Beta: Recent Episodes
Wisconsin Public Radio
"BETA" features playful and provocative profiles of the people and works changing our world through arts, pop culture and technology. The program is hosted by Doug Gordon and airs Saturdays at 9 a.m. on the NPR News & Classical Network and 11 a.m. on The Ideas Network.
This week on "BETA,"we’ll chat with the one and only Charlie Berens and find out what so funny about bein’ from Wisconsin.Then we’ll chat with Green Bay’s own Patrick Summerville about his work on the HBO series Station 11.And we'll talk with Eau Claire native Phil Cook about how he and birds make music together on his album Appalachia Borealis.
This week on BETA, comedian Demetri Martin deconstructs his Netflix special. Also, filmmaker Priyanka Mattoo tells all in her memoir, “Bird Milk & Mosquito Bones.” And Alexandra Tanner on her Seinfeldian debut novel, “Worry.”
We're revisiting conversations with some of our favorite authors. Ottessa Moshfegh will talk with us about her novel "My Year of Rest and Relaxation," and Megan Abbott will discuss writing for HBO's "The Deuce" and her novel, "Give Me Your Hand." Also, Karen Russell joins us to talk about her beautifully written book, The Antidote.
Noah Hawley, creator of the FX series, “Fargo” gives us the true story about adapting a masterpiece. Also, comedian Hari Kondabolu pulls the curtain back on his career and graphic […]
This week on "BETA," we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite TV and film personalities. Bob Odenkirk will join us to talk about his well-known character, Saul Goodman. And we’ll explore the creative and personal life of film director David Lynch with biographer Christine McKenna. Also, we’ll spend some time with Black Mirror creator Charlie Brooker.
The one and only Shea Serrano talks about hip-hop…and other things. Also, writer and editor Laurie Woolever gives us an up-close and personal look at the life and career of […]
Today on BETA we’ll look back at some of our favorite music conversations featuring Musician Nick Lowe on his latest record, Producer and author Joe Boyd dives into world music with his book, “And The Roots of Rhythm Remain.” And Music critic Steven Hyden considers the cultural significance of Radiohead’s 2000 album, Kid A.
Dwayne Kennedy on his socially piercing, provocative comedy. Author Susan Napier tells us how animator Hayao Miyazaki creates his magical cinematic universes. And music critic Steven Hyden on how Radiohead’s […]
Susan Morrison joins us to discuss her definitive biography of SNL creator Lorne Michaels.Author Leah Kardos tells us why Kate Bush’s album, “Hounds of Love,” is as fresh as ever 40 years after its release.Also, Maggie Su on her very funny and very moving debut novel,“Blob: A Love Story.”
This week on "BETA," ...Master of horror, Clay McLeod Chapman joins us to discuss his latest novel, “Wake Up and Open Your Eyes.”And musician Paul de Jong talks to us about his captivating found sound music.Also, MacArthur Genius Karen Russell sits down with us to talk her about her incredible novel, “The Antidote,”
This week on “BETA,” comedian Eugene Mirman joins us to talk about “Bob’s Burgers” and more. Also, Booker Prize nominee, Yael van der Wouden, on her debut novel, “The Safekeep.” […]
This week on BETA, hip-hop historian Nadirah Simmons highlights the game-changing ladies that made history in pop music. And one of crime fiction's greatest writers, George Pelecanos, talks aout his most autobiographical work yet. And journalist Daniel de Visé on the history of The Blues Brothers.
This week on "BETA," Simon Rich joins us to talk about his short story collection, "Glory Days." Helen Phillips explores Artificial Intelligence in her suspenseful novel, "Hum." And author Chris Nashawaty revisits the epic summer of 1982 - when Star Wars and Sci-Fi Fever hit it's peak.
This week on "BETA," actor and comedian Zach Woods on his pitch-perfect NPR parody, “In the Know.” Also, comedian Steph Tolev on being filthy and funny. And Scott Guild on his multimedia novel, "Plastic."
This week on "BETA," Rachel Kushner returns to discuss her latest novel, "Creation Lake." Documentary director Sam Green talks about his fascinating film "32 Sounds: Exploring the Audio World." And Carrie Courogen on her biography of one of the greatest comic geniuses of all time, Elaine May.
This week on "BETA," Comedian Moshe Kasher on being a "Subculture Vulture." Also, Sloane Crosley explores love, loss and grief. And "There There" author Tommy Orange on his long-awaited followup, "Wandering Stars."
