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Charles Yu tackles racism through the lens of a fictional cop show in his novel, "Interior Chinatown." Also, musician/author Will Birch gives us the lowdown on one of England's greatest songwriters, Nick Lowe. And the doctor will see you now -- Jonathan Katz on the return of his professional therapist character, Dr. Katz

Comedian and actress Cristela Alonzo on her trailblazing career as a Latina celebrity. Also, “Radiolab’s” Latif Nasser joins us to talk about his Netflix series, “Connected." And Wisconsin writer Melissa Faliveno on her essay collection, "Tomboyland."

Comedian Chris Gethard shares how failure can lead you to happiness. Plus, rapper Shad Kabango on his Peabody award-winning Netflix docu-series, “Hip-Hop Evolution.” And, media professor Janet Murray on the boundless frontier of digital narratives.

"Seinfeld" writer Peter Mehlman takes on oversensitivity in his novel, "#MeAsWell." Also, producer and musician Warren Zanes talks about his Tom Waits tribute album, "Come On Up To The House: Women Sing Waits." And cultural commentator Lauren Michele Jackson on blackness in memes and the appropriation of black culture.

Public radio host John Moe on "The Hilarious World of Depression." Author Donna Gaines tells us why the iconic punk rock band the Ramones matter. And Sam Wasson on his book, "Improv Nation: How We Made a Great American Art."

Fasten your seat belts and put your tray tables in the upright position. Jim Abrahams joins us to talk about one of the most influential comedy movies of all time, "Airplane!" Also, Wisconsin filmmaker Chris Smith shares the inside story of the Fyre Festival and we learn how Howard Hughes exploited women to make his mark in Hollywood.

Author Mike Sacks on the art of writing comedy. Also, TV critics Matt Zoller Seitz and Alan Sepinwall reflect on the prestige TV series, "Mad Men." And music blogger Joshua Farber tells us why he loves cover versions.

Musician Marc Ribot reflects on his "Songs of Resistance" album. Cult movie director John Waters introduces us to some of his visual art. Comedian Maeve Higgins shares her thoughts on being an extraordinary Irish immigrant.

Today, Alan Zweibel talks about a lifetime in comedy from his days at "Saturday Night Live" to co-creating the groundbreaking TV show, “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show.” Also, comedy writer Bess Kalb channels the inspirational voice of her Grandma Bobby Bell in her debut book. And biographer Erin Osmon introduces us to the Midwestern singer/songwriter Jason Molina.

Comedian John Hodgman upgrades his status with his latest memoir. Also, biographer Sheila Weller on the life and career of feminist icon, Carrie Fisher. And director Midge Costin on her documentary, “Making Waves: The Art of Cinematic Sound.”