Chicago Humanities Tapes

Margaret Atwood is joined in conversation with author Elif Batuman to unfold the story of her life, linking seminal moments to the books that have shaped our literary landscape, from the cruel year that spawned Cat's Eye to the Orwellian 1980s Berlin where she wrote The Handmaid's Tale. As we travel with her along the course of her life, more and more is revealed about her writing, the connections between real life and art, and the workings of one of our greatest imaginations.   Podcast Credits: Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Nikki Konomos Live event stage managed by Kait Samuels Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar Production assistance by Rebecca Dose Podcast edited and mixed by Katherine Kermgard Voiceover by Anthony Fleming III Transcription assistance by Micquela Washington Subscribe Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events Instagram • YouTube • Facebook • LinkedIn

Acclaimed author Ron Chernow, of Hamilton fame, is one of the most renowned voices in history and politics. Recipient of the 2015 National Humanities Medal, Chernow has dedicated his life to telling the stories of some of the most notable figures in history. Chernow joins The Interview Show host Mark Bazer to discuss his newest work, Mark Twain, a nuanced portrait of "the father of American literature." Drawing  on thousands of letters and hundreds of unpublished manuscripts, Chernow captures the exuberant genius whose career reflected the country's westward expansion, industrialization and foreign wars, and became the white author of his generation who grappled most fully with the legacy of slavery. Hear from Chernow as he sheds light on the life of Mark Twain — from his start as a brash journalist to his days as the most notable political pundit in the U.S.   [Podcast Credits] Live event programmed by Mark Bazer Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Rebecca Dose Live event produced and mixed by Dan Glomski Production assistance by Aaron Stephenson / Micquela Washington Podcast edited and mixed by Katherine Kermgard Voiceover by Anthony Fleming III  Subscribe Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn

Actor, comedian, writer, and producer Ed Helms joins us in conversation with podcast host and producer Greta Johnsen to discuss his new book SNAFU, which brings you an absurdly entertaining look at history's greatest screwups. Helms steps in as unofficial history teacher diving into each decade's craziest SNAFUs like planting nukes on the moon to training felines as CIA spies to weaponizing the weather. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript CW: Mature language and subject matter Photo: Ed Helms (right) and Greta Johnsen (left) on stage at First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in May 2025.   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Kait Samuels  Live event produced and mixed by Dan Glomski Production assistance by Carl Herzog / Hope Mignini Podcast edited and mixed by Katherine Kermgard Voiceover by Anthony Fleming III Subscribe Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events. Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Beloved novelist, poet, and educator Ocean Vuong joins his friend and colleague Adrian Matejka, editor of Poetry magazine, for a hilarious, heartbreaking, and affirming conversation about the power of the sentence. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Discussion of drug addiction PHOTO: Ocean Vuong and Adrian Matejka on stage at the Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in May 2025.   Read: Ocean Vuong, The Emperor of Gladness Ocean Vuong, On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous Poetry Magazine   Explore: Ben Lerner Yusef Komunyakaa Sharon Olds Djuna Barnes, Knightwood Lyn Hejinian Bernadette Mayer Bhanu Kapil Theresa Hak Kyung Cha's, Dictée Lady Murasaki, The Tale of Genji Phillis Wheatley Jupiter Hammon Harriet Jacobs Annie Dillard César Vallejo André Breton, Manifestoes of Surrealism Aimé Césaire, Notebook of a Return to My Native Land Federico García Lorca Gabriel García Márquez Édouard Glissant Frantz Fanon Claude McKay John Keats Walt Whitman Emily Dickinson Kevin Young Jeff Van Gundy   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Danny Fender Live event produced and mixed by Nick Broste Production assistance by River Williams and Logan Venezia Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Subscribe Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey. Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   B3EYK2S9BZSDLJ60

Originator of the role Aaron Burr in the Broadway smash hit Hamiliton, Leslie Odom, Jr. reflects on his Tony and Grammy Award-winning, Oscar and Emmy Award-nominated career. With a loving eye toward his own creative practice and collaborative spirit, he gabs with NBC's Matthew Rodrigues on self-care, fame, and might just bring us a little Christmas in June by the end. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Matthew Rodrigues and Leslie Odom, Jr. on stage at Francis W. Parker School at the Chicago Humanities 2025 Spring Festival.   Read: Leslie Odom, Jr., Failing Up: How to Take Risks, Aim Higher, and Never Stop Learning   Watch: One Night in Miami... trailer Leslie Odom Jr. Sings A Change is Gonna Come Purlie Victorious PBS Great Performances   Explore: https://www.instagram.com/rodriguesmatt/   Live event programmed by Kaity O'Reilly Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Sophia Fishkin Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar Production assistance by Hope Mignini, Rach Granillo, Bucky Emmerling, and Cody Kressman Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Subscribe Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey. Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   YMVWX4N4Y1RK1WA4  

Our goal at Chicago Humanities Tapes is to help you get closer to the answers to life's biggest questions with the brightest minds the world offers. And we'll get those answers eventually according to philosopher Agnes Callard, though it might take another 10,000 years of humanity. So, how do we live our lives knowing we'll never know the answers to life's biggest questions such as: is there a God? What makes a good parent? Should I have gone into academia? Her and University of Chicago constitutional law professor William Baude think the answer is in the Socratic method – asking questions without the goal of persuasion, being ok without getting answers, and living a life examined. This spirited conversation also touches on confirmation bias, the challenges of making new friends as an adult, and how to pause and ask yourself those big philosophical questions… without being driven to madness. SHOW NOTES Read the podcast transcript. CW: Mentions of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988 lifeline.org.   PHOTO: Agnes Callard and William Baude.   Read: Open Socrates: The Case for a Philosophical Life, Agnes Callard   Listen: Minds Almost Meeting podcast   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Rebecca Dose, Juju Laurie, Aryn Henderson Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar, Ryn Hardiman, Nick Broste Production assistance by River Williams and Logan Venezia Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Subscribe Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey. Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   056OVXZETU2IQKY4

