The Tanya Acker Show: Recent Episodes
The Tanya Acker Show
You may know Tanya Acker as one of three judges on CBS Television Distribution's Emmy-nominated HOT BENCH. But long before HOT BENCH, Tanya was delving into problems in the corridors of the public and private sectors with some of the country's top minds. Look a problem in the eye and figure out how to fix it - social media dislikes and cathartic rants can only get us so far. The Tanya Acker Show is about recognizing that we're bigger than our problems. It's about looking at truth; fighting better and smarter with each other; brainstorming ideas; knowing that bad things are fixable; and having more fun. We hope you'll listen in as Tanya and her guests explore a wide range of topics - from fighting frivolous lawsuits to ensuring meaningful criminal justice reform to breaking bread with political opponents without breaking glass in each other's faces. Early guests include Anthony Daniels, Alabama House Minority leader (and the first African-American to hold the job); Lecia Brooks, historical consultant on BlacKKKlansman and expert on voting rights; Lawyers Paul Derby, Michael Trope on fighting frivolous lawsuits; Former prosecutor David Kettel on crying wolf to the police. Listen to The Tanya Acker Show - where we'll get real and not just mad, where we look for ways to fix what troubles us, and where we remember to have a little fun from time to time, too.
I sit down with Beth Macy for an honest conversation about truth, empathy, and finding common ground in divided times. We talk about how to navigate family and friendship across political and ethical lines, the growing challenges to free press, and the responsibility of storytelling in shaping public understanding. Beth also shares insights from her new book Paper Girl, a deeply personal return to her Ohio hometown that examines the political, economic, and social divides defining small-town America. She reflects on her acclaimed work Dopesick, which inspired the Hulu series exposing how corporate power and systemic greed fueled the opioid crisis.
Paper Girl is available now wherever books are sold!
In this conversation, Massachusetts Rep. Jake Auchincloss and I discuss the government shutdown, the abundant falsities in modern media, the true value and meaning of serving our country, and more.
What does it mean to live life through music? In this conversation, Adam Blackstone reflects on its power to heal, inspire, and connect, even in the face of censorship and politics. He recalls the unforgettable experience of performing in the Grace for the World Tour at the Vatican (now streaming on Hulu and Disney+), where artists from around the world united in song. Adam shares how music has defined his life, not just as a career but as a bridge across generations and communities, and he celebrates his latest album release, Humble Magic, Vol. 1, now available everywhere
Legendary American novelist Walter Mosley and I discuss his purpose for writing, the importance of the right kind of representation, and learning to understand the world we live in through literature and film.
The CNN host discusses his new book, Race Against Terror, and the current state of American politics.
Yvette Nicole Brown opens up about living life on her own terms throughout her celebrated entertainment career, sharing how she cares for family, nurtures her community, and embraces true love. Now, she steps into an exciting new chapter with her latest film, Code 3.
The Colorado state representative talks to Tanya about his run for Congress and why it’s time to create a new chapter in American politics.
In part two of this conversation, poet and lawyer Reginald Dwayne Betts shares how he built Freedom Reads from an idea into a national initiative, the unexpected ways prison shaped his understanding of justice, and why bringing world-class literature to people behind bars is a radical act of hope.
In part one of this conversation, poet and lawyer Reginald Dwayne Betts reflects on his journey from incarceration to Ivy League education, how reading reshaped his life, and the beginnings of Freedom Reads—a project that brings books into prisons and reimagines what justice can look like.
The Dartmouth distinguished scholar and former Egyptian and UN diplomat proposes a solution to the Gaza crisis that may be no one’s first choice, which is precisely why it might work.
After online sextortionists drove his son Gavin to suicide, South Carolina state senator Brandon Guffey changed the law and created a forum for saving young people through his charity, LessThan3.com (<3). LessThan3 provides resources for targets and potential victims of sextortion and an important reminder too - Tomorrow Needs You.
In this powerful episode, Tanya sits down with Public Counsel's Senior Special Counsel Mark Rosenbaum to discuss the recent legal victory against ICE's immigration raids in Los Angeles. Described by LA Mayor Karen Bass as a 'reign of terror,' these raids, targeting non-criminals based on appearance and Spanish language, have raised significant concern about civil rights violations. Listen as Tanya and Mark talk about why they brought the fight to the government and what happens next.
The President and Co-Founder of Run for Something talks about breaking the “gerontocracy,” empowering new leadership, and how not to be a “Bad Boomer Boss.”
The veteran actor talks about what it means to have audiences embrace “The Pitt” and her character, Nurse Dana; the influences that led her from the ballet stage to acting; and how much she loves the fun of it all.
Stacey Abrams discusses her prescient new novel “Coded Justice”, the dangers of unregulated AI, and how reclaiming personal power is essential in the fight against authoritarianism.
