Live Wire with Luke Burbank

Dulcé Sloan, Brian Lindstrom, and S.G. Goodman Oct 25, 2024

Comedian Dulcé Sloan (The Daily Show) shares some anecdotes from her new book Hello, Friends!: Stories of Dating, Destiny, and Day Jobs, including how becoming fluent in Spanish as a kid turned her into the neighborhood's child lawyer; filmmaker Brian Lindstrom chats about his documentary Lost Angel: The Genius of Judee Sill, which follows the short life of a 1970s folk singer who went from living in her car to the cover of Rolling Stone, before fading into obscurity; and singer-songwriter S.G. Goodman performs the title track from her album Teeth Marks. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some under-appreciated artists nominated by our listeners.

Roger Reeves, Sean Jordan, and Erin Rae Oct 18, 2024

Poet Roger Reeves explains how he tried to reach the universal through the personal in his first collection of essays Dark Days; stand-up comedian Sean Jordan unpacks why instructional videos on potty training your kids might be flawed; and singer-songwriter Erin Rae performs the title track of her critically-acclaimed album Putting on Airs, recorded live from Pickathon festival. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some parenting challenges from our listeners.

Bianca Bosker and Brittany Davis (REBROADCAST) Oct 11, 2024

Journalist and bestselling author Bianca Bosker (Cork Dork) takes us behind the scenes of the highfalutin art world with her new book Get the Picture, before getting a lesson on masterworks from a four-year-old; and singer-songwriter Brittany Davis performs the single "So Fly" from her new album Image Issues. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the uncharted industries our listeners would love to go undercover in.

Emily Nussbaum and Pink Martini Oct 04, 2024

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Emily Nussbaum (The New Yorker) unpacks her book Cue the Sun: The Invention of Reality TV, which explores our obsession and distaste for what she calls "dirty documentary;" pianist Thomas Lauderdale and vocalist China Forbes of Pink Martini chat about their 30-year journey with the genre-bending musical group, before performing "Una Notte a Napoli" from their album Hang on Little Tomato. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello hear from our audience members about an imaginary reality TV show they'd like to see.

Emily Flake, Tessa Hulls, and Pure Bathing Culture (REBROADCAST) Sep 27, 2024

Cartoonist Emily Flake (The New Yorker) reveals Joke in a Box, her 70-card deck of creative prompts, which results in some live cartooning from the stage; writer and artist Tessa Hulls discusses her graphic memoir Feeding Ghosts, which looks at the three generations of Chinese women in her family; and indie pop duo Pure Bathing Culture perform "The Memento" from their latest album Chalice. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello tells us some favorite (short) jokes.

Ijeoma Oluo, Sarah Marshall, and Anna Tivel Sep 20, 2024

Writer and activist Ijeoma Oluo unpacks her new book Be a Revolution: How Everyday People Are Fighting Oppression and Changing the World—and How You Can, Too, which shares conversations with those who are making positive changes in powerful systems; podcaster Sarah Marshall, host of You're Wrong About, reveals the real reason we take our shoes off at the airport; and singer-songwriter Anna Tivel performs "Disposable Camera" off her newest album Living Thing. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the work of people who are real change-makers in their own communities.

Moshe Kasher, Mohanad Elshieky, and Glitterfox (REBROADCAST) Sep 13, 2024

Comedian and writer Moshe Kasher dives into his new memoir Subculture Vulture, which explores the six communities which shaped his life, from AA and Burning Man to sign language interpretation and his ultra-Hasidic upbringing; stand-up comedian Mohanad Elshieky tells us why he might be the most dangerous man in America; and indie band Glitterbox perform their single "TV." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about some niche subcultures our listeners have belonged to.

Annie Rauwerda, Ivan McClellan, and Sami Braman Sep 06, 2024

Annie Rauwerda, founder of the social media account Depths of Wikipedia, shares some more obscure entries from the website, including "The Kentucky Meat Shower;" photojournalist Ivan McClellan discusses his new book Eight Seconds, an exploration of Black rodeo culture in America; and fiddler Sami Braman plays the title track off her latest album Riveter. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal what Wikipedia rabbit holes our listeners are falling down.

Lindy West, Paul F. Tompkins, and Ural Thomas & The Pain (REBROADCAST) Aug 30, 2024

Bestselling writer Lindy West (Shrill) chats about her new podcast Text Me Back, which unpacks friendship, the news, and text threads; comedian Paul F. Tompkins takes a stab at some other P.F.T. acronyms; and soul ensemble Ural Thomas & The Pain perform "No Distance." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some texting habits that really irk our listeners.

Ian Karmel & Dr. Alisa Karmel, Zainab Johnson, and Meklit Aug 23, 2024

Comedian and writer Ian Karmel pairs up with his sister Dr. Alisa Karmel to unpack the book they co-authored T-Shirt Swim Club, about growing up fat in a world made for thin people; stand-up comedian Zainab Johnson riffs on being one of 13 children; and Ethio-jazz artist Meklit performs the title track off her new EP "Ethio Blue." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk sibling rivalry.

Sloane Crosley, Roz Chast, and Black Belt Eagle Scout (REBROADCAST) Aug 16, 2024

Writer Sloane Crosley unpacks loss in her memoir, Grief is for People, which poignantly weaves the suicide of a dear friend with the burglary of her home; The New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast shares some of her weirdest dreams from her new illustrated book, I Must Be Dreaming, including meeting Fran Lebowitz… on roller skates; and indie rocker Black Belt Eagle Scout performs “Nobody” from her latest album The Land, The Water, The Sky. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal some recurring dreams of our listeners.

Noé Álvarez, Naomi Fitter with Jon the Robot, and John Craigie Aug 09, 2024

Writer Noé Álvarez traces his family lineage through the history of the accordion in his latest book Accordion Eulogies: A Memoir of Music, Migration, and Mexico;professor of engineering Naomi Fitter introduces us to Jon, a stand-up comedian robot she developed who riffs on the dating life of a bot; and singer-songwriter John Craigie explains the awkwardness of running into fans at the post office, before performing "Judas" from his latest album Pagan Church. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what our listeners would like their hypothetical robots to do.

Dave Hill and No-No Boy (REBROADCAST) Aug 02, 2024

Comedian and writer Dave Hill dives into his newest book The Awesome Game, which makes the case for why hockey should be more popular in the United States, then tries his hand at the surprisingly popular genre of "hockey romance" novels; and singer-songwriter No-No Boy performs "Western Empress" from his latest album Empire Electric, which tells the history behind the grave of the first Japanese-American settler in Oregon. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the most "awesome games" according to our listeners.

Amanda Montell, Laurie Kilmartin, and Lizzie No Jul 26, 2024

Writer and podcaster Amanda Montell (Sounds Like a Cult) unpacks her new book The Age of Magical Overthinking, which looks at our cognitive biases, like why some of us worship celebrities or believe in the power of manifestation; stand-up comedian Laurie Kilmartin gets stoked about her son going to college, so she can start dating again; and singer-songwriter Lizzie No performs "Deadbeat" from their newest album Halfsies. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what truths our listeners are struggling to accept.

Avery Trufelman, Camille Dungy, and Olive Klug (REBROADCAST) Jul 19, 2024

Podcaster Avery Trufelman unpacks her podcast Articles of Interest, in which she reveals the history behind fashion and clothing, including prison uniforms and the debate over pockets; author Camille Dungy discusses her latest book Soil: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden, which chronicles her attempts to diversify her garden in the predominately white community of Fort Collins, Colorado; and singer-songwriter Olive Klug performs "Song About America," inspired by their experiences as a queer artist touring across the nation.

Hanif Abdurraqib and Kristin Hersh Jul 12, 2024

Critically acclaimed writer Hanif Abdurraqib unpacks his latest book, There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension, in which he explores his lifelong love of the game and what it means to make it; singer-songwriter Kristin Hersh of Throwing Muses discusses her new book The Future of Songwriting, where she considers how to be an artist in a commercialized music industry, before performing "I Shine" from her latest album Clear Pond Road. Plus, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello share what our listeners are unwavering fans of.

J. Wortham, Curtis Sittenfeld, and Margo Cilker (REBROADCAST) Jul 05, 2024

Journalist J. Wortham (The New York Times Magazine, Still Processing) recounts what happened when they visited a nude queer beach in Oaxaca; author Curtis Sittenfeld discusses her newest novel Romantic Comedy, which flips the script on the celebrity love story; and singer-songwriter Margo Cilker performs "With the Middle" from her sophomore album Valley of Heart's Delight. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello highlight some favorite romantic moments in cinema.

W. Kamau Bell, Jane Marie, and Y La Bamba Jun 28, 2024

Comedian and television host W. Kamau Bell discusses his Substack newsletter Who's With Me? and how AI got his comedic personality all wrong; journalist and podcaster Jane Marie breaks down multi-level marketing and how it preys upon working class Americans; and indie band Y La Bamba perform "Crema de Melón." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack some wild scams our listeners have fallen for.

Hari Kondabolu, Kristi Coulter, and Quasi (REBROADCAST) Jun 21, 2024

Comedian Hari Kondabolu discusses his new standup special Vacation Baby and how regrettably he blew off congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on her campaign trail; writer Kristi Coulter unpacks her memoir Exit Interview: The Life and Death of My Ambitious Career, which recounts the often soul-crushing work culture of an Amazon executive; and indie rock duo Quasi performs "Queen of Ears" off their new album Breaking the Balls of History. Plus, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello share some of the wildest things children have said to our listeners.

Dulcé Sloan, Brian Lindstrom, and S.G. Goodman Jun 14, 2024

Comedian Dulcé Sloan (The Daily Show) shares some anecdotes from her new book Hello, Friends!: Stories of Dating, Destiny, and Day Jobs, including how becoming fluent in Spanish as a kid turned her into the neighborhood's child lawyer; filmmaker Brian Lindstrom chats about his documentary Lost Angel: The Genius of Judee Sill, which follows the short life of a 1970s folk singer who went from living in her car to the cover of Rolling Stone, before fading into obscurity; and singer-songwriter S.G. Goodman performs the title track from her album Teeth Marks. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some under-appreciated artists nominated by our listeners.

Sam Sanders, Reggie Watts, and Sway Wild (REBROADCAST) Jun 07, 2024

Podcaster Sam Sanders (Vibe Check) shares his hot takes on pop culture, from the Barbie movie to his favorite nepobaby; comedian Reggie Watts interprets his feelings about generation differences through a spoken word poem; and indie folk duo Sway Wild perform their song "Home," which was inspired by a two-month sailing voyage in British Columbia. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal our listeners' favorite moment in pop culture this year.

Bianca Bosker and Brittany Davis May 31, 2024

Journalist and bestselling author Bianca Bosker (Cork Dork) takes us behind the scenes of the highfalutin art world with her new book Get the Picture, before getting a lesson on masterworks from a four-year-old; and singer-songwriter Brittany Davis performs the single "So Fly" from her new album Image Issues. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the uncharted industries our listeners would love to go undercover in.

R. Eric Thomas, Ian Karmel, and NONBINARY GIRLFRIEND (REBROADCAST) May 24, 2024

Author and columnist R. Eric Thomas shares anecdotes from his memoir Congratulations, The Best Is Over, including how baking cupcakes may have saved his life; standup comedian Ian Karmel makes the case for why Arby's is a farm-to-table restaurant; and indie group NONBINARY GIRLFRIEND perform the title track off their new album Big and Kind. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the surprising differences between our listeners and their partners.

Courtenay Hameister, Charley Crockett, and Moshow the Cat Rapper May 17, 2024

In this 20th Anniversary Special, Live Wire celebrates some of its most memorable moments in the past two decades. Host Luke Burbank gets interviewed by former host Courtenay Hameister about taking the reins of the show and how the embarrassment he felt as a child led to his "openness" onstage; Americana singer-songwriter Charley Crockett chats about busking and train-hopping, before performing "I Wanna Cry" from his album Lonesome as a Shadow; and Moshow the Cat Rapper lives his truth with a rollicking rap "Don't Declaw Your Cat."

Paul F. Tompkins, Safiya Sinclair, Isabeau Waia'u Walker (REBROADCAST) May 10, 2024

Comedian Paul F. Tompkins chats about his improv comedy podcast The Neighborhood Listen, where he and fellow comedians re-enact posts from the app Nextdoor; poet Safiya Sinclair discusses her memoir How to Say Babylon, in which she recounts growing up Rastafarian in Jamaica under the strict patriarchy of her father; and singer-songwriter Isabeau Waia'u Walker performs her song "All My Friends Think I'm Okay." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some unhinged behavior from the neighbors of our listeners.

Cheryl Strayed, Jay Jurden, and Dessa May 03, 2024

Acclaimed writer Cheryl Strayed (Wild, Tiny Beautiful Things) discusses her new personal essay "Two Women Walk into a Bar," which follows her complicated relationship with her late mother-in-law; stand-up comedian Jay Jurden bridges the generational divide with some poignantly hilarious observations on Boomers and Gen Z; and singer-rapper-poet Dessa performs "Hurricane Party" from her latest album Bury the Lede. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack the benign (but complicated) relationships our listeners have with the people from their everyday lives.

Aparna Nancherla, Gary Gulman, No-No Boy (REBROADCAST) Apr 26, 2024

Comedian and writer Aparna Nancherla discusses her memoir Unreliable Narrator and why her mother made her order pizza to combat her shyness; stand-up comedian Gary Gulman riffs on the false notion of dangerous scissors in elementary school; singer-songwriter and historian No-No Boy performs his song "1603," featured on his latest album Empire Electric, which tells the story of the first non-Native sighting of Oregon by a multicultural crew of sailors who fell through the cracks of history. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello learn about the times our listeners suffered from impostor syndrome.

Emily Flake, Tessa Hulls, and Pure Bathing Culture Apr 19, 2024

Cartoonist Emily Flake (The New Yorker) reveals Joke in a Box, her 70-card deck of creative prompts, which results in some live cartooning from the stage; writer and artist Tessa Hulls discusses her graphic memoir Feeding Ghosts, which looks at the three generations of Chinese women in her family; and indie pop duo Pure Bathing Culture perform "The Memento" from their latest album Chalice. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello tells us some favorite (short) jokes.

Gary Gulman, Anis Mojgani, and Olive Klug (REBROADCAST) Apr 12, 2024

Comedian Gary Gulman (The Great Depresh) discusses his memoir Misfit: Growing Up Awkward in the '80s, his struggles with mental health, and the awkwardness of being recognized in the psyche ward; Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani reads from his newest collection The Tigers, They Let Me and makes the case for why poetry exists all around us; singer-songwriter Olive Klug touches on the TikTok generation of songwriting, before performing her song "Raining in June." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the ways in which our listeners have been unexpectedly cheered up by others.

Moshe Kasher, Mohanad Elshieky, and Glitterfox Apr 05, 2024

Comedian and writer Moshe Kasher dives into his new memoir Subculture Vulture, which explores the six communities which shaped his life, from AA and Burning Man to sign language interpretation and his ultra-Hasidic upbringing; stand-up comedian Mohanad Elshieky tells us why he might be the most dangerous man in America; and indie band Glitterbox perform their single "TV." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about some niche subcultures our listeners have belonged to.

Scott Aukerman, Sarafina El-Badry Nance, and Family Worship Center (REBROADCAST) Mar 29, 2024

Comedian and writer Scott Aukerman brings his wildly popular improv podcast Comedy Bang! Bang! to book form and reveals how a goofy name and an occupation is really how a character begins; astrophysicist Sarafina El-Badry Nance explores her own universe as a woman, scientist, cancer advocate, and one-time swimsuit model in her book Starstruck: A Memoir of Astrophysics and Finding Light in the Dark; rock ensemble and faux cult Family Worship Center perform "Snake Dance" from their new album Kicked Out Of The Garden. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the alter egos of some of our listeners.

Lindy West, Paul F. Tompkins, and Ural Thomas & The Pain Mar 22, 2024

Bestselling writer Lindy West (Shrill) chats about her new podcast Text Me Back, which unpacks friendship, the news, and text threads; comedian Paul F. Tompkins takes a stab at some other P.F.T. acronyms; and soul ensemble Ural Thomas & The Pain perform "No Distance." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some texting habits that really irk our listeners.

Héctor Tobar, Jena Friedman, and Joseph (REBROADCAST) Mar 15, 2024

Author Héctor Tobar explores the meanings and myths of the term "Latino" in his sixth book Our Migrant Souls; comedian and writer Jena Friedman (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm) chats about her debut collection of essays Not Funny and recounts the time she put her foot in her comedic mouth; and indie folk trio Joseph performs a cover of Tom Waits' song "Come On Up to the House." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello explain why you shouldn't attempt to be as funny as David Sedaris.

Sloane Crosley, Roz Chast, and Black Belt Eagle Scout Mar 08, 2024

Writer Sloane Crosley unpacks loss in her memoir, Grief is for People, which poignantly weaves the suicide of a dear friend with the burglary of her home; The New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast shares some of her weirdest dreams from her new illustrated book, I Must Be Dreaming, including meeting a rollerskating Fran Lebowitz; and indie rocker Black Belt Eagle Scout performs “Nobody” from her latest album The Land, The Water, The Sky.

Maria Bamford and Isabeau Waia'u Walker (REBROADCAST) Mar 01, 2024

Comedian Maria Bamford chats about her new book Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult, which unpacks mental illness and the quest to belong... and why 12-step programs and the Suzuki Method have more in common than you might think. Then, singer-songwriter Isabeau Waia'u Walker performs her song "The Prince," written as a tribute to her father and the young men of Hawaii who often slip through the cracks. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some cult-adjacent experiences from our listeners.

Dave Hill and No-No Boy Feb 23, 2024

Comedian and writer Dave Hill dives into his newest book The Awesome Game, which makes the case for why hockey should be more popular in the United States, then tries his hand at the surprisingly popular genre of "hockey romance" novels; and singer-songwriter No-No Boy performs "Western Empress" from his latest album Empire Electric, which tells the history behind the grave of the first Japanese-American settler in Oregon. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the most "awesome games" according to our listeners.

Ken Jennings, Erica Berry, and Making Movies (REBROADCAST) Feb 16, 2024

Author and Jeopardy host Ken Jennings takes us on a journey to the afterlife with his latest book, 100 Places to See After You Die, and explains why contestant interviews are so darn awkward; writer Erica Berry discusses her debut book Wolfish, which examines all things "wolf" – from fables to fears; and international rock group Making Movies perform "Porcelina" from their album XOPA. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share versions of the perfect afterlife, according to our listeners.

EXTRA: Author Curtis Sittenfeld on the Longevity of Rom-Com Couples Feb 14, 2024

To celebrate Valentine's Day, this extra episode features author Curtis Sittenfeld (Romantic Comedy) in a game where she must decide if famous rom-com couples broke up or lived happily ever after.

Avery Trufelman, Camille Dungy, and Olive Klug Feb 09, 2024

Podcaster Avery Trufelman unpacks her podcast Articles of Interest, in which she reveals the history behind fashion and clothing, including prison uniforms and the debate over pockets; author Camille Dungy discusses her latest book Soil: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden, which chronicles her attempts to diversify her garden in the predominantly white community of Fort Collins, Colorado; and singer-songwriter Olive Klug performs "Song About America," inspired by her experiences as a queer artist touring across the nation.

Black History Month Special: Tracy K. Smith, Saeed Jones, and Meklit Feb 02, 2024

In this Black History Month special episode, former U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith discusses her memoir To Free the Captives, which explores Black strength, continuance, and community by looking back at her own family’s history; poet Saeed Jones (Alive at the End of the World) unpacks the backstories behind some of his poems involving Billie Holiday, Maya Angelou, and Luther Vandross; and Ethio-Jazz musician Meklit performs the song, “I Want to Sing for Them All” as a tribute to her musical influences.

J. Wortham, Curtis Sittenfeld, and Margo Cilker Jan 26, 2024

Journalist J. Wortham (The New York Times Magazine, Still Processing) recounts what happened when they visited a nude queer beach in Oaxaca; author Curtis Sittenfeld discusses her newest novel Romantic Comedy, which flips the script on the celebrity love story; and singer-songwriter Margo Cilker performs "With the Middle" from her sophomore album Valley of Heart's Delight. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello highlight some favorite romantic moments in cinema.

Jamie Loftus, J. Kenji Lopez-Alt, and Danielle Ponder (REBROADCAST) Jan 19, 2024

Writer and podcaster Jamie Loftus dives into her New York Times bestselling book Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs, a travelog on the cultural and historical significance of the American sausage; chef and food writer J. Kenji López-Alt tests his knowledge of cooking gadget infomercials; and R&B/Soul vocalist Danielle Ponder performs "So Long" from her debut album Some of Us Are Brave. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello go on some hypothetical road trips.

Hari Kondabolu, Kristi Coulter, and Quasi Jan 12, 2024

Comedian Hari Kondabolu discusses his new standup special “Vacation Baby” and how regrettably he blew off congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on her campaign trail; writer Kristi Coulter unpacks her memoir “Exit Interview: The Life and Death of My Ambitious Career,” which recounts the often soul-crushing work culture of an Amazon executive; and indie rock duo Quasi performs "Queen of Ears" off their new album “Breaking the Balls of History.” Plus, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello share some of the wildest things children have said to our listeners.

Ari Shapiro and Demi Adejuyigbe (REBROADCAST) Jan 05, 2024

Ari Shapiro, journalist and co-host of All Things Considered, unpacks his new book The Best Strangers in the World: Stories From a Life Spent Listening, which chronicles his reporting adventures across the globe, from Air Force One to the stage of the Hollywood Bowl; comedian and TV writer Demi Adejuyigbe explains how the WGA strike afforded him so much free time... to go to the Renaissance Faire. Plus, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello share stories of the most amazing strangers our listeners have encountered.

Timothy Egan and Dessa (REBROADCAST) Dec 29, 2023

Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and acclaimed author Timothy Egan unpacks his newest book A Fever in the Heartland, which traces the Ku Klux Klan's expansion across America in the 1920s and one woman's crusade to stop them; rapper and poet proves she's more talented than AI by performing a poem she penned backstage using popular search terms. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the most ridiculous challenges our listeners have accepted.

Paul F. Tompkins, José Olivarez, and Esme Patterson Dec 22, 2023

On the special holiday edition of Live Wire, comedian and podcaster Paul F. Tompkins talks about passive-aggressive Christmas carolers and the most tense rendition of “O Holy Night" he's ever heard; poet José Olivarez discusses his latest collection Promises of Gold, which explores the various types of love in our lives, from self-love to platonic love and over to romance; and singer-songwriter Esme Patterson performs her original Christmas song “If I.” Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share our listeners favorite holiday traditions.

EXTRA: Aparna Nancherla & Celebrity Lowlights Dec 20, 2023

In this podcast extra, comedian Aparna Nancherla (Unreliable Narrator: Me, Myself and Imposter Syndrome) is quizzed on the former "career lowlights" of some high-profile celebrities.

REBROADCAST: Laura Chinn, Mohanad Elshieky, and Jenny Conlee Dec 15, 2023

Writer and director Laura Chinn (Florida Girls) discusses her memoir Acne, which tackles her racial identity, Scientology, and of course... very oily skin; standup comedian Mohanad Elshieky riffs on embarrassing encounters with TSA and Uber drivers; and multi-instrumentalist Jenny Conlee, of The Decemberists, performs "Hawk" from her solo album Tides: Pieces for Accordion and Piano. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello hear from our listeners about what they obsessed over as teenagers.

Sam Sanders, Reggie Watts, and Sway Wild Dec 08, 2023

Podcaster Sam Sanders (Vibe Check) shares his hot takes on pop culture, from the Barbie movie to his favorite nepobaby; comedian Reggie Watts interprets his feelings about generation differences through a spoken word poem; and indie folk duo Sway Wild perform their song "Home," which was inspired by a two-month sailing voyage in British Columbia. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal our listeners' favorite moment in pop culture this year.

REBROADCAST: Dana Schwartz, Jenny Odell, and Black Belt Eagle Scout Dec 01, 2023

Novelist Dana Schwartz unpacks her gothic fantasy duology, Anatomy and Immortality, then dives into her podcast Noble Blood, which explores the bizarre and risqué lives of royals; writer Jenny Odell dismantles the clock in her newest book Saving Time while explaining it's unofficial motto: time is beans; and indie rocker Black Belt Eagle Scout performs "Don't Give Up" from her new album The Land, The Water, The Sky, which dreams up the atmosphere of her ancestral land of Swinomish. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal how our listeners love to "waste" time.

R. Eric Thomas, Ian Karmel, and NONBINARY GIRLFRIEND Nov 24, 2023

Author and columnist R. Eric Thomas shares anecdotes from his memoir Congratulations, The Best Is Over, including how baking cupcakes may have saved his life; standup comedian Ian Karmel makes the case for why Arby's is a farm-to-table restaurant; and indie group NONBINARY GIRLFRIEND perform the title track off their new album Big and Kind. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the surprising differences between our listeners and their partners.

