Author T.C. Boyle gives voice to the chimps in his novel, “Talk to Me.” Also, U.S. poet laureate Joy Harjo joins us to shed a light on her process. And the co-founder of the Lounge Lizards, John Lurie, tells us how he did things his way in downtown New York during the 1980s.

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.”

Director Rose Glass on her critically-acclaimed debut film, "Saint Maud." Also, Amy Gentry on her propulsive crime novel, "Bad Habits." And comedian Mike Drucker tells us why he wrote a book about the landmark video game, "Silent Hill 2."

Renaissance man Ishmael Reed reflects on his prolific career. Also, crime maestro Megan Abbott gets to the "pointe" about her novel, "The Turnout," which is set in the competitive world of ballet. And author/artist Kristen Radtke on the deep impacts of loneliness in America.

The acclaimed author George Saunders shares some life lessons from 19 th -century Russian writers like Chekhov and Tolstoy. We'll also meet the creators of the documentary, "The Last Blockbuster." And Twitter star Brandy Jensen talks about turning her life mistakes into an advice column.

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.

Mateo Askaripour on his debut novel, "Black Buck," about a Black salesman on a mission. Also, the surreal comedy troupe The Firesign Theatre talk about their first record in 35 years. And acclaimed British novelist Martin Amis on his autobiographical novel, "Inside Story."

Author Melissa Maerz takes us behind the scenes of Richard Linklater's cult film, “Dazed and Confused.” Also, Eels frontman Mark Oliver Everett dishes about the band’s album, “Earth to Dora.” And the renowned sportscaster Jim Gray talks about his most memorable interviews.

Comedian Trevor Moore on the journey from sketch comedy to his very own Comedy Central talk show. Also, writer Brian Broome shares his memories of growing up as a gay Black man in Ohio. And Steven Hall on his mind-bending novel, “Maxwell’s Demon.”

Wisconsin singer/songwriter Zola Jesus talks about finding new ways for musicians to make a living. Author David Mikics on one of the greatest filmmakers ever, Stanley Kubrick. And "New Yorker" cover artist Adrian Tomine opens up about his graphic memoir.