The NYU law professor, president of the ACLU, and author of Dividing Lines: How Transportation Infrastructure Reinforces Racial Inequality, discusses her book, the importance of rule of law, and why she still remains an optimist.
Over the last decade, our Internet experience has become increasingly dictated by algorithms- data-driven equations that try to anticipate (and elicit) our desires. The problem is, they often get it wrong. The math doesn't math.
Kyle Chayka (staff writer, The New Yorker) has written a new book on the subject entitled "Filterworld."
This week, Tanya and Kyle talk about this ever-tightening web woven by algorithms and how we can begin breaking free from it.
Axios National Political Correspondent and co-author of “Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again” discusses the controversy around the book, the media’s role in holding power accountable, the hidden history of presidential health cover-ups, and the deeper issues shaping both major parties in America.
With this week's decision on the Sean Combs case, we return to our talk with Emmy-nominated CNN anchor Laura Coates. Together, Laura and Tanya break down the inner workings of the courtroom and defense that led to Comb's acquittal of sex-trafficking.
The Army veteran and “lifelong learner” became, at 86, the oldest graduate of Emory’s 2025 class when he received his Masters in Business for Veterans. He talks to Tanya about solving problems, learning new things, addressing conflict while not losing oneself, and dating!
We're throwing it back to one of our favorite episodes of the season, with author Martha Wells. We talk all things “The Murderbot Diaries” (now streaming on Apple TV+), the innovation of the new sci-fi series, and what it means to be human.
The author of The Great Mann discusses the real-life inspiration for the novel, how she fights back against historical erasure, and “holding love for the work of deeply-flawed people.”
Celebrity hairstylist Angela Stevens talks about navigating an unexpected and difficult diagnosis, the importance of early advocacy, and finding your tribe.
The Emmy-nominated CNN anchor breaks down what’s happening inside the courtroom, the strategic choices the prosecution and defense have made so far, and what we can expect next.
The veteran actor talks about what it means to have audiences embrace “The Pitt” and her character, Nurse Dana; the influences that led her from the ballet stage to acting; and how much she loves the fun of it all.
Tanya talks to Carlene Davis, co-founder of Sistahs Aging with Grace and Elegance (SAGE) about doing better by our elders and how caretakers - both current and future - can take better care of themselves, too. Plus, what the “Missing Middle” can do to ensure it has the resources it needs to look after themselves and the people they love.
Tanya talks to bestselling author Kennedy Ryan about why she tells the stories she does, her ability to remain so prolific, navigating depression during the pandemic, and how “love shines brightest when it’s tested.”
Tanya interviews Shaye Ogbonna, creator of the Peacock series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist. They discuss the context behind this 1970s Atlanta story, his advice for aspiring filmmakers, the impact of Issa Rae, and the beauty and representation he was determined to capture in the series.
Tanya talks to the influencer and host of the award-winning podcast “Weight For It” about body, learning to love the moment, and living your best life when life happens.
Tanya talks to the author of The Murderbot Diaries (now playing on Apple TV+) about her innovative sci-fi series and what it means to be human.
Tariffs here and tariffs there. What is this tariff situation about? Why is it happening and what does it mean? Listen as Tanya and Peter Harrell, host of the podcast “Security Economics,” break it all down.
After a brief hiatus, The Tanya Acker Show is back with The Art of Deciding series. Every Tuesday and Thursday, Tanya will sit with newsmakers, trendsetters, and leaders of every stripe to talk through the forces that drive their decision making.
New episodes begin this Thursday, May 15th, featuring tariff expert and host of podcast Security Economics, Peter Harrell.
Follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!
Today, Tanya discusses the devastating Los Angeles wildfires with New York Times reporter Ivan Penn. They dive into how power grid issues may have contributed to the fires, ongoing investigations, detected electrical faults, and the complexities of power line infrastructure. They also unpack the city's efforts to upgrade the grid and, in turn, respond to increasing wildfire risks amidst climate change.
Tanya interviews Shaye Ogbonna, creator of the Peacock series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist. They discuss the context behind this 1970s Atlanta story, his advice for aspiring filmmakers, the impact of Issa Rae, and the beauty and representation he was determined to capture in the series.
Tanya and the New York Times bestselling author talk about her latest novel, One of Our Kind, which explores what “community” means and how we see ourselves.
Tanya talks to KBLA White House correspondent Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey, author of Kamala, The Motherland and Me, about his trip to Africa with Vice President Kamala Harris and in particular, his visit to Ghana, from where his late father emigrated to America. From that trip came a determination not only to build new relationships between Americans and Africa, but also between Americans and each other.
Vanity Fair Special Correspondent Gabriel Sherman decided to write a movie, The Apprentice, about former President Trump’s early days in New York. Why did Sherman decide to take on such a project? Because he had to.