This week on BETA, David Schurmann discusses his documentary My Penguin Friend. Award-winning music journalist Erin Osmon talks with us about music from the Midwest. Also, we'll hear from horror writer Paul Tremblay on his new book, Horror Movie.
Legendary actor Billy Dee Williams talks about his lifetime in the arts and his landmark roles (including his famous turn as Lando in "Star Wars"). Also, author M.D. Dunn on the life and career of Canadian singer/songwriter Bruce Cockburn. And Ed Park talks about his mind-bending novel, “Same Bed Different Dreams.”
This week on "BETA," award-winning filmmaker and TV creator Ed Zwick on his fortysomething years in Hollywood. Plus, comedian Laurie Kilmartin on her new special and actor Priya Guns on her new novel, “Your Driver is Waiting.”
This week on "BETA," comedian Paul Scheer discusses his candid memoir, "Joyful Recollections of Trauma". Author Mateo Askaripour on his sophomore novel "The Big Departure. Also, biographer James Kaplan tells us how three musical geniuses led by Miles Davis created the landmark album "Kind of Blue.
Singer/songwriter Jann Arden talks about her hit Canadian TV series, ‘Jann.’ Also, ‘Newhart’ actress Julia Duffy joins us to discuss her very fulfilling career. And music writer John Kruth sheds […]
Film critic and broadcaster Hanna Flint joins us to talk about her cinematic memoir, “Strong Female Character.” Also, film and television critic Matt Zoller Seitz and fellow film critic Walter […]
This week on "BETA," Milwaukee chef Dan Jacobs shares his experience making it to the finals of Top Chef. Actor Griffin Dunne tells of his childhood experience in a Hollywood family and why he wanted to write his memoir, The Friday Afternoon Club. Author Kaliane Bradley talks about her debut novel and her unique twist on time travel.
Theater critic Alexis Soloski on her gripping psychological suspense novel, “Here in the Dark.” Also, documentary producer Denny Tedesco joins us to talk about his latest film, “Immediate Family.” And film critic Katharine Coldiron on why bad movies matter.
Comedian and host Scott Aukerman joins us to talk about turning his hilarious podcast, “Comedy Bang! Bang!” into a book. Also, author Sam Wasson is our guide as we explore “The […]
This week on BETA, guitarist Chris Stein reflects on his pivotal role as a founding member of the rock band Blondie. Also, film writer Ian Nathan takes us on a post-apocalyptic tour of the Mad Max Cinematic Universe. And novelist Holly Wilson introduces us to one of the most intriguing female characters you’ll ever meet.
Actor and environmentalist Ed Begley Jr. talks about his fascinating memoir. Christine Coulson on her novel, “One Woman Show.” It’s told completely through art museum plaques. And author Jeremy Arnold […]
This week on BETA, comedian Demetri Martin deconstructs his Netflix special. Also, filmmaker Priyanka Mattoo tells all in her memoir, “Bird Milk & Mosquito Bones.” And Alexandra Tanner on her Seinfeldian debut novel, “Worry.”
Comedian, actor, and Kid in the Hall Dave Foley talks about his “Fargo” character, Danish Graves. Author Jesmyn Ward on her novel, ‘Let Us Descend.’ And ‘How to Become a […]
This week on “BETA,” film critic Glenn Kenny takes us behind the scenes of the 1983 gangster film, “Scarface.” Also, tragedienne, Julia Masli, is ready to solve problems. And author […]
This week on "BETA," we are joined by Paul W. Downs and Lucia Aniello, the co-creators of the Max original series, “Hacks.” Also, Jahmal Mayfield joins us to talk about his debut noir novel, “Smoke Kings.” And folk singer Aoife O’Donovan pays tribute to Wisconsin suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt on her album, “All My Friends.”
Actor Jeff Daniels talks about his audio memoir, ‘Alive and Well Enough.’ Also, film critic Matt Singer on how Siskel and Ebert reinvented film criticism. And rock critic Rob Harvilla […]
This week on "BETA," award-winning actor and director David Duchovny on learning from failure. Plus, a look at the long-awaited solo album from music legend T Bone Burnett and a crash course on writing from author, Steve Almond.
Henry Winkler talks about being the Fonz, his connection to Milwaukee and HBO’s ‘Barry.’ Also, actress Illeana Douglas on her love affair with Connecticut movies. And Mark Mothersbaugh on how DEVO predicted de-evolution fifty years ago.
Comedian Gary Gulman on what it was like growing up awkward in the ‘80s. TV and movie critic Matt Zoller Seitz takes us behind the scenes of Wes Anderson’s 2021 film, “The French Dispatch.” And artist Steacy Easton makes the case for why country singer Tammy Wynette matters.
