The Sam Sanders Show

<p dir="ltr">Consumed by a fear of looking bad on camera, dance floors across the country are filled with young people standing still. It suddenly seems everyone is too scared to let loose and move to the rhythm.</p> <p dir="ltr">Artists like Tyler, The Creator and Kaytranada have recently called out their crowds for rigid behavior. Sam breaks it all down with <a href="https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/music/new-years-eve-dancing-clubs-concerts-7e3f5f19?mod=author_content_page_1_pos_1">Elias Leight,</a> reporter covering the music business for The Wall Street Journal.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p><strong id="docs-internal-guid-af4635e0-7fff-9164-a9f2-f9f11425b671"><br></strong><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">It’s a new year, so how about some timeless pop culture to lift our spirits?</p> <p dir="ltr">Music that heals, TV shows that inspire joy, movies that create everlasting memories. Sam describes these as Modern Scriptures – the stuff that we can return to again and again to help us stay grounded, centered and connected.</p> <p dir="ltr">Joining Sam for this is meditation and mindfulness expert Dan Harris. He hosts the popular podcast <a href="https://www.danharris.com/s/10-happier">10% Happier</a>. Dan shares the pop culture that always boosts his mental health and gives advice on how to make your New Year’s resolutions stick. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/one-song/id1696154359">One Song</a>. </em></p> <p dir="ltr">Is <em>Dreams</em> what it sounds like when personal chaos becomes collective brilliance? Recorded live at On Air Fest at KCRW, Sam joins hosts Diallo and LUXXURY to break down this Fleetwood Mac classic. Together, they dive into the <em>Rumours</em>-era drama and unravel why the magic of <em>Dreams</em> feels both intensely personal and universally resonant.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you like this episode, be sure to check out One Song on<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@OneSongPodcast/"> YouTube</a>,<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/one-song/id1696154359"> Apple Podcasts,</a><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5HHEFjbW196ymwEuDa2BAx?si=857d6ea63f314d70"> Spotify</a>, or wherever you get your podcasts.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">There was a time when popular music was inseparable from civil rights and civil unrest. But today, very few popular songs reflect the grievances seen in the streets. </p> <p dir="ltr">Fela Kuti is an artist who wasn’t afraid to make protest music. Known as the father of Afrobeat, his music became the soundtrack for social change in his native Nigeria. </p> <p dir="ltr">He’s the focus of the new podcast <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fela-kuti-fear-no-man/id1835735529"><em>Fela Kuti: Fear No Man</em></a> created by Jad Abumrad. He tells Sam about the lasting impact of Kuti’s work, his complicated history, and asks… why are musicians today so afraid to get political? </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from the <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to/id1469631127">How To!</a> </em>Podcast. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He’s also “quite possibly the world’s most hesitant homeowner.” Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn’t have a clue where to start. Second, he’s not very handy. And third, he’s intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, host Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author <a href="https://www.mercurystardust.com/">Mercury Stardust</a> (aka The Trans Handy Ma’am) to guide Sam in conquering his fears.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mercury’s latest book is <a href="https://www.mercurystardust.com/full-store/p/signed-copy-of-safe-and-sound">Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr">Ready for part 2? This conversation continues with <a href="https://slate.com/podcasts/how-to/2025/11/mercury-stardust-sam-sanders-diy-fears">How To Take Charge of Home Repair</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-in-seven-songs/id1749122105">Life in Seven Songs</a>. </em></p> <p dir="ltr">Sam grew up strictly Pentecostal in Texas. Non-religious music was forbidden in his house – so Sam got resourceful, smuggling CDs into the house in his underwear and watching MTV in secret.</p> <p dir="ltr">At 18 years old, just as he was getting ready to leave for Stanford, Sam’s life was turned upside down. Both of his parents suffered major health crises in the span of a few months, resulting in Sam becoming their caregiver. Years later, Sam would face another devastating double-whammy with the death of his mother followed a month later by a crushing breakup.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sam opens up about the music that carried him through – from Janet Jackson videos to soaring gospel tunes to revenge-fueled breakup anthems – and why today, he’s savoring the freedom he’s been chasing his whole life.