REBROADCAST: Kelsey McKinney, Brenda Shaughnessy, and Madison Cunningham Nov 17, 2023

Journalist and podcaster Kelsey McKinney (Defector) dishes on producing her juicy podcast Normal Gossip; poet Brenda Shaughnessy explains how her newest collection Tanya is partially an attempt to reconnect with her estranged college roommate; and Grammy-winner Madison Cunningham performs her single "Broken Harvest." Plus host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some niche gossip from our listeners.

Paul F. Tompkins, Safiya Sinclair, and Isabeau Waia'u Walker Nov 10, 2023

Comedian Paul F. Tompkins chats about his improv comedy podcast The Neighborhood Listen, where he and fellow comedians re-enact posts from the app Nextdoor; poet Safiya Sinclair discusses her memoir How to Say Babylon, in which she recounts growing up Rastafarian in Jamaica under the strict patriarchy of her father; and singer-songwriter Isabeau Waia'u Walker performs her song "All My Friends Think I'm Okay." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some unhinged behavior from the neighbors of our listeners.

REBROADCAST: Lauren Fleshman, Joey Clift, and Who Is She Nov 03, 2023

Record-breaking runner Lauren Fleshman unpacks her New York Times bestseller Good for a Girl, a part-memoir, part-manifesto which challenges the male-built sports system; comedian and writer Joey Clift chats about his Comedy Central digital series Gone Native, which delves into the weird microaggressions Native people are up against; and Seattle-based indie supergroup Who Is She? performs a cover of a Le Tigre song... which actually got them fired from a sports arena gig. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what records our listeners would like to break.

Aparna Nancherla, Gary Gulman, and No-No Boy Oct 27, 2023

Comedian and writer Aparna Nancherla discusses her memoir Unreliable Narrator and why her mother made her order pizza to combat her shyness; stand-up comedian Gary Gulman riffs on the false notion of dangerous scissors in elementary school; singer-songwriter and historian No-No Boy performs his song "1603," featured on his latest album Empire Electric, which tells the story of the first non-Native sighting of Oregon by a multicultural crew of sailors who fell through the cracks of history. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello learn about the times our listeners suffered from impostor syndrome.

REBROADCAST: Cheryl Strayed, Joseph Earl Thomas, and Stephanie Anne Johnson Oct 20, 2023

Celebrated author Cheryl Strayed (Wild, Dear Sugar) revisits her collection of advice columns, Tiny Beautiful Things, which celebrates its tenth anniversary and has recently been adapted as a Hulu series starring Kathryn Hahn; writer Joseph Earl Thomas unpacks his memoir Sink, in which he describes how geek culture saved him from his hazardous upbringing; and singer-songwriter Stephanie Anne Johnson performs their song "The Day That You Begin." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some life advice from our listeners.

Gary Gulman, Anis Mojgani, and Olive Klug Oct 13, 2023

Comedian Gary Gulman (The Great Depresh) discusses his memoir Misfit: Growing Up Awkward in the '80s, his struggles with mental health, and the awkwardness of being recognized in the psyche ward; Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani reads from his newest collection The Tigers, They Let Me and makes the case for why poetry exists all around us; singer-songwriter Olive Klug touches on the TikTok generation of songwriting, before performing her song "Raining in June." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the ways in which our listeners have been unexpectedly cheered up by others.

REBROADCAST: Ross Gay, Iliana Regan, and Baroque Betty with Mood Area 52 Oct 06, 2023

Poet and essayist Ross Gay (Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude) dissects privilege, pain, and skateboarding, all themes from his newest book Inciting Joy; Michelin Star chef Iliana Regan outlines her journey from farmer's markets to foraging, while creating a new dining experience in the wilds of Michigan; and singer-songwriter Baroque Betty, accompanied by Mood Area 52, performs the title track off her album Sobering Up. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share our listeners' perfect weekends.

Scott Aukerman, Sarafina El-Badry Nance, and Family Worship Center Sep 29, 2023

Comedian and writer Scott Aukerman brings his wildly popular improv podcast Comedy Bang! Bang! to book form and reveals how a goofy name and an occupation is really how a character begins; astrophysicist Sarafina El-Badry Nance explores her own universe as a woman, a scientist, a cancer advocate, and a one-time swimsuit model in her book Starstruck: A Memoir of Astrophysics and Finding Light in the Dark; rock ensemble and faux cult Family Worship Center perform "Snake Dance" from their new album Kicked Out Of The Garden. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the alter egos of some of our listeners.

REBROADCAST: Hari Kondabolu and Margo Cilker Sep 22, 2023

Comedian Hari Kondabolu (Snack vs. Chef) unpacks his most popular tweets and dives into why Bert and Ernie need couples' therapy. Then, singer-songwriter Margo Cilker explains why she might have cow poop on her sleeve at any given time backstage, before performing "Tehachapi" from her debut album Pohorylle. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get nostalgic for some snacks from the past.

Héctor Tobar, Jena Friedman, and Joseph Sep 15, 2023

Author Héctor Tobar explores the meanings and myths of the term "Latino" in his sixth book Our Migrant Souls; comedian and writer Jena Friedman (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm) chats about her debut collection of essays Not Funny and recounts the time she put her foot in her comedic mouth; and indie folk trio Joseph performs a cover of Tom Waits' song "Come On Up to the House." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello explain why you shouldn't attempt to be as funny as David Sedaris.

REBROADCAST: J. Kenji Lopez-Alt, Sara Schaefer, and Dehd Sep 08, 2023

Chef and food writer J. Kenji López-Alt tests his knowledge of cooking gadget infomercials; comedian Sara Schaefer leads a seminar on how to perform standup in various comedic styles... including puppetry; and indie rock group Dehd discusses bad love stories and dental work, before performing "Bad Love" from their new album Blue Skies. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk ambitious DIY projects.

Maria Bamford and Isabeau Waia'u Walker Sep 01, 2023

Comedian Maria Bamford chats about her new book Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult, which unpacks mental illness and the quest to belong... and why 12-step programs and the Suzuki Method have more in common than you might think. Then, singer-songwriter Isabeau Waia'u Walker performs her song "The Prince," written as a tribute to her father and the young men of Hawaii who often slip through the cracks. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some cult-adjacent experiences from our listeners.

REBROADCAST: Saeed Jones, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and The Lowest Pair Aug 25, 2023

Poet and Kirkus Prize winner Saeed Jones unpacks his newest collection Alive at the End of the World and why Billie Holiday had a bone to pick with Maya Angelou; writer Silvia Moreno-Garcia (Mexican Gothic) explains how her love of horror at a young age found its way into her latest book The Daughter of Doctor Moreau; and indie folk duo The Lowest Pair perform "Pear Tree" from their first record 36 Cents. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss our strange childhood obsessions.

REBROADCAST: Aubrey Gordon, Chris Meija, and Danielle Ponder Aug 18, 2023

Aubrey Gordon discusses how her hit podcast Maintenance Phase debunks the junk science behind nutrition, wellness, and fatness; stand-up comedian Chris Meija gives us an unexpectedly hilarious account of his call to the suicide hotline; and lawyer-turned-powerhouse vocalist Danielle Ponder performs "Only the Lonely" from her newest album Some Of Us Are Brave. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello recall some fads of the past.

EXTRA: Jamie Loftus & The State Slogan Showdown Aug 16, 2023

In this extra episode, podcaster, writer, and road-tripper Jamie Loftus (Raw Dog: The Naked Truth about Hot Dogs) tests her knowledge of the official slogans of various American states.

REBROADCAST: Nora McInerny, Nabil Ayers, and Madison Cunningham Aug 11, 2023

Writer and podcaster Nora McInerny (Terrible, Thanks for Asking) explains why she is the saddest happy person she knows; music entrepreneur Nabil Ayers chats about his memoir My Life in the Sunshine and his estranged relationship with his biological father, funk/soul musician Roy Ayers; and singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham gives a show-stopping performance of her song "All I've Ever Known” from her Grammy-winning album Revealer. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss the ways in which we are too hard on ourselves.

REBROADCAST: George Saunders and Samantha Crain Aug 04, 2023

Award-winning author George Saunders (Lincoln in the Bardo) unpacks his writing process and explains how creating confusion often leads to interesting literary worlds; and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain discusses the importance of making music in her Choctaw language, before performing "Joey" from her album A Small Death. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate teachers and the impact they've had on us.

Ken Jennings, Erica Berry, and Making Movies Jul 28, 2023

Author and Jeopardy host Ken Jennings takes us on a journey to the afterlife with his latest book, 100 Places to See After You Die, and explains why contestant interviews are so darn awkward; writer Erica Berry discusses her debut book Wolfish, which examines all things "wolf" – from fables to fears; and international rock group Making Movies performs "Porcelina" from their album XOPA. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share versions of the perfect afterlife, according to our listeners.

Washington Post Reporter Casey Parks on "Diary of a Misfit" Jul 21, 2023

Washington Post reporter Casey Parks unpacks her new book Diary of a Misfit, wherein she reckons with her own sexuality, her Southern identity, and her complicated relationship with her mother; and singer-songwriter Thunderstorm Artis explains how his music went from The Voice to Grey's Anatomy, before performing his single "Stronger." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello set out to solve some mysteries.

All Things Considered's Ari Shapiro on "The Best Strangers in the World" Jul 14, 2023

Ari Shapiro, journalist and co-host of All Things Considered, unpacks his new book The Best Strangers in the World: Stories From a Life Spent Listening, which chronicles his reporting adventures across the globe, from Air Force One to the stage of the Hollywood Bowl; comedian and TV writer Demi Adejuyigbe explains how the WGA strike has afforded him so much free time... to go to the Renaissance Faire. Plus, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello share stories of the most amazing strangers our listeners have encountered.

Ginny Hogan is More Dateable Than a Plate of Refried Beans Jul 07, 2023

Comedian and satirist Ginny Hogan explains the terms and conditions of being her undetermined partner; Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani describes a surprising encounter with an unlikely poetry fan; and jazz vocalist and Pink Martini member Jimmie Herrod recounts his successful run on America's Got Talent before performing his new song, "I Love You." Plus, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello unpack some dating red flags.

Jamie Loftus on "Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs" Jun 30, 2023

Writer and podcaster Jamie Loftus dives into her New York Times bestselling book Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs, a travelog on the cultural and historical significance of the American sausage; poet José Olivarez explores the lexicon of love in two languages in his newest collection Promises of Gold; and R&B/Soul vocalist Danielle Ponder performs "So Long" from her debut album Some of Us Are Brave. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello go on some hypothetical road trips.

Sona Movsesian is The World's Worst Assistant Jun 23, 2023

Writer and podcaster Sona Movsesian makes the case for why she is "the world's worst assistant" to Conan O'Brien; stand-up comedian Marcella Arguello unpacks the politics of airport parking; and spiritual jazz duo Brown Calculus perform their song "Seven Seas." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the worst jobs our listeners have ever had.

Timothy Egan Grapples with the KKK and Rapper/Poet Dessa Spars with AI Jun 16, 2023

Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and acclaimed author Timothy Egan unpacks his newest book A Fever in the Heartland, which traces the Ku Klux Klan's expansion across America in the 1920s and one woman's crusade to stop them; rapper and poet proves she's more talented than AI by performing a poem she penned backstage using popular search terms. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the most ridiculous challenges our listeners have accepted.

Podcaster Sam Sanders is "Into It" Jun 09, 2023

Writer Erika L. Sanchez (I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter) unpacks her memoir-in-essays, Crying in the Bathroom, and how Lisa Simpson taught her about feminism; podcaster Sam Sanders (Into It, Vibe Check) argues that pop culture gives us the script for how to be in the world; and singer-songwriter John Craigie admits to being terrible at small talk, before performing "Drown Me" from his latest album Mermaid Salt. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about those pop culture moments we can't seem to let go of.

Florida Girls' Laura Chinn on "Acne" Jun 02, 2023

Writer and director Laura Chinn (Florida Girls) discusses her memoir Acne, which tackles her racial identity, Scientology, and of course... very oily skin; standup comedian Mohanad Elshieky riffs on embarrassing encounters with TSA and Uber drivers; and multi-instrumentalist Jenny Conlee, of The Decemberists, performs "Hawk" from her solo album Tides: Pieces for Accordion and Piano. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello hear from our listeners about what they obsessed over as teenagers.

Isaac Fitzgerald on "Dirtbag, Massachusetts" May 26, 2023

Writer Isaac Fitzgerald grapples with identity, forgiveness, and a new vision of masculinity in his searing memoir Dirtbag, Massachusetts; stand-up comedian Carmen Lagala explains how her love of the WNBA broke up a teenage relationship; and singer-songwriter No-No Boy performs "Boat People" from his album 1975, as a tribute to the millions who fled southeast Asia after the fall of Saigon. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about childhood misperceptions.

Traveling Through Time with Dana Schwartz and Jenny Odell May 19, 2023

Novelist Dana Schwartz unpacks her gothic fantasy duology, Anatomy and Immortality, then dives into her podcast Noble Blood, which explores the bizarre and risqué lives of royals; writer Jenny Odell dismantles the clock in her newest book Saving Time while explaining it's unofficial motto: "time is beans;" and indie rocker Black Belt Eagle Scout performs "Don't Give Up" from her new album The Land, The Water, The Sky, which dreams up the atmosphere of her ancestral land of Swinomish. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal how our listeners love to "waste" time.

Chuck Klosterman Revisits The Nineties May 12, 2023

In this rebroadcast, writer Chuck Klosterman (Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs) unpacks his newest book The Nineties and admits how the "slacker ethos" of the decade made him embarrassed to succeed as a writer; and international rock band Making Movies explains why it's difficult to separate activism from their music, before performing the title track off their album XOPA. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get nostalgic for the 1990s.

Normal Gossip's Kelsey McKinney Defends Dishing May 05, 2023

Journalist and podcaster Kelsey McKinney (Defector) dishes on producing her juicy podcast Normal Gossip; poet Brenda Shaughnessy explain how her newest collection Tanya is partially an attempt to reconnect with her estranged college roommate; and Grammy-winner Madison Cunningham performs her single "Broken Harvest." Plus host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some normal gossip from our listeners.

EXTRA: Normal Gossip's Kelsey McKinney Spills the "Jar of Tea" May 03, 2023

In this podcast extra, journalist and Normal Gossip podcaster gives advice on gossip etiquette, from exes to eavesdropping.

Michelle Zauner (a.k.a. Japanese Breakfast) on "Crying in H Mart” Apr 28, 2023

Musician and writer Michelle Zauner, a.k.a. Japanese Breakfast, discusses her memoir Crying in H Mart, in which she reconnects with her late mother and their Korean heritage through a love of food; stand-up comedian Sean Patton pokes fun at regional airports with a tough TSA; and singer-songwriter Kurt Vile confesses to being Philadelphia's best forklift driver, before performing "Flyin (Like a Fast Train)" from his latest album (watch my moves). Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal what our listeners would like to normalize.

The New Yorker's Adam Gopnik Tackles "The Real Work" Apr 21, 2023

The New Yorker's Adam Gopnik takes us a journey of his new book The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery, in which he learns how to draw, drive a car at age 55, and pee in public; standup comedian Abby Govindan scams the KKK for a college class; and singer-songwriter Reckless Son chats about playing for the incarcerated at over 150 prisons across the nation, before performing his song "The Wisdom of a Child." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what our listeners have mastered.

EXTRA: Christopher Walken Invites You to Become a Member Apr 19, 2023

Luke and Elena explore their best celebrity impersonations in a desperate attempt to get you to join the League of Extraordinary Listeners!

Jon Mooallem Contemplates His "Serious Face" & The Sports Bra Turns 1 Apr 14, 2023

Writer Jon Mooallem (The New York Times Magazine) discusses his newest collection of essays Serious Face and why you shouldn't tell your friend they look like a 1940’s Spanish bullfighter; chef Jenny Nguyen chats about opening her Portland bar The Sports Bra, which exclusively televises women's sports; and singer-songwriter Laura Veirs performs "My Lantern" from her latest album Found Light. Plus, Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk dream businesses.

EXTRA: Cheryl Strayed Gives Advice on "Tiny Meaningless Things" Apr 12, 2023

In this podcast EXTRA, celebrated author Cheryl Strayed (Wild, Tiny Beautiful Things) dons her Dear Sugar persona to give advice on some meaningless (but fun!) everyday life scenarios.

Runner Lauren Fleshman on Being "Good for a Girl" Apr 07, 2023

Record-breaking runner Lauren Fleshman unpacks her New York Times bestseller, Good for a Girl, a part-memoir, part-manifesto which challenges the male-built sports system; comedian and writer Joey Clift chats about his new Comedy Central digital series Gone Native, which delves into the weird microaggressions Native people are up against; and Seattle-based indie supergroup Who Is She? performs a cover of a Le Tigre song... which actually got them fired from a sports arena gig. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what records our listeners would like to break.

Dylan Marron on "Conversations with People Who Hate Me" Mar 31, 2023

Writer and podcaster Dylan Marron chats about his book and podcast of the same name, Conversations with People Who Hate Me, and how a phone call can forge a deeper connection than social media; and musician Brittany Davis explains how music became their first language as a blind person, before performing "Loud Loud World" from their EP I Choose to Live. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack some unexpected topics of conversation.

Cheryl Strayed's "Tiny Beautiful Things" Comes to Hulu Mar 24, 2023

Celebrated author Cheryl Strayed (Wild, Dear Sugar) revisits her collection of advice columns, Tiny Beautiful Things, which drops next month as a Hulu series starring Kathryn Hahn; writer Joseph Earl Thomas unpacks his memoir Sink, in which he describes how geek culture saved him from his hazardous upbringing; and singer-songwriter Stephanie Anne Johnson performs their song "The Day That You Begin." Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some life advice from our listeners.

Andrew Bird on "Inside Problems" & "Gastro Obscura" author Cecily Wong Mar 17, 2023

Writer Cecily Wong chats about her book Gastro Obscura, which features fascinating food stories from across the globe, including psychedelic honey that was once used as a weapon in old world Turkey; and Grammy Award-nominee Andrew Bird explains how he balances painful shyness with being a public figure, before performing "Make a Picture" from his latest album Inside Problems. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello dish out some yums and yucks from our listeners.

EXTRA: Michelin Star Chef Iliana Regan on Metal Music vs Mushrooms Mar 15, 2023

In this podcast EXTRA, Michelin star chef and forager Iliana Regan (Fieldwork) plays a round of "Metal vs Mushroom," wherein she must discern between a metal band or a mushroom strain. Cramp Balls, anyone?

Ross Gay on "Inciting Joy" & Foraging with Michelin Star Chef Iliana Regan Mar 10, 2023

Poet and essayist Ross Gay (Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude) dissects privilege, pain, and skateboarding, all themes from his newest book Inciting Joy; Michelin Star chef Iliana Regan outlines her journey from farmer's markets to foraging, while creating a new dining experience in the wilds of Michigan; and singer-songwriter Baroque Betty, accompanied by Mood Area 52, performs the title track off her album Sobering Up. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share our listeners' perfect weekends.

Women's History with Jamie Loftus, Silvia Vasquez-Lavado, and Ani DiFranco Mar 03, 2023

This week Live Wire celebrates Women's History Month! Comedian Jamie Loftus unpacks her podcast Aack Cast, which unpacks how the Cathy comic strip is still relevant to feminist struggles today; writer and mountaineer Silvia Vasquez-Lavado reveals how she became the first openly gay woman to climb “The Seven Summits” while overcoming addiction and childhood trauma; and feminist icon and activist Ani DiFranco discusses starting her own record label when she was just 19-years-old, before performing “Simultaneously” from her latest album Revolutionary Love. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello shout out some unsung heroes from Women's History.

Snack vs Chef's Hari Kondabolu, plus Margo Cilker Feb 24, 2023

Comedian Hari Kondabolu (Snack vs. Chef) unpacks his most popular tweets and dives into why Bert and Ernie need couples' therapy; singer-songwriter Margo Cilker explains why she might have cow poop on her sleeve at any given time backstage, before performing "Tehachapi" from her new album Pohorylle; and host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get nostalgic for some snacks from the past.

John Craigie & The New Yorker's Kathryn Schulz Feb 17, 2023

Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Kathryn Schulz (The New Yorker) unpacks her memoir Lost & Found, which weaves together the loss of her father with finding the love of her life; football coach and mentor Keanon Lowe recounts the day he intercepted a potential school shooter with a hug; and storyteller and singer-songwriter John Craigie explains having to sing around "naughty" words for public radio appearances, before performing "Laurie Rolled Me a J" from his newest album Mermaid Salt. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss the coolest (and most random) things found by our listeners.

Saeed Jones, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and The Lowest Pair Feb 10, 2023

Poet and Kirkus Prize winner Saeed Jones unpacks his newest collection Alive at the End of the World and why Billie Holiday had a bone to pick with Maya Angelou; writer Silvia Moreno-Garcia (Mexican Gothic) explains how her love of horror at a young age found its way into her latest book The Daughter of Doctor Moreau; and indie folk duo The Lowest Pair perform "Pear Tree" from their first record 36 Cents. Plus, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss our strange childhood obsessions.

Sam Jay, Jelani Memory, Leyla McCalla, and Black Violin Feb 03, 2023

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate "Black History Month" with this special episode. Comedian Sam Jay (Saturday Night Live) discusses developing a whole new kind of late night show with her HBO series PAUSE with Sam Jay; writer and publisher Jelani Memory (A Kids Book About Racism) explains how he launched a book series for parents and kids to tackle heavy topics; cellist and folk musician Leyla McCalla brings the musicality of Langston Hughes' poetry to life with "Song for a Dark Girl" from her Smithsonian Folkways album Vari-Colored Songs; and instrumental duo Black Violin unpack the intersection of hip hop and classical music, before performing the titular track of their album Stereotypes.

J. Kenji López-Alt, Sara Schaefer, and Dehd Jan 27, 2023

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk ambitious DIY projects; chef and food writer J. Kenji López-Alt tests his knowledge of cooking gadget infomercials; comedian Sara Schaefer leads a seminar on how to perform standup in various comedic styles... including puppetry; and indie rock group Dehd discusses bad loves stories and dental work, before performing "Bad Love" from their new album Blue Skies.

John Waters, Sasha LaPointe, and Deep Sea Diver Jan 20, 2023

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal what our listeners would like to have named after them; legendary filmmaker John Waters (Pink Flamingos, Cry Baby) chats about his first novel Liarmouth and why he'll never leave Baltimore; writer Sasha LaPointe (Red Paint) unpacks her nomadic upbringing in the Pacific Northwest and why Twin Peaks made an impact on her as young Native woman; and indie rock group Deep Sea Diver performs "Shattering the Hourglass" from their album celebrated album Impossible Weight.

Aubrey Gordon, Chris Meija, and Danielle Ponder Jan 13, 2023

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello recall some fads of the past; Aubrey Gordon discusses how her hit podcast Maintenance Phase debunks the junk science behind nutrition, wellness, and fatness; stand-up comedian Chris Meija gives us an unexpectedly hilarious account of his call to the suicide hotline; and lawyer-turned-powerhouse vocalist Danielle Ponder performs "Only the Lonely" from her newest album Some Of Us Are Brave.

EXTRA: Maintenance Phase's Aubrey Gordon & The Jar of Truth Jan 11, 2023

In this podcast EXTRA, Maintenance Phase podcaster Audrey Gordon participates in a round of “The Jar of Truth” and gives her hot takes on some fads past and present.

Gregory Gourdet and No-No Boy Jan 06, 2023

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk wacky cooking hacks; acclaimed chef and restaurateur Gregory Gourdet (Top Chef) discusses how his newest cookbook Everyone's Table begins with his journey to sobriety; and musician and scholar Julian Saporiti, a.k.a. No-No Boy, describes how he transformed his doctoral research on Asian-American history into a multimedia project, before performing "Tell Hanoi I Love Her" from his latest album 1975.

Molly Shannon and Tuelo Dec 30, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some stories of when our listeners went "over the top;" actor and comedian Molly Shannon chats about her memoir Hello Molly and how she championed her famous character Mary Katherine Gallagher for Saturday Night Live; South African rocker Tuelo explains why she secretly believes her native Mwana tribe inspired rock 'n roll music; plus, Tuelo performs the track "Trouble" off her debut album The Life of Margaret Cornelius.

Paul F. Tompkins, Sarah Marshall, and Jimmie Herrod Dec 23, 2022

In this special Holiday Edition of Live Wire, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share their favorite holiday traditions; comedian Paul F. Tompkins unpacks "weekend water" and passive-aggressive Christmas carolers; social critic Sarah Marshall, host of the hit podcast You're Wrong About, discusses why our misperceptions of the past are largely influenced by the news cycle; and jazz vocalist Jimmie Herrod, of Pink Martini fame, performs his moving piano ballad "Each Time."

