Live Wire with Luke Burbank
PRXLive Wire with Luke Burbank
Like late-night for radio, Live Wire is hosted by Luke Burbank (Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me) and artfully blends an eclectic mix of artists, musicians, writers, filmmakers, comedians, and cultural observers.
Like late-night for radio, Live Wire is hosted by Luke Burbank (Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me) and artfully blends an eclectic mix of artists, musicians, writers, filmmakers, comedians, and cultural observers.
This episode features writer George Saunders and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain.
This episode features comedian Guy Branum, writer and filmmaker Julian Brave NoiseCat, and music from singer-songwriter Georgia Maq.
This episode features writer and podcaster Kelsey McKinney, author Omar El Akkad, and music from indie folk band Kuinka.
This episodes features poet Reginald Dwayne Betts, actor and writer Annabelle Gurwitch, and music from singer-songwriter Max Gomez.
This episode features author Lidia Yuknavitch, comedy writer Felipe Torres Medina, and music from Pedro the Lion.
This episode features humorist John Hodgman and music from vocalist China Forbes.
This episode features writer Scaachi Koul with music and poetry from Emma Ruth Rundle.
This episode features comedian Hari Kondabolu, podcasters Lindy West & Meagan Hatcher-Mays, and singer-songwriter John Craigie.
This episode features writer Kari Ferrell, comedian Zak Toscani, and music from soul group Ural Thomas & The Pain.
This Black History Month special features writer and explorer Tara Roberts, photojournalist Ivan McClellan, and music from singer-songwriter Danielia Cotton.
This episode features poet and essayist Morgan Parker, athlete and writer Georgia Cloepfil, and Brazilian singer-songwriter Rogê.
This episode features advice columnist R. Eric Thomas, activists Reverend Billy & Savitri D, and music from The Brudi Brothers.
This episode features author Héctor Tobar, writer and comedian Jena Friedman, and music from indie folk trio Joseph.
This episode features actor and writer Jeff Hiller, comedian Mohanad Elshieky, and music from singer-songwriter Edna Vázquez.
This "Best of 2025 Special" features some of Live Wire's favorite moments of the year, with guests such as comedian Paul F. Tompkins, poet Danez Smith, and music from Riki Lindhome.
This episode features New Yorker writer Susan Orlean and singer-songwriter David Ramirez.
This episode features author and Jeopardy co-host Ken Jennings, writer Erica Berry, and music from rock ground Making Movies.
This episode features writer Tamara Yajia, stand-up comedy Susan Rice, and music from singer-songwriter Anna Tivel.
This episode features satirist Ginny Hogan, Oregon's Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani, and music from Jimmie Herrod.
This episode features writer Alexis Okeowo, comedian Maria Bamford, and music from singer-songwriter Pete Droge.
This episode features writer and podcaster Sona Movsesian, standup comedian Marcella Arguello, and music from Brown Calculus.
This episode features stand-up from Maria Bamford, comedian and crop artist Brandi Brown, and music from The Reasonable Doubts.
This episode features acclaimed author Timothy Egan, plus rapper and poet Dessa.
This episode features writer Edgar Gomez, author and former wildland firefighter River Selby, with music from Hunter Noack.
This episode features writer and director Laura Chinn, standup comedian Mohanad Elshieky, and music Jenny Conlee of The Decemberists.
This episode features science and humor author Mary Roach, stand-up comedian Janesh Rahlan, and music from singer-songwriter Amy Millan.
This episode features YA author and podcaster Dana Schwartz, writer Jenny Odell, and music from Black Belt Eagle Scout.
This episode features comedian Paul F. Tompkins and music from Ethio-jazz performer Meklit.
This episode features writer Chuck Klosterman and music from international rock group Making Movies.
This episode features radio host and podcaster Sam Sanders, filmmaker Sandi DuBowski, and music from indie folk duo The Lowest Pair.
This episode features New York Times Magazine writer Jon Mooallem, chef and bar owner Jenny Nguyen, and music from singer-songwriter Laura Veirs.
This episode feature podcaster Aubrey Gordon (Maintenance Phase), writer and multidisciplinary artist Jean Grae, and music from Latin Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Rogê.
This episode features runner and author Lauren Fleshman, comedian and writer Joey Clift, and music from indie supergroup Who Is She?
This episode features writer Melissa Febos, journalist and podcaster Evan Ratliff, and music from psychedelic cumbia punk band Tropa Magica.
This episode features podcaster and writer Dylan Marron and music from Brittany Davis.
This episode features chef and author J. Kenji López-Alt, music journalist Ann Powers, and music from singer-songwriter Khatumu.
Open Book is a literary limited series, featuring some of today’s most celebrated authors riffing on reading habits and bookish hot takes.
This episode features poet and essayist Ross Gay, writer and Michelin Star chef Lane Regan, and music from Baroque Betty with Mood Area 52.
Open Book is a literary limited series, featuring some of today’s most celebrated authors riffing on reading habits and bookish hot takes.
This episode features writer Gabe Henry, poet William Nuʻutupu Giles, and music from soul group Sir Woman.
This episode features New Yorker writer Kathryn Schulz, football coach Keanon Lowe, and music from singer-songwriter John Craigie.
This episode features travel writer Rick Steves and music from The Lullaby Project.
Open Book is a literary limited series, featuring some of today’s most celebrated authors riffing on reading habits and bookish hot takes.
This episode features poet Saeed Jones, writer Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and indie-folk duo The Lowest Pair.
Open Book is a literary limited series, featuring some of today’s most celebrated authors riffing on reading habits and bookish hot takes.
This episode features author Karen Russell, comedian Sam Miller, and music from singer-songwriter David Ramirez.
Open Book is a literary limited series, featuring some of today’s most celebrated authors riffing on reading habits and bookish hot takes.
This episode features actor and filmmaker Bruce Campbell, comedian Sara Schaefer, and singer-songwriter Emi Pop.
Open Book is a literary limited series, featuring some of today’s most celebrated authors riffing on reading habits and bookish hot takes.
This episode features writer and podcaster Kelsey McKinney, author Omar El Akkad, and music from indie folk band Kuinka.
Open Book is a literary limited series featuring some of today’s most celebrated authors on reading habits and bookish hot takes.
This episode features author Rachel Khong, poet Danez Smith, and music from singer-songwriter Danielia Cotton.
This episode features author Lidia Yuknavitch, comedy writer Felipe Torres Medina, and music from Pedro the Lion.
This episode features podcaster Jamie Loftus, comedian Hari Kondabolu, and music from Americana rock group Blitzen Trapper.
This episode features writer Scaachi Koul with music and poetry from Emma Ruth Rundle.
This episode features author Danzy Senna, documentary filmmaker Penny Lane, and music from Johnny Franco and His Real Brother Dom.
This episode features writer Kari Ferrell, comedian Zak Toscani, and music from soul group Ural Thomas & The Pain.
This episode features horror author Stephen Graham Jones, stand-up comedian Alex Falcone, and music from psychedelic cumbia punk band Tropa Magica.
To celebrate National Poetry Month, Live Wire shares performances and conversations with celebrated poets Paisley Rekdal, Hanif Abdurraqib, Anis Mojgani, and Kaveh Akbar, with music from singer-songwriter Kasey Anderson.
This episode features writer Carvell Wallace, poet Joy Sullivan, and music from singer-songwriter Danielle Durack.
This episode features poet and essayist Morgan Parker, athlete and writer Georgia Cloepfil, and Brazilian singer-songwriter Rogê.
This episode writer Shalom Auslander, poet Simon Shieh, and singer-songwriter Kara Jackson.
This episode features cultural critic and podcaster Ira Madison III and musical comedy from Riki Lindhome.
This episode features poet and essayist Roger Reeves, stand-up comedian Sean Jordan, and music from singer-songwriter Erin Rae.
This episode features actor and filmmaker Bruce Campbell, comedian Sara Schaefer, and singer-songwriter Emi Pop.
This episode features writer Emily Nussbaum of The New Yorker and music from Pink Martini.
This episode features author Rachel Khong, poet Danez Smith, and music from singer-songwriter Danielia Cotton.
This episode features writer Ijeoma Oluo, podcaster Sarah Marshall, and singer-songwriter Anna Tivel.
This Black History Month Special features 22nd Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith, writer and poet Saeed Jones, and music from singer-songwriter Meklit.
This episode features Depths of Wikipedia founder Annie Rauwerda, photographer Ivan McClellan, and music from fiddler Sami Braman.
This episode features podcaster Jamie Loftus, comedian Hari Kondabolu, and music from Americana rock group Blitzen Trapper.
This episode features writer Noé Álvarez, professor Naomi Fitter with stand-up comedian Jon the Robot, and music from singer-songwriter John Craigie.
This special episode features an excerpt of Live Wire's new limited series podcast "Damp January," plus The New Yorker's Adam Gopnik and music from rapper, poet, and singer Dessa.
This episode features comedian and writer Ian Karmel with Dr. Alisa Karmel, stand-up comedian Zainab Johnson, and music from Meklit.
This special holiday edition of Live Wire features comedian and podcaster Paul F. Tompkins, poet José Olivarez, and singer-songwriter Esmé Patterson.
