It's Been a Minute - NPR - TopPodcast.com

UFOs to RFKs: How conspiracy theories went mainstream Nov 22, 2024

Are UFOs real? Maybe, but that's not the point. From Congressional hearings on UFOs to the claims of RFK Jr., conspiracies have gone from fringe to mainstream political talking points. Authors Kelly Weill and Mike Rothschild join the show to explain why.
Then, PEOPLE Magazine released this year's Sexiest Man Alive... and it was certainly a choice! But it got Brittany thinking: what makes someone sexy in the year 2024, and who decides what's hot? The hosts of Who Weekly, Bobby Finger and Lindsey Weber, join the show to get into it.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Make America Male Again? Fifteen years of aggrieved men Nov 19, 2024

The boys are not alright. They are falling behind in education and employment, and many have responded by leaning into the politics of the aggrieved. For decades, these major cultural developments have laid the groundwork for Donald Trump's re-election.
Today Brittany talks with Hanna Rosin. Fifteen years ago she started researching what was going on with men. Her groundbreaking book The End of Men was one of the first to note this societal shift for men. Over a decade later, her assessment is more accurate than ever.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why pop stars aren't having kids (and why you might not either) Nov 15, 2024

Baby fever just isn't spreading like it used to. The United States fertility rate hit an all-time low last year, and some of our biggest musicians, like Charli XCX and Tyler the Creator, are working their parenting anxieties out in their club bangers. This week, host Brittany Luse invites Anastasia Berg, co-author of What are Children For?, to explore the unique way millennials are confronting the age old question of whether or not to have a child.
Then, in the wake of media layoffs, there's still a hunger for food coverage. Enter TikTok star and former MMA fighter Keith Lee, whose reviews of local eats have gained him over 16 million followers. Critics of Lee say he's diluting the art of culinary criticism, but fans can't get enough of his casual style. Brittany turns to Detroit Free Press restaurant and dining critic Lyndsay C. Green, and New York Times food writer Korsha Wilson to grapple with the #KeithLee Effect.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Mormon Moms: Unpacking a national obsession Nov 12, 2024

From Hulu's The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to your favorite homemaking TikTok influencers, the women of the Church of Latter Day Saints have been gaining mass audiences via social media for over a decade. This week, Brittany is joined by Jana Riess, senior columnist at Religious News Service and author of The Next Mormons: How Millennials are Changing the LDS Church, to discuss how Mormon culture provides some of TikTok's most powerful influencers with heavenly tools for success.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

"Are you surprised?" Three Black women react to the election Nov 08, 2024

What's surprising about Trump returning to the White House? For Brittany Luse, Pop Culture Happy Hour's Aisha Harris, and NPR's Alana Wise there isn't much to be surprised about. Three Black women and journalists mull over how this moment is business as usual from where they sit.
Then, Brittany puts the spotlight on a word that's been in the shadows in this election cycle: feminism. Vox's Constance Grady and Paper Magazine's Joan Summers join the show to discuss the state of feminism in American politics.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The hot mom rom-com phenomenon Nov 05, 2024

It's Election Day, but instead of focusing on politics, we decided to do something a little lighter for the occasion: we're looking at this year's hot mom rom-com boom. Host Brittany Luse is joined by New York Magazine features writer Rachel Handler to get a little deeper into three movies from this genre: A Family Affair, The Idea of You, and Between the Temples. They discuss how hot moms on screen have changed, but why movies like these often still feel behind the times.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

America's Next Top Scapegoat; plus, Inside the Black Manosphere Nov 01, 2024

The 2024 presidential candidates are making their closing arguments. While VP Harris is focused on the economy and abortion rights, Donald Trump has doubled down on anti-immigrant and anti-trans attack ads. This week, Brittany invites Translash's Imara Jones and NPR immigration correspondent Sergio Martínez-Beltrán to understand what deeper fears these attack ads are stoking.
Then, Brittany is joined by Code Switch's Gene Demby to explore the roots of a corner of the conservative internet that may have surprising effects on the election: The Black Manosphere.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Onscreen cannibalism and our hunger for love Oct 29, 2024

For the third and final installment of our Trilogy of Terror series, host Brittany Luse turns her attention to the ultimate taboo: cannibalism. Cannibalism stories have gotten big recently: it's in The Last of Us, Society of the Snow and Yellowjackets. She's joined by NPR Arts Desk reporter Neda Ulaby to dig deeper into three cannibalism films. They break down how versatile the trope is, what it says about how we consume – and how we love.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Billboard Hot 100's doom loop; Plus, a new kind of true crime story Oct 25, 2024

The same songs are sitting at the top of the music charts longer than ever, and that has Brittany Luse wondering, are our listening habits stuck in a doom loop? Brittany chats with NPR music editor Stephen Thompson to get to the bottom of the top of the charts.
Plus, when a daughter or sister disappears how does a family move on without closure? Host Brittany Luse is joined by Fresh Air co-host Tonya Mosley and and her nephew Antonio Wiley to talk about their new kind of true crime podcast, She Has A Name.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Kylie Minogue's tips for staying on top Oct 23, 2024

Kylie Minogue is having a capital-M moment, and Brittany sits down in studio with the pop star to talk about how to keep reaching new heights in a career full of peaks.
Hot off her Vegas Residency, Kylie just dropped her new album Tension II and is gearing up for a world tour. The legend shares her tips for staying on top for three decades, and Brittany asks what's the secret for turning underground dance music in pristine pop bangers.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The false promise of climate havens; plus, the 'help' in horror Oct 18, 2024

Extreme weather is becoming more frequent. Now some towns that were touted as "safe" are seeing hurricanes, floods or heat waves. This week, host Brittany Luse is joined by NPR climate solutions reporter Julia Simon and NPR culture reporter Chloe Veltman to understand misconceptions around "climate havens" and what it means to preserve culture in the face of the climate crisis.
Then, Brittany continues her Trilogy of Terror series with an unexpected horror trope: scary service workers. She invites Bowdoin College English professor Aviva Briefel and Slate writer Joshua Rivera to break down how the maids, murderers, and motel workers in horror reveal different cultural anxieties about eating the rich.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Sasha Colby takes us to Drag college Oct 15, 2024

Sasha Colby is your favorite drag queen's favorite drag queen. That's because she's one of the most decorated and influential drag queens working today - she's Chappell Roan's inspiration, a Miss Continental winner and a RuPaul's Drag Race winner.
Sasha Colby joins Brittany following her 'STRIPPED' world tour to dish about her career, the mainstreaming of drag, and what it takes to persevere through drag's rhinestone trenches.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Is the free speech debate dead? Plus, the devil! Oct 11, 2024

In anticipation of more pro-Palestinian protests, many college administrators rolled out new rules this fall that include getting pre-approval for posting flyers or hosting demonstrations. Brittany is joined by UC Irvine sociology professor David S. Meyer, who studies social movements and public policy, and Chronicle of Higher Education reporter Kate Hidalgo Bellows. They discuss the changes on campuses and how they tie into debates over free speech.
Then, Brittany kicks off a new series exploring horror tropes. It's called The Trilogy of Terror. First up: Beelzebub. Brittany invites Travis Stevens and Klaus Yoder, historians and co-hosts of the podcast Seven Heads, Ten Horns: The History of the Devil, to talk about the symbology of the devil and how representations of him in horror movies have changed over time.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: Techno vs. Aaliyah vs. Motown Oct 09, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
For the past two months Brittany has been hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places. Today, she ends her tour in her hometown. It's a homecoming of sorts. Beyoncé style.
For the last episode in the series, Brittany lands in Detroit, Michigan, and debates with Tia Graham, co-host of WDET's CultureShift and Cary Junior II, producer for WDET's Created Equal. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The 'reddit bro' vs. the 'wife guy'; plus, Fat Bear Week! Oct 04, 2024

Tuesday night, JD Vance and Tim Walz faced off in their first debate. Host Brittany Luse is joined by NPR's national race and identity correspondent Sandhya Dirks and political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben to discuss how the candidates display competing brands of white masculinity.
Then, Fat Bear Week is back! The annual March Madness-style bracket of the fattest bears in Alaska's Katmai National Park is in full swing after a rocky start. In honor of Fat Bear Week, Brittany revisits a journey through time to unpack what bears mean to us — and why they're family, friend and foe all at once.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: Rihanna's greatest hits vs. Black Wall Street vs. Route 66 Oct 02, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
Welcome to The Smackdown! For the last few weeks Brittany has been hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places.
This episode Brittany lands in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and debates with KOSU's Jacob Littlebear and Kuma Roberts, co-hosts of Focus: Black Oklahoma. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

An identity crisis at the heart of the election; plus, disrupting biracial fantasies Sep 27, 2024

Following the false allegations against the Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, the city received over 30 bomb threats, saw school closures and even the cancellation of a celebration for diversity in arts and culture. Host Brittany Luse talks to NPR Immigration correspondent Jasmine Garsd about what she's learned from her reporting in the region and how all this could tie into a larger Midwest identity crisis.
Then, Brittany is joined by Danzy Senna, author ofColored Television, to talk about how she's seen biracial representation change over the last three decades, and what it means to be in the "Not Like Us" era. They dig into her latest novel and its perspective on racial profiteering.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: Serena Williams vs. Muhammad Ali vs. Trina Sep 24, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places.
This episode Brittany lands in Miami, Florida, and debates with WLRN reporter Wilkine Brutus and The Miami Herald's C. Isaiah Smalls II. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
This discussion features excerpts from the NPR Music's Louder Than A Riot. Hear more from Sidney Madden's interview with Trina here.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Is Diddy hip-hop's Weinstein? Plus, Brittany gets rejected Sep 20, 2024

On Monday, the embattled rap mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs was arrested and charged with sex trafficking and racketeering. He's been denied bail twice, and is facing a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. Host Brittany Luse is joined by NPR Music editor Sidney Madden and legal affairs reporter Meghann Cuniff to understand what this indictment means for Combs and if this could be the beginning of a #MeToo movement in hip-hop.
Then, Brittany is joined by Tony Tulathimutte, author of Rejection, to talk about a rising culture around rejection, his book and why online life can enable rejections to curdle inside us.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: Brunch vs. Twerking vs. Louis Armstrong Sep 17, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places.
This episode Brittany lands in New Orleans, Louisiana, and debates with Gulf States Newsroom health equity reporter Drew Hawkins and writer & editor Ko Bragg. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Trump goes podcasting and Harris turns a look Sep 13, 2024

Podcast and social media influencers have become important campaign stops for political hopefuls. But what kind of voters are the candidates courting? And what does the popularity of these interviews say about the growing political power of the influencer? Brittany is joined by Slate staff writer Luke Winkie and NBC News tech and culture reporter Kat Tenbarge to find out.
But first, what can we learn about the political candidates through their clothes? After the presidential debate, Brittany sat down with Washington Post fashion writer Rachel Tashjian and New York Times chief fashion critic Vanessa Friedman to talk about the fashion choices of the front runners and how power dressing has changed. They also play a Taylor Swift trivia game.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: Gucci Mane vs. Angela Davis vs. Sun Ra Sep 10, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places.
This episode Brittany lands in Birmingham, Alabama, and debates with Gulf States Newsroom sports & culture reporter Joseph King and AL.com culture reporter Cody Short. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Gen Z asks: what is school for? Plus, rebranding gentrification Sep 06, 2024

It's September, which means millions of young learners across the country are dusting off their backpacks and heading back to school. But a new study from Gallup and The Walton Family Foundation has shown that students are less engaged, and feel less challenged than last year, and about half of them have no plans to get a Bachelor's degree right after high school. Host Brittany Luse is joined by Karin Klein, education reporter and author of Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving Without a Degree, and NPR Education Desk correspondent and Senior Editor Cory Turner to parse through what has next generation feeling despondent and if we need to rethink the purpose of high school.
Then, Brittany is on the housing hunt, but she's found that even outside major urban areas, small cities across the country are rapidly gentrifying. Richard E. Ocejo, author of Sixty Miles Upriver: Gentrification and Race in a Small American City, joins Brittany to look at what happens when big city gentrifiers move to town and how some of them have rebranded gentrification.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: Video Games vs. Journalism vs. Robert Frost Sep 03, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places.
This episode Brittany lands in Concord, New Hampshire, the Granite State, and debates with New Hampshire Public Radio reporters Hannah McCarthy and Nick Capodice, the hosts of the excellent podcast Civics 101. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Chappell Roan and celebrity hazing; plus, MrBeast's entertainment charity Aug 30, 2024

After Chappell Roan posted about how some fans have been making her feel unsafe, there's been speculation around whether the singer is really 'cut out to be a pop star.' But are the critiques fair? Brittany sits down with Kelsey McKinney, who wrote about the controversy for Defector, and Dr. Mel Stanfill, author of Fandom is Ugly. They discuss modern fandom, how Chappell Roan framed it as a conversation about gender and what people misunderstand about celebrity.
Then, Brittany looks at the how charity is changing. Traditional charitable giving is down in the US and some non-profits have declared that we're in the middle of a "generosity crisis." At the same time, a new genre of online viral videos has emerged: feel-good 'charity' content. And nobody does it bigger than MrBeast. Brittany is joined by journalist Max Read to understand the MrBeast phenomenon and break down the generational divides these videos reveal.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The rise of the Pumpkin Spice Latte Aug 28, 2024

It's been 21 years since Starbucks debuted the first pumpkin spice latte in 2003. Since then, it's become a cultural phenomenon greater than itself: it's shorthand for fall, for basicness, for femininity, and even for white culture. In this episode from last year, we explore why the PSL became so powerful — and how food trends garner so much meaning.
Host Brittany Luse chatted with Suzy Badaracco, food trend forecaster and founder of Culinary Tides, to discuss the $500 million dollar industry, and how little miss pumpkin spice has held on to her cultural power.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

"The Squad" loses two members; plus, Colman Domingo shines in 'SING SING' Aug 23, 2024

As the dust settles on the DNC, host Brittany Luse takes a look at the challenges facing a group of progressive democrats commonly known as "The Squad." Incumbent Reps. Cori Bush in Missouri and Jamaal Bowman in New York lost their seats this summer to candidates whose campaigns received funding from pro-Israel PACs. Brittany is joined by POLITICO Congress reporter Sarah Ferris and Capital B News national politics reporter Brandon Tensley to understand how these PACs are impacting progressives in Congress.
Then, Brittany talks to Colman Domingo about his new film, 'SING SING,' which follows the emotional lives of a group of incarcerated actors working together to stage an original musical. Colman stars alongside a cast of real-life formerly incarcerated actors, and connects with Brittany over experiencing new versions of masculinity and paving the way for a new kind of Hollywood star.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: Maya Angelou vs. Harvey Milk vs. MC Hammer Aug 20, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places.
This episode Brittany lands in San Francisco, California, the Bay Area, and debates with KQED reporters Pendarvis Harshaw, host of Rightnowish, and Olivia Allen-Price, host of Bay Curious. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The SMACKDOWN: The Peanuts vs. Prince vs. Dungeons & Dragons Aug 16, 2024

Who will win today's cage match?
Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places.
This episode Brittany lands in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, the Twin Cities, and debates with Minnesota Public Radio reporters Kyra Miles and Jacob Aloi. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Does 'weird' work for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz? Aug 13, 2024

Ever since Minnesota governor and Democratic vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz called Republicans "weird," we've seen other Democrats embrace this name-calling strategy and deploy it in interviews and in memes online. We've also seen Republicans lobbing the "weird" moniker right back at Democrats. To get into how "weird" this all is, Brittany chats with NPR culture reporter Andrew Limbong and NPR political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben about this new political strategy and redefining "normalcy" in 2024.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The summer hits reveal some complicated vibes Aug 09, 2024

Now that we're in the dog days of summer, host Brittany Luse wants to know - do we have a song of the summer this year? According to NPR Music reporter Sidney Madden and NPR Music host, writer and editor Stephen Thompson, there isn't one song - but many songs.
"We are more disparate than ever, that's why it's hard to chart a single song right now," said Sidney. "It's more like choose your own adventure."
So - we're choosing our own adventure today and discussing the many contenders for song of the summer - and hearing why each song tells us something a little different about our cultural moment.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Code Switch: Do we need to stop using the word "felon"? Aug 06, 2024

Ever since Vice President Kamala Harris entered the presidential race, things changed. Her campaign almost immediately started framing the election as: Harris, the former prosecutor - vs. Trump the felon. And that word - "felon" - is one that our friends over at NPR's Code Switch have been thinking a lot about since former President Trump was convicted of 34 counts back in May. In this episode, Code Switch co-hosts B.A. Parker and Gene Demby chop it up with the comedian Arif Shahid, who performs under the name Felonious Munk, to talk about what it means for him to carry this reference to his felony conviction so publicly. Then, Gene talks to Josie Duffy-Rice, a writer who focuses on the criminal justice system, to look at the ways "felon" sticks to people long after their sentences end.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The misunderstood humor of political memes Aug 02, 2024

From the attempted assassination of former President Trump, to President Biden dropping out of the election, and VP Kamala Harris stepping up... The news these past few weeks has been buck wild. And the energy online is similarly unhinged. But what do most people get wrong when they try to interpret the latest explosion of political memes? And what do these posts actually say about how people are processing major events? And are there consequences to just posting through it? Host Brittany Luse is joined by Tatum Hunter, consumer tech reporter at The Washington Post, and Kyle Chayka, staff writer at The New Yorker, to discuss what meaning could possibly be gleaned from the meme madness.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Quality chills and feel good content on Dropout Jul 30, 2024

It seems like there are countless streamers these days – there's Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Max, Peacock, Roku, just to name a few. Still, success and profit remain elusive to even some of the biggest in the biz. However there is one smaller streamer that seems to have found a path to prosperity: Dropout. In this encore episode, IBAM host Brittany Luse sat down with Dropout CEO Sam Reich earlier this year to find out how his company is forging a path to success in a successful market, all while revamping the gameshow format. The pair also play a little gameshow game.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Olympic hurdles for women athletes; plus, big trucks and big questions Jul 26, 2024

This is the first year the Olympics have gender parity between men's and women's teams - but does it mean gender equity? ESPN writer Katie Barnes and Rose Eveleth, host of NPR and CBC's Tested, join Brittany to discuss the barriers that women athletes still face - from men-only categories to women-only sex testing.
And later - in recent years, you may have noticed some new behemoths prowling the streets of America: giant trucks. The sheer size of them has sparked policy debates – many are so big that it's not possible to see a child crossing directly in front of them, and there's been a spike in pedestrian deaths. Brittany is joined by Angie Schmitt, author of Right of Way, to chat about why these big trucks are so popular and what they say about our cultural anxieties.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' gets 10s across the board Jul 23, 2024

In the latest revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats, there are no singing cats. The actors have basically ditched the furry ears and velvet tails and reimagined the characters as competitors in the ballroom scene, vying for trophies and a new chance at life. This week, host Brittany Luse talks to Cats: The Jellicle Ball star Chasity Moore and co-director Zhailon Levingston about ballroom, spectacles and memories.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The rise of the AR-15; plus, why do comedians play so many cops? Jul 19, 2024

Last Saturday, former president Donald Trump was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania when a gunman shot at him – killing one spectator and clipping Trump in the ear. The response? Outrage, condemnations, and prayers on all sides... but there's been less chatter about the gun that shot at him. And this gun has a lot of symbolism: The AR-15. Host Brittany Luse is joined by The Wall Street Journal's Zusha Elinson, co-author of the book American Gun, and Jennifer Mascia, senior news writer and founding staffer at The Trace, a nonpartisan nonprofit newsroom that covers guns. Together, they discuss how the AR-15 style rifle went from an outcast in the gun world to the one of the biggest pro-gun symbols and why that actually reflects bigger cultural shifts.
And later - cop comedies are getting big reboots this year. But why do audiences want to see funny Black guys playing cops? And what does it mean that the characters poking fun at power are also the ones enforcing it on screen? To find out - Brittany is joined by Soraya Nadia McDonald, who wrote a deep dive on all of Will Smith's law enforcement roles, and Washington Post opinion columnist Alyssa Rosenberg, who wrote a five part series on Hollywood's long relationship with law enforcement on and off screen.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Simmering over summer books Jul 16, 2024

We're at the peak of summer, which means sunny days on the grass with a good book! Bestselling authors Tia Williams and Jean Chen Ho join host Brittany Luse to give their recommendations for great summer reads. They also offer some armchair theories on why we love a gossipy summer novel.
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Guest by Emma Cline
Meet Me Tonight in Atlantic City by Jane Wong
Hip-Hop Is History by Questlove with Ben Greenman
Devil is Fine by John Vercher
Good Material by Dolly Alderton
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke
Fiona and Jane by Jean Chen Ho
A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Hawk tuah,' the Zynternet, & the bro-vote; plus, cowboys are having a moment Jul 12, 2024

What did the raunchy joke say to the podcast host? That we might need to pay attention to the "zynternet." Host Brittany Luse is joined by Slate's Luke Winkie and sex and culture writer Magdalene Taylor to understand why the "hawk tuah" phenomenon is emblematic of a corner of the internet that's both culturally and politically powerful.
Then, we're breaking down one of the most potent symbols in America: the cowboy. Brittany revisits her conversation with New York Times culture critic J Wortham, and Museum of Contemporary Art Denver director Nora Burnett Abrams to unpack the history of the symbol and explain why it continues to lasso Americans.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Mavis Staples on Prince, MLK and a life onstage Jul 09, 2024

This week, the legendary singer and civil rights figure Mavis Staples is turning 85 and there's no sign of her slowing down: She released a new song, "Worthy," and a children's book, Bridges Instead of Walls: The Story of Mavis Staples.
Today, Mavis joins host Brittany Luse to share stories from her life: what it was like to be mentored by Mahalia Jackson, how she helped create the soundtrack for the Civil Rights movement, how she was spurned by the church then welcomed back, and what it was like to collaborate with Prince.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Defining 2024 so far; plus, why brands 'de-woked' Jul 05, 2024

It is the first week of July, which means we are officially halfway through the year. And what a year it's been! Brittany sat down with NPR Politics reporter Elena Moore and co-host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour Stephen Thompson, to take stock of what's happened so far in 2024.
Then, remember when brands weighed in on politics? Like when Gushers said Black Lives Matter or Pepsi made that Kendall Jenner ad? However, in the past few years brands seem to have shied away from touching on "woke" politics. And if advertising reflects culture, what does that say about our culture now? Brittany sits down with Michael Serazio, professor of communication at Boston University – who specializes in the study of advertising - to uncover what's at the root of the reversal.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A taste of Black Appalachia Jul 02, 2024

Too often, our attempts at nailing the family recipes end up in disaster and disappointment. This week, host Brittany Luse is joined by former Kentucky Poet Laureate Crystal Wilkinson, author of Praisesong for the Kitchenghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks. The two talk about Appalachian food culture, turning oral recipes into written ones, and the emotional relationship between food, family and memory.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Girl, that remix, so healing; plus, gay vampires Jun 28, 2024

The internet freaked out when Charli XCX and Lorde revealed - and put to rest - their pop girl rivalry on Charli's "Girl, so confusing" remix. That same day, Brandy and Monica seemed to settle their decades long feud when they appeared on the remix of Ariana Grande's version of "The Boy is Mine." But while the pop girls are healing, a lot of fans still seem to want blood - can this music heal us? To break it all down, Brittany is joined by NPR Music Editor Hazel Cills, and Pop Pantheon podcast host, DJ Louie XIV.
Then, AMC's Interview with the Vampire is back for a second season and so Brittany revisits her conversation with the star of the show, Jacob Anderson. But first, Brittany sits down with Black vampire aficionado, Kendra R. Parker to help understand what these monsters say about our fears and desires.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Can't stop the (classical) music Jun 25, 2024

It's Black Music month! This week, Host Brittany Luse invites Howard University professor and trombonist Myles Blakemore to talk about how classical music influenced some of our favorite musicians. They look at how the counterpoint technique of Johann Sebastian Bach may have inspired Nina Simone, and how a love of Ginuwine can turn into a career in classical music.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Fouling Caitlin Clark; plus, a shoplifting panic! Jun 21, 2024

First up, there has been a media frenzy around the fouls made against rising basketball star and Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark. Commentators and fans have called her fellow WNBA players bullies, jealous, and catty. But Code Switch co-host Gene Demby and Defector's Maitreyi Anantharaman say a lot of the people commenting misunderstand the WNBA. Host Brittany Luse learns what the new fans might be missing and how racism, sexism and homophobia could be fanning the flames of the latest hot takes. Brittany also leads Gene and Maitreyi through a game of "But Did You Know."
Then, what is up with all the deodorant being locked up in stores? It's not just you, it's a peculiar nationwide trend that Brittany is trying to understand. Vox policy correspondent Abdallah Fayyad and The Marshall Project's engagement editor Nicole Lewis join the show to explain how this is related to a big shoplifting panic and what it could mean for the shelf life of certain crime policies across the country.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Carvell Wallace searches for 'Another Word for Love' Jun 18, 2024

In his new memoir, Another Word for Love, Carvell Wallace lays out his journey to find self-acceptance after a childhood colored by instability. Host Brittany Luse sits down with Carvell to talk about how he built new language around love and his new perspectives on recovery and healing.
Want to be featured on IBAM? Record a voice memo responding to Brittany's question at the end of the episode and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Conservatives want to burn flags too; plus, the power of a singing POTUS Jun 14, 2024

Flags have been making a lot of headlines lately, and it's not because today is National Flag Day. The upside down flag that was flown outside of Justice Samuel Alito's house after January 6th is back in the headlines again. Plus the Colorado Republican Party has been making news for their post on X to "burn all the #pride flags this June." Host Brittany Luse is joined by Nick Capodice and Hannah McCarthy - hosts of NHPR's Civics 101 - to get into why both liberals and conservatives get so riled up by a piece of fabric.
Then, in honor of the Tony Awards this weekend, Brittany sits down with critic and playwright Sarah Jae Leiber. They talk about why there are so many presidents in American musical theater, the bizarreness of some of these portrayals and what the real politicians pulling the strings get out of it.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Cole Escola literally changes history in 'Oh, Mary!' Jun 11, 2024

Cole Escola is the star and creator of Oh Mary!, an upcoming Broadway play about Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln. But there's a twist: Mary is reimagined as a raging alcoholic with cabaret dreams and Lincoln is portrayed as an evil closeted gay man plotting on her misery. On the cusp of the show's Broadway debut, Brittany chats with Cole about the inspiration behind Oh Mary!, their favorite joke and why it's fun to play older women.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Republicans really want revenge; plus, can AI take a chill pill? Jun 07, 2024

What is our justice system for? Many Republicans over the past week have suggested it's for revenge, calling for the prosecution of Democrats across the country following Trump's guilty verdict. Brittany looks at how the justice system can be politicized with NPR's national justice correspondent Carrie Johnson and national political correspondent Mara Liasson.
Plus, we all have examples of how bad those those new artificial intelligence search engine results can be. So why does it seem like every tech company is all in on the hottest tech trend? Brittany gets into it with NPR's technology correspondent Bobby Allyn and disinformation correspondent Shannon Bond.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Devery Jacobs flies high in 'Backspot' Jun 04, 2024

Cheerleaders are canonical when it comes to teen media - but is it time we expand our idea of who cheerleaders can be? Devery Jacobs's new film, Backspot, explores the internal life of a cheerleading backspot - the person making sure those high-flying cheerleaders don't break their necks. Devery joins Brittany to talk about redefining the cheerleader for a new generation, and keeping her sense of integrity while navigating the film industry.
Want to be featured on the show? Record your response to Brittany's question at the end of 'Hey Brittany' via voice memo and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Is it time to re-name "summer?" Plus, prom fashion is all grown up May 31, 2024

Summer is supposed to be for vacation and more relaxation, right? Well, for climate watchers, this season goes by a more sinister name. Brittany and NPR climate correspondents Lauren Sommer and Nate Rott get into what changes in summer weather mean for how and where we live.
Then, it's prom season and high schoolers are showing out! But styles have changed since the days of poofy dresses and bedazzled purses: prom fashion has reportedly become more adult. For many young people, prom reflects their ideas of glamour, so does this shift say something new about the fantasies of girlhood? Brittany sits down with writer Hilary George-Parkin who wrote about the blurring of age in fashion.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

You think you know true crime podcasts? Wait till you hear Tonya's story. May 28, 2024

When a daughter or sister disappears how does a family move on without closure? Host Brittany Luse is joined by Fresh Air co-host Tonya Mosley and and her nephew Antonio Wiley. The two produced She Has A Name, a documentary podcastthat unravels the disappearance and death of Tonya's half-sister, Anita Wiley. Brittany, Tonya, and Antonio get into how Anita went missing, and how their show breaks the stereotypes of true crime podcasting.
Want to be featured on the show? Record your response to Brittany's question at the end of 'Hey Brittany' via voice memo and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Real Housewife-ification of Congress; And, 25 years of being pilled by The Matrix May 24, 2024

Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Jasmine Crockett exchanged heated words on the House floor. Greene commented on Crockett's eyelashes, and Crockett referred to Greene's body as "butch." We dive into the history of these two attacks, and look at what history the two representatives were pulling from — from misogynoir to transphobia. And what does this say about what we want from our politicians? Brittany is joined by NPR's Alana Wise and writer Kerry Manders.
Then, 'The Matrix' came out 25 years ago, and became an instant classic. It's a powerful story for both trans people and incels who "took the red pill." What makes the movie's core metaphor so widely appealing (and widely applicable)? Brittany is joined by critic Emily St. James and critic James Wilmes.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tony nominee Jocelyn Bioh puts braiders centerstage May 21, 2024

This week, Brittany Luse sits down with playwright Jocelyn Bioh, whose new play, Jaja's African Hair Braiding, is up for five Tony Award nominations, including Best Play. The two discuss Bioh's unique approach to comedy, what it took to bring a hair affair to Broadway, and how to find humor in dark situations.
Want to be featured on the show? Record your response to Brittany's question at the end of 'Hey Brittany' via voice memo and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bumble & the trap of modern dating; plus, living ethically in COVID's aftermath May 17, 2024

This week, the dating app Bumble could not stay out of the news. First, the company launched an anti-celibacy advertising campaign mocking abstinence and suggesting women shouldn't give up on dating apps. Then, at a tech summit, Bumble's founder suggested artificial intelligence might be the future of dating. Both efforts were met with backlash, and during a time when everyone seems irritated with dating - where can people turn? Shani Silver, author of the Cheaper Than Therapysubstack, and KCRW's Myisha Battle, dating coach and host of How's Your Sex Life? join the show to make sense of the mess.
Then, it's been four years since the start of the COVID pandemic. So much has changed - especially attitudes towards public health. Brittany talks to, Dr. Keisha S. Ray, a bioethicist, to hear how public health clashed with American culture - how we're supposed to live among people with different risk tolerance - and what all this means for the next pandemic.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The miracle of middle age with Miranda July May 14, 2024

Our culture is full of stories about what it's like to be young: to find yourself, to fall in love, to leave home. But there aren't nearly as many scripts for what middle age might look like, especially for women. This week, host Brittany Luse is joined by author and filmmaker Miranda July, whose new novel 'All Fours' dives deep into the mystery and miracle of being a middle aged woman.
Want to be featured on the show? Record a question via voice memo for 'Hey Brittany' and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Drake and Kendrick are beefing, but who pays? Plus, moms as our social safety net May 10, 2024

Drake and Kendrick have been trading diss tracks for weeks, and it's gotten darker and darker with each track. Drake accuses Kendrick of beating women, and Kendrick accuses Drake of abusing minors. It's a spectacle, but who are the pawns? Brittany chats with NPR Music's Sidney Madden and writer Tirhakah Love about the collateral damage in this rap beef.
Then, Brittany turns to Holding It Together a new book that describes how America has avoided building a social safety net and instead relies on women to provide the services that could be universal to all. Author Jessica Calarco joins the show to dive into the book and take a look at the cultural forces that keep women holding it all together.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A 'Wild Card' game with Rachel Martin May 09, 2024

NPR's Rachel Martin is the host of a new weekly podcast called Wild Card. It's part-interview, part-existential game show. In this episode, Brittany sits down to play the game with Rachel, which brings up some surprising emotions for the both of them.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Suburban decay and choking on nostalgia May 07, 2024

Brittany sits down with Jane Schoenbrun, the director of A24's coming of age horror film, I Saw The TV Glow. Brittany and Jane discuss suburban decay, delightfully creepy kids shows, and new metaphors for the trans experience.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

An inside look at the campus protests; plus, Israel at Eurovision May 03, 2024

Pro-Palestinian protests have been popping up at universities around the world, and in the last few days things have escalated at a number of those campuses. Columbia University called on police to shutdown the encampment on their university lawn and 300 people were arrested. At University of California Los Angeles, about 200 pro-Israel counter-protestors raided a pro-Palestinian encampment. To get first hand accounts of the protests, Brittany talks to two student journalists: Shaanth Nanguneri, an undergraduate reporter at UCLA, and Claire Davenport, a graduate reporter at Columbia University in New York.
Then, Eurovision may seem like a quaint, quirky event to Americans but it's a huge cultural event that easily surpasses the Super Bowl in terms of global viewership. And for an apolitical event, Eurovision can teach us a lot about geopolitics. This year, all eyes are on Israel, which is not European but has been a competitor since the 70s. With Israel's ongoing conflict in Gaza, there's a lot of politicking for and against its inclusion at the song contest. Brittany chats with Eurovision scholar Paul David Flood about Israel's controversial song and dance at Eurovision... and why Americans might want to pay attention.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Chicago's Black press shaped America Apr 30, 2024

Host Brittany Luse sits down with Arionne Nettles, author of We Are the Culture: Black Chicago's Influence on Everything. Arionne shares how Black media in Chicago influenced the way Black Americans see themselves and why the city deserves to be called 'the heart of Black America.'
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

TikTok gets the boot; plus, a 'tradwife' fantasy Apr 26, 2024

This week, President Biden signed a law that could ban TikTok nationwide unless its Chinese parent company sells the media platform within a year. Brittany is joined by NPR's Deirdre Walsh and Bobby Allyn to discuss the backdrop of this decision and its implications.
Then, the tradwife - aka "traditional wife" - has taken social media by storm. But there's more to this trend than homemade sourdough bread and homeschooled children. Writer Zoe Hu chats with Brittany about her article on the "fantasy" of the tradwife and what this influx in content says about how women feel about work and the modern world.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Dating skills vs. dating gimmicks in 'Love on the Spectrum' Apr 23, 2024

One of Brittany's latest TV obsessions has been Netflix's Love on the Spectrum. It's a reality series that follows several autistic adults as they wade through the dating pool, guided by relationship coach Jennifer Cook. Brittany sits down with Jennifer to unpack how her own experience with autism informs the advice she gives.
Then, Brittany is joined by Gender Reveal podcast host Tuck Woodstock and Flyest Fables producer Morgan Givens. Together, they discuss how the show deals with stereotypes, the problems baked into all dating shows and what it's like to watch the show as autistic viewers.
Want to be featured on It's Been A Minute? Record a voice note for 'Hey Brittany' and send it to IBAM.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The backlash against protests; plus, how OJ Simpson changed media forever Apr 19, 2024

Earlier this week, pro-Palestinian protestors blocked traffic on highways and bridges in San Francisco, Chicago, New York and Seattle. On that same day, the Supreme Court made it incredibly difficult to protest in a lot of the American South. In this episode, host Brittany Luse looks at the state of protest in America. She sits down with Sandhya Dirks, an NPR reporter who covers race and identity, and Elizabeth Blair, a senior arts reporter at NPR. Together, they discuss shifting attitudes towards protest as well as new anti-protest legislation. Then, they play a game of But Did You Know?
After that, we take a look back at OJ Simpson and his impact on culture. Brittany is joined by NPR's Mandalit Del Barco and Eric Deggans to hear their account of how OJ shifted media and television as we know it. He's had an outsized influence on everything from true-crime, to TMZ, to the Kardashians.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

An argument for the art of whistling Apr 16, 2024

Some of us whistle while we work, but what happens when your work is whistling? This week, host Brittany Luse is joined by professional whistler, Molly Lewis. Lewis' catalogue spans across the film and music industries, from features on the Barbie soundtrack to performances alongside Karen O. From NPR's New York Bureau, Brittany sits down with Lewis to talk about the world of competitive whistling, how she hones a craft many people see as fidgeting, and why older generations are more likely to whistle. This episode also features a special live performance with songs from Lewis' new album, On The Lips.
Want to be featured on the show? Record a question via voice memo for 'Hey Brittany' and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The car culture wars; plus, the problem with child stars Apr 12, 2024

President Biden has been pushing new regulations to promote electric vehicle production to combat the climate crisis — and former president Trump is using those regulations as a talking point against Biden. To break down how cars became the latest weapons in the culture wars, host Brittany Luse is joined by NPR's transportation correspondent Camila Domonoske and Dan Brekke, a reporter and editor at KQED in San Francisco who covers transit. Together, they talk about why Americans are so invested in their cars — and how cars became more than just a policy battle.
Then Brittany discusses a new HBO documentary series that is making waves right now: Quiet On Set. The show alleges a pattern of sexual harassment behind the scenes at Nickelodeon, and includes interviews with several former child stars describing experiences that range from taking part in sexualized gags to facing downright sexual abuse while working for the network. Brittany looks closer at the trouble with child performers with Joan Summers and Matthew Lawson, co-hosts of the Eating for Free podcast. They discuss what makes child performers especially vulnerable to abuse — and they ask why society demands performances from children.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Boots with the spurs: 'Cowboy Carter' and the need for validation Apr 09, 2024

Grab your cowboy hat, and saddle up that horse, because Beyoncé's highly anticipated album, Cowboy Carter is here. So far, the album has spurred praise, criticism, and questions about what the actual goal of this project is and how it fits into the Renaissance trilogy. To get into all of that, Brittany joined NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour to discuss whether this foray into country is an exercise in experimentation or industry validation.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Is DEI a slur now? Plus, control & basketball Apr 05, 2024

Following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore last week, the city's 39 year old mayor, Brandon Scott, a Black man, stepped out to address the crisis. Hours later, a tweet went viral calling Scott a "DEI Mayor." To which Brittany and her guests, NPR's Gene Demby and Alana Wise, say "wait what?" The three dig into the racism lurking under the surface of this kind of rhetoric.
Then, as March Madness reaches its final nail-biting stages, Brittany takes a look at the reality of "student-athletes." What may feel like an accurate descriptor of these players is actually a legal classification that bars them from asking for worker's compensation and other benefits - benefits usually given to employees. Brittany is joined by sports business reporter Amanda Christovich and Assistant Professor of Legal Studies in Business at Boise State University Sam Ehrlich. They discuss how the recent news of Dartmouth men's basketball team unionizing opens up doors for broader conversations around how we value "work."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The hidden costs of hair braiding Apr 03, 2024

This week, we're revisiting an exploration of hair braiding gone wrong. Online, women looking to get box braids have gone viral with their complaints about confusing pricing structures, minimal care, and poor customer service. Brittany Luse chats with public historian and YouTuber Jouelzy to get an overview of the tension. Then, Jessica Poitras, legislative counsel for the Institute of Justice, joins the show to talk about the legal roadblocks many hair braiders face in setting up their businesses. And later, Brittany is joined by stylist Tyré Rimple to discuss the hidden costs behind braiding. This segment first aired last summer.
Want to be featured on the show? Record a question for 'Hey Brittany' and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Harvard's TikTok strategy; plus, Shirley Chisholm, the coalition diva Mar 29, 2024

TikTok has come under fire for its addictive algorithm and for being a place where misinformation spreads. But still, there is one institution that thinks TikTok actually has the potential to be a source of good in our world: Harvard. To be more specific, it's the Harvard Chan Center for Health Communication.
To hear more about how the center is working with TikTok influencers to share researched information with the public, host Brittany Luse is joined by Kate Speer. Kate started as a mental health TikToker, but was recently hired as a marketing director for the Harvard Chan Center for Health Communication. Kate also shares her mental health journey and what it's been like to work within a mental health system that harmed her.
Then, Brittany looks at the history left out of the new Netflix film, Shirley, which follows the presidential run of Shirley Chisholm. Brittany sits down with Dr. Anastasia C. Curwood, author of Shirley Chisholm: Champion of Black Feminist Power Politics, to discuss what came before the historic race. They talk about how Shirley's various identities informed her approach, and scan for her fingerprint on American electoral politics today.
Want to be featured on the show? Record a question for 'Hey Brittany' and send it to ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Love Lies Bleeding' and the fear and allure of strong women Mar 26, 2024

Erotic thrillers are meant to be sexy, bloody, and fun. The best of them also deal with shifts in culture that people are anxious about: Fatal Attraction was about the threat of working single women, and Basic Instinct got into bisexual panic. A hot new erotic thrillertakes on women's strength and capacity for rage: Love Lies Bleeding is an 80's fantasia of big muscles and big hair with steamy sexy scenes and thrilling plot twists. It follows the story of a bodybuilder named Jackie, played by Katy O'Brian, who falls madly in love with gym manager Lou, played by Kristen Stewart. Host Brittany Luse sat down with Katy O'Brian to talk about strong women and the fantasy of wielding the rage that lurks just under the surface.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Brittany talks bad accents and bad sex Mar 22, 2024

Dune: Part Two is a marvel of cinematic wonder. Amongst all the chatter around the cinematography and lore, Brittany also noticed that there was a particular fascination with Austin Butler's accent. Butler is no stranger to a distinctive voice - he was Elvis after all. But the discourse around what makes a good or bad accent made Brittany want to revisit a conversation with New York Times reporter Kyle Buchanan. In this interview from last year, Kyle makes the case that bad accents make movies more fun.
Then, Brittany turns from bad accents to bad sex. What may feel like a personal problem is actually an indicator of bigger social issues, at least according to Nona Willis Aronowitz. Her book, Bad Sex: Truth, Pleasure, and an Unfinished Revolution, tackles the historic and systemic causes of unsatisfying sex. Brittany and Nona spoke last year about where bad sex comes from and what could be done about it.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The spectacular femininity of bimbos and 'Barbie' Mar 19, 2024

Awards season is finally over and even though Oppenheimer took home the top prize for best picture at the Oscars, Barbie still seemed to be a fan favorite. To celebrate the final close of the Barbie movie press run, we revisit an episode from last year about the spectacular femininity of Barbie girls.
Host Brittany Luse sits down with Hannah McCann, a lecturer at the University of Melbourne who specializes in critical femininity studies. They discuss how both Barbie and real-life bimbos are criticized for being bad role models, and yet their carefree, maximalist, hyper-feminine approach might actually be a little subversive.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The déjà vu election; plus, losing faith in politics in "Great Expectations" Mar 15, 2024

The 2024 presidential election will be a rematch between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden; and with that rematch comes political fanfare, some public apathy and déjà vu. To take a look at the public perception of this repeat race, host Brittany Luse is joined by NPR political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben and NPR White House Correspondent Franco Ordoñez.
Then, Brittany is joined by Vinson Cunningham to discuss his debut novel, Great Expectations. It's a period piece that follows the story of a young man working on an election campaign that echoes that of Obama's 2008 run. Ultimately, it's a novel about belief - both religious and political. Brittany and Vinson discuss American politics as a sort of religion - and why belief in politics has changed so much in the last decade.
To end the show, Brittany shares her thoughts about "Kate Gate" and the mysterious case of royal photoshopping.
One more thing: we are working on a special series for IBAM about the gender divide and we want to talk to YOU. We're looking for people aged 18-24 for a roundtable interview on everything from dating, money, politics, and your future hopes. If you're interested in joining us, email our producers: ibam@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Jennifer Lopez's love affair with love Mar 12, 2024

It's basically spring - which means wedding season is starting to rev up. And no one does weddings quite like Jennifer Lopez - both on-screen and off. Host Brittany Luse revisits her conversation with New York Magazine features writer Rachel Handler to break down J.Lo's wedding planning movies, how they add to J.Lo's brand, and what they say about our investment in the real-life wedding industrial complex.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

And the winner is... outrage? Plus, if the economy is good, why does it feel bad? Mar 09, 2024

This weekend's Oscars ceremony will mark the close of awards season. But what has been an exciting year in film seems to have turned into an opportunity for outrage over snubs, "firsts" and more. Host Brittany Luse wants to know: Is the discourse over awards season stifling our love of art? Brittany is joined by Aisha Harris, co-host of Pop Culture Happy Hour and author of the essay "Award shows have become outrage generators. Surely there's another way?"
Then, politicians and economists are constantly telling us the economy is good. But with high grocery prices, high interest rates, and high rent - Brittany feels like there's something lost in translation. To get to the bottom of it all, The Indicator co-host Darian Woods joins the show to shed some light on what exactly makes this economy good while also feeling kind of bad.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'The Harlem Renaissance' and what is Black art for? Mar 05, 2024

It's Been a Minute host Brittany Luse and producer Liam McBain took a little field trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York — and after having a Gossip Girl moment on the steps, they saw a brand-new exhibit: The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism. Brittany and Liam explored the exhibit's wide-ranging subject matter: paintings, photographs, explosive scenes of city life, and quiet portraits of deep knowing — but they also learned that the Harlem Renaissance started a lot of the cultural debates we're still having about Black art today. Like — what is Black art for? And how do Black artists want to represent themselves? After the show, Brittany sat down with the curator, Denise Murrell, to dig a little deeper into how the Harlem Renaissance laid the groundwork for Black modernity.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Three ways to think about journalism layoffs; plus, Aaron Bushnell's self-immolation Mar 01, 2024

The American journalism industry is in crisis - layoffs, strikes, and site shutdowns have some people talking about the potential extinction of the the news industry as we know it. Just last week, VICE Media announced their plans to layoff hundreds of employees and halt website operations. Taylor Lorenz, the Washington Post online culture and technology columnist, joins the show to unpack what is at stake with the continued media closures and layoffs.
Then, Brittany is joined by Deva Woodly, a professor of Political Science at Brown University. They discuss Aaron Bushnell's self-immolation outside the Israeli embassy in DC. They look at how this extreme act of protest is unique and how it might impact the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Da'Vine Joy Randolph on 'The Holdovers' and becoming a matriarch Feb 27, 2024

Da'Vine Joy Randolph just keeps winning — she's won best supporting actress for her role in The Holdovers at the BAFTAs, the Golden Globes, and Critics Choice Awards, and now she's up for an Oscar. And her performance as Mary Lamb, the head cook at a boy's boarding school in 1970's Massachusetts, really is awards worthy. Mary is no-nonsense, but loving, and grieving a son who's been killed in the Vietnam War. It's a moving and subtle portrayal of grief. Da'Vine says part of the success of her performance is owed to the quality of the script and of her collaborators, but she also has an awe-inspiring character creation process. Host Brittany Luse sat down with Da'Vine to chat about how she conveys a character's spirit – and the personal stories she drew from to build this particular performance - while at the same time battling Hollywood stereotypes about curvy Black women.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Have we hit celebrity overload? Plus, Miyazaki's movie magic Feb 23, 2024

Brittany feels like we've entered a new phase of celebrity oligarchy; new celebrity business enterprises are popping up daily, and we can't seem to get away from it all. But is this new? Brittany invites culture journalists Bobby Finger and Lindsey Weber to discuss how the notion of celebrity is changing, and what it means for us.
Then, we turn to Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary animator-director whose latest film, The Boy and the Heron, is a frontrunner at this year's Academy Awards. Brittany is joined by Jessica Neibel, Senior Exhibitions Curator at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, to unpack the life lessons Miyazaki's films offer, from the unreliability of adults to the messages of resilience rooted in Miyazaki's own postwar childhood.
If you have 10 minutes, please do the team at It's Been a Minute a huge favor by taking a short, anonymous survey about the show at npr.org/ibamsurvey. Tell us what you like and how we could improve the show!
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Jada Pinkett Smith, the artist Feb 20, 2024