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you like this episode, be sure to check out <em>Life in Seven Songs</em> wherever you get your podcasts.  </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Even though 2025 gave us big albums from artists like Lady Gaga and Bad Bunny, did pop music fall short overall? </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam breaks down the year’s hits and misses with <a href="https://www.reannacruz.com/">Reanna Cruz</a>, music journalist and producer at <em><a href="https://switchedonpop.com/">Switched on Pop</a></em>. Why does everything sound like it’s stuck in the 2000s? Who are the artists actually pushing boundaries? And is there anything to look forward to in the new year?  </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">NOTE: The Sam Sanders team is taking a short break for the holidays. We’ll be back with a new episode January 2. </p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Grammy winner Samara Joy is a jazz prodigy, but her singing is rooted in gospel music. </p> <p dir="ltr">She tells Sam about discovering jazz in high school, her family’s famous <em>Godmobile</em>, and how faith shaped the artist she is today. Plus, why her music will never be touched by AI. </p> <p dir="ltr">Samara Joy’s latest album <em><a href="https://www.samarajoy.com/">Portrait</a></em> is out now.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders</em> Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Tis’ the season! It’s that time of year when we’re bombarded by gift guides. Something for your partner, your friends, White Elephant gifts, and the always daunting task of getting something for your parents. It seems like every year we’re expected to GIVE so much. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam breaks down the gift guide overload with Avery Trufelman, host of the <em><a href="https://www.articlesofinterest.co/podcast">Articles of Interest</a></em> podcast, a show all about what we wear. Together, they offer some thoughts on how to survive the craze of consumerism this holiday season. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">This year saw some pretty spectacular pop culture moments… but there’s a few we hope to never see again. </p> <p dir="ltr">We’re breaking down the best and worst of 2025, from blockbuster hits like <em>KPop Demon Hunters </em>and <em>Sinners</em>, to the rebirth of rock with bands like Geese. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam takes on this big task with help from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thestackspod/?hl=en">Traci Thomas</a>, host of <em>The Stacks</em> podcast, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/franklinjleonard/?hl=en">Franklin Leonard</a>, founder of <em>The Black List.</em> One thing they all agreed on? Ms. Rachel just might be this year’s unsung hero.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">HBO’s new gay romance series <em>Heated Rivalry</em> has the internet… <em>feeling things</em>. It tells the steamy story of two feuding hockey players who secretly desire (and devour) each other. The series rounds out a long list of queer pop culture moments from 2025. Alex Abad Santos, correspondent at Vox, joins Sam to look back on it all. </p> <p dir="ltr">From <em>I Love LA</em> to the re-release of <em>Brokeback Mountain</em>, they break down the Year in Queer entertainment, and ask what representation in media can still accomplish today. They also look at the shifting landscape of Hollywood studios. What could it all mean for future queer representation?</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Oscar-winning costume designer <a href="https://www.ruthecarter.com/">Ruth E. Carter</a> makes people look good on the big screen — especially Black people. </p> <p dir="ltr">She’s the mind behind the costumes for countless iconic films including Malcolm X, Do The Right Thing, the Black Panther franchise, and arguably the biggest movie this year… Sinners. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam chats with Ruth about the literal blood and sweat that goes into her designs, the first garment she ever made, and working as one of the few Black costume designers in Hollywood. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p> </p>