This episode features author Danzy Senna, documentary filmmaker Penny Lane, and music from Johnny Franco and His Real Brother Dom.
This episode features writer and podcaster Amanda Montell, stand-up comedy from Laurie Kilmartin, and music from singer-songwriter Lizzie No.
This episode features horror author Stephen Graham Jones, stand-up comedian Alex Falcone, and music from psychedelic cumbia punk band Tropa Magica.
This episode features writer Hanif Abdurraqib and music from singer-songwriter Kristin Hersh.
This episode features writer Carvell Wallace, poet Joy Sullivan, and music from singer-songwriter Danielle Durack.
This episode features comedian and TV host W. Kamau Bell, journalist and podcaster Jane Marie, and music from Y La Bamba.
This episode writer Shalom Auslander, poet Simon Shieh, and singer-songwriter Kara Jackson.
This episode features comedian Dulcé Sloan, filmmaker Brian Lindstrom, and music from singer-songwriter S.G. Goodman.
This episode features poet and essayist Roger Reeves, stand-up comedian Sean Jordan, and music from singer-songwriter Erin Rae.
This episode features journalist Bianca Bosker and music from singer-songwriter Brittany Davis.
This episode features writer Emily Nussbaum of The New Yorker and music from Pink Martini.
This episode features New Yorker cartoonist Emily Flake, writer and artist Tessa Hulls, and music from Pure Bathing Culture.
This episode features writer Ijeoma Oluo, podcaster Sarah Marshall, and singer-songwriter Anna Tivel.
This episode features comedian and writer Moshe Kasher, stand-up from Mohanad Elshieky, and music from indie rock group Glitterfox.
This episode features Depths of Wikipedia founder Annie Rauwerda, photographer Ivan McClellan, and music from fiddler Sami Braman.
This episode features writer and podcaster Lindy West, comedian Paul F. Tompkins, and music from soul group Ural Thomas and the Pain.
This episode features comedian and writer Ian Karmel with Dr. Alisa Karmel, stand-up comedian Zainab Johnson, and music from Meklit.
This episode features writer Sloane Crosley, The New Yorker Roz Chast, and Black Belt Eagle Scout.
This episode features writer Noé Álvarez, professor Naomi Fitter with stand-up comedian Jon the Robot, and music from singer-songwriter John Craigie.
This episode features comedian and writer Dave Hill, plus music from historian and singer-songwriter No-No Boy.
This episode features writer and podcaster Amanda Montell, stand-up comedy from Laurie Kilmartin, and music from singer-songwriter Lizzie No.
This episode features podcaster Avery Trufelman, author Camille Dungy, and singer-songwriter Olive Klug.
This episode features writer Hanif Abdurraqib and music from singer-songwriter Kristin Hersh.
This episode features journalist J. Wortham of The New York Times Magazine, author Curtis Sittenfeld, and singer-songwriter Margo Cilker.
This episode features comedian and TV host W. Kamau Bell, journalist and podcaster Jane Marie, and music from Y La Bamba.
This episode features comedian Hari Kondabula, writer Kristi Coulter, and music from indie rock duo Quasi.
This episode features comedian Dulcé Sloan, filmmaker Brian Lindstrom, and music from singer-songwriter S.G. Goodman.
This episode features podcaster Sam Sanders, comedian Reggie Watts, and music from indie folk duo Sway Wild.
This episode features journalist Bianca Bosker and music from singer-songwriter Brittany Davis.
This episode features author R. Eric Thomas, comedian Ian Karmel, and music from indie group NONBINARY GIRLFRIEND.
This 20th Anniversary Special features writer and former Live Wire host Courtenay Hameister, plus music from Charley Crockett and Moshow the Cat Rapper.
This episode features comedian and podcaster Paul F. Tompkins, poet and memoirist Safiya Sinclair, and music from Isabeau Waia'u Walker.
This episode features writer Cheryl Strayed, comedian Jay Jurden, and music from Dessa.
This episode features comedian and writer Aparna Nancherla, stand-up comedy from Gary Gulman, and music from singer-songwriter No-No Boy.
This episode features New Yorker cartoonist Emily Flake, writer and artist Tessa Hulls, and music from Pure Bathing Culture.
This episode feature comedian Gary Gulman, Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani, and music from singer-songwriter Olive Klug.
This episode features comedian and writer Moshe Kasher, stand-up from Mohanad Elshieky, and music from indie rock group Glitterfox.
This episode features writer and comedian Scott Aukerman, astrophysicist Sarafina El-Badry Nance, and music from Family Worship Center.
This episode features writer and podcaster Lindy West, comedian Paul F. Tompkins, and music from soul group Ural Thomas and the Pain.
This episode features author Héctor Tobar, writer and comedian Jena Friedman, and music from indie folk trio Joseph.
This episode features writer Sloane Crosley, The New Yorker Roz Chast, and Black Belt Eagle Scout.
This episode features comedian Maria Bamford and music from singer-songwriter Isabeau Waia'u Walker.
This episode features comedian and writer Dave Hill and music from singer-songwriter No-No Boy.
This episode features author and Jeopardy co-host Ken Jennings, writer Erica Berry, and music from rock group Making Movies.
To celebrate Valentine's Day, this extra episode features author Curtis Sittenfeld on rom-com couples.
This episode features podcaster Avery Trufelman, author Camille Dungy, and singer-songwriter Olive Klug.
This Black History Month Special features the 22nd U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith, writer and poet Saeed Jones, and music from singer-songwriter Meklit.
This episode features journalist J. Wortham of The New York Times Magazine, author Curtis Sittenfeld, and singer-songwriter Margo Cilker.
This episode features writer and podcaster Jamie Loftus, chef J. Kenji Lopez-Alt, and music from Danielle Ponder.
This episode features comedian Hari Kondabula, writer Kristi Coulter, and music from indie rock duo Quasi.
This episode features journalist Ari Shapiro (All Things Considered) and comedian and TV writer Demi Adejuyigbe.
This episode features acclaimed author Timothy Egan, plus rapper and poet Dessa.
This special holiday edition of Live Wire features comedian and podcaster Paul F. Tompkins, poet José Olivarez, and singer-songwriter Esme Patterson.
In this podcast extra, comedian Aparna Nancherla (Unreliable Narrator: Me, Myself and Imposter Syndrome) is quizzed on the former "career lowlights" of some high-profile celebrities.
This episode features writer and director Laura Chinn, standup comedian Mohanad Elshieky, and music Jenny Conlee of The Decemberists.
This episode features podcaster Sam Sanders, coemdian Reggie Watts, and music from indie folk duo Sway Wild.
This episode features YA author and podcaster Dana Schwartz, writer Jenny Odell, and music from Black Belt Eagle Scout.
This episode features author R. Eric Thomas, comedian Ian Karmel, and music from indie group NONBINARY GIRLFRIEND.
This episode features podcaster and journalist Kelsey McKinney, poet Brenda Shaughnessy, and music from singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham.
This episode features comedian and podcaster Paul F. Tompkins, poet and memoirist Safiya Sinclair, and music from Isabeau Waia'u Walker.
This episode features runner and author Lauren Fleshman, comedian and writer Joey Clift, and music from indie supergroup Who Is She?
This episode features comedian and writer Aparna Nancherla, stand-up comedy from Gary Gulman, and music from singer-songwriter No-No Boy.
This episode features author Cheryl Strayed, writer Joseph Earl Thomas, and music from singer-songwriter Stephanie Anne Johnson.
This episode feature comedian Gary Gulman, Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani, and music from singer-songwriter Olive Klug.
This episode features poet and essayist Ross Gay, writer and Michelin Star chef Iliana Regan, and music Baroque Betty with Mood Area 52.
This episode features writer and comedian Scott Aukerman, astrophysicist Sarafina El-Badry Nance, and music from Family Worship Center.
This episode features comedian Hari Kondabolu ("Snack vs. Chef") and singer-songwriter Margo Cilker.
This episode features author Héctor Tobar, writer and comedian Jena Friedman, and music from indie folk trio Joseph.
This episode features chef and writer J. Kenji Lopez-Alt, comedian Sara Schaefer, and music from indie rock group Dehd.
This episode features comedian Maria Bamford and music from singer-songwriter Isabeau Waia'u Walker.
This episode features poet Saeed Jones, writer Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and indie-folk duo The Lowest Pair.
This episode features podcaster Aubrey Gordon, standup comedian Chris Meija, and music from Danielle Ponder.
In this extra episode, podcaster, writer, and road-tripper Jamie Loftus (Raw Dog: The Naked Truth about Hot Dogs) tests her knowledge of the official slogans of various American states.
This episode features podcaster and writer Nora McInerny, music industry entrepreneur Nabil Ayers, and singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham.
This episode features acclaimed writer George Saunders and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain.
This episode features author and Jeopardy co-host Ken Jennings, writer Erica Berry, and music from rock group Making Movies.
This episode features Washington Post reporter Casey Park and singer-songwriter Thunderstorm Artis.
This episode features journalist Ari Shapiro (All Things Considered) and comedian and TV writer Demi Adejuyigbe.
This episode features satirist Ginny Hogan, Oregon's Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani, and music from Jimmie Herrod.
This episode features writer and podcaster Jamie Loftus, poet José Olivarez, and music from Danielle Ponder.