Comedian Greg Proops talks about his hilarious album, ‘French Drug Deal.’ Also, comedian and musician Reggie Watts shares his memories of growing up in his memoir, ‘Great Falls, Montana.’ And Myriam Gurba on her thrilling, no-holds-barred essay collection, ‘Creep.’
This week on BETA, hip-hop historian Nadirah Simmons highlights the game-changing ladies that made history in pop music. And one of crime fiction's greatest writers, George Pelecanos, talks aout his most autobiographical work yet. And journalist Daniel de Visé on the history of The Blues Brothers.
Comedian Aparna Nancherla talks about her battle with impostor syndrome. Also, “Telemarketers” director Sam Lipman-Stern gives us the lowdown on the shady side of the business. And Daniel Hornsby on his scathing Silicon Valley novel, 'Sucker.'
This week on "BETA," actor and comedian Zach Woods on his pitch-perfect NPR parody, “In the Know.” Also, comedian Steph Tolev on being filthy and funny. And Scott Guild on his multimedia novel, "Plastic."
Sarah Rose Etter talks about her surreal novel, ‘Ripe.’ Also, visual artist Kristine Potter shares the haunting reality behind murder ballads. And film critic Walter Chaw returns for another installment of ‘Walter on Walter.’ Today, he talks about Walter Hill’s film, ’48 Hours.’
This week on "BETA," Comedian Moshe Kasher on being a "Subculture Vulture." Also, Sloane Crosley explores love, loss and grief. And "There There" author Tommy Orange on his long-awaited followup, "Wandering Stars."
Greg Marshall talks about his memoir, 'Leg: The Story of a Limb and the Boy Who Grew From It.' Also, novelist Ben Purkert asks the question, 'What do our jobs do to our souls?' And we look at Stephen King films with 'King on Screen' director, Daphné Baiwir.
Legendary actor Billy Dee Williams talks about his lifetime in the arts and his landmark roles (including his famous turn as Lando in "Star Wars"). Also, author M.D. Dunn on the life and career of Canadian singer/songwriter Bruce Cockburn. And Ed Park talks about his mind-bending novel, “Same Bed Different Dreams.”
Greg Marshall talks about his memoir, 'Leg: The Story of a Limb and the Boy Who Grew From It.' Also, novelist Ben Purkert asks the question, 'What do our jobs do to our souls?' And we look at Stephen King films with 'King on Screen' director, Daphné Baiwir.
Mike Mills of R.E.M. takes us out to the ball game with his concept supergroup, The Baseball Project. Also, Josh Mills shares the story of one of the most innovative television comedians ever – the one and only Ernie Kovacs. And Alex Pappademas takes us inside the brilliant minds of Steely Dan.
Rachel Cochran talks about her Southern noir novel, “The Gulf.” Also, Aisha Harris, cohost of NPR’s 'Pop Culture Happy Hour,' joins us to discuss her book, 'Wannabe.' And director Alexandre Philippe on his documentary, 'Lynch/Oz.' It explores the connections between David Lynch’s films and 'The Wizard of Oz.'
TCM's "Czar of Noir" Eddie Muller has got you covered. His new book "Noir Bar" features cocktail recipes and trivia inspired by over 50 of your favorite noirs. Also, producer Warren Zanes tells us everything we wanted to know about Bruce Springsteen's "Nebraska." And the award-winning crime fiction author S. A. Cosby returns to talk about his novel, “All the Sinners Bleed.” It's about the trouble brewing in a rural Virginia town that just elected its first Black sheriff.
The innovative stand-up comedian Steven Wright talks about his debut novel, 'Harold.' And screenwriter/actor Guinevere Turner revisits her childhood as a member of the Lyman Family cult. Also, novelist Jonathan Carroll on his latest novel, 'Mr. Breakfast.'
Comedian Bobcat Goldthwait talks about his first stand-up album in 12 years. Also, the award-winning author Megan Abbott on her thriller, "Beware the Woman." And author Nick de Semlyen takes us behind the scenes of Hollywood's action movie era.
Best-selling author Shea Serrano joins us to talk about his latest project – “Primo.” Also, Dennis Lehane talks about his novel, “Small Mercies.” It's set against the Boston busing crisis of 1974. And Walter Chaw looks at the 1979 gangland film, "The Warriors."
