Fresh Air

Writer John Vercher trained in mixed martial arts as a young man. His novel, After the Lights Go Out,centers on a veteran MMA fighter who is experiencing memory loss, severe mood swings and tinnitus. The book is also about the fighter's biracial identity.

TV critic David Bianculli reviews the new PBS American Masters documentary, Little Richard: King and Queen of Rock 'n' Roll.

Kwame Alexander's new book, Why Fathers Cry At Night, started as a book of love poems, but ended up being a book of essays and poems about falling in love, the end of his two marriages, raising two children and one of them leaving home and cutting ties. We'll talk about that, and about being a son of a Baptist minister. Alexander is best known for his children's books, including The Undefeated and the Newberry Medal-winning bookThe Crossover, which has been adapted into a Disney+ series, on which he's a writer and executive producer.

As controversy swirls around Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and his wife Ginni over financial benefits they received for years from a Texas billionaire, we look at the formative influences on the Washington power couple. Filmmaker Michael Kirk's FRONTLINE PBS documentary examines Clarence Thomas's early years, where he endured poverty, hardship and discrimination in the Jim Crow South. After a period as a Black Power activist in college, he began to criticize affirmative action and build ties with conservative Republicans, leading eventually to his seat on the Supreme Court. He teamed up with and married Ginni Lamp, who grew up surrounded by far-Right conservatives. Kirk's documentary isClarence and Ginni Thomas: Politics, Power and the Supreme Court.

From excessive hygiene to low-fiber diets, author Theresa MacPhail explores the deep-rooted causes of rising allergy rates in her new book Allergic: Our Irritated Bodies in a Changing World.

Julia Louis Dreyfus stars in the new film, You Hurt My Feelings. She also has a podcast called Wiser Than Me, where she asks older women to share their experiences and life lessons. She talks about both projects with Dave Davies.

Also, we hear from Wanda Sykes. In her new Netflix comedy special, she talks about raising teenagers with her French wife, and what it's like to live in the world after a pandemic, an insurrection, and George Floyd.

David Bianculli reviews a new documentary about Mary Tyler Moore.

Samara Joy is the second jazz performer in Grammy history to win "Best New Artist." The 23-year-old also won for "Best Jazz Album." She joined us for a concert and conversation about growing up in a family of gospel singers and her musical influences.

Moore is the subject of a new HBO (MAX) documentary that explores her rise in Hollywood — from her 1970s hit The Mary Tyler Moore Show,which inspired a generation of single professional women, to her 1960s breakout role on The Dick Van Dyke Show. She spoke with Terry Gross in 1995.

Also, we remember novelist, essayist and literary critic Martin Amis, who died last week at 73.

Film critic Justin Chang reviews the new live-action remake of The Little Mermaid.

James Beard Award-winning chef Lidia Bastianich fled the Italian peninsula of Istria, as a child, after it was handed over to Communist Yugoslavia following WWII. She spoke with Terry Gross about her family's journey to America, her first TV dinner, and how food became her "connector." Her new PBS show is Lidia Celebrates America.

Lloyd Schwartz reviews a CD set of opera singer Renée Fleming.

Louis-Dreyfus stars in the new film You Hurt My Feelings. She spoke with Dave Davies about her first big laugh as a kid, receiving the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, and her new podcast, Wiser Than Me.

Also, John Powers reviews the British crime series Happy Valley, now available in the U.S.

Legendary comic Wanda Sykes spoke with Tonya Mosley about the WGA strike, portraying Moms Mabley in the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and raising white kids as a Black mom. Her new Netflix special isI Am an Entertainer.

Also, David Bianculli reviews a new HBO documentary about Mary Tyler Moore, and book critic Maureen Corrigan reviews Goodnight, Ireneby Luis Alberto Urrea.

Joel Edgerton stars as a horticulturist with a secret past as a white nationalist in Paul Schrader's Master Gardener. He spoke with Terry Gross about the film and how his small role in Star Wars changed his career.

TV critic David Bianculli reviews the new Netflix docuseries Working, hosted by President Barack Obama.

Humorist and TV writer Samantha Irby spoke with Tonya Mosley about her new book of essays, Quietly Hostile. She says it's like a survival guide, of sorts.

The Queen of Disco's hits of the 1970s and early '80s included "Hot Stuff," "Last Dance," "Heaven Knows," "On the Radio," "Bad Girls," and "She Works Hard for the Money." She had three consecutive No. 1 platinum albums, and 11 gold albums. She's now the subject of a new HBO documentary, titledLove to Love You: Donna Summer. She died in 2012. Originally broadcast in 2003.

