Fresh Air
Weekdays at 7:00pm
Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.
Why anti-fascist vigilantes are infiltrating far-right white nationalist groups
by Terry Gross
New Yorker writer David Kirkpatrick says anti-fascists are using extra judicial methods to do what the FBI can't, by infiltrating white nationalist groups to expose them and planned attacks.
How A Historical Blunder Helped Create The Water Crisis In The West
In 1922, seven states drew up a plan for dividing the waters of the Colorado River. But they overestimated how much water the river could provide — and now 40 million Americans face a water crisis.
It's All In Your Head: Director Pete Docter Gets Emotional In 'Inside Out'
The new film illustrates the inner workings of an 11-year-old's mind. Her emotions — Sadness, Fear, Anger, Disgust and Joy — are the stars. Originally broadcast June 10, 2015.
From SCOTUS To The Confederate Flag, Cable Comedians Keep Tabs On The News
by David Bianculli
Critic David Bianculli says the commentary, questioning and ridicule of Jon Stewart, Larry Wilmore, John Oliver and Bill Maher help keep news outlets — and news-makers — honest.
'Dope' Director On Geekdom, The N-Word And Confronting Racism With Comedy
Rick Famuyiwa's new film is about a black high-school student who's into 90s hip hop and Japanese comic books. He calls Dope a celebration of kids whose interests don't fit into pop-culture norms.
How A Stolen Backpack In Casablanca Inspired A Novel About Shifting Identity
The main character in Vendela Vida's new novel is alone in Morocco when her bag with her passport and credit cards is stolen. Vida says The Diver's Clothes Lie Empty was inspired by her own travels.
Jerry Douglas' Tribute To Bluegrass Legends Lester Flatt And Earl Scruggs
Jerry Douglas, considered by many to be the best dobro player in the world, brings his instrument to the studio and talks about his new album, The Earls of Leceister, a tribute to Flatt and Scruggs.
Mat Johnson On 'Loving Day' And Life As A 'Black Boy' Who Looks White
As a biracial child growing up in Philadelphia, writer Mat Johnson identified as black – but looked white. His new novel is about a man who returns to his hometown after inheriting a run-down mansion.
'BrotherLee Love' Offers A Fearless, Fresh Tribute To Trumpeter Lee Morgan
by Kevin Whitehead
Terell Stafford and his quintet bring a warm and hefty tone to a tribute album honoring the late Philadelphia horn player Lee Morgan. Kevin Whitehead says the new album is risky — but successful.
How Scientists Created A Typhus Vaccine In A 'Fantastic Laboratory'
Writer Arthur Allen describes how a WWII scientist in Poland smuggled the typhus vaccine to Jews — while his team made a weakened version for the Nazis. Originally broadcast July 22, 2014.
'Fresh Air' Remembers Johnny Gimble, The 'King Of The Swing Fiddle'
Gimble, who died Saturday at the age of 88, spent years playing fiddle with the Texas Playboys. He was regarded by critics as one of the best to ever pick up a bow. Originally broadcast April 9, 2010.
Leon Bridges Offers Retro R&B With A Twist In 'Coming Home'
by Ken Tucker
The Texas-raised singer connects to R&B music from the past — and challenges himself to give it an updated sound — in his new album. Critic Ken Tucker says Bridges' album packs an emotional punch.