The former “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” writer Jen Spyra talks about her debut short-story collection. Also, Sandi Tan on her acclaimed documentary, “Shirkers,” and her latest novel, “Lurkers.” And director David Prior joins us to discuss the challenges he faced making his eerie horror film, "The Empty Man."

Author Glenn Frankel on the groundbreaking movie, "Midnight Cowboy." Also, author and filmmaker Nancy Jo Sales reveals the darker side of dating apps. Plus comedian Tom Scharpling on his touching memoir and a look at the indie film maestro Jim Jarmusch.

Comedian Paula Poundstone on how she coped with the COVID pandemic and why she loves visiting Wisconsin. Also, author Ron Friedman shares the secret to success – reverse engineering. And Deadpool creator Fabian Nicieza pivots from comic books to fiction with his murder mystery, “Suburban Dicks.”

Jean Hanff Korelitz on her propulsive page-turner, "The Plot." Also, comedian Maggie Maye talks about her journey from Texas to Los Angeles. And the one and only Robert McKee explains why we're seeing more complicated characters on page, on stage and on screen.

Shawn Cosby talks about his provocative and propulsive crime novel, “Razorblade Tears.” Also, author Tananarive Due revisits her debut horror novel, “The Between.” And we explore the work of filmmakers Gordon Parks and Melvin Van Peebles.

Actor Andrew McCarthy on being a member of the “Brat Pack.” Also, Zakiya Dalila Harris talks about her captivating debut novel, “The Other Black Girl.” And author Tori Telfer gives us the lowdown on con women.

Showrunner Patrick Somerville on the HBO pandemic saga, 'Station Eleven.' Also, 'Fargo' creator Noah Hawley on his novel, 'Anthem.' And author Heidi Greco on the staying power of the movie, 'Harold and Maude.'

Comedian Laurie Kilmartin joins us to talk about her latest album, “Corset.” Also, best-selling author Jami Attenberg pivots from fiction to non-fiction with her intimate memoir. And author Peter Mills on the Monkees’ box-office flop, “Head,” which could be their greatest achievement.

Director Joshua Rofé on the suspenseful Hulu docuseries, “Sasquatch.” Also, legendary musician Richard Thompson shares memories that shaped his career. And the award-winning, acclaimed novelist Rachel Kushner talks about her essay collection, "The Hard Crowd."

Documentary filmmaker Erin Lee Carr reflects on the loss of her father, the celebrated journalist David Carr. And Onalaska’s own Mark Proksch on his accidental path to stardom. Also, guitarist and composer Steve Tibbetts on how exploring the world influences his music.