Also, we remember Chris Strachwitz, the founder of Arhoolie records. He devoted his life to tracking down regional musicians – and recording them in their homes, front porches and beer joints. He died earlier this month.

When Sara Bareilles got the role of the Baker's Wife in Sondheim'sInto the Woods, she thought she was signing up for a two-week limited run. But the show became a sensation, and is now a Grammy award-winning Broadway musical with six Tony nominations. She spoke with Ann Marie Baldonado about the show, writing the music for Waitress, and poking fun at the music industry in the seriesGirls5eva.

Also, Kevin Whitehead reviews Arturo O'Farrill's album Legacies.

Matthew Dallek says the John Birch Society, which was active from the late '50s through the early '70s, propelled today's extremist takeover of the American right. His new book is Birchers.

John Powers reviews the award-winning French crime drama The Night of the 12th.

Humorist and TV writer Samantha Irby is not afraid to tell you about her bowel movements, her mental health struggles or about the "glamorous hoarding" in her house. She's made a career out of writing about these things, and spinning them into comedy. She spoke with Tonya Mosley about her new book, Quietly Hostile.

Also, David Bianculli reviews the new Netflix docuseries Working, hosted by Barack Obama.

Edgerton stars as a horticulturist with a secret past as a white nationalist in Master Gardener. We talk about what he learned from director Paul Schrader, his small role inStar Wars: Revenge of the Clones, and working with his brother, who is a stunt man.

Long COVID leaves millions of people with impaired brain function, and yet the medical establishment has a shortage of answers. Neuropsychologist James Jackson says many people with long COVID find they struggle to remember things, perform basic tasks and solve problems – often leading to a loss of employment, income, and important relationships. Jackson's new book is a practical guide for long COVID patients and their families.

And, it's been 50 years since Al Green released his album Call Me. Ken Tucker reminds us why it's widely considered the singer's greatest.

Also, we'll talk about parking with writer Henry Grabar, author of the new book Paved Paradise. He says he's not anti-car, but it's time to make some changes.

The married British duo Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt — aka Everything but the Girl — have their first album in 24 years. Ken Tucker reviews Fuse, then we listen back to a 2018 interview with Thorn.

Also, Justin Chang reviews the movie BlackBerry.

An estimated 200 million people worldwide have long COVID. Dave Davies interviews neuro-psychologist James Jackson about the cognitive impairment, social isolation, and mental health issues that the long COVID patient population experiences. His book isClearing the Fog.

Maureen Corrigan reviews the book Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma, by Claire Dederer.

Author Henry Grabar says parking codes, parking lots and garages have shaped the landscape of cities and suburbs, and limited the creation of affordable housing. His book is Paved Paradise.

TV critic David Bianculli reviews Pete Davidson's semi-autobiographical series on Peacock, Bupkis.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist James Risen tells the story of Senator Frank Church, who exposed crimes and cover-ups of the CIA and the FBI nearly 50 years ago. Risen says the Church hearings, which revealed CIA assassination plots, led to congressional oversight of intelligence agencies. Risen's book isThe Last Honest Man.

Alexandra Auder's mother, Viva, was one of Andy Warhol's muses. Auder's memoir, Don't Call Me Home, describes her early life in the Chelsea Hotel, in a world of underground artists. We talk about her unconventional childhood and parenting her own kids.

Maureen Corrigan reviews Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma, by Claire Dederer

In the experimental show Jury Dutyon Amazon Freevee, actors play oddballs doing their civic duty. The twist? One juror, Ronald, is a real guy who doesn't know it's all fake. Actor James Marsden plays a satirical version of himself. We talk with Marsden about the challenges of filming this unorthodox show.

Johansen was a founding member and frontman for the early '70s glam band The New York Dolls – the band that helped set the stage for the punk movement. Later, Johansen created the lounge-lizard persona Buster Poindexter. He's the subject of the new documentaryPersonality Crisis: One Night Only, co-directed by Martin Scorsese and David Tedeschi. Johansen spoke with Terry Gross in 2004.

Justin Chang reviews the film The Eight Mountains.

