Fresh Air

Best Of: Rita Moreno / Daisy Hernández Jun 12, 2021

Rita Moreno moved to the U.S. mainland from Puerto Rico as a child. She says her 'West Side Story' role is "the only part I ever remember where I represented Hispanics in a dignified and positive way." Moreno is an EGOT, a winner of an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony.
Film critic Justin Chang reviews the film adaptation of the musical 'In the Heights.'
Also, we'll talk with Daisy Hernández, author of 'The Kissing Bug: The True Story of a Family, an Insect and a Nation's Neglect of a Deadly Disease.' It's part medical history, part personal history about growing in an immigrant family, including her aunt who had the disease.

Catching Up With Stephen Colbert / Remembering Clarence Williams III Jun 11, 2021

We remember actor Clarence Williams III, best known for playing Linc Hayes, one of three hippie undercover cops on the TV series 'The Mod Squad' from 1968 to 1973.
Also, Stephen Colbert begins taping the 'The Late Show' in front of a live audience again on Monday. We hear his interview with Terry about doing the show from home taping during the pandemic. "I got into show business in a way to not be alone. Like a lot of comedians, I'm a bit of a broken toy," Colbert says.
And Justin Chang reviews the new film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical 'In the Heights.'

Inside The Ransomware Industry Jun 10, 2021

New York Times investigative reporter Michael Schwirtz gained access to the dashboard of DarkSide, a ransomware operation that's pulled in more than $90 million since it began last August. Schwirtz talks about DarkSide's business model, its customer support system to help the hackers it enables, and help the victims learn how to use Bitcoin to pay the ransom.

The Space Race & The Dangerous Early Days Of NASA Jun 09, 2021

On the morning of Feb. 20, 1962, about 100,000 spectators gathered in Cape Canaveral, Fla., to witness the launch of the Friendship 7, the United States' first mission to put an astronaut in orbit around the Earth. Historian Jeff Shesol says there was real fear that astronaut John Glenn wouldn't survive the day. We talk with Shesol about the early days of NASA, and how the Cold War pushed the U.S. space program to its limits. His book is 'Mercury Rising.'
David Bianculli reviews the Disney+ series 'Loki' starring Tom Hiddleston.

Race, Sexuality & The Deadly 'Kissing Bug' Jun 08, 2021

When Daisy Hernández was 5, her aunt in Colombia came down with a mysterious illness that caused her large intestine to swell. Hernandez details her aunt's story — and her own — in a new memoir.

Rita Moreno Jun 07, 2021

Moreno moved to the U.S. mainland from Puerto Rico as a child. She says her 'West Side Story' role is "the only part I ever remember where I represented Hispanics in a dignified and positive way." We talk about some of the racism and sexism she experienced in Hollywood, her relationship with Marlon Brando, and why she's happier than ever now at 89 years old. Moreno is an EGOT, a winner of an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony.

Best Of: Exonerated 5 Member / Reckoning With The Legacy Of Slavery Jun 05, 2021

In 1990, Yusef Salaam was one of the five boys wrongly convicted in the so-called Central Park jogger case. Salaam spent nearly seven years behind bars and wasn't exonerated until 2002, when a serial rapist confessed to the crime. Salaam tells his story in his memoir 'Better, Not Bitter.'
Also, Kevin Whitehead reviews 'Black to the Future' by Shabaka Hutchings and the Sons of Kemet.
In 'How the Word is Passed,' writer and poet Clint Smith visits eight places central to the history of slavery in America, including Thomas Jefferson's Monticello plantation and Louisiana's Angola prison. "This history that we are told was so long ago wasn't, in fact, that long ago at all," he says.

Producing The Philly Sound Jun 04, 2021

We hear from songwriter, arranger and producer Thom Bell. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Philadelphia International Records. Among the songs he arranged were Joe Simon's "Drowning in the Sea of Love," and "Back Stabbers" by The O'Jays. Bell is in the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He also wrote and arranged for The Stylistics, The Spinners, and The Delfonics. He spoke with Terry Gross in 2006.
Also, Justin Chang reviews the horror movie 'A Quiet Place Part II,' the sequel to John Krasinski's 2018 film.