Jada Pinkett Smith is the kind of celebrity that makes headlines just by breathing. But looking at those headlines — mostly about her marriage to fellow actor, Will Smith — made host Brittany Luse think that most people have gotten Jada all wrong. A graduate of the Baltimore School for the Arts, Jada's best known for her acting, but she's also a producer, musician, and painter. After reading her memoir, Worthy, Brittany noticed the way Jada's artistic mind and process had been overlooked. So, she sat down with Jada to ask about it. They talked about what Jada's painting, what she got out of her time as a rock singer, why she looks at her relationship with Will as a masterpiece, and what she wants for her future.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Legendary choreographer Fatima Robinson on moving through changes in dance Feb 16, 2024

Choreographer Fatima Robinson has had an incredibly prolific career: she gave us the iconic King Tut-style moves from Michael Jackson's 'Remember the Time' music video, she taught us how to 'Rock the Boat' with Aaliyah, and she was head choreographer on Beyoncé's Renaissance tour. And all through that time, she's moved through all kinds of changes in how we dance – including Tik Tok. Host Brittany Luse chats with Robinson about how she pulls rhythm out of stars – and what causes the dance moves of the day to change.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Unlocking desire through smut; plus, the gospel of bell hooks Feb 14, 2024

This week, we're asking: do the fantasies we read in romance novels say anything about what we want in our real-life relationships? Devoted readers share how the genre has impacted their love lives. Host Brittany Luse revisits her conversation with writer Rebekah Weatherspoon about how she builds a world of desire.
Then, we revisit our talk with Dr. Gale E. Greenlee, teacher-scholar in residence at the bell hooks center in Berea Kentucky, about lasting impact of bell hooks' work, and how she changed the way we think about love.
If you have 10 minutes, please do the team at It's Been a Minute a huge favor by taking a short, anonymous survey about the show at npr.org/ibamsurvey. Tell us what you like and how we could improve the show!
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A Super Bowl in 'new Vegas'; plus, the inverted purity of the Stanley Cup Feb 10, 2024

This weekend, Vegas hit the jackpot. For the first time ever, Sin City will host the Super Bowl; and the halftime headliner is the current Vegas residency darling - Usher. But, NPR Senior Editor Bilal Qureshi says this royal flush was years in the making. Bilal joins host Brittany Luse to share his experience covering the city's journey from 'Old Vegas' to 'New Vegas,' as new hotels, concert venues, and artist residencies bring Vegas to a new market - millennials.
Then, Brittany turns her sights to the Stanley Cup. No, not the hockey championship but the colorful tumblers taking the internet by storm. The frenzy for a new collectible is never surprising, but the very thing that goes inside it - water - has The Wellness Trap author Christy Harrison wondering if this is just another extension of diet and wellness culture gone sideways.
If you have 10 minutes, please do the team at It's Been a Minute a huge favor by taking a short, anonymous survey about the show at npr.org/ibamsurvey. Tell us what you like and how we could improve the show!
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Sam Reich on revamping the game show - and Dropout's success as a small streamer Feb 06, 2024

It seems like there are countless streamers these days – there's Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Max, Peacock, Roku, just to name a few. Still, success and profit remain elusive to even some of the biggest in the biz. However there is one smaller streamer that seems to have found a path to prosperity: Dropout. IBAM host Brittany Luse sat down with Dropout CEO Sam Reich to find out how his company is forging a path to success in a successful market, all while revamping the gameshow format. The pair also play a little game.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Charlamagne tha Pundit?; plus, was Tony Soprano white? Feb 02, 2024

Charlamagne tha God has been dominating hip-hop radio for years, and lately, his influence has extended far beyond the music industry; for better or worse, Charlamagne has become one of the go-to voices for political discourse in the Black community. And while his comments often resonate with The Breakfast Club audience, they've also been picked up by political operatives across party lines. This week, Brittany sits down with Democratic pollster Terrance Woodbury and POLITICO National Correspondent Brakkton Booker to discuss Charlamagne's power as a pundit and if tha God's politics are indicative of larger trends among Black voters.
Then, Brittany turns to a classic television show that just celebrated it's 25th anniversary: HBO's The Sopranos. Although the show wrapped years ago, it remains a deeply salient portrayal of assimilation and conditional whiteness. Brittany chats with author Morgan Jerkins about whiteness in America and why the show's commentary on Italian Americans resonated with them as Black women.
To end the show, Brittany passes the mic to music journalist Naima Cochrane to answer a question about the Nicki Minaj and Megan thee Stallion beef.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Ayesha Rascoe on 'HBCU Made' — and some good old college memories Jan 30, 2024

We're taking it way back — all the way to college. This episode is a mini-reunion: host Brittany Luse and Ayesha Rascoe, host of NPR's Weekend Edition, are both alumnae of Howard University — they even attended during some of the same years. Howard is an HBCU: a historically Black college or university. There are around a hundred in the US, and they've had a big impact on both graduates and American culture writ large. Ayesha has edited a book of essays all about that impact, called HBCU Made: A Celebration of the Black College Experience. Brittany chats with her about the book and what makes HBCUs special — they also trade tales from their own time as students.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

South Africa's case for preventing genocide in Palestine; plus, why people love cults Jan 26, 2024

This morning, the International Court of Justice shared a decision on South Africa's genocide case against Israel. The courts found sufficient evidence that it's "plausible" that Israel has committed acts of genocide in Gaza and ruled that Israel must prevent genocidal attacks. Earlier this week, host Brittany Luse sat down with South African journalist Redi Tlhabi to look at the context of this story and lay out how the histories of Israel and South Africa factor into this moment.
Then, Brittany chats with Professor Poulomi Saha about America's obsession with cults. With so many shows choose from, cult documentaries could now be seen as their own genre. But what might our fascination with cults reveal about society's shortfalls?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Benny Safdie on 'The Curse' — and performing goodness Jan 23, 2024

Director and actor Benny Safdie is probably best known for co-directing the film Uncut Gems, but he's also acted in Oppenheimer, Licorice Pizza, and one of host Brittany Luse's personal favorites: Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret. In his latest project, Safdie co-created and acts in Showtime's The Curse. It's an intensely uncomfortable examination of the smoke and mirrors behind your favorite home improvement shows, but it's also a marriage drama – and it picks apart our desire to seem like good people, rather than being good people.
Host Brittany Luse sits down with Safdie to learn what makes home improvement shows both soothing and sinister — and the difference between do-gooders and seem-gooders. They also play a game where they're forced to distinguish reality from fiction.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The political power of white Evangelicals; plus, Biden and the Black church Jan 19, 2024

For decades, Evangelicals have propped up Republican presidents. And while church attendance has fallen across the board, Evangelicals are still making waves politically; they just helped deliver Trump a historic win in the Iowa caucus. But the political bent of Evangelicals begs for closer inspection because white Americans who align with Trump are more likely to start identifying as Evangelical, even if some of them no longer sit up in the pews. NPR Political Correspondent Sarah McCammon joins the show to dig into host Brittany Luse's question: are Evangelicals now a religious group or a political one?
Then, after calls for a ceasefire interrupted President Biden's speech at Mother Emanuel AME Church, many people denounced the protest saying that it was not the right time or place. But Brittany wonders; if not there, then where? She sits down with Dr. Anthea Butler, religious scholar and chair of the department of Religious Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, to dive into the roots of political activism within the Black church. They also look at the complicated relationship between Democrats and the Black church.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Anna Deavere Smith plays real Americans on stage - and she shares her lessons Jan 16, 2024

Anna Deavere Smith is an acclaimed actress, journalist, and playwright. She's a pioneer of what's known as 'verbatim theater,' which is performance based on conversations and interviews with real people. But after decades of becoming thousands of Americans on stage, what has she learned about our nation? Host Brittany Luse sat down with Deavere Smith in studio to hear her unique perspective about who — and what — America is.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The life lessons Fantasia brought to 'The Color Purple'; plus, Personal Style 101 Jan 12, 2024

Fantasia Barrino-Taylor is picking up awards buzz for her portrayal of Celie in The Color Purple, and Brittany is sitting down with the former American Idol winner to look at the path she took from high school dropout to potential Oscar nominee. Brittany and Fantasia explore how her journey in life has made her come to love the character she plays, and even heal some old wounds along the way.
Then, after living through the fast churn of microtrends, social media influencers are embracing the trendiest anti-trend in fashion: "personal style." And while personal style is the it-girl, other fashion trends may be around the corner. Will 2024 be the most conservative fashion year yet? We turn to Washington Post fashion writer Rachel Tashjian to talk about personal style, why it's trending, and what to look for in 2024.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

American Fiction is a rich story — but is it a successful satire? Jan 09, 2024

American Fiction is a movie you can spend hours discussing. Based on Percival Everett's novel Erasure, the movie is a satire of what the publishing industry wants from Black authors. The film also belongs to a lineage of Black movies that look at selling out in the entertainment industry: from CB4 to Hollywood Shuffle. But does American Fiction say anything new? Host Brittany Luse chats with Aisha Harris, NPR culture critic and co-host of Pop Culture Happy Hour, about her essay on what American Fiction gets right — and the cultural marks it misses.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Looking ahead to the 2024 election; plus, getting "sober curious" for Dry January Jan 05, 2024

This week, host Brittany Luse is starting with the biggest story of the year - the upcoming presidential election. The economy, foreign policy, reproduction rights have all been top of mind lately - but how will these issues play out in the voting booth? NPR's Danielle Kurtzleben and Domenico Montanaro join the show to talk about what might sway voters in November.
Next, Brittany tackles a popular New Year's tradition: Dry January. Last year, one out of every seven American adults participated in Dry January, and one in three say they want to drink less in general. Writer and journalist Ana Marie Cox joins the show to discuss the growing interest in sobriety. She shares what's contributed to this "non-alcoholic" moment, who benefits, and the lessons she's learned as a recovering alcoholic.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Ross Gay on inciting joy while dining with sorrow Jan 02, 2024

Looking for joy? Then it might be worth exploring your sorrow. In his collection of essays, Inciting Joy, poet Ross Gay considers the breadth of joy, arguing that it can be found – and even strengthened – in life's hardest moments. After all, those are the times when we rely on one another. Brittany Luse sits down with the poet to discuss the complexity of joy and creating meaning in life.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Oh Me Oh My': Finding grace after something hellified (a New Year's story) Dec 29, 2023

To close out the year, Brittany is sitting down with Lonnie Holley. He's a painter, sculptor, and musician who released his latest album, Oh Me Oh My, in early 2023. In it he sings of his difficult childhood growing up in Jim Crow Alabama where he was sold, beat, and effectively enslaved. But today he sings of hope. He's been on a journey to heal his pain, and the pain of the generations that came before and the ones that will follow. It's a story of gratitude.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why grief sometimes looks like a hyphy party Dec 26, 2023

On August 11, 1973, hip-hop was born at a house party in the Bronx. 50 years later the genre has been reshaped in the image of cities and regions around the world. Brittany is joined by KQED's Pendarvis Harshaw to do a deep dive into one hip-hop scene from the Bay Area known as hyphy. They unpack how the loud, brash, hyperactive music helped a community grieve.
To hear more of Pendarvis Harshaw's reporting on this Bay Area music scene, check out the Rightnowish series: Hyphy Kids Got Trauma.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why does flying suck so much? Dec 22, 2023

Flying can be a frustrating experience, but holiday travel tends to shift our stress levels into overdrive. Overbooking, delays, lost baggage, and long TSA lines are just the tip of the iceberg. Even pricey membership services can't promise a completely efficient or comfortable travel journey. With big price tags and the quality of service seemingly going down, host Brittany Luse wondered: How did we get here? To answer that question, aviation and travel journalist Benét J. Wilson joins the show to give us a birds eye view of the issues and why things may not be getting better anytime soon.
Then, Brittany takes on one of the most recognizable stories in Christmas lore - A Christmas Carol. To celebrate the iconic story, she plays Spot the Scrooge with NPR critics Linda Holmes and Bob Mondello.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

2023: The year of the celebrity memoir Dec 19, 2023

2023 has been huge for the celebrity memoir game: Britney Spears, Prince Harry and Jada Pinkett Smith are just a few of the many A-listers who dropped bestsellers. But which memoirs should you actually read? To help parse through the pages, Brittany Luse is joined - once again - by Celebrity Memoir Book Club hosts Ashley Hamilton and Claire Parker. They each share their favorite memoirs of the year and discuss what these books reveal about the machinations of fame.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The IBAMmys: The It's Been A Minute 2023 Culture Awards Show Dec 15, 2023

Welcome to the first ever IBAMmys, the It's Been A Minute 2023 culture awards show! It's been a minute - a whole year - and we're looking back at the biggest cultural moments of the past 365 days. Host Brittany Luse, NPR's Ayesha Rascoe, and Vox's senior pop culture correspondent Alex Aband-Santos all made nominations for each category, and a select group of culture experts at NPR voted for who should take home the prize.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Music trends that took us by surprise in 2023 Dec 12, 2023

It's been an eventful year for music; we saw the rise of Mexican Regional music on the charts, the emergence of AI artists, and the dominance of country music to boot. Host Brittany Luse chats with Nate Sloan and Charlie Harding, co-hosts of the podcast Switched on Pop, to break down what's behind the latest pop music trends — and to share some of their 2023 favorites.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Nicki Minaj's bars, Barbz and beefs; plus, why 2023 was the year of the cowboy Dec 08, 2023

Nicki Minaj just released her first album in half a decade, Pink Friday 2. The self-proclaimed 'Queen of Rap' has an unparalleled career, but the rap game - and women's position within it - has changed dramatically during her hiatus. While Nicki helped shape rap today, the artist has also faced a slew of controversies and an erratic album rollout that all have us asking: is Nicki still the verified 'Queen of Rap'? Host Brittany Luse sits down with NPR Music Editor and Louder Than A Riot host Sidney Madden to discuss.
Then, we're breaking down one of the most powerful symbols in America: the cowboy. Brittany is joined by New York Times culture critic J Wortham, and Museum of Contemporary Art Denver director Nora Burnett Abrams to unpack the history of the symbol and explain why it continues to lasso Americans.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The 'Renaissance' film and what we hear in Beyoncé's silence Dec 05, 2023

In the credits for 'Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé' the Queen Bee makes it clear who is in charge. Written by? Beyoncé. Directed by? Beyoncé. Produced by? Beyoncé. And of course, starring...Beyoncé. For someone who is so in control of their own image, what is spoken and what is unspoken are equally loud.
In this episode, Brittany and B.A. Parker, co-host of NPR's Code Switch, get into key takeaways from the film and why people are calling on her to speak directly to today's politics.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

McCarthyism and queerness in 'Fellow Travelers'; plus, IBAM unplugged with Olivia Dean Dec 01, 2023

This week, Brittany chats with New Yorker television critic Inkoo Kang about Showtime's historical romance, Fellow Travelers. The show follows the lives and love of two closeted men - Hawk and Tim. It starts in 1950s Washington DC, at the height of McCarthyism and the lavender scare and continues through the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. Brittany and Inkoo discuss how the politics of the time shape the characters and how survival isn't always pretty.
Then, we switch gears and meet an artist that's been bringing Brittany joy in the cold winter months. Singer-songwriter Olivia Dean joins the show to talk her debut album, Messy, and gives IBAM an unforgettable live performance from her catalog.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

All The Only Ones: I can't wait Nov 28, 2023

This week we're bringing you a special episode from the Embedded series 'All the Only Ones.' The series looks at the history of trans youth next to the realities experienced by trans youth today. In this episode, we meet Parker, a senior in high school in Columbus, Ohio. Parker is a top field hockey athlete, but as a trans person, he is faced with making a difficult decision: either pursuing his dreams as a D1 trans field hockey player in college next year, or pursuing his dreams of starting hormone replacement therapy, which could get him banned from playing. We also meet two historical trans youth of the 1960s, Vicky and Donna, both facing barriers to getting the care and treatment they need after repeatedly looking for help.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Defending the Disney Adult; plus, what it takes to stand up for Black trans people Nov 24, 2023

Disney recently celebrated its 100th birthday, so we're exploring a fandom that's kept the magic alive while also generating lots of online hate: Disney Adults. To break the phenomenon down, Brittany Luse chats with Rolling Stone senior writer and self-proclaimed Disney Adult, E.J. Dickson. Their conversation looks at the rise of Disney Adults, why they're so maligned and what the public may misunderstand about these superfans.
Then, in honor of Trans Day of Remembrance, Brittany talks with influential Black trans activist Raquel Willis. They get into her new memoir, The Risk It Takes to Bloom, which looks at pivotal moments in her organizing journey alongside the movement for Black Lives and the rise of trans visibility in modern culture.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How gratitude improves your relationships and your future Nov 21, 2023

For the millions of Americans that celebrate Thanksgiving, it's a time when a lot of us reflect on the things and the people in our lives that we appreciate. But according to Dr. Laurie Santos, psychology professor at Yale and host of the podcast, The Happiness Lab, a practice of gratitude can improve our lives year-round. Host Brittany Luse chats with Dr. Santos about the surprising science of how gratitude can affect our brains — and how it leads us to be more generous with our future selves.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The return of Andre 3000; plus, 'Rap Sh!t' puts the music industry on blast Nov 17, 2023

As many male rappers seem to become more depressed or vindictive in their lyrics, the women of rap appear to be having all the fun. One show that captures this moment is Rap Sh!t on Max. Brittany sits down with the showrunner and writer, Syreeta Singleton. They discuss the complexities of navigating the rap game as a Black woman, the new social media landscape, and how rap and Rap Sh!t approach sexuality.
Then, a conversation with Andre 3000. After 17 years, the rapper, producer, and instrumentalist is back with a new album, New Blue Sun. Notably, this album has no rapping and focuses on the artists passion for the flute. In honor of the occasion, host Brittany Luse passes the mic to NPR colleague and host, Rodney Carmichael. In this excerpt of their hour long interview, Rodney and Andre retrace the artist's journey from rapper to flautist, the beauty of aging, and why there should be more celebration in death.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pressing pause on 'Killers Of The Flower Moon' and rethinking Scorsese's latest Nov 14, 2023

Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon is everything an Oscar contender might be - long, epic, morally complicated and expensive. Yet, while many movie-goers left theaters moved, others called the film a problematic disaster. Today on the show, we hear what the movie got wrong and how it fits into a broader history of Native Americans on screen. To unpack this, Brittany Luse is joined by Robert Warrior, a literature and professor and an Osage Nation citizen, Liza Black, a Native American and Indigenous Studies professor and Cherokee Nation citizen, and Nancy Marie Mithlo, a gender studies professor and Fort Sill Chiricahua Warm Springs Apache citizen.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Barbra Streisand says she's not a diva - she's a director Nov 10, 2023

The season of the celebrity memoir is upon us. In just the past few months Britney Spears, Jada Pinkett Smith, Kerry Washington, and more have showered us with bombshells and revelations about their origin stories and private lives. Despite those heavy hitters and the crowded field they occupy, the celebrity memoir our host Brittany Luse coveted most is that of the singular Ms. Barbra Streisand.
Brittany sits down with Barbra to talk about her new memoir, My Name is Barbra, her struggle to take creative control of her work, and what legacy she wants to leave behind.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What restaurant trends tell us about the economy and culture Nov 07, 2023

The restaurant industry has been making headlines lately. Fine dining heavyweights are shuttering: Noma announced it would be closing in 2024 and NYC staple Momofuku Ko closed this past weekend. Then, there's the unintentional chaos caused by a popular Tiktok food critic, whose visit to Atlanta was so profound that it drowned out the debut of the city's first ever Michelin Guide.
After seeing all of this, host Brittany Luse wants to know: What's up with restaurants these days? To answer that question, she sits down with writer and Eater correspondent Jaya Saxena to get the lowdown on the most recent food news and the trends that tell us about both our interests and our economy.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

"The Gilded Age" and the trouble with American period pieces Nov 03, 2023

The Gilded Age delighted audiences with its lavish sets, decadent costumes and social sniping when it debuted. Lucky for us, the period drama just returned to HBO Max with a second season. But if we look a little closer at the show, it reveals what we truly want out of period pieces: to remake the past with our modern sensibilities and values. As Brandon Taylor wrote in his essay called "morgan spector pls break me in half," The Gilded Age engenders "self-delusion" about our history – because to reflect our past more accurately, would be "too horrifying" for a somewhat soapy show. Brittany Luse sits down with Brandon to discuss sentimentality, why we're particularly drawn to this era now and how it's portrayal could be done better.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What makes 'The Real Housewives' so addictive? (Classic) Oct 31, 2023

It's a big week for fans of reality TV - it's Bravocon 2023. This year it's in Las Vegas – and while we couldn't make it to Vegas, we're revisiting what we learned from last year's Bravocon in New York. Host Brittany Luse and producer Liam McBain talked to fans, a producer, an academic and the Housewives themselves to understand what makes The Real Housewives peak culture – as in the #1 topic in the group chat – for so many people.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's Britney, bestseller! Oct 27, 2023

Britney Spears just released one of the most hotly anticipated celebrity memoirs of the year, The Woman In Me. The book details her meteoric rise to fame, her family history, and her 13 year-long conservatorship. This week, host Britney Luse talks to the two best people to break it all down: Claire Parker and Ashley Hamilton, comedians and co-hosts of the Celebrity Memoir Book Club podcast. Together they look at what the princess of pop is trying to tell us, how she contextualizes her own story and how she doesn't seem to implicate the audience in her abuse.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The new "final girl" in horror; plus, who's afraid of a horny hag? Oct 24, 2023

Halloween is upon us — and it's the season for horror movies. Host Brittany Luse is a HUGE horror girlie, but loving horror also means critiquing it. Today, we're breaking down two major figures in horror: the final girl and the horny hag. First, Brittany chats with Dr. Kinitra Brooks, Audrey and John Leslie Endowed Chair of Literary Studies at Michigan State University, about what it means when the final girl is a Black woman. And later, Brittany is joined by horror author and film critic Gretchen Felker-Martin to discuss what's behind the horny hags in movies like X and Barbarian — and what that trope tells us about how we feel about older women in our society.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Misinformation & uninformed comments are clogging war coverage; plus, Tupac's legacy Oct 20, 2023

A warning: This episode contains explicit language and mentions of rape.
For the past two weeks, social media has been flooded with coverage and commentary on the conflict between Israel and Hamas. And while the news updates have been devastating, not everything coming across our feeds has been true. We've seen footage pulled from a video game purporting to show a Hamas fighter shooting down a helicopter, and a fake memo from the White House that claimed to announce $8 billion in military aid. This week, host Brittany Luse is joined by NPR correspondent Shannon Bond to learn why we're seeing so much misinformation online. Brittany is also joined by Molly McPherson, a crisis public relations expert, to unpack the hasty public statements about the conflict made by corporate brands and celebrities. They discuss how this may be indicative of a new media landscape that demands commentary and sentimentality.
Then, we turn to Tupac Shakur. He is back in the news 27 years after his death, following the first arrest of a suspect connected to his murder. Joel Anderson, a Slate reporter who covered Tupac for the Slow Burn podcast, joins Brittany to discuss Tupac's complex impact and how the rapper has been able to stay relevant almost three decades after his passing.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Code Switch: Baltimore teens are fighting for environmental justice — and winning Oct 17, 2023

From our friends at Code Switch, we present a story about one group of student activists in Baltimore and how their efforts to make their neighborhood healthier has them facing big coal — and actually making gains.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are 100% in a PR relationship. Here's how we know. Oct 13, 2023

Taylor Swift and her maybe boyfriend, Kansas Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, have been inescapable the past few weeks. The pop superstar has been showing up at Chiefs games, and the NFL has been playing it up - all to the mutual benefit of each party involved. Regardless of if the three of them - Taylor, Travis, and the NFL - are in a romantic polycule, public relations expert Molly McPherson says they are for sure in a PR relationship. Brittany and Molly get into how PR relationships work for celebrities — from pop superstars to politicians.
Plus, Taylor Swift released her Eras Tour film and Beyoncé announced her Renaissance Tour film a couple weeks ago. Brittany takes a look at whether these films add something for fans or if they are just another cash grab from these artists.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

In defense of bad movie accents Oct 10, 2023

We can all think of a bad movie accent. There's Lady Gaga in House of Gucci, Brad Pitt in Meet Joe Black, or Emma Watson in The Bling Ring. A bad accent takes you out of a movie, right? Well, Brittany sits down with New York Times columnist Kyle Buchanan who thinks a bad accent actually pulls you into a movie. Brittany and Kyle breakdown his theory and play a special game of "Where IS she from?"
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's Fat Bear Week - but our fascination with bears is timeless Oct 06, 2023

Every year, the Katmai National Park in Alaska puts on a March Madness-style bracket of all the fattest bears in their park. It's a celebration of fatness, because a fat bear ahead of hibernation means a healthy bear come spring. This competition is popular — there were over a million votes tallied last year — and it speaks to a larger cultural obsession with bears. In honor of Fat Bear Week, Host Brittany Luse journeys through time to unpack what bears mean to us — and why they're family, friend and foe all at once. And later, an exploration of how the queer community emulates bearness — and what the symbol of the animal can mean to them.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Jordan Peele presents a 'new' Black horror Oct 03, 2023

This week, host Brittany Luse kicks off spooky season by sitting down with the current champion of Black horror, Jordan Peele. In his most recent project, he's taken his talents from the screen to the page as the editor of a new book of short stories, Out There Screaming: An Anthology of New Black Horror. Then, Brittany is joined by Black horror scholar and author Tananarive Due, to discuss her contributions to the anthology and her upcoming novel, The Reformatory. Due walks Brittany through how she honors a horrific past while offering readers satisfying scares.
Out There Screaming: An Anthology of New Black Horroris out today.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Hasan Minhaj and the limits of representation Sep 29, 2023

A recent New Yorker piece on Hasan Minhaj found that some crucial bits of his stand-up act didn't stand up to fact-checking. Stretching the truth in comedy is par for the course, but how does that work for a figure like Minhaj, who'd previously doubled down on these stories in interviews and is known for his political satire shows? Brittany is joined by writer Imran Siddiquee and journalist Allana Akhtar to make sense of an entertainment industry that created the conditions for his fame.
Then, we explore what happens when you recast western fantasies through a Black lens? We start by looking at one of the most beloved Black fantasies of our time: The Wiz. It's Been a Minute producer, Corey Antonio Rose shares how the original Broadway production of The Wiz made the storyline from The Wizard of Oz hit different for post-civil rights America. Brittany is then joined by African American Studies professor Darieck Scott to discuss the difference between representation and RE-presentation in fantasy.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Bethann Hardison changed the face of fashion - and why that matters Sep 26, 2023

Bethann Hardison is the fashion icon behind so many fashion icons: she worked as a modeling agent in the era of the supermodel – brokering the careers of stars like Kimora Lee Simmons and Tyson Beckford. And when models of color all but vanished from view at the turn of the millennium – she forced designers to bring them back. Host Brittany Luse sits down with Bethann to discuss the new documentary about Bethann's life, Invisible Beauty, and why fashion imagery, while fraught, is still powerful in our culture.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The WNBA's coming out story; plus, the dangers of sports betting Sep 22, 2023

This year, the WNBA had its most-watched regular season in 21 years, but what went into creating this new moment of visibility for the league? Host Brittany Luse is joined by Katie Barnes, author of Fair Play: How Sports Shape the Gender Debates to unpack the league's initial 'Barbie girl' image, the trailblazers who pushed the WNBA to become the first professional sports league to celebrate Pride, and what it means for an athlete to 'authentically' express themselves.
Then, we explore the growth of sports betting. Sports betting went from a somewhat shameful hobby to something that is fully mainstream - with billions of dollars in bets placed. Dr. Timothy Fong, an addiction specialist, joins Brittany to talk about the associated risks with the growth of sports betting.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The year concert etiquette went to trash and why Sep 19, 2023

Every couple of weeks there's a new story of a fan at a concert misbehaving. One fan threw ashes at Pink, another hit Drake with a cellphone, Miranda Lambert stopped her show when fans took selfies with flash photography. Extreme instances have landed performers in the hospital, but more often attendees have noticed the audience has gotten louder and more distracting than ever. Where is all of this coming from?
Brittany Luse is joined by YouTube commentator Tiffany Ferguson to breakdown how ticket sales, artist merch, and social media create a perfect storm for fans to act out.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Is capitalism in its flop era? Sep 15, 2023

In 2017, Today, Explained co-host Noel King says she started getting a vibe: young people were discussing and dissecting capitalism. She began noticing the word in pop culture and cultural reporting — but found her own tribe of economics reporters were missing from the conversation. Flash forward to 2023, and the word capitalism is all over politics and culture: it's on the stage at the Republican debates, it's on the picket lines and the language of union strikes from Hollywood to New York City, it's even in the new Indiana Jones movie. How did we get here — and has talking about capitalism made us more divided? Noel King joins host Brittany Luse to discuss her new multi-part series exploring how a new generation of Americans are coming to terms with capitalism.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Rock and roll's pioneer is a queer, Southern Black man Sep 12, 2023

When you think of rockstar royalty, a queer, Southern Black man normally doesn't come to mind. But director Lisa Cortés wants us all to reconsider that thought. Her documentary, Little Richard: I Am Everything, takes viewers through the life and legacy of one of the most influential men in music - Little Richard.
From the bawdy roots of his hit song, "Tutti Frutti," to teaching Mick Jagger how to work a crowd, Little Richard's impact spans generations. Host Brittany Luse and director Lisa Cortes talk about the documentary, Little Richard's struggles with own identity, and the queer influence on rock and roll.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Photo of the Year; plus, whose RICO is it anyway? Sep 08, 2023

When former President Donald Trump's mugshot was released, pundits immediately searched for meaning. Was it defiant? Was it embarrassing? Turns out what we see in that image could change over time. Brittany Luse is joined by Vanessa Friedman, senior fashion critic for the New York Times, to talk about the cultural meaning of infamous mugshots and their resounding impact on us.
Then, we welcome Emory law professor emeritus Morgan Cloud to talk about the legal tool that's taking pop culture by storm: the RICO charge. We explore what the act was originally intended to do, and the role of the RICO reboot in several big pop culture cases today, from rapper Young Thug to fashion retailer SHEIN.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

20 years of pumpkin spice power Sep 05, 2023

It's been 20 years since Starbucks debuted the first pumpkin spice latte in 2003. Since then, it's become a cultural phenomenon greater than itself: it's shorthand for fall, for basicness, for femininity, and even for white culture. Why did the PSL become so powerful — and how do food trends garner so much meaning? Host Brittany Luse chats with Suzy Badaracco, food trend forecaster and founder of Culinary Tides, to discuss the $500 million dollar industry, and how little miss pumpkin spice has held on to her cultural power.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Luther Vandross and Samara Joy sing across generations Sep 02, 2023

Music is all about pushing the envelope, and no one knew that more than Luther Vandross. His rendition of "A House is Not a Home" is so beloved, many fans don't even know it's a cover. His sound also laid the groundwork for many popular artists today, from Jazmine Sullivan to Beyoncé. Host Brittany Luse is joined by Craig Seymour, author of "Luther: The Life and Longing of Luther Vandross" to discuss Luther's impact and why his name isn't often in conversation with other greats - even though it should be.
Then, Brittany is joined by Grammy award-winning jazz singer Samara Joy. Samara talks about her album, Linger Awhile, and how she makes music that sounds timeless.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'All The Things She Said': queer anthem or problematic queerbait? Aug 29, 2023

In September 2002, the Russian pop duo t.A.T.u. released their smash single "All The Things She Said." The song is a grungy euro-dance track, and the video features the lead singers Lena Katina and Julia Volkova dressed in schoolgirl uniforms and making out in the rain. The video was banned from UK television for being "not really suitable for children."
That did not stop the song from becoming a global sensation. It topped the charts in 13 countries, and in the United States the duo would perform the song over and over on live television. During performances, they made a point to do as they did in their video and make out.
But here's the thing: neither Katina or Volkova identified as lesbians or queer at the time.
From Harry Styles to Katy Perry, debates over queerbaiting have raged online, and t.A.T.u.'s "All The Things She Said" fits squarely in that lineage. But despite roleplaying as lesbians for their own success, is there something redeemable in how they represented lesbianism at a time when no one else would put two women kissing on camera? And how should we look at this song today?
It's Been A Minute senior producer Barton Girdwood talked this out with Girls Can Kiss Nowauthor, Jill Gutowitz.
You can email us at IBAM@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Skincare is dewy diet culture; plus, how to have the "Fat Talk" Aug 25, 2023

In this conversation from November 2022, host Brittany Luse chats with beauty reporter Jessica Defino about the increase in celebrity skincare lines and why the the way we talk about skin is regressive. Plus, Brittany revisits her chat with "Fat Talk" author Virgina Sole-Smith: they dive into anti-fat bias in parenting and why it's important to embrace fatness.
And later, Brittany gives her take on Jennifer Aniston's latest comments on cancel culture.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why we don't trust the 'vanilla girl' Aug 22, 2023

This week is all about beauty and diet trends. In this first interview from March, host Brittany Luse chats with Forbes staff writer Steffi Cao to discuss her essay, "white women want their power back: on bbls and balletcore, and the entropy of aesthetic." Steffi points to the online rise of the 'clean girl' and 'vanilla girl' aesthetics, just as the myth of innocent white womanhood erodes in the public sphere following outrage at "Karens" and critical looks at stars like Miley Cyrus who borrowed from Black aesthetics for years.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Abbott Elementary' and 'Succession' take on love and grief Aug 19, 2023

This week, we're looking at some of the best TV of the year. Brittany Luse revisits her November 2022 conversation with Abbott Elementary writers Brittani Nichols and Joya McCrory. They talk about creating a world that feels both authentic and funny to American teachers. Then, Linda Holmes of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour stops by to chat about the television episode that had our group chats in a chokehold, and how it eloquently captured the way we experience death and grief in real life.
Note: all interviews were conducted before the 2023 Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why aren't there more union stories onscreen? Aug 15, 2023

In this conversation from March, Brittany Luse is joined by Chicago Tribune TV and film critic Nina Metz to chat about why there are so many shows and movies about rich jerks — Succession, White Lotus and Billions, to name a few — and why we're experiencing a dearth of stories about workers.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Getting lit for hip-hop's 50th birthday Aug 11, 2023

On August 11, 1973, hip-hop was born at a house party in the Bronx. 50 years later the genre has been reshaped in the image of cities and regions around the world. Brittany Luse and NPR Music's Sheldon Pearce take a tour of those regions and look at where hip-hop might go in the next 50 years.
Plus, Brittany is joined by KQED's Pendarvis Harshaw to do a deep dive into a hip-hop scene from the Bay Area known as hyphy. It was loud. It was silly. But underneath all that partying, the hyphy movement also helped a community grieve.
To see more of Pendarvis Harshaw's coverage you can check out KQED's year-long exploration of Bay Area hip-hop history. To dig into NPR's series on the regional sounds of hip-hop, you can check out All Rap is Local.
You can email us at ibam@npr.org.
This episode has been updated to include a listener question and the credits.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How pop culture framed the crack epidemic Aug 08, 2023

The crack epidemic has had seismic impact on American culture, from music to TV and film. This week, Brittany Luse talks to Donovan X. Ramsey, author of When Crack Was King: A People's History of a Misunderstood Era, about why pop culture can't let go of the "crack fiend" or the drug dealing anti-hero. They discuss how both those tropes miss some very big marks, where the stereotypes originated and who tried to set the record straight.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The tension behind tipping; plus, the anger over box braids Aug 04, 2023

Over the past few years, tipping expectations have changed: we're asked to tip in restaurants and coffee shops, yes, but also at bodegas, farm stands, even unmanned grab-and-go kiosks. And while the pandemic increased tips, inflation and a return to normal may put downward pressure on them again. Now, it seems none of us can agree on what the minimum should be. Host Brittany Luse chats with Ramtin Arablouei, co-host of the NPR history podcast Throughline, about the long and fraught history of tipping in the US, and what shifts in tipping may say about where we are today.
And later — we explore hair braiding gone wrong. Online, women looking to get box braids have gone viral with their complaints about confusing pricing structures, minimal care, and poor customer service. Brittany Luse chats with public historian and YouTuber Jouelzy to get an overview of the tension. Then, Jessica Poitras, legislative counsel for the Institute of Justice, joins the show to talk about the legal roadblocks many hair braiders face in setting up their businesses. And later, Brittany is joined by stylist Tyré Rimple to discuss the hidden costs behind braiding.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How racism became a marketing tool for country music Aug 01, 2023

The top three songs in America right now are country tracks, and the top two hits are by artists facing allegations of racism. At the top of the charts is Jason Aldean: he shot to number one after releasing his music video "Try That In A Small Town," which included montages critical of the Black Lives Matter protests and showed Aldean singing in front of a courthouse where a Black teen was lynched. Morgan Wallen has the number two hit, and his popularity rose after being cancelled for using the N-word.
But this is not unprecedented for the genre. Brittany sits down with historian Amanda Martinez to talk about country music's history of marketing itself in opposition of Blackness for financial gain.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Viral dating screenshots and the absurdity of 'And Just Like That' Jul 28, 2023

Screenshots of dating apps are making the rounds online and what feels like mundane exchanges are generating lots of ire and discourse. As these screenshots become more common in our feeds, how does it impact the search for love? And what happens when people use the apps to swipe for content? We talk to Rolling Stone culture reporter Miles Klee about modern dating expectations and if the apps have changed them.
Then, Vox senior correspondent Alex Abad-Santos talks with host Brittany Luse about dating on television. Sex and the City was one of the most culturally important shows to air on television: it showed the aspirational lives of four single women in their thirties and forties. Now that we have the sequel series And Just Like That, Alex and Brittany sift through its nonsense to ask: what important things does the show have to say about women in their fifties and beyond?
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Lil' Kim's fashion legacy is undeniable Jul 25, 2023

Think of the top women rappers of our time: Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Nicki Minaj. They all showcase signature styles that include multicolored wigs, skyscraping heels and designer logos on everything. But that blend of high fashion, femininity and attitude began before any of them joined the game. It was pioneered in the 1990s by the original queen bee: Lil' Kim. Ahead of her time, Kim's ingenuity – and her cementing of the relationship between fashion and hip-hop – has not always been recognized. Host Brittany Luse and fashion journalist Scarlett Newman make the case for why it's time Lil' Kim gets the credit she deserves.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The spectacular femininity of bimbos and 'Barbie' Jul 21, 2023

The Barbie movie has arrived and we seem to be reaching peak Barbie-mania. But, Barbie's brand of hyperfeminine fun has been on the rise for years — especially online among left leaning femmes who call themselves bimbos and have been giving the term a new meaning.
Host Brittany Luse and Hannah McCann, a lecturer at the University of Melbourne who specializes in critical femininity studies, explore how both Barbie and real-life bimbos are criticized for being bad role models, and yet this carefree, maximalist, feminine style may actually be a little subversive.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Twitter vs. Threads, and why influencers could be the ultimate winners Jul 19, 2023

In the wake of user dissatisfaction with Twitter, a crop of hungry new apps have sprung up to replace it. This week on It's Been A Minute, host Brittany Luse is joined by Washington Post reporter Taylor Lorenz to unravel Meta's newest app: Threads. They also discuss the latest changes in the the social media landscape, our power to shape it and why influencers could ultimately come out on top.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Where's the song of the summer? Plus, the making of Beyoncé's 'Crazy in Love' Jul 14, 2023

It's been 20 years since Beyoncé's single Crazy in Love poured out of every radio, car speaker and club for a whole summer — setting her up to be the solo star she is today. Host Brittany Luse revisits that moment and shares the surprising story behind the music with show producer Corey Antonio Rose. Then, she sits down with Beyoncé's longtime stylist Ty Hunter, who put together the iconic looks in the Crazy in Love music video. And finally, she discusses why there is no song of the summer for 2023 — and why that matters — with NPR culture editor Bilal Qureshi.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Ashley Park on Joy Ride, getting raunchy, and a letter to Cardi B Jul 11, 2023

Joy Ride, the ensemble R-rated comedy of the summer, has burst onto the scene with raunchiness, heart, and an unapologetic attitude. The film follows Audrey, played by Ashley Park, who goes to China for a work trip and, along with her friends, gets into more than she bargained for as the trip goes off the rails.
Host Brittany Luse talks to Ashley Park about the universality of raunchiness and how Joy Ride breaks the myth of the polished Asian-American woman. From unfortunate tattoos to a K-Pop rendition of WAP, Joy Ride helps audiences see that everyone can get a little nasty.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A rare battle at the Supreme Court; plus, Asian Americans and affirmative action Jul 07, 2023

Years before their appointments to the highest court in the land, Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Clarence Thomas both walked the hallowed halls of Yale Law School as beneficiaries of affirmative action policies. After handing down the ruling on affirmative action, both justices stood to deliver their different opinions about affirmative action: Sotomayor in support, Thomas against.
To discuss this moment and how two people can have the same experience and land at drastically different conclusions, host Brittany Luse is joined by Ron Elving, Senior Editor and correspondent on NPR's Washington desk, and Leah Wright Rigeur, professor of history at Johns Hopkins University.
Then, Brittany invites Janelle Wong, University of Maryland professor and political scientist, to unpack the various public faces of the efforts to end affirmative action - and how the myth of the model minority shifted the conversation.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pop Culture Happy Hour: why is 'Scandoval' such a big deal for 'Vanderpump Rules'? Jul 04, 2023

Bravo's hit reality show Vanderpump Rules has become infamous due to a much-discussed affair between two members of its cast. The whole thing has been nicknamed "Scandoval" and has led to record-breaking ratings, countless memes, and even a joke at the White House Correspondents Dinner. In a world were reality television is synonymous with secret affairs and drama, why is "Scandoval" such a big deal? Pop Culture Happy Hour's co-host Stephen Thompson is joined by culture writer Shamira Ibrahim and columnist Amil Niazi to discuss.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

You can't even hate watch 'The Idol'; Plus, LIVE with Aubrey Gordon Jul 01, 2023

HBO's 'The Idol' has been riddled with controversy, and with the show coming to an end, host Brittany Luse and NPR's Hazel Cills had a lot to say about the series portrayal of female pop stars, along with the more interesting stories they'd like to see Hollywood show us.
Then, Brittany takes on fat discrimination with author, columnist and Maintenance Phase co-host Aubrey Gordon LIVE from the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival.
Gordon just had the world premier of "Your Fat Friend" a documentary follows her journey from the eponymous blogger 'Your Fat Friend' to New York Times bestselling author and podcaster.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Never Have I Ever' is over, but Maitreyi Ramakrishnan is just getting started Jun 27, 2023

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan has big dreams. The 21-year-old gained full celebrity status with her breakout role as Devi Vishwakumar in the Mindy Kaling-produced hit Never Have I Ever. The final season just dropped on Netflix so we're revisiting our 2022 conversation with the star where host Brittany Luse gets Ramakrishnan dishing on everything from cosplay to car chases. They also talk about Ramakrishnan's wildest dream role, how to deal with haters and why she hopes this is just the beginning – for her, and for other nerdy brown girls who want to make it in Hollywood.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why we all need a himbo with 'The Other Two's Josh Segarra Jun 23, 2023

Today, we consider the himbo — sweet hotties who are maybe a little naive about the world, but are always having a good time. One of the greatest himbos of our age is Lance Arroyo on Max's comedy The Other Two. Host Brittany Luse sits down with actor Josh Segarra, who plays Lance, to talk about what makes an ideal himbo and why they're speaking to the greater culture and our hearts.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Dominique Fishback is the actress with a thousand faces Jun 20, 2023

Dominique Fishback is starring in one of the biggest summer movies, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, but her star has long been on the rise through roles in Judas and the Black Messiah, Swarm, and The Deuce.
This week, Dominique opens up to Brittany Luse about finding the vulnerability in her characters, portraying the rarified Black female serial killer, and what makes her the actress "with a thousand faces."
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Are children a marginalized group? Jun 16, 2023

There's been a common theme swirling throughout the culture wars: from gun policy, to drag bans, to talking about race - the innocence of children is always at the center of discussion.
This week, we're exploring the ideas and systems around childhood. We learn why we first drew the line between child and adult, why the line is so jagged and what implications this has on our lives today. We hear from a few kids themselves, then host Brittany Luse is joined by historian Jules Gill-Peterson and author Sophie Lewis. Last, Brittany chats with children's therapist Gerri Cadet Mareus about cultivating kids' autonomy by turning conflicts at home into opportunities to work together.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's time to have the 'Fat Talk' with our kids — and ourselves Jun 13, 2023

Virginia Sole-Smith is an author, writer and host of the podcast Burnt Toast — and her work focuses on our relationship to food and fat. Her latest book, Fat Talk: Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture is based on one simple idea: it's okay and normal for kids to be fat. "What fat kids need is to know that we see them, we accept them, and we know they are worthy of respect, safety, and dignity," she writes. "Making their body smaller isn't the solution."
Virginia sits down with host Brittany Luse to discuss why anti-fat bias hurts people of all body sizes, why we need to rethink "unhealthy" foods and how to have the fat talk.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Emily King's heartbreak on 'Special Occasion' Jun 09, 2023

Grammy-nominated singer Emily King is a master architect of love songs: her dreamy pop-infused music has provided the soundtrack to many romances. This week, she's opening up about how she baked a fresh heartbreak into the sound of her latest album, Special Occasion. She's writing through her pain, shaking the shame around being honest and dealing with vulnerability hangovers.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Eric André on pulling a prank in late stage capitalism Jun 06, 2023

The prince of pranks, Eric André, changed the comedy landscape with his long running series on Adult Swim, The Eric Andre Show. After a 3-year hiatus, the show is back. Brittany Luse sits down with André to talk about the new season, his pranks on Amber Rose and Jaleel White, and why his humor seems to always flip the script of figures of authority and create heroes out of average joes.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Authors Emily Henry and Bolu Babalola give their hottest summer reading recs Jun 02, 2023

It's finally summer! And what better way to celebrate than to pick up a juicy book on a nice day? Romance authors Bolu Babalola and Emily Henry join host Brittany Luse to give their recommendations for great summer reads. Plus, they play a dating game featuring literary hotties.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Brandon Taylor on art, loving across class and why he writes sex scenes May 30, 2023

This week, host Brittany Luse chats with author and culture critic Brandon Taylor about his latest novel, The Late Americans. The book is set in Iowa City and follows several characters pursuing love, art and the promise of prosperity. They discuss what's so American about The Late Americans, and how it's a departure from what's currently seen as fashionable in fiction.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tina Turner's happy ending May 27, 2023

This week, the world went into mourning after losing the Goddess of Rock n' Roll: Tina Turner. Veteran music journalist and Shine Bright author, Danyel Smith, joins Brittany Luse to unpack Tina's powerful performances and her role as an architect of rock. They also dig into the obstacles the star overcame, her smart strategies and the lessons she has for us on resilience, peace and happiness.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Formula 1's new fandom; plus, Christian Horner is always on the offense May 26, 2023

We're in a motorsports moment: Fast X just dropped, Rosalía is popularizing the motomami aesthetic and now it's time for the Monaco Grand Prix. This is the biggest weekend in Formula 1 racing, a sport that's seen an explosion of popularity in the United States. This episode, Brittany welcomes Vox deputy editor and F1 superfan Izzie Ramirez to talk about how new fans are revving up geopolitical conversations and if other sports should be copying the F1 popularity playbook. Then, Brittany speaks with Christian Horner, CEO and team principal for Red Bull Racing. They get into the racing strategy that has won him 11 world titles and his plans for F1's most popular driver.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Beauty culture in South Korea reveals a grim future in 'Flawless' May 23, 2023

Author and one of NPR's beloved hosts, Elise Hu, joins Brittany Luse to talk about her new book: Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital. For Elise, what started as a professional move to Seoul turned into a long-term interest in beauty culture and the societal demand to look flawless. Elise and Brittany talk about the high price of South Korea's lookism, how the government props up beauty culture, the technological gaze, and how Korean beauty culture is spreading throughout the United States.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Psychedelic freedom with Tonya Mosley; plus, 'Monica' and ambiguous apologies May 19, 2023

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration could approve certain psychedelic drugs for treatment of PTSD within the next few years, but what does this mean for Black people who suffer from Racial Trauma? Host Brittany Luse talks with the host of Truth Be Told, Tonya Mosley, about the latest season of her podcast exploring the healing potential of psychedelics. They talk about the latest studies, the war on drugs and what it's like to tell your new boss about your psychedelic journey.
Then, Brittany is joined by Trace Lysette, star of the new film 'Monica.' The two explore what it means to come home, the structure of family dramas, and the things we say without words.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's been one year since the Buffalo shooting. How has it changed the community? May 16, 2023

