The Sam Sanders Show

<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>

<p dir="ltr">This episode is nothing but hot takes!</p> <p dir="ltr">In a world drowning in opinions, Sam and friends serve up their spiciest ones — the kind that spark debate, start drama, or are just too real to admit out loud.</p> <p dir="ltr">TV writer and producer Kara Brown (Swarm, She-Hulk, Grown-ish) joins to argue that spoilers aren’t actually bad — and she means it. But not so fast: Sam’s own team member and resident contrarian Beau Delmore steps in with the rebuttal.</p> <p dir="ltr">It’s heated. It’s hilarious. It’s your safe space for bad opinions.</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">How is entertainment changing with our current political moment? </p> <p>Hollywood networks are scrapping trans storylines, DEI pipelines set up after 2020 are shutting down, and the conservative universe is thriving online. Are big studios chasing Donald Trump voters like the last time he was elected? Or is the chokehold of social media influencing how everyone else does business? Sam unpacks it all with two journalistic all-stars, Taylor Lorenz of <a href="https://www.usermag.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">User Mag</a> and Bloomberg's <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/account/newsletters/screentime?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAad2XVpck1e1i_SPbv2qCyfe7-wM0nUhz9Jt1peNaJigkdPiIcajnGVbSvhppQ_aem_V64BWzKwonN1ieSeFnCsPg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lucas Shaw</a>. </p> <p>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>The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Marsai Martin became a star at just 9 years old on <em>Black-ish</em>. Now 20, she’s holding her own opposite Viola Davis in the new action thriller <em>G20</em>. Sam talks with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marsaimartin/?hl=en">Marsai</a> about growing up in Hollywood, why she avoids “Black pain” roles, and how her Texas upbringing keeps her grounded. Plus, her mom Carol joins the conversation to share the family values that helped Marsai thrive in the spotlight.</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 millions of people, the soundtrack of their lives is curated by Spotify. The streaming giant has made it easier than ever to listen to music, but journalist <a href="https://lizpelly.info/">Liz Pelly</a> argues that it’s also devalued music in our culture and the artists who make it. Her new book is called <em>Mood Machine: The Rise Of Spotify And The Costs Of The Perfect Playlist</em>. Liz breaks down how the streaming service changed the music industry. Then, KCRW DJ and host <a href="https://www.instagram.com/novenacarmel/?hl=en">Novena Carmel</a> shares how she thinks about music in a world dominated by algorithms. </p> <p dir="ltr">Catch Novena’s sets everyday on KCRW’s <em><a href="https://www.kcrw.com/music/shows/morning-becomes-eclectic">Morning Becomes Eclectic</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Liz Pelly’s book <em><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Mood-Machine/Liz-Pelly/9781668083505">Mood Machine: The Rise Of Spotify And The Costs Of The Perfect Playlist</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"><em>The Star Wars Holiday Special</em>, <em>The Brady Bunch Variety Hour</em>, and Rob Lowe singing with Snow White at the Oscars have gone down in history as some of the worst TV ever made. Bruce Vilanch is the man behind them all. He recounts his biggest TV flops in his new book <em>It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time</em>. Sam chats with Bruce about how those infamous TV moments were made, how writing TV comedy has changed, and what it’s like to write for awards shows. Plus, Bruce shares advice for aspiring writers.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/it-seemed-like-a-bad-idea-at-the-time-bruce-vilanch/1145905956">It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time</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">With her debut novel <em>Detransition, Baby</em>, Torrey Peters made history as the first openly trans writer to be published by a major publishing house. Now, she’s back with a new book that makes the case that we’re all living the trans experience. It’s called <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/708446/stag-dance-by-torrey-peters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Stag Dance</em></a>, and it challenges how we think about gender and explores transness not as an identity, but an invitation. Torrey and Sam dive into trans representation, the power of writing things that make people uncomfortable and how trans art can flourish, even in today’s political climate.</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">Are movie stars a thing of the past? Paul Scheer (actor, comedian) and Amy Nicholson (LA Times film critic) – co-hosts of the <a href="http://unspooledpodcast.com">Unspooled</a> podcast – join Sam to break down why Hollywood stopped making true stars. Gone are the days of Denzel, Julia, and Tom – now it’s all about franchises, streaming, and social media clout. So who’s to blame? Studio execs afraid to take risks? IP-obsessed filmmakers? Too many TikTok dance challenges? Sam, Amy, and Paul get into it all – and then put on their Hollywood exec hats to pitch their own foolproof plan to revive the capital-M Movie Star. </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">Is reality TV in trouble? Seasons are shorter, fresh stars are hard to find, and production is down. Sam digs into the drama with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/therachlindsay/?hl=en">Rachel Lindsay</a> (former Bachelorette, host of Morally Corrupt and Higher Learning) and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sobaditsgoodwithryanbailey/?hl=en">Ryan Bailey</a> (host of So Bad It’s Good). They break down whether the reality TV bubble is bursting, how social media changed the game, and why execs keep making the same mistakes. Plus, they dish on contestant horror stories and