A series of investigative reports over the last year has revealed that underage children, most of them migrants from Central America, are working some of the most dangerous jobs in our country — from construction sites to slaughterhouses to factories — operating dangerous equipment. States like Iowa, Missouri, and Ohio are considering rollbacks on child labor protections, allowing minors, some as young as 14, to work longer hours and night shifts. Tonya Mosley spoke with New York Times investigative reporter Hannah Dreier, who has been reporting on the children, and Washington Post business reporter Jacob Bogage, who has been reporting on conservative campaign to weaken child labor laws in the states.

Alexandra Auder's mother, Viva, was one of Andy Warhol's muses. Auder's memoir, Don't Call Me Home, describes her early life in the Chelsea Hotel, in a world of underground artists. We talk about her unconventional childhood and parenting her own kids.

In the experimental show 'Jury Duty' on Amazon Freevee, actors play oddballs doing their civic duty. The twist? One juror, Ronald, is a real guy who doesn't know it's all fake. Actor James Marsden plays a satirical version of himself. We talk with Marsden about the challenges of filming this unorthodox show.

Also, John Powers reviews the Romanian film R.M.N.

Journalist Justice Malala explains how Nelson Mandela and F. W. de Klerk kept the country on a path to peace after the 1993 assassination of Chris Hani. His book is The Plot to Save South Africa.

Also, David Bianculli reviews the five part HBO series White House Plumbers, a new spin on a Watergate break-in drama.

Beloved YA author Judy Blume talks with Terry Gross about her books being banned, motherhood, and feminism. The first film adaptation of her breakthrough novel, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, is now out in theaters. And journalist and writer Virginia Sole-Smith talks about her new book, Fat Talk: Parenting In The Age of Diet Culture.

ComicRoy Wood Jr. will host the White House Correspondents Dinner this weekend. Recently Wood guest hosted The Daily Show, as Comedy Central decides who will replace Trevor Noah. He spoke with Terry Gross in 2018.

It's been 50 years since Al Green released his album Call Me. Critic Ken Tucker reminds us why it's widely considered the singer's greatest. And Justin Chang reviews the new film based on the popular 1970 Judy Blume book Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.

Singer Harry Belafonte starred in films and helped popularize calypso music in the U.S. in the 1950s. In the '60s he became a civil rights activist. He died April 25. He spoke with Terry Gross in 1993.

Also, we hear from "full-spectrum" doula Vicki Bloom. Since 2010, Bloom has worked with the Doula Project, a New York City-based collective that partners with clinics to support pregnant people — whether the result is childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion.

TV critic David Bianculli reviews the new reboot seriesFatal Attraction.

Financial journalist Gretchen Morgenson explains how private equity firms buy out companies, then lay off employees and cut costs in order to expand profits. Her new book isThese are the Plunderers.

Also, jazz critic Kevin Whitehead remembers pianist Ahmad Jamal.

Journalist Virginia Sole-Smith says efforts to fight childhood obesity have caused kids to absorb an onslaught of body-shaming messages. We talk about thin privilege, how to neutralize food and the word "fat," and how diet culture hurts everyone. Her new book is Fat Talk.

Known for her books about adolescence and all that comes with it, Judy Blume is widely beloved and widely banned. Her 1970 novel,Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret. has been adapted for the screen for the first time. She's also the subject of a new documentary, Judy Blume Forever. We talk about feminism, marriage, and parenting her own kids.

Russell played a fictional Soviet spy in The Americans. Now she stars as a career foreign service officer who reluctantly becomes the U.S. ambassador in London in the Netflix series The Diplomat.

Then, Maureen Corrigan reviews There Will Be Fire,by journalist Rory Carroll.

Also, author David Grann tells the story of an 18th-century British warship that wrecked along the coast of Patagonia. His new book is The Wager.

For decades, Anne Perry, who died April 10, kept secret the fact that she was one of the teenage girls involved in the murder depicted in the 1994 film Heavenly Creatures. Originally broadcast in 1994.

One of the first openly gay editors working at a major publishing house, Michael Denneny launched the Stonewall Inn Editions imprint. He died April 12. Originally broadcast in 1987 and 1994.

Plus, Kevin Whitehead reviews Walter Smith III's album return to casual. AndJustin Chang reviews the film, Beau is Afraid.

The new Broadway musical New York, New York includes Kander and Ebb's songs from Scorsese's 1977 film. We listen back to an '83 interview with Kander and Ebb, plus '91 and '15 interviews with Kander.

David Bianculli reviews the new Amazon Prime series, Dead Ringers.