<p>Solomon Ray is the hottest new voice in Gospel music, but there’s a catch. He’s not real. </p> <p>Sam chats with <a href="https://www.andrewrchow.me/home">Andrew R. Chow</a>, a correspondent for <em>Time</em> where he covers technology. They break down the rise of AI in the music industry and how human artists are fighting back. Are streamers doing anything to filter out tracks made by machines? What can listeners do to avoid AI slop? Plus, why it’s getting harder to identify if a song is human made or not. </p> <p>Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p>The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">To celebrate Thanksgiving, we’re sharing a special episode of <a href="https://lnk.to/yourmamaskitchenSS">Your Mama's Kitchen</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr">In the podcast, host Michele Norris and guests explore how our earliest culinary experiences shape our personal and professional lives. Plus, every guest shares a recipe for a favorite dish from their youth so you can taste a bit of their story.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sam was on the show recently where he took Michele and listeners back to his roots in Texas. Everyone in his house was a cook and there was a local "rabbit" man who sold all kinds of meat from his truck; including possum. Sam also opens up about a special moment he shared with his mom as she was recovering from a stroke, while cooking her special Smothered Chicken Recipe.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Now that <em>Wicked: For Good</em> is finally in theaters, has the industry been changed for the better? </p> <p dir="ltr">NOTE: This episode contains <em>hot takes</em> and <em>spoilers.</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Sam breaks it all down with Katey Rich, awards editor at <a href="https://theankler.com/">The Ankler</a>, and host of the <em><a href="https://theankler.com/s/prestige-junkie">Prestige Junkie</a> </em>podcast and newsletter. They dive into the memes, the money, and star power that created the biggest Broadway adaptation ever. Plus, what do all the mixed reviews mean for the film’s awards potential (looking at you, Ariana!) and what’s next for the Oz Cinematic Universe?</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Danielle Pinnock got her big break in the wildly popular sitcom Ghosts. But just before she landed that role, she nearly quit acting.</p> <p dir="ltr">She tells Sam how a ton of hard work (and a little bit of lying and scamming) finally got her noticed. Danielle also breaks down why she continues fighting for Black stories and body acceptance in Hollywood. Plus, her latest hot take gets us in the mood for the holiday season.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Sports betting is a billion dollar industry chock full of scandals. </p> <p dir="ltr">Journalist <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/front-office-sports-today/id1579078258">Baker Machado</a> breaks down how gambling has infiltrated sports from the collegiate to professional level, how players get involved, and how betting companies push fans into spending money they often can’t afford to lose. Spoiler alert: it’s all legal. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Samin Nosrat found a love for cooking through working in acclaimed restaurants and visiting kitchens around the world. She became a star after releasing her hit cookbook <em>Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat</em> – which also became a Netflix series. But to her surprise, all that success left her feeling empty. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam chatted with Samin in her ‘secret garden,’ surrounded by kumquats, limes and passion fruit. She broke down how hard it was to recover in the spotlight, and how she learned to embrace life’s pleasures. Plus, she dishes on the healing powers of dinner parties and gives advice for pulling them off yourself.</p> <p dir="ltr">Samin Nosrat’s new book is called <em><a href="https://ciaosamin.com/">Good Things</a>.</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Author Michael Lewis is best known for writing <em>Money Ball, Liar's Poker </em>and <em>The Big Short</em>, his seminal book about the 2008 financial crisis that later became an Oscar-winning film. He sat down with Sam for a recent <a href="https://livetalksla.org/">Live Talk Los Angeles</a> event to celebrate the 15 year anniversary and new audio book of <em>The Big Short.</em></p> <p dir="ltr">They revisit the biggest lessons from 2008 and reflect on what’s changed —and stayed the same— in finance, society and entertainment since then. Plus, he shares what’s making him happy during these tumultuous times.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Comedian Jay Jurden loves seeing just how far he can push a joke. </p> <p dir="ltr">In his debut special, <em>Yes Ma’am</em>, Jay makes fun of everyone from millennials to Kid Rock to his own open marriage. Sam chats with Jay about his writing process, why you won’t hear a single Trump joke in his set, and why every comedian who has ever made fun of you might owe you money. </p> <p dir="ltr">Jay Jurden’s debut special <em>Yes Ma’am</em> is out now on Hulu. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">For the first time in 35 years, there are no rap songs in Billboard’s Top 40. Is hip-hop in trouble? </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam breaks down what it all means with Justin Richmond, music journalist and host of Pushkin’s <a href="https://www.pushkin.fm/podcasts/broken-record">Broken Record</a> podcast. The two chat about the warning signs that might have led to this moment, how hip hop has evolved, and how Black music continues to influence artists across genres today. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Comedian Jazmyn W. pokes fun at everything from being a single mom to dating post-divorce. It’s part therapy, part life advice, and 100% real.</p> <p dir="ltr">She chats with Sam about why she isn’t afraid to be honest in her stand up, the realities of working as a comedian and content creator, and why even though she has over a million followers on TikTok, she couldn't care less if the app shuts down. Plus, Jazmyn’s hot take on reality dating shows.  </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Surprise! From now on you’ll be getting double the Sam in your feed every week. </p> <p dir="ltr">In today's episode...When Sam placed Jaws on our <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/horror-movie-faves-should-taylor-swift-retire/id1771084688?i=1000732278116"><em>Horror Movie Mt. Rushmore</em></a> our videographer, Luis Peña, had A LOT to say. Sam and Luis duke it out and find out once and for all what actually makes a horror movie a horror movie.  </p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">We were all burned by the #GIRLBOSS era… just ask comedian Phoebe Robinson. Her latest standup special <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVnhpftTLCI"><em>I Don’t Wanna Work Anymore</em></a> gets into all the ways hustle culture made us all tired. </p> <p dir="ltr">Phoebe and Sam break down the realities of the girlboss, trad wives and tired baddies everywhere. They also reflect on the legacy of her comedy podcast <em><a href="https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/dopequeens">2 Dope Queens</a></em>, which she hosted with friend and fellow comedian <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jessica-williams-talks-therapy-and-life-lessons/id1771084688?i=1000681118032">Jessica Williams</a>. Plus, Phoebe shares why it’s just too late for her to become a sugar baby. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Hallelujah! It's finally spooky season! Time to break down the very best of Hollywood horror. Joining the show are culture journalists Brittany Luse (host of NPR’s <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-been-a-minute/id1250180134">It’s Been a Minute</a></em>) and Tre’vell Anderson (host of the film podcast <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seated/id1841493344">SEATED</a></em>). </p> <p dir="ltr">They rank their favorite scary movies of all time and build the definitive <em>Horror Movie Mount Rushmore</em>. Can anything top Jordan Peele's <em>Get Out</em>? They also dive into the drama of celebrating Halloween while growing up Christian. Plus, pop culture hot takes! Swifties, you’ve been warned. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Maybe there actually was a song of the summer? At least if you’ve seen the hit movie KPop Demon Hunters. The film’s hottest song, Golden, has been dominating the Billboard Hot 100 charts since August. And it’s the most popular film to ever hit Netflix.</p> <p dir="ltr">Songwriter <a href="https://www.marksonnenblick.com/">Mark Sonnenblick</a> helped create the soundtrack’s major pop anthems. He talks about bringing them to life, his songwriting process, and why music is vital to great storytelling. Plus, he shares his hot take, all about another flashy musical… </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Ben Collins became CEO of <em>The Onion</em> after a long career working in traditional news, so he's got major thoughts about speaking truth to power. He breaks down the role of satire in our current politics and what journalism is getting wrong about free speech. </p> <p dir="ltr">Ben also talks about relaunching <em>The Onion</em>’s print newspaper and why AI will never write a good joke. Plus, he shares his pop culture hot take. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Actor June Squibb became a Hollywood leading lady in her 90s, decades after she first began acting. She tells Sam about finding stardom in older age, her Broadway debut in <em>Gypsy</em> in 1959, and why it’s alright to bend the truth every now and then.</p> <p dir="ltr">They also discuss her latest starring role in Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut <em>Eleanor the Great</em>. The film follows June’s character, Eleanor, who gets swept up in a big lie...</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Zosia Mamet is known for her breakout role as Shoshanna in the millennial core HBO series Girls. She breaks down the show's lasting legacy, what her character would be up to today, and why younger generations are still connecting with the show. </p> <p dir="ltr">Plus, Zosia’s new book of essays, <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/703338/does-this-make-me-funny-by-zosia-mamet/">Does This Make Me Funny?</a>, gets candid about being a self-described “B-minus nepo baby” and what it's like to work with badly behaved bosses in Hollywood (it sucks). </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Anna Sale hosts one of our favorite podcasts (and probably yours too) <em><a href="https://slate.com/podcasts/death-sex-money">Death, Sex & Money</a>.