debate whether unionizing could save the industry. </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 Oscars weekend we have a bonus episode on a topic that really irks Sam – bad wigs on the big screen. Here to break down what’s going on is Hollywood hairstylist and wigmaker <a href="https://www.instagram.com/welldressedwigs/">Dawn Dudley</a>. Her work has been seen in <em>A Star is Born</em>, Rob Zombie’s <em>The Munsters</em>, HBO’s <em>Westworld </em>and tons more. She breaks down what’s really happening on Hollywood sets and says it’s often not the hairstylist’s fault. </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">Kari Ferrell became a viral sensation in 2009 after her small time cons gained international attention. She was living in Brooklyn, working at Vice News when she was exposed and dubbed “The Hipster Grifter.” Sam chats with Kari about what led her to become a scammer, why the media became so obsessed and her road to redemption. Kari Ferrell’s new memoir <a href="https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250288226/youllneverbelieveme/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>You'll Never Believe Me: A Life of Lies, Second Tries, and Things I Should Only Tell My Therapist</em></a> 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">Caroline Rose makes music that cuts deep, and their latest album, <em>year of the slug</em>, is no exception. Sam talks with the indie singer-songwriter about why this album isn’t on Spotify, the struggle of working-class musicians in today’s industry, and how rejecting major platforms is an act of artistic defiance. Plus, Caroline opens up about their past breakup album <em>The Art of Forgetting</em>, how it helped Sam process his own grief, and what it means to truly move on. They also share exclusive acoustic performances of “conversations with shiv (liquid k song)” and “Tell Me What You Want.” </p> <p dir="ltr">Check out <em>year of the slug</em> on <a href="https://carolinerosemusic.bandcamp.com/album/year-of-the-slug">Bandcamp</a>. </p> <p dir="ltr">Listen to <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-talk-to-yourself-when-things-suck-sam-sanders/id1087147821?i=1000677481944">10% Happier with Dan Harris</a></em> to hear more about Sam’s journey with grief. </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">It’s Black History Month, and Sam is doing something a little different: building a Black Hollywood Mount Rushmore! Comedians and writers <a href="https://www.instagram.com/yassir_lester/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yassir Lester</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/garrickbernard/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Garrick Bernard</a> join Sam to debate which Black entertainers have left the biggest mark on the industry.</p> <p dir="ltr">Plus, the trio unpacks how the entertainment industry has evolved for Black creatives, the impact of strikes and streaming, and what it takes for rising stars — like Yassir and Garrick — to carve out a lasting legacy 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 dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Sam’s hot take — it’s time to put an end to the Academy Awards. He lays out his case to Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins, hosts of <a href="https://www.theringer.com/podcasts/the-big-picture" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Big Picture</a> podcast from The Ringer. They break down why the Oscars often reward the wrong films, prioritize campaigning over quality, and struggle to stay relevant in today’s entertainment landscape. Plus, how to make the hours-long ceremony actually fun.</p> <p dir="ltr">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 dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Instead of dishing on Grammys predictions, we’re taking singing lessons. Vocal coach Doug Peck has worked with Grammy winners like Billie Eilish, Paramore’s Hayley Williams, and Broadway legend Patti Lupone. What exactly does a vocal coach do, why does everyone in the biz have one, and how do you learn to sing like a star? Plus, listen to the very end for Sam’s own musical surprise. </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">The internet was in a frenzy over the short-lived TikTok ban. The app went down, then came back, and could still disappear again? Here to unpack what it all means for pop culture are two viral sensations, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chescaleigh/?hl=en">Franchesca Ramsey</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brandonkylegoodman/?hl=en">Brandon Kyle Goodman</a>. They’re both creators, podcasters, actors, and TV writers who had a lot to say about the internet and why Americans should party more.</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">It’s been a rough start to the year for everyone in Los Angeles so we invited some friends to help us get through it with laughter. <a href="https://www.chelsearosedevantez.com/">Chelsea Devantez</a>, host of the Glamorous Trash podcast, and comedian <a href="https://www.erinlennox.com/">Erin Dewey Lennox</a>. Together, we break down the pop culture we’re excited for in 2025 and what we’re leaving behind in 2024.  </p> <p dir="ltr">If you need resources or you’re looking for ways to help those affected by the LA fires, visit <a href="http://kcrw.com/firehelp">kcrw.com/firehelp</a> </p> <p dir="ltr">Other resources mentioned in this episode:</p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://bestfriends.org/los-angeles">Best Friends Animal Society</a></p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Letters from Altadena: <a href="https://www.letterscharity.org/altadena">Wildfire Relief</a></p> </li> </ul> <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">Due to the recent fires in Los Angeles, we’re postponing our episode this week. Sam and the KCRW team are safe. Our hearts go out to everyone affected by these devastating events. We’ll be back in your feed soon.