The Los Angeles Clippers wanted a ring and were closer than ever when they had to confront a dark story that was one of sports’ open secrets. What pressures came to bear and how did they manage them? And what was the domino effect of decisions that forced them to confront what others had long ignored? Tanya talks to ESPN Reporter Ramona Shelburne, host and creator of the podcast The Sterling Affairs and Executive Producer of the FX series, Clipped.
Over the last decade, our Internet experience has become increasingly dictated by algorithms- data-driven equations that try to anticipate (and elicit) our desires. The problem is, they often get it wrong. The math doesn't math.
Kyle Chayka (staff writer,The New Yorker) has written a new book on the subject entitled "Filterworld."
This week, Tanya and Kyle talk about this ever-tightening web woven by algorithms and how we can begin breaking free from it.
Tanya talks to the Emmy Award-winning television show host and best-selling author about her latest novel, Watch Where They Hide, and how she's plotted her own life’s path.
Tanya and the podcaster, journalist, filmmaker and advocate talk about how he is “proof of concept” about the benefits of opportunity and inclusion. Listen as they discuss justifiable fears; not fearing too much; and how to change lives, communities, and cultures - all while growing the tax base!
This week the Senate pressed chief executives of Meta, TikTok, X, Snap and Discord over what lawmakers are calling “a crisis in America” -- accusing the tech giants of ignoring the harmful content against children on their respective platforms.
It's a conversation we first had on this program back in November of last year, when Tanya sat down with Zamaan Qureshi (a college student and co-founder of Design It For Us). In this special re-release, Tanya and Zamaan discuss his campaign to make social media safer for young people, and his lawsuit against the SEC.
Original airdate: November 30th, 2023
Tanya talks to Ann Druyan about space, love, facts, and voting. Plus, how to come back when people laugh at you for being smart and curious.
Tanya talks to the filmmaker about her latest film, reclaiming the narrative of what it means to be an American, and why hope always must win.
For 35 years Oliver James was functionally illiterate - even though he had a high school diploma. Listen to what happened when he decided to stop mimicking life and start living it.
Tanya talks to the directors of the film Invisible Beauty, which tells the life story of the groundbreaking Bethann Hardison. From emulating the strength of the Samurai, to insisting that fashion is more than just one type, to reminding us to vote, Bethann’s story is many things all at once.
Tanya talks to Zamaan Qureshi, a college student co-founder of Design It For Us, about the campaign to make social media safer for young people, and his lawsuit against the SEC.
Tanya talks to artist, illustrator and entrepreneur Angie Quintanilla Coates about the art of keeping us on the bright side.
(Original air date: April 7th, 2022)
This week Tanya talks to Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17) about the war in Ukraine, our relationship with China, the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas and the resulting war in Gaza. They also discuss in-office sit-ins, the threatened brawls on Capitol Hill and, for a pleasant change, civil discourse with a political opponent. Tanya and Ro cover a lot so don’t miss this!
Tanya talks to the lawyers who helped Dominion Voting Systems achieve a $787 million settlement in its defamation case against Fox News over false claims of a “stolen” election. When is the lie someone tells, or spreads, worth money? When should you just move on?
Tanya talks to the history-making justice about the family tragedy that led her to the bench, and busting through other people’s assumptions to do what you must.
(Original air date: 3/22/23)
Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of the now bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange FTX, faces up to 100 years in jail for his role in one of the biggest financial frauds on record.
In this re-release, Tanya talks to journalist Sylvan Lane, Finance and Economic Policy Reporter at The Hill, about how cryptocurrency works and what happened at FTX.
(Originally aired: 12/22)
Tanya talks to Rebecca Kiessling about loss, healing, and fighting the fentanyl crisis.
While Uvalde remains a community that mourns, heals, and remembers its victims, it is also a community that moved Albert Martinez to drive 140 miles to teach music at Uvalde High School. This is the story of how he got a group of unlikely musicians to open up, and how they all brought victory and triumph to Uvalde.
Tanya talks to the author of Major Labels: A History of Popular Music in Seven Genres, about the significance of musical genres; our fandom and our tastes; and some of music’s most powerful moments.
Tanya talks to Karen Harvey, author of The Imposteress Rabbit Breeder: Mary Toft and Eighteenth-Century England
Tanya talks to Matthew Goodman, author of The Sun and the Moon: The Remarkable True Account of Hoaxers, Showmen, Dueling Journalists and Lunar Man-Bats in Nineteenth Century New York. The story is crazier than you can believe and no description here will do it justice. Enjoy the show.
Tanya talks to Alabama House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels about voting rights, building relationships across party lines, and new ideas for helping working people get a leg up.