It has been one year since a white supremacist drove to a predominantly Black neighborhood with an AR-15 style rifle and murdered 10 people and injured 3 others. NPR's Embedded podcast has followed a cheerleading troop over the past year to understand how the mass shooting changed the community. This week, Brittany brings you the first episode in their multi-part series.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A Black, trans journey through TV and film; plus, inside Beyoncé's 'Renaissance' tour May 12, 2023

Since releasing one of the most critically acclaimed albums in 2022, pop titan Beyoncé has withheld the visuals for almost a year. NPR Senior Culture editor Bilal Qureshi went to the first stop on the Renaissance World Tour and joins producer Corey Antonio Rose to reveal one of the most highly anticipated musical secrets.
Then, journalist Tre'vell Anderson takes host Brittany Luse through a groundbreaking look at the history of transgender representation onscreen, in their new book, "We See Each Other: A Black, Trans Journey Through TV and Film."
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Beyoncé's Renaissance tour begins; revisiting house music history with DJ Honey Dijon May 09, 2023

Host Brittany Luse revisits her 2022 conversation with the legendary DJ Honey Dijon. As one of the only Black trans DJs playing the biggest venues in the world, she's not only become an icon of the scene, but an arbiter of the culture. It's no surprise that Beyoncé tapped Honey for her biggest album yet, Renaissance. Brittany and Honey talk house music's Black roots, the evolution of the club scene, and working with Beyoncé on "Alien Superstar" and "Cozy."
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Padma Lakshmi's Trojan Horse; Plus, is Michael Jackson un-cancellable? May 05, 2023

Brittany Luse talks to Padma Lakshmi about the second season of her series Taste The Nation. They get into what is "American food" from apple pies (spoiler: nothing in an apple pie is from here) to daal and pancakes. Then Brittany sits down with the hosts of the new investigative podcast Think Twice. Jay Smooth and Leon Neyfakh dive into the history of Michael Jackson to show how he controlled his narrative and to answer the question: is Michael Jackson too famous to cancel?
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The best Met Gala looks and the messy legacy of Karl Lagerfeld May 03, 2023

Yesterday was the first Monday in May, which meant we were inundated with pics of the Met Gala. The theme this year: Karl Lagerfeld, the late controversial fashion designer who led the house of Chanel for years. In this episode, host Brittany Luse sits down with fashion editor and journalist Marjon Carlos. They separate the winning looks from the losing ones, break down the Lagerfeld legacy and play a game of "Show Me The Receipts."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Brittany goes to 'Couples Therapy;' Plus, why Hollywood might strike Apr 28, 2023

A big strike might be coming to Hollywood. That's because the Writer's Guild of America - the union that protects screenwriters - is pushing back against what they see as unfair wages. NPR's Linda Holmes explains why we as viewers should care. Plus, Brittany talks with Dr. Orna Guralnik. Orna is the lead therapist on Showtime's docuseries Couples Therapy, and her and Brittany discuss how to bridge differences in relationships, how to maintain meaningful relationships, and why humans have the capacity to heal.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

George Santos and the great American tradition of "self-making" Apr 25, 2023

New York Congressman George Santos has been embroiled in controversy since the day he stepped into office in November. The New York Times and other publications have reported that much of the Republican lawmaker's alleged resume – from where he went to college to his supposed time at Goldman Sachs – cannot be backed up with evidence. In this episode, rather than dig into what is true or false, host Brittany Luse asks why someone would embellish their resume in the first place. Author Tara Isabella Burton says it all goes back to the uniquely American obsession with being "self-made."
Burton's book, Self-Made: Curating our Identities from Da Vinci to the Kardashians is available for pre-order here.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The new conservative bent of rap media; plus, the sweetness of 'Somebody Somewhere' Apr 21, 2023

While hip hop has a history of anti-establishment and progressive politics, hip hop media is taking an increasingly conservative turn. Host Brittany Luse is joined by Rolling Stone staff writer Andre Gee to discuss one of the most influential current stars of hip hop media — DJ Akademiks — and what his conservative provocations and visibility say about changes in the rap landscape. Later, Brittany chats with actor, producer, and cabaret singer Bridget Everett about season two of her show, Somebody Somewhere on HBO. They talk about the show's distinctive coming-of-middle-age narrative and what it means to build community in small town America.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Trina and her larger-than-life persona in hip-hop Apr 18, 2023

From our friends at Louder Than a Riot, a look back at the origins of Miami's wildest rap icon, Trina Rockstar. Her vivacious vibes and ruthless bars helped flip the script on the double standard that women in the industry often faced. This episode looks at the unwritten rules that continue to shape hip-hop – specifically rule number four: "It ain't trickin' if you got it."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Death and grief in 'Succession'; plus, privacy and the abortion pill Apr 14, 2023

This week, host Brittany Luse is joined by UC Berkeley Law professor Khiara Bridges to connect the dots between the recent legal battles over the abortion pill mifepristone and our constitutional right to privacy. Then, Linda Holmes of NPR's 'Pop Culture Happy Hour' stops by to chat about the television episode that still has our group chats in a chokehold, and how it eloquently captured the way we experience death and grief in real life.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tracee Ellis Ross is an icon – and our favorite rich auntie Apr 11, 2023

Tracee Ellis Ross is an icon. From playing the premiere Black bachelorette, Joan Carol Clayton, on Girlfriends to becoming America's mom as Bow Johnson on Black-ish, she's spent the past two decades portraying a paragon of Black womanhood on screen. More recently, Tracee's turned her focus toward uplifting the stories of real people – on her Hulu documentary Hair Tales, and with her new podcast, I Am America. Host Brittany Luse talks with Tracee about her long and varied career, how she tackles storytelling through documentary and what it means to have rich auntie energy.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Serving up villains and vengeance in 'Love Is Blind' and Steven Yeun's 'Beef' Apr 07, 2023

In reality TV, bringing the drama used to mean making it big. But these days, it doesn't seem to pay to be the mean girl. B.A. Parker, co-host of NPR's 'Code Switch,' joins Brittany Luse to explore the end of reality TV's villain era and the state of the influencer economy. Then, we dive into the psyche behind Academy Award-nominee Steven Yeun's latest character in Netflix's 'Beef.' He and Brittany discuss the diabolical antics of protagonist Danny and the surprising result of all that on-screen tension with his co-star Ali Wong.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The surprising case for AI boyfriends Apr 04, 2023

The AI revolution has come for our love lives. Millions around the world are now in relationships with chatbots who can text, sext and – for a fee – talk to you on the phone and have 'in-person' interactions via augmented reality. Host Brittany Luse tries the AI companion app Replika for herself – and discusses the experience with The Cut's Sangeeta Singh-Kurtz, who's spent the past year covering tech and dating. They talk about the surprising market that Replika has found and whether relationships with AI chatbots will become more common. Finally, they play a new game called 'Boyfriend... or Bot?'
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Fighting back against spams, scams and schemes Mar 31, 2023

It's not just you – the constant texts, calls, emails and DMs from scammers are invading so many of our lives. And when the scams are successful, there's often no recourse at all. So how do we protect ourselves from these schemers?
Host Brittany Luse talks first to Laci Mosley, host of a podcast called 'Scam Goddess,' about how even a scam queen can become a victim. Then, Brittany chats with Susan Tompor, money columnist at the Detroit Free Press, about how these scams work, what's being done about them and why we all need to stop judging people who've fallen prey to scams.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The 'vanilla girl' trend shows that beauty is power Mar 28, 2023

If you're more than a casual observer on the interwebs, you've probably heard the term, "chronically online" – someone who knows the ins and outs of viral trends, memes and memorable moments. But sometimes you can get too deep in the Matrix. That's why our new segment, Chronically Online, is here to find the balance.
To kick it off, host Brittany Luse chats with Buzzfeed News internet reporter Steffi Cao about her essay, "white women want their power back: on bbls and balletcore, and the entropy of aesthetic." After scrolling on Instagram Reels, Steffi noticed that the clean girl, coastal grandmother and – most importantly – the vanilla girl trends are all ushering in a very specific aesthetic. Brittany and Steffi talk beauty as soft power and the rebrand of white womanhood.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Breaking down the Jennifer Lopez Wedding Industrial Complex Canon Mar 24, 2023

It's basically spring - which means wedding season is starting to rev up. And no one does weddings quite like Jennifer Lopez - both on-screen and off. Host Brittany Luse is joined by New York Magazine features writer Rachel Handler to break down J.Lo's wedding planning movies (the Jennifer Lopez Wedding Industrial Complex Canon), how they add to J.Lo's brand, and what they say about our investment in the real-life wedding industrial complex.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Surviving long COVID three years into the pandemic Mar 21, 2023

It's been three years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. And according to the CDC, out of all the American adults who have had COVID — and that's a lot of us — one in five went on to develop long COVID symptoms. While so many are struggling with this new disease, it can be hard for people to know what to do to take care of themselves. The Long COVID Survival Guide aims to give people struggling with long COVID practical solutions and emotional support to manage their illness.
In this conversation from November 2022, host Brittany Luse talks to Fiona Lowenstein, editor of the guide, and Karla Monterroso, one of the contributors, about the difficulty of getting diagnosed, navigating long COVID and creating long-term collective care.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Silicon Valley Bank and the sordid history of 'Palo Alto' Mar 17, 2023

Even after Silicon Valley Bank crumbled and tech workers have been laid off in the thousands, Silicon Valley is still surrounded by a mythos of progress and futurity. Host Brittany Luse talks to author Malcolm Harris about his new book, Palo Alto: A History of California, Capitalism, and the World, to break down how that mythos was built, the dark underbelly underneath it, and why the tech industry is a microcosm of American capitalism.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The key to EGOT-ing with John Legend Mar 14, 2023

John Legend has permeated the culture for over two decades. His music has racked up billions of plays and he and his wife regularly make headlines when they bring us into some of their happiest and most vulnerable moments as a family. Today, we're looking back on his rise to fame, his most creative project, and what keeps him coming back to the ivory keys. Brittany also brings on the fun with an EGOT game of trivia.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Hollywood squeezed out women directors; plus, what's with the rich jerks on TV? Mar 10, 2023

In nearly 100 years, the Oscar award for Best Director has only gone to three women. The film industry as a whole has been heavily dominated by men, but it wasn't always this way. Ahead of Academy Awards, Brittany chops it up with Maya Montañez Smukler, author of Liberating Hollywood: Women Directors and the Feminist Reform of 1970s American Cinema, to discuss the state of women directors and how the industry systematically shifted them out of the spotlight.
Then, we ask Chicago Tribune TV and film critic Nina Metz about the oversaturation of fictional, churlish billionaires on screen - and why there should be more depictions of the workers they exploit.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Marilyn Monroe was more than just 'Blonde' Mar 08, 2023

In the six decades since Marilyn Monroe passed away, Hollywood has not let her go. Actresses have portrayed her in countless films and there have been more than 15 biopics dedicated to the late icon. Ahead of the Academy Awards, Ana de Armas has been getting Oscar buzz for playing Marilyn 'Blonde.' However, one critic finds this role, this film, and these stereotypes deeply problematic. Host Brittany Luse is joined by culture critic Angelica Jade Bastién to talk about Marilyn's misinterpreted legacy and why the Hollywood impersonations never shine as bright as the real star.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's real about The Real Housewives? Mar 03, 2023

What makes The Real Housewives peak culture – as in the #1 topic in the group chat – for so many people? Host Brittany Luse and producer Liam McBain descend into the depths of Bravocon – the Bravo convention – to find out. They talk to fans, a producer, and the Housewives themselves to understand how the franchise became a cultural juggernaut.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Keyla Monterroso Mejia embraces cringe as comedy's newest star Feb 28, 2023

Keyla Monterroso Mejia is a dramedy star on the rise. She made audiences cringe with laughter in Curb Your Enthusiasm playing Maria Sofia Estrada and then passed the vibe check as the chaotic teacher's aide Ashley Garcia on Abbott Elementary. And to top it all off, she's leading the new Netflix show, Freeridge. Host Brittany Luse sits down with Keyla to talk about her comedic characters, her new leading role, and betting on yourself.
You can watch the full video interview here.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Fear, Florida, and The 1619 Project Feb 24, 2023

How should U.S history be told, and who gets to tell it? Debate over these questions has raged for years – but nowhere is it more pronounced right now than in Florida. This week, Brittany Luse chats with NPR's Giulia Heyward to get the download on Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' recent efforts to ban AP African American studies in his state. Then, Brittany sits down with Dorothy Roberts, a legal scholar and sociologist at the University of Pennsylvania, and Leslie Alexander, a historian at Rutgers University. In line with their work on The 1619 Project – now a Hulu documentary series –they make the case that slavery led to some of our biggest political fissures today, and discuss why it's important for all Americans to understand those connections.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Ross Gay on inciting joy while dining with sorrow Feb 21, 2023

Looking for joy? Then it might be worth exploring your sorrow, complications and mess. In his latest collection of essays, Inciting Joy, poet Ross Gay reconsiders the breadth of joy, arguing that it can be found – and even strengthened – in life's hardest moments, when we must rely on one another. This week, host Brittany Luse sits down with Gay to discuss the complexity of joy, the beauty of grace and creating meaning in life.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Kelela's guide for breaking up with men Feb 17, 2023

If you haven't stepped into an underground club in the last decade, you might be forgiven if you don't know Kelela. But the Washington, D.C. native has had a seismic impact on dance music since she broke into the scene in 2013. Now, after a six-year hiatus, Kelela is out with her fourth and latest record, 'Raven' – and with it, she's remaking the future of dance music. This week, host Brittany Luse sits down with Kelela to discuss Black queer liberation, and how she hopes this record helps folks find freedom on the dance floor.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Unlocking desire through smut; plus, the gospel of bell hooks Feb 14, 2023

This week, we're asking: do the fantasies we read in romance novels say anything about what we want in our real-life relationships? Devoted readers share how the genre has impacted their love lives. Host Brittany Luse also sits down with writer Rebekah Weatherspoon to learn how she builds a world of desire.
Then, we talk to Dr. E. Gale Greenlee, teacher-scholar in residence at the bell hooks center in Berea Kentucky, about lasting impact of bell hooks' work, and how she changed the way we think about love.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Hot and kinda bothered by 'Magic Mike'; plus Penn Badgley on bad boys Feb 10, 2023

The scintillating strip sensation is back! 'Magic Mike's Last Dance' hits theaters this weekend – and to celebrate, we're talking about male dancers in the media and in the clubs. Our host Brittany Luse sits down with sociologist Dr. Katy Pilcher, to talk about female desire and what it means that a whole family can enjoy a male strip revue together.
Then, Brittany talks to Penn Badgley, the star of Netflix's 'YOU.' He reflects on playing bad guys for the last 15 years, what a murderer can tell us about love and why all television is camp.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Everything leading up to Rihanna's Halftime Show Feb 07, 2023

This weekend Rihanna will perform on the world's biggest stage as the halftime headliner at the Super Bowl. Yet, in 2019 she turned down the gig because she said there were things within the NFL she could not support. Brittany sits down with Gene Demby, host of NPR's Code Switch, to discuss if Rihanna's previous concerns were addressed and why she might need to step up to the mic.
You can find more of Gene's reporting on the NFL by checking out NPR's Code Switch.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The loneliness and longing of Luther Vandross; plus Grammy winner Samara Joy Feb 03, 2023

From "A House Is Not A Home" to "The Glow of Love," Luther Vandross' music has become a staple for weddings, family reunions and graduations. While Luther changed the sound of R&B, brought ballads to epic new heights and influenced countless musicians, he somehow doesn't have the same icon status as some of his collaborators and contemporaries like Whitney Houston or Aretha Franklin.
20 years after Luther's last live concert, Brittany is joined by Craig Seymour, author of "Luther: The Life and Longing of Luther Vandross" to discuss Luther's impact and why he isn't usually placed on the "Mount Rushmore" of American music.
Then, Brittany jazzes it up with two-time Grammy nominee Samara Joy. They talk about her unique style of singing and how she's bridging generations with her timeless music.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

George Santos and the great American tradition of "self-making" Jan 31, 2023

New York Congressman George Santos has been embroiled in controversy since the day he stepped into office in November. The New York Times and other publications have reported that much of the Republican lawmaker's alleged resume – from where he went to college to his supposed time at Goldman Sachs – cannot be backed up with evidence. In this episode, rather than dig into what is true or false, host Brittany Luse asks why someone would embellish their resume in the first place. Author Tara Isabella Burton says it all goes back to the uniquely American obsession with being "self-made."
Burton's book, Self-Made: Curating our Identities from Da Vinci to the Kardashians is available for pre-order here.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Saying goodbye to Pikachu and Ash, plus how Pokémon changed media forever Jan 27, 2023

It's the end of an era. After more than 25 years, The Pokémon Company is closing the book on the adventures of Ash Ketchum and Pikachu. To celebrate the cultural impact of this dynamic duo – and of the Pokémon franchise – Brittany Luse sits down with actor Sarah Natochenny, who's voiced Ash since 2006. Sarah talks about growing up with a character who stays 10 years old, and how fans have been the lifeblood of the show. Then, Brittany sits down with Dexter Thomas, VICE News correspondent and Japanese culture critic, and Daniel Dockery, author of Monster Kids: How Pokémon Taught a Generation to Catch Them All. They explore how Pokémon transformed gaming and children's TV in the U.S. and became one of the biggest media franchises in the world.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu is everywhere, all at once Jan 25, 2023

Everything Everywhere All at Once is the critical darling of the 2023 awards season. The film is up for 11 Oscars, including a Supporting Actress nomination for breakout star, Stephanie Hsu. Hsu, who played Joy Wang AKA Jobu Tupaki in the film, started her career in experimental theater, which eventually led her to meet the directors of Everything Everywhere All at Once. Stephanie joined host Brittany Luse to chat about her comedic roots, the freedom of nihilism, and how the film has brought intergenerational healing to the stars.
You can watch a video of the interview here.
You can follow us on Twitter at @NPRItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

One of Grindr's favorite podcasts; plus, art versus AI Jan 20, 2023

It's in our homes and in our pockets, and now artificial intelligence is in our art. The runaway rise of AI generator apps has sparked hot debate around the technology's impact on creative industries. Brittany Luse talks to Karla Ortiz, an artist who's part of a new lawsuit against a group of companies that use AI to generate images. Ortiz gives her take on why it's important to regulate this technology, and why everyone – not just artists – has a stake in the issue. Then, Brittany talks to Tuck Woodstock, host of the 'Gender Reveal' podcast, about the show's five-year mark and how we can all talk about gender in more informed ways.
You can follow us on Twitter at @NPRItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

M3GAN, murder, and mass queer appeal Jan 18, 2023

At first blush, M3GAN seems like your standard murder doll horror film. Uncanny appearance, eerily close relationship with a young child, and of course, murder. But it's become way more than that. She's got a viral dance, powerful side eye, wig fittings, and songs - all of this led M3GAN to become a camp queer icon overnight. Host Brittany Luse and writer Alex Abad-Santos talk M3GAN's queer appeal, our skepticism of Silicon Valley life hacks and how the movie inverts some classic horror tropes.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's worse than heat damage? Hair discrimination Jan 13, 2023

For Black women, hair is about so much more than beauty. It can affect how they're treated and what opportunities are available to them. It's tied to history, identity and politics. And though many Black women and girls now embrace their natural curls, Black hair is still a site of discrimination. In this episode, Brittany Luse talks to two women fighting to change that: Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.), who has been pushing for a federal law against race-based hair discrimination, and Michaela Angela Davis, whose docuseries "The Hair Tales" is meant to inspire Black women to celebrate their crowning glories.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Do you really know what turns you on? Jan 10, 2023

For women who date men, bad sex might feel like a personal problem, but Nona Willis Aronowitz says it's political too. In Bad Sex: Truth, Pleasure, and an Unfinished Revolution, Aronowitz tackles the historic and systemic causes of unsatisfying sex. With wisdom from both her reading and romps, Aronowitz sits down with host Brittany Luse to talk about pleasure and the paths to building better relationships with men.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What has Rep. Maxwell Frost gotten himself into? Jan 06, 2023

It's a new year, and with it comes a new Congress. This week, Brittany Luse sits down with the first Gen Z member to be raised to its ranks, Democratic Rep. Maxwell Frost of Florida. They talk about his vision for the future, the literal costs of entering the halls of power and getting a shoutout from his favorite band after winning his election. Then, what could Congress do better in 2023? NPR congressional correspondent Susan Davis gives Brittany her thoughts on new year's resolutions for lawmakers from both sides of the aisle.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Millennials in Hollywood are making parents apologize on-screen Jan 03, 2023

In this episode from June 2022, guest host B.A. Parker and Vox entertainment critic Emily St. James dive into a trend that was all over Hollywood: parents apologizing on-screen. From miniseries like 'Ms. Marvel'to the indie darling 'Everything Everywhere All At Once,' St. James calls the subgenre the 'millennial parent apology fantasy.' They get into how stories about parents and children confronting gaps in culture, generation and identity could pave the way for new perspectives about trauma and family.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Dancing into 2023 with legendary DJ Honey Dijon Dec 30, 2022

2022 was a banner year for Honey Dijon. She co-produced two of the fiercest tracks on Beyoncé's latest record, 'Renaissance,' and she released her own studio album this fall, called 'Black Girl Magic.' But Honey – one of the only Black trans DJs playing the biggest clubs in the world – has been a mainstay on dance floors for decades. And she's become a historian, and champion, of the Black musical traditions that house music draws from. In this episode, Honey talks to host Brittany Luse about using music to create spaces of liberation and paving the way for future generations to do the same.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A critic's love letter to Black women in pop Dec 27, 2022

In this conversation from April 2022, former guest host Juana Summers sits down with author Danyel Smith to chat about her book, Shine Bright: A Very Personal History of Black Women in Pop. They talk all about Black women in music — like Gladys Knight, Mahalia Jackson and Whitney Houston — whose true genius and contributions have not yet been fully recognized.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tory Lanez is guilty, so why was Megan Thee Stallion's strength on trial? Dec 24, 2022

For the last two weeks, rapper Tory Lanez has been on trial for allegedly shooting Grammy winner Megan Thee Stallion. Since Megan went public with the allegations in August 2020, she's faced significant backlash – on social media, on popular gossip blogs and also from her peers in the hip-hop community. Megan was shot, and yet it somehow feels like she's been the one on trial. This week, NPR's 'Louder Than A Riot' senior producer Gabby Bulgarelli joins host Brittany Luse to talk about her reporting inside the courtroom, how social media has impacted the trial and the ripple effect this verdict might have for Black women across the country.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

(Almost) 20 years of 'Love Actually' Dec 20, 2022

It's been almost two decades since the star-studded romantic comedy premiered, but Love Actually is still a holiday staple that plays in both movie theaters and living rooms across the country. Since the film is here to stay, we feel it's about time to see how it holds up. Host Brittany Luse chats with NPR Weekend Edition's Ayesha Rascoe, who saw the film for the first time this year. They also break down what defines the Christmas movie genre – and its surprising overlap with horror.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Dark academia's deadly allure and the timeless appeal of prep style Dec 16, 2022

Donna Tartt's The Secret History turned 30 this year. Since the book's release, the novel has sold millions of copies and become a classic - the blueprint for a cluster of aesthetic and literary works under the label "dark academia." Host Brittany Luse and culture writer Alice Vincent examine the novel's long shelf life and why it's still relevent to young people today. Then she sits down with author Olivie Blake, who shares how authors are bringing new perspectives to the genre.
Then, Brittany is joined by Avery Trufelman, host of the podcast Articles of Interest. In her latest season, Trufelman explores the classic look of ivy style, and its journey from the hallowed halls of academic institutions to retail stores near you.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

There is no Twitter without Black Twitter Dec 13, 2022

#BlackLivesMatter. #OscarsSoWhite. #Zola. These huge cultural moments come from one of the most chaotic, beloved, and influential communities online: Black Twitter. But with Elon Musk at the helm, the future of the community is in question. What's next for the digital public square and by extension Black Twitter?
Host Brittany Luse sits down with Jason Parham, senior writer at WIRED, to discuss why he believes, "There Is No Replacement for Black Twitter"; and why his three-part oral history, "A People's History of Black Twitter" is needed now more than ever.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Framing Agnes' flips the script for trans stories Dec 09, 2022

When the world never stops questioning you, do you refuse to answer... or do you play along to get what you want? These questions are at the heart of Framing Agnes, an award-winning documentary about the legacy of a young trans woman in the 1950s who was forced to choose between access and honesty. The film uses the format of a talk show to re-enact interviews with the eponymous Agnes and five other trans people – taken from case files from a decades-old gender identity clinic at UCLA. Brittany Luse chats with the film's director, Chase Joynt, and historian Jules Gill-Peterson about the ways our society tells trans stories. They also dive into the limits of representation, the power dynamics of interviews and the nature of truth itself.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Lil Kim is a style icon. It's time she got her due. Dec 06, 2022

Think of the top women rappers of our time: Cardi B. Megan Thee Stallion. Nicki Minaj. They all showcase a signature style that involves multicolored wigs, skyscraping heels and designer logos on everything. But that blend of high fashion, femininity and attitude began before any of them, pioneered in the 1990s by the original queen bee: Lil' Kim. Ahead of its time, Kim's ingenuity – and her place in the fusion of fashion and hip-hop – has not always been recognized. Host Brittany Luse and fashion journalist Scarlett Newman make the case for why it's time Lil' Kim gets the credit she deserves.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

For Colored Nerds: Why Brittany wants to be a bad Black mom Dec 02, 2022

Recently, host Brittany Luse has found herself curious about motherhood. As she's thought about the kind of mom she might be, she looked for models in film and TV – and found that there's little room for mothers, and Black moms in particular, to be anything but excellent. From Brittany's previous podcast, For Colored Nerds, a discussion with Eric Eddings about motherhood and misbehaving, and why less than perfect is more than enough.
Follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pop Culture Happy Hour: 'The Godfather' and the limits of on-screen representation Nov 29, 2022

From our friends at Pop Culture Happy Hour, a deep dive on The Godfather – and why the classic film was not universally loved by the Italian-American community that it portrayed. This episode is part one of the new three-part podcast series Screening Ourselves, which is all about the complicated relationships between on-screen characters and the people they aim to represent.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Sibling rivalry takes the stage on Broadway; plus Randall Park's latest 'Blockbuster' Nov 25, 2022

There's nothing like the holidays for family drama. And in today's episode, Brittany Luse sits down with two actors who portray a classic brother-against-brother dynamic in the Pulitzer-winning play Topdog/Underdog, which recently returned to Broadway. Corey Hawkins and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II talk sibling rivalries, the American dream and why their two-man show is not just an exploration of race.
Then Brittany goes fangirl on actor Randall Park, whose 2019 film Always Be My Maybe is a staple in her household. She and Park talk about his latest projects: the holiday-friendly Netflix sitcom Blockbuster and his forthcoming directorial debut. They also get into the challenges of making it big in Hollywood and his passion for all things creative.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'The Long COVID Survival Guide' to finding care and community Nov 22, 2022

According to the CDC, out of all the American adults who have had COVID — and that's a lot of us — one in five went on to develop long COVID symptoms. While so many are struggling with this new disease, it can be hard for people to know how to take care of themselves.
The Long COVID Survival Guide aims to give people struggling with long COVID practical solutions and emotional support to manage their illness. Host Brittany Luse talks to Fiona Lowenstein, editor of the guide, and Karla Monterroso, one of the contributors, about the difficulty of getting diagnosed, navigating long COVID and creating long-term collective care.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Lionel Messi's last World Cup? Plus, a 'Diasporican' Thanksgiving Nov 18, 2022

They call him a 21st-century god of soccer. One of the all time greats. A king. But Lionel Messi's crown is still missing one big jewel: a World Cup trophy for his home country, Argentina.
In this episode, host Brittany Luse explores Messi's long road to a World Cup victory with Jasmine Garsd, host of NPR's new podcast The Last Cup. Along the way, they go into how immigration, race and class coil around the world of international soccer.
Then, Brittany goes on a gastronomic journey with food columnist Illyanna Maisonet, whose new cookbook Diasporican weaves in diasporic influences with Puerto Rico's Indigenous, African and European culinary traditions.
You can follow us on Twitter @ItsBeenaMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Abbott Elementary' gets teachers Nov 15, 2022

Brittany Luse watches a lot of TV, but there's one show she's always caught up on — Abbott Elementary. This workplace comedy follows a group of teachers at a Philadelphia public elementary school. The showis sweet and roaringly funny, but it also touches on national issues such as underfunding and teacher retention.
Currently in its second season, the writers room is led by the great Quinta Brunson. Today, Brittany is joined by two of her talented writers, Brittani Nichols and Joya McCrory. They talk about creating a world that feels both authentic and funny to American teachers.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Black films that changed the game Nov 12, 2022

It's a big week in Black cinema as Black Panther: Wakanda Forever hit theaters Friday. But on the same day, another film dropped that may be just as powerful in its message about Black moviemaking. Is This Black Enough For You? pays homage to the decades of creativity that made the celebrated Marvel movie possible – and deeply influenced cinema as we know it.
Host Brittany Luse sits down with Elvis Mitchell, the longtime film critic who directed the documentary. They dig into the ingenuity of Black filmmakers through the 1960s and '70s, the overlooked contributions of Blaxploitation films and the one Black classic that led to the demise of an era.
Then, Brittany talks about a different kind of homage with Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle – the brains behind the sitcom South Side and the variety show send-up Sherman's Showcase. The comedy duo reveal why writing jokes around specific references can appeal to all kinds of audiences, and how parody can be a form of love.
You can follow us on Twitter @npritsbeenamin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A vote for 'Black Disability Politics' Nov 08, 2022

It's Election Day, and Brittany's focusing on those long lines at the polls. For years there's been a lot of talk about voter disenfranchisement - especially for Black and Brown voters who wait for hours to cast a ballot. But Brittany's guest thinks of those lines differently.
Sami Schalk is the author ofBlack Disability Politics. She argues that by focusing on the intersection of disability and Black liberation you can find creative ways to address systemic oppression. Long lines are just one example of where Black and disabled oppression meet.
You can find Sami's book here.
Follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Are the Kardashians America's family? Plus, our skincare desires and delusions Nov 04, 2022

The Kardashians. Whether you're into them or not, one thing is true: You can't avoid them. When they're not releasing new episodes of their long-running reality TV show, they're making headlines about Halloween costume reveals or ex-husbands who go on anti-Semitic rants. Because somehow, over the past decade, the Kardashian family went from Hollywood D-listers to American institution.
Host Brittany Luse unpacks that journey with MJ Corey, known by her social handle Kardashian Kolloquium. Corey, who also runs a newsletter where she applies media theory to the Kardashians' antics, breaks down their rise to the heights of American society and power – and how they got there using beauty, traditional milestones and a media playbook that might look similar to another first family.
You can follow us on Twitter @npritsbeenamin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Sophistication and sexuality at 70 with Christine Baranski Nov 01, 2022

If you ask people to describe Christine Baranski, one word rises to the top: sophisticated. That's no accident; the actress has spent a lifetime refining her image and her craft.
For the past 13 years, Baranski has played Diane Lockhart, a savvy and assertive attorney on the CBS television series The Good Wife and its spin-off The Good Fight. And just like her character, Baranski is a trailblazer herself. With women making up only 3% of major TV characters 60 and over, she's carved out a path for other actresses to follow.
In this episode, host Brittany Luse talks with Baranski about The Good Fight for women in Hollywood.
Follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Vampires are hot, y'all Oct 28, 2022

Spooky season is upon us, so we decided to sink our teeth into the world of vampires. Host Brittany Luse kicks off the conversation with Kendra R. Parker, who teaches a class at Georgia Southern University about Black vampires in film and literature. They talk about the racial and sexual politics of vampire narratives and why humans continue to find vampire stories compelling.
Then Brittany sits down with Jacob Anderson, star of the AMC reboot of Interview with the Vampire. The two get into the shaky ethics of vampirism and the trauma of immortality.
Follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Grim Reaper of retail: Spirit Halloween Oct 25, 2022

Every fall, with the same regularity as birds flying south, Spirit Halloween materializes in locations across the country. The superstore sells all manner of trappings for spooky season, including costumes, props and décor. It boasts about 1,400 pop-ups nationwide, and often takes over temporary leases in malls where a big-box retailer struggled to stay open. This penchant for swooping in on failing businesses has led many consumers to see the company as a kind of Grim Reaper of retail – and turned the store into an internet meme.
This week, host Brittany Luse sits down with Planet Money's Kenny Malone to dive into the origin story of Spirit Halloween, and what the store's success says about the economy and the future of retail.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin or email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Taylor Swift loves main character energy; Julio Torres hates it Oct 21, 2022

The It's Been a Minute team gives you a sneak peek at the event of the season: BravoCon, where our producer met his favorite housewife, and the Salt Lake City stars spill the tea to host Brittany Luse.
Then, Brittany sits down with Julio Torres, a comedian, actor, writer and creator of HBO's Los Espookys. They discuss the influences behind his unique world-building.
Finally, if you're a Taylor Swift fan, this was a pretty big week, with Swift releasing her 10th studio album, Midnights. It seems that Swift is as big as ever. What is it about her and her music that's so enduring? Brittany sat sat down with an avid Swiftie and Rolling Stone writer, Brittany Spanos – who also teaches a class on Swift. They talk about the artist's evolution and how she's navigated the music industry through the years.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan tells those racist trolls to chill; Princess Peach can be Brown Oct 18, 2022

Maitreyi Ramakrishnan has big dreams. The 20-year-old gained full celebrity status with her breakout role as Devi Vishwakumar in the Netflix teen hit Never Have I Ever. But now that filming has wrapped for the show's four seasons, Ramakrishnan is looking ahead. Host Brittany Luse gets Ramakrishnan dishing on everything from cosplay to car chases. They also talk about Ramakrishnan's wildest dream role, how to deal with haters and why she hopes this is just the beginning – for her, and for other nerdy brown girls who want to make it in Hollywood.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Crafting the narrative of Elon Musk Oct 14, 2022

The saga around Elon Musk's deal to buy Twitter has been just that: a months-long soap opera involving lawsuits and subpoenas, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, even a town hall. But why does Musk — one of the world's richest and arguably most influential men — want with a social media platform?
Host Brittany Luse dives into the dreams and myths surrounding Elon Musk with Jill Lepore, a political historian and host of the podcast Elon Musk: The Evening Rocket. They look back at his science fiction and fantasy influences and ask where his vision could lead.
Then, Brittany brings on senior producer Barton Girdwood to play a brand new game called, Sounds Fake, But OK.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRITsBeenaMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'The Woman King' and when movies aren't history lessons Oct 12, 2022

When our host Brittany Luse first heard of The Woman King – a film about an all-women warrior unit defending the West African kingdom of Dahomey during the years of the Atlantic slave trade – the idea made her nervous. Hollywood's record with Black historical dramas is pretty checkered. But then she saw it.
In this episode, Brittany breaks down the film's significance and the task of approaching historical representations in fiction. She sat down with actor Sheila Atim – who plays the warrior Amenza – to talk about the physical trainings, the joys of making a movie with actors from across the diaspora and how Atim has played characters on different sides of the Atlantic slave trade. Then Brittany is joined by Maya Cade, creator and curator of Black Film Archive, and culture critic Shamira Ibrahim. They discuss how to square historical accuracy with a satisfying Hollywood narrative.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Stacey Abrams is running against history Oct 07, 2022

Stacey Abrams wants to make history again. After losing the Georgia governor's race to Brian Kemp back in 2018, Abrams — the first Black woman to be a major party's gubernatorial candidate — spent four years coalition building across the state. Now she's back, armed with a national reputation, the experience of running for statewide office and a fresh determination to defend her state from voter suppression. Will it be enough to make her the country's first Black woman governor?
In her debut as the new host of It's Been a Minute, Brittany Luse talks to Abrams herself — about the power and pitfalls of being an icon; how she deals with criticism from inside her own party; and what it will take to shift the politics of the Deep South.
Brittany also brings on Christina Greer, political scientist at Fordham University, to discuss Abrams' strategy and how the former minority leader mirrors other Black women politicians who made history.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRITsBeenaMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

May we present our new host...Brittany Luse Oct 05, 2022

NPR is proud to present Brittany Luse as the new host for It's Been A Minute. Whether you're a long time listener or you're just finding the show, you know that culture doesn't happen by accident. Find out why with Brittany every Tuesday and Friday starting October 7.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting Alt.Latino: Rosalía on what makes a 'Motomami' Oct 04, 2022

Today we have a special drop from our friends at NPR's Alt.Latino! The show just welcomed Anamaria Sayre as a new co-host alongside Felix Contreras. In this conversation, Anamaria chats with Spanish musician Rosalía about her recent album Motomami, how she uses the album to play in different genres, and why she embraces change.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Tiny Desk became a go-to spot for hip-hop Sep 30, 2022

When folks think about where to get the latest in hip-hop, NPR doesn't usually come to mind. But that's changing, thanks to the team at the Tiny Desk Concerts, which was just nominated as the Best Hip-Hop Platform for the 2022 BET Awards. Since 2008, Tiny Desk Concerts have delighted millions of listeners and viewers on YouTube with stripped-down performances from their favorite artists. Now the series is proving it's also an authentic space for showcasing all forms of hip-hop. Guest host Elise Hu talks to Tiny Desk Concerts series producer Bobby Carter about bringing new musicians into the mix, what goes on behind the scenes and where the team wants to take the show next.
Then, Elise plays a Tiny Desk edition of 'Who Said That' with Carter and video producer Josh Bryant.
Finally, Elise chats with P.E. Moskowitz, author of the 'Mental Hellth' newsletter, about how terms from therapy have crept into our daily language. Does it help or harm how we think about mental health?
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

For author Julissa Arce, 'sounding white' isn't a compliment Sep 27, 2022

Julissa Arce used to think that the secret to fitting in was to "sound white" — to speak English perfectly, with no accent. And for years after her family came to the U.S. from Mexico, she did all the things immigrants are "supposed" to do to assimilate: she went to college, got a job at Goldman Sachs and became an American citizen.
It wasn't enough. So Arce decided that the solution was to stop trying to fit in, and instead embrace her whole identity. Her ideas come to life in her book, You Sound Like a White Girl: The Case for Rejecting Assimilation.
In this encore episode from this past March, guest host Elise Hu revisits her conversation with Arce about the book, and what it means to celebrate your own culture and history.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenaMin and email us ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Judy Greer on 'Reboot' — And Why Are There So Many Reboots, Anyway? Sep 23, 2022

We talk TV REBOOTS. Guest host Elise Hu chats with Judy Greer about her role in the new Hulu series Reboot; her work as a comedic actress, and the state of television. Then, Elise talks with Daniel Herbert, associate professor of film and TV at the University of Michigan and co-editor of the book Film Reboots, about why so many old shows are being remade now. Plus, a special reboot-themed "Who Said That!" with Rob Pearlstein, co-executive producer and writer of the CBS MacGyver reboot (note: Rob is also Elise's partner) and his sister Joanna Pearlstein, opinion editor at The New York Times.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How HBO transformed television Sep 20, 2022

HBO gave us some of the most iconic television shows of our time: Sex and the City. The Sopranos. Game of Thrones. But is the era of HBO coming to a close?
Earlier this year, HBO's parent company, Warner Media, merged with Discovery. By next year, the new Warner Bros. Discovery will combine HBO Max with Discovery Plus into an as-yet unnamed umbrella streaming service. The merger raises questions about what's next for the HBO brand – including whether or not "HBO" will still mean "quality TV" once the dust settles.
Guest host Elise Hu talks to Charles Pulliam-Moore, who covers TV and film for The Verge, about HBO's legacy, how it paved the way for prestige TV, and what changes at the company could mean for what kind of television we'll see.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at IBAM@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Who needs the monarchy? Plus, why gray floors and barn doors are everywhere Sep 16, 2022

King Charles III doesn't enjoy the same popularity as his mother. In the face of mixed feelings towards the new king, some are asking: Is this the beginning of the end of the British monarchy? Guest host Elise Hu talks to Dr. Shola Mos-Shogbamimu, lawyer, activist and author of This Is Why I Resist about this new era for the British royals, the power they hold and the potential opportunities for the new monarch.
Then, Elise chats with Atlantic writer Amanda Mull about the HGTV-ification of interior design and what the trend says about the housing market.
Lastly, Elise plays a fast-food-themed version of Who Said That with Sarah and Kaitlin Leung, sisters and co-authors of the upcoming cookbook, The Woks of Life: Recipes to Know and Love from a Chinese American Family: A Cookbook.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Girls' Generation shaped K-pop as we know it Sep 13, 2022

To celebrate their 15th anniversary, the K-pop group Girls' Generation put out their newest album, 'Forever 1.' Today, we're taking a look back at their career and how they changed the standards for K-pop through music, choreography and beauty. Their impact doesn't stop at that — Girls' Generation's debut song is now being used to change the world, just not in the way they planned. Guest host Elise Hu discusses their legacy with music critic Tamar Herman and Korean film and culture scholar Michelle Cho.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Serena's final serve; plus, the Emmys in an era of too much TV Sep 09, 2022

Serena Williams just played her last U.S. Open. In the historic two-plus decades of her tennis career, she's won 23 Grand Slams and four Olympic gold medals — all while becoming a mother, dealing with injuries and health crises and facing more scrutiny and downright bias than her peers. Guest host Elise Hu talks to Alex Abad-Santos, senior correspondent at Vox, about her legacy in sports and beyond.
Plus, the 74th Annual Emmy Awards are on Monday, Sept. 12. In this era of so much TV, how are nominees rising to the top? And how are the different streaming services standing out in the crowd? Elise talks to TV critics Lorraine Ali of the Los Angeles Times and Roxana Hadadi of Vulture about what to expect. They also play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

t.A.T.u's 'All The Things She Said' still runs through our heads Sep 06, 2022

The Russian pop duo t.A.T.u released their smash single "All The Things She Said" 20 years ago this week. To this day, the bop is a queer staple, but should it be?
From t.A.T.u to Britney Spears and Madonna, the early 2000s were full of straight women dabbling in queerness for profit. In this episode, senior producer Barton Girdwood sits down with author Jill Gutowitz (Girls Can Kiss Now) to talk about how these moments gave young queer millennials a taste of their sexuality even though it was all an act. They discuss whether or not a false representation can still be meaningful, and how the basic formula of "All The Things She Said" gets lesbianism right — even though so much of it is wrong.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at IBAM@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The game has changed for D&D and 'A League of Their Own' Sep 02, 2022

For a long time, Dungeons & Dragons was stereotyped as a game for nerdy young white guys in their parents' basement. But not anymore — the game has exploded in popularity and players of all backgrounds are joining in. Guest co-host Andrea Gutierrez talks to Jasmine Bhullar and Persephone Valentine, both content creators and dungeon masters, about how D&D has become an exciting medium for marginalized people to tell new kinds of fantasy stories.
Then, Andrea sits down with Chanté Adams, star of the new Amazon Prime series A League of Their Own. Adams plays Maxine Chapman, a queer Black woman loosely based on historic female players in the Negro Leagues. The role also expands on a non-speaking, unnamed character in the original 1992 film. Adams talks about seeking complex Black characters to portray onscreen, and bringing her family into each new role.
Finally, Andrea tests All Things Considered host Ailsa Chang and producer Mia Venkat on their pop culture news knowledge in a game of Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

From cupcakes to private jets, how the quest for status drives culture Aug 30, 2022

What is culture, where does it come from and why does it change? W. David Marx, author of the new book Status and Culture: How Our Desire for Social Rank Creates Taste, Identity, Art, Fashion, and Constant Change, says the answers come from our desire for prestige. Marx tells guest host Elise Hu how status has historically worked to drive trends like gourmet cupcakes or dark wash jeans, how the internet can lead to cultural stagnation, and ways we can redefine status to build a more equitable society.
Status and Culture is out Sept. 6.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at IBAM@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Will BeReal just make us BeFake? Plus, A Guidebook To Smell Aug 26, 2022

BeReal may be the hottest new social media app on the market, but can it live up to its promise to be a more authentic alternative to other platforms? Guest co-host Elise Hu talks with writers Haley Nahman and Ryan Broderick about how BeReal signifies a shift in what we want from our apps and why social media always barrels towards its worst self. They also flex their pop culture knowledge in a game of Who Said That.
Then, guest co-host Andrea Gutierrez talks with Jude Stewart, author of Revelations in Air: A Guidebook to Smell. They discuss trends in fragrance, how COVID is making us change how we think about smells, and why scent is so tied to memory and emotion.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Code Switch': The glittering neon universe of 'P-Valley' with Katori Hall Aug 23, 2022

The Starz hit series P-Valley takes audiences to a strip club in a fictional town in the Mississippi Delta. Part soap opera, part Southern Gothic, the show focuses on the interior lives of the Black women who work at the club — and the complex social dynamics that shape their lives. On this episode from our friends at Code Switch, co-hosts Gene Demby and B.A. Parker speak with series creator and Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Katori Hall.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bad Bunny's dream for Puerto Rico; plus, 'Koshersoul' Aug 19, 2022

Bad Bunny is the biggest pop star in the world, so what does he believe in? Guest host Tracie Hunte and political anthropologist Yarimar Bonilla look at the politics of Bad Bunny, and his vision of a Puerto Rico for Puerto Ricans.
Plus, Tracie talks to James Beard award-winning author Michael W. Twitty about his new book, "Koshersoul," how we connect to our histories through food and what makes a kitchen sacred.
And later, Tracie plays Who Said That? with her group chat! Her friends Alana Casanova-Burgess, host and producer of La Brega from WNYC and Futuro Studios, and Rebeca Ibarra, host and producer of The Refresh from Insider, go head-to-head to win the title of Who Said That? champion.
Warning: some Spanish speakers may find language in this episode offensive.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Joyful protests and funny rituals with Reservation Dogs' Dallas Goldtooth Aug 16, 2022

In FX's Reservation Dogs, Dallas Goldtooth plays the character "Spirit" — a Native American warrior in feathers and buckskin who curses and makes dirty jokes. Dallas also brings his irreverence to the frontlines of protests against oil pipelines. He talks to guest host Tracie Hunte about merging his passions for comedy and organizing, and how he's changing stereotypes with heaps of joy.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Russia's long played with U.S. racial politics. Brittney Griner is the latest example Aug 12, 2022

What does Brittney Griner's hypervisibility as a tall, queer, Black woman have to do with her 9-year sentence in a Russian prison? A lot, according to historian Kimberly St. Julian-Varnon, who studies race and Blackness in Russia. She chats with guest host Tracie Hunte about what Griner's detainment means for Black queer folks who travel and the antagonism surrounding the case.
Then, Tracie talks about the big moment Nigerian pop culture is having in the U.S. She is joined by Nigerian American filmmaker and artist Amarachi Nwosu to discuss why this is happening now and how Nigeria's success might impact pop culture from other African nations.
Plus, we play Who Said That! Tracie connects with NPR's B. A. Parker and Juana Summers to test their pop culture knowledge.
You can follow us on Twitter @npritsbeenamin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

In 'Industry,' Myha'la Herrold makes herself undeniable Aug 09, 2022

In HBO's Industry, Myha'la Herrold plays Harper, a ruthless young trading floor analyst working for a bank in London. We've seen characters like her before — think of the power-obsessed personalities in shows like Billions and Succession. The big difference? The stakes are much higher for a young Black woman like Harper.
Myha'la talks to guest host Tracie Hunte about the new season of Industry, bringing her own context to a complex, morally ambiguous character and why she credits her mom for her success.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

All things comedy: HBO's 'Rap Sh!t,' plus, what's going on with late-night TV? Aug 05, 2022