</em>  </p> <p dir="ltr">In honor of her show, Sam and Anna roundup their picks for the best movies, tv shows, music and books all about (you guessed it!) death, sex and money. Together they get into the timeless lessons on grief in <em>The Lion King</em>, why Bonnie Raitt’s catalog is the ultimate remedy for heartbreak, and some surprisingly racy Aretha Franklin lyrics. Plus, Anna shares where she found joy this summer.</p> <p dir="ltr">Want more of Anna Sale’s musings? Check out her Substack <a href="https://annasale.substack.com/">From Somewhere</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week!</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Pulitzer Prize–winning fashion critic Robin Givhan joins Sam to talk style, luxury, and legacy. Sam also asks the eternal question: which jeans should he wear—skinny, baggy, barrel, or wide leg?</p> <p dir="ltr">Robin offers sharp fashion advice and dives into her new book, <em>Make It Ours: Crashing the Gates of Culture with Virgil Abloh</em>. They unpack the rebellious influence of Virgil Abloh—the late visionary behind Off-White and the first Black designer to lead Louis Vuitton—and how he blurred the line between streetwear and high fashion.</p> <p dir="ltr">She also breaks down the biggest challenges in fashion today, from TikTok microtrends to whether “high fashion” still matters.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Why do bad lyrics happen to good people? </p> <p dir="ltr">From ‘<em>suckin' on a chili dog</em>’ to ‘<em>making love to his tonic and gin</em>,’ even the biggest hits from our favorite artists can feature lyrical turns that make us feel quizzical, offended, or even downright nauseated.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sam joins Nate and Charlie, hosts of the Vulture music podcast <em>Switched on Pop</em>, to plumb the depths of the worst pop lyrics of all time—culled from hundreds of listener submissions—to categorize, historicize, and, perhaps, celebrate the art of the lyrical faux pas. Check out more episodes of <em><a href="http://www.switchedonpop.com/">Switched on Pop</a></em> anywhere you get podcasts. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">BFF’s Lindy West and Meagan Hatcher-Mays (<em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/text-me-back-with-lindy-west-and-meagan-hatcher-mays/id1713269318">Text Me Back! Podcast</a></em>) dive into what pop culture gets right (and wrong) about friendships. </p> <p dir="ltr">The duo share their hot takes with Sam, make a case for renaming <em>Love Island</em> to <em>Friendship Island</em>, and ask if MTV’s <em>The Real World</em> ruined the country. Plus, should some problematic celebrities (<em>cough *Cardi B* cough</em>) get a pass for being too real? </p> <p dir="ltr">Want more Lindy and Meagan? Check out their <a href="https://newslettermeback.substack.com/">Substack</a> for <em>Text Me Back! </em></p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Harriet Tubman… as a rap icon? </p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.bobthedragqueen.com/">Bob the Drag Queen</a>’s new book <em>Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert</em> reimagines the historical icon as an abolitionist rapper in present-day America. Bob tells Sam about Tubman’s radical impact on history and why he’s obsessed with her legacy. They dive into what freedom means in 2025. Plus, Bob shares hilarious impressions (Thanks, Obama) and his thoughts on today’s protest music. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Big Freedia is best known as the Queen of Bounce, but her new gospel album <em>Pressing Onward</em> showcases her holy roots. </p> <p dir="ltr">She tells Sam about growing up as a young gay church kid in New Orleans, what moved her to make a gospel album, and how twerking and praising God go hand in hand. Plus, Big Freedia breaks down her iconic feature on Beyoncé’s 2016 hit single “Formation.” </p> <p dir="ltr"><em><a href="https://www.bigfreedia.com/">Pressing Onward</a> </em>is out now. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Beyoncé just wrapped her <em>Cowboy Carter </em>era, which saw an acclaimed world tour, historic Grammys wins, and a lot of backlash. So what does her massive crossover really mean for country music and its politics?