This episode features writer and podcaster Sona Movsesian, stand-up comedian Marcella Arguello, and music from Brown Calculus.
This episode features acclaimed author Timothy Egan, plus rapper and poet Dessa.
This episode features podcaster Sam Sanders, writer Erika L. Sanchez, and music from singer-songwriter John Craigie.
This episode features writer and director Laura Chinn, standup comedian Mohanad Elshieky, and music Jenny Conlee of The Decemberists.
This episode features writer Isaac Fitzgerald, stand-up comedian Carmen Lagala, and music from multi-media artist No-No Boy.
This episode features YA author and podcaster Dana Schwartz, writer Jenny Odell, and music from Black Belt Eagle Scout.
This episode features writer Chuck Klosterman and music from international rock group Making Movies.
This episode features podcaster and journalist Kelsey McKinney, poet Brenda Shaughnessy, and music from singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham.
In this podcast extra, journalist and Normal Gossip podcaster gives advice on gossip etiquette.
This episode features musician and writer Michelle Zauner (a.k.a. Japanese Breakfast), standup comedian Sean Patton, and singer-songwriter Kurt Vile.
This episode features New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik, standup comedian Abby Govindan, and music from singer-songwriter Reckless Son.
Luke and Elena explore their best celebrity impersonations in a desperate attempt to get you to join the League of Extraordinary Listeners!
This episode features New York Times Magazine writer Jon Mooallem, chef and bar owner Jenny Nguyen, and music from singer-songwriter Laura Veirs.
In this podcast EXTRA, celebrated author Cheryl Strayed (Wild, Tiny Beautiful Things) dons her Dear Sugar persona to give advice on some meaningless scenarios.
This episode features runner and author Lauren Fleshman, comedian and writer Joey Clift, and music from indie supergroup Who Is She?
This episode features podcaster and writer Dylan Marron and music from Brittany Davis
This episode features author Cheryl Strayed ("Tiny Beautiful Things"), writer Joseph Earl Thomas, and music from singer-songwriter Stephanie Anne Johnson.
This episode features indie rock singer-songwriter Andrew Bird, plus "Gastro Obscura" author Cecily Wong
In this podcast EXTRA, Michelin star chef and forager Iliana Regan plays a round of "Metal vs Mushroom."
This episode features poet and essayist Ross Gay, writer and Michelin Star chef Iliana Regan, and music Baroque Betty with Mood Area 52.
This "Women's History Month" special episode features comedian and podcaster Jamie Loftus, writer and mountaineer Silvia Vasquez-Lavado, and music from feminist icon and activist Ani DiFranco.
This episode features comedian Hari Kondabolu ("Snack vs. Chef") and singer-songwriter Margo Cilker.
This episode features New Yorker writer Kathryn Schultz, football coach Keanon Lowe, and music from singer-songwriter John Craigie.
This episode features poet Saeed Jones, writer Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and indie-folk duo The Lowest Pair.
This "Black History Month" special episode features comedian and TV writer Sam Jay, publisher Jelani Memory, and music from Leyla McCalla and Black Violin.
This episode features chef and writer J. Kenji Lopez-Alt, comedian Sara Schaefer, and music from indie rock group Dehd.
This episode features filmmaker John Waters, writer Sasha LaPoint, and music from indie rock band Deep Sea Diver.
This episode features podcaster Aubrey Gordon, standup comedian Chris Meija, and music from Danielle Ponder.
In this podcast EXTRA, Maintenance Phase podcaster Audrey Gordon gives her hot takes on some fads past and present.
This episode features celebrated chef and restaurateur Gregory Gourdet, plus music from singer-songwriter No-No Boy.
This episode features actor and comedian Molly Shannon and music by South African rocker Tuelo.
This special Holiday Edition of Live Wire features comedian Paul F. Tompkins, podcaster Sarah Marshall of You're Wrong About, and music from jazz vocalist Jimmie Herrod of Pink Martini.
In this podcast EXTRA, comedian and writer Demi Adejuyigbe serenades us from the live stage with his own holiday song, "Rock n' Roll Santa Claus."
This episode features podcaster and writer Nora McInerny, music industry entrepreneur Nabil Ayers, and singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham.
This episode features comedian and podcaster Jamie Loftus, writer and publisher Jelani Memory, and music from Tolliver.
This episode features writer and frontman of The Mountain Goats John Darnielle, plus rapper and podcaster Dessa.
This episode features acclaimed writer George Saunders and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain.
This episode features writer and mountaineer Silvia Vasquez-Lavado, comedian Curtis Cook, and music from singer-songwriter Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers.
Luke and Elena discuss disturbing Times Square billboards, kittens in a fighter jet, and cuddling turkeys.
This episode features Washington Post reporter Casey Park and singer-songerwriter and The Voice finalist Thunderstorm Artis.
Luke and Elena discuss a (now debunked) dazzling detail about Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton's rock 'n' roll aspirations, and how a man provided the city of Philadelphia some much-needed solace... via a rotisserie chicken-eating marathon.
This episode features poet Kaveh Akbar, writer Danielle Henderson, and music from indie rock band Deep Sea Diver.
Luke and Elena discuss a motorcycling sabbatical, Susie Burbank's dance stylings, and wedding rendition of Mambo No. 5.
This episode features satirist Ginny Hogan, Oregon's Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani, and music from Pink Martini's Jimmie Herrod.
"Luke and Elena discuss Airbnb decor, a man who made a floating suit out of wine bottle corks, and an emo festival that collided with a Katy Perry concert in Las Vegas. "
This episode features writer Gary Shteyngart, comedian Atsuko Okatska, and music from indie folk duo The Lowest Pair.
Luke and Elena discuss furniture-scratching cats, saxophone-accompanied brain surgery, and twins who finally sold their domain name.
This episode features Conan O'Brien's assistant Sona Movsesian, stand-up comedian Marcella Arguello, and music from Brown Calculus.
Luke and Elena discuss Fat Bear Week, Trader Joe's sample resurgence, and Russell Crowe's charitable donations.
This episode features writer and radio host Tom Scharpling (The Best Show), comedian Mohanad Elshieky, and music from indie rock group MAITA
Luke and Elena discuss misremembered vocal stylings, Lizzo taking James Madison's crystal flute out for a spin, and a 91-year-old man who found a new lease on life via macadamia farming.
This episode features podcaster Sam Sanders, writer Erika L. Sanchez, and music from singer-songwriter John Craigie.
Luke and Elena discuss the Millennium Falcon of litter boxes, how Elton John made the President cry, and a kid whose lunch complaint went viral.
This episode features rocker Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe, filmmaker Todd Haynes, and music from Melanie Charles
Luke and Elena discuss Tony Passarello's Live Wire fandom, the first female Mariachi band in Denver Colorado, and rescuing a busload of stranded Torontonians.
This episode features writer Isaac Fitzgerald, stand-up comedian Carmen Lagala, and music from multi-media artist No-No Boy.
Luke and Elena discuss fly-by summers, food stand hustles, and South Dakota's Corn-Bassador.
In this EXTRA, comedians and podcasters Paul F. Tompkins (Spontaneanation), Sarah Marshall (You're Wrong About) and Demi Adejuyigbe (Gilmore Guys) team up for a raucous round of "Whose Podcast Is It, Anyway?" live from the stage in Portland, Oregon.
This episode features writer Chuck Klosterman and Making Movies
This episode features writer Nichole Perkins, filmmaker Lucy Walker, and music from Broadway star Joshua Henry.
This episode features podcaster and writer Dylan Marron and music from Brittany Davis
This episode features writer and comedian Cecily Strong (Saturday Night Live) and rapper Shad.
This episode features writer Jon Mooallem, chef and bar owner Jenny Nguyen, and music from singer-songwriter Laura Veirs.
This episode features writer Daisy Hernandez and The Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne.
This episode features comedian and Emmy Award-nominated writer Sam Jay, stand-up from Sean Patton, and music from singer-songwriter Kurt Vile.
The Best News will return weekly beginning September 14, so stay tuned!
This Father's Day episode features filmmaker Kirsten Johnson, comedian Chris Garcia, and music from Wilco's Jeff Tweedy.
Luke and Elena discuss the Kate Bush resurgence, a missing dachshund that made its way into Hillary Swank's lap, and sexy Swedish trash cans.
This episode features food writer Cecily Wong and indie rock singer-songwriter Andrew Bird.
Luke and Elena discuss a turtle on a Hot Wheel, "Hero Rats" with tiny backpacks, and endangered bees now classified as fish.
In celebration of Pride Month, this special episode features writer Kristen Arnett, podcaster James Kim, and music from Lavender Country.
This episode features New Yorker writer Kathryn Schultz, football coach Keanon Lowe, and music from singer-songwriter John Craigie.
Luke and Elena discuss kitten claws, a high school student who subbed in as Pearl Jam’s drummer, and a Minnesota prison program that teaches tattooing to inmates.
This episode features podcast host Anna Sale, writer Elissa Washuta, and music from indie rocker Juliana Hatfield.
Luke and Elena discuss ping-pong showmanship, TikTok's favorite baseball team, and a passenger with no flight experience who emergency-landed a plane at Florida airport.