What do we expect from women rappers? Guest host Tracie Hunte and music and culture journalist Naima Cochrane discuss HBO's Rap Sh!t — and how it portrays women in hip hop walking the line between sexuality and respectability.
Then, Tracie talks to NPR TV critic Eric Deggans about recent shake-ups in late-night TV. They look at the genre's influence on comedy and what the future looks like for women and comedians of color.
Plus, we play Who Said That! Tracie brings on her WNYC colleagues Alex Neason, producer and editor for Radiolab, and Janae Pierre, host of WNYC's Consider This.
You can follow us on Twitter @npritsbeenamin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why protecting the 'viral underclass' can keep us all healthy Aug 02, 2022

After years of covering HIV and AIDS, journalist Steven Thrasher knew that the hardest hit communities were almost always the poorest and most marginalized ones. Then COVID-19 struck, and he saw that the same groups of people were suffering the most.
In his new book The Viral Underclass: The Human Toll When Inequality and Disease Collide, Thrasher explores how this pattern plays out in communities around the world. Guest host Tracie Hunte talks to him about the ways that systemic oppression puts marginalized people at greater risk of infection for all diseases – and also blames them for transmission.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bow down, Queen Bey's 'Renaissance' era has finally arrived Jul 29, 2022

Beyoncé's new album is here! Guest host Anna Sale chats with Dan Runcie, founder of the hip hop site Trapital, and Joey Guerra, music critic for the Houston Chronicle. They talk about Renaissance, what Beyoncé means to us and how this album meets the moment.
Also, It's Been a Minute producer Liam McBain talks to culture writer Crispin Long about their shared obsession with reality dating shows. They discuss how these shows lay bare our society's obsession with marriage, and why reality dating drama is so compelling — even to folks who don't buy into the fixation on finding "the one."
— Read Crispin's Astra Magazine essay on reality dating shows: "Heterosexual Vortex"
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'The Limits': Colman Domingo on success, grief and powerful characters Jul 26, 2022

In this episode from our friends at The Limits with Jay Williams, host Jay Williams speaks with Colman Domingo, the ultimate character actor, known for stealing scenes in films like Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Selma and If Beale Street Could Talk. He embodies every character he takes on, most recently earning an Emmy nod for his role as father-figure Ali to Zendaya's Rue on HBO's Euphoria.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Nope' and the history of Black horror; plus, when to say 'no' to the news Jul 22, 2022

These days, following the news can be utterly demoralizing. How do we deal? Guest host Anna Sale talks to Amanda Ripley, journalist and anchor of the Slate podcast How To!, about strategies for staying informed without stressing out (too much).
Then, Anna chats with author, educator and producer Tananarive Due about the history of the Black horror genre ahead of the release of Jordan Peele's Nope. They talk about how horror can be a way to process trauma, how marginalized creators can — but don't always — reclaim old movie tropes and where Black horror is today.
Finally, Anna plays Who Said That with It's Been a Minute guest hosts pf the past, present and future: Julia Furlan, executive producer of the podcast Death, Sex & Money, and WNYC's Tracie Hunte.
— Read Amanda Ripley's opinion piece: "I stopped reading the news. Is the problem me — or the product?"
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Death, Sex & Money': From manager to labor activist Jul 19, 2022

From guest host Anna Sale's other podcast Death, Sex & Money, we bring you this story about Mary Gundel, whose journey from manager to labor activist starts out on TikTok, during a bad day at work, and ends with her losing her job —but finding her power.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

988 is the new mental health hotline. Can it change how we respond to crisis? Jul 14, 2022

Starting July 16, anyone in the US experiencing emotional distress or a mental health crisis can call the phone number 988 and reach a crisis counselor. Guest host Anna Sale talks to Hannah Wesolowski, chief advocacy officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about bringing local call centers into this network, what challenges they're facing and how it will reshape how we view mental health resourcing.
Then Anna talks to Pop Culture Happy Hour host Aisha Harris about why so many biopics get produced and what makes a good one. Antonia Cereijido, executive producer at LAist Studios, joins Anna and Aisha to play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Writer Erika L. Sánchez on mental health, Lisa Simpson and 'Crying in the Bathroom' Jul 12, 2022

In 2017, author Erika L. Sánchez was making her dreams come true, her young adult novel I'm Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter earning critical acclaim.But even as she rose to fame, Sánchez found herself struggling with her mental health. Her new memoir, Crying in the Bathroom, captures the tension between her public success and her private suffering — and more. Sánchez talks with guest host Anna Sale about sharing some of her darkest moments with readers, caring for her mental health and what she's learned from her personal role model — Lisa Simpson.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Hoochie daddy shorts give more than a lil leg; plus, let's get 'Seen, Heard and Paid' Jul 08, 2022

They're short, sexy and on-trend: Hoochie daddy shorts are all the rage for cisgender straight men this summer. And this week, they are the center of a conversation between guest host Anna Sale and writer and poet Danez Smith about sex, gender and freedom. What do higher hemlines on men reveal about the gender anxiety rippling through America today?
Also, Anna speaks with Wired editor Alan Henry about his new book Seen, Heard, and Paid: The New Work Rules for the Marginalized. They discuss how employees of marginalized identities can navigate workplace dynamics, and focus on work that can advance their careers.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'X' explores pleasure and pain in a dystopic world Jul 05, 2022

How do freedom and rights intersect with sex, pleasure and the self? It's a question the U.S. is facing in the wake of the Supreme Court's recent decision to overturn Roe v. Wade — and a central theme in writer Davey Davis's new novel. In X, Davis relocates the conflict over these ideas from courts and abortion clinics to queer clubs and BDSM dungeons in a more dystopic version of our present.
In this episode, guest host Anna Sale talks to Davis about why sadism is romantic, how bureaucracy can become a tool of oppression and why bad behavior doesn't make us less human.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Staying grounded after Roe v. Wade; plus, let's talk about fat liberation Jul 01, 2022

The Supreme Court gutted abortion rights by overturning Roe v. Wade. For those who have been in the trenches of the reproductive justice movement — people who saw this coming — is there anything left to feel hopeful about? Guest host B.A. Parker chats with four young organizers about their stories and their plans for the future.
Plus, Parker talks with cultural critic and writer Clarkisha Kent about navigating body positivity discourse as Black women and how the movement has strayed from its more radical origins in fat liberation. Kent's forthcoming book Fat Off, Fat On: A Big Bitch Manifesto comes out in 2023.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

When parents say sorry on-screen Jun 28, 2022

Family conflict is a cinema staple. But recently Hollywood has come out with a slew of stories about parents and children confronting gaps in culture, generation and identity — from animated films like Encanto and Turning Red, to the recent miniseries Ms. Marvel and the indie hit Everything Everywhere All at Once. Vox entertainment critic Emily St. James calls the subgenre the "millennial parent apology fantasy." She shares with guest host B.A. Parker how the form came to be, what its limits are and how it could pave the way for new perspectives about trauma and family.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Guess who's back in the house (music scene); plus, 'Would it Kill You to Laugh' Jun 24, 2022

In a matter of days Beyoncé and Drake both released music that draws deeply on 90s era house music. Neither of them are queer, but the they're borrowing from a genre that has been liberating for Black & Latino queer people from the 70s to today. In this episode our June guest host B.A. Parker welcomes Back Issue's co-host Josh Gwynn to chat about house music's roots and the genre's resurgence. Also, comedians Kate Berlant & John Early talk about their new special Would it Kill You to Laugh. They're great friends, and they let us in on some of their inside jokes.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Fangirls rule the internet in 'Everything I Need, I Get From You' Jun 21, 2022

Fangirls often don't get taken seriously in pop culture. But in her new book, Everything I Need, I Get From You: How Fangirls Created the Internet as We Know It, culture reporter Kaitlyn Tiffany explores just how much fangirls have shaped online life. She talks with guest host B.A. Parker about how fans used Tumblr to transform internet culture, how being a One Direction fan enriched her own life and why fandom is more complicated than we might think.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why old is new again in pop music; plus, 'Rutherford Falls' Jun 17, 2022

When singer-songwriter Kate Bush released "Running Up That Hill" in 1985, it peaked at number 30 on the Hot 100. Now it's soared into the top ten, thanks to the newest season of Stranger Things. Guest host B.A. Parker talks to Stereogum writers Rachel Brodsky and Chris Deville about why old music seems to be getting more love than new music these days — and how even new music seems retro. Plus, actor and writer Jana Schmieding on the second season of Rutherford Falls, exploring physical comedy, and honoring aunties.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Joseph Han on U.S. imperialism, Korean ghosts and Guy Fieri Jun 14, 2022

We don't often think of Hawaii and the Korean peninsula as having any kind of shared history. But author Joseph Han disagrees — and he makes the case in his debut novel Nuclear Family. In this episode, Han and guest host B.A. Parker discuss the book and Han's experience as a Korean immigrant in Hawaii. And they unpack the long effects of U.S. imperialism and military presence in both places. Along the way, they get into ghosts, grandmas and Guy Fieri.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Even influencers are burning out; plus, there's nothing boring about 'Normal Gossip' Jun 10, 2022

These days, it seems everyone wants to be an influencer. But as content creators realize that it's a demanding, often short-lived career, they're forcing us to think hard about the future of an industry that's still on the rise. Guest host B.A. Parker speaks with Rebecca Jennings, senior correspondent at Vox, who reported on how influencer burnout is a microcosm of our changing relationship with work.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Joel Kim Booster on making a queer, Asian American 'Pride and Prejudice' Jun 07, 2022

The first time Joel Kim Booster vacationed on New York's Fire Island with his friend, comedian Bowen Yang, he brought with him Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice as a beach read. Over the years, he'd often joke with friends about making a gay version of the novel. Today Booster is the writer and star of Hulu's Fire Island, a queer, Asian romcom based on Austen's classic, set in the titular gay vacation spot. Booster talks with guest host Elise Hu about how the film honors his queer friendships, subverts hetero romcom norms, and tells a personal story that feels universal.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Reframing guns on screen; plus, is it just us, or are movies getting longer? Jun 03, 2022

Once again, Americans are asking how to end mass shootings. With consensus on gun laws unlikely, some are turning to Hollywood to help change the narrative. Can those who control the levers of culture shift the public's relationship with guns? Guest host Elise Hu speaks with former video game creative and now TV writer Nadra Widatalla about a world where on-screen heroes don't rely on guns.
Plus, seriously, why are movies so long? It isn't scientific but it sure feels like movies are racking up the minutes. Elise chats with Variety reporter Rebecca Rubin about total runtimes — and if they aren't actually getting longer, why does it feel that way?
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bruce Talamon on photographing Black excellence in the 1970s May 31, 2022

Name a Black musician from the 1970s and chances are Bruce Talamon has photographed them. The Jackson 5. Aretha Franklin. Marvin Gaye. Donna Summer. Bob Marley. The list goes on.
For the final episode of our summer music series, former host Sam Sanders talks to Talamon about his incredible collection of photographs and what it was like to capture intimate moments with such iconic artists.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Life Kit': Making the most of travel and your time off May 27, 2022

In this episode from our friends at Life Kit, guest host Elise Hu teaches us how to make the most of our time off. Joined by travel writer Torre deRoche and artist Jenny Odell, they go beyond travel tips and investigate why we travel and share what travel means to them.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Phoebe Bridgers On 'Punisher' and Hate Touring May 24, 2022

Singer Phoebe Bridgers had a huge year in 2020. She was nominated for four Grammys for her work on her album Punisher. The album was released to wide critical acclaim. But like the rest of us, Bridgers was stuck at home. So what's that really like for a musician? In the latest episode of our summer music series, we revisit Sam Sanders' conversation with Phoebe from 2020. They talk about her love/hate relationship with touring, how she aims for the universal in the specificity of her lyrics, and her hopes for the future of music.
Watch the extended video version of this interview: https://youtu.be/nTmW6jr_hd0
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Pop Culture Happy Hour': Beauty & pain of 'Jerrod Carmichael: Rothaniel' May 20, 2022

In this special episode from our friends at Pop Culture Happy Hour, guest host Aisha Harris talks with journalists Tre'vell Anderson and Jarrett Hill about stand-up comedian Jerrod Carmichael's new HBO special Rothaniel where Carmichael comes out publicly as gay for the first time and talks about secrets that have haunted his family for multiple generations.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

From Odd Future to The Internet, Syd May 17, 2022

In this encore episode from 2018, former host Sam Sanders speaks with singer-songwriter Syd about her work with the hip-hop collective Odd Future and now with her own group – The Internet. The two discuss how she produced The Internet's fourth album, Hive Mind, and how she incorporates songwriting her sexuality.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'End of Roe' and your digital search history; plus, the villain of 'Selling Sunset' May 13, 2022

With the anticipated repeal of Roe v. Wade, it's unclear how Americans will access abortion and other reproductive care. Will tech platforms continue to provide the same information about services in states where the procedure is outlawed? And what risk does your digital footprint create, if you seek information about abortion or other reproductive health care? Guest host Elise Hu talks it out with Rachel Cohen, senior policy reporter at Vox News and Lil Kalish from CalMatters.
Plus, you love to hate her on Selling Sunset; Christine Quinn is in the house! Elise chats with Christine about her villainous persona and her book, How to Be a Boss B*tch.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Singer Yebba on 'Dawn' May 10, 2022

Yebba had a huge year in 2016. The singer and songwriter's career was taking off. But 2016 was also the year that something awful happened: Yebba's mother died by suicide. And that changed everything in her life. In this encore chat from 2021, former host Sam Sanders and Yebba discuss the emotional toll it took to make her recent album Dawn, growing up in the church, and shedding old beliefs while making room for new ones.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The consequences of losing Roe v. Wade, plus, Summer of Books May 06, 2022

Protests erupted across the nation this week in the wake of a leaked Supreme Court brief suggesting the landmark "Roe v. Wade" abortion ruling will be overturned. The decision could endanger people seeking medical care and set a precedent for challenging other reproductive rights. Guest host Elise Hu discusses patients' concerns with health and gender reporter Shefali Luthra of "The 19th" and Dr. Jennifer Kerns, an OBGYN and associate professor at the University of California, San Francisco.
Then, Elise chats with authors Jasmine Guillory and Emma Straub about the best books to read this summer. They also play Who Said That.
Some books mentioned in this episode:
By the Book - Jasmine Guillory
This Time Tomorrow - Emma Straub
Love Radio - Ebony LaDelle
Funny You Should Ask - Elissa Sussman
Bomb Shelter - Mary Laura Philpott
Sorrow and Bliss - Meg Mason
The L ifestyle - Taylor Hahn
I'll Be You - Janelle Brown
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What makes Drake's 'God's Plan' a hit pop song May 02, 2022

Attention to all the music lovers out there! All month, we're revisiting our best music episodes from It's Been a Minute. In this episode from February 2020, former host Sam Sanders is joined by Nate Sloan and Charlie Harding, co-hosts of the podcast Switched On Pop. They break down what makes a song: why certain pop songs become ear worms and what their form and structure mean for the future of music. Sloan and Harding deconstruct songs in their 2020 book, Switched On Pop: How Popular Music Works and Why It Matters.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Anti-trans legislation; plus, Broadway is back Apr 29, 2022

Legislation targeting transgender Americans and trans children has increased sharply in the last year. Guest host Ari Shapiro speaks with the Florida mother of a trans daughter about how their family is coping with that state's new, more restrictive policies. Then, Ari discusses how this wave of law-making differs from so-called "moral panics" of past decades — and why that matters — with historian Jules Gill-Peterson, of Johns Hopkins University.
Then, Broadway is back and bigger than ever, with 16 new shows opening this month. But this Broadway burst hasn't been immune to the pandemic. "Macbeth" director Sam Gold talks to Ari about having to go onstage himself this month, when too many of his cast tested positive for Covid; and about what feels different as actors and audiences try to get back to normal.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The power in owning your 'Big Feelings' Apr 26, 2022

Guest host Juana Summers speaks with co-authors Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy about their new book, Big Feelings: How to Be Okay When Things Are Not Okay. In the book, Liz and Mollie explore seven emotions that they found particularly difficult to overcome — uncertainty, anger, burnout, comparison, perfectionism, despair and grief. With hopes to normalize conversations on these "big feelings," they talk about the power in owning and sharing their emotions and what they've gained in the process.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

COVID travel mask mandates drop; plus, 'Oprahdemics' Apr 22, 2022

With travel mask mandates dropping, increasing cases, and more COVID variants, precaution exhaustion is real, but the pandemic is far from over. Guest host Juana Summers talks with science writer Katherine J. Wu of The Atlantic about how the U.S. has moved from a collective approach to an individual-focused mindset in its handling of the pandemic.
Then, Juana is joined by Kellie Carter Jackson and Leah Wright Rigueur, hosts of the new Oprahdemics podcast, to talk about Oprah Winfrey's reign as 'Queen of Talk' and her influence on the culture.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Danyel Smith highlights Black women who defined pop music in 'Shine Bright' Apr 19, 2022

Guest host Juana Summers talks with Danyel Smith about her new memoir, Shine Bright: A Personal History of Black Women in Pop. As a previous editor-in-chief for both Billboard and Vibe magazines, host of the Black Girl Songbook podcast, and longtime music reporter, Danyel uses her expertise to spotlight the stories of pop powerhouses like Gladys Knight, Mahalia Jackson, Whitney Houston, and more. Danyel crafts a love letter to Black women in pop, capturing the intimate details of who they were, their influence on her, and how their music changed pop forever.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Etsy sellers on strike; plus, the creators of 'ROAR' Apr 15, 2022

From homemade candles to jewelry, leather goods to cloth masks, online marketplace Etsy has been a haven for makers looking to sell their goods and build small businesses for themselves. But with fees increasing, some sellers are frustrated and have gone on strike. Guest host Juana Summers is joined by Wall Street Journal reporter Charity Scott to learn more about how sellers feel and what it means for online shopping.
Then, Juana is joined by GLOW creators Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch to chat about their upcoming Apple TV+ series, ROAR.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Broken Record': An Interview With Nas Apr 12, 2022

In this special episode from our friends at the Broken Recordpodcast,we will hear producer Rick Rubin's conversation with hip-hop legend Nas. Rick talks to Nas about his earliest experiences with rap in the Queensbridge housing projects where he grew up, how recording King's Disease with Kanye West in Wyoming almost took him out of his zone, and how early beef with Jay-Z made them both stronger rappers.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The problem of diversity in 'Bridgerton'; plus, the Latinx history of punk music Apr 08, 2022

Guest host Jasmine Garsd talks to Kristen Warner, an associate professor at the University of Alabama, about Bridgerton's diversity problem. They discuss color blind v. color-conscious casting, how race factors into historical narratives and why any representation isn't always good representation.
Then, Jasmine catches up with host Ceci Bastida and creator Núria Net about their new podcast, Punk In Translation: Latinx Origins, about the role of Latinx and Latin American musicians in the history of punk music. They also play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'True Story': Danielle Lindemann on 'What Reality TV Says About Us' Apr 05, 2022

In this special new episode of It's Been a Minute, we share a conversation Sam Sanders recorded about one of his favorite things: reality TV. He's joined by Danielle Lindemann, author of True Story: What Reality TV Says About Us, to discuss the genre's origins in Real World and Survivor, how reality TV influences our culture, and why we should all take the genre more seriously.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The vibe has shifted; plus, 'Conversations with People Who Hate Me' Apr 01, 2022

You may see it in the news or on social media. You may be feeling different in your relationships or with your job. The "vibe" has shifted. Our guest host Jasmine Garsd is joined by Elamin Abdelmahmoud, culture writer for BuzzFeed News and host of CBC's pop culture podcast Pop Chat, to learn more about this vibe shift and why we all may be feeling a little off right now.
Plus, a chat with Dylan Marron, author and host of the book/podcast Conversations with People Who Hate Me on how he talks to people with opposing views. That'sfollowed by a game of Who Said That with Jonny Sun.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bringing 'Pachinko' from page to the screen Mar 29, 2022

Elise Hu chats with Soo Hugh, writer and showrunner of the much anticipated series Pachinko, based on the 2017 novel by Min Jin Lee. It's the epic story of a family through four generations across the 20th century, all about their lives as Zainichi Koreans in Japan. In this chat, Hugh talks about what it was like to bring the beloved book to screen, what she's is doing to support Asian American creators coming up behind her, and why this story resonates with people of all backgrounds.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

And the Oscar goes to... Mar 25, 2022

A trimmed telecast? A crowd-sourced award? DJ Khaled as a presenter? The Oscars are back like you've never seen them before. Guest host Elise Hu is joined by Pop Culture Happy Hour host and reporter Aisha Harris and NPR film critic Bob Mondello to talk about these new changes and their top picks for who's taking home the big awards of the night. Then, they play a game of Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Rejecting assimilation in 'You Sound Like a White Girl' Mar 22, 2022

A school crush once told Julissa Arce that she sounded "like a white girl." At the time, Arce believed that was exactly what she wanted. But over the years, even after perfecting "accent-less" English, graduating from college, getting a job at Goldman Sachs, and becoming an American citizen, Arce still felt like she didn't belong. Instead of just trying to fit in as the solution, Arce began to question whether that was the very problem to begin with. Elise Hu talks to Arce about her new book — You Sound Like a White Girl — and the case for rejecting assimilation in favor of embracing yourself, your history, and your culture.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

One year later, the Atlanta spa shootings; plus, tech on TV Mar 18, 2022

It's been one year since the Atlanta-area spa shootings that claimed eight lives, six of whom were Asian women. Guest host Elise Hu reflects on the event with Nicole Chung, author of the memoir All You Can Ever Know and a contributing writer for The Atlantic. They discuss their own experiences and the unprecedented violence that Asian Americans—especially Asian American women—are facing.
Plus, are tech TV shows about failures and scams a worthy critique or part of the problem? Elise and Nitasha Tiku, tech culture writer for the Washington Post, discuss the latest TV adaptations of tech scandals: WeCrashed, Super Pumped, and The Dropout. Then, a game of 'Who Said That?' with Nitasha's friend and colleague Heather Kelly.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at ibam@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me!': Everyone & Their Mom Mar 15, 2022

Our friends at Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me! have a new show out with host Emma Choi. It's called Everyone & Their Mom. For her first episode, Emma is joined by comedian Josh Gondelman to discuss a saucy situation. Celebrity chef Roy Choi also joins to troubleshoot a kimchi recipe with Emma's grandma. Emma then settles an age old debate: heels or rollerblades?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Sam says goodbye Mar 11, 2022

It's Been A Minute is sticking around, but before our beloved Sam Sanders takes flight we've got news to cover! In Sam's last episode as host, he's joined by NPR Weekend Edition Sunday host Ayesha Rascoe and NPR Congressional Correspondent Susan Davis to talk about the latest in politics news from gas prices to Ukraine to the upcoming US midterms. He then plays a special game of Who Said That? with his Aunt Betty and her friend, Lynette Maxwell.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The trouble with defining antisemitism Mar 08, 2022

With more extreme antisemitic attacks on the rise and more antisemitic rhetoric in the mainstream, antisemitism has become an increasingly pressing issue in the US. But at the same time, the conversation around antisemitism is getting more fraught. Sam talks with Dov Waxman, professor and director for the UCLA Y&S Nazarian Center for Israel Studies, about what people are getting wrong about antisemitism. They discuss why there's so much contention around what the term means, why it can be hard to talk about, and how to fight antisemitism when it happens.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Sanctions 101 Mar 04, 2022

In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, global powers have put the pressure on with sanctions upon sanctions. But what does that even mean? Class is in session as Sam attends Sanctions 101 with Cardiff Garcia, host of The New Bazaar, and Stacey Vanek Smith, co-host of The Indicator. They talk about how economic sanctions are supposed to work and whether they can be effective enough to change anything on the ground.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Jackass' star Johnny Knoxville has nothing left to prove Mar 01, 2022

It's our 500th episode and what better way to celebrate than with Johnny Knoxville's first appearance on NPR? We couldn't think of a better milestone. In this episode, Sam and Johnny chat about his latest Jackass endeavor with Jackass Foreverwhile also looking back at the reality show that started it all — and how its very first stunt actually shut down production. They also discuss Jackass' queer fanbase and Johnny's time in therapy. Come for the talk about raunchy stunts, stay for the Johnny Knoxville School of Radical Acceptance!
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Trayvon, ten years later Feb 25, 2022

Before George Floyd and Michael Brown, there was Trayvon Martin. And this weekend marks ten years since the watershed moment that planted the seed for the Black Lives Matter movement we know today. A decade later, Sam is joined by Nailah Summers-Polite, co-director of the Dream Defenders, and Georgetown law professor, Paul Butler to discuss their feelings ten years ago and how their activism has evolved along with the movement.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'The Limits': Gabrielle Union stands up for herself Feb 22, 2022

In this episode from our friends at NPR's newest podcast The Limits, host Jay Williams chats with Gabrielle Union — actress, activist, producer, entrepreneur and author of the books We're Going to Need More Wine: Stories That Are Funny, Complicated, and True and You Got Anything Stronger? Gabrielle talks to Jay about why "balance" is a myth, her journey with surrogacy and how she she overcame a turbulent time in her relationship with her husband, former NBA star Dwayne Wade.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Ok. I guess we'll talk about the metaverse. Feb 18, 2022

What is the metaverse? How do you get to it? Why does it seem to dominate headlines every week? Is it possibly a sign of our dystopian future? Sam learns all about the metaverse and more with NPR technology correspondent Shannon Bond and NPR tech reporter Bobby Allyn. They define the metaverse, explain why companies are so eager to jump into it, and whether or not we should worry about it.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How to make and sustain Latinx TV Feb 15, 2022

Streaming has totally changed the face of TV, but in all its abundance, who gets to make a show, and which shows live to see another season? Sam chats with TV writer and producer Gloria Calderón Kellett (One Day at a Time, With Love), who has long grappled with this question. They talk about what it takes to make something for your people in the industry right now, what she's doing to claim space for Latinx creatives and how she copes with it all.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The demand for salary transparency, plus a new fresh prince of 'Bel-Air' Feb 11, 2022

Victoria Walker, former The Points Guy senior travel reporter, didn't think much about tweeting her salary when she quit her job and offering advice for anyone interested in applying. But the tweet went viral and sparked a wider conversation about pay transparency. Sam asks Victoria why she did it and talks with Wall Street Journal workplace reporter Lauren Weber about why pay transparency matters.
Plus, Sam chats with Morgan Cooper, creator of Bel-Air, a new dramatic retelling of the The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Then, they play Who Said That? with actor Jordan L. Jones, who plays Jazz on the show.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

China's Influence Over Hollywood Feb 08, 2022

China has held a soft power over Hollywood for the last few decades. Examples range from the cosmetic, like the way Chinese police heroically restore order in films like The 355. It can also be more overt, like China blocking the release of Chloé Zhao's film Eternals in the country. Sam and Erich Schwartzel talk about how and why China has influenced the American film industry and more reporting in his new book Red Carpet: Hollywood, China, and the Global Battle for Cultural Supremacy.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's all politics at the Winter Olympics, plus 'This Is Dating' Feb 04, 2022

It's hard to believe the Winter Olympics have begun in Beijing, our second COVID Games. Sam talks to NPR correspondent Emily Feng about the political implications of this year's Olympics, the crackdowns on activists, and diplomatic boycotts.
Then, Sam talks to Hiwote Getaneh and Jesse Baker, producers of the podcast This Is Dating, a show about first dates. They talk about what the show taught the two of them about love and dating and offer up some advice of their own.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Questlove's 'Summer of Soul' brings lost music back to life Feb 01, 2022

There were two big music festivals happening in the summer of 1969. While one defined an entire generation of culture and music... the other remained obscure — the only recorded footage placed in a basement that was said to have sat, unpublished, for decades. That is, until Questlove's first documentary Summer of Soulcame out last year. In this episode, Sam chats with Questlove about the recent release of the film's soundtrack, the long history of Black erasure, and the memorable performances from the likes of The 5th Dimension, Stevie Wonder (playing the drums!), Mavis Staples, Mahalia Jackson, and Nina Simone.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Whodunit at 'The Afterparty' plus the lie of 'Laziness' Jan 28, 2022

Sam sits down to chat, sing, improv and of course play Who Said That with actors Ben Schwartz and Sam Richardson, stars of the new murder mystery The Afterparty on Apple TV+. Then, Sam revisits his 2021 conversation with Devon Price, author ofLaziness Does Not Exist, where they discuss the lie of laziness and what it means for productivity.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Go Back to Where You Came From: And Other Helpful Recommendations' from Wajahat Ali Jan 25, 2022

Sam chats with author Wajahat Ali about his new book, Go Back To Where You Came From: And Other Helpful Recommendations on Becoming American. The book points out just how hilarious, untenable, and difficult becoming American can actually be. Throughout the book, Ali uses his own story to offer strategies to make America more welcoming and compassionate.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Remembering André Leon Talley Jan 21, 2022

André Leon Talley became a major part of the global fashion zeitgeist while navigating being one of the few, if not the only, Black, queer man at his level. Sam is joined by author and poet Saeed Jones and Zach Stafford, host of the podcast In the Deep, to remember the late fashion editor and celebrate Talley's legacy.
Read Saeed Jones' essay on André Leon Talley here and Zach Stafford's essay here.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The legacy of ACT UP and its fight to end AIDS Jan 18, 2022

Sam revisits his 2021 conversation with Sarah Schulman about ACT UP. The organization united a diverse, non-partisan group of individuals committed to direct action to end the AIDS crisis. In Schulman's book, Let The Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987-1993, she draws from nearly 200 interviews with ACT UP members to document the movement's history and explore how the group's activism transformed the way the media, the government, corporations and medical professionals talked about AIDS and provided treatment. Schulman and Sam discuss this transformation and its relevance to social movements today.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The financial aid conspiracy; plus, 'For Colored Nerds' Jan 14, 2022

A group of elite colleges and universities this week found themselves at the center of a lawsuit alleging that they conspired to limit financial aid to admitted students. Sam talks to Washington Post higher education reporter Danielle Douglas-Gabriel about the lawsuit and what it means for students and families across the country. Plus, Eric Eddings and Brittany Luse join Sam to talk about the era of Black abundance in media and their revamped podcast, For Colored Nerds.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's still Trump's GOP Jan 11, 2022

Former President Donald Trump is still one of the most influential members of the Republican party even after leaving office nearly a year ago. Sam chats with Vann R. Newkirk II, senior editor for The Atlantic, and McKay Coppins, staff writer for The Atlantic, to make sense of what Trump's GOP has been up to this past year — and its strategies going into the next elections.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Revisiting the January 6 insurrection, one year later Jan 07, 2022

It's been a full year since the January 6, 2021 insurrection on the U.S. Capitol, perhaps the most shocking political event of the past year — or even this generation. But has our understanding of the insurrection changed with time? Sam chats with Hannah Allam, national security reporter at The Washington Post, and Tom Dreisbach, NPRinvestigative correspondent, about how the U.S. government has responded to the insurrection — and how we've moved from political polarization into political radicalization.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Throughline': Nikole Hannah-Jones and the war over history Jan 04, 2022

In this special episode from our friends at Throughline, co-hosts Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei explore the war over history with Nikole Hannah-Jones, an investigative journalist at The New York Times and the creator of the 1619 Project. They discuss how the 1619 Project became one of the most dramatic battlegrounds in the fight over our country's historical narratives — and whether an agreed upon history could ever exist.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Looking back at Whitney Houston's 1991 national anthem Dec 31, 2021

Happy New Year's Eve, y'all! Before we officially end 2021, we're revisiting on one of our favorite episodes of the year — our deep dive into Whitney Houston's 1991 national anthem. Sam chats with Danyel Smith, host of Black Girl Songbook, about how Whitney Houston captivated the entire nation with her rendition of the national anthem that year and why it still matters more than 30 years later.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

2021 in music with 'Switched on Pop' Dec 28, 2021

Sam chats with Charlie Harding and Nate Sloan, the two co-hosts of the podcast Switched on Pop, about the year in music. They discuss how TikTok and streaming continue to change the pop landscape and share their favorite albums of 2021.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The holiday movie machine Dec 24, 2021

Do holiday movies actually make money for networks like Hallmark and Netflix? How many Vanessa Hudgens characters is too many Vanessa Hudgens characters? Sam is joined by Pop Culture Happy Hourco-host Linda Holmes and author Kat Chow to discuss the best and worst 2021 holiday movies on TV and talk about the business behind them.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'The View' is cultural (and political) canon Dec 21, 2021

In an era when social media and streaming reign supreme, how has a daytime talk show on network television managed to stay relevant? With help from Ramin Setoodeh (author of the book Ladies Who Punch: The Explosive Inside Story of The View) and writer Amanda FitzSimons (who covered this for The New York Times Magazine), Sam explores why — and how — ABC's The View continues to trend on Twitter, regularly lands presidential candidates in the guest chair, and turns its Hot Topics roundtable into a microcosm of modern-day American politics. Here's looking at you, 2022 midterms!
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Did That Really Happen This Year? Dec 17, 2021

We take a look back on the year in news and pop culture... in quotes. For this special episode of It's Been a Minute, Sam is joined by NPR All Things Considered hosts Audie Cornish and Ari Shapiro to play a deluxe version of our favorite game, Who Said That.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Alt.Latino': Elvis Costello, reimagined en español Dec 14, 2021

In this special episode from our friends at Alt. Latino, host Felix Contreras talks to Elvis Costello and Grammy-winning producer Sebastian Krys about Costello's classic 1978 album, This Year's Model. It was reimagined as Spanish Model this year by a score of Latin artists. And unlike its predecessor, all the songs are in Spanish.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What has Biden accomplished (or not) in 2021? Dec 10, 2021

Now that we're nearly a year into Joe Biden's presidency (and out of Donald Trump's)... what has Biden actually achieved? What promises has he kept or not kept? Sam talks it out with Yamiche Alcindor, White House correspondent for PBS NewsHour and moderator of Washington Week, and Ayesha Rascoe, NPR White House correspondent, about the year of Biden. They also play Who Said That.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How to make working from home better Dec 07, 2021

Has working from home during the pandemic been frustrating for you? You're not alone. Charlie Warzel and Anne Helen Petersen's new book Out of Office: The Big Problem and Bigger Promise of Working from Home tackles how remote work can improve, no matter what industry you're in. They talk to Sam about how companies can create sustainable and flexible work environments, the history of workplace culture in the U.S., and how employees can maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Was 2021 labor's year? Plus, 'Like a Virgin' Dec 03, 2021

Was 2021 the labor movement's year? It certainly felt like it — thousands of workers went on strike this year, at numbers considerably higher than in 2020. But in the context of American labor history, this year's organized strikes are small in comparison. Sam chats with author and labor historian at Georgetown University Lane Windham about why labor activism might be on the rise again. Plus, Rose Dommu and Fran Tirado chat about their new podcast, Like a Virgin, and how they bring their different cultural backgrounds and pop culture sensibilities together. They also play Who Said That?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Pop Culture Happy Hour': is 'Ghostbusters: Afterlife' stuck in nostalgia? Nov 30, 2021

In this special episode from our friends at Pop Culture Happy Hour, guest host Ayesha Rascoe joins co-hosts Glen Weldon and Stephen Thompson as well as NPR contributor Cyrena Touros to talk about the new movie Ghostbusters: Afterlife. They discuss why it's hard to recapture the original Ghostbusters magic and if the latest installment of the franchise added more to its world — or not.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What people miss when talking about banned books Nov 24, 2021

Guest host Ayesha Rascoe is joined by NPR senior editor Barrie Hardymon and Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks podcast, to talk about banned books. They talk about why it's important for kids to discover books freely, even if that means starting a hard conversation with them. They also discuss their favorite — and least favorite — books that often show up on banned book lists.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

From Taylor Swift to Thanksgiving, Dear Prudence gives the gift of advice Nov 23, 2021

What better gift to give this holiday season than the gift of... advice? And solicited advice at that! For this episode, Sam is joined by Jenée Desmond-Harris, Slate's Dear Prudence advice columnist, to help answer everything from how to deal with a partner's overbearing adult daughter to a boyfriend's recent conversion to becoming a Swiftie (read: a fan of Taylor Swift) to the group dynamics of the Thanksgiving prayer in an atheist household. Happy holidays, everybody.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The hidden costs of holiday consumerism Nov 19, 2021

A lot of consumers are worried about supply chain delays this holiday season — but there are also other issues to watch out for when shopping. Guest host Ayesha Rascoe talks about the hidden costs of holiday consumption with The Atlantic staff writer Amanda Mull and The Washington Post retail reporter Abha Bhattarai. They discuss the potential downfalls of buy now, pay later services and where online shopping returns really go. Then, they play a game of Who Said That?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Permission to feel joy with Rax King's 'Tacky' Nov 16, 2021

Why do we feel shame for sincerely enjoying something that others don't like? That's one of the big questions tackled in Rax King's new essay collection Tacky: Love Letters to the Worst Culture We Have to Offer. She talks to Sam about her love of the band Creed, The Cheesecake Factory, and Jersey Shore, and embracing the things that others consider bad taste.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why flying feels so hard; Plus, 'Queer Love in Color' Nov 12, 2021

Now that more people are getting comfortable flying again, it's about time to remind ourselves that, oh yes, flying was sometimes terrible in the Before Times, too! And in 2021, that's still the case — if not more so — with cascading cancellations, staffing and plane shortages, and outbursts from passengers. Sam chats with Natalie Compton, travel reporter at The Washington Post, about the state of the airline industry heading into the holiday travel season... and how to get through it. Plus, author Jamal Jordan discusses his book 'Queer Love in Color,' and what it means to photograph and document queer intimacy. They're also joined by TV producer Hassan Williams for a game of Who Said That?
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Throughline': The Nostalgia Bone Nov 09, 2021

The global pandemic has spawned a different type of epidemic, one of an entirely different nature: a nostalgia outbreak. Longing for 'simpler times' and 'better days', many of us have been turning to 90s dance playlists, TV sitcoms, and sports highlights. We're looking for comfort and safety in the permanence of the past, or at least, what we think the past was. But, when it first appeared, nostalgia itself wasn't considered a feeling; it was a deadly disease. In this episode from our friends at NPR's Throughline podcast, Laine Kaplan-Levenson traces the history of nostalgia from its origins as an illness to the dominating emotion of our time.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

New threats to Roe v. Wade; Plus, Jo Firestone's 'Good Timing' Nov 05, 2021

Sam talks to Slate staff writer Mark Joseph Stern about the Supreme Court hearing challenges to the Texas abortion law and what it all means for Roe v. Wade. Plus, comedian Jo Firestone and her student Nicki Cochrane talk about their new comedy special, Good Timing with Jo Firestone. They also play Who Said That?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Code Switch': Kat Chow's 'Seeing Ghosts' Nov 02, 2021

In this episode from our friends at NPR's Code Switch podcast, Kat Chow chats with former host Shereen Marisol Meraji about her memoir, Seeing Ghosts. After her mother died when Chow was 13, her family rarely discussed how to handle their loss. Chow says she wrote this memoir as a way to talk with her mother about that grief, her navigation of identity and her family's history.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Should I have kids? Move? Recycle? Your climate questions answered Oct 29, 2021

Ahead of the U.N. climate talks in Glasgow this weekend, Sam chats with climate experts Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, marine biologist and writer, and Kendra Pierre-Louis, senior climate reporter with the podcast 'How to Save a Planet.' Together, they answer listener questions about everything from how to talk to your kids about global warming... to how to deal with all of this existential dread.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Switched On Pop': the Cyndi Lauper conspiracy Oct 28, 2021

In this special bonus episode, Sam joins Switched On Popco-host Charlie Harding to talk Cyndi Lauper. Many fall for "Girls Just Want To Have Fun," but Sam's favorite song is the slow burner "All Through The Night," save for one moment: the synthesizer solo. For Sam, this solo never fit in. Charlie investigates the source of Sam's musical malady and uncovers how the '80s got its groove. Hear Sam on another episode of Switched On Pop making the case for why Labrinth's "Sexy MF" should be a modern classic here.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Shea Serrano answers existential questions about rap in 'Hip Hop (And Other Things)' Oct 26, 2021

Author and host of the No Skips podcast Shea Serrano gets obsessive about things — movies, basketball, and now, rap. In Hip Hop (And Other Things), he dives into Cardi B's explosive 2018, the early days of Missy Elliott's career, and the 1995 Source Awards, which he says remains — to this day — one of the biggest nights in rap history.
You can follow us on Twitter at @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why can't Democrats pass legislation? Plus, 'Succession' Oct 22, 2021

Sam chats with NPR national political correspondent Mara Liasson about why dysfunction in the Democratic Party is putting the big "Build Back Better" spending bill in Congressional limbo. Plus, The New Yorker staff writer Doreen St. Felix on Succession, representations of class on TV, and why the plethora of shows about white people being terrible (Succession, The White Lotus, The Undoing, Nine Perfect Strangers, Hacks ... you get the idea) are so addictive. Then, they are joined by The New York Times metro reporter Jazmine Hughes for a game of Who Said That?
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why aren't Black and Indigenous missing persons cases covered enough? Oct 19, 2021

Jermain Charlo was an Indigenous mother who went missing in Montana in the summer of 2018. Relisha Rudd, an 8-year-old Black girl, went missing in Washington, D.C. in March 2014. Neither has been found. Unlike Gabby Petito, these cases didn't grab national headlines. Connie Walker, host of Stolen: The Search for Jermain, and Jonquilyn Hill, host of Through the Cracks, join Sam to discuss why cases of missing Black and Indigenous people don't get the same kind of attention from media and law enforcement. You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Nicole Byer's '#VeryFat #VeryBrave' guide to bikini confidence Oct 15, 2021

Sam revisits his 2020 conversation with comedian and Nailed It! host Nicole Byer on her coffee table book: #VeryFat #VeryBrave: The Fat Girl's Guide to Being #Brave and Not a Dejected, Melancholy, Down-in-the-Dumps Weeping Fat Girl in a Bikini. They talk about home goods, drunken bravery, and learning to love yourself.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pop music's 'Latin Explosion' of 1999 Oct 12, 2021

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Latino artists like Ricky Martin, Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira ruled the pop charts. But who was that so-called "Latin Explosion" actually for, and what were the business considerations behind it? In the third part of our series exploring crossover in pop music, we examine how this supposed boom turned out to be more of a marketing creation, which evaporated when digital streaming entered the picture.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'LuLaRich' reveals how MLMs mirror the American economy Oct 08, 2021

Sam interviews women's work and economic justice writer Meg Conley about the documentary series LuLaRich and how vulnerable people still get sucked into multi-level marketing schemes because their shape mirrors the American economy. Then, Harvard Ph.D. candidate and Mormon Studies Fellow at the University of Utah Janan Graham-Russell joins for a game of Who Said That?
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Janet Jackson's Legacy After 'Control' Oct 05, 2021

On the 35th anniversary of Janet Jackson's first No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit, we look back at Control, her career-defining album that changed the trajectory of pop music in the late '80s and '90s. In the second episode of a three-part series exploring crossover in pop music, we look at Jackson's musical and cultural legacy over the years. We also reconsider how Jackson was vilified after her Super Bowl XXXVIII appearance, and why. You can follow us on Twitter at @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Has immigration changed much under Biden? Oct 01, 2021

How much has really changed in U.S. immigration policy since President Biden came into office? After seeing graphic images of Haitian migrants being chased by law enforcement on horseback and a recent rejection of an immigration reform bill in Congress, The Atlantic staff writer Caitlin Dickerson breaks down the long history uniting Democratic and Republican administrations when it comes to enforcing immigration policy. She also plays Who Said That? with her friend and senior producer of NPR's Life Kit, Meghan Keane.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Lasting Legacy Of 'Soul Train' Sep 28, 2021

When Soul Train was first nationally syndicated in October 1971, there was nothing else like it on TV. It became an iconic Black music and dance show — a party every weekend that anyone could join from their living room. In the first episode of a three-part series exploring crossover in pop music, we break down the lasting influence of Soul Train on our culture with Hanif Abdurraqib, author of A Little Devil in America. We ask: Why has there never been another show like Soul Train since it went off the air? You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

COVID Forever? Plus, Broadway's Back Sep 24, 2021

Ever since the pandemic hit, life has been split into two timelines: before the pandemic and after the pandemic. But when will the "after" truly be after? Or will some version of the coronavirus be around... forever? Sam talks to The Atlantic staff writerKatherine Wu about continuing to live with some version of COVID-19. Plus, Sam talks to playwright Heidi Schreck and actress Cassie Beck, who are currently in rehearsals for the upcoming tour of the Broadway play What The Constitution Means to Me. As live theater returns, they talk about what the last 18 months have been like and how theater has changed for the long term.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Brandon Taylor Wrote 'Real Life' And 'Filthy Animals' For His Queer, Black Friends Sep 21, 2021

Author Brandon Taylor used to spend most of his hours studying nematodes under a microscope as a grad student. He wrote his first novel over a period of five weeks, mostly while in a lab. That book, Real Life, was released in 2020to much critical acclaim. He published his second book this year, a short story collection called Filthy Animals.
Taylor talks to Sam about his focus on the tensions of everyday relationships, writing from a Black and queer perspective and his intended audience of just a couple close friends.
This conversation is part of a collaboration between NPR and the Library of Congress National Book Festival. For more information about the festival, visit loc.gov/bookfest.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Machiavelli for Women'; Plus, 'What We Do in the Shadows' Sep 17, 2021

Sam is joined by NPR's The Indicator host Stacey Vanek Smith to talk about her new book, Machiavelli for Women and how women in the workplace are still falling behind. Plus, actor Harvey Guillén on the new season of the FX show What We Do in the Shadows and not waiting for people to be comfortable with his "brownness, queerness and roundness" to be comfortable in his own skin.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Yebba Sheds Old Beliefs With A New Album Sep 14, 2021

It was 2016, and Yebba's career was beginning to take off. But 2016 was also the year that something awful happened: Yebba's mother committed suicide. And that changed everything, too.
Now, after years of collaborating with artists the likes of Sam Smith, PJ Morton and Robert Glasper, Yebba has her own standalone album. It's called Dawn, a reference to her mother's name. In this chat, Yebba and Sam talk about the emotional toll it took to make Dawn, growing up in the church, and shedding old beliefs while making room for new ones.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

20 Years Of The War On Terror; Plus, Redemption For Mariah Carey's 'Glitter' Sep 10, 2021

Sam talks to Washington Post security and terrorism reporter Souad Mekhennet about what the war on terror has—and hasn't—achieved in the two decades since 9/11. Plus, for its 20^th anniversary, we look at the legacy of Mariah Carey's album Glitter with Texas Monthly senior editor Paula Mejia and Danielle Turchiano, senior features editor at Variety, to explore how culture and fandom have changed since the album's release.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Michaela Coel On 'Misfits' And 'I May Destroy You' Sep 07, 2021

Writer and actor Michaela Coel wrote, created and starred in HBO series I May Destroy You, which is up for nine Emmy nominations. Her new book, Misfits: A Personal Manifesto, is out this week. She talks to Sam about why she champions misfits like herself, I May Destroy You's basis on hertrauma, and how her spirituality has shifted over time.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Songs Of The Summer With 'Morning Becomes Eclectic' Sep 03, 2021

Sam talks to Novena Carmél and Anthony Valadez, hosts of KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic, about their end of summer song picks and the best albums of the year so far. They talk about how listening to music changed during the pandemic and why any floor can be a dance floor. Want to hear more of this year's best music? Check out all the songs from the episode in this playlist.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Code Switch': To Love And Not Forgive With Ashley C. Ford Aug 31, 2021

In this special episode from our friends at the Code Switch podcast, we feature author Ashley C. Ford. For much of her childhood, Ford's father was incarcerated, and her mother struggled to raise her while grappling with her own upended life plans. In her recent memoir, Somebody's Daughter, Ford explores how these formative conditions shaped her understanding of childhood, authority, forgiveness and freedom.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Do We Make Sense Of Afghanistan? Plus, 'Reservation Dogs' Aug 27, 2021