How Russia Used An Overt Agent To Attack Biden In The 2020 Election Jun 03, 2021

'Time' investigative correspondent Simon Shuster says that Andriy Derkach, a seven-term member of the Ukrainian parliament, and widely believed to be a Russian agent, gave misleading information to Rudy Giuliani to discredit Biden during the 2020 campaign. Derkach and Giuliani are both under investigation by federal prosecutors in the U.S.

The Racist Roots Of The 2nd Amendment Jun 02, 2021

Carol Anderson says the Second Amendment was designed to ensure slave owners could quickly crush any rebellion or resistance from those they'd enslaved. "One of the things that I argue throughout this book is that it is just being Black that is the threat. And so when you mix that being Black as the threat with bearing arms, it's an exponential fear," she says. "This isn't an anti-gun or a pro-gun book. This is a book about African Americans' rights." Anderson's new book is 'The Second.'
Ken Tucker reviews the album 'Outside Child' by Allison Russell.

Reckoning With The History Of Slavery Jun 01, 2021

In 'How the Word is Passed,' writer and poet Clint Smith visits eight places central to the history of slavery in America, including Thomas Jefferson's Monticello plantation and Louisiana's Angola prison. "We are taught that the history of slavery is something that happened almost like when there were dinosaurs," he says. But Smith notes that his grandfather's grandfather was enslaved — and that "this history that we are told was so long ago wasn't, in fact, that long ago at all."
Maureen Corrigan reviews two thriller novels: Chris Power's 'A Lonely Man' and Jean Hanff Korelitz's nightmare of a thriller 'The Plot.'

50 Years Of Philadelphia International Records May 31, 2021

TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia) was the theme from 'Soul Train,' and was one of the many hits written and produced by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff for Philadelphia International Records, the label they co-founded. The label is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. They recorded The O'Jays, Patti LaBelle, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, Teddy Pendergrass, Billy Paul, McFadden and Whitehead, Soul Survivors and more. We'll listen back to the interview Terry Gross recorded with Gamble and Huff in 2008, in which they talked about their partnership, their label, and some of their greatest recordings.
Also, Kevin Whitehead reviews the album 'Black to Future' by the London quartet Sons of Kemet.

Best Of: 'Opal & Nev' Author / The History Of Juneteenth May 29, 2021

Dawnie Walton's novel, 'The Final Revival of Opal & Nev,' is a faux oral history about a '70s interracial rock duo. Opal is a Black proto Afro-punk singer from Detroit, and Nev is a goofy white British singer-songwriter. Walton was inspired by Grace Jones, Betty Davis, Elton John and Bowie. We talk with Walton about how her career in journalism and her taste in music growing up informed the book.
Maureen Corrigan reviews 2 suspense novels: 'A Lonely Man,' by Chris Power, and 'The Plot,' by Jean Hanff Korelitz.
Juneteenth, formerly Emancipation Day or Jubilee, celebrates the day slavery ended in Texas, June 19, 1865. Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Annette Gordon-Reed studies the early American republic and the legacy of slavery. Her book is 'On Juneteenth.'

2 Concerts: Rachael & Vilray / Loudon Wainwright III & Vince Giordano May 28, 2021

The music duo Rachael & Vilray perform songs from their debut album — new songs written by Vilray that could have been on the radio in the '30s and '40s, and songs from the '20s and '30s.
We'll also hear from Loudon Wainwright III and Vince Giordano. They teamed up last year to record an album of songs written by Fats Waller, Harold Arlen and others. It's called 'I'd Rather Lead a Band.'
Also, Justin Chang reviews 'Cruella,' the origin story of Cruella de Vil, starring Emma Stone.

How States Are Making It Harder To Vote May 27, 2021

'New York Times' reporter Nick Corasaniti says Republican-led state legislatures are restricting voting and seizing more power over how elections are run — making previously non-partisan jobs political.
David Bianculli reviews three documentaries the commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa race massacre.

