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.

Comedian Steven Wright reflects on more than 40 years of deadpan standup comedy. Also, we look at the lasting legacy of D'Angelo's masterpiece, "Voodoo." And biographer Patrick McGilligan takes us behind the curtain of Mel Brooks's debut film, "The Producers."

The "Czar of Noir" Eddie Muller joins us for a hard-boiled conversation about film noir. Also, Rumaan Alam on his suspenseful and resonant novel, "Leave the World Behind." And author Claire McNear on the smartest and most popular game show of all time -- "Jeopardy!"

Director Edgar Wright on his delightful documentary, "The Sparks Brothers." Also, writer Lauren Hough reflects on her various identities including her youth in the Children of God cult. And journalist Jason Schreier exposes the volatility of the video game industry.

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.

Legendary comedian/writer/actor John Cleese tells us how we can tap into our creativity. And Talking Heads' drummer Chris Frantz talks about his life in music. Also, Rebecca Roanhorse on her epic fantasy novel, "Black Sun."

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."

Wisconsin comedian Gareth Reynolds on his debut standup album. Also, actress and writer Felicia Day tells us why we should embrace our weird. And author Seth Kaufman joins us for a Rock and RollThought Experiment about the concept album.

Matt Berninger of The National talks about his debut solo album, "Serpentine Prison." Also, film critic Adam Nayman on Paul Thomas Anderson's masterful movies. And author Miles Harvey on the most infamous con man you've never heard of -- James Strang.

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."