Author David Grann tells the story of an 18th-century British warship that wrecked along the coast of Patagonia. The survivors sailed thousands of miles to safety, and later faced charges of mutiny. His new book is The Wager.

After starring in Felicityfrom 1998 until 2002, Russell took a break from acting. "That step back is the only way I'm still in this business," She says. She went on to star (with her real-life partner Matthew Rhys) in The Americans. Now, in the new Netflix political drama, The Diplomat,Russell plays a career foreign service officer who's forced out of her comfort zone when she becomes the U.S. ambassador in London.

Also, Maureen Corrigan reviews There Will Be Fire, by Rory Carroll.

Mary Louise Kelly, a host of NPR'sAll Things Considered, and former national security correspondent, talks about the difficulties juggling her career and being a mother. Her memoir isIt. Goes. So. Fast.

Then Justin Chang reviews the new film Showing Up.

Also, Josh Groban first auditioned to play Sweeney Todd back in high school. He didn't get the part then; now he's starring in the Broadway revival. He spoke with Fresh Air's Ann Marie Baldonado.

Mimi Sheraton was a food writer and restaurant critic for The New York Times. So she wouldn't get preferential treatment at a restaurant, she had a collection of wigs to disguise herself. She died earlier this month at age 97.

Actor Michael Lerner played a studio mogul in Barton Fink, and a mob boss in Harlem Nights. He died earlier this month at age 81.

Also, Justin Chang reviews Showing Up, the new film by Kelly Reichardt.

'New York Times' journalist Jeremy Peters explains Dominion Voting Systems' $1.6 billion lawsuit against Fox News. Dominion claims that Fox's hosts and commentators falsely stated that Dominion was part of a conspiracy to steal votes from Donald Trump with the larger goal of stealing the election. "Legal experts tell me that rarely have they seen a case this strong," Peters says.

Dr. Sandeep Jauhar talks about his father's decline, and about his own quest to understand what happens in a brain afflicted with Alzheimer's. Jauhar's new memoir is called "My Father's Brain."

Also, John Powers reviews the political thriller "How to Blow Up a Pipeline."

Mary Louise Kelly, a host of NPR'sAll Things Considered, and former national security correspondent, talks about the difficulties juggling her career and being a mother. At work, the breaking news stories and deadlines are non-stop. She's reported from around the world, including from war zones. She left NPR twice, after her youngest son's medical issues convinced her she needed to be home. Her memoir isIt. Goes. So. Fast.

David Bianculli reviews Sunday's spectacular episode of HBO's Succession.

The Grammy-Award winning baritone first auditioned to play the Demon Barber of Fleet Street back in high school. He didn't get the part then; now he's starring in the Broadway revival. He spoke with Fresh Air's Ann Marie Baldonado about his affinity for Stephen Sondheim, poking fun at his own image on TV, and starting his singing career as a teen.

Maureen Corrigan reviews Nicole Chung's new memoir, A Living Remedy.

40 million people rely on water from the Colorado River, but overuse and global warming have combined to create a water emergency. Tough choices must be made soon, or farms and cities will face critical shortages. We talk with ProPublica investigative reporter Abrahm Lustgarten.
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Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead reviews a recording by pianist Mal Waldron.

This year Samara Joy became the second jazz performer in Grammy history to win "Best New Artist." The 23-year-old also won for "Best Jazz Album." She joins us for a concert and conversation about growing up in a family of gospel singers and her musical influences.

Film critic Justin Chang reviews A Thousand and One.

Brooke Shields looks back on her childhood career with guest interviewer Tonya Mosley. The new Hulu documentary, Pretty Baby, examines how she was sexually objectified as a child and teen actress.

Record biz giant Seymour Stein died last Sunday at age 80. He was the co-founder of Sire Records, which he ran from 1966 until he stepped down in 2018. We're have two archival interviews with Stein. Over his long career, he signed a wide range of pioneering artists from The Ramones and Madonna to Talking Heads, The Pretenders, k.d. lang and Ice-T.

Also, we listen back to our interview with Joni Mitchell. She recently received the Gershwin Prize for Popular Music.

Justin Chang reviews the film Air, about the origin story of Nike's Air Jordans, starring and directed by Ben Affleck.

Five years ago, a Supreme Court ruling lifted a ban on betting on sports. New York Timesreporter Eric Lipton uncovers the lobbying, favorable deals, partnerships and human impact that's come from that decision. He and a team of investigative reporters did a series in theTimescalled A Risky Wager.