9-yr old Grayson Roberts was born with little sight but great vision and an extraordinary mother, Terica. Listen as they talk about what it means to be “limitless.”
Tanya talks to the Kool And The Gang frontman about being the most sampled group in hip hop; how the music business has changed over the years; music education for kids; and, making champagne.
Diana Grossman of Mallory’s Army Foundation talks to Tanya about her daughter Mallory’s legacy and what we all can learn from it.
Janelle Wood founded Black Mothers Forum to address concerns about how schools were treating Black children. Listen as she and Shannon Hayes talk about the alternative option BMF offers to all children, in the hope of providing a better educational experience.
For 35 years Oliver James was functionally illiterate - even though he had a high school diploma. Listen to what happened when he decided to stop mimicking life and start living it.
Tanya talks to human trafficking expert Dottie Laster about the consequences of sex trafficking and the impact of the Gilgo Beach cases on the families of the victims.
Tanya talks to Paul McEnroe, author of The Barcode: How a Team Created One of the World’s Most Ubiquitous Technologies, about innovation at the dawn of the Computer Age.
They helped secure a $787 million settlement for their client, Dominion Voting Systems, against Fox News. Tanya talks to Megan Meier, Daniel Watkins, Dustin Pusch and Andy Phillips of Meier, Watkins Phillips Pusch LLP about when to sue and when to move on.
Tanya talks to John Ray, attorney for the families of Gilgo Beach victims Shannan Gilbert and Jessica Taylor, about the investigation, recent developments in the case, and additional evidence he’s collected that he hopes the prosecution will consider.
Tanya talks to (her cousin!) Major Marisa Barnes of the Kansas City Police Department about keeping communities safe while building trust; why her career compels her; and the excitement of exposing young people to careers as first responders.
WJBE-Knoxville owner completed his sentence for a tax crime but the FCC is threatening his license anyway. Listen as he talks about why he believes his fight for Knoxville’s only Black station is so important.
While Uvalde remains a community that mourns; heals, and remembers its victims, it is also a community that moved Albert Lopez to drive 140 miles to teach music at Uvalde High School. Listen to the story of how he got a group of unlikely musicians to open up, and how they all brought victory and triumph to Uvalde.
After online sextortionists drove his son Gavin to suicide, South Carolina state senator Brandon Guffey changed the law and created a forum for saving young people through his charity, LessThan3.com (<3). LessThan3 provides resources for targets and potential victims of sextortion and an important reminder too - Tomorrow Needs You.
How can you get the most of A.I.? How do you protect against it going rogue? Greg Mushen, software engineer and former hater of running, used ChatGPT to help him develop a running habit which led to a 26-lb weight loss. Listen as he explains how he made the most of “The Machine” while also guarding against some of its more troubling habits (which include “hallucinating”!)
Then, Tanya speaks to Martinus Evans, who turned a hater’s taunt into the inspiration for a fitness movement.
This special re-release with Ambassador Robert O’Brien, where we talk Russia and China, remains particularly relevant. You should tune in.
Tanya talks to Nathan Firesheets, the engineer who rose to the Disney Challenge, about his hacks for having the most fun in the Magic Kingdom.
Tanya talks to the member of the House Armed Services Committee about Russia’s war on Ukraine; the price of gas; and his new book, Dignity in a Digital Age: Making Tech Work for All of Us.
Tanya talks to Nora Langdon, a champion powerlifter with many titles (!!) about her recipe for a great life.
Tanya talks to nationally syndicated advice columnist Amy Dickinson (“Ask Amy”) about the problems we always seem to have; her mother’s triumph; good apologies; and her “life hacks”. Plus: relationships, blending families, bullies… and more. (Apparently, we can’t stop Asking Amy.)
Tanya talks to the Kool And The Gang frontman about being the most sampled group in hip hop; how the music business has changed over the years; music education for kids; and, making champagne.
Tanya talks to award-winning performer Melba Moore about breaking the mold throughout her life and career and staying ready for new adventures!
Tanya and the author of The Courage of Compassion: A Journey from Judgment to Connection talk about justice, accountability, and why an extra shot of empathy might go a long way everywhere.
An estimated 37 million Americans suffer from chronic kidney disease. Tanya talks to internist Dr. Sherril Rieux and nephrologist Dr. Vincent Anthony about beating this silent killer.
Tanya and Dr. Samuels talk about the lessons we learn from conflict and why it’s important to remember the end game.
Tanya talks to Justice Bolden, the first Black woman to sit on Michigan’s Supreme Court, about the injustice that drew her to a career in law and the passion for fairness that drives her today.
Take a break from the fight and do something kind. Tanya talks to Dr. David Cregg about his study on how good deeds make for better mental health.
Tanya talks to New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal about the bill that would prevent insurrectionists from serving in governments they’ve attempted to overthrow.