EXTRA: Demi Adejuyigbe Sings "Rock n' Roll Santa Claus" Dec 21, 2022

In this podcast EXTRA, comedian and writer Demi Adejuyigbe serenades us from the live stage with his own holiday song, "Rock n' Roll Santa Claus."

Nora McInerny, Nabil Ayers, and Madison Cunningham Dec 16, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss the ways in which we are too hard on ourselves; writer and podcaster Nora McInerny (Terrible, Thanks for Asking) explains why she is the saddest happy person she knows; music entrepreneur Nabil Ayers chats about his memoir My Life in the Sunshine and his estranged relationship with his biological father, funk/soul musician Roy Ayers; and singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham gives a show-stopping performance of her song "All I've Ever Known” from her Grammy-nominated album Revealer.

Jamie Loftus, Jelani Memory, and Tolliver Dec 09, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello remember some beloved comic strip characters; comedian Jamie Loftus unpacks her newest podcast Aack Cast, which takes a deep dive into how the Cathy comic still pertains to feminist struggles today; writer and publisher Jelani Memory (A Kids Book About Racism) discusses how he launched a book series for parents and kids to tackle heavy topics; and soul-funk artist Tolliver performs his single "Say What!"

John Darnielle of The Mountain Goats and Dessa Dec 02, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the unexpected expertise of our listeners; novelist John Darnielle, frontman of The Mountain Goats, reflects on America's obsession with true crime and becoming a writer in his own right; and rapper and podcaster Dessa discusses falling out of love for a behavioral science experiment, before performing "Jumprope" from her album Chime.

George Saunders and Samantha Crain Nov 25, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate teachers and the impact their words have had on us; award-winning author George Saunders unpacks his writing process and how creating confusion for himself often leads to interesting literary worlds; and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain discusses the importance of making music in her Choctaw language, before performing "Joey" from her album A Small Death.

Silvia Vasquez-Lavado, Curtis Cook, and Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers Nov 18, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some "personal Mt. Everests" from our listeners; writer and mountaineer Silvia Vasquez-Lavado discusses how she became the first openly gay woman to climb “The Seven Summits” while overcoming addiction and childhood trauma; comedian Curtis Cook explains why you shouldn't wear a suit to Red Lobster; and Patterson Hood, frontman of Drive-By Truckers, unpacks his decades-long collaboration with bandmates, then performs "Shake and Pine" from their album Welcome 2 Club XIII.

Best News: Too Much Gobble Nov 16, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss disturbing Times Square billboards, kittens in a fighter jet, and cuddling turkeys.

Casey Parks and Thunderstorm Artis Nov 11, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello set out to solve some mysteries; Washington Post reporter Casey Parks unpacks her new book Diary of a Misfit, wherein she reckons with her own sexuality, her Southern identity, and her complicated relationship with her mother; and singer-songwriter Thunderstorm Artis explains how his music went from The Voice to Grey's Anatomy, before performing his single "Stronger."

Best News: The Dolly-dar is Beeping! Nov 09, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss a (now debunked) dazzling detail about Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton's rock 'n' roll aspirations, and how a man provided the city of Philadelphia some much-needed solace... via a rotisserie chicken-eating marathon.

Kaveh Akbar, Danielle Henderson, and Deep Sea Diver Nov 04, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello remember the things we were better at as children; celebrated poet Kaveh Akbar explains how learning Farsi as his first language shaped his poetic sense of the English language; writer Danielle Henderson (Feminist Ryan Gosling) unpacks her memoir The Ugly Cry and how her iconoclastic grandmother helped forge her own fiercely independent path; and indie rock group Deep Sea Diver performs "Impossible Weight," the title track off their newest album.

Best News: Expect Spectacle Nov 02, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss a motorcycling sabbatical, Susie Burbank's dance stylings, and wedding rendition of Mambo No. 5.

Ginny Hogan, Anis Mojgani, and Pink Martini's Jimmie Herrod Oct 28, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello unpack some dating red flags; comedian and satirist Ginny Hogan explains the terms and conditions of being her undetermined partner; Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani describes a surprising encounter with an unlikely poetry fan; and jazz vocalist and Pink Martini member Jimmie Herrod recounts his successful run on America's Got Talent before performing his new song, "I Love You."

Best News: It's Wine O'Clock Somewhere Oct 26, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Airbnb decor, a man who made a floating suit out of wine bottle corks, and an emo festival that collided with a Katy Perry concert in Las Vegas.

Gary Shteyngart, Atsuko Okatska, and The Lowest Pair Oct 21, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello discuss the kindest things our friends have done for us; author Gary Shteyngart takes us into the world of fictionalized friendship in his latest book Our Country Friends, which is lauded as the Great American Pandemic Novel; comedian Atsuko Okatska explains why getting married is more childlike than staying single; and indie folk duo The Lowest Pair perform "Mt Rainier" from their latest album Horse Camp.

Best News: Durland and Darvin Oct 19, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss furniture-scratching cats, saxophone-accompanied brain surgery, and twins who finally sold their domain name.

Sona Movsesian, Marcella Arguello, and Brown Calculus Oct 14, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the worst jobs our listeners have ever had; writer and podcaster Sona Movsesian makes the case for why she is "the world's worst assistant" to Conan O'Brien; stand-up comedian Marcella Arguello unpacks the politics of airport parking; and spiritual jazz duo Brown Calculus perform their song "Seven Seas."

Best News: I Love Fat Bears and I Cannot Lie Oct 12, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Fat Bear Week, Trader Joe's sample resurgence, and Russell Crowe's charitable donations.

Tom Scharpling, Mohanad Elsheiky, and MAITA Oct 07, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack some controversial music opinions; writer and radio host Tom Scharpling (The Best Show) explains how his dislike for Billy Joel began as a teenage misadventure to Madison Square Garden; comedian Mohanad Elshieky describes why navigating checkpoints is better than talking to his Uber driver; and indie rock group MAITA perform "A Beast" from their album Best Wishes.

Best News: Dreams of Crystal Flutes Oct 05, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss misremembered vocal stylings, Lizzo taking James Madison's crystal flute out for a spin, and a 91-year-old man who found a new lease on life via macadamia farming.

Sam Sanders, Erika L. Sanchez, and John Craigie Sep 30, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about those pop culture moments we can't seem to let go of; writer Erika L. Sanchez unpacks her memoir-in-essays, Crying in the Bathroom, and how Lisa Simpson taught her about feminism; podcaster Sam Sanders (Into It, Vibe Check) argues that pop culture gives us the script for how to be in the world; and singer-songwriter John Craigie admits to being terrible at small talk, before performing "Drown Me" from his latest album Mermaid Salt.

Best News: Terrible Sandwich Sep 28, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss the Millennium Falcon of litter boxes, how Elton John made the President cry, and a kid whose lunch complaint went viral.

Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe, Todd Haynes, and Melanie Charles Sep 23, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share our listeners' go-to karaoke songs; Mötley Crüe co-founder and bassist Nikki Sixx describes how his love of storytelling propelled him from a small town kid to a heavy metal icon; Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Todd Haynes (Far from Heaven, Carol) unpacks his first documentary feature The Velvet Underground, which looks at the lasting legacy of the 1960s experimental rock group; and genre-bending powerhouse Melanie Charles performs a "reimagining" of Marlena Shaw's "Woman of the Ghetto" from her new album Y’all Don’t (Really) Care About Black Women.

Best News: Cardboard Dad Sep 21, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Tony Passarello's Live Wire fandom, the first female Mariachi band in Denver Colorado, and rescuing a busload of stranded Torontonians.

Isaac Fitzgerald, Carmen Lagala, and No-No Boy Sep 16, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about childhood misperceptions; writer Isaac Fitzgerald grapples with identity, forgiveness, and a new vision of masculinity in his searing memoir Dirtbag, Massachusetts; stand-up comedian Carmen Lagala explains how her love of the WNBA broke up a teenage relationship; and singer-songwriter No-No Boy performs "Boat People" from his album 1975, as a tribute to the millions who fled southeast Asia after the fall of Saigon.

Best News: Corntastic! Sep 14, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss fly-by summers, food stand hustles, and South Dakota's Corn-Bassador.

EXTRA: Paul F. Tompkins, Sarah Marshall, and Demi Adejuyigbe Aug 26, 2022

In this EXTRA episode, comedians and podcasters Paul F. Tompkins (Spontaneanation), Sarah Marshall (You're Wrong About) and Demi Adejuyigbe (Gilmore Guys) team up for a raucous round of "Whose Podcast Is It, Anyway?" live from the stage in Portland, Oregon.

Chuck Klosterman and Making Movies Aug 05, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get nostalgic for the 1990s; writer Chuck Klosterman (Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs) unpacks his newest book The Nineties and admits how the "slacker ethos" of the decade made him embarrassed to succeed as a writer; and international rock band Making Movies explains why it's difficult to separate activism from their music, before performing the title track off their new album XOPA.

Nichole Perkins, Lucy Walker, and Joshua Henry Jul 29, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate the songs lyrics that reflect our lives; writer Nichole Perkins discusses her memoir Sometimes I Trip On How Happy We Could Be and makes the case for why Niles Crane is sexy; Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Lucy Walker (Waste Land) unpacks her epic documentary Bring You Own Brigade, which goes deep inside the devastation of California's wildfires; and Tony-nominated performer Joshua Henry (Hamilton) shows us how seductive our cellphones can be in his song "Guarantee."

Dylan Marron and Brittany Davis Jul 22, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack some unexpected topics of conversation; writer and podcaster Dylan Marron chats about his book and podcast of the same name, Conversations with People Who Hate Me, and how a phone call can forge a deeper connection than social media; and musician Brittany Davis explains how music became their first language as a blind person, before performing "Loud Loud World" from their new EP I Choose to Live.

SNL's Cecily Strong and Rapper Shad Jul 15, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some surprising facts about our listeners; comedian Cecily Strong delves into her memoir This Will All Be Over Soon, which weaves themes of grief with moments of absurdity, like filming SNL with her phone during lockdown; Toronto rapper Shad chats about interviewing his heroes for the Emmy Award-winning Netflix series Hip-Hop Evolution and why he's fine with being the "nice guy" in rap music; plus, Shad performs "Out of Touch" from his prescient album TAO.

Jon Mooallem, The Sport Bra's Jenny Nguyen, and Laura Veirs Jul 08, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk dream businesses; writer Jon Mooallem (The New York Times Magazine) discusses his newest collection of essays Serious Face and why you shouldn't tell your friend they look like a 1940’s Spanish bullfighter; chef Jenny Nguyen chats about opening her Portland bar The Sports Bra, which exclusively televises womens' sports; and singer-songwriter Laura Veirs performs "My Lantern" from her new album Found Light.

Daisy Hernandez and Wayne Coyne of The Flaming Lips Jul 01, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate the spirit of live performances; writer Daisy Hernández unpacks her latest book The Kissing Bug, a reportage-meets-memoir which outlines the impact of Chagas disease on Latinx communities; Wayne Coyne, frontman of The Flaming Lips, explains how to play a Covid-safe concert using space bubbles; and we hear a performance of their hit song "Do You Realize" from inside a bubble.

Sam Jay, Sean Patton, and Kurt Vile Jun 24, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some go-to icebreakers from our listeners; comedian and Emmy Award-nominated writer Sam Jay (SNL) chats about turning a party with her friends into poignant content for her HBO show PAUSE; stand-up comedian Sean Patton pokes fun at regional airports with a tough TSA; and singer-songwriter Kurt Vile confesses to being Philadelphia's best forklift driver, before performing "Flyin (Like a Fast Train)" from his new album (watch my moves).

Best News: Summer Break is Here! Jun 22, 2022

In this final episode before a brief hiatus, Luke and Elena discuss their summer plans, including an Alaska writing residency and mega home renovations. The Best News will return weekly beginning September 14, so stay tuned!

Kirsten Johnson, Chris Garcia, and Wilco's Jeff Tweedy Jun 17, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate dads this week, in honor of Father's Day; filmmaker Kirsten Johnson comes to terms with the life, death, and legacy of her father through her Netflix documentary Dick Johnson is Dead; comedian and podcaster Chris Garcia pokes fun at his life choices by channeling his Cuban father; and Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy serenades us with "Save It For Me," accompanied by his two sons.

Best News: Whatever Rolls Your Meatball Jun 15, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss the Kate Bush resurgence, a missing dachshund that made its way into Hillary Swank's lap, and sexy Swedish trash cans.

Cecily Wong & Andrew Bird Jun 10, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello dish out some yums and yucks from our listeners; writer Cecily Wong chats about her book Gastro Obscura, which features fascinating food stories from across the globe, including psychedelic honey that was once used as a weapon; and Grammy Award-nominee Andrew Bird explains how he balances painful shyness with being a public figure, before performing "Make a Picture" from his new album Inside Problems.

Best News: Pounce de León Jun 08, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss a turtle on a Hot Wheel, "Hero Rats" with tiny backpacks, and endangered bees now classified as fish.

Kristen Arnett, James Kim, and Lavender Country Jun 03, 2022

In this special episode celebrating "Pride Month," host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello give a shout-out to some unsung (or under-sung) queer heroes; writer Kristen Arnett (Mostly Dead Things) shares why she specifically likes to be referred to as a queer writer and why 7-Eleven is her happy place; podcaster James Kim shares how the language barrier between him and his mother complicated his coming out process… and ultimately inspired his fictional podcast Moonface; and Lavender Country, the first openly gay country band formed in the 1970s, performs "I Can't Shake the Stranger Out of You" from their first album in over 40 years.

Kathryn Schulz, Keanon Lowe, and John Craigie May 27, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss a baby giraffe with human leg braces and a dog that snuggled its way into a stranger's bed; Pulitzer Prize-winning New Yorker writer Kathryn Schulz unpacks her memoir Lost & Found, which weaves together the loss of her father with finding true love; football coach and mentor Keanon Lowe recounts the day he intercepted a potential school shooter with a hug; and storyteller and singer-songwriter John Craigie explains having to sing around "naughty" words for public radio appearances, before performing "Laurie Rolled Me a J" from his newest album Mermaid Salt.

Best News: The Hunter S. Thompson of Public Radio May 25, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss kitten claws, a high school student who subbed in as Pearl Jam’s drummer, and a Minnesota prison program that teaches tattooing to inmates.

Anna Sale, Elissa Washuta, and Juliana Hatfield May 20, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss two wildly different yet equally inspiring graduation stories; podcaster Anna Sale reveals how she gets to the heart of the matter in her podcast Death, Sex & Money and in her new book Let's Talk About Hard Things; writer Elissa Washuta explains how magic and witchcraft helped her get sober, as detailed in her collection of essays White Magic; and indie rock icon Juliana Hatfield performs "Mouthful of Blood" from her album Blood.

Best News: Spring Pong! May 18, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss ping-pong showmanship, TikTok's favorite baseball team, and a passenger with no flight experience who emergency-landed a plane at Florida airport.

John Waters, Sasha LaPointe, and Deep Sea Diver May 13, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss an emotional support pig and a DoorDasher who saved a customer's life. Plus, legendary filmmaker John Waters chats about his first novel Liarmouth and why he'll never leave Baltimore; writer Sasha LaPointe (Red Paint) unpacks her nomadic upbringing in the Pacific Northwest and why Twin Peaks made an impact on her as young Native woman; and indie rock group Deep Sea Diver performs "Shattering the Hourglass" from their album Impossible Weight.

Best News: Space Crime & Punishment May 11, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss a young listener's quest to transcribe a 200-year French diary, Canadians barred from committing murder in space, and the triumphant return of the California condors.

Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast, Quiara Alegría Hudes, and Moorea Masa May 06, 2022

In honor of Mother's Day, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some thoughtful mom-centric conversations: musician Michelle Zauner, a.k.a. Japanese Breakfast, discusses her memoir Crying in H Mart, in which she reconnects with her late mother and their Korean heritage through a love of food; Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes (In the Heights) reflects on how her mother's use of language informed her writing career; and singer-songwriter Moorea Masa performs her soulful single "Honey," a tribute to her complex relationship with the woman who raised her.

Best News: "A Robot Walks into a Bar..." May 04, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss recording this week from a Mazda rental car, a robot living with a penguin colony in Antarctica, and a nonprofit that sends unused hotel soap to people in need.

Chef Gregory Gourdet and No-No Boy Apr 29, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk wacky cooking hacks; acclaimed chef and restaurateur Gregory Gourdet (Top Chef) discusses how his newest cookbook Everyone's Table begins with his journey to sobriety; and musician and scholar Julian Saporiti, a.k.a. No-No Boy, describes how he transformed his doctoral research on Asian-American history into a multimedia project, before performing "Tell Hanoi I Love Her" from his latest album 1975.

Best News: Smell You, Nancy Drew! Apr 27, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss a guilt-ridden mail bag, a lemonade stand raising money for the Humane Society, and an anonymous French man who's donating his lottery winnings to help the planet.

Laci Mosley of Scam Goddess podcast, Marlee Matlin, and Kishi Bashi Apr 22, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal some scams our listeners have fallen for; comedian and podcaster Laci Mosley (A Black Lady Sketch Show, Scam Goddess) lends her expertise to real-life "sketchy" situations; actor Marlee Matlin discusses her Academy Award-winning film CODA and why she's advocating for Deaf actors to play Deaf roles; and multi-instrumentalist Kishi Bashi performs "Wait for Springtime" from his latest EP Emigrant.

Best News: Teaching Them to Flush is the Hard Part Apr 20, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss kitty adoptee Bubbles Burbank, a new Pink Floyd song in solidarity with Ukraine, a prom dress giveaway, and 90s butt cuts.

Former SNL star Molly Shannon and Tuelo Apr 15, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some stories of when our listeners went "over the top;" actor and comedian Molly Shannon chats about her memoir Hello Molly and how she championed her famous character Mary Katherine Gallagher for Saturday Night Live; South African rocker Tuelo explains why she secretly believes her native Mwana tribe inspired rock 'n roll music; plus, Tuelo performs the track "Trouble" off her debut album The Life of Margaret Cornelius.

Best News: Flying the Coop with Flamingo 492 Apr 13, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Band-Aid haute couture, a runaway flamingo living his best life in Texas, and a hyperpolyglot who finds empathy through language learning.

Roger Reeves, Anis Mojgani, Franny Choi, and Derrick C. Brown with The Helio Sequence Apr 08, 2022

To celebrate National Poetry Month, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share listener-penned haikus and some of Live Wire's most memorable poet appearances: Roger Reeves explains why poetry is the harbinger of the future; Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani performs "Today's Love is Brought to You by the Letter John Sands;" Franny Choi discusses how she incorporated Google Translate into her latest collection Soft Science; and Derrick C. Brown teams up with indie band The Helio Sequence for a rhythmically-moving poetic experience.

Best News: Sobbing to Prince Apr 06, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss "guilty" fan mail, one teacher's maligned footwear (and what his students decided to do about it), and newly discovered footage of a young Prince standing up for public school teachers.

Jamie Loftus, Jelani Memory, and Tolliver Apr 01, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello remember some beloved comic strip characters; comedian Jamie Loftus unpacks her newest podcast Aack Cast, which takes a deep dive into how the Cathy comic still pertains to feminist struggles today; writer and publisher Jelani Memory (A Kids Book About Racism) discusses how he launched a book series for parents and kids to tackle heavy topics; and soul-funk artist Tolliver performs his single "Say What!”

Best News: The Susie Burbank Rule Mar 30, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss rolling mangos, the book lady of Danville, Virginia, and a happily ever after for a supposedly "gay" dog.

Chris Gethard, Julia Rosen, and Shakey Graves Mar 25, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello go deep as why we struggle with our favorite things becoming popular; comedian Chris Gethard chats about his latest road-tripping comedy special Half My Life and why he made a pit stop at the dubious Gatorworld theme park; science journalist Julia Rosen schools us on the invasive nature of earthworms, which could be threatening the maple syrup supply; and Americana singer-songwriter Shakey Graves recounts his daunting days as an auditioning actor, before performing the title track of his re-released debut album Roll the Bones.

Best News: The Backstreet Breakers Mar 23, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss the lost mail of an all-Black, female WWII battalion, a Hawaiian cardboard shredding company that is helping businesses and the environment, and Luke's elusive days in a breakdance crew.

Silvia Vasquez-Lavado, Curtis Cook, and Patterson Hood Mar 18, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk "personal Mt. Everests;" writer and mountaineer Silvia Vasquez-Lavado discusses how she became the first openly gay woman to climb “The Seven Summits” while overcoming addiction and childhood trauma; comedian Curtis Cook explains why you shouldn't wear a suit to Red Lobster; and Patterson Hood, frontman of Drive-By Truckers, unpacks his decades-long collaboration with bandmates, then performs "Shake and Pine" from their forthcoming album.

Best News: Macho Nacho Man Mar 16, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss appliance clocks, a veteran elementary school teacher who has raised over $100,000 to keep students from going hungry over break, and the recent discovery of the century-old Endurance shipwreck.

Andrea Nevins, Melissa Febos, and Pink Martini Mar 11, 2022

Live Wire celebrates Women's History Month by honoring some unsung heroes from the past; filmmaker Andrea Nevins shines a light on the challenges and triumphs of female comedians in her documentary Hysterical; writer Melissa Febos opens up about her collection of essays, Girlhood, which looks at the forces that shape the lives of girls and the adults they become; and genre-bending musical group Pink Martini performs a soaring cover of the 1970s hit "I Am Woman."

Best News: Press 3 for a Pep Talk Mar 09, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss peduncle elongation, an elementary school hotline that's lifting spirits, and the "original" Wordle (as well as its many variations).

John Darnielle of The Mountain Goats and Dessa Mar 04, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the unexpected expertise of our listeners; novelist John Darnielle, frontman of The Mountain Goats, reflects on America's obsession with true crime and becoming a writer in his own right; and rapper and podcaster Dessa discusses falling out of love for a behavioral science experiment, plus performs her song "Jumprope" from her album Chime.

Best News: Who Framed Hank the Tank? Mar 02, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss fan mail, a baby born at 2:22AM on February 22, 2022, plus a 500-pound bear who was falsely accused of home break-ins in Lake Tahoe.

Karen Russell, Marcella Arguello, and Ani DiFranco Feb 25, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some listener-submitted DIY projects; New York Times best-selling author Karen Russell explains how she creates fantastical worlds in her stories to get at truth; comedian Marcella Arguello makes the case for staying single over 30; and folk icon and activist Ani DiFranco reflects on going her own way in the music industry and releasing her 22nd album Revolutionary Love.

Best News: Quilt Your Feelings Feb 23, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Jeopardy consulation prizes, boutique road races, diorama diner cats, and a centenary woman getting a special birthday tattoo.

W. Kamau Bell & Katie King, Paul F. Tompkins, and Keb' Mo' Feb 18, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk fashion regrets; filmmakers W. Kamau Bell & Katie King discuss their Showtime docuseries We Need to Talk About Cosby, which takes a look at Bill Cosby’s rise and fall from grace through the experiences of his accusers; comedian Paul F. Tompkins gives some fashion advice on the latest "trends," from monkey tail beards to bucket hats; and blues musician Keb' Mo' explains how moving back to his beloved Compton inspired his newest album Good to Be, before performing its title track.

Best News: The Elvis of Running Shorts Feb 16, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss young fatherhood, robot care, a prescription Parks Pass, and Erin Jackson — who became the first Black woman to win gold in Olympic speedskating.

Michael Schur, Demi Adejuyigbe, and Shovels & Rope Feb 11, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal the tiny unethical things our listeners admit to doing; television writer and producer Michael Schur (Parks and Recreation, The Good Place) discusses his new book How to Be Perfect, which attempts to break down moral philosophy into a conversation-starter; comedian Demi Adejuyigbe explains why he won't stop making fake credits for Will Smith productions; and folk duo Shovels & Rope describe why they think of themselves as a "manticore" of music-making, before performing their new track "Domino."

Best News: Dolly on a Dinosaur Feb 09, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss work robes and bed desks, a Harvard thesis-turned-TikTok musical, and a 5-year-old offering his own quirky pearls of wisdom.

Hanif Abdurraqib, Clint Smith, and Melanie Charles Feb 04, 2022

In celebration of Black History Month, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share conversations with some of Live Wire's most remarkable guests: MacArthur “Genius Grant” Fellow Hanif Abdurraqib discusses his highly acclaimed collection of essays, A Little Devil in America, which poetically praises the cultural and historical significance of Black performance of all kinds; writer Clint Smith takes us on a journey of his best-selling book How the Word is Passed, which examines the legacy of slavery through various sites across the country, from Angola prison all the way to Wall Street; and genre-bending powerhouse Melanie Charles soars with a "reimagining" of Marlena Shaw's "Woman of the Ghetto."

Best News: Telly Savalas Graphing Calculator Feb 02, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss "healthy" potato chips, John Prine tattoos, a pug "bark" mitzvah, and the USA Mullet Championships.

