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We talk with comedy writer Simon Rich about his new collection of short stories, “Hits and Misses.” Plus, musician Sam Phillips on her cinematic album, “The World On Sticks,” and Tedium’s Ernie Smith on the history of hidden tracks on albums.Also, writer and journalist C. Brian Smith traces the sordid saga of road rage.

Comedian Eric Andre on his debut Netflix special, "Legalize Everything." Also, Chuck Wendig on his dystopian novel, "Wanderers," in the wake of a pandemic. Ottessa Moshfegh talks about her latest novel, "Death in Her Hands." And we revisit Mel Brooks' horror comedy, "Young Frankenstein."

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.

Terence Nance, creator of HBO’s “Random Acts Of Flyness,” explores black experiences in America. Plus, scientist Emma Byrne says voicing vulgarity could be good for you and “Boom Town” author Sam Anderson thunders on about the secret allure of Oklahoma City.

Writer Drew Magary on how he finished his sci-fi novel, 'Point B,' after a traumatic brain injury. And Milwaukee native Joe Wong unveils his debut solo album, 'Nite Creatures.' Also, Mary South talks about her debut short-story collection.

Satirist Dana Schwartz skewers the white male western canon. Plus, stand-up comedian Gary Gulman shines a new light on depression. And, musician Joe Henry gets personal on his album “The Gospel According to Water.”

Twenty years later, “The Sopranos” still reverberates through prestige television. Critics Matt Zoller Seitz and Alan Sepinwall unpack why. Plus, critically acclaimed novelist Tommy Orange on his novel “There There” and comedian Jena Friedman offers a soft touch on some hard issues.

Author Andy Greene takes us inside one of TV's greatest comedies, "The Office." Also, director Barry Sonnenfeld on making his mark in Hollywood. And writer Karen Tongson explains why Karen Carpenter matters.

Noah Hawley, creator of the FX series, “Fargo” gives us the true story about adapting a masterpiece. Also, comedian Hari Kondabolu pulls the curtain back on his career and graphic novelist Craig Thompson gets back to his Wisconsin roots in his new comic book series.

Mike Reiss has spent over half of his life writing for "The Simpsons." He shares the secrets behind Springfield. Plus, author Ottessa Moshfegh ponders what it would be like to unplug for a year in her novel "My Year of Rest and Relaxation" and io9 blogger Beth Elderkin talks about the history and the allure of the cliffhanger ending.