Barista and mixologist Ryan Castelaz on how he’s reinventing the coffee experience. Also, writer Claire Dederer contemplates whether it's possible to hate the artist but still love the art. And the 'New York Times' best-selling author Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah on his debut novel, 'Chain-Gang All-Stars.'
Comedian Jena Friedman on her hilarious and ironically named essay collection, “Not Funny.” And, The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz reveals what it’s like to be the last remaining member of the iconic band. Also, Scott McCaughey, the man of many bands, including R.E.M., stops by to talk about his prolific career.
Bangles co-founder, Susanna Hoffs, joins us to talk about writing her debut novel and recording a new album. Also, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka intrudes on us to tell us about her high-energy and provocative HBO standup special. And author Kevin Wilson on his novel, 'Now is Not the Time to Panic.'
Singer/songwriter Jann Arden talks about her hit Canadian TV series, 'Jann.' Also, 'Newhart' actress Julia Duffy joins us to discuss her very fulfilling career. And music writer John Kruth sheds light on Pink Floyd’s masterpiece, 'The Dark Side of the Moon.'
Film critic and broadcaster Hanna Flint joins us to talk about her cinematic memoir, “Strong Female Character." Also, film and television critic Matt Zoller Seitz and fellow film critic Walter Chaw share the legacy behind David Milch’s groundbreaking HBO series, “Deadwood.” And Vancouver punk rock pioneer John Armstrong on the Modernettes.
Executive Producer Chad Mumm takes us behind the scenes of the high-pressure lives of PGA golfers in his compelling Netflix docuseries, 'Full Swing.' And Gabrielle Zevin talks about her captivating, best-selling novel, 'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow.' Also, author Jeff Guinn on the tragic saga of Waco.
Filmmaker Kyle Edward Ball talks about his indie viral horror film, 'Skinamarink.' Also, cartoonist Barbara Brandon-Croft. Her pioneering work made her the first Black woman syndicated cartoonist in America. And the Edgar Award-winning crime novelist Jordan Harper on his L.A. crime novel, 'Everybody Knows.'
Indie comedian Brian Posehn joins us to discuss his latest comedy special, “Posehna Non Grata.” Also, Shawn Cosby on his recently republished debut novel, “My Darkest Prayer.” And independent filmmaker Nina Menkes on her eye-opening documentary, “Brainwashed: Sex-Camera-Power."
Emmy-winning TV writer and producer Bill Oakley joins us to talk about his latest project, “Space: 1969,” starring Natasha Lyonne. Also, Francesca T. Royster on the history of Black country music. And Tracy Dawson shares the untold history of women who stuck it to the man…by dressing as men.
Comedian Rich Hall talks about a lifetime of groundbreaking comedy. Filmmaker Julie Seabaugh on her Vice TV documentary, “Too Soon: Comedy After 9/11.” And acclaimed film critic Ian Nathan takes us inside the time-bending films of director Christopher Nolan.
The Sopranos” actor Michael Imperioli on his debut novel which features the iconic rock star Lou Reed. Also, director Andrew Renzi on the Netflix docuseries, 'Pepsi, Where’s My Jet?' And Wisconsin’s Wendy Wimmer on her short story collection, 'Entry Level.'
Comedian Jena Friedman on her Peacock comedy special, “Ladykiller.” Also, author Brian J. Kramp on the history of the legendary Midwest band Cheap Trick. And Milwaukee's Patrick McGilligan on Mel Brooks' Western satire, "Blazing Saddles."
Short story master George Saunders talks about his latest collection, “Liberation Day.” Comedian Kevin Nealon on creating caricatures. And Alyse Knorr tells us about the lasting legacy of the N64 classic “GoldenEye 007"
Magician Penn Jillette talks about his novel, “Random." It's about a young man who uses his lucky dice to make his life decisions. Also, novelist Ling Ma on her debut collection of short stories, “Bliss Montage." And music journalist Jim Ruland tells us how the indie label SST Records paved the way for punk rock.
Comedian Sheng Wang on his Netflix special, “Sweet and Juicy." Also, Leyna Krow talks about her debut novel, “Fire Season,” inspired by the Spokane fire of 1889. And music critic Steven Hyden on how Pearl Jam captured the attention of Generation X.
Comedian Frankie Quiñones talks about his hilarious comedy series, 'This Fool.' Also, novelist Sandra Newman, author of 'The Men,' takes us inside a world in which all males have suddenly disappeared. And writer Steve Almond shares his BETA thought experiment of a Marxist Football League.