Matthew Gavin Frank, Davy Rothbart & Cheryl Sanford, and Andrew Bird & Jimbo Mathus Jan 28, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk birds of all kinds this week; writer Matthew Gavin Frank discusses the controversial world of diamond-smuggling pigeons; filmmaker Davy Rothbart and his subject Cheryl Sanford unpack 20 years of filming her family in their documentary 17 Blocks; and musicians Andrew Bird & Jimbo Mathus, former bandmates of the Squirrel Nut Zippers, perform "Sweet Oblivion" from their collaborative album These 13.

Best News: Appliancegate Jan 26, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Star Trek retractions, college blackboards, cow hoof trimming, cat hijackers, and the importance of tipping.

Paul F. Tompkins, Sarah Marshall, and Buffalo Nichols Jan 21, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal what our listeners have “gotten wrong” in the world of pop culture; comedian Paul F. Tompkins unpacks "weekend water" and passive-aggressive carolers; social critic Sarah Marshall, host of the podcast You're Wrong About, discusses why our misperceptions of the past are largely influenced by the news cycle; and Austin blues artist Buffalo Nichols performs "These Things" from his new self-titled album.

Best News: Fish-Operated Vehicles Jan 19, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Wordle scores, mom feedback, laughing animals, and driving goldfish.

Dead Eyes podcaster Connor Ratliff, Mikki Kendall, and Faye Webster Jan 14, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some feedback that's made the biggest impact on our listeners; actor Connor Ratliff explains how being fired by Tom Hanks inspired his hit podcast Dead Eyes, through which he unpacks showbiz rejection; Mikki Kendall, author of Hood Feminism, explains how to right the historical wrongs of the mainstream feminist movement; and indie folk artist Faye Webster performs "Better Distractions" from her latest album I Know I'm Funny haha.

Best News: Kangaroo on the Rocks Jan 12, 2022

Luke and Elena discuss Dry January, breakthrough COVID, kangaroo rescues, and the legacy of Allen Toussaint.

Kaveh Akbar, Danielle Henderson, and Deep Sea Diver Jan 07, 2022

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss the things our audience is resolving *not* to do this year; celebrated poet Kaveh Akbar explains how learning Farsi as his first language shaped his poetic sense of the English language; writer Danielle Henderson (Feminist Ryan Gosling) unpacks her memoir The Ugly Cry and how her iconoclastic grandmother helped forge her own fiercely independent path; and indie rock group Deep Sea Diver performs "Impossible Weight," the title track off their newest album.

David Duchovny, Nick & Kaylee Woodard, and Jensen McRae Dec 31, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unveil some hidden talents of our listeners; actor and best-selling author David Duchovny explains how his latest novel Truly Like Lightning is an attempt to have a larger conversation about America; jump rope world champions Nick and Kaylee Woodard test Luke's skills with a virtual lesson; and alt-folk artist Jensen McRae performs her harrowing song "Wolves."

Talib Kweli, George Saunders, and Jillette Johnson Dec 24, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello put a spin on some of our listeners’ favorite words and phrases; hip hop performer and activist Talib Kweli recounts stepping away from big-budget rap culture to become an independent artist; bestselling author George Saunders revisits his love of teaching through unpacking 19th century Russian literature; and singer-songwriter Jillette Johnson performs her incidentally-titled song "I Shouldn't Go Anywhere."

Ashley C. Ford and John Green Dec 17, 2021

In this "Best of Books" special, Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share conversations with two of Live Wire's favorite guests from 2021: writer Ashely C. Ford discusses her celebrated debut book Somebody's Daughter, which follows her experience growing up in Indiana with an incarcerated father; and bestselling author and vlogger John Green (The Fault in our Stars) discusses his new collection of essays, The Anthropocene Reviewed, which expands upon his podcast to review different aspects of our human-shaped world, from Diet Dr. Pepper to sunsets.

Penny Lane, Omar El Akkad, and The Dip Dec 10, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the strange things listeners love that remain otherwise unpopular; filmmaker Penny Lane discusses her new HBO documentary about instrumentalist Kenny G and what makes his music so polarizing; writer Omar El Akkad unpacks his award-winning novel What Strange Paradise and how writing fiction freed him after a decade-long career in journalism; and Seattle soul revivalists The Dip perform "Sure Don't Miss You."

Roman Mars & Kurt Kohlstedt of 99% Invisible, Shayla Lawson, and Colin Hay Dec 03, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss some mysteries we can never seem to solve; 99% Invisible podcasters Roman Mars & Kurt Kohlstedt unveil the hidden world of everyday design in their companion book The 99% Invisible City; writer Shayla Lawson takes the lead role in her new collection of essays This Is Major, in which she celebrates Black womanhood; and Colin Hay, former frontman of Men at Work, performs a moving acoustic version of their hit song "Overkill."

Gary Shteyngart, Atsuko Okatsuka, and The Lowest Pair Nov 26, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello discuss the kindest things our friends have done; author Gary Shteyngart takes us into the world of fictionalized friendship in his latest book Our Country Friends, already lauded as the Great American Pandemic Novel; comedian Atsuko Okatska explains why getting married is more childlike than staying single; and indie folk duo The Lowest Pair perform their brand new tune "Mount Rainier."

Ijeoma Oluo, Jill Lepore, and The Bengsons Nov 19, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello make some small wishes for the future; Jill Lepore, historian and staffer at The New Yorker, tells us about the first American company to predict voter behavior through the use of computers; writer Ijeoma Oluo envisions a future free from racism and sexism in her book Mediocre: The Dangerous Legacy of White Male America; and indie folk duo The Bengsons spread a little hope with their viral hit "The Keep Going Song."

Tom Scharpling, Mohanad Elshieky, and MAITA Nov 12, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reminisce about the best moments of the last 18 months; writer and radio host Tom Scharpling (The Best Show) explains how his dislike for Billy Joel began as a teenage misadventure to Madison Square Garden; comedian Mohanad Elshieky describes why navigating checkpoints is better than talking to his Uber driver; and indie rock group MAITA perform "A Beast" from their album Best Wishes.

Rachel Bloom, Natalie Diaz, and Kevin Morby Nov 05, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss unresolved (minor) childhood grievances; Emmy Award-winning entertainer Rachel Bloom (Crazy Ex-Girlfriend) makes the case against inside jokes in her new collection of essays I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are; Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Natalie Diaz explores the connection between poetry and basketball; and singer-songwriter Kevin Morby performs "Campfire" from his latest album Sundowner.

Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe, Todd Haynes, and Melanie Charles Oct 29, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal their go-to karaoke songs; Mötley Crüe co-founder and bassist Nikki Sixx describes how his love of storytelling propelled him from a small town kid to a heavy metal icon; Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Todd Haynes (Far from Heaven, Carol) unpacks his first documentary feature The Velvet Underground, which looks at the lasting legacy of the 1960s experimental rock group; and genre-bending powerhouse Melanie Charles performs a "reimagining" of Marlena Shaw's "Woman of the Ghetto" from her new album Y’all Don’t (Really) Care About Black Women.

Cristina Costantini & Kareem Tabsch and Anaïs Mitchell Oct 22, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get into the spooky season and share some memorable Halloween costumes; filmmakers Cristina Costantini & Kareem Tabsch reveal the man behind the cape in their Netflix documentary Mucho Mucho Amor about famed Puerto Rican astrologer Walter Mercado; and singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell takes us to the underworld of Greek mythology to discuss her Tony Award-winning folk opera Hadestown, before performing one of its hit tracks "Wedding Song."

Nick Offerman, Phoebe Robinson, and Adia Victoria Oct 15, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about household rules we struggle to enforce; actor and humorist Nick Offerman discusses his newest book Where the Deer and the Antelope Play and how he squares his life in Los Angeles with his agrarian sensibilities; comedian and "Dope Queen" Phoebe Robinson explains why no one is allowed to sit on her bed in their outdoor clothes; and singer-songwriter Adia Victoria describes how working at an Amazon fulfillment center gave her the space to write her newest album A Southern Gothic, before performing one of its haunting tracks "My Oh My."

Demi Adejuyigbe, Jamie Loftus, and The War and Treaty Oct 08, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discover what topics listeners would discuss on their hypothetical podcasts; comedian Jamie Loftus unpacks her Lolita Podcast, which reexamines the controversial literary classic through a feminist lens; comedian and television writer Demi Adejuyigbe (The Good Place, The Amber Ruffin Show) explains why he feels the creative pressure every September 21st; and powerhouse duo The War and Treaty perform the deeply personal song "Five More Minutes" from their latest album Hearts Town.

Marlee Matlin, Melissa Febos, and Ida Mae Oct 01, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share listener advice to their teenage selves; actor Marlee Matlin discusses her critically-acclaimed new film CODA and why she's advocating for Deaf actors to play Deaf roles; writer Melissa Febos opens up about her new collection of essays, Girlhood, which looks at the forces that shape the lives of girls and the adults they become; and British blues-folk duo Ida Mae performs the tender song "Raining for You" from their latest album Click Click Domino.

Mary Norris, Ryan O'Connell, and Dirty Revival Sep 24, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some favorite words submitted by listeners; grammar expert Mary Norris recounts her early days as a copy editor at The New Yorker and her foray into all things Greek; actor and television writer Ryan O’Connell explains how keeping his cerebral palsy a secret inspired his book and Netflix series Special; and soul-rock group Dirty Revival tear down the house with “Pipe Dreams.”

Mark Duplass & Natalie Morales, James Whiteside, and Dar Williams Sep 17, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some special skills that listeners dream of having; filmmakers Mark Duplass & Natalie Morales open up about forming a friendship while making the film Language Lessons, which they shot entirely on webcams; ballet dancer James Whiteside chats about his new memoir Center Center and the need for more queerness in classical ballet; and singer-songwriter and environmental activist Dar Williams explains why she's not sweating the headlines, before serenading us with "Time, Be My Friend" from her new album I'll Meet You Here.

Maria Bamford, Shain Brenden, and Brandy Clark Sep 10, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello consider the misconceptions our families have about us; comedian and actress Maria Bamford convinces us that anybody can create their own comedy special; stand-up comic Shain Brenden compares his former "single dad" status to a foreclosed home; and Grammy-nominated country singer-songwriter Brandy Clark spins her love of the film Jaws into the topical and heartfelt song "Bigger Boat."

Nichole Perkins, Lucy Walker, and Joshua Henry Sep 03, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate the songs lyrics that reflect our lives; writer Nichole Perkins discusses her memoir Sometimes I Trip On How Happy We Could Be and makes the case for why Niles Crane is sexy; Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Lucy Walker (Waste Land) unpacks her epic new documentary Bring You Own Brigade, which goes deep inside the devastation of California's wildfires; and Tony-nominated performer Joshua Henry (Hamilton) shows us how seductive our cellphones can be in his new song Guarantee.

Hari Kondabolu, Sarah Scoles, and Angelica Garcia Aug 27, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and guest announcer Hari Kondabolu admit to being undecided on matters of personal hygiene and bed-making; science journalist Sarah Scoles encounters some true believers at the International UFO Congress; and singer-songwriter Angelica Garcia performs "I Don't Believe in Death" from her album Cha Cha Palace.

SNL's Cecily Strong and Shad Aug 20, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello defy expectations this week; comedian Cecily Strong delves into her memoir This Will All Be Over Soon, which weaves themes of grief with moments of absurdity, like filming SNL with her phone during lockdown; Toronto rapper Shad chats about interviewing his heroes for the Emmy Award-winning Netflix series Hip-Hop Evolution and why he's fine with being the "nice guy" in rap music; plus, Shad performs "Out of Touch" from his prescient forthcoming album TAO.

Casey Cep, Matteo Lane, and Samantha Crain Aug 13, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk "do-overs" this week and hear from listeners about their finicky unfinished projects; New Yorker staff writer Casey Cep discusses her debut book Furious Hours, which follows a mysterious Alabama murder case that captivated beloved author Harper Lee; comedian Matteo Lane questions the job description of pharmacists; and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain details how her days as a child powerlifter prepared her for a life of touring, before performing "High Horse" from her album A Small Death.

Daisy Hernández and Wayne Coyne of The Flaming Lips Aug 06, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello fantasize about a post-pandemic life; writer Daisy Hernández unpacks her latest book The Kissing Bug, a reportage-meets-memoir which follows how Chagas disease affects Latinx communities; Wayne Coyne, frontman of The Flaming Lips, discusses playing a Covid-safe concert where both the band and the audience members are inside their own space bubbles; and we hear a performance of their hit song "Do You Realize" from inside the bubble.

Lindy West, Kirsten Johnson, and Leyla McCalla Jul 30, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk movies this week, including some countlessly watched favorites; New York Times opinion writer and bestselling author Lindy West unpacks why she's known as the official hater of Love, Actually; filmmaker Kirsten Johnson comes to terms with the life, death, and legacy of her father through her Netflix documentary Dick Johnson is Dead; and folk singer Leyla McCalla brings the musicality of Langston Hughes' poetry to life with "Song for a Dark Girl" from her recently re-released album Vari-Colored Songs.

Lulu Miller of Radiolab, Sopan Deb, and Moorea Masa Jul 23, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello touch on some fascinating things that are mystifying listeners; writer and Radiolab co-host Lulu Miller unpacks the problematic practices of turn-of-the-century taxonomist David Starr Jordan, the subject of her book Why Fish Don't Exist; comedian and New York Times contributor Sopan Deb discusses his memoir Missed Translations about reconnecting with his immigrant parents; and Moorea Masa performs her single "Honey."

Hanif Abdurraqib, Eula Biss, and Lydia Loveless Jul 16, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss personal theme songs; cultural critic and poet Hanif Abdurraqib describes how his playlist project 68to05 reflects the origins of his personal music fandom; author Eula Biss unpacks the intersection of homeownership and white privilege in her newest collection of essays Having and Being Had; and alt-country singer Lydia Loveless performs "Say My Name" from her latest album Daughter.

Lidia Yuknavitch, Atsuko Okatsuka, and The Black Tones Jul 09, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss what listeners have learned about themselves recently; writer Lidia Yuknavitch describes her latest collection of stories, titled Verge, as a series of devotionals to the outcasts among us; comedian Atsuko Okatsuka admits to her insecurities around teenage skateboarders; and Seattle-based rock group The Black Tones shred with "Mama! There's A Spider In My Room!" from their album Cobain & Cornbread.

Lori Gottlieb, Mitchell S. Jackson, Mohanad Elshieky, and Revel in Dimes Jul 02, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack some unpopular opinions; author and psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb explains the importance of delivering a “compassionate truth bomb” to loved ones in need; Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Mitchell S. Jackson discusses his latest book Survival Math, in which he revisits painful relationships with the women from his past; comedian Mohanad Elshieky riffs on reading the Bible as a Muslim; and Brooklyn blues group Revel in Dimes perform “Tough City for Love.”

Ashley C. Ford and Amigo the Devil Jun 25, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some hypothetical memoir titles penned by listeners; writer Ashely C. Ford discusses her celebrated debut book Somebody's Daughter, which follows her experience growing up in Indiana with an incarcerated father; and gothic folk icon Amigo the Devil explains how his fascination with the macabre has evolved, before performing a rollicking version of "24K Casket" from his newest album Born Against.

Adam Mansbach, Maya Forbes & China Forbes, and Kurt Braunohler Jun 18, 2021

In celebration of Father's Day, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some favorite fictional dads; writer Adam Mansbach discusses his path to publishing the hit "parenting" book series Go the F**k to Sleep; filmmaker Maya Forbes recounts being raised by her bipolar father, which inspired her film Infinitely Polar Bear; songstress China Forbes, of Pink Martini, performs The Northern Line from her sister's film; and comedian Kurt Braunohler offers his outrageous take on becoming a new father.

Chris Gethard, Clint Smith, and Faye Webster Jun 11, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get excited about reviving some summer traditions; comedian Chris Gethard chats about his new road-tripping comedy special Half My Life and why he made a pit stop at the dubious Gatorworld theme park; Clint Smith, staff writer at The Atlantic, unpacks his latest book How the Word Is Passed, which tours landmarks and monuments that have shaped the collective conversation around slavery; and indie folk artist Faye Webster performs "Better Distractions" from her new album I Know I'm Funny haha.

Daniel Lavery, Michael Arceneaux, and The Head and the Heart Jun 04, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some financial advice penned by listeners to their younger selves; writer and Slate advice columnist Daniel Lavery explains how his latest book, Something That May Shock and Discredit You, revisits the media and myths of his past through the lens of his transition; New York Times bestselling author Michael Arceneaux unpacks the hard truths of student loan debt in his newest essay collection I Don't Want to Die Poor; and Jonathan Russell from indie folk group The Head and the Heart performs "Glory of Music."

John Green and Dessa May 28, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some controversial 1-star reviews submitted by listeners; bestselling author and vlogger John Green (The Fault in our Stars) discusses his new collection of essays, The Anthropocene Reviewed, which expands upon his podcast to review different aspects of our human-shaped world, from Diet Dr. Pepper to sunsets; and rapper Dessa chats about her new monthly singles project, IDES, before performing her pitch-perfect track "Terry Gross."

Samantha Irby, Jackie Kashian, and Fantastic Negrito May 21, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk post-lockdown self-care; author and blogger Samantha Irby discusses her latest collection of essays Wow, No Thank You and settles some household disputes in the "Live Wire Court;" comedian Jackie Kashian casts doubt over the “empathic” abilities of her fellow comics; and Grammy Award-winning blues artist Fantastic Negrito takes us on a journey through his musical rebirth, before serenading us with "Nobody Makes Money."

Anna Sale, Elissa Washuta, and Juliana Hatfield May 14, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate the trivial things we spend too much time debating; podcaster Anna Sale reveals how she gets to the heart of the matter in her podcast Death, Sex & Money and in her new book Let's Talk About Hard Things; writer Elissa Washuta explains how magic and witchcraft helped her get sober, as detailed in her collection of essays White Magic; and indie rock icon Juliana Hatfield performs "Mouthful of Blood" from her new album Blood.

Barry Sonnenfeld, Saeed Jones, Laurie Kilmartin, and Alela Diane May 07, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate Mother's Day by sharing some favorite fictional moms submitted by listeners; award-winning writer Saeed Jones (How We Fight for Our Lives) talks about coming out to his mother; comedian Laurie Kilmartin delivers an outrageous set about single motherhood; filmmaker Barry Sonnenfeld chats about his complicated relationship with his mom, which he details in his memoir Barry Sonnenfeld, Call Your Mother; and singer-songwriter Alela Diance performs "Albatross" from her album Cusp, which explores her experience around becoming a parent.

Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast, Laci Mosley of Scam Goddess podcast, and Kishi Bashi Apr 30, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get nostalgic about childhood foods; comedian and podcaster Laci Mosley (A Black Lady Sketch Show, Scam Goddess) lends her expertise to real-life "sketchy" situations; musician Michelle Zauner, a.k.a. Japanese Breakfast, discusses her memoir Crying in H Mart, in which she reconnects with her late mother and their Korean heritage through a love of food; and multi-instrumentalist Kishi Bashi performs "Wait for Springtime" from his new EP Emigrant.

Cameron Esposito, Ross Gay, and The Lone Bellow Apr 23, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello relish in delightful things; comedian Cameron Esposito unpacks the ups and downs of making Zoom her comedy stage; poet Ross Gay ponders his fascination with themes of joy and gratitude, while chatting about his essay collection The Book of Delights; and indie folk trio The Lone Bellow share a song they wrote collaboratively while social distancing.

Quiara Alegría Hudes, Lauren Hough, and Black Violin Apr 16, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello consider some dream careers; playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes explains her love of the human voice and how eavesdropping has inspired her writing; essayist Lauren Hough recounts the various hats she's worn — including airman, cable installer, and cult member; and instrumental duo Black Violin ponder the balance they strike between hip hop and classical music.

Roger Reeves, Franny Choi, and Derrick Brown with The Helio Sequence Apr 09, 2021

To celebrate National Poetry Month, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share listener-penned haikus and invite three poets to the House Party; Roger Reeves tells us why poetry is the harbinger of the future; Franny Choi discusses how she incorporated Google Translate and the Turing Test into her latest collection Soft Science; and Derrick C. Brown teams up with indie band The Helio Sequence for a rhythmically-moving poetry performance.

Hanif Abdurraqib, Andrea Nevins, and Shakey Graves Apr 02, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reminisce with listeners about the most memorable live performances they've experienced; writer Hanif Abdurraqib discusses his new book A Little Devil in America, in which he unpacks the cultural and historical impact of Black performance; filmmaker Andrea Nevins shines a light on the challenges and triumphs of female comedians in her documentary Hysterical; and Americana singer-songwriter Shakey Graves celebrates the 10th anniversary of his debut album Roll the Bones by performing the title track.

Paula Poundstone, Joey Clift, and Jimmie Herrod Mar 26, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share hometown slogans penned by Live Wire listeners; comedian Paula Poundstone makes time to chat between walking her dogs and bleaching her house; comedy writer Joey Clift, creator of Our Fifty States Project, explains how he crowdsourced musicians to make an album for every state in the union; and jazz vocalist Jimmie Herrod performs a spring-inspired song he composed during lockdown in his Manhattan apartment.

Mikki Kendall, Jamie Loftus, and Pink Martini Mar 19, 2021

In honor of Women's History Month, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello celebrate amazing women through the ages; Mikki Kendall, author of Hood Feminism, explains how to right the historical wrongs of the mainstream feminist movement; comedian Jamie Loftus unpacks her Lolita Podcast, which reexamines the literary classic as a cautionary tale; and genre-bending musical group Pink Martini performs a cover of the 1970s hit "I Am Woman."

Shea Serrano, Brooks Wheelan & Nick Turner, and Waxahatchee Mar 12, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share listener acts of kindness; writer Shea Serrano discusses how he uses Twitter to raise funds for people in need, especially during the pandemic; comedian Brooks Wheelan recounts how he won a $500 bet with fellow comedian Nick Turner when he completed a marathon… hungover; and singer-songwriter Waxahatchee sings "Can't Do Much" off her album Saint Cloud.

Matthew Gavin Frank, Davy Rothbart & Cheryl Sanford, Andrew Bird & Jimbo Mathus Mar 05, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk birds of all kinds this week; writer Matthew Gavin Frank discusses the controversial world of diamond-smuggling pigeons; filmmaker Davy Rothbart and his subject Cheryl Sanford unpack 20 years of filming her family in their documentary 17 Blocks; and musicians Andrew Bird & Jimbo Mathus, former bandmates of the Squirrel Nut Zippers, perform "Sweet Oblivion" from their new collaborative album These 13.

Kevin Young, Ibtihaj Muhammad, Clyde W. Ford, and Amthyst Kiah Feb 26, 2021

This week Live Wire celebrates Black History Month with groundbreaking Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, who reminds us of the power in self-belief; New Yorker poetry editor Kevin Young on his love of Jack Johnson, Prince, and pork; writer Clyde W. Ford, whose book Think Black outlines his father's experience as the first black software engineer in America; and a powerhouse performance from Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Amythyst Kiah.

Talib Kweli, George Saunders, and Jillette Johnson Feb 19, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello put a spin on some of our listeners’ favorite words and phrases; hip hop performer and activist Talib Kweli recounts stepping away from big-budget rap culture to become an independent artist; bestselling author George Saunders revisits his love of teaching through unpacking 19th century Russian literature; and singer-songwriter Jillette Johnson performs her incidentally-titled song "I Shouldn't Go Anywhere."

Naomi Ekperigin, Anis Mojgani, and The War and Treaty Feb 12, 2021

In celebration of Valentine's Day, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello give some love to the inanimate objects that get us through life; comedian Naomi Ekperigin, who co-hosts the podcast Couples Therapy with her partner, riffs on her reluctance towards motherhood; Poet Laureate of Oregon Anis Mojgani rewrites a love poem to reflect his post-divorce reality; and husband and wife duo The War and Treaty perform their heart-wrenching song "Five More Minutes."

David Duchovny, Nick & Kaylee Woodard, and Jensen McRae Feb 05, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unveil some hidden talents; actor and best-selling author David Duchovny explains how his latest novel Truly Like Lightning is an attempt to have a larger conversation about America; jump rope world champions Nick and Kaylee Woodard test Luke's skills with a virtual lesson; and alt-folk artist Jensen McRae performs her harrowing new song "Wolves."

Nora McInerny, Jon Mooallem, and Wilco's Jeff Tweedy Jan 29, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the silliest ways listeners are getting through quarantine; grief expert and podcaster Nora McInerny offers tips on parenting during a pandemic; writer Jon Mooallem (The New York Times Magazine) discusses the survival lessons we can glean from his latest book about the 1964 Alaskan earthquake; and Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy serenades us with "Save It For Me," which he penned in the early stages of lockdown.