This episode features filmmaker John Waters, writer Sasha LaPoint, and music from indie rock band Deep Sea Diver.
Luke and Elena discuss a young listener's quest to transcribe a 200-year French diary, Canadians barred from committing murder in space, and the triumphant return of the California condors.
Live Wire celebrates Mother's Day with musician and writer Michelle Zauner (a.k.a. Japanese Breakfast), Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes, and music from Moorea Masa.
Luke and Elena discuss recording this week from a Mazda rental car, a robot living with a penguin colony in Antarctica, and a nonprofit that sends unused hotel soap to people in need.
This episode features celebrated chef and restaurateur Gregory Gourdet and music from singer-songwriter No-No Boy.
Luke and Elena discuss a guilt-ridden mail bag, a lemonade stand raising money for the Humane Society, and an anonymous French man who's donating his lottery winnings to help the planet.
This episode features comedian and podcaster Laci Mosley, actor Marlee Matlin, and music from Kishi Bashi.
Luke and Elena discuss kitty adoptee Bubbles Burbank, a new Pink Floyd song in solidarity with Ukraine, a prom dress giveaway, and 90s butt cuts.
This episode features actor and comedian Molly Shannon and music by South African rocker Tuelo.
Luke and Elena discuss Band-Aid haute couture, a runaway flamingo living his best life in Texas, and a hyperpolyglot who finds empathy through language learning.
In celebration of National Poetry Month, Live Wire welcomes poets Roger Reeves, Anis Mojgani, Franny Choi, and Derrick C. Brown with musical accompaniment by The Helio Sequence.
Luke and Elena discuss "guilty" fan mail, one teacher's maligned footwear, and newly discovered footage of a young Prince standing up for public school teachers.
This episode features comedian and podcaster Jamie Loftus, writer and publisher Jelani Memory, and music from Tolliver.
Luke and Elena discuss rolling mangos, the book lady of Danville, Virginia, and a happily ever after for a supposedly "gay" dog.
This episode features comedian Chris Gethard, science journalist Julia Rosen, and music from singer-songwriter Shakey Graves.
Luke and Elena discuss an all-Black, female WWII battalion, cardboard shredding in Hawaii, and Luke's breakdancing crew.
This episode features writer and mountaineer Silvia Vasquez-Lavado, comedian Curtis Cook, and music from singer-songwriter Patterson Hood.
Luke and Elena discuss appliance clocks, a veteran elementary school teacher who has raised over $100,000 to keep students from going hungry over break, and the recent discovery of the century-old Endurance shipwreck.
These Women's History Month special features filmmaker Andrea Nevins, writer Melissa Febos, and music from Pink Martini.
Luke and Elena discuss peduncle elongation, an elementary school hotline that's lifting spirits, and the "original" Wordle (as well as its many variations).
This epsiode features novelist and frontman of The Mountain Goats, plus rapper and podcaster Dessa.
Luke and Elena discuss fan mail, a baby born at 2:22AM on February 22, 2022, plus a 500-pound bear who was falsely accused of home break-ins in Lake Tahoe.
This episode features author Karen Russell, comedian Marcella Arguello, and music from Ani DiFranco
Luke and Elena discuss Jeopardy consulation prizes, boutique road races, diorama diner cats, and a centenary woman getting a special birthday tattoo.
The episode features filmmakers W. Kamau Bell & Katie King, comedian Paul F. Tompkins, and music from Grammy Award-winning blues artist Keb' Mo'.
Luke and Elena discuss young fatherhood, robot care, a prescription Parks Pass, and Olympic gold medalist Erin Jackson.
This episode features television writer Michael Schur, comedian Demi Adejuyigbe, and music from folk due Shovels & Rope
Luke and Elena discuss work robes and bed desks, a Harvard thesis-turned-TikTok musical, and a 5-year-old offering his own quirky pearls of wisdom.
This Black History Month Special features award-winning writers Hanif Abdurraqib and Clint Smith, with music from genre-bending powerhouse Melanie Charles
Luke and Elena discuss "healthy" potato chips, John Prine tattoos, a pug "bark" mitzvah, and the USA Mullet Championships
This episode features writer Matthew Gavin Frank, filmmakers Davy Rothbart & Cheryl Sanford, and music from Andrew Bird & Jimbo Mathus
Luke and Elena discuss Star Trek retractions, college blackboards, cow hoof trimming, cat hijackers, and the importance of tipping.
This epsiode features comedian Paul F. Tompkins, podcaster and social critic Sarah Marshall, and music from blues artist Buffalo Nichols
Luke and Elena discuss Wordle scores, mom feedback, laughing animals, and driving goldfish.
This episode features actor and podcaster Connor ratliff, writer Mikki Kendall, and indie folk artist Faye Webster
Luke and Elena discuss Dry January, breakthrough COVID, kangaroo rescues, and the legacy of Allen Toussaint.
This episode features poet Kaveh Akbar, writer Danielle Henderson, and music from indie rock band Deep Sea Diver
This episode features actor and writer David Duchovny, jump rope world champions Nick & Kaylee Woodard, and music from singer-songwriter Jensen McRae
This episode features hip hop artist and activist Talib Kweli, celebrated writer George Saunders, and music from singer-songwriter Jillette Johnson
This "Best of Books" special features celebrated writers Ashley C. Ford and John Green
This episode features filmmaker Penny Lane, writer Omar El Akkad, and music from The Dip
This episode features 99% Invisible podcasters Roman Mars & Kurt Kohlstedt, writer Shayla Lawson, and music from singer-songwriter Colin Hay
This episode features writer Gary Shteyngart, comedian Atsuko Okatska, and music from indie folk duo The Lowest Pair
This episode features writer Ijeoma Oluo, historian Jill Lepore, and music from indie folk duo The Bengsons
This episode features writer and radio host Tom Scharpling (The Best Show), comedian Mohanad Elshieky, and music from indie rock group MAITA
This episode features actress and TV creator Rachel Bloom, poet Natalie Diaz, and music from singer-songwriter Kevin Morby
This episode features rocker Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe, filmmaker Todd Haynes, and music from Melanie Charles
This epsiode features filmmakers Cristina Costantini & Kareem Tabsch, plus singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, creator of the folk opera Hadestown.
This epsiode features actor and humorist Nick Offerman, comedian Phoebe Robinson, and music from gothic blues performer Adia Victoria
This episode features actor and TV writer Demi Adejuyigbe, comedian and podcaster Jamie Loftus, and music from soul duo The War and Treaty
This episode features actor Marlee Martin, writer Melissa Febos, and music from folk-blues duo Ida Mae
This episode features copy editor Mary Norris (The New Yorker), actor and writer Ryan O'Connell, and music from soul-rock group Dirty Revival
This episode features filmmakers Mark Duplass & Natalie Morales, ballet dancer James Whiteside, and music from singer-songwriter Dar Williams
This episode features comedian Maria Bamford, stand-up comic Shain Brenden, and music from Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Brandy Clark
This episode features writer Nichole Perkins, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Lucy Walker, and music from Hamilton's Joshua Henry
This episode features comedian Hari Kondabolu, science writer Sarah Scoles, and music from Angelica Garcia
This episode features SNL cast member Cecily Strong and rapper Shad
This episode features writer Casey Cep of The New Yorker, comedian Matteo Lane, and music from singer-songwriter Samantha Crain
This episode features writer Daisy Hernández and The Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne
This episode features writer Lindy West, filmmaker Kirsten Johnson, and music from Leyla McCalla
This episode features author and podcaster Lulu Miller, comedian and New York Times contributor Sopan Deb, and music from R&B songstress Moorea Masa
This episode features cultural critic and poet Hanif Abdurraqib, writer Eula Biss, and music from Lydia Loveless
This episode features writer Lidia Yuknavitch, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka, and music from Seattle-based rock group The Black Tones
This episode features writer and psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb, Pulitzer Prize winner Mitchell S. Jackson, comedian Mohanad Elshieky, and music from Revel in Dimes
This episode features celebrated writer Ashley C. Ford and music from gothic folk icon Amigo the Devil
This episode features writer Adam Mansbach, filmmaker Maya Forbes and singer China Forbes, plus comedy from Kurt Braunohler
This episode features comedian Chris Gethard, writer Clint Smith, and music from singer-songwriter Faye Webster
This episode includes writers Daniel Lavery and Michael Arceneaux, plus music from Jonathan Russell of indie folk group The Head and the Heart.
This episode includes bestselling author David Green and music from rapper Dessa
This episode includes author Samantha Irby, comedian Jackie Kashian, and music from blues artist Fantastic Negrito
This episode includes podcaster Anna Sale, writer Elissa Washuta, and music from indie rocker Juliana Hatfield
This Mother's Day special episode includes filmmaker Barry Sonnenfeld, writer Saeed Jones, comedian Laurie Kilmartin, and music from Alela Diane
This episode includes musician and writer Michelle Zauner, comedian Laci Mosley, and music from Kishi Bashi
This episode includes comedian Cameron Esposito, writer Ross Gay, and music from The Lone Bellow.