For the last 20 years, the U.S. has been wrapped up in a costly war in Afghanistan, initially in response to the attacks on September 11. But America's chaotic withdrawal this year, in just a short amount of time, has left the country back in Taliban control, with troops scrambling to get U.S. citizens and Afghan allies out before the deadline of August 31. So how do we make sense of it all? And what will be the impact on U.S. foreign policy going forward? Sam breaks it all down with Monika Evstatieva, senior producer on NPR's Investigations Unit, and Asma Khalid, NPR White House correspondent.
Plus, Sam talks about the FX on Hulu series Reservation Dogs with co-creator and executive producer Sterlin Harjo and writer Tommy Pico. They discuss the process of writing a show by and for Native people and why they centered on a coming-of-age story.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Jonathan Van Ness On 'Queer Eye,' Cats, And Overcoming Trauma Aug 24, 2021

Jonathan Van Ness stepped into the spotlight in 2018 as a walking, talking bundle of energy, optimism and positivity as the grooming expert on Queer Eye. Queer Eye is now in production for its sixth season, and Jonathan— along with the rest of the Fab 5— have been nominated for an Emmy for their work as hosts this year. In this conversation from 2019, Sam chats with JVN about his book, Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love, a memoir about his life journey and addressing his trauma along the way.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Maya Rudolph On SNL, Self-Acceptance, And Seeing Yourself On Screen Aug 20, 2021

Maya Rudolph has had a successful career, spanning decades as a Saturday Night Live cast member and well-loved actor and entertainer. She chats with Sam about her recent Emmy nominations, her approach to comedy, and the importance of having strong role models.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Kathryn Hahn On Birth, Politics And 'Private Life' Aug 16, 2021

Kathryn Hahn dazzled audiences in one of the biggest streaming hits of the year, WandaVision— and she just earned an Emmy nom for her performance. In this conversation with her from 2019, she and Sam talk about her film 'Private Life,' balancing politics in her work, and the nature of birth.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Hygiene Debates, Skipping Showers, And Climate Change, Oh My! Aug 13, 2021

#ShowerGate. Sam talks to Carl Zimring, professor of sustainability studies at Pratt Institute and author of Clean and White, about the online debate over celebrities showering habits and how it taps into a long history linking hygiene and race.
Then, we hear from Yessenia Funes, climate editor for Atmos Magazine, about this week's report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tracee Ellis Ross On Playing A 'Thriving, Not Surviving' Character On 'Black-ish' Aug 10, 2021

Tracee Ellis Ross won a Golden Globe in 2017 for her role on ABC's Black-ish. She's also been nominated five times for that role at the Emmys. In this chat from July 2020, she and Sam discuss her Black-ish role, sharing her singing from The High Note with mom Diana Ross, and portraying Black joy on screen.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's Your Monoculture Moment: The Olympics Or Bennifer 2.0? Aug 06, 2021

Sam is joined by LA Times television editor Matt Brennan to understand why ratings for this year's Olympics are not just dismal, but symbolic of changes in our culture. Then, culture writers Hunter Harris and Alessa Dominguez join the show to talk all things Bennifer.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Prince's Intimate Moments Aug 03, 2021

Prince's posthumous album, Welcome 2 America, came out last weekend. In honor of the release, Sam revisits his 2020 conversation with Prince's photographer, Randee St. Nicholas. She shares intimate stories about the legendary artist: from spontaneous photo shoots in burned out buildings to late nights after sold-out concerts.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Vaccine Disinformation For Hire; Plus, Hannah Waddingham Of 'Ted Lasso' Jul 30, 2021

Disinformation about COVID-19 vaccines abounds on social media, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Sam talks to Max Fisher, international reporter for the New York Times, about "disinformation for hire" and what social media platforms are doing to combat it. Plus, Sam talks to actress Hannah Waddingham, one of the stars of Ted Lasso. They're also joined by fellow cast member Jeremy Swift to play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Emilia Clarke On Mothers Of Madness And Dragons Jul 27, 2021

The "Mother of Dragons" is out with a new comic book, Mother of Madness. Actress Emilia Clarke talks with guest host Ayesha Rascoe about superpowers in real life and fantasy, her career-launching role in Game of Thrones and how Hollywood has changed since her first season as Daenerys.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Joy Of Black Hair; Plus, What's In The Biden Spending Plans? Jul 23, 2021

The Black Hair Experience is a pop-up visual exhibit dedicated to the beauty, history and nostalgia of Black hair. Guest host Ayesha Rascoe takes a trip there and chats with its co-founder, Alisha Brooks. Then, Ayesha is joined by NPR's Susan Davis and Asma Khalid about the two huge economic priorities for the Biden administration.
— Read Ayesha's essay: "The Black Hair Experience Is About The Joy Of Black Hair — Including My Own"
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Space Jam 2' Star Sonequa Martin-Green Jul 20, 2021

Actress Sonequa Martin-Green has made a career of otherworldly roles. She survived a zombie apocalypse in The Walking Dead, she explores space — the final frontier — in Star Trek: Discovery, and she's the wife of NBA star LeBron James in Space Jam: A New Legacy. She talks to guest host Ayesha Rascoe about her career, her hair and identity, and why she felt called to speak up about her internalized racism after the murder of George Floyd.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why Workers Are Quitting; Plus The Comfort Of Horror Movies Jul 16, 2021

Americans are quitting their jobs in record numbers. Guest host Ayesha Rascoe brings on CBS MoneyWatch editor Irina Ivanova to break down some of the reasons why. Then, The New Republic staff writer Jo Livingstone joins Ayesha to discuss the current state of horror movies and why nothing's better than a good scare. Author and Big Mood, Little Moodpodcast host Daniel Lavery joins them to play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Trump's America And Why 'The Cruelty Is The Point' Jul 13, 2021

The Cruelty Is The Point: The Past, Present, and Future of Trump's America, is journalist Adam Serwer's new book, based on a popular essay he wrote for The Atlantic. Serwer talks with guest host Ayesha Rascoe and lays out the ways in which Donald Trump came to power, the historical roots of his vision of law and order, and how he managed to build a loyal political following on the basis of cruelty.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Weight On Black Women In Sports; Plus, 'We Are Lady Parts' Jul 09, 2021

With Sha'Carri Richardson's recent disqualification, and the controversy surrounding the banning of natural hair swimming caps, there's a lot to talk about the treatment of Black women in the Olympics and across the sports world. Guest host Ayesha Rascoe brings on ESPN producer and podcast host Terrika Foster-Brasby and The Athletic's Kavitha A. Davidson to discuss. Then, she talks to We Are Lady Parts creator Nida Manzoor about the intersection of art, faith and representation.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tiffany Haddish Stays Busy: 'I Want to See Our Stories' Jul 06, 2021

Tiffany Haddish has had a busy year. From starring in prank film Bad Trip, to hosting Kids Say the Darndest Things, to voicing a self-confident toucan in animated series Tuca & Bertie, it seems like she's everywhere. Sam talks to Tiffany about her many projects, her hopes and dreams for the entertainment industry, and she tells a wild story about Nicolas Cage.
— Watch the full extended version of this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YMESf6UUQx8
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pop Culture Happy Hour: F9 Is Somehow Faster And Furious-er Jul 04, 2021

Sam sits in the guest seat at Pop Culture Happy Hour to discuss the glue that holds this nation together — The Fast and the Furious franchise. Alongside NPR White House correspondent Ayesha Rascoe, as well as PCHH hosts Linda Holmes and Aisha Harris, the group talks about the legacy of the decades-spanning series, why we love to hate it, and how action films of this caliber could be considered "hetero camp."
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Trump's Bad Business Comes Back To Bite Jul 02, 2021

This week, the Trump Organization and its Chief Financial Officer were charged with fraud and tax related crimes by the Manhattan District Attorney as a result of a years-long investigation. In light of these new charges, Sam revisits his conversation from last fall with Andrea Bernstein, co-host of the WNYC & ProPublica podcast Trump, Inc. They talk about Trump's business operations, debts, and how the biggest lesson from both is "we pay, he wins."
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Riley Keough On 'Zola' And Finding Empathy For Anti-Heroes Jun 29, 2021

Sam interviews Riley Keough, one of the stars of Zola— a new movie adapted from a viral 148-tweet thread story full of sex work, guns and plot twists. They talk about how Riley prepared her character's "blaccent," why she tends to play unlikeable characters, and how she became a death doula.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Culture Wars Then and Now; Plus, The Creators of 'Hacks' Jun 25, 2021

The furor over critical race theory fits into a longer history of culture wars in schools. Sam talks to Adam Laats, a professor of history and education at Binghamton University, about what the past can teach us about today's fight. Plus, Sam talks to Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky, writers and creators of the HBO Max series Hacks. They discuss what inspired them to write the show, as well as the overlooked legacies of many trailblazing women comedians. They also play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Where We Come From': Priya And Ritu Krishna On Indian Cooking And Assimilation Jun 22, 2021

Where do you come from? It's a question that immigrant communities of color get asked constantly. But the answer is often not simply about a place on a map. It can be tied to identity, immigration, career, family... and even food. In this episode from NPR's audio and video series Where We Come From, New York Times food writer Priya Krishna tackles this question with her mother, Ritu. They explore assimilation through food and why dal represents comfort for their family.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

ACT UP: A History Of AIDS/HIV Activism Jun 18, 2021

Forty years ago this month, the CDC reported on patients with HIV/AIDS in the United States for the very first time. The disease was understudied, under-reported and deeply stigmatized. ACT UP united a diverse, non-partisan group of individuals committed to direct action to end the AIDS crisis. In her new book, Let The Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987-1993, Sarah Schulman draws from nearly 200 interviews with ACT UP members to document the movement's history and explore how the group's activism transformed the way the media, the government, corporations and medical professionals talked about AIDS and provided treatment. She and Sam discuss this transformation and its relevance to social movements today.
We've love your feedback! If you have a few minutes, please complete this survey: npr.org/PodcastSurvey
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Fresh Air': Actor John Boyega On Hollywood, Police And 'Star Wars' Jun 15, 2021

Sam sits in the Fresh Air host chair to talk to actor John Boyega. Since finishing his star-making role in the Star Wars franchise in 2019 and after the protests that followed the murder of George Floyd last year, Boyega has been outspoken about his treatment as a Black actor in Hollywood, and in the Star Wars franchise itself. He talked to Sam about why he was ready to talk about the "elephant in the room" that is racism in Hollywood and what he's doing to change things.
We've love your feedback! If you have a few minutes, please complete this survey: npr.org/PodcastSurvey
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's This Arizona Recount About? Plus, Summer Movie Picks Jun 11, 2021

We've witnessed plenty of historic moments with Joe Biden as president: widespread COVID-19 vaccinations, the reunion of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, Mare of Easttown. But Arizona Republicans are attempting to prove otherwise with an unprecedented vote recount of the 2020 election. Sam talks to Jessica Huseman, editorial director at Votebeat, about the ongoing election audit in Arizona and what it means for the future of elections and voting rights. Plus, Sam talks about summer movies to look forward to with NPR's Aisha Harris and Bob Mondello.
We've love your feedback! If you have a few minutes, please complete this survey: npr.org/PodcastSurvey
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Zakiya Dalila Harris And 'The Other Black Girl' Jun 08, 2021

Zakiya Dalila Harris was working as an editorial assistant at a New York publisher when she ran into another Black woman for the first time on her office floor. That's when she got the idea for her book, The Other Black Girl. What's it like when you're used to being the only one, but now there's another one like you? And what if things get weird? Like, really weird. Sam and Zakiya talk about how her book subverts the office drama and what lessons it has for a still very white publishing industry.
We've love your feedback! If you have a few minutes, please complete this survey: npr.org/PodcastSurvey
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Kink, Cops And Corporations At Pride? Plus, Natalie Morales On 'Plan B' Jun 04, 2021

When Pride comes around every June, the same arguments start up again— should there be kink, cops and corporations at Pride? And who is Pride for? Sam talks to writer and author Roxane Gay about why the queer community has the same conversations year after year and what they mean for what Pride is today. Plus, actress and filmmaker Natalie Morales on directing the new teen buddy comedy, "Plan B."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Malcolm Gladwell And 'Talking To Strangers' Jun 01, 2021

Sam revisits his chat with best-selling author Malcolm Gladwell about his book, Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know About the People We Don't Know. The book explores examples such as the arrest of Sandra Bland and the Stanford rape case as to why interactions with strangers often go so wrong. This episode was taped in front of a live studio audience at The George Washington University's Lisner Auditorium in September 2019.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Hot Book Summer May 28, 2021

It's almost summer, and whether you're at a beach, at a park, or at home, it's a great time to get lost in a book. Sam is joined by Barrie Hardymon, senior editor of NPR's Weekend Edition, and Traci Thomas, host of the podcast The Stacks. They give advice on how to get back into the habit of reading and recommend a few great summer reads: Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi, How the Word Is Passed by Clint Smith, Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins and Filthy Animals by Brandon Taylor. They also play a special edition of "Who Said That?"
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Real Justices Of SCOTUS May 25, 2021

Sam previews this summer's Supreme Court rulings with Slate's Mark Joseph Stern and why some of those cases could potentially have big repercussions on daily life. They also discuss the future of the Court, including its decision to take up two of the most controversial issues of today — abortion and gun rights — and why the drama between justices can sometimes equate to a Real Housewives–style argument over dinner (with table flip).
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Labor Market Mysteries; Plus, Signs Of Life May 21, 2021

The U.S. unemployment rate is still high... so why are we in a labor shortage? Sam chats with Stacey Vanek Smith, host of NPR's The Indicator, and Cardiff Garcia, former co-host of The Indicator, about the American job market and why businesses are having such a hard time hiring. Then, as vaccines have become more widely available and pandemic restrictions lift across the country, people are wandering back out into the world, having experiences they haven't had in over a year. We drop in on a few of these: a dance party, a first date, a game with friends — the small pleasures folks have missed that now feel monumental.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Let's Talk About Hard Things' With Help From Anna Sale May 18, 2021

How do you bring up something that might be easier left unsaid? Anna Sale, host and creator of WNYC's Death, Sex & Money podcast, has answers in her new book, Let's Talk About Hard Things. She chats with Sam about how to talk to family, why we need to start having different conversations about money, and what it means to actually listen.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

After Defunding The Police; Plus, Michelle Buteau On 'The Circle' May 14, 2021

What does defunding the police really look like? Sam talks to Austin City Council Member Greg Casar about how decreasing the city's police budget has worked— and what they aren't getting quite right yet. Then, Sam talks to KUT reporter Audrey McGlinchy about how Texas, a Republican-led state, has responded and what that could mean for other cities trying to follow in the footsteps of Austin. Plus, Sam talks to actress and comedian Michelle Buteau about hosting the Netflix reality competition show The Circle and how she feels about being cast as the sassy best friend.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Is Biden The Next FDR? or LBJ? May 11, 2021

How transformative are President Biden's economic and infrastructure proposals? Depends on what gets passed. The comparisons to FDR and LBJ miss the vastly different political landscapes those presidents faced. Sam talks with presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin about how this moment compares to those past presidents' efforts at once in a generation legislation. You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Housing Boom For Whom? Plus, 'Ziwe' Premieres May 07, 2021

The housing market is booming— but who actually benefits? Sam talks to Jerusalem Demsas, politics and policy fellow for Vox, about what so many are getting wrong about housing. Plus, Sam revisits his 2020 conversation with Ziwe Fumudoh, whose comedy variety show Ziwe premieres on Showtime on May 9. Then, in honor of NPR's 50th anniversary, Sam plays "Who Said That?" with All Things Considered hosts Audie Cornish and Ari Shapiro.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Mj Rodriguez On 'Pose' And Perseverance May 04, 2021

As the groundbreaking series Pose comes to a close in its third and final season, Sam talks to Mj Rodriguez about the end of her role as Blanca, the loving and lovable house mother at the center of the show. They also chat about the start of her career as Angel in Rent, channeling grief into her character, and LGBTQIA+ perseverance.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

India And The Unequal Distribution Of Vaccines; Plus, 'Invisibilia' Returns Apr 30, 2021

Even as vaccine access expands in the the US, the pandemic is far from over globally. Sam talks to Aarti Singh, a resident of New Delhi, about what it's been like living there as India's COVID-19 cases skyrocket. Then, Sam talks to public health activist Achal Prabhala about why rich and poor countries have unequal access to vaccines. Plus, Sam chats with Invisibilia host Kia Miakka Natisse about the new season of the show and her episode on how a reparations effort in Vermont shed light on how people talk about money and racial justice.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Patti Harrison Takes The Lead In 'Together Together' Apr 27, 2021

Patti Harrison is known for bringing her absurd, caustic, yet charming comedy to supporting roles on shows like Search Party, Broad City and Shrill. But now she's in a starring role in the romantic comedy Together Together. In it, Harrison plays a young single woman who agrees to be a gestational surrogate for a single man in his 40s, played by Ed Helms. Sam talks to Patti about what it was like to play a role different from everything she's done before, why Together Together is even billed as a rom-com, and the quandary of representation as a trans woman.
— Watch Sam's extended interview with Patti Harrison: https://youtube.com/npr
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The "Must-See TV" Of Black Trauma, Plus Ashley Nicole Black On Making Black Joy Apr 23, 2021

Sam chats with NPR's TV critic Eric Deggans about constant images of Black pain in news and in entertainment. Then, he turns to comedian Ashley Nicole Black to talk about the new season of "A Black Lady Sketch Show" and Black joy.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Warped Reality of Eric André's 'Bad Trip' Apr 20, 2021

Sam talks to actor and comedian Eric André about the evolution of the prank genre with his Netflix hidden-camera comedy Bad Trip. They chat about the complications of making a prank show while Black, who André would never prank, and why everyone could use a little absurdism to warp their realities.
— Watch the full extended version of this interview on YouTube: youtu.be/n8KamK-9hxY
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The 'Thin Blue Line' In Minnesota, Plus 'Tell Them, I Am' Apr 16, 2021

What's it like to cover the Derek Chauvin trial against the backdrop of continued police violence? Guest host Ari Shapiro talks to Minnesota activist and journalist O'nika Nicole Craven. Then, he talks to Maurice Chammah, staff writer at The Marshall Project, about the origins and evolving symbolism of the thin blue line. Plus, Misha Euceph on the new season of her podcast Tell Them, I Am, and the many ways that Muslims find glimpses of God. Then, Mary Knauf, executive producer of Tell Them, I Am, joins Ari and Misha to play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bowen Yang's Rules of Culture Apr 13, 2021

Bowen Yang often plays delightfully weird characters on SNL. But recently he appeared as himself on the show to address the uptick of Asian American violence in the U.S. Sam revisits his conversation from last fall with the comedian, who discusses becoming the first Chinese American cast member on Saturday Night Live, what it was like to do the show during a pandemic, and why Adele Dazeem is the number one moment in the history of culture.
— Watch Sam's extended interview with Bowen: https://youtu.be/1KMRAhxeDpA
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's The Strategy? Corporate Activism And Anti-Trans Bills Apr 09, 2021

Corporations have spoken out against the new restrictive voting law in Georgia, but to what end? Sam talks to Slate writer Dahlia Lithwick about whether that tactic actually effects change—and whether it's just a performance. Plus, Sam talks to author and historian Jules Gill-Peterson about the historic flood of anti-trans bills in state legislatures and how these bills echo anti-gay rhetoric of the past. Then, friends of the show Saeed Jones and Zach Stafford join Sam to play Who Said That.
— Read Dahlia Lithwick's Slate article, "The Problem with Boycotting Georgia"
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Human Cost of Family Separation Apr 06, 2021

It's been a few years now since President Trump adopted (and then later reversed) his administration's zero-tolerance policy that separated parents and children at the U.S.-Mexico border. But what's happened to those families since? And what is President Biden doing now to help? Sam talks to Aura Bogado, senior investigative reporter and producer at Reveal, about how family separation, which has reaches back to the Obama administration, has affected a system that Aura says is not quite broken... but is unjust.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Is 'Diversity And Inclusion' Far From Its Roots? And What's An NFT? Apr 02, 2021

Sam talks to Kim Tran, an anti-racist author and consultant, about her article in Harper's Bazaar on how the diversity, equity and inclusion industry has strayed from its movement roots. Plus, what's an NFT? And why are people buying them? And what are they again? Sam breaks it all down with tech reporters Bobby Allyn and Erin Griffith to explain the phenomenon of the non-fungible token — and whether it can last.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Hanif Abdurraqib's Rabbit Holes Into Great Black Performance Mar 30, 2021

Hanif Abdurraqib's latest book is A Little Devil in America: Notes in Praise of Black Performance. In it, Abdurraqib researches the impact of Black performers on American culture throughout the past several hundred years, touching on everything from minstrel shows to Soul Train, the concept of the "Magical Negro," and playing spades. Sam talks to Abdurraqib about lesser-known performers like Ellen Armstrong, the first Black woman magician, and they revisit the mythology of household names like Whitney Houston. Plus, they share aspects of Black performance they've missed most in this pandemic year.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Gun Violence Never Went Away, Plus The Overlooked Talent Of Asian Actors Mar 26, 2021

It might have seemed like mass shootings were down last year, but 2020 was actually one of the deadliest years for gun violence in decades. Sam talks to Abené Clayton, reporter for The Guardian, about why some shootings get more coverage than others. Plus, Sam talks to Shirley Li, staff writer at The Atlantic, about Minari and the way stereotypes inform how white audiences view the performances of Asian actors. Then, Hannah Giorgis, also of The Atlantic, joins Sam and Shirley to play Who Said That.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Fight To Transform Criminal Justice Mar 23, 2021

There are few paths to freedom for people serving life sentences in prison on federal drug charges. Guest host Ayesha Rascoe talks with Brittany K. Barnett, lawyer, entrepreneur and author of A Knock at Midnight: A Story of Hope, Justice, and Freedom,about her role in the fight to free incarcerated people from these sentences. They talk about high profile clemencies, how life sentences are handed down even without physical evidence of drugs, and the wealth of Black love.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A History Of Anti-Asian Racism, Plus 'Married At First Sight' Mar 19, 2021

In the wake of Tuesday's mass shooting in Atlanta, guest host Ayesha Rascoe talks to critical race theorist and professor Jennifer Ho about the history behind anti-Asian racism and what it means to be an Asian woman in America. Then, Ayesha chats about her latest obsession, the reality dating show Married at First Sight, with fellow devotees Delece Smith-Barrow, education editor at Politico, and Brittany Luse, former co-host and executive producer of The Nod.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Can't Let It Go Mar 16, 2021

A special episode from our friends at NPR's Planet Money: A show all about the things we're obsessed with. Sam joins Planet Money co-host Karen Duffin to dig into obsessions including the Beyoncé of economics, an actual musician, Lubalin, finding deep inspiration in shallow web posts, and curried chicken. Also, we stage an intervention, and, we bring you Planet Money's first ever meditation to help you breathe deeply and let go. Just let it go. You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Our Pandemic Year Mar 12, 2021

We take stock of a year that challenged us emotionally, culturally and politically. Sam talks to Hira Deol, a former contestant on Big Brother Canada, about what it was like to learn about the pandemic while sequestered away from the outside world. Plus, Sam chats with culture writer Anne Helen Petersen about the gradual return to our "normal" lives — and just how messy it's going to be.
— Read the poem from this episode: "Small Kindnesses" by Danusha Laméris
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Sohla El-Waylly on Race, Food and 'Bon Appétit' Mar 09, 2021

Sohla El-Waylly called out her previous employer, Bon Appétit, during the magazine's racial reckoning last summer and resigned. The chef and food star is now a columnist at Food52 and star of the YouTube series Off-Script with Sohla. She and Sam talk about racism in the food media industry (and everywhere else), The Cheesecake Factory, and certain kinds of mushrooms.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pop Culture Happy Hour: L'Amour For 'Lupin' Mar 08, 2021

Sam joins the Pop Culture Happy Hourteam to talk about the French Netflix series Lupin with culture writer Bedatri D. Choudhury and co-hosts Aisha Harris and Glen Weldon. They discuss the twisty caper's exciting (if implausible) plot, dissect its take on race and class, and gush over Omar Sy's performance.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Voting Rights Under Threat, Plus Do We Still Need Sports? Mar 05, 2021

A new case before the U.S. Supreme Court could jeopardize the power of the Voting Rights Act. Sam talks to Mark Joseph Stern, staff writer for Slate, about what's at stake and how so much of the current debate goes back to Reconstruction. Sam also chats with contributing writer for The Atlantic and podcaster Jemele Hill about how tv viewership across almost all sports has tanked during the pandemic.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Author Torrey Peters On Seeing Through A Trans Lens Mar 02, 2021

Torrey Peters' new book Detransition, Baby, is about navigating identity, commitment, parenthood and divorce. The three main characters, a pregnant cis woman, her partner who is a detransitioned man, and his ex, a trans woman, are all considering how they might come together to create a family. Sam talks to Torrey about writing for trans readers, creating flawed characters and how the COVID-19 pandemic can be viewed through a trans lens.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A Weird Awards Season, Plus "Anything for Selena" Feb 26, 2021

What's an awards season when many theaters are still closed and it's harder to track which movies and shows deserve buzz? Louis Virtel and Ira Madison III, co-hosts of Keep Itchat with Sam about who's being selected and who's being overlooked, and whether the pandemic further exposes awards' irrelevance or not. Plus, Sam talks with Maria Garcia about her podcast, Anything for Selena, and why honoring Selena is political.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Octavia Butler: Visionary Fiction‬ Feb 23, 2021

A special episode from our friends at NPR's history podcast Throughline: Octavia Butler's alternate realities and 'speculative fiction' reveal striking, and often devastating parallels to the world we live in today. She was a deep observer of the human condition, perplexed and inspired by our propensity towards self-destruction. But along with her warning is her message of hope - a hope conjured by centuries of survival and persistence. For every society that perishes in her books comes a story of rebuilding, of repair.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Your Vaccine Questions, Answered Feb 19, 2021

Will the vaccine make me feel sick? Is it OK if I see grandma if she's vaccinated but I'm not? And what's the deal with double masking? Listeners had questions about the coronavirus and vaccines, Sam and NPR Short Wave host Maddie Sofia have answers. Sam also talks to his Aunt Betty about her experience getting her COVID-19 vaccination. Then, the view on coming out to the other side of the pandemic with health journalist Bridie Witton in New Zealand.
— Learn more about masks: A User's Guide To Masks: What's Best At Protecting Others (And Yourself)
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The (Not So?) Wonderful World of Disney Feb 16, 2021

Sam talks to filmmaker and activist Abigail Disney, daughter of Roy E. Disney, about her views on inequality in the U.S., corporate greed and why, despite her last name, she's become one of the more vocal and prominent critics of The Walt Disney empire.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Union Fight At Amazon, Plus 'Your Korean Dad' Feb 12, 2021

An Amazon fulfillment center in Bessemer, Alabama, has become ground zero in a battle that could change Amazon as we know it. Sam chats with a worker about his experience, and labor reporter and organizer Kim Kelly talks about what the fight for unionization in Amazon's warehouses means for the future of workers' rights. Plus, Sam talks to Nick Cho, known as Your Korean Dad on TikTok, about becoming the internet's favorite dad.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Desus And Mero On Politics, Fame And Life In The Pandemic Feb 09, 2021

Desus Nice and The Kid Mero went from calling up "anyone in their phone book" in the early days of their podcast Bodega Boys, to booking big names in politics like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and President Barack Obama on Desus & Mero, their late-night show airing on Showtime. Covering a mix of pop culture, politics, headlines and internet hijinks, Desus and Mero talk to Sam about keeping their show's vibe while working from home, how their view of politics has evolved as their platform has grown and the strange ways that life has changed now that these Bronx natives are famous.
You can follow 'It's Been a Minute' on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Snap Judgment': Money Truck Feb 08, 2021

What would you do if a truck full of money flung its doors open right in front of you? Our friends at the Snap Judgment podcast tell six stories that will make you question your own conscience.
You can follow 'It's Been a Minute' on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Lasting Power Of Whitney Houston's National Anthem Feb 05, 2021

Why does Whitney Houston's 1991 Super Bowl national anthem still resonate 30 years later? Sam chats with author and Black Girl Songbook hostDanyel Smith about that moment of Black history and what it says about race, patriotism and pop culture.
You can follow 'It's Been a Minute' on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Fresh Air': Angela Bassett On Drama, Music And 'Soul' Feb 02, 2021

Sam sits in the Fresh Air host chair to chat with actor Angela Bassett. She talks about her most recent film, Disney and Pixar's Soul, what drew her to acting as a young person growing up in Florida, whether Hollywood has changed for Black creatives and which of her past roles define her as a performer.
You can follow 'It's Been a Minute' on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Immigration Under Biden, Plus Preet Bharara 'Doing Justice' Jan 29, 2021

What does immigration look like under President Biden? Sam talks to Caitlin Dickerson, staff writer at The Atlantic, about the likelihood Biden can push through policies that other administrations from both parties tried and failed to do. Plus, Sam chats with former federal prosecutor Preet Bharara about his new podcast, Doing Justice, and how the nation's ideas about rules and law have changed in the past few years.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Future Of Fashion Jan 26, 2021

Hello, sweatpants. With scaled-down Fashion Weeks, department stores hurting, and more and more people opting for loungewear rather than workplace attire... where does that leave the fashion business in 2021? Sam talks to Robin Givhan, senior critic-at-large at The Washington Post, about how the very harsh reality of the pandemic has shifted an industry largely built on fantasy.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Lessons from 9/11 for Today's Extremism; Plus 'Crazy Stories About Racism' Jan 22, 2021

How will the response to far-right extremism compare to the response after 9/11? Sam talks to Hannah Allam, NPR national security correspondent, about the security and civil liberties debate over taking a "war on terror" mindset to today's far-right threat. Also, Sam chats with sisters Amber Ruffin and Lacey Lamar, co-authors of the book You'll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey, about their inexplicable, sometimes hilarious, but always horrifying stories of everyday racism.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

After Trump, What's Next For Fox News? Jan 19, 2021

What will happen to Fox News after President Trump leaves office? Fox News is facing Trump's anger for not being sufficiently "loyal," and it's seeing new competition as viewers head to conservative networks like Newsmax and One America News Network. NPR media correspondent David Folkenflik and Sam discuss how the feuds of cable news fuel our politics and how the whole news industry adapts to life after Trump.
Follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's Next For Social Media After Trump? Plus The Lie Of 'Laziness' Jan 15, 2021

A lot of the pro-Trump extremism behind the attack on the Capitol flourished online. Sam talks to Bobby Allyn and Shannon Bond, who both cover tech for NPR, about social platforms and the actions they've taken since the siege, the implications for free speech and whether the internet could fundamentally change. Also, Sam talks to Devon Price, author of the book Laziness Does Not Exist, about the lie of laziness and what it means for productivity.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

We've Had Insurrections Before Jan 12, 2021

History has a way of repeating itself. Last week's storming of the U.S. Capitol has parallels to an incident dating back to 1874, when a paramilitary force of ex-Confederates seized control of the Louisiana state house. Their goal? To depose a governor who won the election and replace him with his opponent. Sam revisits this history with Jamelle Bouie, columnist at The New York Times. They explore why the path toward political unity in our time might actually be through division.
Follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Capitol, Mobbed Jan 08, 2021

With the pro-Trump insurrection at the U.S. Capitol this week, at the same time that Congress was set to certify the presidential election results, 2021 is off to a rocky start. Sam checks in with NPR congressional correspondent Susan Davis and NPR White House correspondent Ayesha Rascoe on the Capitol breach and the week in politics.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why 'Better Things' Pamela Adlon Is Everyone's Mother Jan 05, 2021

Sam revisits his conversation from 2020 with actress Pamela Adlon. Adlon is the writer, star, director and co-creator of the acclaimed comedy-drama Better Things on FX. The series follows Adlon's character, Sam, as a divorced actress, raising three kids in Los Angeles - all things that mirror Adlon's real life. Sam talks to Adlon about her career, seeing your parents as real-life people, and the awful, crazy, beautiful experience of being a parent yourself.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Claudia Rankine On The Uneasy Conversations Between 'Just Us' Jan 01, 2021

After a year that offered many moments of reflection—from the coronavirus pandemic, to protests for racial justice, to the long election season—acclaimed poet Claudia Rankine's latest book offers a framework to process it all. That book is called Just Us: An American Conversation, and in this episode, we revisit her chat with NPR's Audie Cornish. In the book, Rankine has conversations about race with friends and strangers—and learns about herself in the process.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Fresh Air': Aaron Sorkin on 'The Trial of the Chicago 7' Dec 29, 2020

Sam sits in the Fresh Airhost chair to talk with writer and director Aaron Sorkin. His latest film The Trial of the Chicago 7 covers the events at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago when several prominent anti-war activists were accused of conspiring to start a riot.
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Best — And Worst — Of Christmas Culture Dec 25, 2020

Sam shares holiday recommendations with Audie Cornish, co-host of All Things Consideredand Consider This, and Bob Mondello, NPR's film critic. They discuss not only their holiday favorites, but also the holiday things they hate. And yes, they'll discuss Love Actually.
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Best Things That Happened to You Dec 22, 2020

This year has been hard for pretty much everyone, but that still hasn't stopped people from getting married, having babies, starting new jobs, and telling us all about those milestones and celebrations in voice memos on our show.
So in the spirit of the season, we picked a few of our favorite 'Best Things' from 2020 and called up the people who sent them: a listener who found the courage to make a new friend, a son who got the chance to reunite with his mom, and a woman who decided to donate her kidney... to a complete stranger.
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Year in Celebrity Culture with 'Who? Weekly' Dec 18, 2020

Without movies or TV shows to shoot or music to record, celebrities were restless in 2020 and eager to connect with a public that, at least for a while, couldn't care less about them. Sam wraps up the year in celebrity culture with Lindsey Weber and Bobby Finger, co-hosts of the podcast Who? Weekly, and breaks down how a pandemic changed our relationship with the rich and the famous. Stuck in quarantine, it turns out that stars really are just like us... and often a little worse.
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'I Can't Wait To Hate Tour Again': Phoebe Bridgers On Her Breakout Year Dec 15, 2020

Songwriter Phoebe Bridgers has had a big year, but it's also been bittersweet. With four Grammy nominations for work on her acclaimed 2020 album Punisher, Bridgers, like most touring musicians, has been stuck at home. She talks to Sam about her love/hate relationship with touring, how she aims for the universal in the specificity of her lyrics, and her hopes for music—and everyone—in 2021... or whenever the pandemic ends.
Watch the extended video version of this interview: https://youtu.be/nTmW6jr_hd0
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Internet Culture Of Quarantine, Plus Selena's Legacy Dec 11, 2020

Coronavirus has transformed pop culture and placed its creation in the hands of anyone who has social media. Sam chats with E. Alex Jung, a writer at New York Magazine, about pop culture's shift this year to the internet. Then, Sam talks to Alex Zaragoza, senior staff writer for culture at Vice, about her beef with the new Netflix series Selena: The Series and the exploitation of Selena.
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pod Fatigue: How Coronavirus Lockdown Has Tested Friendships Dec 08, 2020

Are you sick of the friends and family you've been stuck with? Sam teams up with Anna Sale, host of the WNYC podcast Death, Sex & Money, to explore how our pandemic 'pods' are being tested by the coronavirus. In this episode, Sam digs into friendships under strain. Then, head on over to the Death, Sex & Money podcast feed for Anna's look at how two people stuck apart during the pandemic have fallen in love.
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Life in the Time of Coronavirus Dec 04, 2020

"What has this pandemic been like for you?"
When we put that question to people, the answers we got depended a lot on where they were in life — if they were in school, if they had a job, if they had lost a loved one, if they were vulnerable to the virus. So in this special episode of It's Been a Minute, we'll hear from people of all ages, from all over the country — and world — about how their lives, from young to old, have changed forever.
Wanna show your love for 'It's Been a Minute'? Support your local NPR station: donate.npr.org/sam
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Cathy Park Hong's Asian American Reckoning Dec 01, 2020

Cathy Park Hong talks with Sam about her book Minor Feelings: An Asian American Reckoning. She discusses how watching comedian Richard Pryor influenced her to write honestly about Asian American identity, and how her Korean parents' experience of immigration has made their understanding of race different from her own. Hong is known globally for her award-winning poetry. She also serves as poetry editor for The New Republic and is a professor at Rutgers University–Newark.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

James McBride On Hope, Community And 'A Place Of Miracles' Nov 27, 2020

For the holiday, Sam revisits his conversation with award-winning author James McBride. McBride's latest book Deacon King Kong tells the story of how one man's decision brings together the different racial communities of 1960s Brooklyn to solve a larger issue. Sam chats with McBride as he shares his thoughts on the hope he has for communities, the parallels he sees to the world we're living in today, and why he's still optimistic, despite protests and a pandemic.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting Life Kit: How To Have Better Conversations Nov 24, 2020

With the holidays coming, we're all trying to figure out how to celebrate with loved ones from a distance. When all we have to connect this year are phone calls and video chats, how do we make the most out of our conversations? In this episode from NPR's Life Kit Sam gets advice from the owner of a hair salon, whose job has taught her to be a good conversationalist. Then, Sam talks to journalist and professional speaker Celeste Headlee. Celeste, who gave a TED talk on this topic, shares her guidance on how to have more meaningful conversations.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Georgia's Senate Runoffs, Plus W. Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu Talk Politics Nov 20, 2020

Georgia's Senate runoffs have become national races as control of the Senate depends on who wins. Sam asks Tia Mitchell, Washington correspondent for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, if Georgia voters are looking at the runoffs the way the rest of the country is. Then, Sam chats with comedians W. Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu, hosts of the podcast "Politically Re-Active", about how the Left is processing the results of the 2020 election.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why Donald Trump Is The Houdini Of Bad Business Nov 17, 2020

What's next for President Trump once he leaves the White House? And what's next for his business? And what's he being investigated for again? And by whom?
We take a step back and break it all down with Andrea Bernstein, co-host of the WNYC & ProPublica podcast Trump, Inc., about Trump's finances, his mounting debt and how, after decades of bad business, he has always managed to find a way out.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Louder Than A Riot: 'The Badder, The Better: Bobby Shmurda (Pt 1)' Nov 16, 2020

The rapper Bobby Shmurda had a big viral hit in 2014, and it looked like he was going to be a star. But just months later, Bobby and his friends were arrested and charged in connection with a murder and several other shootings. Our friends at NPR Music podcast Louder Than A Riot trace the interconnected rise of hip-hop and mass incarceration, and they take a look at Bobby's story in this episode.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Biden's Coronavirus Response, Plus Comedian Matt Rogers Nov 13, 2020

What could a new president mean for the coronavirus pandemic? Sam talks to Ed Yong, staff writer at The Atlantic, about President-elect Joe Biden's coronavirus task force and how much the federal government can do to change the course of the pandemic. Then, Sam chats with comedian Matt Rogers, whose projects this year include competition show Haute Dog on HBO Max, Quibi's Gayme Show and the podcast Las Culturistas (which he hosts with SNL's Bowen Yang). They talk about pop culture and what's giving them joy in 2020.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

White Supremacy And Its Online Reach Nov 10, 2020

Talia Lavin went undercover in white supremacist online communities, creating fake personas that would gain her access to the dark reaches of the internet normally off-limits to her, a Jewish woman. That research laid the groundwork for her book, Culture Warlords: My Journey Into the Dark Web of White Supremacy. Lavin talks to Sam about what it was like to infiltrate those online spaces, what she learned, and how white supremacy cannot exist without anti-Semitism.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's Next For Biden And Democrats? Nov 06, 2020

Joe Biden appears to be inching closer to a victory, but there wasn't a blowout for Democrats this election. Sam talks to New York Times national political reporter Astead Herndon about what we know, what we thought we knew, and what the results could mean for the left moving forward.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's Next For Trump And Republicans? Nov 04, 2020

With the election still too close to call, The Atlanticreporter McKay Coppins joins Sam with the latest on what we know about the results, what they mean for President Trump, and how much Trumpism will live on in the Republican Party.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How To Take Care Of Yourself This Election Season Nov 03, 2020

It's Election Day, but instead of the latest politics news, we're giving you some therapy. Sam shares listener questions around mental health issues with psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb. In addition to her clinical practice, Gottlieb is the New York Times best-selling author behind Maybe You Should Talk To Someone: A Therapist, HER Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed. She and Sam discuss burnout, white guilt, and when the right time is to reach out to a therapist. Gottlieb also co-hosts the podcast Dear Therapists and writes the weekly advice column 'Dear Therapist' for The Atlantic.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

"Everything's Fine" With Sarah Cooper Oct 30, 2020

With 2020 progressing the way it has, comedian Sarah Cooper wants you to know that Everything's Fine in her new comedy special. Sam talks to Sarah Cooper about her journey from going viral on TikTok lip-syncing to President Donald Trump, to starring in her own Netflix special. Then, Sam chats with Linda Holmes and Aisha Harris, hosts of the NPR Podcast Pop Culture Happy Hour, about their favorite politics and election pop culture picks.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Election Night(mare): Bush v. Gore and Why It Matters in 2020 Oct 27, 2020

Election Night 2020 is a week away. It's hard to know whether we'll have results that night, in a week or maybe even a month. But that's exactly what happened 20 years ago — between candidates Vice President Al Gore and Texas Gov. George W. Bush.
Sam goes back to that night with NPR's Ron Elving and Mara Liasson to chat about what they remember from working in the newsroom, why it was so chaotic, and what one of the most turbulent elections in U.S. history could teach us about... well, one of the most turbulent elections in U.S. history.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting 'Rough Translation': Dream Boy And The Poison Fans Oct 26, 2020

On this bonus drop, we feature an episode from the NPR podcast Rough Translation. A Chinese idol had millions of fans who adored him for his kindness and good looks. Then, this February, one group of fans accused another of violating their image of him. What happens is a lesson in morality and revenge, love and hate, and how these feelings are weaponized on the internet.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Getting Gamers To The Polls, Plus The Pandemic Economy Oct 23, 2020

Voter outreach took on an unconventional form Tuesday night when Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez streamed her gameplay of the hit game "Among Us" on Twitch. While she played the game with friends, her stream became one of the 20 most watched streams in Twitch history. Sam chats with Wired writer Cecilia D'Anastasio who explains the streaming platform's potential to reach new voters. Also, the pandemic has hit the economy hard, but not everyone is feeling the blows. Sam talks to Scott Horsley, NPR's Chief Economics Correspondent, about the pandemic economy – who's winning, who's losing and why.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'They've Dismissed Us': How Latino Voter Outreach Still Falls Short Oct 20, 2020

Latinos are the second largest group of eligible voters by race or ethnicity in the United States, but they continue to be misunderstood and underappreciated by political campaigns of all parties. Sam talks to Lisa García Bedolla, a scholar of Latino politics, about how the word "Latino" encompasses diverse communities of all political stripes and life experiences, and he checks in with the former mayor of a small town in Texas who's been thinking of Latino voter outreach for a long time.
You can follow us on Twitter @NPRItsBeenAMin and email us at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Voting In Texas, Plus John Paul Brammer Gives Advice Oct 16, 2020

From fights over early voting applications to ballot drop-off sites, voting in Texas has drawn national attention. Sam talks to Texas reporters Ashley Lopez of member station KUT and Jessica Huseman of ProPublica to unpack what's happening and what it means for voting access. Then, Sam gets advice from John Paul Brammer, creator of the advice column "Hola Papi."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Presenting Throughline: 'James Baldwin's Fire' Oct 13, 2020

Writer and thinker James Baldwin used the power of his words to confront in order to connect, something that feels especially relatable in a year when the United States has been forced to reckon with racial inequality. This week we share an episode from our friends at NPR's Throughline, about James Baldwin, his life and philosophy, and what we can learn from him to lead us into the future.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Joel Kim Booster On Religion, Identity, and Coming Out Oct 09, 2020

In honor of Coming Out Day this weekend, Sam talks to comedian and actor Joel Kim Booster about his experience coming out to his evangelical Christian family. As Kim Booster grew up in this religious household, he struggled to come to terms with his sexual orientation. On top of that, he was also adopted into an all-white family living in an all-white town. Kim Booster often jokes about his upbringing in his comedy sets: "I fully knew I was gay before I knew I was Asian." He also talks to Sam about finding community outside of church.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Radio Ambulante' Host Daniel Alarcón On The Immigrant Experience Oct 06, 2020

Sam revisits his 2017 chat with author and Radio Ambulante host, Daniel Alarcón. They discuss Alarcón's book of short stories, The King Is Always Above The People, which holds a mirror to the immigrant experience in today's political climate. Alarcón also shares his own experiences immigrating from Peru to the U.S. as a child.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Dangers of White Supremacy, Plus Demi Adejuyigbe Brings Joy Oct 02, 2020

When President Trump told white supremacists to "stand back and stand by," the country responded with heavy criticism. Sam talks with Kathleen Belew, assistant professor of history at the University of Chicago, about what we get wrong when we talk about the white power movement. Then, Sam chats with Demi Adejuyigbe, writer for The Amber Ruffin Show. They talk about his career, his viral September 21 videos, and how he uses online fame for good.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bowen Yang on 'SNL,' Diversity, and Culture Sep 29, 2020

Sam chats with comedian Bowen Yang about becoming the first Chinese American cast member on Saturday Night Live, what it was like to do the show during a pandemic, and why Adele Dazeem is the number one moment in the history of culture. Watch Sam's extended interview with Bowen here: https://youtu.be/1KMRAhxeDpA
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Supreme Court Misconceptions Sep 25, 2020

When the biggest news stories happen all at once, it's easy to miss what each of them really means. Since Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death last week, there have been questions about who will replace her and what it means for the court. Sam talks to Slate's Mark Joseph Stern about the Supreme Court's history and what recent discussions get wrong. Then, Democrats and progressives brought in massive fundraising dollars in the days after Justice Ginsburg's death. Sam chats with Julie Bykowicz of the Wall Street Journal about what all that money means. Finally, Sam talks to Tina Vasquez of Prism about the forced sterilization of immigrants in a Georgia detention center, and why it's important to see the bigger picture.
Follow us at https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us at samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Life And Legacy Of Ruth Bader Ginsburg Sep 24, 2020

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away last week at the age of 87. The conversation has quickly moved to the politics around her replacement, but what kind of legacy did she leave? In the award-winning documentary RBG, filmmakers Julie Cohen and Betsy West chronicle the life of Ginsburg, from her rise to the judicial branch to becoming the 'Notorious RBG.' NPR legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg also joins this encore conversation with Sam, Betsy, and Julie.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Coronavirus And Teachers Sep 22, 2020

This school year is proving to be unlike any other. Teaching might be a nightmare in schools doing hybrid learning, a success for those doing virtual learning, or vice versa. It all depends on which school district you're in and what resources and funding you might be able to access. So what's the experience been like so far for the teachers trying to make school happen?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Movie Industry Adapts, Plus LeVar Burton Reads Sep 18, 2020

The movie industry is hurting. Most theaters in the U.S. are still shut down, and who knows when—or if—audiences will pack into theaters again. Adam B. Vary and Angelique Jackson of Variety talk about the state of the movie industry and how it's adapted, for better or worse, in this pandemic. Also, Sam talks to actor LeVar Burton about reading, why we like being read to, what he really wanted you to learn from Reading Rainbow, and the latest season of his podcast LeVar Burton Reads.
Follow us at https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us at samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Larry Wilmore's Return to Late Night Sep 15, 2020

Larry Wilmore has a resume that could rival pretty much anyone's in Hollywood. Name a show and he probably had his hands in it. He created The Bernie Mac Show, co-created Insecure, wrote for shows like In Living Color, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and The Office, and served as the "Senior Black Correspondent" on The Daily Show. He also had his own late night show called The Nightly Show.
Now, Wilmore is back in the hosting chair with a new show on the NBC streaming service Peacock. Sam and Wilmore chat about starting a new show from scratch in a pandemic, deconstructing 2020, and why that one episode of The Office probably wouldn't fly today.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

West Coast On Fire, Plus Comedian Sam Jay Sep 11, 2020

The smoke, the flames, the creepy orange and red skies. It's fire season out west and it's already one for the books. Sam talks a resident of Napa County, CA, who had to flee her home because of the fires. Then he's joined by New York Times opinion writer Farhad Manjoo, who is convinced this is the end of California as we know it. Finally, comedian and SNL writer Sam Jay talks about her new Netflix special 3 O'Clock in the Morning.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Poet Claudia Rankine And 'Just Us' Sep 08, 2020