Kevin Whitehead marks the 100 year anniversary of Louis Armstrong and King Joe Oliver's first recording.

Philosophy professor Clancy Martin lives with two incompatible ideas in his head: "I wish I were dead – and I'm glad my suicide [attempts] failed." He says he wrote his book, How Not to Kill Yourself, especially for people struggling with suicidal thoughts.

If you or someone you know is in an emotional crisis, reach out to the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988.

Brooke Shields looks back on her childhood career with guest interviewer Tonya Mosley. When she was 11 months old, she was in soap commercials and print ads. At the age of 12, she starred as a child prostitute in the film Pretty Baby. In her teens, she modeled jeans for Calvin Klein and became a household name. The new Hulu documentary,Pretty Baby, examines how she was sexually objectified as a child and teen actress.

Also, Ken Tucker reviews Lana Del Rey's new album which he says features risky, ambitious music.

Bible scholar Bart Ehrman says interpretations of the Book of Revelation have created disastrous problems — from personal psychological damage to consequences for foreign policy and the environment. His book is Armageddon: What the Bible Really Says about the End.

John Powers reviews the romantic comedy Rye Lane.

Clint Smith's poems, which are addressed to his young children, describe what their ancestors endured and escaped. He also examines the joy and anxiety of parenthood, especially as a Black father. His book of poetry is calledAbove Ground.

Justin Chang reviews the film Tori and Lokita.

Brett Goldstein is a writer for Ted Lasso and plays Roy Kent, a gruff but lovable retired footballer-turned-coach. He spoke with Ann Marie Baldonado.

Two popular TV series are beginning their second seasons: Yellowjacketson Showtime, andSchmigadoon! on Apple TV+. Ann Marie Baldonado spoke with Melanie Lynskey, one of the stars of Yellowjackets. It's the story of the members of a high school girls soccer team who survive a plane crash and must get by in the wilderness for over a year.

Schmigadoon!is a loving parody of musicals from years past, such as Oklahoma,The Music Man andBrigadoon. Terry Gross spoke with Cinco Paul, who wrote the songs, and co-created and co-wrote the series. Finally, TV critic David Bianculli reviews the new season.

Last month Samara Joy became the second jazz performer in Grammy history to win "Best New Artist." The 23-year-old also won for "Best Jazz Album." She joins us for a concert and conversation about growing up in a family of gospel singers and her musical influences.

Clint Smith's poems, which are addressed to his young children, describe what their ancestors endured and escaped. He also examines the joy and anxiety of parenthood, especially as a Black father. His book of poetry is calledAbove Ground.

Also, Justin Chang reviews A Thousand and One.

Public health professor Arline Geronimus explains how marginalized people suffer nearly constant stress, which damages their bodies at the cellular level. Her new book is Weathering: The Extraordinary Stress of Ordinary Life in an Unjust Society.

Also Maureen Corrigan reviews Biography of X by Catherine Lacey.

Brett Goldstein is a writer for Ted Lasso and plays Roy Kent, a gruff but lovable retired footballer-turned-coach. He says "Sport is there so men can say 'I love you' without saying 'I love you.'" He spoke with Ann Marie Baldonado about getting the role of Roy, the series ending, and also co-creating the series Shrinking.

Also, filmmaker Justin Chang reviews Tori and Lokita.

Ari Shapiro co-hosts NPR'sAll Things Considered, co-stars in a cabaret act with Alan Cumming, and sings with the band Pink Martini. Now, he's written a book, a memoir called The Best Strangers in the World.

Billy Crudup stars as a fast-talking salesman — selling timeshares on the moon to frustrated earthlings — in the Apple TV+ series Hello Tomorrow! We also talk about going to rock star camp for his role in Almost Famousandhis iconic Mastercard commercials.

The final season of the HBO series Successionbegins Sunday. We listen back to our interviews with Brian Cox, who plays Logan Roy the patriarch in a family-owned business empire, Kieran Culkin, who plays Roman, the immature and jokey son, and Matthew Macfadyen, who plays the put-upon son-in-law Tom Wambsgans.

Linda Simpson performed in and chronicled the New York drag scene in the '80s and '90s, taking some 5,000 photos of performers. Her collection is called The Drag Explosion. She says Tennessee's anti-drag legislation is "ridiculous."

Also, we remember late Episcopal Bishop Frank Griswold. He presided over the ordination of the church's first openly gay bishop. He died earlier this month.