'Exonerated Five' Member Yusef Salaam May 26, 2021

In 1990, Yusef Salaam was one of the five boys wrongly convicted in the so-called Central Park jogger case. Salaam spent nearly 7 years behind bars and wasn't exonerated until 2002, when a serial rapist confessed to the crime. "When the truth came out, that's when we got our lives back," Salaam says. "But for those of us who had five to 10 years prison sentences, we had done all of someone else's time. ... We will never know what our life would have been like had we not gone through this horrible experience." Salaam tells his story in his memoir 'Better, Not Bitter.'
And podcast critic Nick Quah reviews a stunning new series called 'The Line.'

The History Of Juneteenth May 25, 2021

Juneteenth, formerly Emancipation Day or Jubilee, celebrates the day slavery ended in Texas, June 19, 1865. Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Annette Gordon-Reed studies the early American republic and the legacy of slavery. "It was a very, very tense time — hope and at the same time, hostility," Gordon-Reed says. Her book is 'On Juneteenth.'

'Opal & Nev' Author Dawnie Walton May 24, 2021

Dawnie Walton's novel, 'The Final Revival of Opal & Nev,' is a faux oral history about a '70s interracial rock duo. Opal is a Black proto Afro-punk singer from Detroit, and Nev is a goofy white British singer-songwriter. Walton was inspired by Grace Jones, Betty Davis, Elton John and Bowie. We talk with Walton about how her career in journalism and her taste in music growing up informed the book.
And John Powers reviews 'Whitstable Pearl,' a crime drama on Acorn TV.

Best Of: Seth Rogen / Jean Smart May 22, 2021

Seth Rogen returns to talk about his new memoir, 'Yearbook,' which is filled with funny and surprising stories — starting with the first time he did stand-up when he was 12 and continuing through his life and film career. He's produced, directed, written and starred in many films, including 'Knocked Up,' 'Superbad,' and 'The Interview.'
Justin Chang reviews the Indian film 'The Disciple' about an aspiring classical singer.
Jean Smart's breakout role was on the '80s sitcom 'Designing Women.' She's had recent great roles as the head of a crime family on 'Fargo' and as an FBI agent on 'Watchmen.' Now she co-stars in the HBO series 'Mare of Easttown' and stars in HBO Max comedy 'Hacks,' as a veteran comic forced to update her act.

Remembering Actor Charles Grodin / Delmark Records' Bob Koester May 21, 2021

Actor Charles Grodin, of 'Midnight Run' and 'Heartbreak Kid' fame, died May 18. He was known for his deadpan humor and his ability to make even the most unpleasant characters likable and funny. He spoke with Terry Gross in 1989. Also, we remember Bob Koester, who died May 12. He was the founder of Delmark Records, which released records by blues and jazz artists, and he also operated the Jazz Record Mart in Chicago. He was a mentor and father figure for many Chicago musicians, and he was considered one of the major forces behind the blues revival in the mid '60s.
Justin Chang reviews 'The Killing of Two Lovers' and TV critic David Bianculli reviews two shows, 'The Bite' and 'Solos.'

Inside The COVID Crisis In India May 20, 2021

Jeffrey Gettleman of the 'New York Times,' based in New Delhi, says the air has been filled with smoke from crematories. Meanwhile, the health care system is collapsing and the black market for oxygen and medicine is thriving. "What we're seeing now is the nightmare that we really wanted to avoid," he says. "And that is this virus just tearing through a really large country. 1.4 billion people, many of them living in close quarters, a perfect recipe for disaster for a highly contagious disease."

Actor John Boyega On 'Star Wars' & 'Small Axe' May 19, 2021

Boyega played Finn in the 'Star Wars' sequel trilogy and he won a Golden Globe for his leading role in the anthology series 'Small Axe,' as a Black British police officer who joined the force in the '80s to try to change the system. Boyega has been outspoken about systemic racism — including in Hollywood. Last year, he talked about how his character in 'Star Wars' was sidelined, along with the other characters played by actors of color. He spoke with guest interviewer Sam Sanders.
Ken Tucker reviews Sophia Kennedy's new album 'Monsters' and John Powers reviews Rachel Cusk's novel 'Second Place.'