This episode features playwright Quiara Alegría Hudes, essayist Lauren Hough, and music from hip hop duo Black Violin
This episode features poets Roger Reeves, Franny Choi, and Derrick C. Brown with musical accompaniment from The Helio Sequence
This episode includes writer Hanif Abdurraqib, filmmaker Andrea Nevins, and music from Shakey Graves
This episode features comedian Paula Poundstone, comedy writer Joey Clift of "Our Fifty States Project," and music from Jimmie Herrod
In celebration of Women's History Month, this episode features author and activist Mikki Kendall, comedian and podcaster Jamie Loftus, and music from Pink Martini
This episode features writer Shea Serrano, comedians Brooks Wheelan & Nick Turner, and music from Waxahatchee
This episode features writer Matthew Gavin Frank, filmmaker Davy Rothbart & his subject Cheryl Sanford of the documentary film "17 Blocks," and music from Andrew Bird & Jimbo Mathus
In celebration of Black History Month, this episode features poet Kevin Young, groundbreaking Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, writer and historian Clyde W. Ford, and music from Amythyst Kiah
This episode features hip hop artist and activist Talib Kweli, celebrated writer George Saunders, and music from singer-songwriter Jillette Johnson
This episode features comedian Naomi Ekperigin, Poet Laureate of Oregon Anis Mojgani, and music from The War and Treaty
This episode features actor and author David Duchovny, jump rope world champions Nick & Kaylee Woodard, and music from Jensen McRae
This episode features podcaster and grief expert Nora McInerny, writer Jon Mooallem, and music from Jeff Tweedy.
This episode features actor Connor Ratliff of the podcast Dead Eyes, plus neuroscientist Dr. Carl Hart, and music from Ani DiFranco
This episode features writer Dani Shapiro, comedian Chris Garcia, and music from indie-rock band Casey Neill & The Norway Rats
This episode features Roman Mars & Kurt Kohlstedt from the 99% Invisible podcast, plus poet and essayist Shayla Lawson, and music from Colin Hay
This New Year's special episode features gonzo journalist Shaughnessy Bishop-Stall, founder of "Unlikely Hikers" Jenny Bruso, and music from blues performer LaRhonda Steele
This "Best of 2020" holiday episode features masters of improv Thomas Middleditch & Ben Schwartz, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka, and music from singer-songwriter Amythyst Kiah
This episode features comedian Ian Karmel, radio host Al Letson, writer and satirist Caitlin Kunkel, and music from singer-songwriter Laura Gibson
This episode features writer Ijeoma Oluo, historian and contributor at The New Yorker Jill Lepore, and music from indie folk duo The Bengsons
This episode features comedian, writer, and illustrator Abbi Jacobson ("Broad City"), author Nicole Chung, and music from soul group The Dip
This episode features entertainer and writer Rachel Bloom, poet Natalie Diaz, and music from singer-songwriter Kevin Morby
This episode features comedian Phoebe Robinson, writer and amateur boxer Thomas Page McBee, and music from folk singer Sammy Brue
This episode features New York Times opinion writer and bestselling author Lindy West, documentary filmmaker Kirsten Johnson, and music from cellist and folk singer Leyla McCalla
This "election special" episode features journalist and activist Jose Antonio Vargas, poet Danez Smith, and singer-songwriter Angelica Garcia
This episode gets into the spooky season with "Mucho Mucho Amor" filmmakers Cristina Costantini & Kareem Tabsch, plus singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, the creator of the Tony Award-winning folk opera "Hadestown"
This episode learns the art of "letting go" with poet Tommy Pico, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eli Saslow, and comedian Emily Heller, with music from The Helio Sequence
This episode features Radiolab co-host Lulu Miller, comedian and writer Sopan Deb, and music from Moorea Masa & The Mood
This episode makes some "great escapes" with writer and former sideshow performer Tessa Fontaine, memoirist and visa lottery winner Abdi Nor Iftin, comedian Moses Storm, and music from Laura Veirs
This episode features comedian Demi Adejuyigbe, journalist Drew Magary, and music from soulful duo The War and Treaty
This episode features Chapman & MacLain Way, the filmmakers behind Netflix's "Wild Wild Country" docuseries, as well as comedian Ahmed Bharoocha, bee activist Raley Schweinfurth, and music from Ron Artis II & The Truth
This episode features poet and cultural critic Hanif Abdurraqib, writer Eula Biss, and music from Lydia Loveless
This episode features Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Timothy Egan, cannabis activist Jeannette Ward Horton, and music from indie pop duo Pure Bathing Culture
This episode features comedians Maria Bamford and Nore Davis, plus music from country singer-songwriter Brandy Clark
This episode features the voice of NPR’s underwriting, Chioke I’Anson, plus podcaster and investigative journalist Leah Sottile, and a tribute to late singer-songwriter Justin Townes Earle
This episode features comedian and host of CNN's "United Shades of America" W. Kamau Bell, plus science reporter Julia Rosen, and music from Samantha Crain
This episode is features humorist John Hodgman, writer and podcaster Jon Mooallem, and music from Allen Stone
This episode features comedian Hari Kondabolu, science journalist Sarah Scoles, and music from Angelica Garcia
This episode feature author Jami Attenberg, podcaster James Kim, and music from Federale
This episode features writer Lidia Yuknavitch, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka, and rock group The Black Tones.
Ross Gay, Casey Cep, and Colin Hay
James Veitch, Allison Breed, and Chasity Brown
Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share their honored summer traditions; comedians Thomas Middleditch and Ben Schwartz discuss the secrets behind creating their long-form improv comedy series; and Americana singer-songwriter Shakey Graves chats about the genesis of his trademark “suitcase drum," before performing his song "Dining Alone."
"Live Wire House Party" with Ijeoma Oluo, Danez Smith, and Amythyst Kiah
"Live Wire House Party" with Daniel M. Ortberg, Michael Arceneaux, and Prom Queen
"Live Wire House Party" with Clint Smith, Waxahatchee, and a Tribute to Lynn Shelton
"Live Wire House Party" with François Clemmons and Joey Clift
"Live Wire House Party" with Luke & Elena’s Moms, Barry Sonnenfeld, and Fantastic Negrito
"Live Wire House Party" with Cameron Esposito, Claude Taylor, and The Lone Bellow
"Live Wire House Party" with Samantha Irby, Francis Lam, and Mandy Moore
"Live Wire House Party" with Paula Poundstone, Deanna Everson, and The Head and The Heart
"Live Wire House Party" with Nora McInerny, Saeed Jones, and Jeff Tweedy
"Live Wire House Party" with Shea Serrano, Brooks Wheelan, Nick Turner, and Jimmie Herrod
"Live Wire House Party" with Cheryl Strayed, Jon Mooallem, and Miniature Tigers
"Mic Check" with Emily Flake, Eileen Myles, and Giant in the Trees
"Leap of Faith" with Timothy Egan, Adam Pasi, Jeanette Ward Horton, and Pure Bathing Culture
"Voice of Reason" with Chioke l’Anson, Leah Sottile, and Joseph
"Flights of Fancy" with John Hodgman, Jon Mooallem, and Allen Stone
"All in the Family" with Jami Attenberg, James Kim, Bonnie Morales, and Federale
"In Our Feelings" with Mo Rocca, Heather Christle, and Jimmie Herrod
"Larger Than Life" with Saeed Jones, Kristen Arnett, and Ages and Ages
"Truth Be Told" with Tim O'Brien, Mira Jacob, and Edna Vazquez
"Drawing the Line" with Emily Flake, Dave Hill, and Giants in the Trees
"Love Language" with Irene Taylor Brodsky, Matthew Zapruder, and Bodies on the Beach
"No Place Like Home" with Dina Nayeri, Adam Mansbach, Shain Brenden, and LaRhonda Steele
"Leaving A Legacy" with Megan Phelps-Roper, Joe Kwaczala, Xiomara Torres, and Chastity Brown
"Social Studies" with Chuck Klosterman, Tiffany Midge, and Tacocat
"Origin Stories" with Rhys Darby, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Ahamefule J. Oluo, and Cataldo
"The Last Laugh" with Josh Gondelman, Clyde W. Ford, Alex Borsuk & Kaytlyn Gerbin, and The Lowest Pair
"Poetic License" with Pete Holmes, Franny Choi, and Pink Martini
Courtenay Hameister (Short)
"Milestones" with Lindy West, Dave Hill, and Pink Martini
"Other Worlds" with W. Kamau Bell, Karen Russell, and Kishi Bashi
"Finding Your Voice" with Paul F. Tompkins, Anuradha Bhagwati, and Patterson Hood
"Wild Cards" with Eula Scott Bynoe & Jeannie Yandel, Kurt Braunohler, Lara Prior-Palmer, and Lavender Country
"Getting to the Point" with Michael Ian Black, Melissa Febos, Ibtihaj Muhammad, and Dirty Revival
"Figure of Speech" with Mary Norris, Ryan O'Connell, Jackie Kashian, and The Get Ahead
"Not Too Distant Future" with Senator Jeff Merkley, Anis Mojgani, Joe Zimmerman, Afrovivalist, and Ron Artis II & The Truth
"Balancing Acts" with Pam Houston, Naomi Ekperigin, Nadya Okamoto, and Shook Twins
"Real Talk" with Mitchell S. Jackson, Lori Gottlieb, Mohanad Elshieky, and Revel in Dimes
Elena Passarello (Short)
"Ice Breakers" with Colin O'Brady, Dani Shapiro, Chris Garcia, and Casey Neill & The Norway Rats
"Going Rogue" with Geraldine DeRuiter, Matteo Lane, Makini Howell, and Valley Maker
"Buggin' Out" Hanif Abdurraqib, Nora McInerny, Nore Davis, and Alela Diane
"All-Stars" with Luis Alberto Urrea, Eileen Myles, and Moshow The Cat Rapper
"Living the Dream" with Ian Karmel, Al Letson, Caitlin Kunkel, and Laura Gibson
"The Morning After" with Dan Savage, Shaughnessy Bishop-Stall, Frangela, and Meklit
"Hand-Me-Downs" with John Hodgman, RJ Young, Fabi Reyna, and Sávila
"Character Building" with Lauren Groff, Tommy Orange, Caitlin Weierhauser, and Lucy Kaplansky
"Hitting the Road" with Abbi Jacobson, Nicole Chung, Peter Sagal, and The Dip
"Paying Your Dues" with Phoebe Robinson, Thomas Page McBee, Lainey Morse, and Sammy Brue
"Letting Go" with Tommy Pico, Emily Heller, Eli Saslow, and The Helio Sequence
"Facing Your Fears" with Jose Antonio Vargas, Courtenay Hameister, Marcella Arguello, and Planes on Paper
"Fresh Starts" with Gary Shteyngart, Hari Kondabolu, Maxine McCormick, and Lenore
"Facing the Music" with Charley Crockett, Roger Reeves, and La Barbecue's LeAnn Mueller & Alison Clem
Caitlin Doughty (Short)
Kevin Young (Short)
A humorist, novelist, and television writer, Rich talks with Luke about his youthful appearance making him "seem like a pretty clever 14-year-old," which leads to the longest awkward pause in Live Wire history. As a bonus treat, humorous segments from Rich's books are performed by Faces For Radio Theater.