John Powers reviews the new Netflix thriller series The Night Agent.

Ari Shapiro co-hosts NPR's All Things Considered, co-stars in a cabaret act with Alan Cumming, and sings with the band Pink Martini. Now, he's written a book, a memoir called The Best Strangers in the World.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Matthew Desmond says if the top 1% of Americans paid the taxes they owed, it would raise $175 billion each year: "That is just about enough to pull everyone out of poverty." His new book is Poverty, by America.

Also Ken Tucker shares three songs: Iris DeMent's "Goin' Down to Sing in Texas," Sunny War's "Love's Death Bed," and Margo Price's "Radio."

Billy Crudup stars as a fast-talking salesman — selling timeshares on the moon to frustrated earthlings — in the Apple TV+ series Hello Tomorrow! We also talk about going to rock star camp for his role inAlmost Famous, his iconic Mastercard commercials, and The Morning Show.

Memphis drag queen Bella DuBalle says the legislators behind a new Tennessee law criminalizing public drag shows don't understand the art. We talk with the native Tennessean about the law, performing for kids, and how her livelihood and safety are at risk.

Maureen Corrigan reflects on 40 years of Nora Ephron's Heartburn and recommends a new comic novel.

Actor Clancy Brown has been working since the 1980s and has played some memorable villains over the years in movies, including Shawshank Redemption, Highlander and, coming out later this month, John Wick: Chapter 4. But he may be best known as the voice of Mr. Krabs on the animated show Spongebob Squarepants.

Michelle Yeoh made history last week, becoming the first Asian woman to win an Oscar for best actress. We'll hear our interview with Yeoh aboutEverything Everywhere All At Once. Yeoh has also starred in Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, the Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, and Crazy Rich Asians.

We'll also hear our interview with Adam Sandler. He's this year's recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Sandler talks about playing a jewelry store owner in the film Uncut Gems, and his music comedy.

David Bianculli reviewsLucky Hank starring Bob Odenkirk.

Bella DuBalle says the legislators behind a new Tennessee law criminalizing public drag shows don't understand the art: "They think that every drag performer is doing something hypersexual or obscene." We talk with the native Tennessean about the law, performing for kids, and how her livelihood and safety are at risk.

Also, Maureen Corrigan celebrates the 40th anniversary of Nora Ephron's Heartburn and shares a new comic novel, Pineapple Street.

Many of Ricardo Nuila's patients at Houston's Ben Taub Hospital are dealing with serious illnesses as a result of not being able to access basic preventive care. His new book is The People's Hospital: Hope and Peril in American Medicine.

Actor Clancy Brown has been working since the 1980s and has played some memorable villains over the years in movies, including Shawshank Redemption, Highlander and, coming out later this month, John Wick 4. But he may be best known as the voice of Mr. Krabs on the animated show Spongebob Squarepants.

Kevin Whitehead revies the new jazz recording by Fred Hersch and Esperanza Spalding, and John Powers reviews the new novel Birnam Wood by Booker Prize-winner Eleanor Catton.

Karen Fine talks about practicing Chinese medicine and acupuncture on sick pets, what "ADR" stands for, and the mental health issues many veterinarians face. Her new book is The Other Family Doctor.

Also, Ken Tucker reviews Caroline Polachek's new album Desire, I Want to Turn Into You.

Writer Thomas Mallon talks about his diaries that were recently published in the New Yorker, titled Finding My Way– and Staying Alive — During the Aids Crisis. Mallon's latest novel, Up With the Sun,is based on the life and murder of Dick Kallman, a closeted actor in the 1950s and '60s.

Critic John Powers reviews the filmReturn to Seoul.

Also, we hear from Dr. Farzon Nahvi. He has a new memoir about his experiences in the ER, and his frustrations with American healthcare during COVID. It's called Code Gray: Death, Life and Uncertainty in the ER.

We explore the subtle genius of a man often remembered for pratfalls and sight gags. Buster Keaton was a silent film star in the 1920s, but he was far more than an actor and stuntman. He conceived and directed his films, cited by some of America's leading filmmakers as inspirations. We speak with Slatefilm critic Dana Stevens, whose book examines Keaton's work and influence, and chronicles his colorful life. Her book, Camera Man, is now out in paperback.

Justin Chang reviews the new film Palm Trees & Power Lines.