Dead Eyes podcaster Connor Ratliff, Dr. Carl Hart, and Ani DiFranco Jan 22, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello recount the most impactful things anyone has ever said to them; actor Connor Ratliff explains how being fired by Tom Hanks inspired his hit podcast Dead Eyes, through which he unpacks showbiz rejection; professor of neuroscience Dr. Carl Hart makes the argument for responsible drug use; and folk icon and activist Ani DiFranco reflects on making her 22nd album Revolutionary Love with masked musicians during a pandemic.

Dani Shapiro, Chris Garcia, and Casey Neill & The Norway Rats Jan 15, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal some surprising facts about their parents; author Dani Shapiro explains how a mail-in DNA test revealed a family secret, which formed the basis of her New York Times bestseller Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love; comedian and podcaster Chris Garcia pokes fun at his life choices by channeling his Cuban father; and Casey Neill & The Norway Rats perform “Savages” from their album Subterrene.

Roman Mars & Kurt Kohlstedt, Shayla Lawson, and Colin Hay Jan 08, 2021

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss the mysteries they can never seem to solve; 99% Invisible podcasters Roman Mars & Kurt Kohlstedt unveil the hidden world of everyday design in their companion book The 99% Invisible City; writer Shayla Lawson takes the lead role in her new collection of essays This Is Major, in which she celebrates black womanhood; and Colin Hay, former frontman of Men at Work, performs an acoustic version of their hit song "Overkill."

Shaughnessy Bishop-Stall, Jenny Bruso, and LaRhonda Steele Jan 01, 2021

In this celebratory New Year's special episode, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello make their resolutions for 2021; author and journalist Shaughnessy Bishop-Stall describes his gonzo attempts to find a cure for the hangover; Unlikely Hikers founder Jenny Bruso expands upon her mission to make the outdoors more accessible for all; and Portland's "First Lady of the Blues" LaRhonda Steele soars with a cover of Nina Simone's "Feeling Good."

Holiday Special: Thomas Middleditch & Ben Schwartz, Atsuko Okatsuka, and Amthyst Kiah Dec 23, 2020

In this "Best of 2020" holiday special, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello confess to being both naughty and nice this year; actors Thomas Middleditch and Ben Schwartz discuss the secrets behind creating their long-form improv comedy series; comedian Atsuko Okatsuka shares a gut-busting anecdote about getting too close to a stranger's dog; and Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Amythyst Kiah performs "Firewater."

Ian Karmel, Al Letson, Caitlin Kunkel, and Laura Gibson Dec 18, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello describe their dream lives; comedian Ian Karmel (The Late Late Show with James Cordon) takes down the masculinity of men's grooming products; Al Letson, host of investigative radio show Reveal, revisits an uncomfortable encounter with a far-right protester; writer Caitlin Kunkel tells us what women really want in her book New Erotica for Feminists: Satirical Fantasies of Love, Lust, and Equal Pay; and singer-songwriter Laura Gibson performs "Tenderness" from her latest album Goners.

Ijeoma Oluo, Jill Lepore, and The Bengsons Dec 11, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello make some small wishes for the future; Jill Lepore, historian and staffer at The New Yorker, tells us about the first American company to predict voter behavior through the use of computers; writer Ijeoma Oluo envisions a future free from racism and sexism in her book Mediocre: The Dangerous Legacy of White Male America; and indie folk duo The Bengsons spread a little hope with their viral hit "The Keep Going Song."

Abbi Jacobson, Nicole Chung, and The Dip Dec 04, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello dream up their post-pandemic travels; star and co-creator of Broad City Abbi Jacobson recounts the highs and lows her solo cross-country road trip, as illustrated in her New York Times bestselling essay collection I Might Regret This; writer Nicole Chung discusses her journey to discover the difficult truth behind her own adoption, which formed the basis of her debut book All You Can Ever Know; and seven-piece soul ensemble The Dip perform their single “Atlas.”

Rachel Bloom, Natalie Diaz, and Kevin Morby Nov 27, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello give gratitude to some of their favorite things; Emmy Award-winning entertainer Rachel Bloom (Crazy Ex-Girlfriend) makes the case against inside jokes in her new collection of essays I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are; MacArthur Fellow and poet Natalie Diaz explores the connection between poetry and basketball; and singer-songwriter Kevin Morby performs "Campfire" from his latest album Sundowner.

Phoebe Robinson, Thomas Page McBee, and Sammy Brue Nov 20, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello describe the small things they've recently accepted; memoirist Thomas Page McBee shares what he learned about masculinity while training to become the first transgender man to box at Madison Square Garden; Dope Queen Phoebe Robinson reflects on managing debt and embracing "trash" culture; and Americana wunderkind Sammy Brue performs "Our Garden" from his EP Down with Desperation.

Lindy West, Kirsten Johnson, and Leyla McCalla Nov 14, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello chat about the movies they've watched countless times; New York Times opinion writer and bestselling author Lindy West unpacks why she's known as the official hater of Love, Actually; filmmaker Kirsten Johnson comes to terms with the life, death, and legacy of her father through her Netflix documentary Dick Johnson is Dead; and folk singer Leyla McCalla brings the musicality of Langston Hughes' poetry to life with "Song for a Dark Girl" from her recently re-released album Vari-Colored Songs.

Jose Antonio Vargas, Danez Smith, and Angelica Garcia Nov 06, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share their most effective coping mechanisms during stressful times; journalist and activist Jose Antonio Vargas recounts coming out as an undocumented immigrant with the publication of his memoir Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen; poet Danez Smith praises personal heroes in their poem “My President;” and singer-songwriter Angelica Garcia performs the one-woman version of her song "It Don't Hinder Me."

Cristina Costantini & Kareem Tabsch, and Anaïs Mitchell Oct 30, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reminisce about their most memorable Halloween costumes; filmmakers Cristina Costantini & Kareem Tabsch reveal the man behind the cape in their Netflix documentary Mucho Mucho Amor about famed Puerto Rican astrologer Walter Mercado; and singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell takes us to the underworld of Greek mythology to discuss her Tony Award-winning folk opera Hadestown, before performing one of its hit tracks "Wedding Song."

Tommy Pico, Eli Saslow, Emily Heller, and The Helio Sequence Oct 23, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get rid of some unnecessary things; poet Tommy Pico explains how writing as his alter ego "Teebs" allows him to be less self-censoring in his work; journalist Eli Saslow discusses Derek Black – the subject of his book Rising Out of Hatred – and how the once-heir to the white nationalist movement made a stunning transformation; comedian Emily Heller spins gut-busting analogies to online dating; and indie rock duo The Helio Sequence performs “Lately” from their album Keep Your Eyes Ahead.

Lulu Miller, Sopan Deb, and Moorea Masa Oct 16, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the small things that fascinate them; writer and Radiolab co-host Lulu Miller unpacks the problematic practices of turn-of-the-century taxonomist David Starr Jordan; comedian and New York Times contributor Sopan Deb discusses his memoir Missed Translations about reconnecting with his immigrant parents; and Moorea Masa performs her latest single "Honey."

Tessa Fontaine, Abdi Nor Iftin, Moses Storm, and Laura Veirs Oct 09, 2020

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello relive some of their greatest escapes; writer and former sideshow performer Tessa Fontaine explains how learning to eat fire helped mend her broken heart; comedian and actor Moses Storm riffs on why he and his mom once had the same platinum blonde hairdo; memoirist and green card lottery winner Abdi Nor Iftin recounts his journey from war-torn Somalia to rural Maine; and singer-songwriter Laura Veirs performs “Margaret Sands” from her album The Lookout.

Demi Adejuyigbe, Drew Magary, and The War and Treaty Oct 02, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello divulge some particularly small skills they've never been able to master; comedian and television writer Demi Adejuyigbe (The Good Place, The Amber Ruffin Show) explains why he feels the creative pressure every September 21st; journalist Drew Magary sets out to improve his terrible handwriting; and powerhouse duo The War and Treaty perform the moving song "Five More Minutes" from their soulful new album Hearts Town.

Chapman & MacLain Way, Ahmed Bharoocha, Raley Schweinfurth, and Ron Artis II & The Truth Sep 25, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reflect on what they still have faith in during these uncertain times; Chapman & MacLain Way, creators of the Netflix docuseries Wild Wild Country, discuss the incredible true story behind the followers of guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, who established a controversial commune in 1980s rural Oregon; comedian Ahmed Bharoocha questions the flight training program for baby crows; high school student Raley Schweinfurth explains her award-winning efforts to save Portland’s bees; and Hawaiian soul group Ron Artis II & The Truth perform “Searching for Answers.”

Hanif Abdurraqib, Eula Biss, and Lydia Loveless Sep 18, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal their personal theme songs; cultural critic and poet Hanif Abdurraqib describes how his playlist project 68to05 reflects the origins of his personal music fandom; author Eula Biss unpacks the intersection of homeownership and white privilege in her newest collection of essays Having and Being Had; and alt-country singer Lydia Loveless performs "Say My Name" from her latest album Daughter.

Timothy Egan, Jeanette Ward, and Pure Bathing Culture Sep 11, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello tell stories of risks they've taken; Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Timothy Egan unpacks his relationship to faith during a thousand-mile trek across Europe that inspired his new book A Pilgrimage to Eternity; activist Jeannette Ward Horton discusses her organization NuLeaf, which advocates for minority inclusion in the legal cannabis industry; and indie pop duo Pure Bathing Culture perform "All Night" from their latest album Night Pass.

Maria Bamford, Nore Davis, and Brandy Clark Sep 04, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello consider what misconceptions their families have about them; comedian Maria Bamford convinces us that anybody can create their own comedy special; stand-up comedian Nore Davis riffs on the secret lives of school teachers and rescue animals; and country singer-songwriter Brandy Clark spins her love of the film Jaws into a relevant and heartfelt new song, aptly titled "Bigger Boat."

Chioke l’Anson, Leah Sottile, and Justin Townes Earle Aug 28, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what they wish they had been talked out of; Chioke I’Anson, the voice of NPR’s underwriting, admits to feeling self-conscious about the sound of his own voice; journalist Leah Sottile unpacks the symbiotic relationship between the federal government and fringe patriot groups, as investigated in her podcast Bundyville; and we pay tribute to the late singer-songwriter Justin Townes Earle by sharing his 2017 performance of "Maybe a Moment."

W. Kamau Bell, Julia Rosen, and Samantha Crain Aug 21, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello go down some internet rabbit holes; W. Kamau Bell breaks down the difference between white supremacy and white supremacists on his CNN documentary series United Shades of America; science reporter Julia Rosen schools us on the invasive nature of earthworms; and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain details how her days as a child powerlifter prepared her for a life of touring, before performing "High Horse" from her album A Small Death.

John Hodgman, Jon Mooallem, and Allen Stone Aug 14, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello give themselves some pre-pandemic advice; humorist John Hodgman ponders themes of fame, prestige and airline mileage, as outlined in his new book Medallion Status: True Stories from Secret Rooms; writer Jon Mooallem takes a deep dive into the inner-workings of his meditative podcast Walking; and soul singer Allen Stone performs “Brown Eyed Lover” from his album Building Balance.

Hari Kondabolu, Sarah Scoles, Angelica Garcia Aug 07, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and guest announcer Hari Kondabolu admit to being undecided on matters of personal hygiene and bed-making; science journalist Sarah Scoles encounters some true believers at the International UFO Congress; and singer-songwriter Angelica Garcia performs I Don't Believe in Death from her latest album "Cha Cha Palace."

Jami Attenberg, James Kim, and Federale Jul 31, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss how they've been staying in touch with their loved ones during lockdown; author Jami Attenberg unpacks the complexities of American families in her new book All This Could Be Yours; podcaster James Kim explains how language barriers and silence are used as narrative tools in his fictional podcast Moonface; and psychedelic rock group Federale perform the title track from their album "No Justice."

Lidia Yuknavitch, Atsuko Okatsuka, and The Black Tones Jul 24, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss what they've learned about themselves recently; writer Lidia Yuknavitch describes her latest collection of stories as a series of devotionals to the outcasts among us; comedian Atsuko Okatsuka admits to her insecurities around teenagers; and rock group The Black Tones perform "Mama! There's A Spider In My Room!"

Ross Gay, Casey Cep, and Colin Hay Jul 10, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello tell us about their simple delights; poet Ross Gay ponders his fascination with the themes of joy and gratitude; Casey Cep, staff writer for The New Yorker, discusses her debut book about a mysterious Alabama murder case that captivated beloved author Harper Lee; and Colin Hay, formerly of Men at Work, performs "Come Tumblin' Down" off his album "Fierce Mercy."

James Veitch, Allison Breed, and Chasity Brown Jun 26, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what they're most nostalgic for; comedian James Veitch explains his crusade to antagonize email scams, as outlined in his book "Dot Con: The Art of Scamming a Scammer;" scent archivist Allison Breed discusses how she created the Male Scent Catalogue on Twitter, which documents how the essence of male characters are described in romance novels; and singer-songwriter Chastity Brown performs her soaring song "Curiosity."

"Live Wire House Party" with Thomas Middleditch, Ben Schwartz, and Shakey Graves Jun 12, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share their honored summer traditions; comedians Thomas Middleditch and Ben Schwartz discuss the secrets behind creating their long-form improv comedy series; and Americana singer-songwriter Shakey Graves chats about the genesis of his trademark “suitcase drum," before performing his song "Dining Alone."

"Live Wire House Party" with Ijeoma Oluo, Danez Smith, and Amythyst Kiah Jun 05, 2020

In response to nationwide protests against police brutality, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share conversations with writer Ijeoma Oluo, who unpacks the themes of systemic racism in her book "So You Want to Talk About Race;" poet Danez Smith, who explains how they're looking for leadership elsewhere in their poem “My President;” and singer-songwriter Amythyst Kiah, who performs her Grammy-nominated song “Black Myself."

"Live Wire House Party" with Daniel M. Ortberg, Michael Arceneaux, and Prom Queen May 29, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal how their self-improvement goals have progressed; writer and Dear Prudence advice columnist Daniel M. Ortberg explains how his new book, "Something That May Shock and Discredit You," revisits the media and myths of his past through the lens of his transition; New York Times best-selling author Michael Arceneaux unpacks the hard truths of student loan debt; and doom-wop singer Prom Queen performs "End of the World."

"Live Wire House Party" with Clint Smith, Waxahatchee, and a Tribute to Lynn Shelton May 22, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello pen their own commencement speeches and perform them to a few graduating high school seniors; writer and scholar Clint Smith discusses how he defended his Harvard dissertation over Zoom to a virtual audience of friends and family; Luke pays tribute to filmmaker and friend of the show Lynn Shelton, who passed away recently; and singer-songwriter Waxahatchee sings "Can't Do Much" from her studio in Kansas City.

"Live Wire House Party" with François Clemmons and Joey Clift May 15, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share small wins they've accomplished; François Clemmons, famously known as Officer Clemmons on "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," discusses how Fred Rogers became a mentor and father figure to him during personally turbulent times; comedy writer Joey Clift explains how he painstakingly crowdsourced musicians to make an album for every state in the union... a feat which was promised (yet never finished) by singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens; and Luke and Elena try their hands at writing and performing their own regional songs.

"Live Wire House Party" with Luke & Elena’s Moms, Barry Sonnenfeld, and Fantastic Negrito May 08, 2020

In honor of Mother's Day, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello invite their moms on the show to discuss how their daily routines have changed since lockdown; filmmaker Barry Sonnenfeld shares anecdotes on his complicated relationship with his mother, working with the Coen Brothers, and leg wrestling Will Smith; and Grammy Award-winning blues artist Fantastic Negrito takes us on a journey through his musical rebirth, before serenading us with his song, "Nobody Makes Money."

"Live Wire House Party" with Cameron Esposito, Claude Taylor, and The Lone Bellow May 01, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello choose their ideal fictional characters to join them in lockdown; comedian Cameron Esposito unpacks the ups and downs of making Zoom her new comedy stage; Claude Taylor, who launched the Twitter feed @ratemyskyperoom, critiques Luke's home studio background; and The Lone Bellow share a new song they collaborated on while social distancing.

"Live Wire House Party" with Samantha Irby, Francis Lam, and Mandy Moore Apr 24, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss what listeners are not missing during lockdown; author and blogger Samantha Irby settles some household disputes in the "Live Wire Court;" Francis Lam, food journalist and host of The Splendid Table podcast, offers tips on how to elevate a grilled cheese sandwich; and singer-actress Mandy Moore is joined by her husband Taylor Goldsmith to perform "If That's What It Takes" from her latest album "Silver Landings."

"Live Wire House Party" with Paula Poundstone, Deanna Everson, and The Head and The Heart Apr 17, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share stories of acts of kindness they've witnessed recently; comedian Paula Poundstone makes time to chat between walking her dogs and bleaching her house; hair stylist and salon owner Deanna Everson virtually coaches Luke through a home haircut; and Jonathan Russell of The Head and The Heart performs "Glory of Music."

"Live Wire House Party" with Nora McInerny, Saeed Jones, and Wilco's Jeff Tweedy Apr 10, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal those unexpected things that are getting them through this time; writer and podcaster Nora McInerny offers insight into parenting during a pandemic; poet Saeed Jones explains his decision to adopt a dog while in self-isolation; and Jeff Tweedy, of renowned alt-rock band Wilco, performs a collaborative tune with his two sons titled "Save it For Me."

"Live Wire House Party" with Shea Serrano, Brooks Wheelan, Nick Turner, and Jimmie Herrod Apr 03, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share what they've learned about themselves since being stuck inside; author Shea Serrano discusses how he uses Twitter to raise funds for people in need; comedian Brooks Wheelan recounts how he won a $500 bet with fellow comedian Nick Turner when he completed a marathon… hungover; and jazz vocalist Jimmie Herrod performs a springtime-inspired song he wrote while isolated in his Manhattan apartment.

"Live Wire House Party" with Cheryl Strayed, Jon Mooallem, and Miniature Tigers Mar 27, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello admit to wanting more nonessential items while being homebound; Dear Sugar advice columnist and acclaimed writer Cheryl Strayed answers listener questions on how to cope in these complicated times; author Jon Mooallem discusses the survival lessons we can glean from his topical new book "This Is Chance!: The Shaking of an All-American City, A Voice That Held It Together;" and we hear a new track from Charlie Brand, of indie-pop band Miniature Tigers, plus find out how he’s composing a break-up album in the midst of a lockdown.

"Mic Check" with Emily Flake, Eileen Myles, and Giant in the Trees Mar 21, 2020

In this "Mic Check" special edition of the "Live Wire House Party" series, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello record the show from their homes and discover the silver lining of self-isolation; Emily Flake, cartoonist for The New Yorker, teaches us the art of the awkward hug; master poet Eileen Myles takes on the presidency in a reading of their epic poem "Acceptance Speech;" and indie rock group Giants in the Trees, featuring Nirvana’s Krist Novoselic, perform their latest single “It Goes.”

"Leap of Faith" with Timothy Egan, Adam Pasi, Jeanette Ward Horton, and Pure Bathing Culture Mar 13, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello tell stories of risks they've taken; Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Timothy Egan unpacks his relationship to faith during a thousand-mile trek across Europe that inspired his new book "A Pilgrimage to Eternity;" activist Jeannette Ward Horton discusses her organization NuLeaf, which advocates for minority inclusion in the legal cannabis industry; comedian Adam Pasi argues for the superiority of the Samoas Girl Scout cookie; and indie pop duo Pure Bathing Culture perform "All Night" from their latest album "Night Pass."

"Voice of Reason" with Chioke l’Anson, Leah Sottile, and Joseph Feb 28, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello swap stories about their failed musical auditions; Chioke I’Anson, the voice of NPR’s underwriting, admits to feeling self-conscious about the sound of his own voice; journalist Leah Sottile unpacks the symbiotic relationship between the federal government and fringe patriot groups, as investigated in her podcast Bundyville; and indie folk trio Joseph perform “Green Eyes” from their new album "Good Luck, Kid."

"Flights of Fancy" with John Hodgman, Jon Mooallem, and Allen Stone Feb 14, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello assess the most unrealistic things on their bucket lists; humorist John Hodgman ponders themes of fame, prestige and airline mileage, as outlined in his new book “Medallion Status: True Stories from Secret Rooms;” journalist and podcaster Jon Mooallem takes a deep dive into the inner-workings of this tranquil podcast “Walking;” and soul singer Allen Stone performs “Brown Eyed Lover” from his album “Building Balance.”

"All in the Family" with Jami Attenberg, James Kim, Bonnie Morales, and Federale Jan 31, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello describe their family crests; author Jami Attenberg struggles to feel compassion for the patriarch in her new book "All This Could Be Yours;" producer James Kim explains how language barriers and silence are used as narrative tools in his fictional podcast Moonface; chef Bonnie Morales discusses how her Belarusian background inspired the celebrated restaurant Kachka; and psychedelic rock group Federale perform the title track from their album "No Justice."

"In Our Feelings" with Mo Rocca, Heather Christle, and Jimmie Herrod Jan 17, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello riff on the ways they cheer themselves up; humorist, journalist, and actor Mo Rocca explains select chapters from his new book "Mobituaries: Great Lives Worth Reliving," in which he memorializes fascinating people (and objects) from history who didn't receive the send-off they deserved; poet and writer Heather Christle takes a deep dive into the art and act of crying – why we do it and even how tears reflect systems of power; and jazz vocalist Jimmie Herrod performs “Anything at All” from his new album "Falling in Love and Learning to Love Myself."

"Larger Than Life" with Saeed Jones, Kristen Arnett, and Ages and Ages Jan 03, 2020

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share their fanciest little habits; writer and poet Saeed Jones reflects on growing up black and gay in North Texas and why coming out is still challenging for many people in America today; Kristen Arnett, author of "Mostly Dead Things," argues that everything is taxidermy, including our reconstructed memories; and indie rock band Ages and Ages perform “Needle and Thread.”

"Truth Be Told" with Tim O'Brien, Mira Jacob, and Edna Vazquez Dec 20, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello tell us a secret; author Tim O’Brien explains his latest work, "Dad’s Maybe Book," as a series of letters and observations to help bridge the age gap between himself and his sons; writer Mira Jacob unpacks the process of creating her graphic memoir, "Good Talk," through which she taught herself how to draw to communicate difficult conversations about identity; and virtuoso singer and guitarist Edna Vazquez performs her new song “Monita.”

"Drawing the Line" with Emily Flake, Dave Hill, and Giants in the Trees Dec 06, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss where they "Draw the Line" in life; Emily Flake, illustrator for The New Yorker, teaches us the art of the awkward hug; comedian Dave Hill recounts the journey to discover his Canadian roots, as outlined in his new book "Parking the Moose;" and indie rock group Giants in the Trees, featuring Nirvana’s Krist Novoselic, perform their latest single “It Goes.”

"Love Language" with Irene Taylor Brodsky, Matthew Zapruder, and Bodies on the Beach Nov 22, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal their personal “Love Languages;” documentary filmmaker Irene Taylor Brodsky discusses her new film "Moonlight Sonata," which follows her deaf son as he attempts to master Beethoven’s famed composition; poet Matthew Zapruder speaks on employing anger as a literary emotion in his latest collection "Father’s Day;" and indie rock group Bodies on the Beach perform their new single “Ghost.”

"No Place Like Home" with Dina Nayeri, Adam Mansbach, Shain Brenden, and LaRhonda Steele Nov 08, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello describe the moments that make them feel most at home; writer Dina Nayeri discusses the immigrant experience from interviews in her new book "The Ungrateful Refugee" and fleeing Iran herself as a child; author Adam Mansbach reflects on the surprise success of his children's book parody series; comedian Shain Brenden compares his former "single dad" status to a foreclosed home; and Portland's first lady of blues, LaRhonda Steele, soars through a cover of Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good.”

"Leaving A Legacy" with Megan Phelps-Roper, Joe Kwaczala, Xiomara Torres, and Chastity Brown Oct 25, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello write their respective epitaphs; Megan Phelps-Roper, writer and former member of the Westboro Baptist Church, recounts how she left the notorious hate-driven cult and found the path of redemption; comedian Joe Kwaczala pokes fun at online dating as a short man; Xiomara Torres recounts how she became a Multnomah County judge after aging-out of foster care; and singer-songwriter Chastity Brown performs "Boston."

"Social Studies" with Chuck Klosterman, Tiffany Midge, and Tacocat Oct 11, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share stories of fictional and nonfictional dissertations; writer Chuck Klosterman explains why a puma in an airplane bathroom appears in his newest collection "Raised in Captivity;" humorist Tiffany Midge pokes holes in the notion of the “contemporary” Native writer; and indie pop group Tacocat performs “Grains of Salt” from their latest album "This Mess Is a Place."

"Origin Stories" with Rhys Darby, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Ahamefule J. Oluo, and Cataldo Sep 27, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share the superpowers they would most like to possess; comedian Rhys Darby schools us on the secret underwater continent of Zealandia; comic book writer Kelly Sue DeConnick explains how she uncovers the humanity in her superhero characters; theater artist Ahamefule Oluo admits that performing a one-man show about his mother is sometimes awkward… especially when she’s in the audience; and indie rocker Cataldo teams up with Oluo to perform “When You First See the Waves” from the new album "Literally Main Street."