Barbara Ehrenreich (Short)
Tessa Fontaine, Moses Storm, Abdi Nor Iftin, and Laura Veirs
Mike Pesca, Anya Yurchyshyn, Robby Slowik, Lindsey Murphy, and Prom Queen
Paul F. Tompkins, Ijeoma Oluo, and Open Mike Eagle
Episode #363: Hanif Abdurraqib, Beth Stelling, Dr. Mary Zelinski, and John Craigie
Episode #362: Matt Young, Katie Nguyen, Brandi Tuck, and Tomo Nakayama
Episode #361: Chapman & Maclain Way, Mary Pilon, Ahmed Bharoocha, Raley Schweinfurth, and Ron Artis II & The Truth
Episode #360: Lindy West, Sarah Gertrude Shapiro, Alex Falcone, Stephen Green, and Moorea Masa & The Mood
Episode #359: Laurie Kilmartin, Gaby Dunn, and Chris Staples
Episode #358: Terese Marie Mailhot, Jason Traeger, Sophie Egan and Reggie Houston
Episode #357: George Saunders, Jay Larson, Jenny Bruso, and Horse Feathers
"On the Contrary" with Andy Kindler, Rico Gagliano, Brendan Francis Newnam, Lidia Yuknavitch, and Ural Thomas & the Pain
Say goodbye to 2017 with the Live Wire Time Capsule Throw Down! Recorded at Seattle’s Neptune Theatre, host Luke Burbank plays a game with guests John Roderick and Ken Jennings in which they attempt to encapsulate this past year in all its strangeness.
"Word on the Street" with Ken Jennings, John Roderick, Anastacia-Renée, Emmy Favilla, and Laura Gibson
"Cautionary Tales" with Welcome to Night Vale's Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor, Danez Smith, Edan Lepucki, and Chad VanGaalen
"Leftovers" with Glynn Washington, Elna Baker, Baratunde Thurston, Ariel Levy, and John Craigie
“Brave New World” with Adam Gopnik, Elena Passarello, and Blossom
"The Truth Hurts" with Cheryl Strayed, Baratunde Thurston and Meklit
"Game On" with Max Temkin, Kevin Coval, Adam Burke, and Malcolm London
"Hidden Talent" with Lynn Shelton, Thanh Tan, Kevin Avery, and Makana
"Tell It Like It Is" with Loudon Wainwright III, Bruce Campbell, and Karinda Dobbins
"Lampedusa" with Emmylou Harris, Dave Matthews, Patty Griffin, Steve Earle, and Brandi Carlile
"West of Ordinary" with Picabo Street, Mark Sundeen, Scott Carrier, and Sammy Brue
Author Salman Rushdie reveals the Queen’s go-to icebreaker for talking to authors, comedian Joe Kwaczala questions the singing training of Catholic priests, showrunner Shadi Petosky describes how she’s working to increase queer representation in children’s media, and Death Cab for Cutie sideman Dave Depper takes the spotlight.
"(Not So) Small Talk" with Chuck Klosterman, Shawn Wen, and Justin Townes Earle
"Making it Work" with Erik Weihenmayer, Leila Janah, Mohanad Elshieky, Walter Martin, Jason Isbell, and Amanda Shires
A listen back to Cameron Esposito's 2014 appearance on Live Wire, including her attempt to update Luke's lesbian cultural references and her completely original pronunciation for "guacamole."
Another episode from our archives: Luke and writer Sherman Alexie discuss kicking Philip Roth's literary ass, thinking beyond the reservation, and the particular challenge of being jealous of your kids.
This week we dig into our archives to bring you Luke's first ever appearance on Live Wire...where he reflects on a less than stellar interview from earlier in his career.
"Freedom" with Amanda Knox, Justin Simien, and Shakey Graves
Ron Funches details finding his comedic voice and what it takes to make his mother proud, author Walter Kirn reveals how even a trained journalist could fall into a serial killer’s elaborate con as an imposter Rockefeller, and The Secret Sisters delight with a harmonic folk earworm.
Comedian Hari Kondabolu questions the devil’s need for advocates, journalist and author Faith Salie admits that being an approval junkie is particularly challenging when releasing a book on that topic, and looping violinist Joe Kye creates a complex and beautiful soundscape.
"Cut the Crap" with Stephen Tobolowsky, Ariel Levy, The Minimalists, and Haley Heynderickx
"Off the Beaten Path" with James Lavadour, Jim Brunberg (of Roam Schooled), June Colony, and Rodney Bonifer
In this special spring membership drive edition of Live Wire, we look behind the scenes at Fox’s animated TV sitcom Bob’s Burgers with actor Kristin Schaal and writer/producer Scott Jacobson. Plus original songs from the show featuring Laura Gibson and John Roderick!
Support Live Wire today: livewire.ejoinme.org/spring2017
"The Lowdown" with Glynn Washington, Kelly McEvers, and Bilal
"Against the Grain" with Jessi Klein, Dan Savage, Attorney General Bob Ferguson, and Ayron Jones
"Own Worst Enemy" with Dan Harmon, Lauren Weedman, Anis Mojgani, and Eric D. Johnson of Fruit Bats
"Breaking Through" with Sasheer Zamata, Ayelet Waldman, Alonzo Bodden, and Craig Finn
"Going Your Own Way" with Hannah Hart, Mara Wilson, Jim Norton, and John Craigie
Journalist Matt Taibbi recounts the years leading up to our current post-factual predicament, graphic novelist Thi Bui recalls her family's harrowing escape from South Vietnam, comedian El Sanchez deconstructs the gender binary, and musical act Hibou provides a synth-soaked nostalgia-inducing soundtrack.
Comedian Horatio Sanz recounts his days at SNL and the roll of comedy in political journalism, comedian Aparna Nancherla teaches us how to turn anxiety into comedy gold, the owners of Portland’s cat cafe explain the benefits of purr therapy, and Kyle Craft warns of the dangers of walls.
"Full Disclosure" with Elna Baker, Brooks Wheelan, Zahir Janmohamed, and Thundercat
An update from author, attorney, and rapper Gyasi Ross about what's going on at the Standing Rock Indian Reservation and why he believes it's an amazing time to be alive.
"Facing Your Demons" with Maria Semple, Misha Collins, Gyasi Ross, and Telekinesis
Performer Reggie Watts talks improvisation and composes a ringtone for us, chef Rick Bayless discusses the merits of eyeball tacos, and journalist Jenn White reveals why Oprah's legacy continues to resonate.
"Local Flavor" with Earl Blumenauer, Naomi Pomeroy, Darcelle, Mohanad Elshieky, and My Bubba
Sherman Alexie discusses how his father's death inspired him to write a children's book, Garrard Conley recounts his journey through gay conversion therapy and how it impacted his relationship with his parents, and Shovels & Rope harvest their family's experiences into a rollicking hootenanny.
"Rolling the Dice" with Lindy West, Jonathan Lethem, Emma Straub, and Blitzen Trapper
"Unconventional Wisdom" with Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Baratunde Thurston, Roopa Vasudevan, and Mike Yung
"Here We Are" with Chris Hayes, Jonathan Safran Foer, Michelle Buteau, and Kadhja Bonet
"Seriously Funny" with Phoebe Robinson, Bill Oakley, Dr. Brian Druker, and Blind Pilot
Comedian Nicole Byer professes her deep love for her therapist, Dr. Embriette Hyde explores the mysterious workings of our guts, NBA legend Terry Porter recalls overcoming his own doubt as an athletic late bloomer, and David Bazan's music resurfaces all those feelings we were trying to forget.