Tanya talks to political strategist Atima Omara about polls, why they go so wrong, and ways to give our democracy the constant love it always needs.
Tanya talks to Attorney Josh Tepfer, whose work has resulted in the exoneration of hundreds of wrongfully convicted people.
Tanya talks to the nationally recognized family and matrimonial law attorney about navigating divorce without losing more money —or peace —than necessary.
Tanya talks to the accomplished trial lawyer (and her former Hot Bench colleague) about fighting in court and litigation shenanigans.
Tanya talks to Patrick Elliott, Senior Counsel for the Freedom From Religion Foundation, about his perspective on Coach Joe Kennedy’s Supreme Court fight and what his victory means for advocates of secular liberty.
Tanya talks to Jeremy Dys, a lawyer for Coach Joe Kennedy, about what the coach’s victory before the United States Supreme Court means for advocates of religious freedom.
Tanya talks to author and historian H.W. Brands ("Money Men", "American Colossus") about our fights over what money is, how we came to trust greenbacks (we were forced to!), and what those fights mean for the future of new currencies.
Tanya talks to journalist Sylvan Lane, Finance and Economic Policy Reporter at The Hill about crypto and the FTX fallout.
Tanya talks to the dynamic songwriting duo, now inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, about making music and their many, many hits throughout the years.
What happens when you go to battle against something that is just wrong? Sometimes, not what you think. In this re-release, Tanya talks to the two women who brought down the largest Social Security fraud in history.
Tanya talks to Mallory about the challenges of making baby formula in the US; the formula shortage; judging new parents’ feeding decisions (don’t do this) and providing resources for families in times of crisis.
Tanya talks to the author of All Boys Aren’t Blue and Honorary Chair of Banned Books Week 2022 about telling stories, honoring ancestors, and keeping history alive.
Tanya talks to the author of Yoga: A Love Story about his first novel; the writing process; finding your space in any environment and carving your own path.
Tanya talks to Nora Langdon, a champion powerlifter with many titles (!!) about her recipe for a great life.
Tanya and Loyola University history professor Robert Bucholz geek out over British royal family stuff: the late Queen (a war vet); the new King (we know him but do we?); Nazi sympathizers in the family from generations past (don’t we all have those? No.) and reconciling the past with what comes next.
Tanya talks to the author of (After the Ivory Tower Falls: How College Broke the American Dream and Blew Up Our Politics―and How to Fix It) about higher education and how we can do a better job of fulfilling more American dreams.
Tanya talks to Evan McMullin, Independent candidate for the open U.S. Senate seat in Utah, about what it takes to win in a polarized two-party environment.
This week, we're revisiting one of our favorite episodes from this year: a talk with the first African-American woman to command a Navy ship and the highest ranked woman in Naval history, Admiral Michelle J. Howard. We discuss rescuing a U.S. captain from Somali pirates; her advice to young people who feel disaffected and disengaged; and renaming Confederate monuments.
Tanya talks to the BAFTA Award-winning costume designer of We Are Lady Parts about her work on that very funny show; the art of building wardrobes in music, TV and film; and appreciating the unicorn within.
Tanya talks to Prince George’s County (MD) State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy about incarceration; rehabilitation; keeping communities safe and earned second chances.
This week we're revisiting our talk with Judge Nelson (Tanya's first boss out of law school!) and Acting President of Santa Clara University Lisa Kloppenberg.
Tanya talks to Mallory about the challenges of making baby formula in the US; the formula shortage; judging new parents’ feeding decisions (don’t do this) and providing resources for families in times of crisis.
Tanya talks to the I’m Charlie Walker and Sorry to Bother You actor about the power of telling hometown stories; the drive that arises from navigating external obstacles; and the joy of finding her calling in art.
Tasting History with Max Miller takes viewers on a tasty tour through time. Listen to how Max parlayed pandemic uncertainty into YouTube success.
Tanya talks to David Bianchi, attorney for Danny Santulli and the Santulli family, about the fraternity hazing that left his client blind and unable to walk or speak.
Tanya talks to the CEO and Founder of Think of Us about his personal journey through foster care; redesigning the foster care system; and healing childhood wounds through “radical service.”
Do you care? Should you? Lisa Rein did a story on the penalties the Social Security Administration imposed on those who broke the rules, and an independent watchdog group opened an investigation. When cheaters cheat, do rules still matter? And are all cheaters treated equally? (Taped 6/21/22)
Special Re-release: Tanya talks to New York Times reporter Emily Bazelon and former U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee member Russ Feingold about historical pushback against perceived Court excesses; reforming the Court and how we got to 9; and the heightened politicization of the confirmation process.