Bestselling authors and popular podcasters Ezra Klein (The New York Times) and Derek Thompson (The Atlantic) are interested in societal abundance – how do we get closer to equality when it seems like we're getting farther from having enough resources for everyone? Joined by historian and science fiction writer Ada Palmer, these three brilliant minds joyfully dig into everything from futurism to Shakespeare, encouraging listeners to combat daily despair with progressive action. Subscribe to the podcast. SHOW NOTES Watch the full program here. Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Ezra Klein, Derek Thompson, and Ada Palmer on stage at the UIC Dorin Forum at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2025.   Read: Abundance, Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson Why We're Polarized, Ezra Klein Inventing the Renaissance: The Myth of a Golden Age, Ada Palmer   Listen: The Ezra Klein Show Plain English with Derek Thompson   Explore: adapalmer.com Kathleen Belew, "the early adopter effect" Jay Van Bavel on how internet warps communication and language Marshall McLuhan and Neil Postman on technology J. Storrs Hall on futurism Fix the News newsletter   Live event programmed by Mark Bazer Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Sophia Fishkin Live event produced and mixed by Joe Darnaby Production assistance by River Williams Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey. Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   T3JJTTLPKSKZIGYS

Join fine art painters turned sign designers turned book publishers Andrew and Kelsey McClellan of Heavy Pages Press on a lovingly nerdy investigation through the signs of Chicago's small businesses of yesteryear. A chance encounter with a perfectly preserved "ghost sign" by the Beverly Design Co. from the 1930s led them to uncover previously lost sign design sketches. They sit down with podcast host Alisa Rosenthal to discuss their book The Golden Era of Sign Design: The Rediscovered Sketches of Beverly Sign Co., what it was like to interview tough talking old timer painters, and their hope for how access to this rediscovered material will usher in the next generation of great designers.  Tickets to Heavy Pages Press with Tanner Woodford, founder and executive director of the Design Museum of Chicago, on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm CT at Co-Prosperity available here. Explore the rest of the Bridgeport Day 2025 events here. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Kelsey and Andrew McClellan and Alisa Rosenthal chat over Zoom.   Read: The Golden Era of Sign Design: The Rediscovered Sketches of Beverly Sign Co., Heavy Pages Press   Explore: Heart & Bone Signs "The Chicago Look" Edition Field Notes The Monadnock Building   Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Additional assistance provided by Lauren Pacheco   Subscribe Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey. Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   NOIVFYY2M8NZSJOW

In support of Chicago-based klezmer band Upshtat Zingerai bringing Yiddish tunes and dancing to the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival, the creative partners behind the Jewish Museum of Chicago sat down with podcast host Alisa Rosenthal to preview the upcoming event. They chat artistic process, visions for having a future physical space, and how the museum project was started to fill a void in the Chicago arts scene as a hub for Jewish artists and community members.  Explore the rest of the Lakeview Day 2025 events here. Subscribe to the podcast • Let us know what you think by taking the short survey   SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Maya Kosover, Gabriel Chalfin-Piney-González, and Alisa Rosenthal talk over Zoom.   Learn more about the Jewish Museum of Chicago Follow @jewishmuseumchicago on Instagram Follow @upshtatzingerai on Instagram Episode photo of Grace Gittelman, a Jewish Museum of Chicago 2024 Artist Fellow. Photo by Ricardo E. Adame.   Edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Additional assistance from Kaity O'Reilly   Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   RNNY2VBKAJUXFLHO

Bronzeville native and preeminent Black pop artist Hebru Brantley joins visual artist and MacArthur Fellow Amanda Williams for a life-affirming conversation that spans the power of unbridled creativity, his inviting marketing strategy, and naturally, a little bit of Chicago vs. LA discourse. This program was recorded live at the Illinois Institute of Technology in May 2024. Subscribe to the podcast • Let us know what you think by taking the short survey   SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Amanda Williams and Hebru Brantley at the Illinois Institute of Technology at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2024.   Read: Hebru Brantley, Hebru Brantley   Explore: Find Hebru Brantley murals near you Amanda Williams, Color(ed) Theory Nevermore Park   Live event programmed by Lauren Pacheco Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Kyle Anderson Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar Production assistance by Christopher Moore and Cody Kressmann Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   HA1LFLRDRPORXNOG

Comedian, Emmy Award-nominated actor, screenwriter, #1 New York Times bestselling author and musician Paul Reiser reflects on stand-up in the '80s, Mad About You, his writing, and his renaissance with roles on Stranger Things and The Kominsky Method. He chats with friend of the fest Mark Bazer, contributing writing to Chicago Magazine and host and executive producer of The Interview Show. Subscribe to the podcast • Let us know what you think by taking the short survey SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Mark Bazer and Paul Reiser on stage at the Music Box Theatre at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2025.   Read: Paul Reiser, What a Fool Believes: A Memoir Paul Reiser, Couplehood   Watch: Paul Reiser: Life, Death & Rice Pudding Mad About You, Mel Brooks and the coupons The Problem with People   Explore: The Interview Show with Mark Bazer   Live event programmed by Mark Bazer Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Juju Laurie Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar Production assistance by Rach Granillo and Preston O'ffill Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   PQOYU7E7ACZWTNOM

Political commentator and New York Times best-selling author Joy Reid is joined by veteran reporter April Ryan for a conversation around Reid's book "Medgar and Myrlie: A Love Story That Awakened America." Representing Delta Sigma Theta, Reid and Ryan's friendship is electric, recorded live in April 2024 at a full house at the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple. Reid and Ryan discuss "Medgar and Myrlie," which chronicles the lives and love story of civil rights icons Medgar Evers and Myrlie Evers-Williams and the crucial groundwork they laid for Black Americans that still reverberates today. Subscribe to the podcast • Let us know what you think by taking the short survey SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Joy Reid and April Ryan on stage at the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2024.   Learn more: Joy Reid, Medgar and Myrlie: A Love Story That Awakened America   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Kait Samuels Live event produced and mixed by Nick Broste Production assistance by Bucky Emmerling and Christopher Moore Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Joseph Alaimo   Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   This video features materials protected by the Fair Use guidelines of Section 107 of the Copyright Act. All rights reserved to the copyright owners. Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. This Little Light of Mine · Swan Silvertones Presenting The Swan Silvertones ℗ 1947 King Records Composer: John Henry Miles, Traditional Lyricist: John Henry Miles, Traditional Music  Publisher: No Publisher [USD0FB31I3L3G0A4]

Today's mini episode is the best of Ali Barthwell (Last Week Tonight with John Oliver) from October 2024's Writing on Eggshells: Political Comedy Cracked Up panel, featuring Peter Grosz (The Colbert Report, Late Night with Seth Meyers) and John Lutz (Late Night with Seth Meyers, Saturday Night Live), moderated by Second City's Kelly Leonard. Chicago's own Barthwell shares war stories from the front lines of touring the country with Second City and the experience of being a Black voice in comedy writers' rooms. Subscribe to the podcast • Let us know what you think by taking the short survey   SHOW NOTES Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity PHOTO: Ali Barthwell, Peter Grosz, Kelly Leonard, John Lutz.   EXPLORE: Ali Barthwell Peter Grosz John Lutz Kelly Leonard   WATCH: John Oliver, "Elmo's mom"   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Sophia Fishkin Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar Production assistance by Hope Mignini, Logan Venezia, and Josh Harlow Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   FNLGD48PTD1IREUE

Four experts discuss the politicization of immigration alongside the normalcy of human migration. Topics include Chicago as a sanctuary city, the need to address root causes, and the importance of centering the humanity of migrants. Northwestern history professor and contributing writer for The New Yorker Geraldo Cadava moderates the panel with UIC professors and immigration experts Dr. Ivón Padilla-Rodríguez, Adam Goodman, and Bárbara Andrea Sostaita. SHOW NOTES Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Bárbara Andrea Sostaita, Adam Goodman, Dr. Ivón Padilla-Rodríguez, and Geraldo Cadava at the National Museum of Mexican Art at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in September 2024.   READ: Geraldo Cadava, latest works Bárbara Andrea Sostaita, Sanctuary Everywhere: The Fugitive Sacred in the Sonoran Desert Adam Goodman, The Deportation Machine: America's Long History of Expelling Immigrants Dr. Ivón Padilla-Rodríguez, selected publications   FURTHER READING: Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, As We Have Always Done, Indigenous Freedom through Radical Resistance New York Times, Alone and Exploited, Migrant Children Work Brutal Jobs Across the U.S. Hidetaka Hirota, Expelling the Poor: Atlantic Seaboard States and the Nineteenth-Century Origins of American Immigration Policy Block Club Chicago, Southeast Mutual Aid Helping Migrants, Neighbors Alike: 'There Will Always Be A Need', South Shore Thanksgiving Party An 'Olive Branch' Between Longtime Residents, Migrants   EXPLORE: National Museum of Mexican Art Sanctuary Campus Movement Elvira Arellano The Sanctuary Movement in Chicago Dora Rodriguez Panchito Governing Immigration Through Crime ACLU Know Your Rights, 100 Mile Border Zone Migrant Roots Media Kino Border Initiative Mijente #NoTechForICE Rigo Padilla Organized Communities Against Deportation Bracero Program DACA – Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals   Live event programmed by Mark Bazer Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Sophia Fishkin and Devonte Washington Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Subscribe Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey. Donate now to support programs like this. Explore upcoming events.   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   9YKHYYLUOY4RBYJK

Adrianne Black has an incredible story along with a profound evolution. Her father was a former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, and she was raised as a frequent spokesperson for the white nationalist movement as a child. Her memoir "The Klansman's Son" details the shift from spreading hate on TV to attending weekly Shabbat dinners. In today's program, she's joined at her alma mater the University of Chicago by her friend and National Jewish Book Award Winner Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg for a conversation spanning Black's transgender identity, her relationship with her family, and how to stay progressively productive in the face of increasingly visible white supremacy.  SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg and Adrianne Black at the University of Chicago in Fall 2024.   Learn more: R. Derek Black, The Klansman's Son: My Journey from White Nationalism to Antiracism: A Memoir Danya Ruttenberg, On Repentance and Repair: Making Amends in an Unapologetic World   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Rebecca Dose Live event produced and mixed by Kyle Anderson Production assistance by Bucky Emmerling, Hope Mignini, and Cody Kressman Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey: http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=1Pk_AtHDS9DU&ver=short Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   FRATSIXVB6LQLNGU

Linguist Anne Curzan has thoughts on your language pet peeves, including "these ones," "dilly-dally," and "sneaked" versus "snuck" (or would it be sneaked "versing" snuck?). She looks into historical examples of language changes that were once controversial and now are no bigs – and how we can be more kind by celebrating diversity in language rather than judging it. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript.   PHOTO: Author photo of Anne Curzan.   READ: Anne Curzan, Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Words   LISTEN: That's What They Say podcast   WATCH: What makes a word "real"? TED Talk Jennifer Garner Corrects Conan's Grammar – Late Night with Conan O'Brien Whoever or Whomever? – The Office   EXPLORE: Google Books Ngram Viewer Lizzie Skurnick, "Grammando"  "Lincoln Riley Thinks Your Quiet" Richard Grant White  Thomas De Quincey  Samuel Rogers  George Lakoff  John McWhorter    Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Juju Laurie and Devonte Washington Live event produced and mixed by Jeff Kolar Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656   Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey: http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=1Pk_AtHDS9DU&ver=short   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   JVJBWR8ZZAHVA0AV

MacArthur Genius Grant winner Dylan C. Penningroth explores the lesser known history of Black legal engagement and activism prior to the modern civil rights era. Through thorough research including combing through deeds, licenses, and his own family history, he sits down for a riveting chat with Aldon Morris, Professor of Sociology and African American Studies at Northwestern University. SHOW NOTES Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Dylan C. Penningroth and Aldon Morris   Read: Dylan C. Penningroth, Before the Movement: The Hidden History of Black Civil Rights Aldon Morris, The Origins of the Civil Rights Movements:Black Communities Organizing for Change   Explore: Kendra Field, The Privilege of Family History Ulrich Bonnell Phillips, Life And Labor in the Old South Derrick Bell and "What is critical race theory?"   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Devonte Washington Live event produced and mixed by Loren Ames Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Podcast copy assistance from David Vish and Katherine Kermgard Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Help shape the future of the podcast! Let us know what you think by taking the short survey: http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=1Pk_AtHDS9DU&ver=short Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   HS2DS9RYD6TDGX6O

Edward Burns (The Brothers McMullen, Saving Private Ryan, 27 Dresses) stops by Chicagoland's long running live talk show The Interview Show with Mark Bazer for a special partnership episode with Chicago Humanities. Recorded live at Fitzgerald's in Berwyn, Burns chats with Bazer on topics including acting opposite Tom Hanks, his Irish Catholic Long Island upbringing, and how he got his own movies made. Plus, a hilarious interlude with professional hot dog eating champ Patrick Bertoletti and dreamy folk country music from Elizabeth Moen.   SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity PHOTO: Edward Burns and Mark Bazer on stage at Fitzgerald's in partnership with Chicago Humanities in Fall 2024.   Read: Edward Burns, A Kid From Marlboro Road   Listen: Elizabeth Moen Bandcamp   Explore: edwardburns.net Elizabeth Moen Instagram Patrick Bertoletti Instagram theinterviewshowchicago.com   ​​Live event programmed by Michael Green and Mark Bazer Live event produced by Mark Bazer Live event assistance from Sam Leapely Live event sound from Mike Sharp Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   GFLAVULBWSLRKKHT  

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson invites the public into her world in this inspiring conversation with Valerie Jarrett, Chief Executive Officer of the Barack Obama Foundation. Tracing her family's journey from segregation to her Supreme Court confirmation, topics include overcoming self-doubt, gratitude for family, and an enduring commitment to democracy. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson on stage at the Harris Theater at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in 2024.   READ: Ketanji Brown Jackson, Lovely One: A Memoir   WATCH: Ketanji Brown Jackson's husband tearful as she begins Supreme Court nominee process Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson is Moved to Tears by Senator Cory Booker's Remarks During Hearing   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Kait Samuels Live event produced and mixed by Dan Glomski Production assistance by Preston O'ffill and Cody Kressman Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Podcast copy assistance from David Vish and Katherine Kermgard   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   P5A8RGCA3ROMXI4A

Best-selling children's author R.L. Stine shares all the devious dirt on his over 30 years of writing Goosebumps, plus hauntingly hilarious stories from his inadvertent rise to becoming the king of middle grade horror. Chatting with the Chicago Tribune's Chris Borrelli at the historic Music Box Theatre, Stine reminisces on his Ohio childhood and favorite comedians of the '50s, then looks ahead by dropping the scary scoop on the many forthcoming film and TV adaptations of his books. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. Suggested rating: PG PHOTO: R.L. Stine and Chris Borrelli on stage at the Music Box Theatre at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in 2024.   READ: R.L. Stine, Goosebumps R.L. Stine, Fear Street R.L. Stine, Stinetinglers R.L. Stine, Shark Night R.L. Stine, The Graveyard Club #1 R.L. Stine in the New York Times, R.L. Stine's Favorite Halloween Books Will Give Your Kids Goosebumps   WATCH: Goosebumps on Disney+ Twilight Zone: A Stop at Willoughby   Production assistance by River Williams and Preston O'ffill Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Podcast copy assistance from Katherine Kermgard and Beyza Ozer Additional podcast assistance from David Vish   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   IQTKKZVX9EQLWGBI  

Iranian-American author Kaveh Akbar joins us in the Chicago Humanities Tapes studio for an exclusive conversation about his debut novel Martyr!, which was recently shortlisted for the 2024 National Book Award. He chats with podcast host Alisa Rosenthal about his poetry background as a novelist, the multitudes we hold during times of tragedy, his love of Chicago, and '90s nostalgia. Plus, a brief preview of his live 10/26 Chicago Humanities event with fellow Midwestern author John Green. Watch Kaveh Akbar's conversation with John Green here.   SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Mention of suicide If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.   PHOTO: Alisa Rosenthal and Kaveh Akbar chat over Zoom. READ: Kaveh Akbar, Martyr!: A Novel   Edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Copy assistance from Katherine Kermgard Additional assistance from Mark Bazer and David Vish   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   SCWPJ3ZVKBFRO4H0

In her latest book, The Art of Architectural Grafting, architect and MacArthur Fellow Jeanne Gang digs into how the horticultural practice of "grafting" — joining a new plant to an older one so they can grow and thrive as one — inspires a fresh paradigm for sustainable design. As the founding partner of architecture and urban design practice Studio Gang, Jeanne and her firm are known for designing the 82-story Aqua Tower on Chicago's skyline and the St. Regis Chicago. Then, she's joined by Lee Bey, an editorial writer and architecture critic for the Chicago Sun-Times, for a lively and humorous chat through Chicago's contemporary architecture problems and promises. Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Jeanne Gang and Lee Bey at the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2024.   Read: Jeanne Gang, The Art of Architectural Grafting Marc-Antoine Laugier, An Essay on Architecture Daniel M. Abramson, Obsolescence: An Architectural History Leo Marx, The Machine in the Garden Emanuele Coccia, The Life of Plants: A Metaphysics of Mixture   Explore: Guerilla Grafters Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts American Museum of Natural History Richard Gilder Center   Live event programmed by Lauren Pacheco Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Kait Samuels Live event produced and mixed by Nick Broste Production assistance by Christopher Moore and Josh Harlow Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Podcast copy assistance from Katherine Kermgard Additional support provided by David Vish Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   DQVZBZEDINGWTZUG  

Chicago-based artist and educator Alberto Aguilar is known for his powerful and off-the-wall juxtapositions, from coiling water hoses in gardens to arranging donated shoes in front of the Centro Romero immigration aid center, or sneakily propping open a side door of the Art Institute, inviting other troublemakers inside… Aguilar joins podcast host Alisa Rosenthal for an exclusive interview at his home studio, where they chat about his art-making process as well as preview Chicago Humanities's free day of events, Pilsen Day Art & Experiences on Sunday September 29, 2024. El artista y docente radicado en Chicago Alberto Aguilar es conocido por sus poderosas y extravagantes yuxtaposiciones, desde enrollar mangueras de agua en jardines hasta arreglar zapatos donados frente al sitio de ayuda a inmigrantes Centro Romero, o abrir sigilosamente una puerta lateral del Instituto de Arte invitando a otros alborotadores a entrar. Aguilar se reune con la presentadora de podcast Alisa Rosenthal para una entrevista exclusiva en el estudio de su casa donde conversan sobre el proceso de creación de su arte, así como un adelanto del día de eventos gratuito Pilsen Day Art & Experiences (Día de Arte y Experiencias en Pilsen) del Chicago Humanities, el domingo 29 de septiembre de 2024.   SHOW NOTES: MOSTRAR NOTAS: Read the podcast transcript. Lea la transcripción del podcast. PHOTO: Alberto Aguilar and Alisa Rosenthal at Aguilar's home studio. FOTO: Alberto Aguilar y Alisa Rosenthal en el estudio de la casa de Aguilar.   PHOTO: A closeup of Alberto Aguilar's dining table made of Chicago Public School tables. FOTO: Primer plano de la mesa de comedor de Alberto Aguilar hecha con mesas de Escuelas Públicas de Chicago (CPS).   PHOTO: Framed photo from Alberto Aguilar's wall. FOTO: Foto enmarcada del muro de Alberto Aguilar.   Explore: albertoaguilar.org PACH Pilsen Arts & Community House Art Design Chicago The Cleve Carney Museum of Art at the College of DuPage Your Art Disgusts Me: Early Asco 1971-75   Explorar: albertoaguilar.org Casa comunitaria y artística PACH Pilsen Diseño de arte Chicago El Museo de Arte Cleve Carney en el College of DuPage Tu arte me repugna: principios de Asco 1971-75   The Artist in Residence is part of Art Design Chicago, a citywide collaboration initiated by the Terra Foundation for American Art that highlights the city's artistic heritage and creative communities. The Artist in Residence is funded by the Terra Foundation for American Art. El Artista en Residencia es parte de Diseño de Arte Chicago, una colaboración en toda la ciudad iniciada por la Fundación Terra para el Arte Americano que resalta el patrimonio artístico y las comunidades creativas de la ciudad. El Artista en Residencia está financiado por Terra Foundation for American Art.   Programmed by Lauren Pacheco Producing assistance from Sam Leapley Edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Recording assistance from David Vish Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Copy assistance from Katherine Kermgard Spanish language transcript editing by Laura Crotte   Programado por Lauren Pacheco Asistencia de Producción de Sam Lepley Editado y mezclado por Alisa Rosenthal Asistencia de grabación de David Vish Edición de historias de podcast por Alexandra Quinn Asistencia de copia de Katherine Kermgard Edición de transcripciones en español por Laura Crotte   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Suscribir: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Done ahora para apoyar programas como éste: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore los próximos eventos: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   A7RQWOEURX6YF4LK

Public radio and podcasting icon Greta Johnsen brings her consummate hypewoman energy to the Chicago Humanities Tapes studio. Topics include community building from her WBEZ podcast Nerdette days, her newsletter era, and being the co-host of The Official Game of Thrones Podcast. She chats with host Alisa Rosenthal on her love of curating as they discuss her upcoming Fall 2024 Chicago Humanities events. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Greta Johnsen and Alisa Rosenthal chat over Zoom.   Read: GRETAGRAM   Listen: The Official Game of Thrones Podcast: House of the Dragon Edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Copy assistance from David Vish and Katherine Kermgard   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn 0CJFTDRM02TD6EGD

Frank Costanza of Seinfeld made "the airing of grievances" into a holiday. Renowned New York Times columnist Frank Bruni has elevated it to an art. Bruni brings his signature thoughtfulness to examining America's obsession with the joy of taking offense. Joined by Interfaith America's Eboo Patel, topics include Fox News, the success of LGBTQIA+ activism, and how unity is essential to a well-functioning society. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Frank Bruni and Eboo Patel on stage at the Chicago History Museum at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2024.   Read: Frank Bruni, The Age of Grievance Frank Bruni, Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania David E. Campbell and Robert D. Putnam, American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us   Listen: Interfaith America with Eboo Patel   Explore: The AIDS Memorial Quilt   Live event programmed by Michael Green Live event produced by Jesse Swanson Live event stage managed by Nikki Konomos Live event mixed by Margaret McCarthy Production assistance by Bucky Emmerling and Josh Harlow Podcast edited and mixed by Alisa Rosenthal Podcast story editing by Alexandra Quinn Podcast copy assistance from David Vish and Katherine Kermgard   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn GOYDW4BRPHGEZFSV  

Beloved New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik explores and celebrates his love of taking up new skills in midlife including magic, drawing, boxing, and even ballroom dancing with his adult daughter. Slipping in and out of French, he discusses his recent book Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery with Gloria Groom, the chair of Painting and Sculpture of Europe and David and Mary Winton Green Curator at the Art Institute of Chicago. SHOW NOTES Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Gloria Groom and Adam Gopnik on stage at the Epiphany Center for the Arts at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in May 2023. Adam Gopnik, Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery Adam Gopnik, Paris to the Moon George Plimpton, Paper Lion: Confessions of a Last-String Quarterback Read: Adam Gopnik, Last of the Metrozoids Explore: Bruce Nauman, "Clown Torture"   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn EZYPNDXC7NO9W5QR

Acclaimed writer Roxane Gay totally called what this week in politics would look like, in a mind-blowingly prescient conversation from November 2023. She's joined by Chicago author Lindsay Hunter for a chat on culture both high and low as represented in her recent book of essays "Opinions: A Decade of Arguments, Criticism, and Minding Other People's Business." Topics range from Biden dropping out of the 2024 election, identity politics, and meaningful civic engagement beyond social media… to Taylor Swift, 2am writing sessions, and which famous authors would make up the best cast of Real Housewives. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Light profanity PHOTO: Lindsay Hunter and Roxane Gay on stage at the University of Chicago at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in November 2023. Roxane Gay, Opinions: A Decade of Arguments, Criticism, and Minding Other People's Business Lindsay Hunter, Hot Springs Drive   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   3PZWZY7EI0IAGH2P

The inspiring Oscar winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter looks back on her career as depicted in Art of Ruth E. Carter: Costuming Black History and the Afrofuture, from Do the Right Thing to Black Panther in conversation with Jacqueline Stewart, the Director and President of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. This episode originally aired on September 12, 2023. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Ruth E. Carter at the Music Box Theatre as part of the Chicago Humanities 2023 Spring Festival. Art of Ruth E. Carter: Costuming Black History and the Afrofuture, from Do the Right Thing to Black Panther, Ruth E. Carter   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Emmy-nominated design expert Bobby Berk swings by Chicago Humanities, in a program recorded just three weeks before his announcement of leaving the popular Netflix makeover show Queer Eye in October of 2023. He chats with Emmy-nominated host Matthew Rodrigues of NBC Chicago Today in a conversation filled with how to build habits in your home, decorating tips, and some behind-the-scenes Queer Eye drama. SHOW NOTES Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Light profanity PHOTO: Matthew Rodrigues and Bobby Berk at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival at Francis W. Parker School in 2023. Bobby Berk, Right at Home   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn   QZKLHSGLZSYSLOUW

The New Yorker's Asher Perlman swings by the Chicago Humanities Tapes studio to chat with podcast host Alisa Rosenthal about the inner workings of comedy writing for cartoons, plus graphic memoirist James Spooner with artist Damon Locks live from the Ramova Theatre on books "Black Punk Now" and "The High Desert." SHOW NOTES Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity in the second program   PHOTO: Alisa Rosenthal and Asher Perlman chat via Zoom Asher Perlman, Well, This is Me Asher Perlman office hours information via Patreon   PHOTO: James Spooner and Damon Locks James Spooner, Black Punk Now James Spooner, The High Desert damonlocks.black   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

This one's for the math nerds, teachers, and forever students. Mathematician Eugenia Cheng, the Scientist in Residence at the Art Institute of Chicago, explores the surprising way that the logical quality of math is revolutionary in a time when humans can struggle to understand other perspectives in this conversation with Golden Apple award-winner Luke Albrecht from 2017. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Accessible math concepts PHOTO: Eugenia Cheng and Luke Albrecht on stage at the Fine Arts Building at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2017. eugeniacheng.com Eugenia Cheng, Beyond Infinity: An Expedition to the Outer Limits of Mathematics   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

King: A Life has just won the 2024 Pulitzer Prize in biography, and it was penned by Chicago's own Jonathan Eig. He sits down with the Interview Show's Mark Bazer for an engrossing conversation digging into never before heard information from Martin Luther King's FBI files as well as King's lasting impact on America. This program was recorded live at Chicago Humanities in May 2023. Purchase tickets to 5/21/24 Doris Kearns Goodwin with Jonathan Eig here. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Jonathan Eig and Mark Bazer at the Chop Shop at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2023. Jonathan Eig, King: A Life Washington Post 5/10/23, MLK's famous criticism of Malcolm X was a 'fraud,' author finds Playboy Magazine January 1965 Alex Haley Interviews Martin Luther King, Jr. Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Today's bonus episode brings us Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Tracy K. Smith in conversation with Parneshia Jones, the Director of Northwestern University Press. Smith, the 22nd Poet Laureate of the United States, shares of the times she looked to her ancestors for guidance - or rather, how they found her. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. Tracy K. Smith, To Free the Captives: A Plea for the American Soul   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

New York Times investigative reporter and author Max Fisher chats with The Verge editor at large David Pierce about a '50s era female Soviet scientist, her study of foxes, and what they have to do with social media today in our first ever mini episode: one great story from one great program. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. Max Fisher, The Chaos Machine   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn

Dr. Todd Boyd aka the Notorious Ph.D. is in the Chicago Humanities Tapes studio today, joining host Alisa Rosenthal for an exclusive conversation on how hip hop influenced everything in American pop culture from the '70s to today, including film, TV, fashion, and politics. SHOW NOTES: Snag tickets to Dr. Todd Boyd live in Chicago here. Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Alisa Rosenthal and Dr. Todd Boyd interview via Zoom. Dr. Todd Boyd, Rapper's Deluxe: How Hip Hop Made the World   WATCH: Sylvia sings "Pillow Talk" on Soul Train 1973 The Sugarhill Gang "Rapper's Delight" 1979 music video Lauryn Hill wins Album of the Year at the 1999 Grammys Three 6 Mafia wins Best Original Song at the 2006 Oscars Obama brushes shoulders 2008   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

This one's for the theater kids! Lin-Manuel Miranda comes to you live from Chicago's 3,563-seat Civic Opera House in this exhilarating conversation from our archives. He joins Chicago Tribune theater critic Chris Jones to chat Hamilton, songwriting, and all things Puerto Rico. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Light profanity. PHOTO: Lin-Manuel Miranda and Chris Jones at the Civic Opera House at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in 2016. Learn More About Lin-Manuel Miranda:  www.linmanuel.com   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Hear MSNBC's Rachel Maddow go deep into the rough and inspiring American past in a conversation with Northwestern University's Professor Kathleen Belew. Topics include Henry Ford, media literacy, and optimism for 2024. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Rachel Maddow and Kathleen Belew on stage at Northwestern University at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in October 2023. Rachel Maddow, Prequel: An American Fight Against Facism Rachel Maddow Presents: Ultra Kathleen Belew, Bring the War Home: The White Power Movement and Paramilitary America   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Acclaimed poet and author Sandra Cisneros graces our ears with a cacophony of creative inspiration, images of Mexico, and poems that glide in and out of Spanish. She chats with author and professor Daisy Hernández live at Northwestern University, in a conversation that will leave you running for your pen. Read the podcast transcript. PHOTO: Sandra Cisneros. Photo credit Alan Goldfarb. Sandra Cisneros, Woman Without Shame/Mujer sin vergüenza  Books by Daisy Hernández sandracisneros.com Macondo Writers Workshop   Subscribe: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this: www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn

Beloved actor Henry Winkler sits down with his friend and Barry co-star D'Arcy Carden as they chat Happy Days, school survival, fly fishing… and a little bit of shark jumping. Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity. PHOTO: Henry Winkler and D'Arcy Carden on stage at Francis W. Parker School at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in 2023. Henry Winkler, Being Henry: The Fonz… and Beyond   Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chicago-humanities-tapes/id1534976656 Donate now to support programs like this:  https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn

Welcome to your dream dinner party guest list, curated from two recent programs: Chef José Andrés interviewed by Mark Bittman, followed by Chef Anna Voloshyna interviewed by Chef Rick Bayless - in two uplifting chats on beans, borscht, and the unifying power of food. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Light profanity   Photo: José Andrés and Mark Bittman at the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in October 2023. José Andrés, The World Central Kitchen Cookbook Mark Bittman, The Best American Food Writing 2023 World Central Kitchen   Photo: Anna Voloshyna and Rick Bayless at the Newberry Library at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival in October 2023. Anna Voloshyna, BUDMO! Recipes from a Ukrainian Kitchen Rick Bayless cookbooks annavoloshyna.com (sign up for her mailing list for her foolproof khachapuri recipe) Aneyla Restaurant, Chicago Humanitarian aid to Ukraine: International Aid Legion Zeilen Van Vrijheid   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

We're giving you a well-rounded comedy education today with talks from two famous/infamous American film directors: Harold Ramis on the AFI 100 Funniest American Movies and John Waters on a career from trashy b-movies to Criterion approved trashy b-movies. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Language, LANGUAGE   Watch Harold Ramis' full program here. AFI's 100 Years… 100 Laughs Photo: Harold Ramis at the Chicago Humanities "Laughter" Festival in 2009 Photo: Harold Ramis, Joe Flaherty, Brian Doyle Murray, John Belushi and Gilda Radner in 1974, via NYPL Digital Collections   Watch John Waters' full program here. John Waters, Liarmouth: A Feelbad Romance Photo: John Waters portrait by Greg Gorman Photo: Divine and John Waters in 1981, by Roxanne Lowit

We have three tales of intrigue from the dark depths of the Chicago Humanities annals, featuring selections from YouTube's Caitlin Doughty of "Ask a Mortician" about if cats will eat your eyeballs when you die, New School faculty member and author Kristen J. Sollée from her lecture "Witches, Sluts, Feminists," and a section of a short ghost story by Chicago author Amy Giacalone from the compendium "Ghostly," compiled by author Audrey Niffenegger. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity, discussion of taboo topics Photo: Caitlin Doughty, Kristen J. Sollée, and Amy Giacalone   Watch Caitlin Doughty and Mark Bazer's whole program here Caitlin Doughty, Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? and Other Questions About Dead Bodies @AskAMortician YouTube channel Watch Kristen J. Sollée's whole program here Photo: Victoria Woodhull "Mrs. Satan" Kristen Sollée, Witches, Sluts, Feminists: Conjuring the Sex Positive    Watch the entire Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark: Audrey Niffenegger program featuring Amy Giacalone here Audrey Niffenegger, Ghostly Amy Giacalone website   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn

Actor, environmentalist, and all around mensch Ed Begley Jr. is in the house! We have a Chicago Humanities Tapes first, with our man of the hour joining podcast host Alisa Rosenthal in studio for an exclusive chat about his new memoir To the Temple of Tranquility… and Step On It! Topics include '70s-era electric cars, his friendship with Tom Waits, and the best vegetarian soups. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. Photo: Ed Begley Jr. and Alisa Rosenthal chat over Zoom. Ed Begley Jr., To the Temple of Tranquility… and Step On It!   Donate now to support programs like this:  https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn

Today's episode features a first: two programs from the same speaker at different moments in history - Patti Smith: as interviewed by Jessica Hopper in 2019, and back again in 2022, telling stories and singing live with guitar accompaniment from her son Jackson. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversations from 2019 here and from 2022 here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Light profanity. Photo: Patti Smith at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival at the Symphony Center. Photo: Patti Smith at the Music Box Theatre with a photo of Maryam Mirzakhani. Photo: Patti Smith at the Music Box Theatre with a photo of a porcelain bird. Patti Smith, Year of the Monkey Patti Smith, A Book of Days Jessica Hopper, The First Collection of Criticism By A Living Female Rock Critic   Episode photo by Steven Sebring   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Today's episode features two programs from multi-talented Black women on how to capture what it is to be human in two different art forms. We'll hear from best selling author, voting rights advocate, and history making Stacey Abrams in conversation with CNN's Jake Tapper on her latest thriller novel Rogue Justice, followed by the inspiring Oscar winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter as she looks back on her career as depicted in Art of Ruth E. Carter: Costuming Black History and the Afrofuture, from Do the Right Thing to Black Panther. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation of Stacey Abrams with Jake Tapper here.  Read the podcast transcript. Photo: Stacey Abrams at the Vic Theatre and Ruth E. Carter at the Music Box Theatre as part of the Chicago Humanities 2023 Spring Festival. Rogue Justice: a Thriller, Stacey Abrams All the Demons are Here: a Thriller, Jake Tapper Art of Ruth E. Carter: Costuming Black History and the Afrofuture, from Do the Right Thing to Black Panther, Ruth E. Carter   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/   Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Join legendary singer/songwriter Joan Baez at Chicago's historic Old Town School of Folk Music for an intimate chat on music, art, activism, and the kind of insider musician stories you can only get from the '60s folk revival scene icon. Interviewed live on stage by Justin Richmond of the music podcast Broken Record. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity PHOTO: Joan Baez author photo PHOTO: A page of upside down drawings from Joan Baez's book Am I Pretty When I Fly? Joan Baez, Am I Pretty When I Fly?: An Album of Upside Down Drawings Joan Baez I Am a Noise trailer Joan Baez, "Diamonds and Rust", "A Song for David", "Sweet Sir Galahad"   Tina Turner, "Steel Claw" live Bill Lee Harry Belafonte, "Day O (Banana Boat Song)" The Kingston Trio "Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Round" Albert Grossman Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Bayard Rustin  Ira Sandperl Justin Jones, The People's Plaza   Joan Baez's "What can I do?" recommended organizations Facebook post   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Happy Pride Month! YouTube star and transgender activist Gigi Gorgeous chats with her bff Gottmik, the drag performer, makeup artist, and first transgender male to compete on RuPaul's Drag Race, about friendship, sex, and all things trans. Actor and Miss Gay USofA pageant winner Aurora Sexton interviews the two icons with thoughtful humor and plenty of tea. SHOW NOTES: Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity, consensual deadnaming and discussion of hate crimes. Get into it! PHOTO: Gigi Gorgeous, Aurora Sexton, and Gottmik at the Chop Shop at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2023. PHOTO: Gottmik and Gigi Gorgeous at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival post-event book signing and photo op at the Chop Shop in 2023. Gigi Gorgeous & Gottmik, The T Guide: Our Trans Experiences and a Celebration of Gender Expression―Man, Woman, Nonbinary, and Beyond Learn more about the many trans/queer icons that were name dropped: Courtney Act, Laith Ashley, David Bowie, Lina Bradford, Candis Cayne, Sasha Colby, Divine, Jazz Jennings, Hayley Kiyoko, Adam Lambert, Amanda Lepore, Sarah McBride, Kim Petras, Alok Vaid-Menon, John Waters   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Join actress Selma Blair (Legally Blonde, Cruel Intentions) and filmmaker Rachel Fleit (Bama Rush) for an inspiring and honest conversation about living with multiple sclerosis, crafting your story into a writing, and those funny and defining moments from childhood such as Blair's "Parmesan Cheese Incident." SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Language, references to self-harm and sexual assault, alcoholism, and a very good dog on stage. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988 lifeline.org.   Photo: Selma Blair and her security dog work the book signing and photo op line after her event at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival at the Field Museum in 2022. Photo: Rachel Fleit, Selma Blair, and her security dog on stage at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival at the Field Museum in 2022.    Selma Blair, Mean Baby: A Memoir of Growing Up Watch Introducing, Selma Blair   Keah Brown, The Pretty One: On Life, Pop Culture, Disability, and Other Reasons to Fall in Love with Me   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn

Learn cooking tips and fresh insight from James Beard Award-winning chef and Top Chef judge and contestant Kwame Onwuachi, interviewed by Chicago comedians Dario Durham and Sara Faddah of the podcast 77 Flavors of Chicago. Topics also include the history of collard greens, what his mom makes for him when he's home, and the coolest person he's ever cooked for. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Profanity.   Photo: Dario Durham, Sara Faddah, and Kwame Onwuachi at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2022. Photo: Kwame Onwuachi at the Chicago Humanities Spring Festival in 2022.   My America: Recipes From a Young Black Chef (2022) Notes From a Young Black Chef: A Memoir (2019) Jerk chicken recipe Nail polish line 77 Flavors of Chicago podcast   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn  

Academy Award winning actress Jessica Lange joins Chicago theater critic Chris Jones for a lovely and inspiring chat about her stunning black and white street photography, acting in the golden age of '70s cinema, and that time she was roommates with Grace Jones. SHOW NOTES: Watch the full conversation here. Read the podcast transcript. CW: Gentle profanity (she's a New Yorker) Learn more: Jessica Lange, Dérive   Photo: Jessica Lange at the Chicago Humanities Fall Festival  Photo: Jessica Lange, cover image Dérive Photo: Jessica Lange, Hudson River Pier from Dérive Photo: Jessica Lange, vow renewal from Dérive Photo: Henri Cartier-Bresson, Behind the Gare St Lazare (1932) Photo: Sam Shepard and Jessica Lange (1984)   Donate now to support programs like this: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/donate/ Explore upcoming events: https://www.chicagohumanities.org/ Instagram • TikTok • Twitter • Facebook • LinkedIn