</p> <p dir="ltr">Writer and cultural critic <a href="https://tressiemc.com/">Tressie McMillan Cottom</a> joins Sam to unpack whether or not country music still has a race problem (spoiler alert: it does), the reaction to Beyoncé’s success in the genre, and if <em>Cowboy Carter </em>truly opened doors for Black artists. Plus, Tressie argues there actually <em>is</em> a song of the summer… if you’re paying attention. </p> <p dir="ltr">Feeling a bit of déjà vu? You’re not imagining things, country music is a <a href="https://www.vulture.com/article/yellowstone-politics-tressie-mcillan-cottom-into-it.html">cherished topic for Sam and Tressie</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">This week, writer<a href="https://annehelen.substack.com/"> Anne Helen Petersen</a> unpacks the idea of<a href="https://annehelen.substack.com/p/the-great-feminist-exhaustion"> Feminist Exhaustion</a> — a term she coined to describe the burnout, backlash, and disillusionment many women feel toward the hollow promises of modern feminism. Sam and Anne explore how pop culture shaped (and warped) our ideas of empowerment through shows like <em>Scandal</em>, <em>Girls</em> and basically every recent Nicole Kidman project. Plus, they dive into the evolution from <em>girlboss</em> to <em>tradwife</em>, and ask how future generations can redefine what feminism means.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p><a href="http://kcrw.com/give">Anyone else exhausted?</a> </p>

<p dir="ltr">We’re halfway through the year, so it’s time for a pop culture check-in! </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam is joined by two of your faves  — Linda Holmes (<em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pop-culture-happy-hour/id278974813">Pop Culture Happy Hour</a></em>) and Ronald Young Jr. (<em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leaving-the-theater/id1481268414">Leaving the Theater</a></em>,<em> <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weight-for-it/id1686599391">Weight For It</a></em>) — to break down the best and worst of the year so far. From <em>Sinners</em> to <em>The Studio</em> to <em>Love Island</em> and the online discourse that kept us all talking. Plus, an epic fix for <em>The White Lotus season</em> four (you’re welcome). </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Atsuko Okatsuka’s <a href="https://atsukocomedy.com/">comedy</a> is bright and joyful, yet rooted in trauma. In this episode, she joins Sam to talk about her wild childhood, including being kidnapped by her grandmother, growing up undocumented in LA, and navigating her mother’s schizophrenia. They also talk about Atsuko’s new Hulu special Father, and what it reveals about marriage, mental illness, and emotional survival. Along the way, she explains why she calls herself the “father” in her relationship, how she tried to hire a sex worker for her mom, and what happened when she attempted to give her 91-year-old grandma a bath. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Today we’re sharing an episode from our friends at <em><a href="https://wondery.com/shows/the-big-flop/">The Big Flop</a></em>!</p> <p dir="ltr">Every week, the show unpacks pop culture’s most fascinating flops, frauds, and fiascos. In this episode, host Misha Brown throws back to Woodstock '99 with Sam and Lindy West (<em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/text-me-back-with-lindy-west-and-meagan-hatcher-mays/id1713269318">Text Me Back!</a></em>). The music fest was meant to commemorate the original 1969 festival with “three days of peace and music” but instead became "three days of rage and chaos." If you thought Fyre Fest was bad… At least it wasn’t actually on fire! </p> <p dir="ltr">Listen to <em><a href="https://wondery.com/shows/the-big-flop/">The Big Flop</a></em> on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Allison Williams became a millennial icon as Marnie on HBO’s <em>Girls</em> — but her second act is even more thrilling. From <em>Get Out</em> to <em>M3GAN</em>, she’s carved out a new space as a horror star and unexpected scream queen. In this episode, Allison joins Sam to unpack what draws her to morally messy characters, and why she keeps playing women we love to hate. They dive into her newest film, <em>M3GAN 2.0</em>, and what it says about AI, parenting, and the eerie ways tech is shaping our lives. Plus, a look back at <em>Girls</em> and why Gen Z has rediscovered it with fresh eyes. Is Allison in on the joke? Absolutely. And she’s got stories.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-8087d5d4-7fff-f30f-4a09-e6de082ca90b"></strong>Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p>

<p dir="ltr">We’re taking a little break from the show week, but very excited to share an episode from the <a href="https://defector.com/normal-gossip-podcast">Normal Gossip</a> podcast. It’s a hilarious show with a simple premise: listeners send in the strangest, juiciest gossip they’ve heard, then host Rachelle Hampton dishes it all out. In this episode, Sam and Rachelle break down a case of “accidental” love-bombing at a Colombian hostel.</p> <p dir="ltr">Enjoy!</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Actor Jeff Hiller opens up about his journey from church kid in Texas to queer fame in Hollywood. Jeff and Sam swap stories of growing up gay in conservative Christian spaces, where church was both a sanctuary and a source of shame. They unpack the complicated ways faith and queerness collide. They also break down how Hollywood struggles to tell stories about people who are queer, religious, working class — and simply human. </p> <p dir="ltr">Jeff Hiller’s new memoir is called <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Actress-of-a-Certain-Age/Jeff-Hiller/9781668031858">Actress of a Certain Age: My Twenty-Year Trail to Overnight Success</a>. It details his breakout role on HBO’s Somebody Somewhere and why success approaching 50 feels better than he ever imagined.