Poet Claudia Rankine is back with a new book called Just Us: An American Conversation. Much like her acclaimed 2014 book of poetry, Citizen: An American Lyric, her new volume offers an unflinching examination of race and racism in the United States — this time in conversations with friends and strangers. Guest host Audie Cornish talks to Rankine about what she learned about herself and others in these conversations, why she doesn't mind educating others about race, and how we move forward together in tough times.
Follow us: https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us: samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Pandemic Childcare; Plus Mukbang Meets True Crime Sep 04, 2020

Guest host Elise Hu looks at how the pandemic has exacerbated existing problems when it comes to the care of small children. A Massachusetts childcare center owner shares her story about reopening, while a public policy professor talks about the difficult choices women often have to make between their careers and caregiving. Also, a look at how mukbang and true crime collide in the world of Stephanie Soo, a YouTube star and host of the Rotten Mango podcast.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Bill Nye Became the 'Science Guy' Sep 01, 2020

Sam revisits his 2017 chat with Bill Nye the Science Guy. They discuss climate change (and climate change deniers), how Nye got his start in TV, and whether fame has changed him, for better or worse.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bonus Episode: 'Truth Be Told' Aug 31, 2020

A special bonus feed drop from the KQED podcast Truth Be Told, hosted by Tonya Mosley. A conversation about parenting during the pandemic — there's no right way to do it. Tonya and two Wise Ones, Nancy Redd, author and mother, and Wajahat Ali, New York Times contributor and father, answer questions about parenting during this tricky time.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Protests, Yesterday And Today Aug 28, 2020

This week we're talking protests, both old and new. On Wednesday, Milwaukee Bucks players refused to play their NBA playoff game in protest of racial injustice. Other pro athletes in the NBA, WNBA and more also walked off the job. Sam talks it out with Clinton Yates, columnist for The Undefeated. Then, we take it back 50 years to the Chicano Moratorium in Los Angeles on August 29, 1970. That march and rally against the Vietnam War ended in 200 arrests, many injuries, and three deaths, including journalist Rubén Salazar. It's Been a Minute producer Andrea Gutierrez shares a personal story about it.
Follow us: https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us: samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Pose' Star Billy Porter: 'Love Always Wins' Aug 25, 2020

Billy Porter is a force to be reckoned with. A Tony Award-winning Broadway performer. A fashion icon with unforgettable red carpet looks. An Emmy Award-winning actor (with another nomination under his belt this year). Currently, Porter stars in the acclaimed FX show Pose, all about New York's underground ball culture in the 80s and 90s. It's also takes place during the height of the HIV-AIDS crisis.
Sam talks to Porter about the parallels between that crisis and the one we're living in today, about growing up in the church, and why — despite everything that's happened this year — love will always win.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Another Wrench In The (Voting) Works, Plus Robin Thede On 'A Black Lady Sketch Show' Aug 21, 2020

Everyone's talking about obstacles to voting this year, from the post office to the pandemic. Sam talks with NPR's Miles Parks about how everything's supposed to work with the election in November. Then, Sam calls up historian Martha S. Jones, author of the forthcoming book Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All. They talk about why voting looks the way it does even in a normal cycle, and what the U.S. Constitution actually says about voting. Plus, Sam talks with comedian Robin Thede, creator and showrunner of A Black Lady Sketch Show, which is nominated for three Emmys this year. They talk about her long career in comedy, which includes her time as head writer for The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore and as host of The Rundown with Robin Thede, and play the game Who Said That.
Follow us: https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us: samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

All About That Base: Trump And Biden Voters In 2020 Aug 18, 2020

We're in the homestretch of the 2020 presidential election campaign. Joe Biden announced Sen. Kamala Harris as his running mate, Democrats have their national convention this week, Republicans next week, and each party's candidate is hoping to energize their voter base. Sam talks to The Atlantic's McKay Coppins about Donald Trump's base and how his campaign's digital efforts have evolved since 2016. Then NPR political correspondent Asma Khalid turns the focus to Biden's eclectic coalition of voters — who include not only a growing number of Black and brown voters, but also white, college-educated suburban voters — and who have one goal in common: to defeat Trump in November.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Good, Bad And Ugly Of The Pandemic Housing Market, Plus TikTok Under Fire Aug 14, 2020

Home sales are up, but the number of people facing evictions is also up. Sam talks to The Indicator's Stacey Vanek Smith and Cardiff Garcia about the good and bad news of the housing market in a pandemic. Then, TikTok is massively popular around the world, but now it's under fire from the Trump Administration due to national security concerns. We hear from NPR tech reporter Bobby Allyn about the latest on the social media upstart and what a proposed ban has to do with China and user data.
Follow us: https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us: samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Rise of Netflix Aug 11, 2020

One of the few companies doing well during this pandemic is Netflix. In the last few months, the streaming service has seen a huge uptick in new subscribers. Sam talks to Peter Kafka and Rani Molla, co-hosts of the podcast Land of the Giants, about the Netflix effect — how it got to where it is today, its win over Blockbuster, and the one TV show that launched a thousand binges (figuratively speaking).
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Regina King on Race, Policing and HBO's 'Watchmen' Aug 07, 2020

Sam revisits his chat with Regina King from 2019 after the actress' recent Emmy nomination for her performance on the HBO series Watchmen. In this encore interview, King talks about why she gravitates toward work that deals with race and policing, why she's still proud to call herself an American and why that also means demanding things to get a lot better than they are now.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Code Switch: What's In A 'Karen'? Aug 04, 2020

"Karen" is not just a name. It's also a persona, an attitude, a label for a certain type of white woman determined to get what she wants—especially at the expense of Black people. Karens are part of a long lineage going back at least a couple centuries. This week we share an episode from Code Switch about the origins of "Karen" as an archetype, who her ancestors were, and why such a label even exists.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bonus Episode: Padma Lakshmi on 'Asian Enough' Aug 03, 2020

A special bonus feed drop from The Los Angeles Times podcast Asian Enough: A conversation with Top Chef host, model and writer Padma Lakshmi about growing up Indian American in the San Gabriel Valley, cultural appropriation vs. appreciation in food, and her new Hulu show Taste the Nation.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Coronavirus Questions Answered, Plus A Chat About 'Indian Matchmaking' Jul 31, 2020

Should I wear a mask while running? How often should I wipe down my phone? Can I say hello to other people's dogs? Our listeners had questions about coronavirus, we have answers. Sam is joined by Short Wave host Maddie Sofia to dig into the science behind some of the decisions we have to make about everyday encounters in this pandemic. Then, Sam is all caught up in the buzz around Netflix's Indian Matchmaking, and he calls up journalist and former It's Been a Minute intern Hafsa Fathima to break it down.
Follow us: https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us: samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Aminatou Sow, Ann Friedman And Their 'Big Friendship' Jul 28, 2020

All relationships have a backstory, even friendships. Best friends Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman, hosts of the podcast Call Your Girlfriend, are out with a new book called Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close. In it, they write about their friendship story and they share lessons for all of us about how to keep our own friendships strong. Sam chats with them about going to friend therapy and what it's like to have a deep friendship with someone of a different race.
Follow us: https://twitter.com/NPRItsBeenAMin
Email us: samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's A Women's Recession Jul 24, 2020

We're in a recession, and it's hitting women especially hard. So how does it compare to the last recession, and how much of it has to do with childcare? Sam is joined by Planet Money's Mary Childs and Stacey Vanek Smith to make sense of it all. Then Sam chats with Reverend Jes Kast, an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, about how faith and scripture provide solace in moments of uncertainty like this.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'I May Destroy You' Star Michaela Coel Jul 21, 2020

Sam revisits his 2019 conversation with actress and writer Michaela Coel, who is the star and creator of the new critically acclaimed show, I May Destroy You. Before that show, Coel made waves in the hit British sitcom Chewing Gum. Her work as the creator, writer, and lead actress on the show earned her a BAFTA. She tells Sam about the emotional transparency that comes from shaving her head and how she once embraced the Pentecostal faith. They also bond over their feelings about Black Mirror: Bandersnatch.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

What's College Without A Campus? Plus Ziwe Makes Things Awkward Jul 17, 2020

Colleges and universities are getting ready for a new year, but like everything else, coronavirus is complicating everything. Some are closing campus and moving online, others plan to bring students back with social distancing. Sam checks in with Tressie McMillan Cottom, associate professor at UNC-Chapel Hill and author of Lower Ed: The Troubling Rise of For-Profit Colleges in the New Economy, about the state of higher education and why not all colleges are created equal when it comes to prioritizing health over business. Then he chats with comedian and Desus and Mero writer Ziwe Fumudoh, whose recent interviews with white celebrities like Alison Roman and Rose McGowan have generated a lot of social media buzz for her frank questions about race. They talk about the art of the interview and her comfort with discomfort.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Reckoning With Race in Journalism Jul 14, 2020

The newsrooms that covered the protests for racial justice are now being forced to confront racism and inequity within their own organizations. Black journalists and other journalists of color are sharing their experiences on social media and leading a public debate over what it means to be "objective," whose stories are told, and how whiteness still dictates newsroom practices, opportunities and compensation. Sam chats about this reckoning within newsrooms with The Undefeated's Soraya Nadia McDonald, Futuro Media president and founder and Latino USA host Maria Hinojosa and NPR public editor Kelly McBride.
Thanks for listening to our show! We want your feedback. Please visit npr.org/ibamsurvey to submit your thoughts now.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Paying The Price Of Coronavirus Jul 10, 2020

Four months into the pandemic, it seems like we're no better off in dealing with the coronavirus. There are still so many questions and few definitive answers about how this all ends, and for a lot of us, that's turned into anger and frustration. Sam talks to comedian Laurie Kilmartin about how she used Twitter and her iPad to process her mother's illness and death from COVID-19. Then he chats with Houston bar owner Greg Perez about how he's trying to keep workers and customers safe while also keeping his business afloat. And Sam asks Dr. Olveen Carrasquillo in Miami about how to make sense of all the mixed public health messaging on the coronavirus.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Chelsea Handler On White Privilege Jul 07, 2020

Last year, comedian Chelsea Handler made a documentary on Netflix called, Hello Privilege. It's Me, Chelsea, where she explored the idea of white privilege. Which happens to be a thing that a lot of people are talking about again... right now, in 2020.
Sam talks to Chelsea about what she's learned since then, her latest book — Life Will Be the Death of Me...and You Too! -- and coming to terms with both her own white privilege during the protests... and herself, in therapy.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Summer Pop Culture Recs, Plus A Visit With Kirk Franklin Jul 03, 2020

It's summer without a lot of the usual summer fun because, you know, pandemic. But we've got music and TV recommendations to keep you company. Joining Sam are All Things Considered co-host Audie Cornish and Code Switch co-host Gene Demby to chat about their TV picks — Netflix's Bojack Horseman and HBO's I May Destroy You — and to play a special summer songs version of Who Said That. Then, Sam chats with gospel musician, songwriter and author Kirk Franklin about how his music and faith are a balm for these turbulent times.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Nicole Byer On How To Love Yourself Jun 30, 2020

Ever wonder what it would be like to take hundreds of photos of yourself for a giant coffee table book ... wearing only a bikini? Comedian Nicole Byer has. And did, for her new book: #VeryFat #VeryBrave: The Fat Girl's Guide to Being #Brave and Not a Dejected, Melancholy, Down-in-the-Dumps Weeping Fat Girl in a Bikini.

Sam talks to the "Nailed It" Netflix host about what it was like to make the book, what it taught her about her body, and why the store Lane Bryant touches a nerve.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Much Have Facebook And Twitter Changed Since 2016? Jun 26, 2020

How much has Big Tech changed since the 2016 election? Sam is joined by Washington Post tech reporters Elizabeth Dwoskin and Tony Romm. They chat about Facebook and Twitter and how their platforms and views on free speech have evolved since the last presidential election. Sam also chats with Washington Post columnist and satirist Alexandra Petri about her book of essays Nothing Is Wrong and Here Is Why and how she uses humor to uncover bigger truths.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tracee Ellis Ross Is Thriving, Not Surviving Jun 23, 2020

Actress Tracee Ellis Ross has been acting for years — from the early 2000s sitcom 'Girlfriends' to her Golden Globe winning role on ABC's 'Black-ish.' She talks to Sam about pushing back against Black stereotypes on and off-screen, pursuing success at any age, finding Black joy during a tumultuous time, and sharing her singing work in her latest film 'The High Note' with her mother, music legend Diana Ross.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Supreme Court Protects Rights For DACA And LGBTQ Workers Jun 19, 2020

What does it all mean when so much change happens at the same time? This week, the Supreme Court protected the rights of two marginalized groups — DACA recipients and LGBTQ workers — and protests against police brutality continued around the world. Sam chats about the Supreme Court with Slate's Mark Joseph Stern, then checks in with Tobore Oweh, a DACA recipient who is hopeful yet realistic about her status. After that, Sam calls across the pond to UK writer Candice Carty-Williams about the Black Lives Matter protests near her.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

James McBride on Race, Religion and Why He's Hopeful Jun 16, 2020

James McBride is the National Award-winning author of The Good Lord Bird and the best-selling memoir, The Color of Water. His latest book is Deacon King Kong, which is set against the backdrop of 1960s Brooklyn and tells the story of how one man's decision upended an entire neighborhood. Sam talks to McBride about race, religion and community, the parallels he sees to the world we're living in today, and why he's still optimistic, despite protests and a pandemic.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Lessons About Racism from 'Cops' and 'Gone With The Wind' Jun 12, 2020

The killing of George Floyd has inspired global protests against police brutality, and it seems like everyone has something to say, including the entertainment industry. Sam's joined by NPR television critic Eric Deggans and Tonya Mosley, co-host of NPR/WBUR's Here & Now and host of the KQED podcast Truth Be Told. They talk about the cancellation of the long-running reality TV show Cops, the removal of Gone With the Wind from HBO Max, and what it all says about this moment. After that, Sam chats with Rev. Jacqui Lewis, senior minister at Middle Collegiate Church in Manhattan, and Rev. angel Kyodo williams, a Zen priest. They talk about what Black people and white people should be doing differently now and give Sam a bit of sermon.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Trump v Nixon on Race: Why 2020 Isn't Quite 1968 Jun 09, 2020

2020 is '68 all over again. But not the '68 you think. Yes, 1968 also saw protests, racial divisions and political polarization. Adam Serwer covers politics for The Atlantic, and he says you can certainly draw comparisons between Trump and Nixon – in that Trump is actually a backlash to the policies that came out of 1968. But Serwer says 1868 is a better point of comparison – it was a moment of hope, when white Republicans had been fighting for black rights for years, before ultimately abandoning them to pursue white voters. Serwer sees Americans coming together in this moment, as they have in the past, but as a student of history, he says the backlash always comes eventually.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Not Just Another Protest Jun 05, 2020

There is so much to unpack in this current moment. Sam has a candid conversation with Aunt Betty about how history has shaped her view of the current protests, and he walks around downtown Los Angeles to get the perspective of people he meets. Sam also talks to BuzzFeed News reporter Melissa Segura on her recent reporting about police unions and what they mean for reform, and Morning Edition executive producer Kenya Young about being a black parent during this time.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Hasan Minhaj On Faith And Seeking Answers Jun 02, 2020

Comedian Hasan Minhaj is not afraid of talking about his faith, even when it gets him in trouble. He's a two-time Peabody Award winner and host of the Netflix show Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj, which has just begun its second season. He talks to Sam about being an Indian American Muslim, how he finds joy in family and what his faith means to him today.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Money and Coronavirus; Samantha Irby On Judge Mathis May 29, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic has us worrying not only about our health, but also about money. Sam talks to CBS News business analyst Jill Schlesinger, about the current economic crisis and how it's affecting different generations. Then, Sam talks to writer Samantha Irby about her newsletter "Who's On Judge Mathis Today?," which recaps the foibles of the syndicated daytime court show Judge Mathis.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Yvonne Orji on 'Insecure' May 26, 2020

Yvonne Orji plays the part of best friend Molly Carter on the HBO series Insecure, but Orji will soon headline her own stand-up special in June called, "Mama, I Made It." Orji talks to Sam about religion, getting her start in comedy at a Nigerian beauty pageant, growing up with strict immigrant parents and finding the humor in all of it.
Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Maya Erskine Takes The Lead In 'Plus One' And 'PEN15' May 22, 2020

Maya Erskine has come a long way from the NYU experimental theater department where she met her PEN15 co-creator Anna Konkle. In this encore episode, Erskine talks to Sam about her starring role in the genre-bending romantic comedy Plus One and how she wrote her own life experiences into the character she plays on Hulu's PEN15.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Saeed Jones On 'How We Fight For Our Lives' — And How He Fought For His May 19, 2020

Sam revisits his 2019 conversation with poet and writer Saeed Jones. Saeed discusses his memoir, How We Fight For Our Lives, a vulnerable exploration of his coming of age as black and gay in suburban Texas. The former BuzzFeed editor sat down with Sam to give a glimpse of the stories behind his book, including those of his mother and grandmother, and one where he faced violence during a sexual encounter with another man. This episode contains graphic discussion of sex, sexuality and abuse.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Show Must Go On May 15, 2020

Ever since the coronavirus pandemic began, we've become more accustomed to life closing down than opening up. But for many, putting life on pause isn't an option. This week, Sam talks to people whose lives were thrown off course, but who scrambled to keep doing what they were doing. A home health aide talks about the risk she now takes to do her work. A political organizer explains how door knocking and canvassing had to go digital. And an international student is determined to stay in the United States, despite losing her classes, her housing, and her job.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Chicano Batman On 'Invisible People' And LA Vibes May 12, 2020

The music of the band Chicano Batman has long defied genre. Funk, psychedelic, soul, indie — it's all these things and more. Sam talks to band members Carlos Arévalo and Bardo Martinez about their new album, Invisible People, what it's like not to be able to tour and how their music is the ultimate reflection of their hometown, Los Angeles.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Back To Capitol Hill May 08, 2020

Politics may not be the first thing on minds right now, but it's still happening. With the Senate returning to session this week, Sam checks in to see how Capitol Hill is operating safely. NPR congressional correspondent Susan Davis discusses how congressional members are taking precautions, while NPR White House reporter Ayesha Rascoe explains how President Trump's election rallies could possibly continue with social distancing in place. Then, Sam calls up an artist in Sweden — which hasn't imposed strict lockdown measures— to find out what everyday life now looks like.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Love And Coronavirus May 05, 2020

Sam hears listener stories and expert tips on virtual dating and maintaining relationships in the coronavirus era. He's joined by Lane Moore, comedian and host of Tinder Live,and Damona Hoffman, a dating and relationship coach and host of the podcast Dates & Mates with Damona Hoffman. Damona also shares questions from her podcast listeners.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

TV, Movies And Coronavirus May 01, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic is affecting all parts of the entertainment industry. Sam talks to writer and comedian Jenny Yang and camera operator Jessica Hershatter, whose jobs are on hold due to shutdowns. Also, Sam and LA Times entertainment reporter Meredith Blake discuss television and streaming. And joining Sam for a special edition of Who Said That is Shea Serrano, staff writer for The Ringer and author of the book Movies (and Other Things).
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

It's Been A Minute Presents: Code Switch Apr 28, 2020

The United States government has changed its definition of who counts as black throughout the years and the census is proof of that. During the very first census in 1790, it was simply "slaves." Now, in 2020, it's "Black or African American," with the option to write in a country of origin. This week, we share an episode from the Code Switch podcast about the ever-shifting boundaries of blackness and why it matters to this decade's census.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Coronavirus: The Great Equalizer — Or Maybe Not Apr 24, 2020

Depending on where you live, your race, and your income, the coronavirus pandemic can look dramatically different. Sam's NPR colleagues, Leila Fadel, based in Los Angeles, California, and Kirk Siegler, based in Boise, Idaho, compare how differently rural and urban populations are dealing with the pandemic — and what they may have in common. Then, Sam speaks with a listener who had COVID-19 and thinks she may have passed it on to a co-worker who later died. And listeners share all the things helping them cope and getting them through this time.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Sopan Deb on 'Missed Translations' and Found Connections Apr 21, 2020

Sopan Deb lived under the same roof with both of his parents for most of his childhood, but never knew their ages or where they grew up or if they had any siblings. He didn't know much about them at all. He lived in a house of strangers, each going about their own lives, only briefly bumping into one another. It wasn't until Sopan turned 30 that he realized he was missing something and set out to reconnect with the family he never really understood.
Sam talks to Sopan about his journey of self-reflection, traveling to India to see his father and what he ultimately learned about his family and himself.
Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Sports On Hold, And Your Productivity Too Apr 17, 2020

The coronavirus has completely reshaped the world of sports. Sam talks to ESPN senior writer and ESPN Daily host Mina Kimes and The Undefeated columnist Clinton Yates about how different professional leagues are dealing with the pandemic. Also, BuzzFeed senior culture writer Anne Helen Petersen chats with Sam about our obsession with productivity in quarantine times.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Encore: Drag Culture's Moment - From 'RuPaul's Drag Race' to Shangela Apr 14, 2020

Where is drag culture right now? It's certainly continuing to have a moment: from RuPaul's Drag Race, to DragCon, to drag queens appearing on the big screen. In this encore episode, Sam revisits the history of drag, chats with the co-executive producers of RuPaul's Drag Race, and talks to some drag performers about where drag is headed next.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Yes, The Census Is Still Happening Apr 10, 2020

The census comes but once a decade, and this time it's in the midst of a pandemic. Code Switch co-hosts Gene Demby and Shereen Marisol Meraji talk it out with Sam. Also, hospitals have been dramatically changed by the coronavirus, but babies still need to be delivered. Sam talks to one mom-to-be whose birth plans have been upended by the crisis.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Jonathan Van Ness on Quarantine Life and His New Children's Book Apr 07, 2020

Jonathan Van Ness wears many hats: He's one of the Fab Five on the popular Netflix show Queer Eye, a podcast host, an aspiring figure skater and gymnast, a grooming and self-care expert, a comedian, and author of a best-selling memoir. And now... a children's book author.
Sam talks to Van Ness about why he decided to write Peanut Goes for the Gold, about a gender nonbinary guinea pig who has their own way of doing things, and how he's been dealing with social distancing during self-quarantine.
Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: A Jobs Crisis, And It's No One's Fault Apr 03, 2020

The coronavirus is taking a toll on jobs and the economy. Sam talks to NPR's Cardiff Garcia and Stacey Vanek Smith, co-hosts of The Indicator from Planet Money, about ways to get people paid while they're out of work and the necessity for businesses to pivot to stay afloat. Also, Sam and NPR music news editor Sidney Madden talk about new ways people are listening to music and partying online in "club quarantine."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Homeschooling In The Age Of The Coronavirus Mar 31, 2020

Right now a lot of parents have taken on a new responsibility: homeschool teacher. Many feel like they have no idea what they're doing. Sam talks with parents in all different kinds of circumstances trying to make it work.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: The Coronavirus 'New Normal' Mar 27, 2020

The last few weeks have meant adjusting to new ways of life. Sam talks to two NPR colleagues about how life in lockdown is affecting them personally. Morning Edition host David Greene tells Sam how his wife, a restaurateur, is coping with a struggling industry and whether a new congressional stimulus bill can offer relief. Then, Kelly McEvers, host of Embedded and the new Coronavirus Daily podcast, talks about the realities of homeschooling. Sam also speaks with Variety writer Meg Zukin, whose tweet asking couples to share their coronavirus "drama" went viral.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Audie Cornish on 'She's Funny' Mar 24, 2020

Audie Cornish sits down with Sam Sanders to discuss her She's Funny series: conversations with female comedians Hannah Gadsby, Margaret Cho, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jenny Slate and others. In a series of vignettes, Audie and Sam discuss how these women charged forward in their careers and what risks they've taken through the years. Plus, Audie's extended conversation with comedian Jenny Slate on what the culture is really like at Saturday Night Live.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Special Episode: A Social Distancing Survival Guide Mar 20, 2020

It's hard being isolated from jobs, friends and family. So Sam is changing up this week's show with guests who have ideas on how to cope with the quarantine. Superstar chef Samin Nosrat of Netflix's "Salt Fat Acid Heat" and Tucker Shaw of "America's Test Kitchen" talk about cooking for neighbors, helping laid-off restaurant workers, and making better meals out of the stuff you've got at hand. Comedian Iliza Schlesinger talks about what she's getting done during her time at home, and we hear from a Stanford psychologist about creating "distant socializing" to keep ourselves connected.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Obama's Historic 'Race Speech' -12 Years Later Mar 17, 2020

Twelve years ago this week, presidential candidate Barack Obama gave what became a historic speech about race. He spoke in response to video that surfaced of his former pastor, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, heatedly criticizing America's foreign policy and treatment of African-Americans. In his speech, Obama urged racial harmony and understanding. Sam is joined by political commentators, activists and academics to see if the speech's message still holds up.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Everything Is Canceled, Here Are Some Distractions Mar 13, 2020

The coronavirus may force you to stay at home for the next few weeks, but here's how to successfully wait out a pandemic. Bob Mondello, film critic for NPR, tells Sam what movies to catch up on while self-quarantined, with some tips for film-watching etiquette. And with more people working from home, Barrie Hardymon, senior editor at Weekend Edition, recommends shows, movies and games both parents and kids can enjoy. Then, Sam talks to Edgar Ortiz, a student at Berea College in Kentucky. Like millions of American students, Ortiz is facing the closure of his campus and preparing to finish the semester online. Sam also talks to reporter Trish Murphy, host of podcast Seattle Now, about what it's like to see an empty Seattle ⁠— America's coronavirus epicenter.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Daniel Mallory Ortberg on 'Something That May Shock and Discredit You' Mar 10, 2020

Daniel Mallory Ortberg is the writer behind Slate's Dear Prudence advice column. But now in his new book, Something That May Shock and Discredit You, Ortberg writes about something closer to home: his journey of transition from Mallory to Daniel. He talks to Sam about his relationship with religion, the power of self-knowledge and being able to fully own who you are.
Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Afghanistan Withdrawal, Coronavirus Fears Mar 06, 2020

It's an all-NPR show! Sam talks with two fellow correspondents about big stories in the news this week. Stacey Vanek Smith, co-host of NPR's The Indicator from Planet Money, tells Sam about the "coronabump" — consumer goods and services that are seeing a spike in business because of the virus outbreak. And NPR's Quil Lawrence talks about the negotiated withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan after nearly 20 years at war. Then Sam talks to Shankar Vedantam, host of NPR's Hidden Brain, about how we can keep our fears of coronavirus in perspective.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Pamela Adlon on 'Better Things' Mar 03, 2020

Pamela Adlon is the writer, star, director and co-creator of Better Things on FX. The television comedy-drama follows Adlon's character, Sam, as a divorced actress, raising three kids in Los Angeles. In real life, Adlon is a divorced actress, raising three kids in Los Angeles. Sam talks to Adlon about her career, seeing your parents as real-life people, and the awful, crazy, beautiful experience of being a parent yourself.
Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Coronavirus and the Markets; 'Love Is Blind' is Final Boss Reality TV Feb 28, 2020

The fast-moving coronavirus has turned up in more than 40 countries, and now it's affecting the global economy. Sam talks to two reporters from Marketplace about the financial impact of the virus. Marielle Segarra details how consumers might feel its consequences, while Reema Khrais, host of the podcast This Is Uncomfortable, explains how the US government is trying to respond. Then, Sam talks to Mark Cuevas, a contestant on the Netflix show Love Is Blind, about his time on the show. He follows up that conversation with Washington Post TV critic Hank Stuever, to break down the popularity of shows where contestants can't see each other.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Nick Kroll on 'Olympic Dreams' And 'Big Mouth' Feb 25, 2020

Nick Kroll is the co-creator of the raunchy animated Netflix hit Big Mouth. The show (and Kroll) are known for over the top, strange, yet totally relatable comedy. Now, Kroll is out with a new film in which he plays a romantic lead for the first time. Olympic Dreams was filmed at the 2018 Olympics in South Korea. He tells Sam about making the movie and how it has a lot in common with Big Mouth.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: The Rise of Bloomberg, Revisiting Oakland Feb 21, 2020

Billionaire Michael Bloomberg has been rising in the polls. He's spent more than $450 million on ads, but faced a big challenge Wednesday in his first presidential debate. This week, Sam talks to two journalists who have covered Bloomberg for years. Rosie Gray, a reporter for Buzzfeed News, says that his lackluster debate performance shows that there is a limit to the power of money on the campaign trail. Matt Flegenheimer, a national political reporter for The New York Times, details how Bloomberg is using his wealth to run a very different campaign than his competitors. Then, Sam revisits his reporting from Oakland last year on the realities of young people living with gun violence every day.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: R. Eric Thomas on 'Here for It: Or, How to Save Your Soul in America' Feb 18, 2020

R. Eric Thomas writes a column that is part news, part culture and part celebrity shade for Elle.com. But in his new book, "Here for It: Or, How to Save Your Soul in America," Thomas takes a look at his own life. He talks to Sam about his love of words, growing up as a gay black teenager and finding love in an unexpected place. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Elections Are Too Modern, Evidently So Are Federal Buildings Feb 14, 2020

The nation's first caucus and primary are in the rear-view mirror, and states around the country are second-guessing their election systems after the app used in the Iowa Caucus failed. Miles Parks, a reporter on NPR's Washington Desk, talks about how the state of Nevada is learning lessons from Iowa, including keeping the process slow so that results are certain. Libby Denkmann, senior politics reporter at member station KPCC, discusses how Los Angeles County is creating its own voting system — a hybrid of paper and electronic systems. Then, Sam talks with writer and architecture critic Kate Wagner about why a proposed rule from the Trump administration that would mandate "classical style" for new federal buildings is angering the design world.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: What Makes a Hit Pop Song Feb 11, 2020

Listen up music composition nerds and music lovers! In this episode Sam is joined by Nate Sloan and Charlie Harding, co-hosts of the podcast Switched On Pop. They break down what makes a song: why certain pop songs become ear worms and what their form and structure mean for the future of music. Answers to those questions and more that will leave you singing along. Sloan and Harding's recent book is called Switched On Pop: How Popular Music Works and Why It Matters.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Oscars Still So White. So Is New Hampshire's Primary Feb 07, 2020

The Oscars are Sunday and once again this year's nominees reflect an Academy that's still older, whiter, and more male. All five directing nominees are men, and 19 of 20 nominees for acting are white.
Adam B. Vary, Senior Entertainment Writer for Variety, tells Sam the best-reviewed film of the year is "Parasite," from South Korea, which is up for Best Picture. But none of its cast were singled out for awards. Audrey Cleo Yap, host of Daily Variety on Variety.com, says that lack of notice for Asian actors is consistent with past Academy behavior. She also notes the few film industry insiders who are pushing Hollywood to open up — but says most are too fearful to speak out.
Sam also talks with two Virginia Commonwealth University political science students who traveled with their class to New Hampshire to observe and participate in the state's presidential primary activities. They're featured the New Hampshire Public Radio podcast Stranglehold. They asked why such an overwhelmingly white state should remain the first to hold a primary — when it doesn't reflect the rest of the nation.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Roy Wood Jr. on Comedy, Criminal Justice, and Chicken Sandwiches Feb 04, 2020

Roy Wood Jr. has been a comedian since he was 19. He's a correspondent for 'The Daily Show with Trevor Noah' and has two Comedy Central specials under his belt. Wood talks to Sam about his career, how to be funny in a changing political climate, and a project he's working on that was inspired by a run-in with the law. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Coronavirus and Racism, Australia Fires, Kobe Bryant's Legacy Jan 31, 2020

It's been a busy week in news. Australia's capital Canberra is menaced by wildfires and has declared a state of emergency. And the fast spread of the coronavirus has also led to racist comments and press coverage about Asian food and Asian-American eating habits. Sam talks about these stories with panelists Julie Cart, a reporter for CalMatters and Andrew Ti, host of the podcast Yo, Is This Racist?and writer for the ABC series Mixed-ish. Then sports writer Jemele Hill of the Atlantic reflects on basketball legend Kobe Bryant, who was killed along with his daughter and seven others in a helicopter crash this past week. Sam asks how and when we should acknowledge the good and bad sides of someone's life after a sudden death.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Prince's Iconic Moments Jan 28, 2020

Randee St. Nicholas met Prince for the first time in 1991, when she was hired to do their first shoot together. From there she captured some of his highest moments doing sold out shows across the world, to his most vulnerable, in hotel rooms late at night. Randee recalls her memorable relationship with Prince that spanned years and led to countless memories. She's published her photos of the iconic singer in a new book called My Name Is Prince.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Flint Water Crisis Continues, Hillary Clinton on Bernie Sanders Jan 24, 2020

As President Trump's impeachment trial starts in the Senate, we look to some ongoing stories to recap the week in news. An NPR investigation finds a government agency reported deeply disturbing housing and health conditions in ICE facilities holding people seeking asylum. And the Supreme Court opens up a pathway for civil lawsuits over lead-poisoned water in Flint, Michigan. Plus, a conversation about a new Hillary Clinton documentary, and her comments on Democratic presidential contender Bernie Sanders. Sam is joined by Tom Dreisbach, investigative reporter for NPR's Embedded podcast, and Vanessa Romo, NPR breaking news reporter.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Author Jennifer Weiner On 'Mrs. Everything' & Plus-Size Representation In Books Jan 21, 2020

NPR Code Switch correspondent Karen Grigsby Bates steps in for Sam. She is joined by best-selling author Jennifer Weiner, who has written popular books like Good In Bed, In Her Shoes, and Little Earthquakes over the past two decades. Weiner talks about her latest novel, Mrs. Everything, the importance of having plus-size characters in books and speaking out against sexism.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Big Tech Gonna Big Tech, Congrats To 'Those Men' On Oscar Nods Jan 17, 2020

Guest host Elise Hu steps in again for Sam this week, this time from member station KQED in San Francisco. She's joined by Nitasha Tiku, tech culture reporter at the Washington Post, and Farhad Manjoo, an opinion columnist at The New York Times who focuses on technology and culture. They talk about news from Google and Apple, surveillance, and the role big tech's products play in geopolitics. Plus, the creative director of VOGUE Italia explains why the latest issue of the magazine contains no photos.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Broadway Playwright Jeremy O. Harris On 'Slave Play' Jan 14, 2020

One of Broadway's hottest tickets last year was a play with no big-name actors by a 30-year-old black queer writer. Jeremy O. Harris talks to Sam about poking the bear that is Broadway, and whether he thinks he'll be embraced there long-term. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Harvey Weinstein Trial Begins, Iran Conflict, Plus Getting Off Twitter Jan 10, 2020

Elise Hu steps in for Sam this week, from member station WBEZ in Chicago. She's joined by NPR's Peter Sagal, host of 'Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!', and Greta Johnsen of WBEZ's 'Nerdette' podcast. They discuss Harvey Weinstein, the Hollywood producer now on trial in New York for sex crimes. Plus, an Iranian-American writer shares her perspective on decades of disputes between Iran and the U.S. Also, Peter tries to get off Twitter.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Jad Abumrad On 'Dolly Parton's America' Jan 07, 2020

You may know Jad Abumrad as the host of WNYC's 'Radiolab.' He tells Sam why he created another podcast, Dolly Parton's America, examining the life and work of music legend Dolly Parton. Jad himself grew up in Nashville, where his physician father, a Lebanese immigrant, struck up an unlikely friendship with the singer. Jad uses this podcast to ask what divides us, and how we can transcend those divides like Dolly does. Maybe. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How To Start Your 2020 Right: Advice From NPR's 'Life Kit' Jan 06, 2020

Wondering how to get a solid start on your New Year's resolution? Whether you're hoping to get your finances in better shape or change your diet, the experts at NPR's 'Life Kit' have some advice that can help. NPR correspondent Chris Arnold and NPR senior editor and correspondent Maria Godoy join Sam Sanders as they dig into how to make those New Year's resolutions stick and how to have a relaxing weekend.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Encore Interview: Jimmy O. Yang From 'Silicon Valley' Dec 31, 2019

'Silicon Valley' and 'Crazy Rich Asians' star Jimmy O. Yang spoke to Sam in 2018 about his book 'How To American: An Immigrant's Guide To Disappointing Your Parents.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Encore Interview: Authors Candice Carty-Williams And Angie Thomas Dec 27, 2019

On this special episode, Sam Sanders revisits his 2019 conversations with two writers whose books he loved: Candice Carty-Williams, author of 'Queenie,' and Angie Thomas, author of the books, 'On The Come Up' and 'The Hate U Give.' Candice Carty-Williams' 'Queenie' has been called "the black 'Bridget Jones' Diary" and centers around a 25-year-old woman going through the awkwardness of breakups, love and life. Angie Thomas's 'On The Come Up' chronicles the story of a young girl who wants to be a rapper and whose song goes viral in an unexpected way.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Encore Interview: Maroon 5's PJ Morton On Reimagining Classic Christmas Songs Dec 24, 2019

Last Christmas PJ Morton released 'Christmas With PJ.' He and Sam spoke about putting new twists on holiday classics, and what his father — a legendary gospel singer and preacher — taught him about music. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: A Look Back At 2019 In Democracy, Protests And Business Dec 20, 2019

There were large-scale protests in countries across the globe the year. What do they signify about our current cultural moment? Plus a look back at the state of democracy in the United States and a dive into China's increasing influence in the U.S. entertainment industry. Sam is joined by NPR political editor Ron Elving and host of NPR's "Weekend Edition Sunday" Lulu Garcia-Navarro.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Why 'Friends' Remains So Successful — And So Divisive — Even In 2019 Dec 17, 2019

The NBC sitcom 'Friends' has been around for 25 years, and its popularity endures. Netflix says 'Friends' was the second most popular show on its streaming platform this year, based on minutes watched, and the show has also struck a chord with a younger generation. What is it about 'Friends' that resonates with viewers, and what does it say about us? Sam Sanders spoke to listeners, reporters and a critic to find out what it is that people love — and despise — about Chandler, Joey, Monica, Phoebe, Rachel and Ross.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: How Cities Are Responding To Homelessness, Plus All About Flu Season Dec 13, 2019

Cities across the United States are struggling to figure out how to best respond to rising populations of people experiencing homelessness, especially in light of shortages of affordable housing and recent court rulings. Plus everything you should know about this year's flu season. Sam is joined this week by NPR national desk correspondents Kirk Siegler and Leila Fadel.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Writer Lyz Lenz On 'God Land', Faith And Politics In The Midwest Dec 10, 2019

In the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election, writer Lyz Lenz watched a discussion unfold about Midwestern voters, their political views and their religious beliefs. Then, her politically divided marriage ended when she learned she and her husband had voted for different presidential candidates. She found herself questioning the impact of faith on politics in middle America. Lenz's book, ' God Land: A Story of Faith, Loss, and Renewal in Middle America,' explores exactly that: the conversations taking place in churches in the Midwest and their impact on Americans' values. Lenz and Sam Sanders spoke about questioning her faith, how religious institutions shape our personal views and whether Americans can bridge their political and religious divides.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Climate Talks, PrEP Access, Women's Rage Dec 06, 2019

International climate talks began this week in Madrid. The U.S. sent representatives even though President Trump has claimed the U.S. is officially out of the international climate accord. The Trump Administration also said this week it has a plan to distribute HIV-prevention medication for free to individuals without prescription drug insurance coverage. Does the plan go far enough? Plus, Jennifer Aniston gets angry in her performance in 'The Morning Show.' What does her character tell us about female rage? Sam is joined this week by NPR Science Reporter Rebecca Hersher and NPR Health Policy Reporter Selena Simmons-Duffin.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Liz Plank On 'For The Love Of Men' Dec 03, 2019

Writer Liz Plank is worried about men. She's not just concerned about toxic masculinity — though she hates that phrase. She's worried our politics and cultural conversation about men is actually leaving them behind. Plank spoke to Sam about her new book, 'For The Love Of Men: A New Vision For Mindful Masculinity,' which offers a blueprint for men to examine themselves and how they think about gender.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Chef Samin Nosrat, Plus Dan Pashman Vs. The Thanksgiving Industrial Complex Nov 29, 2019

In this special episode, Sam Sanders and Dan Pashman of 'The Sporkful' question food media's never-ending effort to make Thanksgiving new each year, and discuss how to make the holiday less stressful and more enjoyable. Then, an encore presentation of Sam's interview with 'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat' writer and cook Samin Nosrat. She talks about her philosophy as a chef, how she's handling fame and how she feels about the state of the food world.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Comedian Nicole Byer On Auditioning, Coping With Loss And Fat Jokes Nov 26, 2019

We're sharing 'All Things Considered' host Audie Cornish's conversation with comedian Nicole Byer, whom she calls a "star on the rise." Byer has helmed a comedy series, two hit podcasts, a Netflix comedy special and the Emmy-nominated Netflix cooking series, 'Nailed It!' The pair sat down in front of a live audience in Los Angeles earlier this year to talk about her successes, auditioning as a black woman in comedy and using improv to cope with the loss of her parents.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Dems Debate, Mister Rogers and WeWork Nov 22, 2019

Guest host Elise Hu steps in for Sam this week. She is joined by panelists Jacob Margolis, science reporter for Southern California Public Radio, and Peter Hamby, host of Snapchat's Good Luck America, and contributing writer for Vanity Fair. They discuss the aftermath of a California school shooting, the fall of WeWork, and the lawmaker who may have farted on air. Plus, why Mister Rogers is still ingrained in the American psyche, years after his PBS show went off the air.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Alicia Menendez On How Women Fall Into 'The Likeability Trap' Nov 19, 2019

Journalist Alicia Menendez has noticed a problem: in the workplace, and in many aspects of their lives, women are forced into becoming inauthentic versions of themselves in order to be likeable. Her new book, 'The Likeability Trap: How To Break Free And Succeed As You Are,' examines how to avoid these traps. Menendez and guest host Elise Hu talked about creating more fulfilling personal relationships and a better workplace and how likeability plays into politics.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Disney+, Four-Day Workweek, Impeachment In Historical Context Nov 15, 2019

Disney launched its highly anticipated streaming service, Disney+, this week and added a message to viewers that some of its older material may include outdated or offensive content or cultural images. A trial of a four-day workweek in Japan showed signs of increasing productivity — could something similar succeed in a country like the United States? And as the nation turns its focus to the now-public impeachment hearings of President Donald Trump, Sam talks with Leon Neyfakh, host of seasons one and two of the podcast 'Slow Burn.' In those episodes Neyfakh recounted the Senate Watergate hearings into President Richard Nixon and the impeachment hearings of President Bill Clinton. He talks to Sam about similarities and differences to what's happening now. Sam is joined by BuzzFeed senior film reporter Adam B. Vary and host of NPR's 'The Indicator' podcast Stacey Vanek Smith.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Musician Jacob Collier On Making Everyday Sounds Into Songs Nov 12, 2019

English composer, singer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier first gained attention on YouTube in 2012, and since then he's signed to Quincy Jones' record label, won two Grammys and released three albums. The 25-year-old's music is a mix of jazz, neo-soul and funk. He and Sam Sanders talked about his upcoming work, his four-album project, 'Djesse' and using everyday sounds to make songs.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: DACA's Legal Future, The Lasting Impact Of Prop 187, And Local Politics Nov 08, 2019

The Supreme Court is set to consider the termination of the DACA — Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals — program, which the Trump Administration rescinded in 2017. What does the program's legal future look like? Plus, how Prop 187 — a California ballot measure from 25 years ago — has influenced how Americans view and legislate about immigration. Then, what effect is the national political discourse having on local politics? Sam talks with State College, Pennsylvania Borough Councilman Dan Murphy about how things are playing out in his town. Sam is joined by L.A. Times writers Gustavo Arellano and Cindy Carcamo.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Comedian Amanda Seales On 'Insecure' And Her Book, 'Small Doses' Nov 05, 2019

Amanda Seales is perhaps best known for her role as Tiffany in HBO's 'Insecure,' but the actress and stand-up comedian has been busy the last few years. She hosts the comedy game show, 'Smart, Funny, And Black,' and her first stand-up special, 'I Be Knowin'' came to HBO earlier this year. Now Seales is out with a book, 'Small Doses: Potent Truths for Everyday Use,' full of life advice. Seales and Sam Sanders talked about the success of 'Insecure,' what it means for black shows on TV and who her comedy is for.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Impeachment, Kanye West, Plus Why The Internet Loves Jeff Goldblum Nov 01, 2019

The House of Representatives voted on guidelines this week for a formal impeachment inquiry into President Trump, with only two Democrats voting against the measure. Where is the inquiry headed next, and how is the public feeling about it? Meanwhile, Kanye West's new album takes a gospel turn and dives into the artist's spirituality, but how are critics feeling about "Jesus Is King"? Plus why actor Jeff Goldblum has become so beloved on the internet. Sam is joined by host of NPR's 'All Things Considered' Audie Cornish and NPR music editor and reviewer Stephen Thompson.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Comedian Pete Holmes On 'Comedy Sex God' And His Faith Oct 29, 2019

Comedian and actor Pete Holmes played a fictional version of himself in the HBO show 'Crashing,' where the stand-up comic finds himself homeless after his wife cheats on him. In real life, Holmes found himself rediscovering his faith after his divorce from his first wife — and that's the topic he explores in his book, 'Comedy Sex God.' Holmes and Sam Sanders talked about his faith journey, what it means to believe in a higher power and how it's shaped Holmes' life.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: School Surveillance, That Anonymous Book, College Tuition Benefits Oct 25, 2019

Senate Republicans have introduced a bill that would expand online and other surveillance of American schoolchildren, in what they call an effort to prevent mass shootings and other violence. But is that type of surveillance effective — and what does it mean for privacy? Plus, news of a book purportedly written by a Trump administration insider, who last year published an anonymous New York Times op-ed about resisting the President's agenda. Service-industry employers such as Chipotle are expanding college tuition benefits to attract workers and reduce turnover. Sam speaks to a Starbucks employee who is close to finishing her degree through that company's program and asks whether most employees can actually take advantage of these benefits. Sam is joined by NPR education correspondent Anya Kamenetz and NPR arts editor Rose Friedman.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Actress Regina King On Having Difficult Conversations About Race Oct 22, 2019

Actress Regina King has been on-screen for more than three decades, working in films and TV shows such as '227' and 'American Crime.' But winning several high-profile awards has rocketed her career to new heights. She has also stepped into the role of director and vowed to produce projects with 50 percent women. She now stars in the new HBO series 'Watchmen,' which is inspired by the graphic novel of the same name. The show deals heavily with issues of race and policing, which has also been a theme across King's other projects.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: What's Going On In Turkey And Syria, And Facebook's Political Ad Problem Oct 18, 2019

After President Trump ordered US troops removed from northern Syria, tensions in the region remain high, despite a temporary ceasefire agreement by Turkey. Sam and his guests discuss that story and look back at this week's Democratic presidential debate. Meanwhile, Facebook continues to deal with backlash over its handling of political ads and its proposed global currency, Libra. Sam is joined by Matt Pearce, a reporter for the L.A. Times covering the 2020 presidential campaign, and by the host of NPR's 'Embedded' podcast, Kelly McEvers.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Comedian Cristela Alonzo On Her Sitcom And Her Love Of Music Oct 15, 2019

You might have seen Cristela Alonzo in her Netflix stand-up special or on her ABC sitcom, 'Cristela.' Now she's out with a book all about music's role in her life called 'Music to My Years: A Mixtape Memoir of Growing Up and Standing Up.' In it she talks about her life as a first generation Mexican-American and how she found her way to stand-up comedy. She sat down with Sam Sanders to talk about her love of music and 'The Golden Girls,' growing up poor and making her sitcom, which was canceled after one season.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: #MeToo and Matt Lauer, Political Corruption, & Snoop Dogg Shenanigans Oct 11, 2019

New sexual assault allegations came out this week against prominent news, political and entertainment figures. A few years into the #MeToo movement, what are our expectations about whether or how men accused of sexual harassment and assault can return to public life? Also, crackdowns on political corruption in Chicago intensify, and cell phone use by audience members during performances has led to a heated debate in the theater world. Plus, Snoop Dogg's performance at a university this week causes controversy. Sam hosts this weekly wrap episode from member station WBEZ in Chicago. His guests are Greta Johnsen, host of the 'Nerdette' podcast and WBEZ weekend anchor and Dan Mihalopoulos, investigative reporter on WBEZ's Government and Politics team.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Writer And Poet Saeed Jones On 'How We Fight For Our Lives' Oct 08, 2019