Mallon talks about his diaries that were recently published in the New Yorker, in a piece titled Finding My Way — and Staying Alive — During the AIDS Crisis: A Diary of 1980s Manhattan. He was in his thirties then. His latest novel, Up With the Sun, is based on the life and murder of Dick Kallman, a closeted actor in the 1950s and '60s.

Science writer Sally Adee says scientists are experimenting with ways to manipulate the body's natural electrical fields to try and treat wounds, depression, paralysis, and cancer. Her new book is We Are Electric.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead has an appreciation of Wayne Shorter, who died March 2. John Powers reviews the filmReturn to Seoul.

We look back on the life of Jimmy Carter. He is spending his remaining time at home, under hospice care. Carter was elected president in 1976, and lost his re-election campaign to Ronald Reagan. He was later praised for redefining the meaning and purpose of the post-presidency. He talked with Terry Gross about why he entered politics, his presidency, his work negotiating with tyrants, his faith, and his reflections on aging.

UCLA law professor Joanna Schwartz talks about the legal protections — including qualified immunity and no-knock warrants — that have protected officers from the repercussions of abuse. Her book is Shielded.

Also, David Bianculli reviews Mel Brooks' History of the World Part IIon Hulu.

In Tár, Cate Blanchett plays a charismatic orchestra conductor who uses her power to take sexual advantage of young women she's mentoring. Tár is nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Director.

Maureen Corrigan reviewsI Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai.

Ke Huy Quan starred in the '80s films Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doomand The Goonies as a kid, before quitting acting. Now he's up for an Oscar for the first major acting job he's had in decades for the role of Waymond in Everything Everywhere All at Once.

We pay tribute to Doc Watson on the centennial of his birth. The pioneering bluegrass, country and folk guitarist and singer changed the way people around the world think about mountain music. In his prime, he was considered the greatest guitar flat picker. We'll listen back to our 1988 interview, and his 1989 performance on our show.

Also, John Powers reviews the new season ofPerry Mason.

Journalist Will Sommer went to road shows and spoke to believers and their families while investigating QAnon. His book,Trust the Plan, makes the case that there are more conspiracy theories to come.

In Tár, Cate Blanchett plays a charismatic orchestra conductor who uses her power to take sexual advantage of young women she's mentoring. "For me, it was never really about classical music," director Todd Field says. "And it was about ... how do you look at power and why does power exist? And it's not a uni-directional situation. Nobody holds power alone. There's a complicity in it." Tár is nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Director.

Also, Maureen Corrigan reviews the literary thrillerI Have Some Questions for Youby Rebecca Makkai.

We talk about a small group of unelected officials who make important decisions that affect our lives, all the time. New York Timesreporter Jeanna Smialek covers the Federal Reserve, which manages the nation's money supply, and is currently struggling to get inflation down by raising interest rates. Smialek says the Fed wields enormous influence, and is growing more powerful as it responds to national crises, including the financial meltdown and the pandemic. Her new book is Limitless.

Podcast critic Nick Quah reviews the new season from Serial called The Coldest Case in Laramie.

Quan starred in the '80s filmsIndiana Jones and the Temple of DoomandThe Gooniesas a kid, before quitting acting. Now he's up for an Oscar for the first major acting job he's had in decades for the role of Waymond in Everything Everywhere All at Once.

Justin Chang reviews the Irish film The Quiet Girl.

We'll talk withNew Yorker staff writer Michael Schulman about his new book, Oscar Wars. It's about the ongoing conflicts surrounding race, gender, and representation in Hollywood, as well as earlier conflicts dating back to the founding of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Also, we'll hear from comic and podcaster Marc Maron. In his new HBO comedy special, From Bleak to Dark, he talks about climate change, anti-Semitism, and processing the sudden death of his girlfriend, Lynn Shelton.

John Powers reviews the documentary,All That Breathes,about two brothers devoted to rescuing birds in Delhi, India.

We remember two accomplished performers from different fields: Sharp-witted comedian Richard Belzer, probably best-known for playing the dramatic role of Detective John Munch on Law & Order, and major-league catcher and Hall of Fame broadcaster Tim McCarver.

Also, TV critic David Bianculli reviews Hello Tomorrow!starring Billy Crudup.

From relentless campaigning to snubs and speeches, the Academy Awards have often reflected a cultural conflict zone. Michael Schulman sifts through the controversies in his new book, Oscar Wars.

Also, Kevin Whitehead shares a remembrance of Burt Bacharach.

