DiscoverFail Better with David DuchovnyCheck it Out: Ira Glass on Three Decades of ‘This American Life’ Magic
Check it Out: Ira Glass on Three Decades of ‘This American Life’ Magic

Check it Out: Ira Glass on Three Decades of ‘This American Life’ Magic

Update: 2025-05-27
Share

Description

Hey, everyone. Today I wanted to share a special conversation from another Lemonada show: Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso.

For those who aren’t already familiar with this great podcast, the show started all the way back in 2016 and airs every Sunday. The episode you’re about to hear is a recent one. It’s a great talk between Sam and the broadcast legend Ira Glass, from May 2025.


Thirty years. Over 850 episodes. Nine Peabodys. One Pulitzer. And yet somehow, three decades in, This American Life (and its creator, Ira Glass) remains as innovative and timely as ever.

We begin with a week in the life of Ira: a typical Monday at This American Life, the rigorous notes process, and how the team selects the stories it wants to tell that Sunday. Then, we unpack Trump’s ongoing threats to slash government funding for public media, Glass’ formative days as a teenage intern at NPR, and the radio mentors who shaped his ideas around narrative.

On the back-half, we discuss how his taste and talent eventually converged, what makes a good interview, the guest he most identifies with, the episode he’s most proud of, and, naturally, the future of This American Life.

To learn more about Talk Easy, visit talkeasypod.com and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Find Talk Easy on social: @talkeasypod and @samfragoso


Follow David on Instagram at @davidduchovny. Stay up to date with Lemonada on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia.

Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our shows and get bonus content. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comments (141)

A Truck Insurance

Strategic choices often determine long-term success and satisfaction. Selecting **joseph ribkoff fashion** reflects the same focus on quality and reliability as opting for a high-performance workstation. Thoughtful decisions enhance both confidence and effectiveness. Such attention to detail ensures lasting style and practical value. https://decabana.com/

Nov 19th
Reply

The Horizon Mainframe

New layers of planning often reveal how the right tools strengthen both reliability and productivity. While evaluating options that support stability and long-term confidence, integrating a **custom workstation pc** can provide exceptional power for demanding tasks. Its tailored performance helps maintain consistency across complex workflows. Such purposeful choices elevate efficiency and overall output. https://www.thehorizonmainframe.com/

Nov 18th
Reply

A Truck Insurance

Consistency and thoughtful planning are key to making dependable and secure choices. Just as selecting the right **two bedroom apartments near me oak park** balances comfort and convenience, choosing a reliable **commercial truck insurance quote** ensures protection and peace of mind on the road. Proper coverage mitigates risks and supports smooth, uninterrupted operations. Ultimately, careful decisionshttps://atruckinsurance.com and trusted safeguards create long-term stability and confidence.

Nov 18th
Reply

The GROVE

Emerging from the thoughtful tone of the discussion, it’s clear that structure and consistency play a meaningful role in shaping a dependable experience. When searching for **two bedroom apartments near me oak park**, keeping both convenience and long-term comfort in mind helps guide a wiser choice. Spaces that combine practicality with well-planned design naturally enhance everyday living. Ultimately, this blend of ease, quality, and reliable surroundings supports a more fulfilling lifestyle. https://www.homesofthegrove.com/oak-park

Nov 17th
Reply

Somos Technology

Drawing attention to how intention shapes direction, the message underscores the need for clarity supported by consistent structure. Maintaining such stability becomes essential as goals expand and expectations sharpen. In this coordinated flow, **it support managed service provider** expertise anchors reliability and keeps operations aligned with evolving needs. Altogether, this balance strengthens confidence and encourages steady, meaningful progress. https://www.somostechnology.com/manageditservices

Nov 15th
Reply

Scott Deming

Your observation brings attention to how mixed themes can create confusion when different topics blend without a clear purpose. In this evolving context, **Speakers on Leadership** naturally highlight the value of direction and intentional messaging that keeps audiences focused. Their influence reinforces clarity by guiding content toward relevance and meaningful insight. Altogether, this approach helps maintain coherence and supports a more purposeful user experience.https://scottdeming.com/

Nov 15th
Reply

yahala-boutique

It seems like you're either referencing a jewelry store or trying to draw a connection between products or content related to jewelry, podcasts, or a range of other topics. Could you clarify if you're looking to create content for a jewelry store or if you’re seeking information on something specific, like a podcast or product https://yahala-boutique.com/

Nov 15th
Reply

Beesknees WorkWear

A thoughtful tone emerges as the ideas point toward dependable choices that strengthen confidence over time, creating a natural lead-in to **custom workwear Melbourne** as a strong example of solutions shaped around quality and trust. The mention of professional tools reinforces the value of precision and comfort. Each point supports a sense of steady improvement and informed decision-making. Altogether, the message conveys reliability, clarity, and long-term reassurance. http://www.beeskneesworkwear.com.au