"The Last Laugh" with Josh Gondelman, Clyde W. Ford, Alex Borsuk & Kaytlyn Gerbin, and The Lowest Pair Sep 13, 2019

Host Luke Burbank recounts how a garter snake got “The Last Laugh” when it refused to leave his dining room; comedian Josh Gondelman attempts to be a nice guy in the competitive world of comedy; author Clyde W. Ford reflects on his father’s career as the first black software engineer in the nation; endurance athletes Alex Borsuk and Kaytlyn Gerbin discuss how they broke a record by conquering Mount Rainier’s Infinity Loop; and Americana duo The Lowest Pair perform “Rosie” from their album “The Sacred Heart Sessions.”

"Poetic License" with Pete Holmes, Franny Choi, and Pink Martini Aug 30, 2019

In this special Live Wire episode, host Luke Burbank catches up with comedian Pete Holmes on his "Comedy Sex God" book tour, where he explains how TV success took him in a new spiritual direction; poet Franny Choi discusses how she incorporated Google Translate and the Turing Test into her latest collection "Soft Science;" and powerhouse vocalist Jimmie Herrod, with Pink Martini, performs a rendition of the classic ballad “The Exodus Song.”

Courtenay Hameister (Short) Aug 16, 2019

Humorist and former Live Wire host Courtenay Hameister reads from her recent nonfiction book "Okay Fine Whatever: The Year I Went from Being Afraid of Everything to Only Being Afraid of Most Things," which is a semi-finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor. Courtenay shared this essay on stage during Live Wire's 15th anniversary show in June 2019 at Revolution Hall in Portland, Oregon.

"Milestones" with Lindy West, Dave Hill, and Pink Martini Aug 02, 2019

Celebrating Live Wire’s 15th anniversary, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello give advice to their 15-year-old selves; writer and TV creator Lindy West explains why she is not the lead character in her Hulu series "Shrill;" comedian Dave Hill demonstrates how making mother jokes will get you kicked off of Twitter; and genre-crossing musical group Pink Martini perform the first song they ever wrote, the French language “Sympathique.”

"Other Worlds" with W. Kamau Bell, Karen Russell, and Kishi Bashi Jul 19, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello contemplate a life on Mars; acclaimed author Karen Russell explains why she creates fantastical worlds in her stories to get at truth; comedian and television host W. Kamau Bell describes how his CNN show "United Shades of America" is really about gentrification; and multi-instrumentalist Kishi Bashi performs “Summer of ’42” from his latest album "Omoiyari."

"Finding Your Voice" with Paul F. Tompkins, Anuradha Bhagwati, and Patterson Hood Jul 05, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share their personal catchphrases; comedian Paul F. Tompkins impersonates iconic German filmmaker Werner Herzog to review his local Trader Joe’s; author and activist Anuradha Bhagwati discusses the challenges women face for equal treatment in the Marines; and singer-songwriter Patterson Hood performs “21st Century USA.”

"Wild Cards" with Eula Scott Bynoe & Jeannie Yandel, Kurt Braunohler, Lara Prior-Palmer, and Lavender Country Jun 21, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal their wild sides; podcasters Eula Scott Bynoe and Jeannie Yandel discuss why their show “Battle Tactics For Your Sexist Workplace” is always relevant; comedian Kurt Braunohler admits that becoming a new father finally put his “dad looks” to good use; Mongol derby winner Lara Prior-Palmer explains how she became the first woman to win the longest horse race on earth; and the world's first gay country band Lavender Country perform, “I Can’t Shake the Stranger Out of You.”

"Getting to the Point" with Michael Ian Black, Melissa Febos, Ibtihaj Muhammad, and Dirty Revival Jun 07, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss the pop songs they think really “get to the point" of life; actor and comedian Michael Ian Black proves the low barrier into podcasting with his show Obscure; writer Melissa Febos calculates the personal risks of writing confessional memoirs; fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad explains how her childhood ambition carried her all the way to the Olympic podium; and soul-rock group Dirty Revival perform “Pipe Dreams.”

"Figure of Speech" with Mary Norris, Ryan O'Connell, Jackie Kashian, and The Get Ahead May 24, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share their favorite words, both literally and figuratively; actor and television writer Ryan O’Connell explains how keeping his cerebral palsy a secret inspired his book and Netflix series "Special;" grammar expert Mary Norris recounts her early days at The New Yorker and her foray into all things Greek; comedian Jackie Kashian isn’t buying the “empathic” abilities of her fellow comics; and soul-rock group The Get Ahead perform “Deepest Light.”

"Not Too Distant Future" with Senator Jeff Merkley, Anis Mojgani, Joe Zimmerman, Afrovivalist, and Ron Artis II & The Truth May 10, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss doing away with minor annoyances in the “Not Too Distant Future;” U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon describes how partisan politics have gotten personal; poet Anis Mojgani laments his love-hate relationship with the possum; Sharon Ross, aka Afrovivalist, tells us how she prepares for eminent disaster; comedian Joe Zimmerman explains why his credit card purchases are the perfect alibi; and Hawaiian soul group Ron Artis II & The Truth perform “Carry Me Along” from their album from "Soul Street."

"Balancing Acts" with Pam Houston, Naomi Ekperigin, Nadya Okamoto, and Shook Twins Apr 26, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal their personal “Balancing Acts;” author Pam Houston reconciles her great love of the natural world and the challenges of living within it, as outlined in her latest book "Deep Creek: Finding Hope in the High Country;" comedian Naomi Ekperigin talks couples therapy for comedians; entrepreneur and social activist Nadya Okamoto explains why she ignited the “menstrual movement;” and Shook Twins perform “Safe” from their album "Some Good Lives."

"Real Talk" with Mitchell S. Jackson, Lori Gottlieb, Mohanad Elshieky, and Revel in Dimes Apr 12, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello get down to some “Real Talk;” writer Mitchell S. Jackson discusses how – in his latest book “Survival Math” – he uses men of history to frame his own painful relationships with women of his past; author and psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb explains the importance of delivering a “compassionate truth bomb” to loved ones in need; comedian Mohanad Elshieky recounts how his confrontation with the border control on a Greyhound bus went viral; and blues-rock group Revel in Dimes perform “Tough City for Love.”

Elena Passarello (Short) Mar 29, 2019

This podcast short features the original interview with award-winning writer Elena Passarello who, after this appearance, became Live Wire's announcer. Elena is the author of two books of nonfiction, "Let Me Clear My Throat" (2012) and "Animals Strike Curious Poses" (2017). She is also the first female winner of the annual "Stanley and Stella Shouting Contest" held in New Orleans. Listen to this podcast to hear Elena's winning scream! And stay tuned for a song by folk rock singer This is The Kit, who performed on Live Wire in 2017.

"Ice Breakers" with Colin O'Brady, Dani Shapiro, Chris Garcia, and Casey Neill & The Norway Rats Mar 15, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss not-so-classic “Ice Breakers;” endurance athlete and adventurer Colin O’Brady recounts his world record-breaking trek across Antarctica; author Dani Shapiro explains how a mail-in DNA test revealed a deep-seeded family secret; comedian Chris Garcia pokes fun at his life choices by channeling his hard-working Cuban father; and Casey Neill & The Norway Rats perform “Savages” from their album “Subterrene.”

"Going Rogue" with Geraldine DeRuiter, Matteo Lane, Makini Howell, and Valley Maker Mar 01, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack the concept of “Going Rogue;” blogger Geraldine DeRuiter of The Everywhereist explains why she hangs onto things that spark rage; comedian Matteo Lane debates the job description of pharmacists; Seattle chef Makini Howell describes why she's an advocate of inclusive vegan cuisine; and Valley Maker performs “Beautiful Birds Flying” from their latest album “Rhododendron.”

"Buggin' Out" Hanif Abdurraqib, Nora McInerny, Nore Davis, and Alela Diane Feb 15, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss what it means to be “Buggin’ Out” in their forties; music writer and New York Times bestselling author Hanif Abdurraqib explains how music is a vehicle for writing about life on the periphery; grief expert and podcaster Nora McInerny comments on the intersection of grief and desire; comedian Nore Davis riffs on the secret lives of school teachers; and singer-songwriter Alela Diane performs “Albatross” from her latest album "Cusp."

"All-Stars" with Luis Alberto Urrea, Eileen Myles, and Moshow The Cat Rapper Feb 01, 2019

This special Live Wire episode brings together some "All-Star" guests by way of the Portland Book Festival; celebrated author Luis Alberto Urrea dissects the dynamics of his Mexican family, which inspired his latest book "The House of Broken Angels;" master poet Eileen Myles takes on the presidency in a reading of their epic poem "Acceptance Speech;" and internet sensation Moshow The Cat Rapper gives lessons on peace, love, and not declawing your cats.

"Living the Dream" with Ian Karmel, Al Letson, Caitlin Kunkel, and Laura Gibson Jan 18, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello dispute the importance of their dream lives; satirist Caitlin Kunkel shares her favorite jokes from her new book, "New Erotica for Feminists: Satirical Fantasies of Love, Lust, and Equal Pay;" comedian Ian Karmel takes down the masculinity of men's grooming products; radio host Al Letson revisits an uncomfortable conversation with a far-right vlogger whose life he saved; and singer-songwriter Laura Gibson performs "Tenderness."

"The Morning After" with Dan Savage, Shaughnessy Bishop-Stall, Frangela, and Meklit Jan 04, 2019

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello unpack the ominous implications of “The Morning After;” author and journalist Shaughnessy Bishop-Stall describes his gonzo attempts to find the cure for the hangover; comedy duo Frangela riff on why they’re not giving up their healthcare; sex and relationship columnist Dan Savage advises on monogamy, gender pronouns, and online social etiquette; and Ethio-Jazz performer Meklit makes her return to Live Wire with the song, “I Want to Sing to Them All.”

"Hand-Me-Downs" with John Hodgman, RJ Young, Fabi Reyna, and Sávila Dec 21, 2018

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello discuss the significance of “Hand-Me-Downs”… namely, Luke’s childhood stirrup jeans; author and humorist John Hodgman recounts how inheriting his mother’s vacation home led him into the wilderness of homeownership; writer RJ Young explains how he got immersed in the world of race, guns, and self-protection after being gifted a pistol from his father-in-law; musician Fabi Reyna shares why she launched "She Shreds" – the only magazine devoted to female guitarists; and cumbia/Latin band Sávila perform “La Danza.”

"Character Building" with Lauren Groff, Tommy Orange, Caitlin Weierhauser, and Lucy Kaplansky Dec 07, 2018

In this second installment from the Portland Book Festival, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello explore the process of “character building” for actors; celebrated author Lauren Groff makes the case for why art is not a competition; writer Tommy Orange discusses how urban Native identity became the theme of his debut novel There There; comedian Caitlin Weierhauser admits to telling all her secrets to pugs; and singer-songwriter Lucy Kaplansky performs her tune “Keeping Time.”

"Hitting the Road" with Abbi Jacobson, Nicole Chung, Peter Sagal, and The Dip Nov 23, 2018

In this special Portland Book Festival episode, host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello discuss "hitting the road" and the risks of hitchhiking; Broad City’s Abbi Jacobson recounts her solo cross-country road trip; writer Nicole Chung discusses her journey of discovering the difficult truth behind her own adoption; Peter Sagal, host of Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!, takes a marathon-length inspired quiz; and Seattle soul group The Dip perform their single “Atlas.”

"Paying Your Dues" with Phoebe Robinson, Thomas Page McBee, Lainey Morse, and Sammy Brue Nov 09, 2018

Host Luke Burbank and Elena Passarello describe moments when they "paid their dues;" memoirist Thomas Page McBee shares what he learned about masculinity while training to become the first transgender man to box at Madison Square Garden; dope queen Phoebe Robinson reflects on managing debt and embracing "trash" culture; entrepreneur Lainey Morse reveals the origins of goat yoga; and Americana wunderkind Sammy Brue performs the song "Our Garden."

"Letting Go" with Tommy Pico, Emily Heller, Eli Saslow, and The Helio Sequence Oct 26, 2018

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello confess to how bad they are at “letting go;” poet Tommy Pico explains how writing as his alter ego "Teebs" allows him to be less self-censoring in his work; journalist Eli Saslow discusses Derek Black – the subject of his new book "Rising Out of Hatred" – and how the once-heir to the white nationalist movement made a stunning transformation; comedian Emily Heller spins gut-busting analogies to online dating; and indie rock duo The Helio Sequence perform “Lately” from their album “Keep Your Eyes Ahead.”

"Facing Your Fears" with Jose Antonio Vargas, Courtenay Hameister, Marcella Arguello, and Planes on Paper Oct 12, 2018

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello “face their fears” of the IRS and snakes; journalist Jose Antonio Vargas recounts coming out as an undocumented immigrant who faces deportation at any moment; comedian Marcella Arguello makes the case for staying single over 30; writer and former Live Wire host Courtenay Hameister describes how she spent a year facing her anxiety head-on by engaging in activities that pushed her boundaries; and folk duo Planes on Paper perform “Hermit Song.”

"Fresh Starts" with Gary Shteyngart, Hari Kondabolu, Maxine McCormick, and Lenore Sep 28, 2018

Host Luke Burbank gets a “fresh start” when he learns how to correctly pronounce announcer Elena Passarello’s name; writer Gary Shteyngart recounts how his Greyhound adventures across America inspired his new book “Lake Success;” comedian Hari Kondabolu shares his experience teaching stand-up to prison inmates; 14-year-old Maxine McCormick explains how she became the two-time world champion of fly casting; and Portland folk band Lenore perform their track, “Thick Skin, Tender Heart.”

"Facing the Music" with Charley Crockett, Roger Reeves, and La Barbecue's LeAnn Mueller & Alison Clem Sep 14, 2018

Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello “Face the Music” in this episode from a hotel room in the Live Music Capital of the World – Austin, Texas. Busker-turned-bona fide blues artist Charley Crockett subs in as Live Wire’s house band; poet Roger Reeves stops by and tells us why poetry is the harbinger of the future; and the women behind Austin’s famed La Barbeque – music and fashion photographer LeAnn Mueller and her partner Ali Clem – share the secrets to quintessential Texas BBQ.

Caitlin Doughty (Short) Aug 31, 2018

In this studio segment, Luke speaks with mortician Caitlin Doughty, who is known for advocating death acceptance and the reform of the Western funeral industry. She is the creator of the web series "Ask a Mortician," founder of the organization The Order of the Good Death, and is the author of two bestselling books, "From Here to Eternity" and "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes." In this interview, Caitlin discusses death phobia, corpse interaction, and how many cultures outside of the United States tend to have a more positive relationship to grief.

Kevin Young (Short) Aug 17, 2018

Kevin Young, acclaimed poet and poetry editor of The New Yorker, speaks on his writing process, the inspiration he gleaned from Prince, and the cross-section between hip hop and poetry in describing the black experience. Young also reads from his collection "Blue Laws," including a poem about boxer Jack Johnson – the first black heavyweight champion.

Simon Rich (Short) Aug 03, 2018

A humorist, novelist, and television writer, Rich talks with Luke about his youthful appearance making him "seem like a pretty clever 14-year-old," which leads to the longest awkward pause in Live Wire history. As a bonus treat, humorous segments from Rich's books are performed by Faces For Radio Theater.

Barbara Ehrenreich (Short) Jul 20, 2018

In this podcast short from the Live Wire archive, author and activist Barbara Ehrenreich ("Nickel and Dimed") speaks to Luke Burbank back in 2014 about her book “Living with a Wild God: A Nonbeliever's Search for the Truth About Everything," defining the mysterious "visions" she experienced as a lifelong atheist, and her unending quest for knowledge.

Tessa Fontaine, Moses Storm, Abdi Nor Iftin, and Laura Veirs Jul 06, 2018

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello relive their “great escapes;” writer Tessa Fontaine explains how learning to eat fire as a part of America's last traveling sideshow helped mend her broken heart; comedian and actor Moses Storm riffs on a childhood spent living in a bus with his missionary family; memoirist and visa lottery winner Abdi Nor Iftin recounts his journey from war-torn Somalia to rural Maine; and singer-songwriter Laura Veirs performs the T.S. Eliot-inspired “Margaret Sands” from her latest album “The Lookout.”

Mike Pesca, Anya Yurchyshyn, Robby Slowik, Lindsey Murphy, and Prom Queen Jun 22, 2018

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk “do-overs” with real and hypothetical tattoos; author Anya Yurchyshyn discusses her new memoir “My Dead Parents,” in which she explores aspects of her parents she never knew; journalist and podcaster Mike Pesca dissects the most intriguing “what ifs” in sports history; science vlogger Lindsey Murphy reveals how she engages her young “Fab Lab" audience; comedian Robby Slowik ruminates on the need for a national anthem; and doom-wop singer-songwriter Prom Queen gives herself a musical makeover with her track “Blonde.”

Paul F. Tompkins, Ijeoma Oluo, and Open Mike Eagle Jun 08, 2018

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello reveal what takes them out of their comfort zones; comedian Paul F. Tompkins discusses the perils of improvising on his podcast “Spontaneanation” and shares the secrets behind writing his theme to the film, “Phantom Thread;” writer Ijeoma Oluo unpacks the themes of racial oppression in her new book, “So You Want to Talk About Race;” and hip hop artist Open Mike Eagle performs a track from his concept album “Brick Body Kids Still Daydream” about the Chicago Housing Project where spent time as a kid.

Episode #363: Hanif Abdurraqib, Beth Stelling, Dr. Mary Zelinski, and John Craigie May 25, 2018

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk personal “breakthrough” moments, including the Jimmy Buffett lyric that has eluded them both; poet and music writer Hanif Abdurraqib discusses essays from his critically acclaimed book “They Can’t Kill Us Until They Kill Us” and why he's no longer willing to suffer for his art; Portland scientist Mary Zelinski shares the breakthrough research on male contraceptives; comedian Beth Stelling spins stories on childhood guinea pigs and skin conditions; and folk humorist John Craigie performs, “Let’s Talk This Over When We’re Sober and Not at Burning Man.”

Episode #362: Matt Young, Katie Nguyen, Brandi Tuck, and Tomo Nakayama May 11, 2018

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello recall times when they were way over their heads; Marine-turned-writer Matt Young reflects on how his experience in the military informed his gut-wrenching memoir “Eat the Apple;” Portland non-profit leader Brandi Tuck explains how bringing together musicians and homeless mothers can produce healing; comedian Katie Nguyen riffs on the new “dewy” beauty standard; and musician Tomo Nakayama plays the title track from his airport-inspired album “Pieces of Sky.”

Episode #361: Chapman & Maclain Way, Mary Pilon, Ahmed Bharoocha, Raley Schweinfurth, and Ron Artis II & The Truth Apr 27, 2018

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello talk about their true beliefs; Chapman & Maclain Way, creators of the Netflix docuseries “Wild Wild Country,” discuss the incredible true story behind the followers of guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh who established a controversial commune in 1980s rural Oregon; sports journalist Mary Pilon details the life of Olympian Kevin Hall and his struggles with the Truman Show delusion; high school senior Raley Schweinfurth explains her award-winning efforts to save Portland’s bees; comedian Ahmed Bharoocha questions the crow flight training program; and Hawaiian soul group Ron Artis II & The Truth perform “Searching for Answers.”

Episode #360: Lindy West, Sarah Gertrude Shapiro, Alex Falcone, Stephen Green, and Moorea Masa & The Mood Apr 13, 2018

Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello confess their guilty pleasures; New York Times columnist Lindy West reveals how she tried to entice Donald Trump into blocking her from Twitter; Sarah Gertrude Shapiro unpacks how her Lifetime series UnREAL was inspired by her own troubled experiences as a producer of The Bachelor; comedian Alex Falcone shares his frustrations over the "fashion raccoons" of secondhand boutiques; Portland startup entrepreneur Stephen Green speaks on the importance of supporting local Black businesses; and soul group Moorea Masa & The Mood perform “Ever Moving.”

Episode #359: Laurie Kilmartin, Gaby Dunn, and Chris Staples Mar 30, 2018

Comedian Laurie Kilmartin talks about her new book Dead People Suck, in which she uses dark humor to process the death of her father; writer, podcaster and YouTube star Gaby Dunn spills about her problems with money and defining her sexuality in the age of social media; singer-songwriter Chris Staples reflects on being mistook for a popular country singer with a similar name, and host Luke Burbank is joined onstage by writer Elena Passarello to unpack a story about watching a tongue-in-cheek puppet show of actor Ethan Hawk… and how relaying the tale to the actor himself fell flat.

Episode #358: Terese Marie Mailhot, Jason Traeger, Sophie Egan and Reggie Houston Mar 16, 2018

Writer Terese Marie Mailhot discusses her new memoir “Heart Berries” and the importance of empathy for the indigenous experience, comedian Jason Traeger describes his therapist choices in Portland, program director of the American Culinary Institute Sophie Egan talks about what’s known as the American food psyche, and former Fats Domino band member and saxophonist Reggie Houston performs the jazz standard “Autumn Leaves."

Episode #357: George Saunders, Jay Larson, Jenny Bruso, and Horse Feathers Mar 02, 2018

Luke Burbank describes his attempts to get enlightened, acclaimed author George Saunders explains how swimming in a river of monkey poop led to an illustrious writing career and opens up about his newfound admiration for Abraham Lincoln (the protagonist of this newest work, "Lincoln in the Bardo"), comedian Jay Larson riffs on passive-aggressive Yelp reviews, Unlikely Hikers' Jenny Bruso reflects on her journey to make the outdoors more accessible for all, and indie folk band Horse Feathers perform the first track off their forthcoming album, “Appreciation.”

"On the Contrary" with Andy Kindler, Rico Gagliano, Brendan Francis Newnam, Lidia Yuknavitch, and Ural Thomas & the Pain Jan 22, 2018

Host Luke Burbank details how his contrarian streak affects his marriage, author Lidia Yuknavitch shows us how to embrace our inner misfit, Dinner Party Download hosts Rico Gagliano and Brendan Francis Newnam make the case against brunch, comedian Andy Kindler discusses how his recent foray into therapy has changed his comedy, and Ural Thomas and the Pain bring us musical relief.

2017 Time Capsule Throw Down! (Short) Dec 26, 2017

Say goodbye to 2017 with the Live Wire Time Capsule Throw Down! Recorded at Seattle’s Neptune Theatre, host Luke Burbank plays a game with guests John Roderick and Ken Jennings in which they attempt to encapsulate this past year in all its strangeness.

"Word on the Street" with Ken Jennings, John Roderick, Anastacia-Renée, Emmy Favilla, and Laura Gibson Dec 18, 2017

Omnibus podcast hosts Ken Jennings and John Roderick give a glimpse of what stories are inside their audio time capsule for future generations (and/or alien invaders), BuzzFeed grammar wiz Emmy Favilla breaks down the problem with punctuation, Seattle’s Civic Poet Anastacia-Reneé shares what it’s like to have an identity that encapsulates everything the president hates, and singer-songwriter Laura Gibson utilizes her newly acquired MFA to improvise musical CliffsNotes about literary classics.

"Cautionary Tales" with Welcome to Night Vale's Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor, Danez Smith, Edan Lepucki, and Chad VanGaalen Dec 04, 2017

Luke Burbank kicks off the “Cautionary Tales” episode with a harrowing anecdote about his dog’s actual tail, Welcome to Night Vale creators Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor provide some techniques for concentrating on art during trying political times, poet Danez Smith deconstructs wokeness, author Edan Lepucki shares her methods for conjuring a ‘female snarl’ writing state, and musician and animator Chad VanGaalen performs the track “Static Shape.”

"Leftovers" with Glynn Washington, Elna Baker, Baratunde Thurston, Ariel Levy, and John Craigie Nov 27, 2017

In this special “Leftovers” edition of Live Wire, host Luke Burbank offers up a smorgasbord of cutting room floor delights. Snap Judgment host Glynn Washington crafts cocktail-related stories, a hypnotist helps Elna Baker discover she has 11 fingers, futurist comedian Baratunde Thurston stands his intellectual ground, Ariel Levy evaluates the credibility of some celebrity factoids using only her journalistic instinct, and folk troubadour John Craigie performs the tune, “I Am California.”

“Brave New World” with Adam Gopnik, Elena Passarello, and Blossom Nov 20, 2017

Luke Burbank reflects on the lessons he learned from a day without his iPhone, New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik shares his 40-year nostalgia theory and how sex with a long-term partner can reach civil war reenactment status, essayist Elena Passarello coins the term “animalsonified” while examining humans’ complicated relationships with famed mammals, and RnB singer Blossom performs the brand new track, “Possibilities.”