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sign up for <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/culture/shows/the-sam-sanders-show">Sam’s Newsletter</a> to keep in touch.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">In early 2020, comedian and actor Rachel Bloom faced life-changing extremes: the birth of her first child and the loss of collaborator Adam Schlesinger to COVID in the same week. In her Netflix special Death, Let Me Do My Special, Bloom processes these losses in a way that caught Sam’s attention, making his favorite comedy special of the last year. Rachel chats with Sam about her process and gives him advice on whether he should become a parent.</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 10% Happier with Dan Harris featuring our own Sam Sanders. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sam shares how he’s been dealing with grief over the last year, what it looks like to maintain a relationship with someone even after they’ve died, and what death has taught him about living a good life. </p> <p dir="ltr">If you like what you hear, check out <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/10-happier-with-dan-harris/id1087147821">10% Happier with Dan Harris</a> wherever you get podcasts.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Jessica Williams plays a shrink on TV, but we’d pay money to have her be our therapist IRL. From her time on The Daily Show, to playing a therapist on Apple TV+’s Shrinking, and what it was like to freeze her eggs, the comedian and actor shares life lessons with us. And does a cold plunge count as self-care? We play a game to find out. </p> <p dir="ltr"> </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"> </p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Diallo and LUXXURY, hosts of the <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/one-song/id1696154359">One Song</a> podcast, help us recap the year in pop music. We talk about Drake’s beef with Universal, the evolution of sampling in the music industry, and the most slept-on artists of 2024. Plus, we discuss why the Grammys rarely get things right and launch The Sammies™ to set the record straight.</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 every week.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">2024 delivered endless pop culture phenomena from Brat Summer to <em>Wicked</em>’s box office domination. Traci Thomas, host of <em><a href="https://www.thestackspodcast.com/">The Stacks</a> </em>podcast, and Franklin Leonard, founder of <a href="https://blcklst.com/">The Black List</a>, help us reflect on the year's defining moments.</p> <p dir="ltr">We rehash Kendrick and Drake’s beef, discuss Wicked’s cultural impact, and debate if monoculture still exists. </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">Society places marriage on a pedestal, from Hollywood romcoms to Disney movies, often leaving singlehood overlooked. Journalist Meghan Keane, author of <em><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/party-of-one-meghan-keane/1144888159">Party of One: Be Your Own Best Life Partner</a></em>, explores society’s deep-rooted myths about romance and shares her own journey in embracing singlehood as a fulfilling choice. We talk about reclaiming happiness beyond romantic relationships, celebrating personal independence, and the bias against single people. </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">Get into the Christmas spirit with comedian and actor <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mattrogerstho/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Matt Rogers</a>! When he’s not co-hosting his hit podcast<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/las-culturistas-with-matt-rogers-and-bowen-yang/id1092361338"> <em>Las Culturistas</em></a>, he’s touring the country as the Prince of Christmas. We talk about his iconic holiday comedy album, <em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUvIRW_c1Z8">Have You Heard of Christmas?</a></em>, and break down the pop culture news of the moment. His<a href="https://www.mattrogersofficial.com/"> holiday tour</a> begins next month with dates across the country. </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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ronnychieng/?hl=en">Ronny Chieng</a> believes America can survive another Trump administration. We talk about his role in Hulu’s <em>Interior Chinatown</em>, and the complex relationship between identity and humor in Hollywood. Plus, the impact of Asian representation in media, and the challenges— and freedoms — of creating authentic stories that resonate. </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">Technology has reshaped culture in surprising ways this year from Hollywood to social media. Tech journalist <a href="https://www.instagram.com/elisewho/?hl=en">Elise Hu</a>, host of <em><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ted-talks-daily/id160904630">TED Talks Daily</a></em>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/taylorlorenz/?hl=en">Taylor Lorenz</a>, author of <em><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Extremely-Online-Untold-Influence-Internet/dp/1982146869">Extremely Online</a></em>, help us unpack the year’s most significant tech developments. We get into whether the AI hype is worth it, ponder the future of platforms that shape our lives, and discuss Elon Musk’s impact on online communication. Plus, why social media feels less fun than it used to. </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">Brian Jordan Alvarez and Stephanie Koenig are the creative force behind the new hit show <em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfvKrsaZrEA">English Teacher</a>.</em> The show features both him and Koenig as high school teachers in Texas dealing with guns, drag queens, and queer identity, all with a subversive, hilarious twist. We talk about their journey from creating indie comedy videos online to finally breaking through 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 dir="ltr">The Sam Sanders show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.</p> <p> </p>

