As we celebrate the holidays and embark on Season 2, we’re pausing to reflect on some of the most memorable conversations from Season 1 of Running to the Noise. This special “Best Of” episode revisits moments with trailblazing guests whose diverse expertise is driving meaningful change across industries, communities, and cultures.

From journalism and politics to music, literature, history and filmmaking, these highlights showcase the depth of knowledge, creativity, and leadership of Oberlin alumni. 

What We Cover in This Episode

• Peter Baker ’88: The New York Times Chief White House Correspondent shares insights gained from covering five presidents and what we can expect from a second Trump presidency.
• Stephanie Rawlings-Blake ’92: The former Baltimore mayor discusses grappling with gender bias in politics and the leadership lessons she’s learned during moments of crisis, including protests following the death of Freddie Gray in police custody.
• Rhiannon Giddens ’00: The Grammy-winning artist reflects on discovering banjo, its cultural history, and her journey from Oberlin Conservatory to international acclaim.
• James McBride ’79: The best-selling author of The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store shares his writing process, the importance of joy in creativity, and why following happiness is the best career advice.
• Ed Helms ’96: The actor and comedian breaks down history’s greatest blunders in his podcast Snafu, exploring how the lessons of the past can prepare us for the future. 
• Shane Boris ’04: The Oscar-winning documentary producer of Navalny recounts the serendipitous moment that launched his career and the importance of authenticity in human connection.

Episode Links

The Divider

Explore Peter Baker and Susan Glasser’s in-depth analysis of the first Trump presidency and its implications.

The Divider by Peter Baker, Susan Glasser: 9780593082966 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

Rhiannon Giddens and the Banjo

Learn about Giddens’s efforts to preserve the banjo’s cultural roots and redefine its legacy.

https://www.rhiannongiddens.com

James McBride: The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store

Discover McBride’s latest novel, set to become a Steven Spielberg production.

https://www.jamesmcbride.com

Snafu by Ed Helms

Delve into the history podcast that uncovers the world’s most astonishing blunders.

SNAFU Media

Shane Boris: The Art of Documentary

Learn more about Shane Boris’s Academy Award-winning work and his approach to storytelling.

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