"The Invisible World" with Penn Jillette, Justin Schmidt, and Ted Ramirez
"Going the Distance" with Bruce Campbell, Colin O'Brady, Shannon Balcom, and Farnell Newton & The Othership Connection
"Homecoming" with Paul F. Tompkins, Heben Nigatu, Matthew Inman, and Pete Bernhard of The Devil Makes Three
In a special Labor Day episode, comedian Mike Birbiglia chats about his latest film as well as his evolving definition of success, former NFL quarterback Joey Harrington discusses whether he’ll allow his sons to play football, and the band Joseph demonstrates how to achieve harmony between siblings.
"The Art and Science of Being a Lady" with Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce and Alialujah Choir
Luke quits Facebook and darkness falls, Community creator Dan Harmon opens up about booze and NBC, comic Jackie Kashian explains why Native Americans may not be over the whole "stealing their country" thing and indie superband Eyelids rocks it.
Top Chef Boston finalists Gregory Gourdet and Doug Adams judge the first-ever Live Wire Bottom Chef competition, astrophysicist Sara Seager fills us in on the heated discussions behind naming planets, and Loch Lomond fill the hall with beautiful harmonies.
"Known Unknowns" with Nicholas Kristof, Mike Pesca and Bill Frisell
"Hindsight" with Sebastian Junger, Natasha Leggero, Moshe Kasher, Claire Mulaney, and La Luz
Mandolinist Chris Thile discusses what excites him about his new gig as host of A Prairie Home Companion, comedian Dave Hill recounts what it was like writing ringtones for Donald Trump, and The Wild Reeds dazzle us with their astounding harmonies.
Comedian Paul Gilmartin discusses how his podcast helps erase the stigma around mental illness, Neal Bascomb recounts a courageous group of Norwegians that stopped the Nazis from obtaining the atomic bomb, and Open Mike Eagle reveals what “the Kurt Vonnegut of rap” sounds like (spoiler alert: pretty awesome).
Peggy Orenstein discusses how young women struggle to achieve “intimate justice” in their sex lives, professor D. Watkins recounts the path that took him from selling drugs in East Baltimore to his life as a published author, and Walter Martin charms us with his musical musings.
Sarah Vowell challenges Luke's public radio references, writer Chris Offutt examine's his father's secret profession, Sam Outlaw's sings about heading home again, and the Live Wire Lovebirds face-off in "The Cohabitation Examination."
Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist Jack Ohman talks about the most amazing moment of his career, poet Kevin Young reads from his latest collection, Minnesota Public Radio music host Andrea Swensson reminisces about the time Prince asked her to dance, and The von Trapps musically bid us adieu.
"How on Earth?" with Gerrit Vyn, Nicole Apelian, Anis Mojgani and Fruition
"Uh Oh" with Paolo Bacigalupi, Ijeoma Oluo, Sallie Tisdale and Liz Vice
"Tight Five" with Eliza Skinner, Bri Pruett, Alex Falcone, Anthony Lopez and Ayron Jones
"Rebel Rebel" with Paul F. Tompkins, Timothy Egan and Patterson Hood
"Just Visiting" with Tom Bodett, Betsy Hodges, Chris Coleman, Fancy Ray and The Jayhawks
"Bonus: The Jayhawks"
Author Rebecca Traister explores the rising power of unmarried women, historian Ruth Goodman reveals what living like a Tudor can teach us about modern life, and musical artist The Last Artful, Dodgr does Portland’s hip hop community proud.
Writer and comedian Jen Kirkman recounts a horrific blind date in Sweden, filmmaker Lance Bangs imagines an elaborate Burning Man prank, and Hey Marseilles provide the soundtrack.
Sarah Vowell challenges Luke's public radio references, writer Chris Offutt examine's his father's secret profession, Sam Outlaw's sings about heading home again, and the Live Wire Lovebirds face-off in "The Cohabitation Examination."
Stephen Tobolowsky recalls getting held up at gunpoint while browsing for mangoes, MLB umpire Dale Scott talks about coming out as gay in the world of baseball, and Jewish reggae icon Matisyahu attempts to teach Luke how to beatbox.
"Diving In" with Aasif Mandvi, Wallace J. Nichols and Joseph
"The Long Haul" with Rinker Buck, Bri Pruett and Christopher Paul Stelling
"For the Record" with Cheryl Strayed, Anis Mojgani, Jenn Nelson and LOLO
"Back to Basics" with Ruth Reichl, Jackie Kashian and Van Dyke Parks
"All in the Family" with Maya Forbes, China Forbes, Dusty Ramone and Blitzen Trapper
"Going Viral" with W. Kamau Bell, Emily St. John Mandel and Soft Sleep
Comic Kristina Wong fills Luke in on the virtues of live-streaming a first date, Mark Bitterman explains what bitters can do for your holiday cocktails, comic Sean Jordan offers up the sickest burn to his dad ever, and Esmé Patterson's lilting voice warms up your winter.
Wait Wait Don't Tell Me's Tom Bodett offers up the key to a happy, sober life (not hanging out with drunk jackasses plays a role), Scott Poole waxes poetic about corn dogs, Head Writer Courtenay Hameister says farewell, and Box Set offers up stunning harmonies.
Ep. 300: "Who Am I to Judge?" with John Hodgman, Prescott Harvey and The Doubleclicks
Ep. 299: "True Stories" with Irene Taylor Brodsky, Meghan Daum and David Wax Museum
Luke gets "Crash Test" comics Paul Scheer and Rob Huebel to open up about asking for George Clooney's phone number and things they couldn't say on the Paramount set, standup comic Emily Heller plays hits from the radio station in her head, while singer/songwriter Matt Morris does the same.
Ep. 297: "Without a Net" with David Wain, Alex Honnold and Tacocat
Ep. 296: "Changing Lanes" with Jesse Eisenberg, Sloane Crosley and Laura Gibson
Ep. 295: "Timing is Everything" with Heidi Julavits, John Irving, Diana Nyad and Israel Nebeker
Ep. 294: "Diving In" with Aasif Mandvi, Wallace J. Nichols and Joseph
Ep. 293: "The Long Haul" with Rinker Buck, Bri Pruett and Christopher Paul Stelling
Ep. 292: "For the Record" with Cheryl Strayed, Anis Mojgani, Jenn Nelson and LOLO
Ep. 291: "Back to Basics" with Ruth Reichl, Jackie Kashian and Van Dyke Parks
Ep. 290: "All in the Family" with Maya Forbes, China Forbes, Dusty Ramone and Blitzen Trapper
Ep. 289: "Going Viral" with W. Kamau Bell, Emily St. John Mandel and Soft Sleep
Ep. 288: "Tough Calls" with Lizz Winstead, Timothy Egan, Alex Edelman and Hey Marseilles new
Ep. 287: "JK" with Sean Patton, Ijeoma Oluo and Brothers from Another
In a show all about the unexpected, Neko Case tells Luke who she'd want at her rock 'n' roll intervention, Ask Me Another host Ophira Eisenberg reveals how a really nice dinner can get you pregnant, and the "gypsy-tinged" trio Devotchka rocks out on the theramin.