<p dir="ltr">Comedian Roy Wood Jr. believes comedy is a form of journalism. We talk about his new CNN show <em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hignfyus">Have I Got News For You</a></em>, his time at <em>The Daily Show</em>, and the challenge of finding laughter amidst absurdity. Plus, we play a game inspired by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/roywoodjr/?hl=en">Roy’s</a> new show.</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"> </p>

<p dir="ltr">What if Regina George cared about climate change? That’s the question from author and marine biologist Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson. Her new book, <em><a href="https://www.getitright.earth/">What If We Get It Right?</a></em>, offers a refreshing take on the climate crisis imagining a future shaped by Hollywood, pop culture, poetry, and joy. We talk about how creativity and optimism can help us reframe environmental challenges and inspire collective action.</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">Monét X Change, co-host of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO24uYfXkWFWF9a8xOzlmRw">Sibling Rivalry</a>, RuPaul’s Drag Race alum, and opera singer dives into her journey from church kid to drag queen and how it still influences her work. We also talk DRAG PAC, her political action committee fighting for drag and trans rights, and her new foray into performing R&B. Plus, we rate pop culture hot topics in a game of I-CON or I-CAN’T.</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"> </p>

<p dir="ltr">We launched two episodes today! Don’t miss our episode with Joel Kim Booster, also in your feed.</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesheertruth/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sasheer Zamata</a> 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. Plus, artificial intelligence, the band Oasis, and... WHIPPETS!</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"> </p>

<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ihatejoelkim/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joel Kim Booster </a>dishes on the wardrobe choices on "Loot," his on-screen chemistry with Maya Rudolph, and how the show tackles real-world issues like the unhoused crisis. We also talk about the portrayal of wealth on television and his discomfort with glamorizing billionaires. </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"> </p>

<p dir="ltr"><em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> from KCRW asks big questions – and offers hot takes – about the entertainment we’re obsessed with. Like, should the Oscars even exist? Are stadium concerts boring now? Should we be allowed to talk at the movie theater? </p> <p dir="ltr">Join Sam and a bunch of comics, journalists and celebrities as they make sense of the zeitgeist… Or at least make fun of it. Listen to <em>The Sam Sanders Show</em> wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube.</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>