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">This week, we’re building the ultimate Queer Hollywood Mount Rushmore. Who belongs on the mountain of the most iconic LGBTQ+ entertainers in history? </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam is joined by comedians <a href="https://www.cameronesposito.com/">Cameron Esposito</a> and <a href="https://www.jayjurden.com/">Jay Jurden</a> for a fast, funny, and heartfelt debate covering everyone from RuPaul to Little Richard, Janelle Monáe to George Michael, and Abraham Lincoln. Yes, we put Lincoln on the list. No, we’re not taking it back. Along the way, they unpack what it really means to be a queer icon, reflect on Pride anthems, and make the case for queer space travel. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">We all know the saga of Britney Spears. Her meteoric rise, followed by a grim downfall and a troubling conservatorship. Her story captured a generation. But what does it say about America and ourselves?</p> <p dir="ltr">Sam reflects on it all with journalists Andrea Domanick and Jeff Weiss. They break down Britney’s impact on music, the tabloids that encroached on her private life and how she became a symbol for America’s downfall. </p> <p dir="ltr">Jeff is the author of the new book <em><a href="https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374606145/waitingforbritneyspears/">Waiting For Britney Spears: A True Story, Allegedly</a></em>. Andrea is a reporter and editor for <em><a href="https://www.kcrw.com/people/andrea-domanick">KCRW</a></em> and co-host of <em><a href="https://theculturejournalist.substack.com/">The Culture Journalist</a></em> podcast. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Comedian Zainab Johnson joins Sam for a smart, funny, and unfiltered conversation about identity, comedy, and power. </p> <p dir="ltr">They dive into her standup special <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Zainab-Johnson-Hijabs-Off/dp/B0CGZYCX5G">Hijabs Off</a> (now on Prime Video), where Zainab explores what it means to be Black, Muslim, and a woman in America — and why that trifecta still feels radical. She opens up about performing in a post-DEI Hollywood, navigating Islamophobia, and finding freedom in standup. They also unpack the rise of crowd work, the hustle of comedy today, and what it really takes to be heard. </p> <p dir="ltr">Plus: Zainab shares the surprising story of how the Wayans family helped kick start her career.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Some movies are so bad, they become iconic. Think Cats, Joker: Folie à Deux, Madame Web, and The Flash—massive flops that cost studios millions and spark endless debate. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam breaks down why these high-profile films failed – and whether Hollywood is learning anything from its most embarrassing box office bombs. Lizzie Bassett and Chris Winterbauer of the <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-went-wrong/id1512847066">What Went Wrong</a> podcast join him to explore VFX disasters, star power misfires, and the curse of franchise fatigue. Why do these flops keep happening – can Hollywood learn anything from these box office disasters? </p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The ice bucket challenge is back, Lady Gaga’s making dance-pop again, and everyone’s hoarding tinned fish. Could it all mean… a recession?</p> <p dir="ltr">Comedians <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zzdoublezz">Zach Zimmerman</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eliotglazer/?hl=en">Eliot Glazer</a> join us to unpack the internet’s funniest (and eeriest) recession indicator memes — from “recession blonde” to layaway coachella tickets to the return of vampire movies.</p> <p dir="ltr">Then, the hot takes fly: Zach argues that daytime TV needs to be mean again (bring back the mess!), while Eliot questions the cult of Kylie Minogue and calls for Joy Behar to take over <em>The View</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">After almost 20 years of box office dominance, is the Marvel Cinematic Universe starting to fall apart? </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam dives deep into the highs and lows of Marvel with two sharp pop culture minds, Kyle Buchanan (NY Times) and Tracy Brown (LA Times), exploring what’s gone wrong in recent years — and whether <em>Thunderbolts*</em> marks a real reset or just more of the same. They dig into Marvel’s pivot to TV, the fatigue of endless interconnected stories, and what the MCU could learn from newer hits like <em>Sinners</em>. Plus, will video game adaptations become Hollywood’s next big hit?</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.</p> <p> </p>