Charles Yu tackles racism through the lens of a fictional cop show in his novel, "Interior Chinatown." Also, musician/author Will Birch gives us the lowdown on one of England's greatest songwriters, Nick Lowe. And the doctor will see you now -- Jonathan Katz on the return of his professional therapist character, Dr. Katz
Comedian Cristela Alonzo stays true to herself in her Netflix special, “Middle Classy.” Also, Sloane Crosley on her latest novel, “Cult Classic.” And Caryn Rose tells us about the life and legacy of the punk poet, Patti Smith.
Jena Friedman on combining comedy with journalism in her AMC+ true-crime series, “Indefensible." Also, film critic Adam Nayman talks about one of today's most compelling directors, David Fincher. And Wisconsin native Charles L. Hughes on rapper Bushwick Bill.
Director James Burrows joins us to talk about making America laugh with sitcoms like "Cheers" and “Will & Grace.” Also, "Election" author Tom Perrotta on revisiting his overly ambitious protagonist, Tracy Flick. And writer Abbey Bender on the rise and fall and allure of the erotic thriller.
"Manitowoc Minute" mastermind Charlie Berens teaches us how to become Midwest nice! Also, South Milwaukee comedian Jackie Kashian on making people laugh...for more than 35 years. And journalist James Andrew Miller on how HBO transformed television.
Today, comedian Josh Gondelman joins us to talk about his debut stand-up special, 'People Pleaser.' Also, Chelsea Bieker on her short-story collection, 'Heartbroke.' And Jon Mooallem on his funny, smart and perceptive essay collection, 'Serious Face.'
The legendary rocker Stevie Van Zandt talks about making music with Bruce Springsteen and acting on "The Sopranos." Also, music journalist Erin Osmon on the great folk singer/songwriter John Prine. And film critic Ian Nathan on the visionary director, Guillermo del Toro.
Comedian Julie Nolke on her YouTube success and her audition for 'Saturday Night Live.' Also, Ringer podcast host, Van Lathan, shares raw truths from his memoir, “Fat, Crazy and Tired.” And Ben Wardle on his biography about the founder of the British new wave band, Talk Talk – Mark Hollis.
The one and only Shea Serrano talks about hip-hop...and other things. Also, writer and editor Laurie Woolever gives us an up-close and personal look at the life and career of Anthony Bourdain. And author Alix Ohlin on her latest short-story collection.
Michelle Zauner on her heartbreaking debut memoir, “Crying in H Mart.” And George Carlin’s American Dream’ director, Michael Bonfiglio takes us through the life and career of a stand-up comedy titan. Also, Dan Chaon on his latest novel, “Sleepwalk,” a rollicking road trip through America in the near future. . Also, Dan Chaon on his latest novel, “Sleepwalk,” a rollicking road trip through America in the near future.
Cassandra Peterson shows us the woman behind the Queen of Halloween, Elvira! Also, documentary filmmaker Kier-La Janisse on the history of folk horror. And, find out what makes horror-comedy "Shaun of the Dead" a cult classic!
Author T.C. Boyle gives voice to the chimps in his novel, “Talk to Me.” Also, U.S. poet laureate Joy Harjo joins us to shed a light on her process. And the co-founder of the Lounge Lizards, John Lurie, tells us how he did things his way in downtown New York during the 1980s.
Today, director John Waters, joins us to discuss his debut novel, 'Liarmouth.' Also, Scott Thompson and Dave Foley of The Kids in the Hall stop by to talk about their hilarious reunion series for Amazon Prime. And author Co de Kloet talks about his unexpected friendship with the one and only Frank Zappa.
Renaissance man Ishmael Reed reflects on his prolific career. Also, crime maestro Megan Abbott gets to the "pointe" about her novel, "The Turnout," which is set in the competitive world of ballet. And author/artist Kristen Radtke on the deep impacts of loneliness in America.
Emily Saint John Mandel on her latest novel, 'Sea of Tranquility,' which spans almost 500 years. Also, documentary director Gorman Bechard shares the untold story of former Wilco musician Jay Bennett. And Steve Almond talks about his debut novel, 'All the Secrets of the World.'
In this member drive edition of the show, we revisit interviews with filmmaker Lisa D'Apolito, journalist Matt Taibbi, and award-winning emcee Shad Kabango.
Actor and director Sarah Polley joins us to discuss her debut book, 'Run Towards the Danger.' Also, showrunner George Pelecanos on the HBO mini-series, 'We Own This City.' And Elaine Hsieh Chou talks about her novel, 'Disorientation.'
