The Sam Sanders Show

Sam Sanders talks with comedian and actor Ronny Chieng to discuss his journey in American comedy, his role in Hulu’s Interior Chinatown, and the complex relationship between identity and humor in Hollywood. As they delve into the highs and lows of political satire, Ronny shares his unique global perspective, shaped by years spent across multiple countries. The conversation covers the evolution of comedy in the face of today’s divisive politics, the impact of Asian representation in media, and the challenges—and freedoms—of creating authentic stories that resonate. With humor and insight, Ronny explains why he still believes in the power of American comedy – and even America itself – in these turbulent times.  Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.

In this episode, we dive into the biggest tech stories of 2024, exploring how technology reshaped culture in surprising ways. From Hollywood to social media, AI is transforming creative industries, while TikTok continues redefining what it means to be an influencer. We also discuss Elon Musk’s impact on online communication and why social media feels less fun than it used to. Joining the conversation is tech journalist Elise Hu, host of TED Talks Daily and Taylor Lorenz, author of "Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet." Together, they unpack the year’s most significant tech developments, debate whether the AI hype is worth it, and ponder the future of platforms that shape our lives. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

This week on the show, Sam sits down with Brian Jordan Alvarez and Stephanie Koenig, the creative forces behind the new hit show English Teacher. Created by Alvarez, the show features both him and Koenig as high school teachers in Texas, with each of them also taking on writing roles. But this isn’t your typical sitcom. With razor-sharp writing, English Teacher dives into big topics—guns, drag queens, and queer identity—all with a subversive, hilarious twist. The pair also share their journey from creating indie comedy videos online to finally breaking through in Hollywood.  Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

Comedian Roy Wood Jr. joins Sam to discuss why he believes comedy is a form of journalism and how humor can help us cope with today’s political chaos. Roy reflects on his time at The Daily Show, his experience hosting CNN’s Have I Got News For You, and the challenge of finding laughter amidst absurdity. Plus, they play a game inspired by Roy’s new show. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

Sam sits down with author and marine biologist Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson to explore her inspiring new book, What If We Get It Right?: Visions of Climate Futures. Dr. Johnson offers a refreshing take on the climate crisis, imagining a future shaped by Hollywood, pop culture, poetry, and joy. Together, they discuss how creativity and optimism can help us reframe environmental challenges and inspire collective action.   Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.   The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

Monét X Change, RuPaul’s Drag Race alum, opera singer, and co-host of Sibling Rivalry, joins The Sam Sanders Show to discuss her journey from church kid to drag queen and how it still influences her work. She talks about DRAG PAC, her political action committee fighting for drag and trans rights, and her new foray into performing R&B. Plus, she plays "I-CON or I-CAN’T" on some pop culture hot topics.   Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.   The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

We launched two episodes today! Don’t miss our episode with Joel Kim Booster, also in your feed. Sasheer Zamata stops by to chat about her role in the hit Disney+ series "Agatha All Along," queerness in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and how her time working at Disney parks shaped her career. She also sticks around to dive into some unexpected topics: artificial intelligence, the band Oasis, and... WHIPPETS!   Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter (KCRW.com/SamSanders) to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.   The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

Joel Kim Booster dives into the wardrobe choices on "Loot," his on-screen chemistry with Maya Rudolph, and how the show tackles real-world issues like the unhoused crisis. He also talks about the portrayal of wealth on television and his discomfort with glamorizing billionaires.   Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter (KCRW.com/SamSanders) to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.   The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.  

The Sam Sanders Show is out now.