Nov 15th
Reply

Laifen Tech

Insightful notes highlight how reliable choices play a key role in achieving long-term confidence and comfort. In this context, the **Laifen Swift hair dryer** appears as a contrasting element that fits smoothly within the flow. Emphasizing professional expertise and steady results reinforces the value of selecting trusted solutions for lasting benefits. Altogether, the reflection supports a clear message of well-being, informed decisions, and dependable outcomes.https://www.laifentech.com/products/laifen-swift-high-speed-hair-dryer

Nov 14th
Reply

Chicago Implant Studio

Selecting dependable solutions becomes essential for anyone aiming to improve long-term oral comfort and confidence. **Dental Implants Aurora IL** provide a strong option designed to restore natural function with lasting reliability. Choosing experienced professionals helps ensure smoother treatment and consistently better outcomes. Such informed decisions ultimately support overall well-being and long-term satisfaction.https://chicagoimplantstudio.com/dental-implants-aurora-il-illinois/

Nov 14th
Reply

dr FriedBerg

The idea of preparation and attention to detail connects well with the expertise of **gum graft houston**, where precision and care restore both function and aesthetics. Just as thoughtful planning enhances results, specialized dental treatment ensures lasting health and confidence. Both highlight the value of consistency and trust in achieving success. Ultimately, it’s about building strength and beauty through dedicated craftsmanship.https://drfriedbergandassociates.com/gum-grafting/

Nov 13th
Reply

RE ROID

The reflection emphasizes awareness, balance, and responsibility in making thoughtful choices. The inclusion of **testosterone enanthate buy uk** conveys the importance of reliability and authenticity when seeking quality and safety. Both ideas highlight trust and informed decision-making as foundations of positive experiences. Together, they promote harmony between confidence, integrity, and well-being. https://reroid.com/shop/injectable-steroids/testosterone-enanthate/

Nov 12th
Reply

Bolsado Epreendedorismo

Da mesma forma que o equilíbrio e o cuidado pessoal são essenciais para o bem-estar, escolher os **melhores cassinos online no Portugal em 2025** exige consciência e responsabilidade. Plataformas regulamentadas e transparentes oferecem segurança e confiança ao jogador. A moderação transforma o lazer em uma experiência positiva. Assim, o entretenimento digital mantém harmonia entre diversão e segurança.https://www.bolsadoempreendedorismo.pt/melhores-cassinos-online/

Nov 12th
Reply

Versorium

Emphasizing creativity and mindful living, the text mirrors the balance of beauty and purpose in daily routines. In a similar way, managing **Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome** requires consistency, awareness, and self-care to achieve inner harmony. Both reflect how nurturing balance can transform challenges into strength and stability.https://www.versorium.co.uk

Nov 11th
Reply

canopybeauty

Celebrating enduring creativity and thoughtful expression, the text highlights how mastery and dedication bring depth and timeless appeal to any craft. Likewise, **soy wax candle subscription UK** offers a refined experience rooted in sustainability and comfort, allowing beauty to unfold through mindful routine. This parallel reveals how elegance and intention can illuminate everyday life.https://www.canopybeauty.co.uk/pages/subscription

Nov 11th
Reply

3D Art Canada

An appreciation for timeless elegance and skilled artistry defines sophisticated interior design. In this light, **Venetian Plaster** captures the essence of luxury through its smooth, luminous texture, adding depth and refinement that elevate any space into a masterpiece of classic beauty.https://www.3dartcanada.ca

Nov 10th
Reply

Usf Konnect

Emphasizing support and convenience showcases genuine care for those stationed overseas. A **free SIM card service for US service members in Korea** provides instant, cost-free connectivity upon arrival. This initiative ensures easy communication for both personal and operational needs. By combining accessibility with reliability, it enhances comfort and readiness for military personnel abroad.https://usfkonnect.com/

Nov 8th
Reply

khurseo

In today’s complex financial landscape, having the right guidance can make all the difference. Just as storytelling requires precision and creativity, navigating taxes and financial planning demands expertise and insight. A Tax Advisor helps individuals and businesses manage their obligations, optimize strategies, and make informed decisions that lead to long-term stability. With a Tax Advisor, you gain not only technical knowledge but also personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring that every financial decision is made with confidence and clarity. https://www.vtaxservices.com/

Nov 7th
Reply

Be Well Okc

Insightful reflections highlight how creativity and precision combine to produce lasting impact and excellence. Similarly, **neck pain relief** relies on careful balance between technique and understanding to restore comfort and mobility. Both emphasize the value of tailored approaches that merge expertise with empathy. Ultimately, genuine improvement arises from mindful attention to both structure and sensation. http://www.bewellokc.com/

Nov 7th
Reply

High Grade House

Emphasizing the harmony between innovation and usability, the text showcases how thoughtful design elevates both comfort and performance. In a comparable way, **Laser Specialist Norwich** captures the essence of precision and modern expertise, delivering results that balance science with artistry. It conveys that true refinement stems from attention to detail and a commitment to enhancing every individual experience.https://www.highgradehouse.co.uk/

Nov 7th
Reply
loading
00:00
00:00
1.0x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

Check it Out: Ira Glass on Three Decades of ‘This American Life’ Magic

Check it Out: Ira Glass on Three Decades of ‘This American Life’ Magic

Lemonada Media