The former “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” writer Jen Spyra talks about her debut short-story collection. Also, Sandi Tan on her acclaimed documentary, “Shirkers,” and her latest novel, “Lurkers.” And director David Prior joins us to discuss the challenges he faced making his eerie horror film, "The Empty Man."
Comedian Dana Gould gives the 'Planet of the Apes' character Doctor Zaius his own talk show. Also, writer Erika Krouse on how her face launched her career as a private eye. And critic Keith Phipps guides us through the 40-year career of actor Nicolas Cage.
Author Glenn Frankel on the groundbreaking movie, "Midnight Cowboy." Also, author and filmmaker Nancy Jo Sales reveals the darker side of dating apps. Plus comedian Tom Scharpling on his touching memoir and a look at the indie film maestro Jim Jarmusch.
Singer/songwriter Anaïs Mitchell talks about her first solo album in a decade. Also, the Mountain Goats' frontman John Darnielle on his haunting novel, 'Devil House.' And Jeff Yang looks back at the last thirty years of Asian American pop culture. Also, the Mountain Goats’ frontman John Darnielle on his haunting novel, 'Devil House.' And Jeff Yang looks back at the last 30 years of Asian American pop culture.
Comedian Paula Poundstone on how she coped with the COVID pandemic and why she loves visiting Wisconsin. Also, author Ron Friedman shares the secret to success – reverse engineering. And Deadpool creator Fabian Nicieza pivots from comic books to fiction with his murder mystery, “Suburban Dicks.”
Jean Hanff Korelitz on her propulsive page-turner, "The Plot." Also, comedian Maggie Maye talks about her journey from Texas to Los Angeles. And the one and only Robert McKee explains why we're seeing more complicated characters on page, on stage and on screen.
Bob Odenkirk talks about his incredible journey from Mr. Show to Saul Goodman. Also, Dana Schwartz returns to dish on her historical novel, “Anatomy,” about the shady side of medicine during the 1800s. And Jason Mott on his National Book Award-winning novel, “Hell of a Book.”
Actor and comedian Thomas Lennon on the movie, 'Reno 911!: The Hunt for QAnon.' Also, author Chuck Klosterman revisits grunge, Tarantino, and Zima in 'The Nineties.' And Stephen Satterfield talks about the Netflix docu-series, 'High on the Hog.'
Shawn Cosby talks about his provocative and propulsive crime novel, “Razorblade Tears.” Also, author Tananarive Due revisits her debut horror novel, “The Between.” And we explore the work of filmmakers Gordon Parks and Melvin Van Peebles.
The King of the Rant, comedian Lewis Black, tells us about his special, “Thank you for Risking Your Life.” Also, comedy wunderkind, Michael Schur, the creator of “The Good Place." And author Gwen Kirby on her stories about women who are not going to take it anymore.
Actor Andrew McCarthy on being a member of the “Brat Pack.” Also, Zakiya Dalila Harris talks about her captivating debut novel, “The Other Black Girl.” And author Tori Telfer gives us the lowdown on con women.
Showrunner Patrick Somerville on the HBO pandemic saga, 'Station Eleven.' Also, 'Fargo' creator Noah Hawley on his novel, 'Anthem.' And author Heidi Greco on the staying power of the movie, 'Harold and Maude.'
Comedian Laurie Kilmartin joins us to talk about her latest album, “Corset.” Also, best-selling author Jami Attenberg pivots from fiction to non-fiction with her intimate memoir. And author Peter Mills on the Monkees’ box-office flop, “Head,” which could be their greatest achievement.
Director Joshua Rofé on the suspenseful Hulu docuseries, “Sasquatch.” Also, legendary musician Richard Thompson shares memories that shaped his career. And the award-winning, acclaimed novelist Rachel Kushner talks about her essay collection, "The Hard Crowd."
Documentary filmmaker Erin Lee Carr reflects on the loss of her father, the celebrated journalist David Carr. And Onalaska’s own Mark Proksch on his accidental path to stardom. Also, guitarist and composer Steve Tibbetts on how exploring the world influences his music.
"Fall" novelist Neal Stephenson on the digital afterlife. Also, DJ Ankur Malhotra is trying to preserve Indian folk music one vinyl press at a time, and blogger Heather Armstrong shares the lengths she went to battle depression. Plus, a look at how the funeral industry is breathing new life into memorials.
Jena Friedman on combining comedy with journalism in her AMC+ true-crime series, “Indefensible." Also, film critic Adam Nayman talks about one of today's most compelling directors, David Fincher. And Wisconsin native Charles L. Hughes on rapper Bushwick Bill.