Seth Rogen May 18, 2021

Rogen returns to talk about his new memoir, 'Yearbook,' which is filled with funny and surprising stories — starting with the first time he did stand-up when he was 12 and continuing through his life and film career. He used to be the youngest person in the room, but now that he's approaching 40, he's reconsidering a lot of things, from what message not to give teens in his films to how to create a set where everyone feels comfortable and safe. He's produced, directed, written and starred in many films, including 'Knocked Up,' 'Superbad,' 'Pineapple Express,' 'This is the End,' 'The Interview' and 'Long Shot.'

Failure & Dysfunction In The Secret Service May 17, 2021

Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Carol Leonnig's new book, 'Zero Fail,' examines how the Secret Service is underfunded, overworked, and increasingly relying on luck. "They strongly believed that it was a matter of time before a president was shot on their watch," Leonnig says. We talk about the impact of JFK's assassination on the agency, the prostitution scandal in Colombia ahead of Obama's trip there, and how Trump's golf trips drained the agency's resources.
Also, Maureen Corrigan reviews 'Notes on Grief' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

Best Of: Filmmaker Barry Jenkins / Writer Francisco Goldman May 15, 2021

We talk with 'Moonlight' filmmaker Barry Jenkins about his new series, 'The Underground Railroad.' Adapted from Colson Whitehead's novel, the series follows Cora, an enslaved young woman who has escaped a plantation and heads North on a literal railroad train. Jenkins says the series made him feel closer to his ancestors.
Maureen Corrigan reviews Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's latest book, 'Notes on Grief.'
Also, Francisco Goldman talks about his new, semi-autobiographical novel, 'Monkey Boy.' The son of a Jewish father and a Guatemalan mother, Goldman grew up mostly in working class suburbs of Boston. He reflects on the impact of physical abuse from his father, and the assaults and insults he endured from kids who resented his ethnic background.

Tom Jones May 14, 2021

The singer Tom Jones, who became a pop star and sex symbol in the 1960s with "It's Not Unusual," "Delilah," and "What's New Pussycat?" has a new album. He spoke with Terry Gross in 2003. Also, we remember dancer Jacques d'Amboise, who was with the New York City Ballet for decades. He died May 2.
And Justin Chang reviews 'The Woman in the Window.'

Unlocking The Mysteries Of Endometriosis May 13, 2021

It's estimated that one in 10 women experience endometriosis during their reproductive years, a condition where cells from the uterine lining go rogue, move to other organs and grow there, leading to terrible pain. Many women who have the disorder struggle to be properly diagnosed. Dr. Linda Griffith spent years in debilitating pain before she was finally diagnosed. "I was told it was normal. I was told that I was under stress ... [that] I was rejecting my femininity," she says. In 2009, she co-founded the MIT Center for Gynepathology Research, where she studies the disorder. We talk about "period privilege," why she kept her condition a secret for so long, and treatments on the horizon.
Also, David Bianculli reviews the HBO Max series 'Hacks' starring Jean Smart.

Actor Jean Smart May 12, 2021

Smart's breakout role was on the '80s sitcom 'Designing Women.' She's had recent great roles as the head of a crime family on 'Fargo' and as an FBI agent on 'Watchmen.' Now she co-stars in the HBO series 'Mare of Easttown' and stars in HBO Max comedy 'Hacks,' as a veteran comic forced to update her act. Smart talks about meeting her late husband, learning the Delaware County accent for 'Mare of Easttown' and the 'Fraiser' line fans quote back to her.

Writer Francisco Goldman Revisits His Childhood With 'Monkey Boy' May 11, 2021

The son of a Jewish father and a Guatemalan mother, Goldman grew up mostly in working class suburbs of Boston. His new novel, 'Monkey Boy,' draws on his own experiences, including being physically abused by his dad. "I wanted to go back and look at some very difficult years of my childhood and adolescence," Goldman says.

Filmmaker Barry Jenkins On 'The Underground Railroad' May 10, 2021

Barry Jenkins says filming his new series about an enslaved girl who escapes from a plantation was the most difficult project of his career — and one that made him feel closer to his own ancestors. "It was incredibly difficult, partly because we were standing in places where ... these atrocities had occurred," he says. Jenkins directed 'Moonlight,' which won the 2017 Oscar for Best Picture, as well as the 2018 adaptation of James Baldwin's novel, 'If Beale Street Could Talk.' We talk about depicting the brutality of slavery onscreen, his own family history, and why he wanted to become a filmmaker.

Best Of: Advocate For Teen Moms, Nicole Lynn Lewis / Cartoonist Alison Bechdel May 08, 2021

As a pregnant teenager, Nicole Lynn Lewis felt ashamed. Now she knows many pregnant teens share the problems she had — including an abusive boyfriend, and being temporarily homeless. She says the odds against pregnant teens going to college and having a career are even greater, if you're Black, like she is. We talk about her new memoir, 'Pregnant Girl.'
Also, we hear from Alison Bechdel. Her graphic memoir 'Fun Home,' about coming out and learning her father had secret gay affairs, was adapted into a Tony Award-winning musical. Her new graphic memoir, 'The Secret to Superhuman Strength,' is about her obsession with exercise and the issues that have fed that obsession.
And, jazz critic Kevin Whitehead reviews a new Louis Armstrong box set.

Celebrating Mothers: Feat. Trevor Noah, Scorsese & More May 07, 2021

We celebrate Mother's Day with stories of mom from past interviews with 'Daily Show' host Trevor Noah, Martin Scorsese and filmmaker Albert Brooks. And Lorna Luft remembers her mother, Judy Garland.
Also, David Bianculli reviews 'Attenborough's Journey,' a BBC America special that salutes the nature broadcaster.

How Systemic Racism Determines Black Health & Wealth In Chicago May 06, 2021

There is a 30-year gap in the life expectancy of some Black and white Chicagoans. Journalist Linda Villarosa talks about the link between racism and health outcomes, and tells her own family's story.
Also, we remember rock historian Ed Ward, who died this week.

Alison Bechdel On 'The Secret To Superhuman Strength' May 05, 2021

Bechdel's new graphic memoir is about her lifelong obsession with exercise. She says she has a "predisposition of being extremely self-conscious and very caught up in my head" — and exercise helps. Bechdel's previous graphic memoir, 'Fun Home,' was about coming out at age 19, and discovering her father had a secret gay life. It was adapted into a Tony Award-winning Broadway show.
Also, Justin Chang reviews 'The Disciple,' a film about a man from Mumbai who aspires to be a great classical musician.

The Social Lives Of Trees May 04, 2021

Ecologist Suzanne Simard says trees are "social creatures" that communicate with each other in remarkable ways — including warning each other of danger and sharing nutrients at critical times. Her book is 'Finding the Mother Tree.'
Also, classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews a collection by composer Bernard Herrmann, best-known for the scores he wrote for Alfred Hitchcock.

Former 'Pregnant Girl' Now Helps Other Teen Moms Succeed May 03, 2021

In her new memoir, 'Pregnant Girl,' Nicole Lynn Lewis recalls feeling overwhelmed and isolated as a young mom in college. Now she runs an organization that is designed to support young parents with their education. We talk about her experience as a teen mom, the way society abandons young mothers — particularly young Black mothers — and how to help give young families the support they need to succeed.

Best Of: Stephen Colbert / NPR's 50th Anniversary May 01, 2021

Stephen Colbert has been taping 'The Late Show' without a studio audience during the pandemic — but he's not always alone. Sometimes his wife Evie is in the room. If she laughs, he knows he's on the right track. "I got into show business in a way to not be alone. Like a lot of comedians, I'm a bit of a broken toy," he says.
NPR's program, 'All Things Considered' debuted on May 3, 1971. 'ATC' creator Bill Siemering and former co-host Susan Stamberg look back on the early years of the network, NPR's mission, and Stamberg's pioneering role as the first woman to anchor a daily national news program in America.

Remembering Astronaut Michael Collins Apr 30, 2021

While Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made their historic walk on the moon, Lt. Col. Michael Collins orbited above in the Apollo 11 command capsule, waiting to rendezvous with them. For a time, on the far side of the moon, he was cut off from everyone. "It's utterly quiet. Completely serene," he told Terry Gross in 1988. "I knew that over on the other side there were 3 billion on that funny looking little planet out there, and two on the surface of the moon, but where I was that was all. Just me." Collins died Wednesday at the age of 90.
Also, we hear an excerpt of our interview with Kate Winslet. She's starring in the new HBO series 'Mare of Easttown.'
And Justin Chang reviews the Swedish film 'About Endlessness,' which he calls "beautifully bittersweet"

Novelist Imbolo Mbue Apr 29, 2021

Set in a fictional African village in the 1980s, Mbue's latest novel, 'How Beautiful We Were,' is a David and Goliath tale about a group of villagers who take on an American oil company. Guest host Arun Venugopal talks with Mbue about her childhood in Cameroon, becoming a U.S. citizen, and the activist that inspired her new novel. Her first book, 'Behold the Dreamers,' was a 'New York Times' bestseller.
Also, Kevin Whitehead reviews a new collection of Louis Armstrong studio recordings. And Maureen Corrigan reviews two stories about the bargains we strike for love — 'Early Morning Riser' and 'Secrets of Happiness.'

50 Years Of NPR: Radio Legends Susan Stamberg & Bill Siemering Apr 28, 2021

NPR's program, 'All Things Considered' debuted on May 3, 1971. 'ATC' creator Bill Siemering and former co-host Susan Stamberg look back on the early years of the network, NPR's mission, and Stamberg's pioneering role as the first woman to anchor a daily national news program in America.

Catching Up with Stephen Colbert Apr 27, 2021

Stephen Colbert has been taping 'The Late Show' without a studio audience during the pandemic — but he's not always alone. Sometimes his wife Evie is in the room. If she laughs, he knows he's on the right track. "I got into show business in a way to not be alone. Like a lot of comedians, I'm a bit of a broken toy," he says. Colbert and Terry Gross catch up on the past four years, since the Trump administration and COVID-19 changed his comedy.

How Processed Food Companies Get Us 'Hooked' On Junk Apr 26, 2021

Journalist Michael Moss says processed foods can be as addictive as cocaine, heroin and cigarettes. In his new book, 'Hooked,' Moss explores how these companies appeal to our senses, nostalgia and brain chemistry to keep us snacking. "It's inexpensive, it's legal, it's everywhere," Moss says. "And the advertising from the companies is cueing us to remember those products and we want those products constantly."
Ken Tucker reviews Carsie Blanton's album 'Love & Rage.'

Best Of: 'Resistance' Podcast Host Saidu Tejan-Thomas Jr. / Courtney B. Vance Apr 24, 2021

Saidu Tejan-Thomas Jr. lost a close friend from college to police violence. His Spotify podcast, 'Resistance,' explores different aspects of the movement for Black lives — including Tejan-Thomas Jr.'s personal history. We also talk about his childhood in Sierra Leone during the civil war.
Courtney B. Vance got his start in the theater, with a breakout role in the August Wilson play 'Fences' on Broadway. We talk about his origin story and his recent roles as Aretha Franklin's father, Rev. C.L. Franklin, in 'Genius: Aretha,' and as the show-stopping attorney Johnnie Cochran, in 'The People v. O.J. Simpson.'

Pixar 'Soul' Creators Pete Docter & Kemp Powers Apr 23, 2021

The Oscar-nominated animated film imagines a place where souls are matched with unique passions. It follows Joe Gardner, a middle school band teacher and aspiring jazz musician, who nearly dies right after securing the gig of his life. Pete Docter and Kemp Powers say their movie is meant to challenge conventional notions of success and failure. We talk about lost souls, appreciating the small things, and early versions of the film.
Justin Chang reviews 'Moffie,' about a white gay teen in Apartheid South Africa.