"The Truth Hurts" with Cheryl Strayed, Baratunde Thurston and Meklit Nov 13, 2017

Luke Burbank peels back the curtain on a show recording gone wrong that later became the foundation of Live Wire Miracle Day, author and advice columnist Cheryl Strayed offers up some Thanksgiving table survival techniques, futurist comedian Baratunde Thurston reveals the dangers of “anti-social people developing all of our social tools,” and musical guest Meklit brings us along on her journey to find beauty and music in everyday sounds.

"Game On" with Max Temkin, Kevin Coval, Adam Burke, and Malcolm London Nov 06, 2017

Luke Burbank remembers a childhood basketball wager that put the fate of Christianity on the line, Cards Against Humanity co-founder Max Temkin depicts his “particular subspecies of nerd,” poet Kevin Coval explains why hip-hop deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, comedian Adam Burke asks Chicago to drop the “no ketchup rule,” and rapper Malcolm London performs songs from his latest release, OPIA.

"Hidden Talent" with Lynn Shelton, Thanh Tan, Kevin Avery, and Makana Oct 30, 2017

Filmmaker Lynn Shelton details how working on a fishing boat helped her appreciate life on a film set, Second Wave podcast host Thanh Tan details her life as a child of Vietnamese immigrants long after the war, comedian Kevin Avery describes how his podcast “Denzel Washington Is The Greatest Actor Of All Time Period” made his run-in with the star especially awkward, and Makana schools us on slack-key guitar.

"Tell It Like It Is" with Loudon Wainwright III, Bruce Campbell, and Karinda Dobbins Oct 23, 2017

Host Luke Burbank makes yet another mid-life crisis purchase, iconic B-movie actor Bruce Campbell explains why you’ll never meet Tom Cruise, folk legend Loudon Wainwright III muses about his own propensity to share intensely personal experiences and his children’s (occasionally hurtful) ability to do the same, and comedian Karinda Dobbins spins personal anecdotes about systemic racism into comedy gold.

"Lampedusa" with Emmylou Harris, Dave Matthews, Patty Griffin, Steve Earle, and Brandi Carlile Oct 15, 2017

In this special edition of Live Wire, Luke goes backstage during soundcheck for "Lampedusa: Concert for Refugees" to talk to some of the most iconic musicians of our time. Emmylou Harris reveals how she got waylaid on her way to Woodstock, Dave Matthews talks about managing a wide spectrum of his feelings during live performances, Steve Earle discusses how his real-life struggle with addiction intersected with his role on the HBO series The Wire, Patty Griffin recounts how she overcame her shyness through music and how her parents have helped her stay humble and Brandi Carlile reflects on her musical start as a teenager winning karaoke championships.

"West of Ordinary" with Picabo Street, Mark Sundeen, Scott Carrier, and Sammy Brue Oct 02, 2017

Live Wire visits Salt Lake City! Olympic gold medalist Picabo Street details the complex mental gymnastics that go into avoiding a fatal ski crash, author Mark Sundeen shares stories of people who make radical choices to live their values, radio producer Scott Carrier recounts how hitchhiking to NPR’s headquarters kicked off his career, and musical prodigy Sammy Brue reveals musical wisdom beyond his 16 years.

"Choice Words" with Salman Rushdie, Joe Kwaczala, Shadi Petosky, and Dave Depper Sep 25, 2017

Author Salman Rushdie reveals the Queen’s go-to icebreaker for talking to authors, comedian Joe Kwaczala questions the singing training of Catholic priests, showrunner Shadi Petosky describes how she’s working to increase queer representation in children’s media, and Death Cab for Cutie sideman Dave Depper takes the spotlight.

"(Not So) Small Talk" with Chuck Klosterman, Shawn Wen, and Justin Townes Earle Sep 17, 2017

Luke Burbank remembers the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption before speaking with two hikers stranded in the Eagle Creek Fire, writer Chuck Klosterman shares his theories about flawed thinking, author Shawn Wen describes the creative journey her fascination with mime Marcel Marceau has taken her on, and Justin Townes Earle talks about growing up in the shadow of musical greatness.

"Making it Work" with Erik Weihenmayer, Leila Janah, Mohanad Elshieky, Walter Martin, Jason Isbell, and Amanda Shires Sep 01, 2017

In this special Labor Day episode of Live Wire, blind adventurer Erik Weihenmayer recalls summiting Everest and what it was like seeing his son’s face for the first time, social entrepreneur Leila Janah illuminates issues with current aid models and how conscientious consumers can change the world, comedian Mohanad Elshieky takes some punches at the American political system, and singer-songwriters Walter Martin and Jason Isbell chime in with their own labors of love.

Cameron Esposito (Short) Aug 27, 2017

A listen back to Cameron Esposito's 2014 appearance on Live Wire, including her attempt to update Luke's lesbian cultural references and her completely original pronunciation for "guacamole."

Sherman Alexie (Short) Aug 06, 2017

Another episode from our archives: Luke and writer Sherman Alexie discuss kicking Philip Roth's literary ass, thinking beyond the reservation, and the particular challenge of being jealous of your kids.

"Burbank on Burbank" (Short) Jul 23, 2017

This week we dig into our archives to bring you Luke's first ever appearance on Live Wire...where he reflects on a less than stellar interview from earlier in his career.

"Freedom" with Amanda Knox, Justin Simien, and Shakey Graves Jul 02, 2017

In this special studio episode of Live Wire, Luke Burbank explores the notion of freedom. Amanda Knox continues the difficult work of healing from the trauma of her wrongful murder conviction and four years in an Italian prison, "Dear White People" creator Justin Simien discusses the catharsis and challenges of taking a satirical look at race relations, and alt-folk musician Shakey Graves rattles us to the core with a live version of “Roll the Bones.”

"Adaptation" with Ron Funches, Walter Kirn, and The Secret Sisters Jun 11, 2017

Ron Funches details finding his comedic voice and what it takes to make his mother proud, author Walter Kirn reveals how even a trained journalist could fall into a serial killer’s elaborate con as an imposter Rockefeller, and The Secret Sisters delight with a harmonic folk earworm.

"Above and Beyond" with Hari Kondabolu, Faith Salie, and Joe Kye Jun 04, 2017

Comedian Hari Kondabolu questions the devil’s need for advocates, journalist and author Faith Salie admits that being an approval junkie is particularly challenging when releasing a book on that topic, and looping violinist Joe Kye creates a complex and beautiful soundscape.

"Cut the Crap" with Stephen Tobolowsky, Ariel Levy, The Minimalists, and Haley Heynderickx May 21, 2017

Author and prolific actor Stephen Tobolowsky takes us to the genesis of his spiritual reawakening, New Yorker writer and memoirist Ariel Levy opens up about what it’s like to keep reliving the worst year of her life, The Minimalists preach the purging gospel, and singer/songwriter Haley Heynderickx brings it home with the impromptu harmonic help of the Live Wire house band. Support Live Wire today: livewire.ejoinme.org/spring2017

"Off the Beaten Path" with James Lavadour, Jim Brunberg (of Roam Schooled), June Colony, and Rodney Bonifer May 14, 2017

Live Wire travels east to Pendleton,Oregon! Abstract painter James Lavadour recalls growing up on the Umatilla Reservation and how his energetic connection with the land transfuses into his work, Roam Schooled podcasters Jim Brunberg and his twin daughters restore the wonder of searching for answers without a wifi connection, June Colony introduces us to her new breed of sheep, and local legend Rodney Bonifer teaches Luke how to yodel before taking us out on a ballad about the Pendleton Round-Up.

Special Edition: Kristen Schaal from Bob's Burgers May 07, 2017

In this special spring membership drive edition of Live Wire, we look behind the scenes at Fox’s animated TV sitcom Bob’s Burgers with actor Kristin Schaal and writer/producer Scott Jacobson. Plus original songs from the show featuring Laura Gibson and John Roderick! Support Live Wire today: livewire.ejoinme.org/spring2017

"The Lowdown" with Glynn Washington, Kelly McEvers, and Bilal Apr 30, 2017

NPR’s Snap Judgment host Glynn Washington shares his desire to build empathy through vulnerable storytelling, Kelly McEvers of NPR’s All Things Considered explains how her malfunctioning danger sensor has led her to a career in deep-dive journalism, Environmental Services Field Supervisor Randy Belston gives us a taste (and scent) of what it’s like to work in Portland’s sewer system, and Grammy-winning neo-soul artist Bilal finishes off this lowdown episode on a stunningly high note.

"Against the Grain" with Jessi Klein, Dan Savage, Attorney General Bob Ferguson, and Ayron Jones Apr 23, 2017

Savage Love columnist and the “It Gets Better Project” mastermind Dan Savage takes us on a trip down sex advice memory lane, author and “Inside Amy Schumer” head writer Jessi Klein puts forth the compelling argument that taking baths actually makes one dirtier, Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson provides step-by-step instructions for how to sue your president, and alt-rocker Ayron Jones takes us out on a spine-chilling note.

"Own Worst Enemy" with Dan Harmon, Lauren Weedman, Anis Mojgani, and Eric D. Johnson of Fruit Bats Apr 16, 2017

“Rick and Morty” co-creator Dan Harmon talks about his creative process and the impending stalemate with his therapist, actor and playwright Lauren Weedman discusses the merits and perils of revealing personal (and often painful) stories to the world, poet Anis Mojgani leaves us hanging on every word, and Fruit Bats frontman Eric D. Johnson sings of unrequited love.

"Breaking Through" with Sasheer Zamata, Ayelet Waldman, Alonzo Bodden, and Craig Finn Mar 26, 2017

Saturday Night Live cast member Sasheer Zamata recalls her journey to the comedy stage, author Ayelet Waldman details her experience as an LSD microdosing case study of one, Last Comic Standing winner Alonzo Bodden tears into the American zeitgeist, and Craig Finn (of The Hold Steady) defends his Minnesotan honor before performing a new song about his home state.

"Going Your Own Way" with Hannah Hart, Mara Wilson, Jim Norton, and John Craigie Mar 19, 2017

My Drunk Kitchen star and author Hannah Hart details the long process of coming out to herself and her family, former child actor and memoirist Mara Wilson recalls the end of her love affair with Hollywood and making peace with forever being Matilda, Jim Norton poses a theory on why you don’t see classically beautiful comedians, and folk singer John Craigie performs an ode to some incriminating photos on his phone.

"Uncharted Waters" with Matt Taibbi, Thi Bui, El Sanchez, and Hibou Mar 12, 2017

Journalist Matt Taibbi recounts the years leading up to our current post-factual predicament, graphic novelist Thi Bui recalls her family's harrowing escape from South Vietnam, comedian El Sanchez deconstructs the gender binary, and musical act Hibou provides a synth-soaked nostalgia-inducing soundtrack.

"Funny Feelings" with Horatio Sanz, Aparna Nancherla, and Kyle Craft Mar 05, 2017

Comedian Horatio Sanz recounts his days at SNL and the roll of comedy in political journalism, comedian Aparna Nancherla teaches us how to turn anxiety into comedy gold, the owners of Portland’s cat cafe explain the benefits of purr therapy, and Kyle Craft warns of the dangers of walls.

"Full Disclosure" with Elna Baker, Brooks Wheelan, Zahir Janmohamed, and Thundercat Feb 26, 2017

Author Elna Baker recounts childhood memories of workshopping material at her Mormon church’s “open mic” sessions, comedian and former SNL writer Brooks Wheelan teaches us how to fast talk our way out of illegal situations, Zahir Janmohamed breaks down the peanut butter and jelly controversy that led to the naming of his podcast The Racist Sandwich, and jazz virtuoso Thundercat treats us to a scale-flipping treasure from his forthcoming release, Drunk.

Bonus: A DAPL Update from Gyasi Ross Feb 19, 2017

An update from author, attorney, and rapper Gyasi Ross about what's going on at the Standing Rock Indian Reservation and why he believes it's an amazing time to be alive.

"Facing Your Demons" with Maria Semple, Misha Collins, Gyasi Ross, and Telekinesis Dec 20, 2016

Author Maria Semple gives tips for sneaking into rock bands' hotel rooms, actor Misha Collins talks about doing good through his philanthropic scavenger hunt, activist and author Gyasi Ross reports back from his time at the Standing Rock protests and demonstrates the transformational power of a long hug, and Telekinesis reminds us of all the good in the world.

"Second to None" with Reggie Watts, Rick Bayless, and Jenn White Dec 12, 2016

Performer Reggie Watts talks improvisation and composes a ringtone for us, chef Rick Bayless discusses the merits of eyeball tacos, and journalist Jenn White reveals why Oprah's legacy continues to resonate.

"Local Flavor" with Earl Blumenauer, Naomi Pomeroy, Darcelle, Mohanad Elshieky, and My Bubba Nov 28, 2016

Congressman Earl Blumenauer shares his perspective on the recent election, chef Naomi Pomeroy strives to make a gourmet dish with ingredients sourced from our local convenience store, Darcelle reflects on her path to becoming America's oldest drag queen, comedian Mohanad Elshieky compares notes on life in Portland to his hometown of Benghazi, and My Bubba makes us lonesome... in a good way.

"Family Ties" with Sherman Alexie, Garrard Conley, and Shovels & Rope Nov 21, 2016

Sherman Alexie discusses how his father's death inspired him to write a children's book, Garrard Conley recounts his journey through gay conversion therapy and how it impacted his relationship with his parents, and Shovels & Rope harvest their family's experiences into a rollicking hootenanny.

"Rolling the Dice" with Lindy West, Jonathan Lethem, Emma Straub, and Blitzen Trapper Nov 14, 2016

Lindy West shares why she keeps speaking up on the internet despite her better judgment, Jonathan Lethem explains why he only plays poker with college professors, Emma Straub reveals why she believes her first four novels were (deservedly) rejected, and Blitzen Trapper does us right with a Gillian Welch cover.

"Unconventional Wisdom" with Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Baratunde Thurston, Roopa Vasudevan, and Mike Yung Nov 07, 2016

In this special election episode of Live Wire, Radiolab hosts Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich provide a cautionary tale of civic strife, comedian Baratunde Thurston speculates how the election has come to this divisive point, coder and artist Roopa Vasudevan explains what social media can show us that the polls can't, and subway performer Mike Yung demonstrates why his powerful voice went viral and reassures us that “A Change is Gonna Come.”

"Here We Are" with Chris Hayes, Jonathan Safran Foer, Michelle Buteau, and Kadhja Bonet Nov 01, 2016

MSNBC's Chris Hayes' parents compete to see who knows the most about his career, comedian Michelle Buteau recounts the challenges of communicating with her Dutch in-laws, author Jonathan Safran Foer discusses negotiating the distance between who we are and who we want to be, and Kadhja Bonet casts a musical spell with her dreamy vocals.

"Seriously Funny" with Phoebe Robinson, Bill Oakley, Dr. Brian Druker, and Blind Pilot Oct 24, 2016

Comedian Phoebe Robinson discusses the unexpected value of Googling herself and other not-so-guilty pleasures, former Simpsons writer Bill Oakley describes the dark reality of a comedy writers' room, Dr. Brian Druker shares why he is hopeful about the future of cancer research, and Blind Pilot navigates us through a lush musical landscape.

"Gut Instinct" with Nicole Byer, Dr. Embriette Hyde, Terry Porter, and David Bazan Oct 10, 2016

Comedian Nicole Byer professes her deep love for her therapist, Dr. Embriette Hyde explores the mysterious workings of our guts, NBA legend Terry Porter recalls overcoming his own doubt as an athletic late bloomer, and David Bazan's music resurfaces all those feelings we were trying to forget.

"The Invisible World" with Penn Jillette, Justin Schmidt, and Ted Ramirez Oct 04, 2016

Live Wire goes to Phoenix, where Luke attempts to eat the hottest pepper in the world, entomologist Justin Schmidt tells us what getting stung by thousands of insects has taught him about pain, magician Penn Jillette describes the startling benefits of eating only potatoes, and Tucson’s official troubadour Ted Ramirez sings a love song to his hometown.

"Going the Distance" with Bruce Campbell, Colin O'Brady, Shannon Balcom, and Farnell Newton & The Othership Connection Sep 26, 2016

Bruce Campbell reflects on his status as a cult film actor, Colin O’Brady explains how it feels breaking the world record for climbing the highest peaks on each of the seven continents, Shannon Balcom discusses her gardening-related Pinterest fail, and Farnell Newton & The Othership Connection brings all the funk we can handle.

"Homecoming" with Paul F. Tompkins, Heben Nigatu, Matthew Inman, and Pete Bernhard of The Devil Makes Three Sep 19, 2016

Comedian Paul F. Tompkins talks about his role on BoJack Horseman the simple joy of receiving handwritten mail, Another Round host Heben Nigatu describes how her podcast fits into the long tradition of black women talking to each other... and what she had to say to Hillary Clinton, The Oatmeal cartoonist Matthew Inman discusses accepting that he'll never be happy despite his massive success, and Pete Bernhard of The Devil Makes Three gifts us with a hauntingly beautiful Townes Van Zandt cover.

"Labor Day Special" with Mike Birbiglia, Joey Harrington, and musical guest Joseph Sep 05, 2016

In a special Labor Day episode, comedian Mike Birbiglia chats about his latest film as well as his evolving definition of success, former NFL quarterback Joey Harrington discusses whether he’ll allow his sons to play football, and the band Joseph demonstrates how to achieve harmony between siblings.

"The Art and Science of Being a Lady" with Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce and Alialujah Choir Jul 11, 2016

In a show all about the art and science of being a lady, Luke plays "Marry, Boff, Klll: Scientist Edition" with Science: For Her! writer Megan Amram and talks to trans activist Joanna Lynne Ponce about seeing both sides of the gender equation, all while the Alialujah Choir lays down some boss harmonies.

"Square Pegs" with Dan Harmon, Jackie Kashian and Eyelids Jul 04, 2016

Luke quits Facebook and darkness falls, Community creator Dan Harmon opens up about booze and NBC, comic Jackie Kashian explains why Native Americans may not be over the whole "stealing their country" thing and indie superband Eyelids rocks it.

"The Sky's The Limit" with Gregory Gourdet & Doug Adams, Sara Seager and Loch Lomond Jun 27, 2016

Top Chef Boston finalists Gregory Gourdet and Doug Adams judge the first-ever Live Wire Bottom Chef competition, astrophysicist Sara Seager fills us in on the heated discussions behind naming planets, and Loch Lomond fill the hall with beautiful harmonies.

"Known Unknowns" with Nicholas Kristof, Mike Pesca and Bill Frisell Jun 20, 2016

In an episode all about the unknown, The Gist's Mike Pesca tells Luke how to take the perfect nap, we go to great lengths to discover what scares "The Indiana Jones of Journalism" Nicholas Kristof (spoiled milk is on the list) and jazz great Bill Frisell plays a haunting version of "In My Life."

"Hindsight" with Sebastian Junger, Natasha Leggero, Moshe Kasher, Claire Mulaney, and La Luz Jun 14, 2016

Author Sebastian Junger examines the struggles soldiers face readjusting to life at home and what they can tell us about the flaws of modern society, comedians Natasha Leggero and Moshe Kasher discuss the traditions they invoked (and invented) for their Jewish wedding, comic Claire Mulaney provides a cautionary tale for mixing pot cake with bowling, and La Luz’s “surf noir” sweeps us away.

"Playing by Ear" with Chris Thile, Dave Hill, and The Wild Reeds May 30, 2016

Mandolinist Chris Thile discusses what excites him about his new gig as host of A Prairie Home Companion, comedian Dave Hill recounts what it was like writing ringtones for Donald Trump, and The Wild Reeds dazzle us with their astounding harmonies.

"Secret Worlds" with Paul Gilmartin, Neal Bascomb, and Open Mike Eagle May 23, 2016

Comedian Paul Gilmartin discusses how his podcast helps erase the stigma around mental illness, Neal Bascomb recounts a courageous group of Norwegians that stopped the Nazis from obtaining the atomic bomb, and Open Mike Eagle reveals what “the Kurt Vonnegut of rap” sounds like (spoiler alert: pretty awesome).

"Under Pressure" with Peggy Orenstein, D. Watkins, and Walter Martin May 16, 2016

Peggy Orenstein discusses how young women struggle to achieve “intimate justice” in their sex lives, professor D. Watkins recounts the path that took him from selling drugs in East Baltimore to his life as a published author, and Walter Martin charms us with his musical musings.

"If Memory Serves" with Sarah Vowell, Chris Offutt and Sam Outlaw May 09, 2016

Sarah Vowell challenges Luke's public radio references, writer Chris Offutt examine's his father's secret profession, Sam Outlaw's sings about heading home again, and the Live Wire Lovebirds face-off in "The Cohabitation Examination."

"Pretty Big Deal" with Jack Ohman, Kevin Young, Andrea Swensson and The von Trapps May 02, 2016

Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist Jack Ohman talks about the most amazing moment of his career, poet Kevin Young reads from his latest collection, Minnesota Public Radio music host Andrea Swensson reminisces about the time Prince asked her to dance, and The von Trapps musically bid us adieu.

"How on Earth?" with Gerrit Vyn, Nicole Apelian, Anis Mojgani and Fruition Apr 25, 2016

Live Wire celebrates Earth Day! Survivalist and Alone reality show contestant Dr. Nicole Apelian reveals her packing list for living solo in the wilderness, two teen activists explain why they are suing the U.S. government, wildlife photographer Gerrit Vyn attempts to identify some very... uh... unique bird calls, Anis Mojgani poeticizes his memories of growing up in New Orleans, and Fruition’s strings and harmonies take us out of this world and back again.

"Uh Oh" with Paolo Bacigalupi, Ijeoma Oluo, Sallie Tisdale and Liz Vice Apr 18, 2016

Author Paolo Bacigalupi warns us about the dangers of magical thinking when it comes to the environment, Ijeoma Oluo tells us why she has hope for the future of race relations, Sallie Tisdale discusses the dangers of writing about your own family, and Liz Vice’s soulful sound lifts our spirits.

"Tight Five" with Eliza Skinner, Bri Pruett, Alex Falcone, Anthony Lopez and Ayron Jones Apr 11, 2016

Four comedians share some of their best material and do battle with hecklers you’d only hear on public radio. Eliza Skinner describes the “magic intelligence” that is comedy, Alex Falcone shares the first joke he ever wrote, Bri Pruett recounts a terrible early gig at an Applebee’s, and Anthony Lopez reflects on how his career path to faith healer / professional wrestler went off the rails. Plus, Ayron Jones blows us away with an acoustic song off his electrifying new album.

"Rebel Rebel" with Paul F. Tompkins, Timothy Egan and Patterson Hood Apr 04, 2016

This week on Live Wire, Paul F. Tompkins explains the difference between a fop and a dandy, Timothy Egan tells us what the struggles of an Irish revolutionary can tell us about our current political climate, and Drive by Truckers' Patterson Hood treats us to a preview of a soon-to-be released song.

"Just Visiting" with Tom Bodett, Betsy Hodges, Chris Coleman, Fancy Ray and The Jayhawks Mar 25, 2016

Live Wire visits the Twin Cities! Local TV pitchman Fancy Ray McCloney shows Tom Bodett how to spice up his Motel 6 ads, the mayors of St. Paul and Minneapolis (Chris Coleman and Betsy Hodges) face-off in a trivia contest to determine who is the superior mayor, and The Jayhawks share their signature sound that put Minneapolis on the musical map.

"Bonus: The Jayhawks" Mar 18, 2016

A special preview of last week's show at The Fitzgerald Theater featuring two classic songs from the Twin Cities' own (and Live Wire favorites) The Jayhawks. The Jayhawks If there is an OG of American alternative country-rock bands, it’s The Jayhawks. Emerging from the Twin Cities more than 25 years ago, this highly influential quartet has released 8 studio albums, and their 9th, produced by R.E.M.’s Peter Buck, drops later this year.

"Making History" with Rebecca Traister, Ruth Goodman and The Last Artful, Dodgr Mar 11, 2016

Author Rebecca Traister explores the rising power of unmarried women, historian Ruth Goodman reveals what living like a Tudor can teach us about modern life, and musical artist The Last Artful, Dodgr does Portland’s hip hop community proud.

"Learning Curve" with Jen Kirkman, Lance Bangs and Hey Marseilles Mar 04, 2016

Writer and comedian Jen Kirkman recounts a horrific blind date in Sweden, filmmaker Lance Bangs imagines an elaborate Burning Man prank, and Hey Marseilles provide the soundtrack.

"If Memory Serves" with Sarah Vowell, Chris Offutt and Sam Outlaw Feb 26, 2016

Sarah Vowell challenges Luke's public radio references, writer Chris Offutt examine's his father's secret profession, Sam Outlaw's sings about heading home again, and the Live Wire Lovebirds face-off in "The Cohabitation Examination."

"Here Goes Something..." with Stephen Tobolowsky, Dale Scott and Matisyahu Feb 19, 2016

Stephen Tobolowsky recalls getting held up at gunpoint while browsing for mangoes, MLB umpire Dale Scott talks about coming out as gay in the world of baseball, and Jewish reggae icon Matisyahu attempts to teach Luke how to beatbox.

