BETA

Prestige TV creator David Simon takes us inside his HBO mini-series, “The Plot Against America,” based on the Philip Roth novel. Also, musician Eef Barzelay talks about his career in and out of Clem Snide. And author Sam Wasson on the Holy Grail of 1970s cinema, “Chinatown.”

Comedian Scott Thompson revives his iconic and no-nonsense Buddy Cole character just in time. Plus, Paula Poundstone's journey for human happiness and a look back at the cultural touchstone that was They Might Be Giants' "Flood" with S. Alexander Reed.

Singer/Songwriter Ben Folds reflects on creating brutal piano rock. Also, "The Ringer"'s Shea Serrano serves up some cinematic thought experiments. And Folake Olowofoyeku on how immigrating to America led to her leading role in the sitcom, "Bob Hearts Abishola."

Drummer Steve Gorman on how life in The Black Crowes was too hard to handle. Also, YouTube star Andrew Rea gives dishes on his hit series, “Binging with Babish.” And crime novelist Laura Lippman talks about her latest novel, “Lady in the Lake.”

Author Jenny Offill talks about inventing the pre-apocalyptic novel. Also, Eric Johnson on how his folk trio Bonny Light Horseman breathes new life into old folk songs. And Wendy Mitchell on her book, "Citizen Canine: Dogs in the Movies."

Sleater-Kinney's Carrie Brownstein talks about the band's evolution. Also, author Joe Hill shares what it's like collaborating with his father, novelist Stephen King. And, writer Casey Rae measures William Burrough's impact on rock 'n' roll history.

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."

Wisconsin martial arts teacher and actor Mike Moh on his dream role. Plus, we go behind the stories from Apple TV’s “Little America” and get life advice from some of history’s greatest women.

Comedian Ginny Hogan wades through office gender politics with her new satire, “Toxic Femininity in the Workplace.” Plus, filmmaker Don Coscarelli looks back on his cult classic, “Phantasm” and author Tope Folarin grapples with identity in his debut novel.

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