Dr. Farzon Nahvi spent the early months of the pandemic as an emergency room physician in Manhattan. He talks about trying to improvise treatments during that time. His new book is Code Gray.

Also, David Bianculli reflects on 10 years ofLast Week Tonight with John Oliver.

For President's Day, we speak with Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer Robert Caro about the life of Lyndon Johnson. To understand his subject, Caro moved to the Texas Hill country to meet friends and associates of Johnson from his early years. At age 87, Caro is still working on the last volume of his Johnson biography.

What do great conductors listen to when they're not on the podium? Philadelphia Orchestra/Met Opera conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin made a playlist, specifically for Fresh Air, of music that inspires him. It includes a surprising mix of pop, hip-hop and classical music — and includes a song that his cats love.

In the last 30 years, Ruth E. Carter has produced some of the most iconic looks in the Black film canon and beyond. She won an Academy Award for Black Panther and is now nominated for Wakanda Forever. She spoke with Tonya Mosley about these projects as well as her decades-long collaboration with Spike Lee.

We remember David Jolicoeur, otherwise known as Trugoy the Dove, of the hip-hop group De La Soul. The influential group that emerged in the late 1980s brought a sense of fun and wit to the genre, as well as a middle-class suburban sensibility. We'll listen back to our 2000 interview with him.

Also, science writer Ed Yong tells us about how animals perceive the world differently than humans, through hearing, sight, vibrations, echoes and magnetic fields. It's the subject of his bookAn Immense World.

Justin Chang reviews the new film Emily, about the novelist Emily Brontë in the years before she wrote Wuthering Heights.

After the sudden death of his girlfriend Lynn Shelton in 2020, comedian and podcaster Marc Maron was forced to grieve in isolation. He talks about finding humor amidst his grief in his new HBO special, From Bleak to Dark.

Also, Ken Tucker reviews a new release of Bob Dylan'sTime Out of Mind.

What do great conductors listen to when they're not on the podium? Philadelphia Orchestra/Met Opera conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin made a playlist, specifically for Fresh Air, of music that inspires him. It includes a surprising mix of pop, hip-hop and classical music — and includes a song that his cats love.

Find the playlist on ourwebsite or on Spotify.

In the last 30 years, Ruth E. Carter has produced some of the most iconic looks in the Black film canon and beyond. She won an Academy Award for Black Panther and is now nominated for Wakanda Forever. She spoke with Tonya Mosley about these projects as well as her decades-long collaboration with Spike Lee.

Also, Maureen Corrigan reviews On Writing and Failure by Stephen Marche.

We remember composer and arranger Burt Bacharach, who died last week at 94. Bacharach, along with lyricist Hal David, created dozens of pop hits of the '60s and early '70s. He was known for his rhythmically sophisticated and catchy pop songs, like The Look of Love, Do You Know the Way to San Jose, Walk on By, Anyone Who Had a Heart, Don't Make Me Over, Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head, I Say a Little Prayer, and Alfie. We'll listen back to two of our interviews. One with Bacharach and lyricist Hal David. The other with Bacharach and Elvis Costello. They wrote many songs together.

The new Oscar-nominated documentary, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed, focuses on world-famous photographer Nan Goldin, her life, her work, and the protests she led at museums that accepted funding from the Sackler family. Their company, Purdue Pharma, manufactured and unscrupulously marketed OxyContin. We'll talk with Goldin and director Laura Poitras.

Book critic Maureen Corrigan reviews Up With the Sun, by Thomas Mallon.

One of the most acclaimed jazz pianists of his generation, Brad Mehldau sits down at the piano, for music and conversation. His album, Your Mother Should Know, interprets songs by The Beatles.

It's been 50 years since Schoolhouse Rock appeared on Saturday morning TV to teach kids about math, grammar and history. We're listening back to portions of our interviews with some of the people behind those songs: Composer, pianist and singer Bob Dorough, songwriter and pianist Dave Frishberg, and trumpeter and singer Jack Sheldon.

Also, film critic Justin Chang reviews Magic Mike's Last Dance, the third and final Magic Mike film starring Channing Tatum.

The new Oscar-nominated documentary, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed, focuses on world-famous photographer Nan Goldin, her life, her work, and the protests she led at museums that accepted funding from the Sackler family. Their company, Purdue Pharma, manufactured and unscrupulously marketed OxyContin. We'll talk with Goldin and director Laura Poitras.

Also, John Powers reviews the documentary (also Oscar-nominated) All That Breathes.