This week on "BETA," we are joined by Paul W. Downs and Lucia Aniello, the co-creators of the Max original series, “Hacks.” Also, Jahmal Mayfield joins us to talk about his debut noir novel, “Smoke Kings.” And folk singer Aoife O’Donovan pays tribute to Wisconsin suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt on her album, “All My Friends.”

Actor Jeff Daniels talks about his audio memoir, ‘Alive and Well Enough.’ Also, film critic Matt Singer on how Siskel and Ebert reinvented film criticism. And rock critic Rob Harvilla […]

This week on "BETA," award-winning actor and director David Duchovny on learning from failure. Plus, a look at the long-awaited solo album from music legend T Bone Burnett and a crash course on writing from author, Steve Almond.

Henry Winkler talks about being the Fonz, his connection to Milwaukee and HBO’s ‘Barry.’ Also, actress Illeana Douglas on her love affair with Connecticut movies. And Mark Mothersbaugh on how […]

Comedian Gary Gulman on what it was like growing up awkward in the ‘80s. TV and movie critic Matt Zoller Seitz takes us behind the scenes of Wes Anderson’s 2021 […]

Comedian Greg Proops talks about his hilarious album, ‘French Drug Deal.’ Also, comedian and musician Reggie Watts shares his memories of growing up in his memoir, ‘Great Falls, Montana.’ And […]

This week on BETA, hip-hop historian Nadirah Simmons highlights the game-changing ladies that made history in pop music. And one of crime fiction's greatest writers, George Pelecanos, talks aout his most autobiographical work yet. And journalist Daniel de Visé on the history of The Blues Brothers.

Comedian Aparna Nancherla talks about her battle with impostor syndrome. Also, “Telemarketers” director Sam Lipman-Stern gives us the lowdown on the shady side of the business. And Daniel Hornsby on his scathing Silicon Valley novel, 'Sucker.'

This week on "BETA," actor and comedian Zach Woods on his pitch-perfect NPR parody, “In the Know.” Also, comedian Steph Tolev on being filthy and funny. And Scott Guild on his multimedia novel, "Plastic."

Sarah Rose Etter talks about her surreal novel, ‘Ripe.’ Also, visual artist Kristine Potter shares the haunting reality behind murder ballads. And film critic Walter Chaw returns for another installment […]