In his memoir, 'How We Fight For Our Lives,' poet and writer Saeed Jones gets vulnerable as he details his coming of age as black and gay in suburban Texas. The former BuzzFeed editor sat down with Sam Sanders to give a glimpse of the stories behind his book, including those of his mother and grandmother, and one where he faced violence during a sexual encounter with another man.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Funk's Resurgence In Pop, The Future Of Title VII, Domestic Extremism Oct 04, 2019

As President Trump faces an impeachment inquiry his rhetoric is becoming more extreme, using words like "coup" and "civil war." At the same time, domestic terror experts are seeing an uptick in violent messaging from white nationalist groups, angry about the challenge to the president. Meanwhile, an upcoming Supreme Court case could decide whether Title VII employment protections apply to gay and transgender individuals. Plus, why funk music is making a resurgence in mainstream pop songs. Sam is joined by NPR national correspondents Leila Fadel and Kirk Siegler.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

John Legend On The Music Industry, His Career, Politics And Balancing It All Oct 01, 2019

John Legend seems to be one of the busiest people in the entertainment business. Apart from making music, in the past few years he has been all over TV, starring in NBC's live 'Jesus Christ Superstar' broadcast and producing multiple shows, including a new hip-hop competition show for Netflix. On top of it all, Legend remains engaged in political conversations and philanthropic causes. He sat down with Sam Sanders to talk about balancing it all and where his career has taken him. This episode includes language some listeners may find offensive.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Where The Climate Conversation Stands, Plus The Emmys And Diversity Sep 27, 2019

The debate over climate change continues to simmer after this week's climate strike demonstrations and 16-year-old Greta Thunberg's speech at the United Nations Climate Action Summit. One author is arguing for a vegan-by-day approach to reduce carbon emissions. Plus, are the Emmys making progress on diversity? Sam is joined by Bim Adewunmi and Nichole Perkins of the Slate podcast, 'Thirst Aid Kit.'
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Jonathan Van Ness Of 'Queer Eye' On Overcoming Trauma Sep 24, 2019

Jonathan Van Ness stepped into the spotlight in 2018 as a walking, talking bundle of energy, optimism and fierceness on the Netflix reboot of Queer Eye. But in his new memoir, Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love, Van Ness writes about how life wasn't always like that for him. He recounts growing up and dealing with hardships such as childhood trauma, depression, drug use, sexual compulsion, being diagnosed HIV-positive and more. Van Ness spoke to Sam Sanders about why he decided to write about it all, how he's dealt with troubling moments in his life and how Queer Eye has changed things. This episode includes discussion of sensitive topics and language that some listeners may find offensive.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: GM Workers On Strike, School Lunch Debt, Whitney Houston Hologram Sep 20, 2019

Union workers at General Motors went on strike this week for the first time in more than a decade. What does the United Autoworkers Union want for its members in the next contract with the automaker? As kids return to school, some will still struggle to afford lunches. What happens when students accrue meal debt — and what one woman in North Carolina is doing to alleviate the problem in her community. Plus why you might see a Whitney Houston hologram onstage next year. Sam is joined this week by Marketplace senior reporter Tracey Samuelson and independent journalist Sally Herships.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Best-Selling Author Malcolm Gladwell On 'Talking To Strangers' Sep 17, 2019

Journalist Malcolm Gladwell's best-selling books have explored a wide range of topics from decision making to 'The Tipping Point.' His latest work, 'Talking To Strangers,' takes a look at stories such as the Sandra Bland case, the trial of Amanda Knox and the Stanford rape case to explain why interactions with strangers often go wrong. Sam spoke to Gladwell about his new book at The George Washington University's Lisner Auditorium on Sept. 11, 2019.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Congress Returns To Washington, The Youth Vote, Plus Viral Food Videos Sep 13, 2019

Congress is back in session, but what are lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives prioritizing for the foreseeable future? Meanwhile, presidential campaigns are working hard to activate and engage youth voters, but how effective are their strategies? Plus, Sam and People Magazine's food editor dig into why one how-to video involving a deep-fried barbecue chicken-quesadilla-pizza hybrid went viral — and where online cooking videos are headed. Sam is joined in studio this week by NBC News White House reporter Geoff Bennett and Yahoo national politics reporter Brittany Shepherd.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

All About Instagram Influencers And How They've Changed Advertising Sep 10, 2019

Social media influencers have changed the marketing industry. Brands now pour billions of dollars into partnering with people who can reach audiences on platforms like Instagram and YouTube — whether they're advertising a handbag, a video game or a meal at a local restaurant. But what does it take to become an influencer, and what happens when your livelihood is tied to a platform that's not your own? Sam talks with an influencer, a reporter who covers the industry and an executive who helps influencers achieve stardom.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: 'Truth Hurts' Hits No. 1, McConnell On Gun Control, More Brexit Chaos Sep 06, 2019

Democratic Presidential candidates talked climate in a town hall this week. How does transportation factor into combating climate change? In the wake of several mass shootings, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is still yet to bring forward any legislation on gun control. We take a look at how President Trump may be influencing McConnell's thinking and actions. Plus, with all the yelling and shouting, what's going on with Brexit this week — and how are Brits feelings about it? Sam is joined in the studio this week by Curbed Urbanism editor Alissa Walker and producer Tom Dreisbach of NPR's Embedded podcast.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Danielle Brooks On The End Of 'Orange Is The New Black' Sep 03, 2019

Actress Danielle Brooks caught the eye of many Netflix viewers as Tasha 'Taystee' Jefferson in the streaming platform's original series Orange Is The New Black. All seven seasons of the show, which tells the fictional stories of women in prison, are streaming on Netflix now. Brooks sat down with Sam Sanders to talk about what it took to step into the role of Taystee and taping her final emotional scenes — plus, what kind of mother Brooks hopes to be.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Dan Levy On 'Schitt's Creek' And Greta Lee On 'Russian Doll' Aug 30, 2019

We're taking a break from the news this week to revisit conversations with stars from two shows nominated for Outstanding Comedy Series at this year's Primetime Emmy Awards on September 22. Dan Levy from Pop TV's 'Schitt's Creek' discusses creating the show with his father, comedic actor Eugene Levy, and Greta Lee from Netflix's 'Russian Doll' talks to guest host Julia Furlan about the show's New York identity. Back with our regular Weekly Wrap next week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Jia Tolentino On The Internet, Optimization And Other Late Capitalist Woes Aug 27, 2019

Writer Jia Tolentino has a keen eye for processing bits of internet absurdity and telling readers what they say about us. The 'New Yorker' staff writer's new book, 'Trick Mirror,' examines several different systems that impact our lives through a series of nine deeply researched essays. Tolentino and Sam Sanders discuss growing up in church, putting your life on the internet and what happens when your life becomes a quest for optimization.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: For GOP, Warning Signs With Women; Greenland Not For Sale Aug 23, 2019

President Trump wanted to buy Greenland but Denmark said no. Meanwhile, American fast food chains argued over who has the best friend chicken sandwich. Plus, 'Sporkful' host Dan Pashman stops by to taste test the latest plant-based "milks." Sam is joined by Los Angeles Times reporter Melanie Mason and KPCC's Leo Duran. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Vann Newkirk On How Black Farmers Were Robbed Of Their Land Aug 20, 2019

In a new cover story for The Atlantic, Vann R. Newkirk II tells the story of how the government systematically stripped black farmers of their land via illegal pressures levied through its loan programs, which created massive transfers of wealth from black to white farmers, especially in the period just after the 1950s. Follow Vann on Twitter @fivefifths. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: All Eyes On The Economy, Language And The Internet, Plus Hard Seltzer Aug 16, 2019

Markets had a roller coaster week as talks of an oncoming recession roiled the global economy. The White House wants social media companies to try to stop violence before it occurs, but what would that mean for privacy? Plus, how the internet is shifting the way we text and talk. Sam is joined by NPR White House reporter Ayesha Rascoe and Washington Post senior tech policy reporter Tony Romm.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: X Ambassadors' Sam Harris On Bridging Genres And Working With Lizzo Aug 13, 2019

X Ambassadors landed their first big hit with 2015's "Renegades," which made an appearance in a Jeep commercial, hit No. 1 on the Billboard Rock charts and went platinum in the U.S. and four other countries. The band, which often seems to fly under the radar, returned with its new album 'Orion' earlier this year. Sam Sanders sat down with the band's lead singer and songwriter, Sam Harris to find out what it's like to be one part of rock music's biggest acts while spanning genres.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Violence Against Latinos, Angry Online Men, Victoria's Secret's Future Aug 09, 2019

Americans continue to wrap their heads around last week's mass shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio. Our panel examines two big threads behind them: the history of violence against Latinos in the U.S. and websites where men often share violent views and hateful rhetoric. Plus, Victoria's Secret announced the hire of its first transgender model this week, but does the company still have the cultural cache to carry itself through an ongoing business downturn? Guest host Julia Furlan is joined by Tanzina Vega, host of WNYC's 'The Takeaway,' and BuzzFeed News senior reporter Ryan Broderick.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: HBO's 'Los Espookys' Star Ana Fabrega Aug 06, 2019

Stand-up comedian Ana Fabrega is the co-writer, co-show runner and one of the stars of HBO's breakout Spanish-language comedy 'Los Espookys.' Guest host Julia Furlan spoke with Fabrega about her brand of comedy, bringing a Spanish-language show to a mostly English-speaking audience and collaborating with Fred Armisen.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Unpaid Coal Miners, Looming Streaming Wars, Plus What's Up With The Fed? Aug 02, 2019

Coal miners in Harlan County, Kentucky, camped out on train tracks this week to protest lack of payment from a coal company that declared bankruptcy earlier this summer. Is this part of a larger trend in the coal industry? There's a lot of new streaming content coming down the pipeline, and it could mean more subscriptions for viewers. Plus, what does the Federal Reserve's decision to lower interest rates indicate about the economy? Sam is joined this week by NPR TV critic Eric Deggans and Code Switch correspondent Karen Grigsby Bates.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

An All-Politics Mid-Year Special Jul 30, 2019

As the race for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination heats up, New York Times White House correspondent Katie Rogers and Associated Press national political reporter Juana Summers join Sam for a look at the big threads running through politics right now.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Mueller Hearings, Critiquing Beyoncé, The State Of Low-Wage Work Jul 26, 2019

Former special counsel Robert Mueller testified in front of Congress this week on his investigation's findings, but how consequential was his testimony? Meanwhile the Internet had questions about who Beyoncé's song 'Brown Skin Girl' is for and the lack of East African musical artists on her new 'Lion King'-adjacent album 'The Gift.' Plus, what are the effects of surveillance and technology on low-wage workers? Guest host Julia Furlan is joined by TV Guide features editor Krutika Mallikarjuna and BuzzFeed World senior reporter and editor Hayes Brown.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Erin Lee Carr On 'I Love You, Now Die,' Sobriety And Her Father Jul 23, 2019

Erin Lee Carr's documentaries have probed some dark true crime stories. She's made films about the so-called "cannibal cop," the USA Gymnastics scandal, as well as a daughter accused of murdering her mother. Her latest, 'I Love You, Now Die' tells the story of Michelle Carter, who stood trial on involuntary manslaughter charges after she encouraged her boyfriend to kill himself over text message. Lee Carr talked to guest host Julia Furlan about the two-part documentary and the court case behind it, as well as her journey to sobriety and the legacy of her father, late New York Times columnist David Carr.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: 'Send Them Back,' New Asylum Rules, Storming Area 51 Jul 19, 2019

The U.S. announced new asylum rules this week, making asylum seekers who have passed through another country first ineligible to claim asylum at the U.S. southern border. Sam looks at how recent attacks on four Democratic congresswomen of color falls in line with President Trump's reelection strategy. Plus, why millions of people have responded to a Facebook event to "storm Area 51" and "see them aliens." Sam is joined in the studio by New York Times national correspondent Jennifer Medina and NPR correspondent Kirk Siegler.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

NPR's Life Kit: Choose The Best Diet For You Jul 16, 2019

Sam recently teamed up with reporter Allison Aubrey and NPR's Life Kit — a series of audio guides for navigating your life — to help you understand how to choose a diet approach that's right for you. More guides at npr.org/lifekit.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: The Biggest Stories Of 2019 (So Far) Jul 12, 2019

With the year more than halfway over, Sam and his guests are taking a look at some of 2019's driving narratives, including the future of the U.S. economy, shifts in the music industry and "cancel culture." Plus, Sam talks to a reporter at the U.S.-Mexico border near El Paso, Texas, about the mood amidst the immigration crisis. NPR chief economics correspondent Scott Horsley and NPR Music assistant editor Sidney Madden join Sam for this midyear edition of our weekly wrap.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Millennials And Money Jul 09, 2019

Financial journalist Hannah Seligson and Aminatou Sow from the podcast 'Call Your Girlfriend' join Sam to discuss why more and more millennials are financially intertwined with their parents — and why it's so hard to talk about. Listeners call in. Sends thoughts to samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Songs For Summer Jul 05, 2019

In this special episode, Sam presents a collection of interviews with musicians, featuring songs that are perfect for summer: the spacey soul-pop of Nick Hakim, the flowery, unhurried R&B of Syd and her band The Internet, and the eighties-colored pop of Emily King. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: 'Queenie' Author Candice Carty-Williams Jul 02, 2019

Her debut novel is one of this summer's most buzzed-about books. It's about race and dating, men and women, stereotypes and sexuality. Sam talks to Candice Carty-Williams about all that and more — and she reveals what she absolutely won't change in the coming television version of 'Queenie.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Before Stonewall, LGBT History, Student Loan Debt Jun 28, 2019

It's been 50 years since a group of LGBT people faced off against police at the Stonewall Inn in New York City's Greenwich Village. That moment is credited with launching the modern gay rights movement, but what was happening before the Stonewall riots? Plus, Sam talks to a student loan lawyer about managing debt and why some students find themselves in financial hardship. Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei of NPR's Throughline podcast join Sam for this edition of our weekly wrap.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Great Big DRAGisode Jun 25, 2019

Drag is having a moment ⁠— from RuPaul's Drag Race, to DragCon, to drag queens appearing on the big screen. In this episode, we walk through the history of drag, chat with the creative minds of the show that made drag mainstream, and talk to some drag performers about where drag is headed next.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: UFOs, Iran, Libra Jun 21, 2019

Capitol Hill's interest in aliens grows, tensions rise between Iran and the U.S. and Facebook has big plans for its new cryptocurrency? Plus, Sam goes deep on the breakup anthem of a generation: Robyn's "Dancing On My Own." Tweet feels @NPRItsBeenAMin.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Maya Erskine on 'Plus One' and 'PEN15' Jun 18, 2019

Maya Erskine has come a long way from the NYU experimental theater department where she met her 'PEN15' co-creator Anna Konkle. Now she's the star of a new romantic comedy that turns the genre on its head. She talks to Sam about 'Plus One' and how the second season of 'PEN15' might differ from the first. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Jon Stewart on 9/11 Fund, Veteran Homelessness, & Women's World Cup Jun 14, 2019

Former Daily Show host Jon Stewart went to Capitol Hill this week to ask Congress for a permanent 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. Veteran homelessness sees some improvement thanks to federal vouchers. Could a self-declared Socialist ever win a general election? Plus, a look at the #ChurchToo movement at the Southern Baptist Convention's annual meeting. Libby Denkmann, veterans and military reporter at NPR member station KPCC, and Tonya Mosley, co-host of the KQED podcast Truth Be Told, join Sam to wrap up this week in news.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Ryan O'Connell On 'Special' Jun 11, 2019

Coming out as gay was easy for Ryan O'Connell. Coming out as disabled — admitting the cause of his limp was cerebral palsy and not, as he lied, a car accident — was a lot harder. Ryan tells Sam how that experience became the basis for his Netflix show, 'Special.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Government Takes On Big Tech, What 'Intersectionality' Means, RIP iTunes Jun 07, 2019

The Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission are taking early steps into investigating tech giants Google, Apple, Facebook and Amazon. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the House of Representatives are looking into whether tech companies are too big. Plus, where the term "intersectionality" originated, what it means and why it's popping up in culture more and more. NPR Congressional reporter Kelsey Snell and Washington Post tech reporter Tony Romm join Sam for a look back at this week.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Writer Shelby Lorman Has Plenty Of 'Awards For Good Boys' Jun 04, 2019

Shelby Lorman has long been taking note of society's low standards for men on her popular Instagram account, whether they're manspreaders on the subway or Tinder dates who brag about reading feminist literature. Now she's turned those incisive illustrations and vignettes into a book that awards — and lambastes — those men. She sat down with Sam to share some "tales of dating, double standards, and doom" and to explain why rewarding men for doing "the barest of minimums" may not be so great.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Hollywood Versus Georgia, AirPods, 737 Max Troubles And Summer Travel May 31, 2019

Netflix, Disney, NBCUniversal and other Hollywood production companies say they may stop filming in Georgia if the state's recently passed, restrictive abortion law is upheld. With Boeing's 737 Max airplane still grounded, are travelers in for headaches when it comes to flying this summer? Plus why Apple's wireless AirPod headphones pose an environmental conundrum. ProPublica politics reporter Jessica Huseman and Quartz editor David Yanofsky join Sam for this week's roundup.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Writer, Actor, & Producer Lena Waithe May 28, 2019

Before she was the first black woman to win an Emmy for comedy writing, before her Showtime series 'The Chi', and before she was listed on the Time 100, Lena Waithe met Sam on a Saturday morning at NPR, and he bought her Doritos from the vending machine. Encore episode, first released in 2017. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Severe Weather And Climate Change, U.S. Migrant Deaths, VIP Dining May 24, 2019

A series of severe storms battered states across the country this week, but have communities drawn any connection between the weather and the effects of climate change? Meanwhile, the Trump administration admitted that a sixth migrant child died in U.S. custody within the past eight months. Plus, what are the perks of being a VIP diner at restaurants in the nation's capital? NPR reporter Nate Rott and KCRW reporter and host Steve Chiotakis join guest host Elise Hu.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Tech Hijacks Our Brains, Corrupts Culture, And What To Do Now May 21, 2019

NPR's Elise Hu steps in for Sam and sits down with Tristan Harris, a former design ethicist for Google, while listeners share their tech burnout stories and solutions. We also hear from WIRED senior writer Nitasha Tiku on what regulation is happening in the tech industry right now.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Eurovision Takes The Stage, Plus China Tariffs, Abortion Restrictions May 17, 2019

The U.S. this week expanded its tariffs on products from China to include items such as toys and sneakers. What will that mean for consumers? Alabama joined the list of states moving to impose restrictions on abortion. Plus, the glitter-infused, 42-country singing competition known as Eurovision is about to take the stage. Which country's song will take the cake? WBUR reporter Zeninjor Enwemeka and 'Endless Thread' podcast co-host Ben Brock Johnson join Sam in Boston.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: 'SNL' And 'The Other Two' Writers Sarah Schneider and Chris Kelly May 14, 2019

'SNL' season 42 started before the 2016 election and ended months after Donald Trump's inauguration. During that whirlwind year, the show was steered by co-head writers Sarah Schneider and Chris Kelly. After it, they created and wrote 'The Other Two' for Comedy Central, hailed by critics as one of 2019's best new comedies. It was recently renewed for a second season. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: 2020 Politics And More, Live From Des Moines, Iowa May 10, 2019

For this special live edition of the show, Sam is joined by NPR national correspondent Sarah McCammon and Iowa Public Radio host and reporter Clay Masters. To Sam, it seems the Democratic Party is running two different primaries: one for their progressive base and another for hypothetical moderate general election voters. Plus how are Iowans feeling about 2020?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Art In The Age Of Instagram May 07, 2019

The social media app Instagram is plastered with artwork, ranging from selfies inside Yayoi Kusama's mirrored rooms, to snapshots of the iconic "Mona Lisa" to short poems and colorful, inspirational messages. But how does the app affect how we engage with all these works — and how makers and museums create and share it? We talked with artists, curators and critics for a look at art in the age of Instagram.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: A Meatless Moment, How To Combat Homelessness, Containing The Measles May 03, 2019

Cases of measles have cropped up in almost two dozen states, and health experts are working to contain the disease. In San Francisco, a drama is unfolding between city officials, billionaires and residents on how to fight homelessness. Plus, are meatless burgers having a moment? Sam is joined by KPCC health care reporter Michelle Faust Raghavan and L.A. Times national correspondent Matt Pearce.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Comedian Shane Torres Apr 30, 2019

Shane's career caught fire when he famously defended Guy Fieri (and his shirt flames) in a bit on 'Conan.' Now, he talks to Sam about life on the road, why political comedy is hard, and their shared Texas roots. Shane's debut comedy album is called 'Established 1981.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Transgender Military Ban, Chunky 'Dad' Sneakers, Plus Who Uses Twitter? Apr 26, 2019

The Trump administration's ban on transgender people serving openly in the military is in effect, but how is it being felt? A new Pew study dives into who actually uses the social network Twitter. Plus, Sam calls up a fashion critic to find out why big, chunky sneakers made a comeback — particularly in the world of high fashion. Sam is joined this week by KUT reporter Ashley Lopez and Dallas Morning News reporter Lauren McGaughy.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Kathy Griffin's Life On the Blacklist Apr 23, 2019

Kathy Griffin isn't ashamed of being a comic who spills the tea. That's what she tells Sam she does — whether she's calling out celebrities like the Kardashians or taking photos with a bloody Donald Trump mask. Griffin is out with a new feature all about how her life changed after publishing that photo. It's called 'Kathy Griffin: A Hell of A Story.'
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: The Mueller Report, Notre Dame, 2020 Fundraising Apr 19, 2019

The U.S. Department of Justice released a redacted version of Robert Mueller's report on Russian interference in the 2016 election. Where do things stand now that it's out? After a massive fire destroyed portions of the centuries-old Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, billions of dollars have already been pledged to rebuild it. Plus, what does a historically black, all-male college's decision to begin accepting transgender men signal about cultural attitudes toward gender? Sam is joined this week by NPR lead political editor Domenico Montanaro and Associated Press national political reporter Juana Summers.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Adam Serwer On White Nationalism's American Roots Apr 16, 2019

The Atlantic staff writer Adam Serwer explains how racism and white nationalism were deeply embedded in America not just from its founding, but throughout the 20th century — and how one man corralled those ideas into a grand pseudo-scientific theory that influenced U.S. immigration policy and eventually Nazi Germany. His article about that man, Madison Grant, is called "White Nationalism's Deep American Roots." Email the show at samsanders@npr.org
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Tax Season Nears Its End, Plus Our Digital Lives After We Die Apr 12, 2019

The deadline to file your taxes is right around the corner. We ask a tax preparer how things have changed since the Republican-led tax overhaul. After Facebook introduced a new feature to help memorialize deceased users, Elise wonders what becomes of our online presences after we die. Plus what's going on at the U.S. southern border and what closing it could mean. Guest host Elise Hu is joined by KPBS reporters Jean Guerrero and Claire Trageser.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Anthony Carrigan On 'Barry' Apr 09, 2019

A few years after he was told he should quit acting, Anthony Carrigan shines as NoHo Hank on HBO's 'Barry.' He talks to guest host Elise Hu about working with Bill Hader, empathizing with the villains he plays, and finding peace with a condition that once made a career in Hollywood seem out of reach. 'Barry' airs Sunday nights on HBO. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Why Pop Songs Are Getting Shorter, Plus Climate Change, Opioids And CBD Apr 05, 2019

Al Gore is still leading the fight against climate change, but the topic is now also becoming an issue of racial justice. How will it play out in 2020? The fallout of the opioid crisis continues as lawsuits against opioid manufacturers pile up. Plus, how streaming services are reshaping the art form of the pop song. Sam is joined by Dan Zak of The Washington Post and Sarah Halzack of Bloomberg Opinion.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Karamo Brown On 'Queer Eye' & 'Embracing Purpose' Apr 02, 2019

Fab Fiver Karamo Brown takes Sam to church, so to speak, in this episode recorded in front of a live audience at Sixth & I in Washington, D.C. Sam and Karamo spoke about his new memoir, 'Karamo Brown: My Story of Embracing Purpose, Healing, and Hope.'
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Streaming Service Wars, Plus How Our Minds Handle The Unknown Mar 29, 2019

Apple's announcement that it would enter the competitive world of video streaming services has Sam wondering what the future of TV looks like. He's joined by 'Invisibilia' hosts Alix Spiegel and Hanna Rosin, who are digging into how our minds fill in gaps when something is unknown.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Comedian Mo Amer on the Refugee Experience, #MeToo And Touring The World Mar 26, 2019

Mo Amer joins Sam to talk about his experience emigrating from Kuwait to Houston and the almost-constant code-switching he did growing up. He also shares his thoughts about #MeToo in the comedy world. This episode contains explicit discussion about sexual issues pertaining to the #MeToo movement.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: March Madness, 2020 Dems Shift Left, Plus What #DoingThings Really Means Mar 22, 2019

With March Madness in full swing, the debate over whether the NCAA should compensate athletes resurfaces once again. 2020 Democratic presidential candidates continue to unveil progressive policy positions. Plus, how Outdoor Voices' #DoingThings slogan fits into a moment where lines between advertising and everyday life are increasingly blurry. Julia Furlan fills in for Sam, and she's flanked by Gene Demby of NPR's Code Switch and Arnie Seipel from NPR Politics.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: 'Russian Doll' Star Greta Lee Mar 19, 2019

"Sweet birthday baby!" Greta Lee talks about her role in the critically acclaimed Netflix show 'Russian Doll,' starring Natasha Lyonne as a woman who can't stop dying and reliving the same night. Greta tells guest-host Julia Furlan how the show was reincarnated from a failed NBC pilot, why she still struggles to avoid Asian-American stereotypes in television and what to expect from the HBO show she's developing.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: 737 MAXs Grounded, #FacebookDown, Photoshopped College 'Athletes' Mar 15, 2019

After a second fatal crash involving the Boeing 737 MAX airplane, countries around the world grounded the jet this week. Facebook and its suite of apps went offline for some time this week, leaving some social media users feeling disconnected. Plus, what one Ivy League-school graduate of color has to say about the college admissions scandal unveiled by the FBI. Julia Furlan is filling in for Sam this week, and she's joined by SELF editor Sally Tamarkin and WNYC reporter Arun Venugopal.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Andrew Rannells On 'Fumbling Toward' Adulthood And Broadway Fame Mar 12, 2019

Andrew Rannells has come a long way from Omaha, which he left in the late '90s to follow his dream of becoming a Broadway star in New York City. His new book, "Too Much Is Not Enough: A Memoir of Fumbling Toward Adulthood" tells the story of his early years there. He tells Sam about learning his dad died on a half-hearted date, getting drunk in piano bars with his best friend, Zuzanna, and how a failed audition for Rosie O'Donnell might have changed the course of his career.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: HIV Remission, Ride-Hailing Traffic Tax, What's Happening In Kashmir Mar 08, 2019

This week an HIV-positive person was declared in remission. That increased hopes for a cure, but what does it mean for infection rates overall? Ride-hailing services may be worsening traffic, and Los Angeles is considering a new tax to ease the congestion. Plus, what's going on in the India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir. Sam's guests are entertainment and sports journalist Audrey Cleo Yap and LA Times reporter Laura Nelson.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Phoebe Robinson of '2 Dope Queens' Mar 05, 2019

It's Tuesday. Phoebe Robinson is doing a lot. There's her acting and her second book, 'Everything's Trash, But It's Okay.' And on top of that, there's '2 Dope Queens,' the podcast turned HBO live show that she hosted with Jessica Williams. Sam catches up with Robinson on the comedy landscape in the #MeToo era, getting out of debt, and abreevs. You'll find out what that means. Tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: No Deal With North Korea, 'The Big Money', T-Pain Mar 01, 2019

It's Friday. Sam's "got money in the bank" with NPR correspondents Elise Hu and Eyder Peralta. President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un walked away from the negotiating table without a deal this week. Does the "no deal" option have the broadest support? Tensions remain high in Venezuela as President Nicolas Maduro tries to retain office amid a push for a change of government in the country. Plus, how a Native American tribe's massive casino-profit payouts shape the lives of its membership.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: 'Chewing Gum' And 'Black Earth Rising' Star Michaela Coel Feb 26, 2019

It's Tuesday. Michaela Coel first got the idea for her hit British sitcom 'Chewing Gum' while at drama school. Her later work as the creator, writer, and lead actress on the show earned her a BAFTA. She tells Sam about the transparency that comes from shaving her head and once embracing the Pentecostal faith. Tweet feels @NPRItsBeenAMin or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Jussie Smollett, Bernie Sanders, Oscars 2019, Plus 'Pool Chips' Feb 22, 2019

It's Friday. Sam is losing himself with HuffPost news editor Saba Hamedy and editor-in-chief of The Advocate Zach Stafford. 'Empire' actor Jussie Smollett was charged with filing a false police report in an alleged hate crime incident in Chicago last month. What does this development mean for other victims of hate crimes? Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders announced another bid for the presidency. Plus, Sam questions whether a big marketing budget is the secret to securing an Oscar.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Emily King's Change Of 'Scenery' Feb 19, 2019

It's Tuesday. Sam talks to musician Emily King about her new album, 'Scenery,' hailed by our NPR Music colleagues as "a precise-yet-fluid blend of '80s pop and rock, contemporary R&B and light jazz touches that, together, reveal a starry-eyed earnestness." They discuss the album, her slot at Coachella, and her journey away from the big city. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: With National Emergency Declaration, The Border Wall Saga Continues Feb 15, 2019

It's Friday. Sam will be seeing NPR's Susan Davis and Lulu Garcia-Navarro in the studio as they bid farewell to NASA's Opportunity Mars Rover. They're breaking down the issues raised as President Trump declares a national emergency in order to build the border wall. Also, what led more teachers — this time in Denver — to strike this week? Plus, Sue explains why she's over the TV show 'This Is Us' in a new segment.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Beyond Parkland: Oakland Kids Who Experience Gun Violence Every Day Feb 12, 2019

It's Tuesday. Sam talks with three Oakland teenagers about the gun violence they regularly encounter. They have been held up at gunpoint and known friends and mentors who have been shot. These Castlemont High School students are involved with a violence intervention program called Youth ALIVE! Through the program, they mentor middle school students on the dangers of guns.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Blackface In Virginia, 'El Chapo' Trial, How AOC Set The News Cycle Feb 08, 2019

It's Friday. Sam is putting on his best falsetto to sing along with NPR reporters Sarah Gonzalez and Julia Furlan. They're digging into peculiar details of the 'El Chapo' trial, as well as how changes to federal law could be the cause of a rise in sex trafficking. Plus, Sam chats with a listener who grew up in Virginia about racism in the state.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Angie Thomas Wants To 'Mirror' Young, Black Readers Feb 05, 2019

It's Tuesday. Sam chats with Angie Thomas, author of the best-selling young adult novel 'The Hate U Give' about her new book, 'On The Come Up.' They talk about both her books, about proving there's a huge audience for the black experience in young adult literature, and about moving on up — and why it's complicated. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Schultz Ponders The Presidency, 'Leaving Neverland' Stirs At Sundance Feb 01, 2019

It's Friday. Sam's got one hand in his pocket, and the other one is welcoming LA Times reporter Amy Kaufman and NPR's Karen Grigsby Bates to the studio. They dive into Howard Schultz's possible 2020 presidential run, the latest in controversial technology and the reaction to a Michael Jackson-focused documentary that premiered at Sundance. Plus, what's with the NFL's recent ratings increase? Clinton Yates from ESPN's 'The Undefeated' weighs in.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' Star Tituss Burgess Jan 29, 2019

It's Tuesday. Burgess is one of the stars of the hit Netflix show 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.' He gets real on playing an extrovert (as an introvert), going from rural Georgia to Broadway, and his love for 99-cent stores. Tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: TikTok, Climate Change & Fyre Fest Jan 25, 2019

It's Friday. Uh-oh, another episode with Sam, this time with NPR Reporter Vanessa Romo (@vanromo) and KPCC science reporter Jacob Margolis (@JacobMargolis), host of 'The Big One.' They cover the latest on the military transgender ban and a new climate change survey, while Sam digs deep on the social media app TikTok with help from Atlantic staff writer Taylor Lorenz (@TaylorLorenz). Email samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: A Broadway Star And Director On 'Rent: Live' Jan 22, 2019

It's Tuesday. Sam talks to 'Hamilton' star Brandon Victor Dixon and Broadway director Michael Greif about bringing the groundbreaking 1996 Broadway musical 'Rent' to live television — January 27 at 8 PM EST on FOX. They discuss the difference between stage and television performance, what made 'Rent' such an influential musical, and that time Brandon Victor Dixon spoke to Vice President-elect Mike Pence after a performance of 'Hamilton.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Las Vegas, Paradise & Hamberders Jan 18, 2019

It's Friday. Sam ooga-chakas this week with NPR National Desk correspondent Leila Fadel (@LeilaFadel) and 'The Nevada Independent' editor Jon Ralston (@RalstonReports). They talk the latest on Syria, Brexit, and a family's choice not to return to Paradise, Calif., following the wildfires there. Plus, is Marie Kondo really telling you to throw away your books?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Dan Levy On 'Schitt's Creek' Jan 15, 2019

It's Tuesday. Sam talks to Dan Levy about the comedy series he co-created with his father, actor Eugene Levy. They discuss why Dan has always had to pay his own way, choosing to make his character on "Schitt's Creek" pansexual, and what he doesn't miss about working as a host for MTV. And, uh, Beyonce may have come up, too. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: 'One Hot Mess' As Shutdown Continues, Plus Millennials And Burnout Jan 11, 2019

It's Friday. Sam is swimming through the latest in shutdown and border wall news with help from NBC White House correspondent Geoff Bennett and CNN senior political reporter Nia-Malika Henderson. Race is seemingly absent from that debate, even though it's a big predictor of voter attitudes on immigration. Plus, why BuzzFeed writer Anne Helen Petersen dubbed millennials the "burnout generation."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Actress Kathryn Hahn Talks Film 'Private Life' — And Her Own Jan 08, 2019

It's Tuesday: Sam talks with Kathryn Hahn — best known for her work in "Transparent" and "I Love Dick" — about her new film 'Private Life.' She stars alongside Paul Giamatti in the film, which is about a couple struggling to have a baby, and what happens when your life doesn't turn out the way you thought. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Nancy Pelosi's Return, Retail's 2019 Outlook, What's The Deal With CBD? Jan 04, 2019

It's Friday. Sam is talking to everyone here, specifically NPR Congressional correspondent Susan Davis and Bloomberg Opinion columnist Sarah Halzack. A new U.S. Congress was sworn in this week and Rep. Nancy Pelosi returned as Speaker of the House, but what will Democrats' legislative priorities be? It's a new year, and tariffs could mean an uncertain future for retail in the months to come. Plus, what is CBD, why is it everywhere, and is it legal?
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Encore: From 'Black-ish,' Jenifer Lewis: 'The Mother of Black Hollywood' Jan 01, 2019

It's Tuesday: In her memoir, "The Mother of Black Hollywood," Jenifer Lewis chronicles a career that has spanned decades, from Broadway to the hit ABC show Black-ish. Along the way, she played fictional moms to Tupac Shakur, Taraji P. Henson, and Whitney Houston. Jenifer talks to Sam about her long career, struggling with addiction and bipolar disorder, growing up in Missouri, and lying her way into the DNC in 2008. Originally released in November of 2017. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Year-End Wrap: Big Tech Reckoning, Identity Politics, & Yanny vs. Laurel Dec 28, 2018

It's Friday. Sam rings like a bell wrapping up the year in news with NPR reporter Elise Hu and The Wall Street Journal film industry reporter Erich Schwartzel. Plus a call to professor Lilliana Mason about how politics and identity have become entwined. It's topped off with the best things that happened to listeners all year. Tweet @ NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Samin Nosrat Of 'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat' Dec 25, 2018

It's Tuesday (and Christmas). Sam is in the kitchen with Samin Nosrat, author of the James Beard Award-winning book 'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat' and star of the Netflix show of the same name. She talks to Sam about adjusting to fame, how she became a chef, and what makes her pessimistic about the world right now.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Criminal Justice Reform, Teacher Strikes, & Dragons Dec 21, 2018

It's Friday. Sam is on an island in the sun with 'Los Angeles Times' education reporter Sonali Kohli (@Sonali_Kohli) and 'Broken Record' podcast producer Justin Richmond (@JustJRichmond). Plus a year-end music check in with NPR music critic Ann Powers. Happy Holidays from the IBAM fam! Tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Jennifer Lopez On Longevity And 'Second Act' Dec 18, 2018

It's Tuesday. Jennifer Lopez dishes to Sam on life lessons from her "Jenny from the Block" days to her starring role in the upcoming romantic comedy, "Second Act." Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Ron Elving On Impeachment, Investigations And More Political Qs Dec 14, 2018

It's Friday. Sam is joined by NPR political editor and correspondent Ron Elving and NPR breaking news reporter Camila Domonoske. Sam and Camila are looking for answers to all the latest and burning questions on the Mueller investigation and President Trump's political agenda. Then Sam catches up with a listener from Portland, Maine, who last year shared her story of hosting a family of asylum seekers from Burundi.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: PJ Morton Talks Christmas Classics, The Super Bowl And Stevie Wonder Dec 11, 2018

It's Tuesday. The Grammy-nominated solo artist and Maroon 5 keyboardist joins Sam to talk about his album "Christmas With PJ Morton," a soulful take on Christmas classics. They also discuss PJ's childhood and his father, the famous preacher and gospel singer Paul S. Morton; what makes a classic holiday song; working with Stevie Wonder; and Maroon 5 possibly playing the Super Bowl. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: George H.W. Bush, Explaining Brexit And Kevin Hart's Oscars Whirlwind Dec 07, 2018

It's Friday. Sam is counting the ways he could make this last forever with NPR's Nathan Rott and KPCC's Priska Neely. The United Nations is meeting in hopes of finding ways to slow climate change. Sam wonders if journalists are going too far in their remembrances of President George H.W. Bush, who died last week. Plus, Sam chats with the BBC's Rich Preston to break down exactly what's going on with Brexit.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Viola Davis On 'Widows'; Race And Power in Hollywood Dec 04, 2018

It's Tuesday: 'All Things Considered' host Audie Cornish joins Sam to share her conversation with Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis, recorded on stage at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. Audie and Viola talk about her new film, 'Widows,' and the harsh reality of being a black leading woman in Hollywood.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: GM, Awaiting Asylum, Stock Market Nov 30, 2018

It's Friday. Sam wishes he "had a rabbit in a hat with a bat and a six-four Impala." Instead he's joined by Quartz's David Yanofsky and the L.A. Times' Cindy Carcamo to dig into the latest happenings at the U.S.-Mexico border, as well as why we're not stopping to celebrate NASA's landing on Mars. Plus Sam chats with Marketplace's Kai Ryssdal about what the stock market's roller coaster means for the economy.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Comedian Guy Branum Wants To Change the Boys Club of Comedy Nov 27, 2018

It's Tuesday. Sam is live with comedian and writer Guy Branum at the Crawford Family Forum at KPCC in Pasadena, Calif. Branum went from his small, rural hometown to hosting his own talk show in Hollywood. He gets real with Sam on destroying the white, straight, male-dominated comedy world, challenging narratives about gay people in entertainment, and takes questions from the audience.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A Post-Thanksgiving Treat: Our Favorite Comedians Nov 23, 2018

It's Friday. Sam is revisiting some of our favorite moments and funniest guests: D'Arcy Carden from "The Good Place," "Saturday Night Live" alums Taran Killam and Sasheer Zamata, Timothy Simons from "VEEP," Natasha Rothwell from "Insecure," Jimmy O. Yang from "Silicon Valley" and Ike Barinholtz from "The Mindy Project."
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Encore: A Thanksgiving Special Nov 20, 2018

Sam and Dan Pashman, host of "The Sporkful," swap Thanksgiving horror stories with listeners — and one special guest. First recorded for Thanksgiving 2017. Episodes of The Sporkful at www.sporkful.com. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: California Fires, Drunk Raccoons, Beto Running Nov 16, 2018

It's Friday. Guest host Elise Hu tries to "work this whole" news thing out with Los Angeles Times health reporter Soumya Karlamangla and Snapchat's Good Luck America host, Peter Hamby. Soumya talks twin tragedies in her hometown of Thousand Oaks, Peter questions CNN's election night re-do, and Elise finds no great deception in this week's North Korea news.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Actor Steven Yeun On 'The Walking Dead,' Identity and 'Burning' Nov 13, 2018

It's Tuesday. Elise Hu steps in the hosting chair for Sam and gets deep with Yeun on why he's sick of talking about Asian identity, his time as Glenn Rhee on The Walking Dead, and his new South Korean thriller. Send thoughts about the episode to Elise at ehu@npr.org or tweet her @elisewho.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Democrats' Victory or Defeat, Amazon HQ2, Alien Spaceship Nov 09, 2018

It's Friday. Sam is getting in the zone with Linda Holmes and Glen Weldon of NPR's podcast "Pop Culture Happy Hour." This week, Sam is asking whether Democrats really won or lost in the midterms, and Linda and Glen are wondering if we should care about a so-called alien spacecraft and Alec Baldwin. Also Sam is digging into what Amazon's reported expansion to Crystal City, Va., might mean for people living there.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Heartbreak Led 'Broad City' Co-Star Abbi Jacobson On A Cross-Country Road Trip Nov 06, 2018

It's Tuesday. 'Broad City' co-star Abbi Jacobson's new book, 'I Might Regret This: Essays, Drawings, Vulnerabilities, and Other Stuff,' chronicles her cross-country road trip following a devastating breakup. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Processing Pittsburgh, Race And Politics, Cardi Vs. Nicki Nov 02, 2018

It's Friday. Sam is clapping along because he's happy to be in the studio with NPR "Morning Edition" host David Greene and journalist Audrey Cleo Yap. The 2018 midterm elections are just days away, and David shares some insights from conversations he's had with voters. Sam explains why race is the primary subtext of all U.S. politics right now. After the mass shooting at a synagogue in Pittsburgh, Sam chats with a man whose father was killed in a massacre at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin six years ago.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

From Aretha to Michael: Bruce Talamon on Photographing Black Musical Legends Oct 30, 2018

It's Tuesday: Sam talks with photographer Bruce Talamon on capturing famous black musicians in their most intimate moments from their living rooms to the stage. His photos are out in a new book: Bruce W. Talamon. Soul. R&B. Funk. Photographs 1972-1982.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Transgender Rights, Netflix Rom-Coms, Halloween Candy Oct 26, 2018

It's Friday. Sam's loneliness is killing him, so he's joined by podcast maker and journalist Julia Furlan and Stacey Vanek Smith, host of NPR's The Indicator podcast. The Trump administration may seek to limit the federal government's definition of "sex" — potentially allowing for the rollback of protections for transgender people under federal civil rights law. Plus, Sam looks at the success of Netflix's "Summer of Love" and wonders if it could revive the romantic-comedy genre in film.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

2018: The "Year Of The Woman?" Oct 23, 2018

Democrat Stacey Abrams and Republican Elizabeth Heng talk to Sam about running as women in 2018, and NPR political reporter Danielle Kurtzleben (@titonka) explains why even 2018's record number of female candidates won't mean parity.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Jamal Khashoggi, Research Hoax, & Nebraska's New Slogan Oct 19, 2018

Sam is joined by NPR's Kelly McEvers, host of Embedded, and Code Switch correspondent Karen Grigsby Bates. Questions continue to mount after the disappearance of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul. Plus, Sam digs into an elaborate hoax designed to discredit research in so-called "grievance studies" — what the hoaxsters call academic fields focused on identity. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: 'The Sentence' Documents Toll of Mandatory Sentencing Laws On A Family Oct 16, 2018

It's Tuesday: Cindy Shank was living a comfortable life at home with her three little girls and husband when one day the feds came knocking. They were there to arrest her for not telling the police about an ex-boyfriend's drug dealing several years prior. That's the story behind a new HBO documentary, 'The Sentence' - directed by Shank's brother, Rudy Valdez. Sam talks to Cindy and Rudy about documenting the impact on their family, a mother's love for her children, and how the film has brought politicians together on both sides of the aisle.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Climate Change, LeBron James, Squirrels Oct 12, 2018

It's Friday: Sam has waited hours for this weekly wrap with hosts of the WNYC podcast "Nancy," Tobin Low and Kathy Tu. A study from the United Nations says current efforts to fight climate change are not enough. Plus, Sam talks to a former lobbyist who is leading an effort to restore voting rights for felons in Florida — because he is one. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Coming Out Oct 09, 2018

To mark National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11, Sam examines the history, meaning and future of coming out with University of Nevada, Las Vegas professor Marcia Gallo and E. Patrick Johnson of Northwestern University. He also shares coming out stories from listeners and swaps stories with NPR film critic Bob Mondello. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Supreme Court, Homecoming, & Gender Fire Oct 05, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is up on his feet with Chris Geidner (@chrisgeidner), legal editor at Buzzfeed News, and Alina Selyukh (@alinaselyukh), business correspondent at NPR. They're talking about Supreme Court strategy, net neutrality, and Amazon's minimum wage. Plus, Sam talks to two high school girls who are changing the rules of homecoming royalty.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: Ike Barinholtz Tackles Thanksgiving Politics In 'The Oath' Oct 02, 2018

It's Tuesday: Sam talks to actor Ike Barinholtz about his new film 'The Oath,' which he wrote, directed, and stars in alongside Tiffany Haddish. They discuss Ike's big break as Morgan Tookers on 'The Mindy Project,' his own personal stuffing recipe, and playing basketball back home in Chicago with a local community organizer. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Ford-Kavanaugh Fall-Out, Midterms, Meghan Markle Sep 28, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is getting through the week with Juana Summers (@jmsummers), national political reporter for The AP, and Ben Terris (@bterris), feature reporter for The Washington Post. They're talking reaction to the Ford-Kavanaugh hearing, President Trump's lengthy news conference, and the SEC suing Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Plus, Sam talks to journalist and author Annie Lowrey about universal basic income and how it could work in the U.S. Don't forget: buy tickets to our next Los Angeles live show at kpcc.org/inperson
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: 'Insecure' Actress Natasha Rothwell Sep 25, 2018

It's Tuesday: Sam talks with Rothwell, who plays Kelli on the HBO show Insecure. Kelli is loud, proud and loyal — and she owns the screen when she walks on. Rothwell tells Sam about going from writing to acting and co-executive producing the show, auditioning for Saturday Night Live, plus, teaching high school drama. Get tickets to our Los Angeles live show with Guy Branum and a surprise guest at kpcc.org/inperson.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: Kavanaugh, MeToo, Bert & Ernie Sep 21, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is LIVING this week with NPR Weekend Edition Senior Editor Barrie Hardymon (@bhardymon) and NPR Washington Desk Editor Arnie Seipel (@NPRnie). They're talking about the allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, and other men who were shunned after sexual harassment allegations now saying, "what about me." Plus, as McDonald's workers protest sexual harassment, we talk to a waitress in Tuscon, Arizona, about the harassment she has experienced over her 17 years in the food service industry. Don't forget: buy tickets to our next Los Angeles live show at kp.cc/IBAM.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Interview: #MeToo Hits Elite Sports Sep 18, 2018

It's Tuesday: Sam talks to speed skater Bridie Farrell. Her mentor, former Olympian Andy Gabel, sexually abused her when she was a teenager. Sam also talks to journalist Alexandra Starr about the unique ways elite sports can groom children to be victims of abuse.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Onto the List." Sep 14, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is chatting this week with NPR Morning Edition editor Ashley Brown (@hey_hashbrown) and NPR political reporter Danielle Kurtzleben (@titonka). They're talking about the record number of women running ahead of the midterms and how that has Dems particularly excited for November, President Trump's denial about the death toll in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria, and the police officer who shot and killed Botham Jean in his own home. To top it off, a chat about how we're all focused on Washington when our local politics is what counts. Buy tickets to our next Los Angeles live show at kp.cc/IBAM.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Director Lauren Miller Rogen on 'Like Father' Sep 11, 2018