Tanya talks to the author of The Devil Never Sleeps: Learning To Live in an Age of Disasters about the January 6 hearings; the ongoing insurrection and the way to defuse it; and about how thinking ahead can help us “fail safer” when bad things happen.
Tanya talks to the young lawyer about why her parents homeschooled her (hint: being cast as “the mulatto slave girl” in school plays played a part); becoming the young Black person to graduate from law school in US history; and the change she wants to make happen in the world.
Sarah Carver and Jennifer Griffith helped bring down the largest Social Security fraud in history - featured in The Big Conn (Apple TV+). What did courage cost them?
Tanya talks to the World Champion Olympic medalist bobsledder and Past President of the Women Sport’s Federation about her formula for winning; double standards; her advice for confronting situations that are just wrong; and what it means to open doors for women in sports.
In person. Online. Tanya talks to the host of Banfield about the shootings in Buffalo, Uvalde and the violence racking the nation.
Tanya talks to Catherine Porter, Toronto Bureau Chief of the New York Times and co-author of The Ransom: The Root of Haiti’s Misery - Reparations to Enslavers (New York Times, 5/20/22).
Tanya talks to the Congresswoman about Roe, the ups and downs of student loan forgiveness, and growing authoritarianism in America.
Tanya talks to the Boston College Professor of Law, Dean’s Distinguished Scholar and former Supreme Court clerk about the leak; what a post-Roe world might look like; and what the Court means today.
Tanya talks to psychologist Dr. Jeff Gardere about sadness v. depression, the pathology of racism, and how to cultivate better mental health habits.
Tanya talks to Judge Nelson (her first boss out of law school!) and Acting President of Santa Clara University Lisa Kloppenberg, about Lisa’s new book on the Judge’s extraordinary life.
How We Fight: Tanya talks to Florida State Representative Anna Eskamani about the Florida math book ban; schools as Culture War battlefields; and how we can better serve students who are clients of the public school system.
Tanya talks to Dr. Quintard Taylor, founder of BlackPast.org, about filling in the gaps of history.
Tanya talks to the former National Security Advisor about Russia’s war on Ukraine; the U.S. response; and the potential implications for China and Taiwan.
Tanya talks to artist, illustrator and entrepreneur Angie Quintanilla Coates about the art of keeping us on the bright side.
Tanya talks to the “economic futurist” about the basics: what is inflation and why do we have it? What is the Fed and what are they up to? And what can we expect in the future?
Tanya talks to the history-making Naval officer about service, supporters and detractors, and how to keep things moving forward.
Tanya talks to the former National Security Advisor about Russia’s war on Ukraine; the U.S. response; and the potential implications for China and Taiwan.
Tanya talks to the member of the House Armed Services Committee about Russia’s war on Ukraine; the price of gas; and his new book, Dignity in a Digital Age: Making Tech Work for All of Us.
Tanya talks to Dr. Quintard Taylor, founder of BlackPast.org, about filling in the gaps of history.
Tanya talks to the 2008 Olympic Silver Medalist about Olympic tragedy and triumph; the 2021 Games; and mental and physical wellness.
Tanya talks to the Kansas City police captain (her cousin!) about training officers and the importance of deescalation; building trust in communities and her own reactions when that trust is breached; and what life is sometimes like for African-American women in law enforcement.
Tanya talks to Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian, Jon Meacham, about the rise of misinformation in the American political mainstream and his new podcast, Fate of Fact.
Tanya talks to Tricia Martineau Wagner, author of various works about African-Americans in the American West, about some of the country’s unsung western heroes. (Did you know Biddy Mason was born enslaved before she won her freedom in court and then became one of L.A.’s largest landowners? More in the episode!)
Yoruba Richen, whose movie “How It Feels To Be Free” (PBS Documentaries Prime Video Channel) tells the story of six African-American icons: Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier, all of whom insisted on owning their artistic spaces on their own terms, and who are the forerunners for the opportunities that so many of us have today.
Tanya talks to Russ Feingold, President of the American Constitution Society and former U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, about picking Supreme Court justices, why ACS believes the Court should be reformed, and the high dramedy that has replaced political decision making.
Tanya talks to the first African-American woman to command a Navy ship and the highest ranked woman in Naval history about her passion for service; rescuing a U.S. captain from Somali pirates; her advice to young people who feel disaffected and disengaged; and renaming Confederate monuments.
At 15, he was sentenced to life in prison without parole. He wrote a brief that helped overturn his conviction and win his release, and now serves as a gubernatorial appointee to the Minnesota State Board of Public Defense. She is a social worker who treats victims of trauma, and who advocates a more nuanced approach to public safety. Tanya talks to Elizer Darris, Co-Executive Director of the Minnesota Freedom Fund and Marika Reese, Executive Director of Ubuntu Care Services.
At 15, he was sentenced to life in prison without parole. He wrote a brief that helped overturn his conviction and win his release, and now serves as a gubernatorial appointee to the Minnesota State Board of Public Defense. She is a social worker who treats victims of trauma, and who advocates a more nuanced approach to public safety. Tanya talks to Elizer Darris, Co-Executive Director of the Minnesota Freedom Fund and Marika Reese, Executive Director of Ubuntu Care Services.
Tanya talks to Washington Post reporter Sarah Ellison about the continuing assault on truth and what fairness requires of journalists.
Tanya takes a look back at 2021 and gives a big thank you to our listeners. Here’s another one: THANK YOU. Happy New Year!
Tanya talks to Lloyd Grove about how the news business has changed; the problem of news deserts; the difference between fairness and objectivity and what’s next for him in his 45-year career after his move to France.
Tanya talks to the CEO of the Center for Heirs Property Preservation about the importance of a will; how family disputes can threaten shared property held without one; and why holding on to the land matters.
Tanya talks to Stephen Battaglio, Staff Writer for the Los Angeles Times, about the rules of journalism; what led to Chris Cuomo’s downfall at CNN; and whether he can find a way back.
Tanya talks to the iconic actor about carving out his own path during his 52 years in the entertainment industry and his advice for young people today.
Tanya talks to her Hot Bench co-host about her new book, From the Kitchen to the Courtroom: Doing Justice to Pasta.
Tanya talks to the author of Major Labels: A History of Popular Music in Seven Genres, about the significance of musical genres; our fandom and our tastes; and some of music’s most powerful moments.
Happy holidays! This week we're re-releasing Tanya's talk with the legendary songwriters and music producers about their new album, Volume One.
Tanya talks to her Hot Bench co-host about his 28-years on the New York bench, his successful efforts to create systems for rehabilitating juvenile offenders, and how his own upbringing inspired a passion for justice and fairness.
Tanya talks to the author of The Rage of Innocence: How America Criminalizes Black Youth about how the fear of Black children creates racial disparities in the criminal justice system; how we can (and must) do better; and why everyone should care.
Tanya talks to Jamila Glass. Tanya talks to the series choreographer of Dear White People and artistic director of the Los Angeles Contemporary Dance Company about communicating through the art of dance, following passions, and kicking imposter syndrome to the curb as often as possible.
Tanya talks to the New York Times bestselling author and self-trained chef about how her approach to food laid the groundwork for her journey to wellness, and why healthy/delicious cuisine is the new black.
Tanya talks to author, educator and wealth justice activist Chloe McKenzie about money and our relationship to it.
This week, we present a rerelease of Tanya's talk with Dr. Sherril Rieux (an actual physician as opposed to the Facebook variety). They discuss the basis for vaccine hesitancy in certain communities and why people should get vaccinated now. Come back next Wednesday for new episodes of The Tanya Acker Show!
Tanya talks to the 2008 Olympic Silver Medalist about Olympic tragedy and triumph; the 2021 Games; and mental and physical wellness.
Tanya talks to Washington Post reporter DeNeen L. Brown about her film, Tulsa: The Fire and the Forgotten; her reporting about the Black Wall Street massacre that led to the film; and why telling true stories still matters.
Tanya talks to the legendary songwriters and music producers about their new album, Volume One.
Tanya talks to Seth David Radwell, author of American Schism: How the Two Enlightenments Hold the Secret to Healing Our Nation, about the disunity that is a part of the nation’s DNA and how to keep the breach from breaking us apart.
Tanya talks to Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian, Jon Meacham, about the rise of misinformation in the American political mainstream and his new podcast, Fate of Fact.
Tanya talks to Moe Vela about prospects for bipartisanship; how to move forward when times are dark; and growing American Dreams on his new show, "Unicorn Hunters."
Tanya talks to Dr. Sherril Rieux (an actual physician as opposed to the Facebook variety) about the basis for vaccine hesitancy in certain communities and why people should get vaccinated now
Tanya talks to Linda and George Meyers about turning their passion for fun and travel into their business, Cook in Tuscany.
Tanya talks to the 25-yr Judge Judy veteran and Hot Bench veteran about grilling litigants when the grilling is over, and how Texans pay it forward.
Tanya talks Cancel Culture with Robby Soave, a senior editor at Reason. Who gets cancelled and when do we care? Do they deserve it and who gets forgiven? Is forgiveness even possible in the age of the Internet?
Yoruba Richen, whose movie “How It Feels To Be Free” (PBS Documentaries Prime Video Channel) tells the story of six African-American icons: Lena Horne, Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson and Pam Grier, all of whom insisted on owning their artistic spaces on their own terms, and who are the forerunners for the opportunities that so many of us have today.