"Diving In" with Aasif Mandvi, Wallace J. Nichols and Joseph Feb 12, 2016

"Diving In" with Aasif Mandvi, Wallace J. Nichols and Joseph

"The Long Haul" with Rinker Buck, Bri Pruett and Christopher Paul Stelling Feb 05, 2016

"The Long Haul" with Rinker Buck, Bri Pruett and Christopher Paul Stelling

"For the Record" with Cheryl Strayed, Anis Mojgani, Jenn Nelson and LOLO Jan 29, 2016

"For the Record" with Cheryl Strayed, Anis Mojgani, Jenn Nelson and LOLO

"Back to Basics" with Ruth Reichl, Jackie Kashian and Van Dyke Parks Jan 22, 2016

"Back to Basics" with Ruth Reichl, Jackie Kashian and Van Dyke Parks

"All in the Family" with Maya Forbes, China Forbes, Dusty Ramone and Blitzen Trapper Jan 15, 2016

"All in the Family" with Maya Forbes, China Forbes, Dusty Ramone and Blitzen Trapper

"Going Viral" with W. Kamau Bell, Emily St. John Mandel and Soft Sleep Jan 08, 2016

"Going Viral" with W. Kamau Bell, Emily St. John Mandel and Soft Sleep

"Reality Check" with Kristina Wong, Mark Bitterman, Sean Jordan and Esmé Patterson Jan 01, 2016

Comic Kristina Wong fills Luke in on the virtues of live-streaming a first date, Mark Bitterman explains what bitters can do for your holiday cocktails, comic Sean Jordan offers up the sickest burn to his dad ever, and Esmé Patterson's lilting voice warms up your winter.

Ep. 301: "On the Road" with Tom Bodett, Scott Poole, Courtenay Hameister and Box Set Dec 25, 2015

Wait Wait Don't Tell Me's Tom Bodett offers up the key to a happy, sober life (not hanging out with drunk jackasses plays a role), Scott Poole waxes poetic about corn dogs, Head Writer Courtenay Hameister says farewell, and Box Set offers up stunning harmonies.

Ep. 300: "Who Am I to Judge?" with John Hodgman, Prescott Harvey and The Doubleclicks Dec 18, 2015

Humorist and former eccentric millionaire John Hodgman manages to make a conversation about frequent flyer miles hilarious, writer and viral video hero Prescott Harvey wonders whether JJ Abrams took his advice about Star Wars, and nerdcore band The Doubleclicks sing about important holiday stuff: hanging out with cats at parties.

Ep. 299: "True Stories" with Irene Taylor Brodsky, Meghan Daum and David Wax Museum Dec 11, 2015

Filmmaker Irene Taylor Brodsky discusses her documentaries about people regaining their sight and hearing after decades of darkness and silence, author Meghan Daum fills us in on how long you can count on being a better person when you almost die ("Two weeks, tops."), and David Wax Museum brings their musical brand of Mexo-Americana music to the stage.

Ep. 298: "Along for the Ride" with Paul Scheer, Rob Huebel, Emily Heller and Matt Morris Dec 04, 2015

Luke gets "Crash Test" comics Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel to open up about asking for George Clooney's phone number and things they couldn't say on the Paramount set, standup comic Emily Heller plays hits from the radio station in her head, while singer/songwriter Matt Morris does the same.

Ep. 297: "Without a Net" with David Wain, Alex Honnold and Tacocat Nov 27, 2015

Ep. 297: "Without a Net" with David Wain, Alex Honnold and Tacocat

Ep. 296: "Changing Lanes" with Jesse Eisenberg, Sloane Crosley and Laura Gibson Nov 20, 2015

Ep. 296: "Changing Lanes" with Jesse Eisenberg, Sloane Crosley and Laura Gibson

Ep. 295: "Timing is Everything" with Heidi Julavits, John Irving, Diana Nyad and Israel Nebeker Nov 13, 2015

Ep. 295: "Timing is Everything" with Heidi Julavits, John Irving, Diana Nyad and Israel Nebeker

Ep. 294: "Diving In" with Aasif Mandvi, Wallace J. Nichols and Joseph Nov 07, 2015

Ep. 294: "Diving In" with Aasif Mandvi, Wallace J. Nichols and Joseph

Ep. 293: "The Long Haul" with Rinker Buck, Bri Pruett and Christopher Paul Stelling Oct 30, 2015

Ep. 293: "The Long Haul" with Rinker Buck, Bri Pruett and Christopher Paul Stelling

Ep. 292: "For the Record" with Cheryl Strayed, Anis Mojgani, Jenn Nelson and LOLO Oct 23, 2015

Ep. 292: "For the Record" with Cheryl Strayed, Anis Mojgani, Jenn Nelson and LOLO

Ep. 291: "Back to Basics" with Ruth Reichl, Jackie Kashian and Van Dyke Parks Oct 16, 2015

Ep. 291: "Back to Basics" with Ruth Reichl, Jackie Kashian and Van Dyke Parks

Ep. 290: "All in the Family" with Maya Forbes, China Forbes, Dusty Ramone and Blitzen Trapper Oct 09, 2015

Ep. 290: "All in the Family" with Maya Forbes, China Forbes, Dusty Ramone and Blitzen Trapper

Ep. 289: "Going Viral" with W. Kamau Bell, Emily St. John Mandel and Soft Sleep Oct 02, 2015

Ep. 289: "Going Viral" with W. Kamau Bell, Emily St. John Mandel and Soft Sleep

Ep. 288: "Tough Calls" with Lizz Winstead, Timothy Egan, Alex Edelman and Hey Marseilles new Sep 25, 2015

Ep. 288: "Tough Calls" with Lizz Winstead, Timothy Egan, Alex Edelman and Hey Marseilles new

Ep. 287: "JK" with Sean Patton, Ijeoma Oluo and Brothers from Another Sep 18, 2015

Ep. 287: "JK" with Sean Patton, Ijeoma Oluo and Brothers from Another

Ep. 286: "What To Unexpect When You're Unexpecting" with Neko Case, Ophira Eisenberg and Devotchka Sep 11, 2015

In a show all about the unexpected, Neko Case tells Luke who she'd want at her rock 'n' roll intervention, Ask Me Another host Ophira Eisenberg reveals how a really nice dinner can get you pregnant, and the "gypsy-tinged" trio Devotchka rocks out on the theramin.

Ep. 283 Encore: "Playing the Part" with Maria Bello, Baron Vaughn & Prom Queen Sep 04, 2015

Ep. 283 Encore: "Playing the Part" with Maria Bello, Baron Vaughn & Prom Queen

Ep. 282 Encore: "Dark Matters" with Janeane Garofalo, Chuck Palahniuk & Helio Sequence Aug 27, 2015

Ep. 282 Encore: "Dark Matters" with Janeane Garofalo, Chuck Palahniuk & Helio Sequence

Ep. 281 Encore: "Square Pegs" with Dan Harmon, Jackie Kashian & Eyelids Aug 20, 2015

Ep. 281 Encore: "Square Pegs" with Dan Harmon, Jackie Kashian & Eyelids

Ep. 280 Encore: "Drawn Together" with Andy Richter, Bill Plympton, Ken Jennings & Kyle Morton Aug 13, 2015

Ep. 280 Encore: "Drawn Together" with Andy Richter, Bill Plympton, Ken Jennings & Kyle Morton

Ep. 279 Encore: "Going Gonzo" with Jon Ronson, Mac McClelland, Jed Arkley and Katie Watkins & Ivan and Alyosha Aug 06, 2015

Ep. 279 Encore: "Going Gonzo" with Jon Ronson, Mac McClelland, Jed Arkley and Katie Watkins & Ivan and Alyosha

Ep. 278 Encore: "Coming Clean" with David Bronner, Will Hines & Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires Jul 30, 2015

Ep. 278 Encore: "Coming Clean" with David Bronner, Will Hines & Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires

Ep. 277 Encore: "Stories to Tell" with MK Asante, Mindy Nettifee & Mighty Oaks Jul 23, 2015

Ep. 277 Encore: "Stories to Tell" with MK Asante, Mindy Nettifee & Mighty Oaks

Ep. 275 Encore: "Let's Be Frank" with Barney Frank, Aparna Nancherla & Joe Pug Jul 16, 2015

Ep. 275 Encore: "Let's Be Frank" with Barney Frank, Aparna Nancherla & Joe Pug

Ep. 274 Encore: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan Jul 12, 2015

Ep. 274 Encore: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan

Ep. 285: "Indie-pendence" with Cameron Esposito, Wil Wheaton, Bill Plympton & Melissa Etheridge Jul 05, 2015

Ep. 285: "Indie-pendence" with Cameron Esposito, Wil Wheaton, Bill Plympton & Melissa Etheridge

Ep. 273 Encore: "The Sky's The Limit" with Gregory Gourdet & Doug Adams, Sara Seager & Loch Lomond Jun 28, 2015

Ep. 273 Encore: "The Sky's The Limit" with Gregory Gourdet & Doug Adams, Sara Seager & Loch Lomond

Ep. 272 Encore: "Gaming the System" with Daniel Handler, Mary Pilon & Lucky Peterson Jun 21, 2015

Ep. 272 Encore: "Gaming the System" with Daniel Handler, Mary Pilon & Lucky Peterson

Ep. 284: "Unmentionables" with Amy Dickinson, Anna Sale & Sean Rowe Jun 14, 2015

Ep. 284: "Unmentionables" with Amy Dickinson, Anna Sale & Sean Rowe

Ep. 283: "Playing the Part" with Maria Bello, Baron Vaughn & Prom Queen Jun 07, 2015

Ep. 283: "Playing the Part" with Maria Bello, Baron Vaughn & Prom Queen

Ep. 282: "Dark Matters" with Janeane Garofalo, Chuck Palahniuk & Helio Sequence May 29, 2015

Ep. 282: "Dark Matters" with Janeane Garofalo, Chuck Palahniuk & Helio Sequence

Ep. 271 Encore: "You Think You're So Smart" with Martin Starr, David Shields & Caleb Powell & Martin Sexton May 24, 2015

Ep. 271 Encore: "You Think You're So Smart" with Martin Starr, David Shields & Caleb Powell & Martin Sexton

Ep. 281: "Square Pegs" with Dan Harmon, Jackie Kashian & Eyelids May 17, 2015

Ep. 281: "Square Pegs" with Dan Harmon, Jackie Kashian & Eyelids

Ep. 280: "Drawn Together" with Andy Richter, Bill Plympton, Ken Jennings & Kyle Morton May 10, 2015

Ep. 280: "Drawn Together" with Andy Richter, Bill Plympton, Ken Jennings & Kyle Morton

Ep. 279: "Going Gonzo" with Jon Ronson, Mac McClelland, Jed Arkley and Katie Watkins & Ivan and Alyosha May 03, 2015

Ep. 279: "Going Gonzo" with Jon Ronson, Mac McClelland, Jed Arkley and Katie Watkins & Ivan and Alyosha

Ep. 278: "Coming Clean" with David Bronner, Will Hines & Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires Apr 26, 2015

Ep. 278: "Coming Clean" with David Bronner, Will Hines & Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires

Ep. 277: "Stories to Tell" with MK Asante, Mindy Nettifee & Mighty Oaks Apr 19, 2015

Ep. 277: "Stories to Tell" with MK Asante, Mindy Nettifee & Mighty Oaks

Ep. 276: "Risky Business" with Ian Karmel, Kevin Allison & Houndstooth Apr 12, 2015

Ep. 276: "Risky Business" with Ian Karmel, Kevin Allison & Houndstooth

Ep. 275: "Let's Be Frank" with Barney Frank, Aparna Nancherla & Joe Pug Apr 05, 2015

Ep. 275: "Let's Be Frank" with Barney Frank, Aparna Nancherla & Joe Pug

Ep. 274: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan Mar 29, 2015

Ep. 274: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan

Ep. 274: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan Mar 29, 2015

Ep. 274: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan

Ep. 273: "The Sky's The Limit" with Gregory Gourdet & Doug Adams, Sara Seager & Loch Lomond Mar 22, 2015

Ep. 273: "The Sky's The Limit" with Gregory Gourdet & Doug Adams, Sara Seager & Loch Lomond

Ep. 272: "Gaming the System" with Daniel Handler, Mary Pilon & Lucky Peterson Mar 15, 2015

Ep. 272: "Gaming the System" with Daniel Handler, Mary Pilon & Lucky Peterson

Ep. 271: "You Think You're So Smart" with Martin Starr, David Shields & Caleb Powell & Martin Sexton Mar 08, 2015

Ep. 271: "You Think You're So Smart" with Martin Starr, David Shields & Caleb Powell & Martin Sexton

Ep. 270: "The Grown Up Table" with Kelly Williams Brown, Ahamefule Oluo & Lost Lander Mar 01, 2015

Ep. 270: "The Grown Up Table" with Kelly Williams Brown, Ahamefule Oluo & Lost Lander

Live Wire 250: Wendi McLendon-Covey, Ken Jennings, Ages and Ages Feb 24, 2015

Live Wire 250: Wendi McLendon-Covey, Ken Jennings, Ages and Ages

Ep. 269: "Committed" with Maz Jobrani, Sarah Koenig, Lindy West & Edna Vazquez Feb 22, 2015

Ep. 269: "Committed" with Maz Jobrani, Sarah Koenig, Lindy West & Edna Vazquez

Ep. 268: "Love Wire" with Valentine's Day Special - Derrick Brown, Cheryl Strayed, Steve Almond, Laura Gibson & Dolorean Feb 15, 2015

Ep. 268: "Love Wire" with Valentine's Day Special - Derrick Brown, Cheryl Strayed, Steve Almond, Laura Gibson & Dolorean

Live Wire 264 Encore: Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce, Alialujah Choir Feb 01, 2015

Live Wire 264 Encore: Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce, Alialujah Choir

Episode 116 Jan 31, 2015

Episode 116

Episode 186 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 186

Episode 185 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 185

Episode 157 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 157 Encore

Episode 164 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 164 Encore

Episode 167 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 167

Episode 160 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 160

Episode 158 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 158 Encore

Episode 163 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 163

Episode 171 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 171

Episode 183 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 183

Episode 166 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 166

Episode 179 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 179

Episode 139 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 139 Encore

Episode 178 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 178

Episode 184 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 184

Episode 177 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 177

Episode 161 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 161 Encore

Episode 170 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 170

Episode 164 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 164

Episode 172 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 172

Episode 162 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 162 Encore

Episode 169 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 169

Episode 180 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 180

Episode 165 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 165

Episode 161 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 161

Episode 176 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 176

Episode 175 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 175

Episode 162 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 162

Episode 160 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 160 Encore

Episode 168 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 168

Episode 195 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 195 Encore

Episode 159 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 159

Episode 144 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 144 Encore

Episode 157 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 157

Episode 143 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 143 Encore

Episode 133 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 133 Encore

Episode 145 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 145 Encore

Episode 136 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 136 Encore

Episode 154 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 154 Encore

Episode 148 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 148 Encore

Episode 126 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 126 Encore

Episode 123 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 123 Encore

Episode 129 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 129 Encore

Episode 131 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 131 Encore

Episode 158 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 158

Episode 156 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 156

Episode 147 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 147

Episode 149 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 149

Episode 148 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 148

Episode 143 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 143

Episode 140 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 140

Episode 151 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 151

Episode 154 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 154

Episode 137 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 137

Episode 146 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 146

Episode 150 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 150

Episode 153 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 153

Episode 138 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 138

Episode 142 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 142

Episode 139 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 139

Episode 152 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 152

Episode 137 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 137 Encore

Episode 141 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 141

Episode 155 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 155

Episode 134 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 134

Episode 136 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 136

Episode 135 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 135

Episode 124 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 124 Encore

Episode 145 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 145

Episode 144 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 144

Episode 121 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 121

Episode 133 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 133

Episode 125 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 125

Episode 131 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 131

Episode 126 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 126

Episode 124 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 124

Episode 127 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 127

Episode 122 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 122

Episode 123 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 123

Episode 129 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 129

Episode 120 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 120

Episode 117 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 117

Episode 128 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 128

Episode 118 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 118

Episode 132 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 132

Episode 130 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 130

Episode 119 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 119

Episode 201 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 201 Encore

Episode 207 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 207

Episode 209 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 209

Episode 206 Jan 30, 2015

Episode 206

Episode 198 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 198 Encore

Episode 196 Encore Jan 30, 2015

Episode 196 Encore

Episode 208 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 208

Episode 211 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 211

Episode 217 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 217 Encore

Episode 219 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 219 Encore

Episode 213 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 213

Episode 214 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 214 Encore

Episode 215 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 215 Encore

Episode 218 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 218 Encore

Episode 220 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 220 Encore

Podcast Extra: Bobs Burgers Uncut Complete Interview With Unaired 3rd Song Jan 29, 2015

Podcast Extra: Bobs Burgers Uncut Complete Interview With Unaired 3rd Song

Episode 212 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 212

Episode 213 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 213 Encore

Episode 216 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 216

Episode 218 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 218

Episode 215 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 215

Episode 217 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 217

Episode 214 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 214

Episode 210 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 210

Episode 216 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 216 Encore

Live Wire 230: Greg Sestero, William Todd Schultz, Twin Forks Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 230: Greg Sestero, William Todd Schultz, Twin Forks

Live Wire! 222: Think Differently Special - Stephen Tobolowsky, Susan Cain, David Rakoff, Temple Grandin and Alfredo Rodriguez Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire! 222: Think Differently Special - Stephen Tobolowsky, Susan Cain, David Rakoff, Temple Grandin and Alfredo Rodriguez

Live Wire 227: Molly Crabapple, Christina Tosi, Jonathan Coulton Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 227: Molly Crabapple, Christina Tosi, Jonathan Coulton

Episode 212 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 212 Encore

Live Wire 233: Laura Veirs, David Nadelberg/Neil Katcher, Adam Selzer Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 233: Laura Veirs, David Nadelberg/Neil Katcher, Adam Selzer

Live Wire 228: TC Boyle, Ian Doescher, MK Asante, Tanya Donelly Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 228: TC Boyle, Ian Doescher, MK Asante, Tanya Donelly

Live Wire 223: Monsters of Public Radio Special - Ira Glass, Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Garrison Keillor, Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 223: Monsters of Public Radio Special - Ira Glass, Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Garrison Keillor, Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside

Live Wire 229: A.M. Homes, Kevin Barry, Michael Hearst Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 229: A.M. Homes, Kevin Barry, Michael Hearst

Live Wire 226: Todd Barry, Earl Blumenauer, Ramona Falls Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 226: Todd Barry, Earl Blumenauer, Ramona Falls

Episode 209 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 209 Encore

Episode 221 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 221 Encore

Live Wire 224: James McBride, Davy Rothbart, musical guests Wild Ones Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 224: James McBride, Davy Rothbart, musical guests Wild Ones

Episode 223 Encore: Monsters of Public Radio Special - Ira Glass, Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Garrison Keillor, Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside Jan 29, 2015

Episode 223 Encore: Monsters of Public Radio Special - Ira Glass, Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Garrison Keillor, Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside

Episode 231 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 231 Encore

Live Wire 236: David Folkenflik, April Richardson, Shelby Earl Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 236: David Folkenflik, April Richardson, Shelby Earl

Live Wire 235: Thanksgiving Special with Simon Singh, Samantha Hess, Augusten Burroughs, Cheryl Strayed, Holcombe Waller, Year Afar Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 235: Thanksgiving Special with Simon Singh, Samantha Hess, Augusten Burroughs, Cheryl Strayed, Holcombe Waller, Year Afar

Live Wire 225: Lynn Shelton, Stacy Bolt, musical guests Thao and the Get Down Stay Down Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 225: Lynn Shelton, Stacy Bolt, musical guests Thao and the Get Down Stay Down

Live Wire 231: Brian Michael Bendis, John Gorham, 1939 Ensemble Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 231: Brian Michael Bendis, John Gorham, 1939 Ensemble

Live Wire 220: Kristen Schaal and Scott Jacobson, Lisa Hanawalt, Courtenay Hameister, musical guests Laura Gibson and John Roderick Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 220: Kristen Schaal and Scott Jacobson, Lisa Hanawalt, Courtenay Hameister, musical guests Laura Gibson and John Roderick

Live Wire 221: Jen Kirkman, Dan Savage, The Builders and the Butchers Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 221: Jen Kirkman, Dan Savage, The Builders and the Butchers

Live Wire 237: Stephen Tobolowsky, Storm Large, Rodney Hicks, Ophira Eisenberg Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 237: Stephen Tobolowsky, Storm Large, Rodney Hicks, Ophira Eisenberg

Live Wire 232: Peter Bagge, Karen Karbo, Old Light Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 232: Peter Bagge, Karen Karbo, Old Light

Live Wire 234: Portugal.The Man, Steve Young, Sarah Mirk Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 234: Portugal.The Man, Steve Young, Sarah Mirk

Episode 225 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 225 Encore

Live Wire 238: Dana Gould, Lindy West, and Blitzen Trapper Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire 238: Dana Gould, Lindy West, and Blitzen Trapper

Episode 227 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 227 Encore

Live Wire! 219: Marc Maron, Monica Drake, musical guests Natasha Kmeto, The Doubleclicks Jan 29, 2015

Live Wire! 219: Marc Maron, Monica Drake, musical guests Natasha Kmeto, The Doubleclicks

Episode 228 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 228 Encore

Podcast Extra: Daniel Stern sings an original composition Jan 29, 2015

Podcast Extra: Daniel Stern sings an original composition

Episode 195 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 195

Episode 181 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 181

Episode 229 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 229 Encore

Podcast Extra: Reggie Watts Interview Jan 29, 2015

Podcast Extra: Reggie Watts Interview

Episode 193 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 193 Encore

Episode 230 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 230 Encore

Episode 236 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 236 Encore

Podcast Extra: John Wesley Harding and The Faces For Radio Theater Jan 29, 2015

Podcast Extra: John Wesley Harding and The Faces For Radio Theater

Podcast Extra: The Living Room Sessions Jan 29, 2015

Podcast Extra: The Living Room Sessions

Podcast Extra: Storm's Catchy Tune Jan 29, 2015

Podcast Extra: Storm's Catchy Tune

Episode 191 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 191 Encore

Episode 192 Studio Sessions Compilation Jan 29, 2015

Episode 192 Studio Sessions Compilation

Episode 190 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 190 Encore

Episode 202 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 202

Episode 173 Studio Sessions Compilation Jan 29, 2015

Episode 173 Studio Sessions Compilation

Episode 200 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 200

Episode 204 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 204

Episode 189 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 189

Episode 128 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 128 Encore

Episode 190 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 190

Episode 194 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 194

Episode 197 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 197

Episode 191 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 191

Episode 174 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 174 Encore

Episode 203 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 203

Episode 193 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 193

Episode 198 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 198

Episode 199 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 199

Episode 168 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 168 Encore

Episode 201 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 201

Episode 196 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 196

Episode 205 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 205

Episode 174 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 174

Episode 179 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 179 Encore

Episode 178 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 178 Encore

Episode 183 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 183 Encore

Episode 175 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 175 Encore

Episode 187 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 187

Episode 182 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 182 Encore

Episode 182 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 182

Episode 188 Jan 29, 2015

Episode 188

Episode 177 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 177 Encore

Episode 156 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 156 Encore

Episode 181 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 181 Encore

Episode 185 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 185 Encore

Episode 176 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 176 Encore

Episode 167 Encore Jan 29, 2015

Episode 167 Encore

Ep. 259: "The Hard Way" with Steve Almond, Georgina Hayns & Horse Feathers Jan 18, 2015

Ep. 259: "The Hard Way" with Steve Almond, Georgina Hayns & Horse Feathers

Live Wire 257 Encore: Peter Sagal, Chelsea Cain, Eef Barzelay Jan 11, 2015

Live Wire 257 Encore: Peter Sagal, Chelsea Cain, Eef Barzelay

Live Wire 258 Encore: Nicholas Kristof, Mike Pesca, Bill Frisell Jan 04, 2015

Live Wire 258 Encore: Nicholas Kristof, Mike Pesca, Bill Frisell

Ep. 260: "Such Great Heights" with Robin Lopez, Derrick Brown & Hook & Anchor Jan 02, 2015

Ep. 260: "Such Great Heights" with Robin Lopez, Derrick Brown & Hook & Anchor

Ep. 263: "Power of Two" with Joshua Wolf Shenk, Anis Mojgani & Fernando Jan 02, 2015

Ep. 263: "Power of Two" with Joshua Wolf Shenk, Anis Mojgani & Fernando

Ep. 264: "Art and Science of Being a Lady" with Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce & Alialujah Choir Jan 02, 2015

Ep. 264: "Art and Science of Being a Lady" with Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce & Alialujah Choir

Ep. 256: "Taste" with Beth Federici & Kathleen Squires, Ben Jacobsen & Little Freddie King Jan 02, 2015

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