It's Tuesday: writer and director Lauren Miller Rogen talks to Sam about her new Netflix film, "Like Father," starring Kristen Bell and Kelsey Grammer, caring for a parent with Alzheimer's disease, and working with her husband, Seth Rogen.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Just Do It." Sep 07, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is dreaming about the news with NPR tech reporter Jasmine Garsd (@JasGarsd) and reporter and public radio host Lizzie O'Leary (@lizzieohreally) . They're discussing the Brett Kavanaugh hearings, the anonymous New York Times op-ed and teens using social media. Plus a chat about Nike's new Colin Kaepernick ad and what it says about corporations and "wokeness." Buy tickets to our next Los Angeles live show at kp.cc/IBAM.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Covering The Trump White House Sep 04, 2018

It's Tuesday: two White House reporters join Sam to talk about life behind the scenes covering the Trump administration: Katie Rogers of the New York Times (@katierogers) and Geoff Bennett of NBC News (@GeoffRBennett). Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org. Tickets to our October 2 live show in LA are at kp.cc/IBAM.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Emmy Nominees Rachel Brosnahan & Brian Tyree Henry Aug 31, 2018

It's Friday: Sam's taking a break from the news and revisiting two conversations from this year. First up, Brian Tyree Henry, who plays Afred "Paperboi" Miles on the hit FX show 'Atlanta.' He's up for outstanding guest actor in a comedy series at next month's 2018 Emmy Awards. Also nominated — for her starring role in 'The Marvelous Mrs Maisel' — is Rachel Brosnahan, up for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series. Back to our regular schedule next week. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org. Tickets to our October 2 live show in LA are at kp.cc/IBAM.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Singer/Producer Syd And 'The Internet' Aug 28, 2018

It's Tuesday: Sam talks to Syd, a breakout star of the hip-hop collective Odd Future, about her new band, The Internet, and about being free to bring herself to the music. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org. Tickets to our October 2 live show in LA are at kp.cc/IBAM.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Lying In Wait." Aug 24, 2018

It's Friday: Sam's feeling like a rockstar with New York Times reporter Caitlin Dickerson (@itscaitlinhd) and host of 'The News' from BuzzFeed, Julia Furlan (@juliastmi). They're discussing Michael Cohen, family separation, and another #MeToo story, but one with the usual gender roles reversed, plus a call to a Catholic mother processing the recent report of sexual abuse and cover ups in the church. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Handmaid's Tale' Director Kari Skogland Aug 21, 2018

It's Tuesday: Skogland is the only woman nominated for best directing (drama) at next month's Emmy Awards. She explains the care and craft behind directing such dark and intense material, and what Hollywood could do right now to increase the number of female directors. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "This Or That." Aug 17, 2018

It's Friday: Sam's in a material world with NPR correspondent Elise Hu (@elisewho) and Morning Edition host David Greene (@nprgreene). They're talking about North and South Korea, freedom of the press, Twitter, and the Queen of Soul. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

John Cho And Aneesh Chaganty On 'Searching' Aug 14, 2018

It's Tuesday: recorded live at The Line Hotel in LA, actor John Cho and director Aneesh Chaganty talk about their Sundance award-winning film, 'Searching,' the role of technology in our lives, and the responsibility and pressure of representation. Tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "We Are Done." Aug 10, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is kicking it with Texas Public Radio reporter Joey Palacios (@Joeycules) and NPR political reporter Asma Khalid (@asmamk). They're talking immigration, social media, and talking to kids about race. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'The Bold Type': Aisha Dee and Amanda Lasher Aug 07, 2018

It's Tuesday: actress Aisha Dee and showrunner Amanda Lasher join Sam to talk about their Freeform show, 'The Bold Type.' The show follows three young women living and working in New York City — wide-eyed youth dealing with race, sex, and politics, without the tired tropes. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "#MeToo and Moonves." Aug 03, 2018

It's Friday: Sam slows it down just a little this week with NPR Code Switch correspondent Karen Grigsby Bates (@karenbates) and NPR TV Critic Eric Deggans (@Deggans). They talk wildfires, Les Moonves, and QAnon. Tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

D.L. Hughley On 'How Not To Get Shot' Jul 31, 2018

'And Other Advice From White People.' That's his new book. D.L. also talks to Sam about infidelity, losing his father, the MeToo movement, and comedy in the era of Netflix.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Pay Them Off." Jul 27, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is young, scrappy, and hungry in our latest weekly wrap with NPR reporter Vanessa Romo (@vanromo) and Ira Madison (@ira), host of the podcast 'Keep It.' The three of them talk Cohen, crops, confessions and Comey. Get tickets to our Los Angeles live show with actor John Cho and director Aneesh Chaganty at nprpresents.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Uzo Aduba from 'Orange is the New Black' Jul 24, 2018

It's Tuesday: Aduba is best known for her role as Suzanne 'Crazy Eyes' Warren on Netflix's 'Orange is the New Black.' She talks to Sam about portraying mental illness on screen, having faith in your dreams, and the latest season of 'Orange.' Get tickets to our live show in LA with actor John Cho and director Aneesh Chaganty at nprpresents.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "They'll Be Fine." Jul 19, 2018

It's Friday: NPR Political Reporter Ayesha Rascoe (@ayesharascoe) and Stephen Thompson (@idislikestephen) of NPR Music and Pop Culture Happy Hour tell Sam what he wants to know about the week's news. Helsinki. Amazon Prime Day. The Shiggy. Get tickets for our live show in LA on July 30 with John Cho and Aneesh Chaganty at nprpresents.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Al Roker on 'Ruthless Tide' Jul 17, 2018

It's Tuesday: longtime NBC weatherman Al Roker has a new book about the most catastrophic flood in US history — the Johnstown flood of 1889, which killed more than 2,200 people in the Pennsylvania steel town. Roker says the story of that flood contains lessons about climate change, greed, American infrastructure, and the power of mother nature. Email samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "New World Disorder." Jul 13, 2018

It's Friday: Sam's shuffling through the street with NPR correspondents Ina Jaffe and Kirk Siegler this week. On the table: the President's travels and negotiations with NATO, Bett Kavanaugh, a call to a World Cup fan rooting for France, and a look at homelessness in Los Angeles and across the country. Get tickets for our live show in LA on July 30 with John Cho and Aneesh Chaganty at nprpresents.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Rainn Wilson On 'Permanent' And Life Post-'Office' Jul 10, 2018

It's Tuesday: Wilson's latest film, 'Permanent,' is about embracing the weirdness of your own family. He also opens up about religion, struggling as a young actor in New York and — of course — 'The Office.' Email samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "In The Balance." Jul 06, 2018

It's Friday: NPR's Sarah McCammon hops in the stu' for Sam this fourth of July weekend with NPR Political Reporter Danielle Kurtzleben (@titonka) and Marketplace Senior Reporter Kimberly Adams (@KA_Marketplace). They also chat about Scott Pruitt, trade wars, and American identity. Get tickets for our live show in LA on July 30 with John Cho and Aneesh Chaganty at nprpresents.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Amber Tamblyn Flips The Script on MeToo in 'Any Man' Jul 03, 2018

It's Tuesday: Actress Amber Tamblyn grew up in Los Angeles and is known for roles in Joan of Arcadia and the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Now, she's out with a new novel called Any Man, about a female serial rapist who targets men. She talks to Sam about the novel, her relationship with husband David Cross, and her work with the MeToo and Time's Up movements. Email samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Who Are We?" Jun 29, 2018

It's Friday: Sam is up on his feet this week with sports and entertainment journalist Audrey Cleo Yap (@audreycleo) and INTO Editor-In-Chief Zach Stafford (@ZachStafford). They talk about Anthony Kennedy, Chaka Khan, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and the US Census. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Joe Morton, From Stage To Screen And Back Again Jun 26, 2018

It's Tuesday: Joe Morton is now starring in the title role of the Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles production of Henry IV, and is known for his Emmy-award winning role as Eli Pope in Scandal. He talks to Sam about dropping out of college after being told his race would "color" a production, and making it in theater, film, and television. Tickets and information on Henry IV at shakespearecenter.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Game Of Chicken." Jun 22, 2018

Sam can't believe we made it this week with Haley Byrd (@byrdinator), congressional reporter for The Weekly Standard, and Lissandra Villa (@LissandraVilla), political reporter for BuzzFeed News. They talk through the most dominant story of the week: immigration. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Actress Niecy Nash on 'Claws' Jun 19, 2018

Best known for comedic roles in Reno 911, The Mindy Project, and HBO's Getting On, Niecy Nash stars in the TNT show Claws, a female-driven crime drama in its second season that one critic described as "Breaking Bad meets Steel Magnolias."She tells Sam how she used comedy to overcome tragedy in her personal life, and bringing a black, female anti-hero to TV. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "It Is Written." Jun 13, 2018

Sam esta bailando with Pop Culture Happy Hour host Linda Holmes (@lindaholmes) and NPR Politics Podcast host and congressional correspondent Scott Detrow (@scottdetrow). Catch up on the week's news: the World Cup, Trump administration immigration policy, and diversity in film criticism. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Stars of 'Vida' Jun 12, 2018

Sam chats with the two leads of the STARZ show 'Vida,' Melissa Barrera and Mishel Prada. They play two sisters who return home to their old east Los Angeles neighborhood after their mother's death. There, they have to grapple with family drama, gentrification, racism, and finding their identity. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Look Over There." Jun 08, 2018

We gon' be alright with Sam and these two guests this week: Morning Edition and Up First host Steve Inskeep and CNN Politics Senior Writer Juana Summers. The real Puerto Rico death toll, insulin prices, and baked beans, plus trade talk with Soumaya Keynes of The Economist. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Free Speech vs. Hate Speech Jun 05, 2018

Roseanne's tweet. NFL players kneeling. The President blocking people on Twitter. These stories are all about the same thing: what is free speech? Who gets to decide? And what happens when one person's speech makes another person feel unsafe? Sam talks to Nadine Strossen, a law professor and former president of the American Civil Liberties Union, about her new book, Hate: Why We Should Resist It With Free Speech, Not Censorship.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Live in Chicago with Samantha Irby Jun 01, 2018

Here's a break from the news: Comedian and author Samantha Irby joins Sam live on stage at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music in partnership with WBEZ. Her recently re-published book is called "Meaty." Plus special guest Jennifer White drops by to dish about two famous Chicagoans — the subjects of WBEZ's "Making Obama" and "Making Oprah" podcasts. Back with our regular weekly wrap next Friday.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Comedian and "Opposition" Host Jordan Klepper May 29, 2018

The comedian talks to Sam about running his own show, lampooing fringe news, and why the nicest parts of him are from Kalamazoo, Michigan. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "On Bended Knee." May 25, 2018

Sam is struck by two guests this week: Los Angeles Times reporter Laura Nelson, and senior writer at ESPN's "The Undefeated," Clinton Yates. They cover new NFL rules, Ramadan, North Korea, and lynx. Or lynxes. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

BØRNS: Glam, Sunshine, and 'Electric Love' May 22, 2018

Sam talks to singer Garrett Clark Borns in his Los Angeles studio on going from small town Michigan to playing at Coachella - TWICE. BØRNS' new album, Blue Madonna, is out now. Email samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Just Say It." May 18, 2018

Sam's right over here with NPR reporters Vanessa Romo and Brakkton Booker wrapping up the week in news: one year into the Mueller investigation, the royal wedding, and upcoming Supreme Court decisions on gerrymandering. Plus, the best things that happened to listeners all week. Tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels or email samsanders@npr.org.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

How Ruth Bader Ginsburg Became 'Notorious RBG' May 15, 2018

In 'RBG,' filmmakers Julie Cohen and Betsy West chronicle the legacy of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. NPR's legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg joins the conversation with Sam, Betsy, and Julie. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Where's My Money?" May 11, 2018

Sam's voice takes you there this week, with NPR Editor Arezou Rezvani and Los Angeles Times national correspondent Matt Pearce. Plus, the Iran Nuclear Deal, wage stagnation, and 'This Is America.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Jimmy O. Yang on 'Silicon Valley' and 'How To American' May 08, 2018

The comedian and actor talks to Sam about his immigrant experience and making it in Hollywood, which he writes about in a new book, "How To American: An Immigrant's Guide To Disappointing Your Parents." Jimmy stars as immigrant programmer Jìan-Yáng on the HBO comedy "Silicon Valley." Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Check The Tape." May 04, 2018

Sam lets the sunshine in with NPR Code Switch correspondent Karen Grigsby Bates (@karenbates) and NPR Embedded producer and reporter Tom Dreisbach (@TomDreisbach). Also Rudy Giuliani, the Broadway musical "Hair," meatballs, and a call to Puerto Rico. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Political 'Circus' of 2018 May 01, 2018

Political strategists Mark McKinnon and Mike Murphy join Sam to talk about the 2018 midterms and Mark's Showtime series 'The Circus,' which he co-hosts. Mike is a Republican who's worked for John McCain, Jeb Bush, and Mitt Romney. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels. Tickets for our May 15 show in Chicago are at wbez.org/events.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "He Is Perfect." Apr 27, 2018

Kanye's tweets, Emmanuel Macron's state visit, and Bill Cosby's guilty verdict, plus latest on Facebook and user privacy. From member station KQED in San Francisco, NPR Silicon Valley correspondent Aarti Shahani (@aarti411) and KQED senior editor Tonya Mosley (@TonyaMosley) join Sam to talk about the week that was. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Meg Wolitzer on "The Female Persuasion" Apr 24, 2018

Wolitzer's new novel is about women, misogyny, ambition, death, and the disillusionment of growing older. It's on virtually every must-read list this year, and feels so perfectly forged for the current moment that the Washington Post called Meg 'the novelist we need right now.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Who's In Charge?" Apr 20, 2018

That Philadelphia Starbucks, Bey-chella, Nikki Haley, and a spotlight on Cuba and its new president. NPR Reporter and Codeswitch host Shereen Marisol Meraji (@RadioMirage) and Morning Edition producer Justin Richmond (@JustJRichmond) join Sam to talk about the week that was. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

D'Arcy Carden From 'The Good Place' Apr 17, 2018

Actress and comedian D'Arcy Carden plays Janet - the AI personal assistant - on NBC's 'The Good Place.' But she still makes time to perform at the Upright Citizens Brigade theatre in Los Angeles, where Sam got a chance to see her perform. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "On The Edge." Apr 13, 2018

Facebook, Syria, Michael Cohen, and voters. NPR's Sarah McCammon (@sarahmccammon) is in for Sam, and she's joined by All Things Considered host Mary Louise Kelly (@NPRKelly) and NPR political correspondent Asma Khalid (@asmamk) to talk about the week that was. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'This Is Us' Star Chrissy Metz Apr 10, 2018

Chrissy Metz currently plays Kate on the hit NBC show 'This Is Us.' But for years, she was an agent doing auditions on the side, just trying to catch a break. And in her new memoir, 'This Is Me: Loving the Person You are Today,' Chrissy relays the lessons she learned along the way, with some humor and grace sprinkled in. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Been Here Before." Apr 06, 2018

A migrant caravan, Scott Pruitt, James Brown, edible glitter, and 'Jesus Christ Superstar.' NPR 'Embedded' host Kelly McEvers (@kellymcevers) and Washington Post reporter Wesley Lowery (@WesleyLowery) join Sam to talk about the week that was, plus an in depth look at police shootings of unarmed people. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Tim Robbins on HBO's 'Here and Now' Apr 03, 2018

The Oscar-winning actor stars in a new HBO drama that follows one multicultural family's struggle to navigate American life post-election-2016. Tim also talks about his work in the theater, and why he'll never get tired of talking about 'The Shawshank Redemption.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "The Long Shadow." Mar 30, 2018

Hacking for bitcoin, Stormy Daniels, privacy on Facebook, and sliceable ketchup. NPR Business Reporter Alina Selyukh (alinaselyukh) and Vanessa Romo (@vanromo), reporter for NPR's The Two-Way blog, join Sam to talk about the week that was. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Zach Braff and Alex Blumberg on 'Alex, Inc.' Mar 27, 2018

Zach Braff's character in the new ABC sitcom 'Alex, Inc.' is based on Alex Blumberg, who founded the podcast company Gimlet Media, and chronicled it in the podcast 'Start Up'. They talk to Sam about how the new TV show came to be. Follow @zachbraff, @abexlumberg, and @Gimletmedia. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Data. Data. Data." Mar 23, 2018

Cambridge Analytica, sanctuary cities, Blockbuster, and the Backstreet Boys. New York Times immigration reporter Caitlin Dickerson (@itscaitlinhd) and David Greene (@nprgreene), host of NPR's Morning Edition and Up First, join Sam to talk about the week that was. Plus, a call to a listener in Finland, and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Jennifer Palmieri On 2016 And Lessons For The First 'Madam President' Mar 20, 2018

Hillary Clinton's former Communications Director dishes about the 2016 campaign and its aftermath in a new book written as an open letter to the future first female president, "Dear Madam President: An Open Letter to Women Who Will Run The World." Jennifer Palmieri (@jmpalmieri) talks to Sam about the rigors of the campaign, how voters responded to Hillary Clinton's candidacy, crying at work, working in the Obama White House, and a confrontational post-election meeting with Kellyanne Conway. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Epic Eye Roll." Mar 16, 2018

The revolving door at the White House, an irritated Chinese reporter, "norms- engineering," and an unexpected guest at a pro-hockey game. NPR's Invisibilia hosts Alix Spiegel (@aspiegelnpr) and Hanna Rosin (@HannaRosin) join Sam to talk about the week that was. Plus a call to a mom in Newtown, Connecticut, along with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Momofuku Chef David Chang's 'Ugly Delicious' Food Mar 13, 2018

Fried butterball potatoes. Tapioca lo mein. Crispy pork belly. Those are just a few of the items on the menu at majordōmo, the new restaurant from chef David Chang of Momofuku fame. Sam met up with David at majordōmo in Los Angeles, where they talked food, racial identity, and his new Netflix show, 'Ugly Delicious.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "It's All Connected." Mar 09, 2018

Tariffs, day-cares, and laughing Alexas. Senior early childhood reporter for KPCC Priska Neely (@priskaneely) and NPR Business Correspondent Sonari Glinton (@Sonari) join Sam to talk news and culture of the week. Plus a call to a gun owner in Orlando, FL, and the best things that happened to our listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Atlanta' Star Brian Tyree Henry Mar 06, 2018

He plays Alfred "Paper Boi" Miles on FX's Atlanta. He's also starred in the original Broadway cast of The Book of Mormon and HBO's Vice Principals, and earned an Emmy nomination for his guest-starring role on NBC's This Is Us. Sam talks to Brian about his path to acting, the success of Atlanta, the city of Atlanta, show creator Donald Glover, how his mother figures into the character of Paper Boi, and his good friend Sterling K. Brown. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "No, You Can't." Mar 02, 2018

It's Sam's first show in LA, and it's Oscar weekend. Variety/Access Live contributor Audrey Cleo (@audreycleo) and Wall Street Journal reporter Erich Schwartzel (@erichschwartzel) join Sam to talk about the Academy Awards, the state of the film industry, and more news and culture of the week. Plus a call to a listener in Oakland, CA, and the best things that happened to our listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Black Panther' with Glen Weldon and Evan Narcisse Feb 27, 2018

Sam talks about the success of Black Panther and where Hollywood goes next with writer Glen Weldon (@ghweldon) from NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour and Evan Narcisse (@EvNarc), who's writing Rise of the Black Panther for Marvel Comics. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap LIVE: "Kids Will Lead." Feb 23, 2018

The Parkland shooting, a wrap on the 2018 Olympic Games, and the mood at the Conservative Political Action Conference. Sam looks back at the week's news and more with PBS White House Correspondent Yamiche Alcindor (@Yamiche) and VICE News correspondent Evan McMorris-Santoro. (@EvanMcS). Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels. And PS — thanks for all the dog pics! Keep 'em coming.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Journalist Ann Curry On Dramatic Reunions, #MeToo, and 'Today' Feb 20, 2018

Ann Curry, journalist and former host of Today on NBC, hosts a new PBS series called We'll Meet Again, documenting dramatic reunions of people whose lives crossed at pivotal moments. She talks to Sam about the series, the MeToo movement, and the reunion story in her own life. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "All Over Again." Feb 16, 2018

Music from Black Panther, the Pyeongchang Olympics, and a new champion show-dog. Sam looks back at the week's news and more with NPR International Correspondent Elise Hu (@elisewho) and NPR editor Barrie Hardymon (@bhardymon). Plus music from Nick Hakim (@nick_hakim). Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Love and Marriage in Mumbai' Feb 13, 2018

In honor of Valentine's Day this week, a look at what happens AFTER you get married. Sam talks to PBS reporter and author Liz Flock about her new book, The Heart is a Shifting Sea: Love and Marriage in Mumbai. Liz spent about 10 years following three Indian couples in both love and arranged marriages. In a country that is rapidly changing, how do those changes impact marriage? Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Hey, Big Spender." Feb 09, 2018

Space Jam, another government shutdown, military parades, and stock shock. Sam looks back at the week's news and more with New York Times reporter Sopan Deb (@SopanDeb) and comedian and Fake the Nation host Negin Farsad (@NeginFarsad). Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Congressman Beto O'Rourke Feb 06, 2018

Beto O'Rourke (@BetoORourke) is a rising star in the Democratic party hoping to unseat Republican Senator Ted Cruz, which would make him the first Democrat to win statewide office in Texas since 1994. And he's trying to do it without party consultants, pollsters, and PAC money. O'Rourke talks to Sam about Texas politics, immigration policy, campaigning, how he got into public service, the President's State of the Union address, and Kit-Kats. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Did It Matter?" Feb 02, 2018

Grammys Gonna Grammy, the State of the Union, and the state of pro football on Super Bowl weekend. Sam looks back at the week's news and more with NPR reporter Vanessa Romo (@vanromo) and Stephen Thompson (@idislikestephen) of NPR Music and Pop Culture Happy Hour. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenaMin with feels.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Carrie Brownstein On The 'Portlandia' Final Season Jan 30, 2018

Carrie Brownstein was a member of indie rock band Sleater-Kinney for years before starring in and co-executive producing Portlandia. But the award-winning IFC show is taking its final bow this spring. Carrie chats with Sam about working with co-star Fred Armisen, the show's satirizing of liberals, and being a riot grrrl. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "The Whole Map." Jan 26, 2018

Laurel Wamsley (@laurelwamsley), reporter for NPR's breaking news blog The Two-Way, and NPR Business Reporter Alina Selyukh (@alinaselyukh) join Sam to talk about the week that was, from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, to the fallout over the abuse of female gymnasts by Larry Nassar. Also a phone call to a listener in San Francisco, and a look at the relationship between President Trump and big tech. It's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

#MeToo in Politics: Then and Now Jan 23, 2018

Sam talks with NPR legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg and PBS White House Correspondent Yamiche Alcindor about sexual assault and harassment in politics and #MeToo now and in the 1990s, when Nina broke the Anita Hill story. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "War of Worlds." Jan 19, 2018

Recode Senior Editor Tony Romm (@TonyRomm) and CNN Politics Senior Writer Juana Summers (@jmsummers) join Sam to talk about the week that was: Hawaii's ballistic missile alert, the government shutdown, a renewed debate over net neutrality, and a report on White House staff turnover. Also three things you're not hearing about Puerto Rico and a call to a listener in Anchorage, Alaska. It's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

New Yorker Editor Kevin Young on 'Hoaxes, Post-Facts, and Fake News' Jan 16, 2018

Young, poetry editor of The New Yorker, has written a book about 'fake news' before President Trump co-opted the term. It's called "Bunk: The Rise of Hoaxes, Humbug, Plagiarists, Phonies, Post-Facts, and Fake News." He talks to Sam about the book, as well as Prince, why hoaxes are so tied up with race, Donald Trump and P.T. Barnum, editing poetry at The New Yorker, black twitter, and growing up in Nebraska. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Forests And Trees." Jan 12, 2018

Washington Post reporter Dan Zak (@MrDanZak) and New York Times White House correspondent Katie Rogers (@katierogers) join Sam to talk about the week that was: the President's vulgar language, a 200-page report on Russia's hacking of the 2016 election, and how the Trump administration might change US policy on nuclear weapons, plus a call to a listener from El Salvador about her temporary protected status and the best things that happened to our listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Bachelor' Producer Elan Gale Thinks 'You're Not That Great' Jan 09, 2018

"You're Not That Great" is a self-up send-up by Gale, Executive Producer of The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. He talks to Sam about the book, The Bachelor, Christian rock, embracing negative emotions, and his struggle with addiction. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Resolve To Unplug." Jan 05, 2018

NPR's All Things Considered and Embedded host Kelly McEvers (@kellymcevers) and Codeswitch reporter Karen Grigsby Bates (@karenbates),join Sam to talk about the rift between President Trump and Steve Bannon and a look on what's ahead for immigration in 2018. All that plus a call to a listener in Virginia Beach and the best things that happened to our listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Congressman Will Hurd on Party Divisions, the GOP, and 2018 Jan 02, 2018

Texas Republican Will Hurd represents the 23rd district — a sprawling, diverse district bigger than dozens of states — which Hillary Clinton won in 2016. Sam talks to Congressman Hurd about tax cuts, health care, San Antonio, working for the CIA, and what 2018 might hold for the GOP. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A Special Year-End Edition Dec 29, 2017

Pop Culture Happy Hour host Linda Holmes (@nprmonkeysee), NPR congressional correspondent Susan Davis (@DaviSusan), and R. Eric Thomas (@oureric), playwright and 'person on the internet' join Sam to talk about the year that was. Plus year-end music highlights with Radio Menea host Verónica Flores (@veroconplatanos) and NPR Music's Rodney Carmichael (@rodneyology). Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Stuart Murdoch and Sarah Martin of Belle And Sebastian Dec 26, 2017

The indie band Belle and Sebastian is out with a trio of EPs called "How To Solve Our Human Problems." Members Stuart Murdoch and Sarah Martin talk to Sam about the new music, the songwriting process, life on the road, and why they still clean their own studio after 20 years. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "They're Not Done." Dec 22, 2017

NPR reporter Camila Domonoske (@camilareads) and Lauren Ober (@OberandOut), host of WAMU's The Big Listen, join Sam to talk about the week that was. With the holiday weekend upon us, the GOP got their tax bill but the future of CHIP and DACA is unclear — plus a call to a politically divided couple in Connecticut and a very special edition of the best things that happened to our listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel' Star Rachel Brosnahan Dec 19, 2017

You might know actress Rachel Brosnahan from her supporting role on Netflix's House of Cards a few years back. Now she's back as the fast-talking 1950s housewife Midge Maisel on the new Amazon show, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, from Gilmore Girls creator Amy Sherman-Palladino. The role earned her a Golden Globe nomination for best actress in a TV comedy. She and Sam discuss what the show says about women, especially in light of the #MeToo movement, and much more. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Tell It All." Dec 15, 2017

Bloomberg retail reporter Sarah Halzack (@sarahhalzack) and Derek Thompson (@DKThomp), writer and senior editor at The Atlantic, join Sam to talk about the week that was: Disney acquiring Fox, net neutrality, #MeToo, and the Alabama Senate race. Plus a call to a listener finishing up her first semester of college, a look at why the economy seems to be doing so well, and the best things that happened to our listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Matt Bellassai on Viral Fame, Internet Culture, and Why 'Everything Is Awful' Dec 12, 2017

Professional pessimist Matt Bellassai (@MattBellassai) launched a comedy career doing viral videos for Buzzfeed. Now he's got a new book and performs live across the country. He and Sam talk about the book, Everything Is Awful, and about how his video series became a hit, being an awkward kid, how he came out in college, embracing his sexuality as a part of his identity, and when the Internet used to be better. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Up In Smoke." Dec 08, 2017

Sarah Kliff (@sarahkliff), Vox senior policy correspondent and host of the Vox podcast 'The Impact,' and NPR film critic Bob Mondello (@Bob_Mondello) join Sam to talk about the week that was: raging wildfires in southern California, the resignation of Sen. Al Franken, and TIME Magazine naming "The Silence Breakers" people of the year – along with a call to a longtime listener in Alabama. They also discuss the health care implications of the GOP tax plan. It's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Journalist Dan Rather on Trump, Patriotism, and 'What Unites Us' Dec 05, 2017

Veteran journalist Dan Rather thinks the U.S. is facing an 'existential crisis,' but one the country can survive. His new book is called What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism. Sam and Dan talked in front of an audience at the Brooklyn Academy of Music last month. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Keep It Coming." Dec 01, 2017

Sam is joined by Jody Avirgan (@jodyavirgan) from 538 Politics and ESPN's '30 for 30' podcast series, along with Brittany Luse (@bmluse), co-host of Gimlet Media's 'The Nod,' to talk about the week that was: Michael Flynn, Republican progress on taxes, net neutrality, even more sexual assault firings, along with a call to a listener currently in Puerto Rico. It's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

From 'Black-ish,' Jenifer Lewis: 'The Mother of Black Hollywood' Nov 28, 2017

In her new memoir, "The Mother of Black Hollywood," Jenifer Lewis chronicles a career that has spanned decades, from Broadway to the hit ABC show Black-ish. Along the way, she played fictional moms to Tupac Shakur, Taraji P. Henson, and Whitney Houston. Jenifer talks to Sam about her long career, struggling with addiction and bipolar disorder, growing up in Missouri, and lying her way into the DNC in 2008. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

A Thanksgiving Special Nov 23, 2017

Dan Pashman, host of the Sporkful (@TheSporkful), and a surprise special guest join the show — and three listeners share Thanksgiving horror stories. Then, as always, the best things that happened to our listeners all week. We're back with a deep dive on Tuesday, and our regular wrap on the week next Friday. As always, you can reach the show at samsanders@npr.org or @NPRItsBeenAMin. Tweet at Sam @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Bill Nye On Fame, Family, and How He Became The 'Science Guy' Nov 21, 2017

The one and only Bill Nye the Science Guy (@BillNye) is the subject of a new documentary all about his life. He talks to Sam about the film, how he thinks fame has changed his brain, a troubling degenerative disease that afflicts his family, and his advocacy of climate science. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Death And Taxes." Nov 17, 2017

Guest host Sarah McCammon (@sarahmccammon) talks with NPR newscaster Korva Coleman (@KorvaColemanNPR) and NPR Weekend Edition Sunday host Lulu Garcia-Navarro (@lourdesgnavarro) about the week that was: the status of the tax plan turned healthcare bill in Congress, sexual assault accusations against U.S. Senate candidate Roy Moore and Senator Al Franken, a shooting in California, and the butterball turkey hotline. They also call a listener in Australia, and it's all capped off by the best things that happened to listeners all week. Sam will be back next week for a special Thanksgiving edition of the show, which we'll release on Thursday morning. As always, you can reach the show at samsanders@npr.org or @NPRItsBeenAMin. Tweet at Sam @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Comedian Iliza Shlesinger on 'Girl Logic' Nov 14, 2017

Iliza Shlesinger's (@iliza) new book, "Girl Logic: The Genius and the Absurdity," is her take on how women think. She and Sam talk about the book, her dog, Blanche; the party goblin in us all, growing up in Texas, getting her start in comedy, and publishing her book with what was formerly Weinstein Press. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "People Be Votin.'" Nov 11, 2017

Public radio reporter and Marketplace contributor Sally Herships (@sherships) and WNYC Reporter Sean Rameswaram (@rameswaram) join Sam to talk about the week that was: Election Day, an update on the Paradise Papers, and the Texas shooting, along with a call to a listener in Los Angeles. It's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Taking Stock of Trump, One Year Since His Election Nov 07, 2017

Washington Post reporter Jenna Johnson (@wpjenna) and Michael D'Antonio, author of the biography "The Truth About Trump," join Sam to talk about the President one the year since he was elected. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Truth Will Out." Nov 03, 2017

NPR Asia Correspondent Elise Hu (@elisewho) and Weekend Edition Editor Barrie Hardymon (@bhardymon) join Sam to talk through the week that was: Facebook and Twitter executives testifying in front of Congress, President Trump's Asia trip, the resignation of NPR Senior Vice President of News Michael Oreskes — plus a check-in with a listener who just moved to Antarctica. It's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Author Daniel Alarcón On His New Book And The Immigrant Experience Oct 31, 2017

Daniel Alarcón's (@DanielGAlarcon) new book of short stories, "The King Is Always Above The People," deals closely with immigration and the Latino experience. Alarcón talks to Sam about his own life immigrating from Peru to the U.S. at a young age, the Latino diaspora, and reinventing oneself in a new place. Though Alarcón didn't intend for it to be political, his book gets at what it means to be an immigrant in today's political climate. Alarcón is also host of NPR's Spanish-language podcast, Radio Ambulante. E-mail the It's Been A Minute team at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Just Say No." Oct 27, 2017

NPR White House correspondent Tamara Keith (@tamarakeithNPR) and All Things Considered host Ari Shapiro (@arishapiro) join Sam to talk through the week that was: President Trump's speech on opioid addiction, the internal politics of the GOP, the surprise return of James Comey on Twitter — plus a check-in with a listener in Houston and our usual game of 'Who Said That.' It's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Ashley Nicole Black From "Full Frontal" On Comedy, Improv, and Bridging Political Divides Oct 24, 2017

Ashley Nicole Black (@ashleyn1cole) gave up pursuing a PHD to make it in comedy. This year she won an Emmy for her work on "Full Frontal With Samantha Bee." She talked to Sam about Savage Garden, why the Chicago comedy scene is great for aspiring comics and tough for people of color, developing her own comedy style, landing a job on "Full Frontal" and making the transition from writer to correspondent, and why she says improv could help people bridge political divides. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "All Of Us." Oct 20, 2017

New York Magazine's Olivia Nuzzi (@Olivianuzzi) and The Atlantic's McKay Coppins (@mckaycoppins) join Sam to talk through the week that was: the healthcare subsidy battle in Congress, the fallen soldiers in Niger, the social media outpouring over #MeToo — plus a call to a listener at the University of Florida where white nationalist Richard Spencer spoke this week. That's all capped off with the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback. Follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders and producers Brent Baughman @brentbaughman and Anjuli Sastry @AnjuliSastry.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Taran Killam On His New Film, Leaving SNL, And That Time Trump Hosted Oct 17, 2017

SNL alum Taran Killam talks to Sam about his new action-comedy mockumentary Killing Gunther, which he directed and stars in alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. They also discuss Wild 'N Out, Taran's role in Hamilton, the challenges of being a first-time director, why and how he left SNL a year earlier than he expected, what made Drake one of his favorite hosts, and the week in November 2015 when then-candidate Donald Trump controversially hosted the show. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Not Functioning Legislatively" Oct 13, 2017

Washington Post blogger and columnist Alexandra Petri and Mike Pesca from Slate's The Gist podcast join Sam to talk through the week that was: the Harvey Weinstein scandal in Hollywood, the Trump administration's actions without Congress's help, and the Environmental Protection Agency's handling of the Clean Power Plan — plus a call to a listener in Northern California about wildfires that have ravaged the state, and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Facebook, Fake News, and Democracy Oct 10, 2017

Sam talks to journalist Max Read about his recent New York Magazine cover story, "Does Mark Zuckerberg Know What Facebook Is?" Max writes about Facebook's role in the 2016 election as the company grapples how to handle fake news, free speech, and political advertising. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Politics Over Empathy." Oct 06, 2017

New York Times reporter Katie Rogers and Stephen Thompson from NPR Music and Pop Culture Happy Hour join Sam to talk through the week that was: the Las Vegas shooting and its aftermath, the continued recovery in Puerto Rico, and President Trump's response to Puerto Rico amid the usual palace intrigue at the White House — plus a call to a listener in Barcelona and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Actor/Director John Carroll Lynch Oct 03, 2017

Google him. You know his face. John Carroll Lynch is one of the most recognizable character actors in Hollywood, and he's just directed his first film, "Lucky," starring the late, legendary Harry Dean Stanton. John talks to Sam about the film, and about being a character actor (and what that even means), getting recognized in public, what made Harry Dean Stanton so special, how he got into acting as a teenager in high school, playing evil characters, and a lesson about acting from Tropic Thunder. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Back At It." Sep 29, 2017

NPR newscaster Korva Coleman and NPR sports correspondent Tom "Yes, we do sports" Goldman join Sam to talk through the week that was: Puerto Rico, the NFL and Donald Trump, a dashed Republican health bill and a new Republican tax proposal — plus a call to a listener with family in Puerto Rico and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Insecure' Showrunner Prentice Penny Sep 26, 2017

Prentice Penny, showrunner for 'Insecure', joins Sam to talk about the HBO comedy series, which just wrapped its second season. They also discuss what a showrunner does, how he got the job, collaborating with star and co-creator Issa Rae, diversity in television, why he likes Drake (and Sam doesn't), how he came to love television and writing as a kid, how he almost became a marine biologist, and black Twitter. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Where Is Elton?" Sep 22, 2017

NPR congressional correspondent Susan Davis and Pop Culture Happy Hour host Linda Holmes join Sam to talk through the week that was: Mariah Carey natural disasters, panic fatigue, President Trump's UN speech, the new Republican Health care bill, the Emmys, the economics of streaming, awards, and the television industry, Facebook and the election — plus a call to a listener in Missouri and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Obama Speechwriter David Litt's "Hopey Changey White House Years" Sep 19, 2017

David Litt was writing speeches for President Barack Obama when he was 24. His new book about the experience is called "Thanks, Obama: My Hopey Changey White House Years." David talks to Sam about falling in love with then-candidate Obama, working his way to the White House after an internship spent playing minesweeper, getting his dream job, meeting the President, joining his team of speechwriters, how Obama used language, orchestrating moments like Obama's 'Anger Translator' bit with Keegan-Michael Key, and how David came to realize the President was not as infallible has he had once believed. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Everything. Is. Fine." Sep 16, 2017

NPR National Desk reporter Nate Rott and University of Montana journalism professor Jule Banville join Sam to talk through the week that was: fires, hurricanes, Trump on ISIS on Twitter, Silicon Valley vs bodegas, economic indicators, the legal rights of apes — plus a call to a listener in Australia and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

The Russia Investigation and The President's Foreign Deals Sep 12, 2017

New Yorker writer Adam Davidson and NPR national security correspondent Mary Louise Kelly join Sam to talk about a central question raised by Adam's reporting: What will investigators find when they look into President Trump's foreign business deals? Adam Davidson's latest story is here: http://bit.ly/2wr8pEx. Mary Louise described reporting from Moscow here: https://n.pr/2tJaMxS. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Chuck And Nancy." Sep 08, 2017

NPR Science Desk producer Madeline Sofia and education reporter Claudio Sanchez join Sam to talk through the week that was: hurricanes and earthquakes, Donald Trump's deal with Democrats Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, Beyonce's birthday, the Trump administration's action on DACA and Title IX, a man-made gas shortage in Texas, endangered salamanders, and an Irish bat — plus a call to a listener in California and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Race, Identity, and Performance in Danzy Senna's 'New People' Sep 05, 2017

Sam talks to novelist Danzy Senna about her new book, 'New People,' and about race in America, why LA is boring in a good way, black identity, what white people say when they think they're alone, being "professionally black", how her students perform their race, artistic integrity and safe spaces, prestige black TV like 'Atlanta' and 'Insecure', and the election of Barack Obama. If you're in the Washington DC area, catch Sam and Danzy in person at the East City Bookshop in Capitol Hill on Monday, September 18. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Thoughts And Prayers." Sep 01, 2017

New York Times reporter Katie Rogers and NPR film critic Bob Mondello join Sam to talk through the week that was: Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath, one woman's experience in the small Texas town of Refugio, and the view from Houston with Houston Public Media reporter Laura Isensee — then, in other news, the summer box office, upcoming movies, Prince's favorite color, Tom Brady's meal plan, six second television ads, and the Trump Hotel at night. More about how to help the Hurricane Harvey relief effort is at https://n.pr/2wiX1bS. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'Trials of the Free Press' Aug 29, 2017

Anonymous wealth leveraged in court represents a new threat to journalism in Brian Knappenberger's Netflix documentary, "Nobody Speak: Trials of the Free Press." Brian talks to Sam about the movie, which features NPR media correspondent David Folkenflik. David joins this conversation as well. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "On And On." Aug 25, 2017

Planet Money correspondent Stacey Vanek Smith and "Rough Translation" host Gregory Warner join Sam to talk through the week that was: Afghanistan, the President and the border wall, Amazon and Whole Foods, Taylor Swift, the eclipse, the GOP and tax reform, the economy in North Korea, racial identity in Brazil, and the 10-year-anniversary of the hashtag — plus music from Kanye West, a call to a listener in Georgia, and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Stick around after the episode to hear Sam talk to Stretch and Bobbito from "What's Good." Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Inside 'The Onion' Aug 22, 2017

Sam visits the Chicago offices of the satirical news publication for a headline pitch meeting and conversations with Editor-In-Chief Cole Bolton, Executive Editor Ben Berkley, Managing Editor Marnie Shure, and Head Writer Chad Nackers. They talk about comedy and President Trump (and why he makes their jobs harder), feuding with Sean Hannity, covering Barack Obama, crossing lines, and being socially awkward at parties. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Pick A Side." Aug 18, 2017

NPR reporter Kirk Siegler and Southern California Public Radio reporter Priska Neely join Sam to talk through the week that was: Charlottesville and the President's reaction to it, the reaction to that by corporations and everyone else, the so-called "alt left", Steve Bannon's late-breaking departure from the White House — plus a back-to-school scene, Queens of the Stone Age, a call to a listener in Colorado, and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Charlottesville and White People Aug 15, 2017

Sam talks to white people — and only white people — about Charlottesville. This episode: UVA history professor Grace Hale, NPR's Sarah McCammon, and developmental psychologist Amy Roberson Hayes, plus some calls to our listeners. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Simmer Down, Now." Aug 11, 2017

From WWNO in New Orleans, NPR Code Switch correspondent Gene Demby and Planet Money correspondent Noel King join Sam to talk through the week that was: a giant inflatable chicken, the President's rhetoric toward North Korea, White House infighting, an instantly notorious Google memo, a lawsuit against Harvard seeking to challenge affirmative action, and the Snap IPO — plus some New Orleans brass band music, a call to a listener in Michigan, and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'SNL' Alum Sasheer Zamata Aug 08, 2017

Sam talks to comedian and former 'Saturday Night Live' cast member Sasheer Zamata about leaving the show, breakups, her new comedy special and variety show, talking about race in the age of Trump, growing up in the mid-west, moving around a lot, going to UVA, getting into improv, moving to New York, auditioning for SNL, working on the show, and Beyonce. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Because Of You." Aug 04, 2017

Morning Edition host Rachel Martin and Stephen Thompson of NPR Music and Pop Culture Happy Hour join Sam to talk through the week that was: the speed of the news, the President's new immigration proposal and focus on the party base, why the stock market keeps soaring, the new White House chief of staff, TRL's return to MTV and the network's new CEO, celebrities (maybe?) running for office; plus, some LL Cool J, a call to a listener in San Diego, and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Lakeith Stanfield from 'Get Out' and 'Atlanta' Aug 01, 2017

Sam talks to actor Lakeith Stanfield about fidget spinning, meditating, loneliness, his character Darius on 'Atlanta,' growing up in California, working odd jobs before acting, what success means in Hollywood, why 'Get Out' was the creepiest experience he's ever had on a set, black men in film and vulnerability, his family, charcoal lemonade, his upcoming movies 'Death Note' and 'Crown Heights', and they make a surprise phone call. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "This Feels Weird." Jul 28, 2017

All Things Considered host Audie Cornish and Planet Money correspondent Ailsa Chang join Sam to talk through the week that was: health care, the President's tweets on transgender individuals in the military, the GOP's failure to pass a health care bill in the Senate, a new wrinkle in the story of a Supreme Court case, millennials and beer; plus, some Missy Elliott, a call to a listener in Arizona, and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Zoe Lister-Jones on 'Band Aid' Jul 25, 2017

The first-time director and star of the CBS sitcom 'Life in Pieces' shot her new movie using an all-female crew. She talks to Sam about that, and about diversity in hiring, her favorite karaoke song, Jamie Foxx, her film's co-stars Adam Pally and Fred Armisen, growing up in New York as the daughter of struggling artists, success and failure in art, performing the music in 'Band Aid', how directing is like journalism editing, relationships, and working with her husband. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Weekly Wrap: "Shoe's Gonna Drop." Jul 21, 2017

NPR reporter Camila Domonoske and NPR editor Barrie Hardymon join Sam to talk through the week that was: Elon Musk, the President's New York Times interview, intern season, private student loan debt, HBO's new series set in a fictional America where slavery exists, the rebirth of the Thong Song, plus a call to a listener in Oregon and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Producer/Songwriter Jeff Bhasker Jul 18, 2017

Sam talks to musician and record producer Jeff Bhakser about having a kid, settling down, working with Harry Styles (in Jamaica), what he learned working with Kanye West (in Hawaii), growing up half-Indian in New Mexico, his musical influences, the message behind all his music, and the loneliest song he ever wrote. Plus a special guest drops in. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Friday Wrap: "Sir And Rumi." Jul 14, 2017

NPR congressional correspondent Susan Davis and VICE News correspondent Evan McMorris-Santoro join Sam to talk through the week that was: Pitbull, Donald Trump Jr and his emails, Beyonce's twins, Game of Thrones, the Senate GOP and health care, Senator Al Franken, Emmaneul Macron and President Trump's visit to France, plus a call to a listener in Alabama and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

'The Rise and Reign of the Unruly Woman' Jul 11, 2017

Sam talks to writer Anne Helen Petersen about her new book, "Too Fat, Too Slutty, Too Loud: The Rise and Reign of the Unruly Woman." They cover pop culture and the news, President Trump, the nature of celebrity, Kim Kardashian, Nicki Minaj, Serena Williams, Lena Dunham, Amy Schumer, how white women can learn to be woke, Anne Hathaway, Melissa McCarthy, Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer, Hillary Clinton, Ivanka Trump, Bernie Sanders and 'charismatic' politicians, and why Petersen's mother was an unruly woman. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Friday Wrap: "Get Over Yourselves." Jul 07, 2017

'This American Life' reporter Zoe Chace and 'Reply All' host PJ Vogt join Sam to talk through the week that was: Chris Christie in the sun, North Korea, CNN and the President, the anniversary of the Dallas police shooting, wealthy Republican donors, hacking in the Ukraine, Hobby Lobby, plus a call to a small business owner in Illinois and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Timothy Simons from 'Veep' Jul 04, 2017

Sam talks to writer and actor Timothy Simons about hustling, playing such contemptible character, the fair city of Boston, growing up in New England, struggling in school, struggling in regional theatre, struggling as a bouncer at the worst bar in America, getting cast on 'Veep', working with Julia Louis Dreyfus, and political comedy in the age of Donald Trump. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Friday Wrap: "They're Still Here." Jun 30, 2017

Washington Post writer Alexandra Petri and Gene Demby from NPR's Code Switch team join Sam to talk through the week that was: Baby Driver, Jay-Z, the President's tweets, a new survey on American attitudes about race and discrimination, the minimum wage in Seattle, Serena Williams, the wrestler 'Progressive Liberal,' GLOW on Netflix, plus a call to a trucking company manager in Wisconsin and the best things that happened to listeners all week. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Lena Waithe from 'Master Of None' Jun 27, 2017

Sam talks to producer, writer, and actor Lena Waithe about microwavable pork rinds, growing up in front of the TV in Chicago, transcribing reality television footage, finally making it as a Hollywood writer, powerful storytelling by people of color, and writing and acting in Master Of None with Aziz Ansari. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Friday Wrap: "Likes Don't Matter." Jun 23, 2017

All Things Considered host Ari Shapiro and New York Times reporter Katie Rogers join Sam to talk through the week that was. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices
NPR Privacy Policy

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

It’s Been a Minute – NPR

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected