Working

Why is it that we can tell someone “I’m totally fine!” and they instantly know we’re not? Gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, and other subtle nonverbal cues play a huge role in how we connect with one another. In this episode, host Charles Duhigg explores how we communicate without words, including a deep dive into the visual and tonal cues embedded in one of the biggest sitcoms of all time, The Big Bang Theory. He talks with Dr. Dustin York, a professor at Maryville University who studies nonverbal communication and worked in public relations for Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign. He also sits down with Dave Goetsch, a co-executive producer and longtime writer for The Big Bang Theory, and journalist Jessica Radloff, who wrote an exhaustive book about the show. This Slate miniseries dives into the art and science of meaningful conversations, inspired byDuhigg’s bestselling book, Supercommunicators. Supercommunicators was produced by Sophie Summergrad and Derek John, who also did the sound design. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are some people able to talk with just about anyone—about almost anything? One answer may lie in the questions we ask—and how deeply we ask them. Stick with us here…In this episode, host Charles Duhigg examines why deep questions are so powerful and how to ask them in everyday life.He talks to Nick Epley, psychology professor at the University of Chicago and lifelong researcher of deep questions. And we catch up with Mandy Len Catron, 10 years after she wrote the viral New York Times article “The 36 Questions That Lead to Love.”This Slate miniseries dives into the art and science of meaningful conversations, inspired by Duhigg’s bestselling book, Supercommunicators. Supercommunicators was produced by Derek John and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob. Joel Meyer is our supervising producer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, hosts June Thomas, Isaac Butler, and Ronald Young Jr. reflect on the best tips, tools, and words of wisdom from the past four years of Working. They bid farewell to the show, to the listeners, and discuss the lessons that stuck with them and changed the way they work. They also save time at the end to reply to some heartwarming listener emails.  Past episodes that they mention include: How Choreographer Annie-B Parson Expresses Music Through Movement, Writer Oliver Burkeman on the Dangers of Obsessive Time Management, and How to Write Every Day and Stick to It.In recent years, Working has been hosted by June Thomas, Isaac Butler, Ronald Young Jr., Karen Han, Nate Chinen, Kristen Meinzer, TK Dutes, and Cameron Drews. Morgan Flannery was the founding producer of the most recent iteration of the show. Cameron Drews and Kevin Bendis have been the primary producers of both Working and Working Overtime. Please send comments, questions, tips about creative work, and feedback to [email protected], and thank you so much for listening!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this, the final episode of Working Overtime, hosts Ronald Young Jr. and June Thomas share some last bits of advice on how best to leave a job! Ronald has been let go, quit jobs, and switched gears in every possible way. June has moved across countries and allowed turning points in her life to be catalysts for moving on from certain work. Both of them share their experiences and offer some best practices for leaving on good terms and being prepared to leap into something new.Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to composer and bandleader Darcy James Argue, who fronts the 18-piece big band jazz group Secret Society. In the interview, Darcy talks about the thought processes that go into his compositions, like how his interest in mathematician Alan Turning inspired a track on the group’s most recent album Dynamic Maximum Tension. He also discusses the many hats he needs to wear, how he balances complexity and accessibility in his music, and how he makes the most of rehearsal time with such a big group. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Ronald Young Jr. talk about the challenges and discomforts of self-promotion. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Darcy explains how he decides how to assign solos in his big band music. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode of Working Overtime, hosts Ronald Young Jr. and June Thomas get into the weeds on in-between time and pivoting from one job to the next. June is at the tail end of the promotional tour of her book, while Ronald is gearing up for a new season of his podcast Weight For It. How do you take the final steps of wrapping up one project and be ready for another one? They share tips like prioritizing deadlines, taking on short-term anchor jobs, and ensuring you don’t give all your time to work that zaps your energy.If you liked this episode be sure to check out our previous episode on How “Anchor Jobs” Can Save Your Freelance LifeDo you have questions or advice of your own about the creative process? Reach out at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected].  Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's an off-week for Working Overtime, so we're presenting a special bonus episode from the Smart Money podcast! Smart Money features real-world advice to help people make better decisions about their money. In today's episode, a jazz saxophonist talks about navigating the financial ups and downs of a career in the arts.If you like this episode, and if you could use some smart financial guidance, then go ahead and follow NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast on your favorite podcast app. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Ronald Young Jr. talks to Mike Gauyo, a TV writer and creator whose credits include the beloved series Insecure and Ginny and Georgia. In the interview, Mike shares his process for thinking of new ideas for shows, refining those ideas over time, and pitching them to industry gatekeepers. He also talks about being from an immigrant family, initially studying medicine, and the events that prompted him to pivot to writing. After the interview, Ronald and co-host Isaac Butler discuss best practices for pitching a podcast, and Isaac refers to this episode of Working Overtime about pitching print stories to editors. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Mike talks about what it was like to join the writers’ room of Insecure as a fan of the show.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Dina Hashem, a stand-up comedian and writer for The Daily Show whose recent special is called Dark Little Whispers. In the interview, Dina discusses her reliance on inspiration rather than a formal writing process, her experiences in comedy roast battles, and the fact that her standards for good comedy keep getting higher. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas talk about why artists sometimes need to take jobs that aren’t a great fit but help propel them towards better opportunities. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Isaac asks Dina about her exciting new hobby: drumming.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host June Thomas speaks with authors Rachel Dodes and Lauren Mechling about their new novel, The Memo and their collaborative writing process. The pandemic took its toll on everyone, but for Mechling and Dodes, it became a time to collaborate via a Google Doc. They spewed ideas and paragraphs onto the same page, editing each other’s output in real time until they formulated their surrealist, comedic tale of friendship and career ambitions. Both authors extoll the benefits of collaborating and being less precious with their own words. Later, hosts Isaac Butler and Ronald Young Jr. join June for a frank discussion of working with time limitations, ‘pitching without bitching,’ and an update about Working itself.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Rachel and Lauren speak about their appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen, and Lauren breaks down the similarities between The Memo and her last novel, How Could She.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts Ronald Young Jr. and Isaac Butler delve into coping with emotional trauma and the challenge of returning to work afterward. Following a death in his family, Ronald grapples with his grief while feeling overwhelmed by the backlog of work. Isaac, having faced his own unexpected personal struggles, explains that part of the return process is accepting that you simply can’t get everything done at once. They share practical tips, such as playing video games to decompress and breaking down urgent tasks into bite-size pieces.Do you have questions or advice of your own about the creative process? Reach out at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected].  Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Ronald Young Jr. talks to John DeLore, a podcast editor and sound designer who’s been in the industry since its heyday. He’s produced hugely popular shows for companies like Gimlet and Stitcher, and now he runs his own production company, Starlight Diner Studio. In the interview, John breaks down his sound design process, shares tips for collaborating with clients, and explains how he keeps surviving despite the industry’s downturn. After the interview, Ronald and co-host Isaac Butler talk about the importance of defining what “good work” means to you. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, John discusses his favorite musical instruments and his feelings about Harry Styles.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Sam Green, a documentary filmmaker who has pioneered a new kind of performance called “live documentary,” which involves presenting ideas and images on-stage, accompanied by live music. In the interview, Sam explains why he started designing his films this way and why the temporary nature of these performances makes them so special. He also talks about researching and structuring his performances, learning to script and memorize his lines, and the joys of feeding off the audience’s energy.  After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss whether more people should try to remix artistic mediums. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Sam talks about how much he loves traveling around the country and the world presenting his work. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Justin Peck, a dancer and choreographer who helped create the hit Broadway show Illinoise, which is based on a classic album with a similar name by Sufjan Stevens. In the interview, Justin breaks down how he adapted Sufjan’s album into a narrative dance piece, with clear characters and storylines. He also talks about his process for feeling out dance moves with his body, teaching those moves to other dancers, and then tweaking them based on the strengths of the performers. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Ronald Young Jr. talk about the thrill of live performances and what it means to define success for a project. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Justin explains how the show varied in previous iterations before Broadway. Then he talks about his biggest dance influences. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to Francesca Zambello, artistic director of the Washington National Opera. In the interview, Francesca discusses the process of creating a brand new ending for Puccini’s unfinished final opera Turandot, from recruiting a composer and librettist to deciding on the visual language of the show. She also talks about her early career working overseas, the wide range of productions at the National Opera, and the kinds of shows that attract new opera fans. After the interview, June and co-host Ronald Young Jr. talk about the ethics of changing or updating an artist’s work after their death.  In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, June asks Francesca if there are any other operas that she’d like to update or re-frame. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Tracyanne Campbell, lead singer of the Scottish indie band Camera Obscura. In the interview, Tracyanne discusses the process of getting the band back together after a decade-long hiatus and the songwriting work that went into their new album Look to the East, Look to the West. She also talks about the humor and references in her lyrics, the imposter syndrome that won’t go away, and her mission to write a certain kind of love song. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas talk more about imposter syndrome. They also discuss why some UK artists sing using American accents (as referenced in a Slate piece from 2012. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Isaac asks Tracyanne about a certain word that’s often used to describe Camera Obscura: twee. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Ronald Young Jr. talks to Anna Sale, host of the podcast Death, Sex & Money, which recently joined Slate after a brief hiatus. In the interview, Anna explains her process for conducting the powerful and vulnerable interviews that her podcast is known for. She also talks about her early career as a politics reporter, her tips for making sure interview subjects feel respected, and how a Death, Sex & Money episode is born. After the interview, Ronald and co-host June Thomas discuss something Ronald calls “the question behind the question” in interviews and in everyday conversations. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Anna shares how her relationship with money (and talking about it) has changed since she started the podcast. She also talks about one of her favorite interviewers, Terry Gross. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week’s episode of Working Overtime, hosts Ronald Young Jr. and Isaac Butler examine a listener’s question about tackling the stickiest aspects of collaborating on a creative project. Both hosts have had their fair share of nightmare scenarios, but they agree that some of the best practices for collaborating involve having frank conversations before a project begins. Do you have questions or advice of your own about the creative process? Reach out at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected]. Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Anthony McGill, principal clarinetist for the New York Philharmonic. In the interview, Anthony describes his weekly routine, which includes practicing lots of different pieces at any given time, rehearsing, and playing multiple shows per week. He also talks about his meditation practice, his ability to play and be swept away by the music at the same time, and his Grammy-nominated album American Stories. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Ronald Young Jr. discuss the different preparation timelines of musicians and actors. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Anthony talks about meeting some of his musical heroes. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest-host Kristen Meinzer talks to Joshua Jay, a world-class magician, storyteller, and author of multiple books about the history and craft of magic. In the interview, Joshua explains how he’s able to conceive of, design, and execute original tricks. He also talks about the role of storytelling in his work, and he explains how certain narrative structures can make for better performances. After the interview, Kristen and co-host June Thomas talk about Joshua’s high standards for his work and why they’re sometimes reluctant to “kill their darlings.”In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Joshua describes different varieties of magic. He also talks about the cliche ways magicians are often portrayed in movies.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to Courtney Gilbert, curator of the Sun Valley Museum of Art in Ketchum, Idaho. In the interview, Courtney digs into the process of curating a “non-collecting” museum, which means they start from scratch with each exhibition, and they don’t keep a large inventory of pieces. She also explains how she comes up with ideas for exhibitions, what a good exhibition should do, and how she serves her specific community. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler talk about the importance of creating guidelines and best-practices for their work. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Courtney discusses her education and career journey.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Ronald Young Jr. talks to Bekah Brunstetter, a TV writer and playwright whose most recent project is the new Broadway musical version of The Notebook. In the interview, Bekah discusses her early career journey, when she was juggling a corporate job with her playwriting passion. She also talks about breaking into TV writing and working on the hit drama This is Us. And finally, she digs into her work on The Notebook and explains what it was like to adapt the classic rom-com. After the interview, Ronald and co-host June Thomas talk about receiving feedback, establishing routines, and choosing the correct creative tools for your project. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Bekah shares the plot of the first play she ever wrote. Then she and Ronald talk about their experiences growing up in religious households and the impact it had on their cultural diets.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Ronald Young Jr. talks to chef and TV personality Carla Hall. In the interview, Carla talks about leaving her first career as an accountant to explore modeling and then cooking. Then she discusses her pivot to TV, her commitment to being herself on screen, and her latest project Chasing Flavor, which is now available to stream on Max.  After the interview, Ronald and co-host Isaac Butler talk about big career pivots, big personalities, and their goal as extroverts to make space for other peopleIn the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Carla shares some of her favorite dishes and talks about what it was like to be a model in Paris. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week’s episode of Working Overtime, the hosts June Thomas and Isaac Butler dissect The Yang Slinger author Jeff Pearlman’s recent prickly advice to young professionals. Then, June and Isaac expound on their experiences of dishing out and seeking advice from others. They dig into the right and wrong ways to reach out to people in creative fields and share tips like having a sense of humility, always being specific, and never feeling discouraged from a lack of responses.  Do you have questions or advice of your own about the creative process? Reach out at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected].  Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to children’s book author and illustrator Mika Song, whose work includes the Norma and Belly series about two squirrels with big appetites. In the interview, Mika explains how she collects ideas just by moving around her neighborhood and jotting down notes and drawings. She also talks about her materials, her audience, and her experiences giving book presentations to her young readers. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler discuss how to find inspiration in the everyday. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Mika shares some of her current favorite children’s books.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to the very in-demand sound designer Johnnie Burn, who has worked on multiple great and sonically rich films like Nope, Poor Things, and the dark historical drama The Zone of Interest, which tells the story of a Nazi commandant and his family who live right outside the walls of Auschwitz. In the interview, Johnnie discusses the crucial role that audio plays in the film and his close attention to historical accuracy. He also discusses the difference between his theatrical mix and a mix he creates for smaller devices, like phones and ipads. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss the role of sound in their own work.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Johnnie shares a strange discovery he made while tweaking the audio levels for The Zone of Interest. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to Jason Isaacs, an actor known for roles like Lucien Malfoy in the Harry Potter film series and Georgy Zhukov in The Death of Stalin. In the interview, Jason discusses the extensive research that went into his portrayal of Cary Grant in the Britbox series Archie, including the work of capturing Grant’s accent, which changed over time. He also talks about his impressively long IMDB page and his life-changing experience working on the play Angels in America. After the interview, June and co-host Ronald Young Jr. talk about accent work and thorough research. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jason talks more about Cary Grant’s career. Then June asks Jason if he ever borrows clothing and style choices from his characters. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest-host Ronald Young Jr. talks to Wendy MacNaughton, an artist whose work can be found in many places, including the bestselling cookbook Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat. In the interview, Wendy discusses her unique artistic style, which stems from her practice of interacting closely with her subjects. She also talks about her educational project DrawTogether and its sister project DrawTogether Strangers, which encourages people to draw portraits of complete strangers in public places around the U.S. After the interview, Ronald and co-host June Thomas discuss the courage it takes to find and pursue a passion. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Wendy shares techniques for talking to strangers. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.You can learn more about Wendy’s work at her website, wendymacnaughton.com, and you can learn more about the DrawTogether Grown-Ups Table at club.drawtogether.studio.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, working hosts June Thomas and Isaac Butler share their goals for the year ahead and devise strategies to help each other accomplish them. They also reflect on their resolutions from last year and share how well they stuck to them. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we revisit host Isaac Butler's conversation with Liz Stokes and Jon Pearce, who make up half of the New Zealand indie rock band The Beths. In the interview, Liz and Jon walk through their songwriting process step-by-step, from initial riffs and lyrics to their complex vocal harmonies and guitar solos. They also explain why the bridge is often the hardest part of a song to write.After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss why songwriting sometimes feels like magic.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Isaac’s daughter asks Liz and Jon some questions of her own!Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler is joined by actor, writer, director Erik Jensen for a frank conversation about his recent cancer diagnosis and the challenges artists face holding on to health-care coverage, especially in the age of streaming. They go on to discuss Jensen’s continued creative activity, including a new film project he co-directed with his wife and acted in with his daughter. Later, Jensen explains some of the intricacies of the recent writers’ and actors’ strikes.After the interview, co-host June Thomas joins Isaac to talk about the value of being candid about the financial realities of being a freelance artist. They also dive into creative collaborations and the importance of communicating clearly with the people you work with.Learn more about Erik Jensen’s story and make a donation here.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest-host Keisha “TK” Dutes talks to graphic designer, writer, and educator Gail Anderson, who specializes in the art of typography. In the interview, Gail talks about falling in love with printed lettering and her decision to become a designer in the first place. Then she discusses some of her specific work, including campaign buttons and posters, playbills for Broadway, and her Emancipation Proclamation U.S. postage stamp. After the interview, TK and co-host June Thomas talk about collecting inspiration from the outside world. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Gail discusses her position on the Citizen Stamp Advisory Committee, which helps to select and approve official postage stamps.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week’s episode of Working Overtime, hosts Nate Chinen and Isaac Butler are joined by Jaime Green, author of The Possibility of Life, for a discussion on “anchor jobs,” or gigs that can provide stability through the financial uncertainty of freelance work. All three have endured feast or famine periods and found that certain side jobs can create a protective scaffolding to help get through slower periods of work. The tricky part is not letting an anchor job turn into something that consumes all your creative energy and time.Do you have a question about creativity? Reach out at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected].  Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosts: Nate Chinen and Isaac Butler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to casting director and producer Logan Clark, whose credits include reality TV series like American Idol, The Masked Singer, and the excellent HBO reality series Legendary. In the interview, Logan explains how and why he got into reality show casting and what the job entails. Then he talks about the casting process for Legendary and the importance of featuring members of underrepresented groups on reality TV. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler discuss both representation and exploitation in reality TV.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Logan talks about some of his very favorite reality TV shows. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Kristoffer Borgli, the writer and director (and editor!) behind the new movie Dream Scenario, starring Nicolas Cage. In the interview, Kristoffer discusses the writing and revision process for Dream Scenario and explains how he tweaked the main character once Cage signed on. He also talks about why he shoots on film, why he likes to both direct and edit his work, and how he’s able to maintain good vibes on set. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Cameron Drews discuss the importance of flexibility in creative work. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Kristoffer talks about getting feedback from trusted friends. Then he explains why he invited Taiwanese bodybuilder and performance artist Frank Yang to crash at his house for a while. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest-host Kristen Meinzer talks to Nikki Watson, a home staging expert who founded The Design Quad, one of the biggest home staging companies in the country. In the interview, Nikki explains what a home stager does and how it’s different from the work of an interior designer. She also discusses trends in the industry, like the “monochromatic” color palettes, and her ability to evoke emotions with her staging. After the interview, Kristen and co-host Isaac Butler talk more about trends and how to think about them in your work. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Nikki shares her biggest home staging pet peeves. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Raja Feather Kelly, a choreographer and director who works both on Broadway and with his dance-theatre-media company, The Feath3r Theory. In the interview, Raja discusses the useful systems and strategies he’s developed with his collaborators at The Feath3r Theory and how he’s able to apply some of that wisdom to his work on Broadway. He also shares the process behind his upcoming show, The Absolute Future of the Multiverse of How to Cover the Sun with Mud. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss the “big emotions” that drive their work. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Raja discusses his long-time obsession with Andy Warhol.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest-host Kristen Meinzer talks to Margalit Fox, a longtime writer of obituaries for the New York Times and now a full-time writer of nonfiction books, like The Confidence Men. In the interview, Margalit discusses the delicate art of documenting notable deaths, including the practice of pre-writing and continually updating the obituaries of living people. She also explains how her work as an obituary writer has influenced her work as a nonfiction author. After the interview, Kristen and co-host June Thomas talk about the terrifying work of cold-calling sources. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Margalit discusses why women and people of color have been underrepresented in the obituary section. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Patrick Page, a broadway performer whose current one-man show All the Devils Are Here digs into the complex psyches of multiple Shakespeare villains. In the interview, Patrick discusses his passion for playing Shakespeare roles, his process for researching characters, and the importance of being a good listener as an actor. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas talk about some specific acting exercises. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Patrick shares his experiences with vocal training. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews and Kevin Bendis.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to Suk Pannu, creator and writer of Mrs. Sidhu Investigates, a British radio drama that became a TV series that’s now available on Acorn TV. In the interview, Suk explains why he wanted to tell the story of a middle-aged Indian auntie who becomes an amateur sleuth. He also talks about the different creative demands of radio and TV and the slightly surrealist nature of amateur sleuth mystery stories. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler discuss why it’s important to hold onto old ideas that still have potential. BBC radio drama resource: https://www.bbc.co.uk/writersroom/resources/tips-and-advice/writing-radio-drama/In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Suk shares some of his favorite mystery TV shows. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to writer and podcaster Brad Dowdy, who makes his living as a pen and stationary enthusiast. In the interview, Brad explains how he was able to quit his full-time job in I.T. and turn his passion into a career. He also breaks down the many facets of his job, from his “Pen Addict” blog and podcast to his newsletter and Twitch streams. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler discuss what makes a great pen and how to schedule your days as a freelancer. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Brad explains what “pen shows” are all about. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NOTE: This interview was recorded before the SAG-AFTRA strike.This week, host Isaac Butler talks to Marian Macgowan, a long-time film and TV producer who recently oversaw production on the Hulu series The Great. In the interview, Marian describes the many varieties of executive producer, from the ones who do a lot of creative work to the ones who “just sit there in the credits.” She also talks about her experience working on The Great, which Isaac calls “the best show on television.”After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss the best ways to provide feedback to collaborators. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Marian talks about The Great’s elaborate set designs.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest-host Nate Chinen talks to Kalia Vandever, a trombonist and bandleader who recently performed alongside Harry Styles in the U.S. and Europe during his “Love on Tour” tour. In the interview, Kalia explains how she got used to performing in front of gigantic, loud, high-energy crowds. She also shares how her experience touring with Harry has informed her solo work. After the interview, Nate and co-host June Thomas talk about the challenges and learning opportunities that come from moving to a larger stage–literally or figuratively.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Kalia discusses some of her favorite horn sections in popular music.  Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas is joined by Latin American writer Carlos Fonseca, the author of multiple critically acclaimed novels, as well as the much-lauded, Spanish-English Megan McDowell. Fonseca and McDowell discuss their continuous working relationship, the creative process of translation itself, and their latest collaboration with the book Austral. After the interview June is joined by co-host Nate Chinen, for a discussion of the ebb and flow process between complexity and clarity that can exist within a collaborative project.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, June asks Fonseca about why translation is important and the background of how the non-textual elements of his book, were translated.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week’s episode of Working, host Isaac Butler interviews author Daniel Hornsby on his new novel Sucker and his creative process. The author of Via Negativa, Hornsby’s latest tale was spun out of jokes among friends about Elizabeth Holmes being a vampire and Martin Shkreli’s failed foray as punk-rock label owner, for a deeply sardonic salad of tech world billionaires, and campy horror. Butler is also joined by co-host Nate Chinen, to discuss Hornsby’s inspired ways of generating ideas from physically writing drafts in the bar, to exploring the rules of genres.Do you have a question about creative work? Leave a message at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected].  Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, guest-host Nate Chinen talks to Miguel Cervantes, the actor currently playing Alexander Hamilton on Broadway. In the interview, Miguel explains why he’s not trying to mimic or channel the original performances by Lin-Manuel Miranda. He also shares how a personal tragedy changed his life and continues to impact his art. After the interview, Nate and co-host June Thomas talk about repetition and ritual as tools for creative work. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Miguel tells the story of an embarrassing mishap on stage. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week’s episode of Working Overtime, hosts June Thomas and Isaac Butler dive into all the ways creatives should relax and vacation. Whether it’s splashing in the pool, or breezing through some books, a few days of R&R can be just what is needed to replenish the creative juices. The hosts also explore the many conversations among friends and family that can sometimes jostle loose a new creative idea and recharge your relationships.Do you have a question about creative work? Leave a message at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected].  Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to writer Madeleine George, who recently adapted the classic Alison Bechdel comic Dykes to Watch Out For into an audio drama that stars Jane Lynch, Carrie Brownstein, Roberta Colindrez, and Roxane Gay. In the interview, Madeleine discusses the challenges of turning a piece of visual art into an audio-only narrative. She also talks about the 1980’s setting of the story and the continued relevance of the characters’ personal and political lives. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler explain how to set rules for your creative projects. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Madeleine talks about her work on the Hulu series Only Murders in the Building. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to actor Arian Moayed, who played Stewy on the hit HBO series Succession and more recently played Torvald Helmer in a production of A Doll’s House on Broadway. In the interview, Arian talks about his early career in theater and the valuable acting techniques that he learned in college. He also discusses his experiences playing unlikeable characters, his pivot from stage to screen, and the overwhelming amount of feedback that actors receive. [NOTE: This interview was recorded before the SAG-AFTRA Union began its strike.] After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss the benefits and downsides of high-intensity creative work.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Arian explains how he got the hang of Succession’s unique tone. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get an ad-free experience across the network and exclusive content on many shows—you’ll also be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week’s episode of Working Overtime, hosts June Thomas and Isaac Butler are joined by Lincoln Michel author of The Body Scout, for a deep dive into the legacy of creative work. Books may last forever, but vast amounts of work within the digital realm end up being ephemeral. It can be easy to worry about how a Tweet may be perceived in the future, but even major authors of their day can be lost to the annals of time.Do you have a question about creative work? Leave a message at (304) 933-9675 or email us at [email protected].  Podcast production by Kevin Bendis and Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.