Ep. 283 Encore: "Playing the Part" with Maria Bello, Baron Vaughn & Prom Queen
Ep. 282 Encore: "Dark Matters" with Janeane Garofalo, Chuck Palahniuk & Helio Sequence
Ep. 281 Encore: "Square Pegs" with Dan Harmon, Jackie Kashian & Eyelids
Ep. 280 Encore: "Drawn Together" with Andy Richter, Bill Plympton, Ken Jennings & Kyle Morton
Ep. 279 Encore: "Going Gonzo" with Jon Ronson, Mac McClelland, Jed Arkley and Katie Watkins & Ivan and Alyosha
Ep. 278 Encore: "Coming Clean" with David Bronner, Will Hines & Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires
Ep. 277 Encore: "Stories to Tell" with MK Asante, Mindy Nettifee & Mighty Oaks
Ep. 275 Encore: "Let's Be Frank" with Barney Frank, Aparna Nancherla & Joe Pug
Ep. 274 Encore: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan
Ep. 285: "Indie-pendence" with Cameron Esposito, Wil Wheaton, Bill Plympton & Melissa Etheridge
Ep. 273 Encore: "The Sky's The Limit" with Gregory Gourdet & Doug Adams, Sara Seager & Loch Lomond
Ep. 272 Encore: "Gaming the System" with Daniel Handler, Mary Pilon & Lucky Peterson
Ep. 284: "Unmentionables" with Amy Dickinson, Anna Sale & Sean Rowe
Ep. 283: "Playing the Part" with Maria Bello, Baron Vaughn & Prom Queen
Ep. 282: "Dark Matters" with Janeane Garofalo, Chuck Palahniuk & Helio Sequence
Ep. 271 Encore: "You Think You're So Smart" with Martin Starr, David Shields & Caleb Powell & Martin Sexton
Ep. 281: "Square Pegs" with Dan Harmon, Jackie Kashian & Eyelids
Ep. 280: "Drawn Together" with Andy Richter, Bill Plympton, Ken Jennings & Kyle Morton
Ep. 279: "Going Gonzo" with Jon Ronson, Mac McClelland, Jed Arkley and Katie Watkins & Ivan and Alyosha
Ep. 278: "Coming Clean" with David Bronner, Will Hines & Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires
Ep. 277: "Stories to Tell" with MK Asante, Mindy Nettifee & Mighty Oaks
Ep. 276: "Risky Business" with Ian Karmel, Kevin Allison & Houndstooth
Ep. 275: "Let's Be Frank" with Barney Frank, Aparna Nancherla & Joe Pug
Ep. 274: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan
Ep. 274: "Get Off My Lawn" with Peter Mehlman, Adam Craven, Bobby Cleveland & Aan
Ep. 273: "The Sky's The Limit" with Gregory Gourdet & Doug Adams, Sara Seager & Loch Lomond
Ep. 272: "Gaming the System" with Daniel Handler, Mary Pilon & Lucky Peterson
Ep. 271: "You Think You're So Smart" with Martin Starr, David Shields & Caleb Powell & Martin Sexton
Ep. 270: "The Grown Up Table" with Kelly Williams Brown, Ahamefule Oluo & Lost Lander
Live Wire 250: Wendi McLendon-Covey, Ken Jennings, Ages and Ages
Ep. 269: "Committed" with Maz Jobrani, Sarah Koenig, Lindy West & Edna Vazquez
Ep. 268: "Love Wire" with Valentine's Day Special - Derrick Brown, Cheryl Strayed, Steve Almond, Laura Gibson & Dolorean
Live Wire 264 Encore: Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce, Alialujah Choir
Episode 116
Episode 186
Episode 185
Episode 163
Episode 164
Episode 157 Encore
Episode 168
Episode 160 Encore
Episode 175
Episode 161 Encore
Episode 177
Episode 160
Episode 176
Episode 180
Episode 162 Encore
Episode 158 Encore
Episode 162
Episode 139 Encore
Episode 183
Episode 167
Episode 161
Episode 170
Episode 179
Episode 178
Episode 184
Episode 169
Episode 166
Episode 172
Episode 164 Encore
Episode 171
Episode 165
Episode 195 Encore
Episode 154 Encore
Episode 126 Encore
Episode 136 Encore
Episode 143 Encore
Episode 159
Episode 131 Encore
Episode 148 Encore
Episode 133 Encore
Episode 144 Encore
Episode 123 Encore
Episode 145 Encore
Episode 158
Episode 157
Episode 129 Encore
Episode 144
Episode 147
Episode 149
Episode 148
Episode 143
Episode 140
Episode 151
Episode 154
Episode 153
Episode 138
Episode 142
Episode 139
Episode 137
Episode 152
Episode 137 Encore
Episode 156
Episode 141
Episode 155
Episode 134
Episode 136
Episode 135
Episode 124 Encore
Episode 146
Episode 150
Episode 145
Episode 132
Episode 123
Episode 124
Episode 125
Episode 117
Episode 122
Episode 120
Episode 131
Episode 129
Episode 126
Episode 128
Episode 118
Episode 127
Episode 130
Episode 119
Episode 121
Episode 133
Episode 201 Encore
Episode 206
Episode 207
Episode 196 Encore
Episode 198 Encore
Episode 209
Episode 208
Podcast Extra: Bobs Burgers Uncut Complete Interview With Unaired 3rd Song
Episode 217
Episode 215
Episode 216
Episode 217 Encore
Episode 219 Encore
Episode 211
Episode 212
Episode 214 Encore
Episode 213 Encore
Episode 214
Episode 210
Episode 213
Episode 218 Encore
Episode 215 Encore
Episode 220 Encore
Episode 218
Live Wire 224: James McBride, Davy Rothbart, musical guests Wild Ones
Live Wire 227: Molly Crabapple, Christina Tosi, Jonathan Coulton
Live Wire 229: A.M. Homes, Kevin Barry, Michael Hearst
Episode 221 Encore
Live Wire 228: TC Boyle, Ian Doescher, MK Asante, Tanya Donelly
Episode 209 Encore
Live Wire 226: Todd Barry, Earl Blumenauer, Ramona Falls
Episode 216 Encore
Live Wire! 222: Think Differently Special - Stephen Tobolowsky, Susan Cain, David Rakoff, Temple Grandin and Alfredo Rodriguez
Live Wire 230: Greg Sestero, William Todd Schultz, Twin Forks
Live Wire 223: Monsters of Public Radio Special - Ira Glass, Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Garrison Keillor, Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside
Live Wire 233: Laura Veirs, David Nadelberg/Neil Katcher, Adam Selzer
Episode 212 Encore
Live Wire 238: Dana Gould, Lindy West, and Blitzen Trapper
Live Wire 236: David Folkenflik, April Richardson, Shelby Earl
Live Wire 225: Lynn Shelton, Stacy Bolt, musical guests Thao and the Get Down Stay Down
Live Wire! 219: Marc Maron, Monica Drake, musical guests Natasha Kmeto, The Doubleclicks
Episode 227 Encore
Live Wire 220: Kristen Schaal and Scott Jacobson, Lisa Hanawalt, Courtenay Hameister, musical guests Laura Gibson and John Roderick
Live Wire 221: Jen Kirkman, Dan Savage, The Builders and the Butchers
Live Wire 235: Thanksgiving Special with Simon Singh, Samantha Hess, Augusten Burroughs, Cheryl Strayed, Holcombe Waller, Year Afar
Episode 225 Encore
Live Wire 234: Portugal.The Man, Steve Young, Sarah Mirk
Episode 223 Encore: Monsters of Public Radio Special - Ira Glass, Jad Abumrad, Robert Krulwich, Garrison Keillor, Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside
Live Wire 232: Peter Bagge, Karen Karbo, Old Light
Episode 231 Encore
Live Wire 231: Brian Michael Bendis, John Gorham, 1939 Ensemble
Live Wire 237: Stephen Tobolowsky, Storm Large, Rodney Hicks, Ophira Eisenberg
Episode 228 Encore
Podcast Extra: Daniel Stern sings an original composition
Podcast Extra: Reggie Watts Interview
Episode 230 Encore
Podcast Extra: John Wesley Harding and The Faces For Radio Theater
Podcast Extra: Storm's Catchy Tune
Episode 193 Encore
Podcast Extra: The Living Room Sessions
Episode 181
Episode 229 Encore
Episode 195
Episode 191 Encore
Episode 236 Encore
Episode 174
Episode 200
Episode 203
Episode 204
Episode 189
Episode 128 Encore
Episode 173 Studio Sessions Compilation
Episode 198
Episode 190
Episode 193
Episode 194
Episode 197
Episode 191
Episode 202
Episode 196
Episode 205
Episode 168 Encore
Episode 201
Episode 174 Encore
Episode 192 Studio Sessions Compilation
Episode 190 Encore
Episode 199
Episode 181 Encore
Episode 179 Encore
Episode 182
Episode 188
Episode 177 Encore
Episode 176 Encore
Episode 183 Encore
Episode 175 Encore
Episode 156 Encore
Episode 185 Encore
Episode 178 Encore
Episode 182 Encore
Episode 187
Episode 167 Encore
Ep. 259: "The Hard Way" with Steve Almond, Georgina Hayns & Horse Feathers
Live Wire 257 Encore: Peter Sagal, Chelsea Cain, Eef Barzelay
Live Wire 258 Encore: Nicholas Kristof, Mike Pesca, Bill Frisell
Ep. 258: "Known Unknowns" with Nicholas Kristof, Mike Pesca & Bill Frisell
Ep. 264: "Art and Science of Being a Lady" with Megan Amram, Joanna Lynne Ponce & Alialujah Choir
Live Wire 265 Encore: Hari Kondabolu, Cristin O'Keefe Aptowicz, Deep Sea Diver
Ep. 263: "Power of Two" with Joshua Wolf Shenk, Anis Mojgani & Fernando
Ep. 257: "Getting Even" with Peter Sagal, Chelsea Cain & Eef Barzelay
Ep. 260: "Such Great Heights" with Robin Lopez, Derrick Brown & Hook & Anchor
Ep. 256: "Taste" with Beth Federici & Kathleen Squires, Ben Jacobsen & Little Freddie King
Ep. 261: "Get Smart" with Dan Savage, Shane Torres & Modern Kin
Ep. 267: "It's Funny Because It's True" with Kurt Braunohler, Mike Sacks & Liz Vice
Ep. 266: "My Big Break" with Cheryl Strayed, Justin Simien & Magic Mouth
Live Wire 243 Encore: Sherman Alexie, W. Kamau Bell, Run on Sentence
Ep. 262: "Devil is in the Details" with Dan Pashman, Dee Williams & Tomo Nakayama
George Saunders and Samantha Crain (REBROADCAST)
January 2, 202651min 14sec
Award-winning author George Saunders (Lincoln in the Bardo) unpacks his writing process and explains how creating confusion often leads to interesting literary worlds; and singer-songwriter Samantha Crain discusses the importance of making music in her Choctaw language, before performing "Joey" from her album A Small Death.