The Social Psychologist Who Works To Reduce Harm In Policing Apr 22, 2021

Yale professor Dr. Phillip Atiba Goff co-founded the Center for Policing Equity, which collects data on police behavior from 18,000 law enforcement agencies across the country. He says most people think of racism as an issue of character and ignorance. But, he says, focusing on changing racist attitudes is "a bad way to stop the behavior," He says. "The best way to regulate behavior is to regulate behavior. And that's what we can do in policing. That's what we can do in our communities. That's what we can do with policies."
Also, book critic Maureen Corrigan reviews 'Nives' by Italian writer Sacha Naspini, newly translated into English.

Courtney B. Vance On Playing Rev. C.L. Franklin & Johnnie Cochran Apr 21, 2021

Courtney B. Vance got his start in the theater, with a breakout role in the August Wilson play 'Fences' on Broadway. We talk about his origin story and his recent roles as Aretha Franklin's father, Rev. C.L. Franklin, in 'Genius: Aretha,' and as the show-stopping attorney Johnnie Cochran, in 'The People v. O.J. Simpson.' Vance attributes much of his career success to the dean of the Yale Drama School when he was there, Lloyd Richards, who lifted up Black performers.

Growing Up In A Cult, Lauren Hough Freed Herself By Writing Apr 20, 2021

Hough was 15 when her family left the Children of God cult. Afterward, she struggled to face the trauma of her past. At 18 she joined the Air Force during "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," and was discharged for being gay. "I spent a long time lying to myself more than, I think, anyone else. Telling myself that my childhood didn't affect me, telling myself that the military didn't affect me," she says. "I think writing, more than anything, brought that out. ... You kind of have to tell the truth or it's crap and you know it." Her new collection of personal essays is 'Leaving Isn't the Hardest Thing.'
Podcast critic Nick Quah reviews 'Renegades,' Spotify's podcast of President Obama and Bruce Springsteen in conversation. And jazz critic Kevin Whitehead reviews a tribute album to Ornette Coleman by Miguel Zenón.

'How To Be An Adult' & 'Real American' Author Julie Lythcott-Haims Apr 19, 2021

Former Stanford University undergraduate dean Julie Lythcott-Haims' new book, 'Your Turn: How to Be an Adult,' is a handbook on adulthood, offering insights and strategies on education and career choices, building friendships and coping with setbacks. Her 2017 memoir, 'Real American,' is the story of her coming to terms with her racial identity. Her father was a successful African American physician, her mother a white British woman. We talk about both books and her upbringing.
Also John Powers reviews the first English translation of Kaoru Takamura's 'Lady Joker,' a crime novel that sold a million copies and spawned a movie and TV series in Japan.

Best Of: Choreographer Twyla Tharp / Henry Louis Gates On 'The Black Church' Apr 17, 2021

'Twyla Moves,' a new documentary by PBS American Masters, tells the story of the legendary choreographer and dancer, who got her start performing on subway platforms and rooftops in the 1960s. "If it was kind of level, it was fair territory," she tells Terry Gross.
Kevin Whitehead reviews a newly unearthed album from Hasaan Ibn Ali.
'Finding Your Roots' host Henry Louis Gates has a new book and PBS series called 'The Black Church.' Gates describes the Black church as "the cultural cauldron Black people created to combat a system designed in every way to crush their spirit." We'll talk about the bargain Gates made with Jesus when he was 12 in an attempt to save his mother's life.

Native Peoples' 'Long, Brutal Fight For Survival' Apr 16, 2021

Louise Erdrich's novel, 'The Night Watchman,' was inspired by her grandfather, a chairman of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa who fought a Congressional initiative to move indigenous peoples off their land and into cities. Erdrich says the policy amounted to tribal termination. "Termination was a way to finally resolve what Congress thought of as 'the Indian problem,'" she says.
David Bianculli reviews HBO's 'Mare of Easttown,' starring Kate Winslet.

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