Terry Gross
Stories
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Remembering Edmund White, a writer who chronicled gay life and culture
Growing up, White tried to "cure" his own homosexuality; he later drew upon that time for his 1982 bestseller, A Boy's Own Story. White died June 3. Originally broadcast in 1985, 1994, 1997 and 2006.
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How Larry Charles went from selling jokes on the street to writing for 'Seinfeld'
In his new memoir, Comedy Samurai, Charles reflects on his career in comedy — from writing for Seinfeld to directing Sacha Baron Cohen's films Borat and Brüno — and a recent near-death experience.
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Remembering Beach Boys founder Brian Wilson
Wilson, who died at age 82, was the creative force behind The Beach Boys. He wrote and produced many hits, including "Good Vibrations" and "God Only Knows." Originally broadcast in '88 and '98.
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What is the status of DOGE now that Elon Musk is gone?
Washington Post Reporter Hannah Natanson says DOGE's mass firings made the government more inefficient. She also explains the risks of DOGE creating a massive database for the Trump administration.
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'How to Lose Your Mother' author Molly Jong-Fast reflects on life with mom Erica Jong
In her new memoir, Jong-Fast writes that her mother, Erica Jong — who penned the 1973 feminist novel Fear of Flying — had become addicted to fame and couldn't bear losing it.
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Remembering longtime 'The Simpsons' composer Alf Clausen
The Emmy-winning composer/arranger worked with a 35-piece orchestra for 27 years, creating music for The Simpsons. Clausen died May 29. Originally broadcast May 14, 1997.
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When is forgetting normal — and when is it worrisome? A neuroscientist weighs in
Do you have trouble remembering names or where you put your keys? Neurologist Charan Ranganath, author of Why We Remember, talks about the science of memory. Originally broadcast Feb. 24, 2024.
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Trump's billion-dollar war on Harvard, explained
Harvard Law professor Noah Feldman says the attack represents an erosion of democratic values: "Ultimately, this is about Trump trying to impose his view of the world on everybody else."
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With 'I Love Lucy' and beyond, Desi Arnaz helped shaped TV as we know it
The success of I Love Lucy is often credited to Lucille Ball's comedic talent, but biographer Todd Purdum says Arnaz was more than just "second banana" to Lucy. He also helped shape the modern sitcom.
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Stunt performer turned director walks away mostly unscathed from fights, flipped cars
Filmmaker David Leitch says it's easier to do stunts himself than direct his stunt performer friends. "You are responsible for their safety," he explains. Originally broadcast July 22, 2024.
