you’ll get This is Love, Criminal, and Phoebe Reads a Mystery ad-free. Plus, behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal and other exclusive benefits. Learn more and sign up here.We also make Criminal and Phoebe Reads a Mystery.Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop.Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Patrick Makuakāne, an influential hula dancer and choreographer, shares his vibrant journey from traditional hula in Hawaii to establishing a school in San Francisco. He discusses the cultural significance of hula as a form of expression and identity, touching on its historical evolution and modern adaptations. Makuakāne highlights the balance between tradition and innovation, and reflects on the political themes woven into hula performance, particularly during the AIDS crisis. His passion for storytelling and community shines throughout this engaging conversation.

BokHee, a beloved background character from 'Grey's Anatomy,' shares her unique journey from a strict upbringing in Seoul to working in the medical field in California. She discusses the significance of side characters like Nurse BokHee and their cultural impact. With humor, she reflects on her rise to fame as 'Queen Bogey' and delightful anecdotes from the set, highlighting the surprising connections between her life as a nurse and her role on TV. Her experiences bridge the worlds of healthcare and entertainment, leaving listeners with a profound appreciation for unseen heroes.

Gabrielle Gatto, a dedicated worker at the historic Greenwood Cemetery in Brooklyn, shares her insights on death and grief. She discusses the emotional challenges of managing cremation orders, especially during the pandemic. Gabrielle explores the vital role of rituals in mourning and reflects on the personal connections we have with our departed loved ones. She emphasizes the importance of empathy in her work, illustrating how cemeteries can foster connections rather than just symbolize loss. Her compelling stories remind us of the love that persists even in grief.

Charlie Harding, a songwriter and music journalist, and Nate Sloan, a musicologist, dive deep into the revolutionary legacy of Wendy Carlos and her groundbreaking album 'Switched-On Bach.' They discuss the synthesizer's remarkable journey from its 1890s invention to redefining musical genres. The pair explores the fusion of classical music and electronic sound, highlighting how Carlos overcame obstacles to pave the way for future artists. Personal anecdotes reveal the artistry behind synthesizers, shedding light on key figures who shaped the electronic music landscape.

The night sky is getting brighter almost everywhere in the world. We visit a place that is trying to stay dark.Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2BmMZr5Want to listen to This is Love ad-free? Sign up for Criminal Plus – you’ll get This is Love, Criminal, and Phoebe Reads a Mystery ad-free. Plus, behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal and other exclusive benefits. Learn more and sign up here.We also make Criminal and Phoebe Reads a Mystery.Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop.Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Folk singer Peggy Seeger, known for her poignant love songs, shares her remarkable journey of love across continents with her partner Irene Pyper-Scott. She reflects on her deep bond with Ewan MacColl, whose famous song was inspired by her, and explores the emotional resonance of her work. Peggy discusses songwriting as a blend of personal experiences and political themes, revealing how love shapes creativity. She navigates the complexities of relationships, advocacy for bodily autonomy, and the legacy of love in music.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House is the oldest bar in Philadelphia, and it also claims to be the most romantic place in the city. The Philadelphia Inquirer says: “McGillin’s has matchmaking magic.”Special thanks to Andrew Stelzer. Say hello on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2BmMZr5Want to listen to This is Love ad-free? Sign up for Criminal Plus – you’ll get This is Love, Criminal, and Phoebe Reads a Mystery ad-free. Plus, behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal and other exclusive benefits. Learn more and sign up here.We also make Criminal and Phoebe Reads a Mystery.Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop.Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ray Billingsley, creator of the comic strip Curtis, discusses his journey in representing Black characters authentically in art. He shares insights on the challenges he faced, the development of Curtis comic characters, and addressing social issues like police brutality and the pandemic in his storyline.

Comic Maria Bamford shares insights on relationships, mental health struggles, and her journey through illness. From online connections to coping with loss through comedy, the podcast delves into personal stories and reflections on navigating life's challenges with humor and resilience.