Tanya talks to Dr. Nzinga Harrison, host of the In Recovery podcast and Co-Founder of Eleanor Health, about staying mentally healthy when the world seems to be going nuts.
Freedom is about the ability to move. In this episode, Tanya talks to Dr. Gretchen Sorin about how African-Americans dismantled barriers to their freedom of movement, and created their own pathways to realizing the American Dream.
Tanya interviews the Emmy-winning director of the Netflix documentary, Crack: Cocaine, Corruption and Conspiracy, about his compelling reexamination of the 1980’s epidemic.
Tanya talks to Peter Schuck, Simeon E. Baldwin Professor Emeritus of Law at Yale University and nationally renowned legal scholar, about the many constitutional dramas we’ve just lived.
Tanya talks to National Security Analyst and former Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate Juliette Kayyem about domestic terrorism, the Biden/Harris Inauguration, and our shared path forward.
Tanya talks to Emily Bazelon, staff writer for The New York Times Magazine and co-host of the Slate Political Gabfest, about the Supreme Court, the Trump Lawsuits and free speech.
Tanya talks to the hosts of Pod Is A Woman about the attack on the Capitol by domestic terrorists, the atmosphere that led up to it, and where we go from here.
Tanya talks to Alabama Representatives Mike Ball (R) and Anthony Daniels (D) about compromise in the Age of Anger; the Georgia elections; and what they think their respective parties must do.
Tanya Talks to Sheriff-Elect Charmaine McGuffey, the first woman and the first openly LGBTQ sheriff in Hamilton County, Ohio.
Tanya talks to Ann Druyan about space, love, facts, and voting. Plus, how to come back when people laugh at you for being smart and curious. And also, VOTE.
Tanya talks to Josh Mankiewicz about Dateline’s success; respecting the stories of crime victims; and how the news business has changed over the past 45 years.
In Part 3 of our interview with David Kennerly, Tanya talks to the Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer about his experiences with the nation’s political leaders. To watch our video interview, accompanied by David's photography, visit www.tanyaackershow.com.
In Part 2, Tanya talks to the Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer about his experiences as a wartime photographer in Vietnam, a conflict that provoked bitter division among Americans.
Tanya talks to Suffolk County DA Rachael Rollins about justice, holding the system accountable, rejecting false choices, and keeping communities safe.
In Part 1, Tanya talks to Pulitzer Prize-winning Photographer David Kennerly about some of the key moments in American cultural and political history that he has captured on camera.
My new book, “Make Your Case: Finding Your Win in Civil Court”, is now available wherever you do your reading! For more visit: www.tanyaackershow.com
Tanya talks to Javier Alberto Botero, co-director and lead producer of the new HBO film about Russian interference in the 2016 election and its implications for 2020.
Tanya talks to Philip Felgner, Ph.D, Director of the Vaccine Research and Development Center at the University of California Irvine.
Tanya talks to David Smick about his new film Stars and Strife, available on Starz, which explores America’s culture of hate.
Tanya talks to Nick Turner, President of the Vera Institute of Justice, about public safety and criminal justice reform.
Tanya talks to Mo’Kelly, host of the 3-time award-winning Mo’Kelly Show (heard on the #1 news/talk station in America, KFI AM 640 in Los Angeles and also on iHeartRadio) about racism, gaslighting, the dangers of a fact-free world and how to carry on and win when someone comes at you sideways.
Tanya talks to Heather Gerken, Dean and Sol & Lillian Goldman Professor of Law at Yale Law School, about students making change; what "rule of law" means; and how vampires make for happy families. http://knit.audio/podcast-advertising (via Knit)
From deceased billionaire Kirk Kerkorian's child support battle, to Roman Polanski's travails with the government, to a knock down, drag out fight over Winnie-the-Pooh, Tanya talks to three power lawyers about how bad court can get and how they responded when the other side didn't play fairly. With Attorneys Paul Derby, Chad Hummel and Michael Trope.
Tanya talks to Sarah Van Patten, principal dancer with the San Francisco ballet, whose pregnancy didn't keep her from lighting up the stage and living her art.
Join Tanya for a conversation with Officer Petri Hawkins Byrd, bailiff on the three-time Emmy Award-winning Judge Judy program. Tanya and Officer Byrd talk about his path to working with Judge Judy; his commitment to working with kids and building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the African-American community; and some little-known historical heroes who can motivate and inspire us all.
Tanya speaks to Alabama House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, the youngest and first African-American House Minority Leader in Alabama history. Representative Daniels discusses the backstory behind some of our political theatrics; why we should spend more money educating kids instead of jailing them; and how to keep American democracy healthy.
Tanya speaks with her former professor and now Simeon E. Baldwin Professor of Law Emeritus at Yale University, Peter H. Schuck, regarding President Trump's use of The National Emergency Act of 1976 in an attempt to fund a border wall.