Working

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to dialect coach Samara Bay, who helps film and TV actors learn new accents. In the interview, Samara describes her coaching process and explains the importance of combining good dialect work with good acting. Then she teaches Isaac how to speak in an Irish accent. After the interview Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss Samara’s tactful way of providing feedback and the distinction between “cheerleading” and “flattering.”In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Samara talks about one particular movie that she loved working on. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and the Culture Gabfest—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam talks to Jordan Moblo, the man behind the Instagram account @jordys.book.club, which features artful photos of both fiction and nonfiction books, as well as short reviews of titles Jordan feels like promoting. In the interview, Jordan discusses the creative decisions that go into his posts and explains what it was like to grow an audience of 69,000 followers. He also talks about balancing his Instagram hobby with his full-time job. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host Isaac Butler discuss Jordan’s decision to never post negative reviews of books. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jordan lists some of his favorite book covers and talks about the hashtag #bookstagrammademedoit. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews. If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and the Culture Gabfest—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now at slate.com/workingplus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host Isaac Butler talks to actor Blair Underwood about performing for the stage and screen. In the interview, Blair talks about landing a role on the legal drama L.A. Law when he was still an undergraduate student at Carnegie Mellon. He also explains how he prepares for roles and how he gets in the right mindset to play tormented characters. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam discuss the mysterious craft of acting. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Blair tells the story of the time he found himself sitting next to Sidney Poitier on a flight from New York to L.A. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to cartoonist Alison Bechdel, whose work includes the hugely influential comic strip Dykes to Watch Out For and the bestselling graphic memoir Fun Home. In the interview, Alison talks about her new book, The Secret to Superhuman Strength, which is about her interest in exercise and fitness but also her work ethic as an artist and writer. After the interview June and co-host Rumaan Alam discuss Alison’s skills as a memoirist and her work-life balance. Then they get some creative advice from Pulitzer-winning playwright Michael R. Jackson. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, June asks Alison about the Bechdel Test. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam talks to author Stuart Gibbs, who writes mystery novels for young readers. Stuart’s work includes the FunJungle series and other collections like the Spy School and Charlie Thorne books. In the interview, Stuart discusses his career beginnings and the literary agent who encouraged him to try writing for a younger audience. He also talks about his writing process, getting pointers from his own kids, and how he’s able to produce multiple titles per year. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host June Thomas talk about Stuart’s unique relationship with his readers. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Rumaan’s son shares what he loves about Stuart’s books. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host June Thomas talks to TV writer Jed Mercurio, who created the hugely popular UK police procedural Line of Duty and recently executive produced the drama series Bloodlands. In the interview, Jed explains what an executive producer does and discusses some of the signature qualities of his work. He also tells the story of how he became a practicing doctor before trying his hand at writing for television. After the interview June and co-host Isaac Butler talk about Jed’s career pivot. Then they get some creative wisdom from writer Roxane Gay. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jed talks about why British TV writers rarely work in U.S. writers rooms.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host Isaac Butler talks to Anthony Fortenberry, chief nursing officer at Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, which has been serving the LGBTQ community in New York City for decades. In the interview, Anthony talks about all the creative challenges he and his staff have faced over the past year, from converting a hotel into a quarantine facility to making sure vulnerable people have access to vaccines. He also talks about the importance of flexibility and explains why managers need to model the behavior they advocate. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas reflect on some of Anthony’s creative wisdom. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Anthony talks about his cultural interests and some of the high points of his job. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host June Thomas talks to the activist photographer Joan E. Biren, also known as JEB. In the interview, JEB discusses the creation, funding, and printing of her 1979 photobook Eye to Eye: Portraits of Lesbians, which was recently reissued by Anthology Editions. She also talks about the enduring legacy of the book and what it meant for lesbians to see themselves accurately represented in her work. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler reflect on JEB’s ability to create the art she wanted to see in the world. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, JEB explains why she doesn’t like words like capture and shoot to describe photography. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week June Thomas, Isaac Butler, and Rumaan Alam co-host a special episode about staying creative during a difficult year. First they talk about their own experiences in quarantine and how they managed to continue getting work done. Then they hear from other professional creative people like Zoe Kazan, Emma Straub, Jessica Winter, Taffy Brodesser-Akner, Alison Bechdel, Emily Gould, Roxane Gay, Chris Eigeman, Alex Winter, and Michael R. Jackson, who discuss the obstacles they faced over the past year and how they dealt with them. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to musician Julien Baker about her new album Little Oblivions. In the interview, Julien discusses the process of writing the song “Favor” and how she combined pieces that were originally intended to be separate songs. She also describes her revision process and explains why Little Oblivions features more dissonant and abrasive sounds than her previous albums. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam help a teacher who wants to bring more creativity into the classroom. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Julien talks about some of the music that has inspired her recently. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host Rumaan Alam talks to cookbook author Julia Turshen about her career as a professional home cook and her new book Simply Julia: 110 Easy Recipes for Healthy Comfort Food. In the interview, Julia explains why she was drawn to cookbooks from a young age and how she later managed to combine her love of writing and her love of cooking into one career. She also talks about the deeply personal details in Simply Julia and discusses why she’s trying to get readers in and out of the kitchen “as easily and as efficiently as possible.” After the interview, Rumaan and co-host June Thomas dig into Julia’s advice to “only write the book that only you can write.”In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Julia helps Rumaan out of his cooking rut. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to audiobook narrator Abby Craden about voicing multiple characters, narrating fiction and nonfiction, and finding a niche in the world of lesbian romances. (The books June referenced are Radclyffe’s “Honor” series.) Abby also discusses her home recording setup and her surprising workload. Learn more about Abby and her work at abbycraden.com. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler help a listener who feels too stressed out to write. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Abby talks about one of her side gigs, where she helps create background audio for film and TV. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to cartoonist and now showrunner Noelle Stevenson about the process of rebooting the ‘80s TV show She-Ra: Princess of Power. In the interview, Noelle talks about developing a fresh vision for the show and ultimately creating one of the most diverse kids shows in history. She also discusses her webcomic, Nimona, which was adapted into a graphic novel and earned her a National Book Award nomination at the age of 23. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas offer advice to a listener who wonders if focusing on their art, rather than working with vulnerable people, is too privileged a life choice. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Noelle talks about The Weight of Them, a webcomic she created about her decision to get top surgery. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam taps into the well of creativity that is Austin Kleon, author of books like Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work! In the interview, Austin talks about his distaste for the “guru” label and the uncertainty it takes to be a teacher and student of creativity. He also weighs in on whether creativity is teachable and sprinkles the whole conversation with quotes and other nuggets of wisdom from his favorite writers and thinkers. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host Isaac Butler hear from a listener who’s trying to find a good writing group. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Austin talks about his email newsletter and what he plans to work on next. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host June Thomas discusses the art of set decoration with Beth Kushnick. Beth has worked on dozens of film and TV projects including The Good Wife, The Good Fight, and the new EPIX series Bridge and Tunnel. In the interview she talks about how she sources items and finds authentic furniture and accessories for period pieces. She also explains how physical items can add complexity and biographical details to the characters we see in movies and on television. After the interview, June and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about Beth’s experience working during the pandemic. Then June talks to Slate writer and editor Dan Kois about a book deal he just landed. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.You can follow Beth on Instagram @bakhomedecor where you can see photos from Bridge and Tunnel and other shows. Her podcast is called Decorating the Set: From Hollywood to Your Home with Beth Kushnic‪k‬.Podcast production by Cameron DrewsIf you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks about movement, music, and space with choreographer Annie-B Parson. In the interview, Annie-B discusses her long-time collaborative relationship with musician David Byrne and her work on his live show American Utopia, which was filmed and can now be streamed on HBO Max. Annie-B also talks about Big Dance Theater, a company she founded, which combines multiple disciplines to produce innovative stage performances.After the interview, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam discuss Annie-B’s openness to inspiration and the way she looks closely at the world around her. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Annie-B tells the story of how she met her husband and frequent collaborator Paul Lazar. She also previews her upcoming book. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host Rumaan Alam talks to writer Damion Searls, who translates literature from German, French, Dutch, and Norwegian into English. In the interview, Damion argues that the work of translating is more creative than technical, and he breaks down what it means to preserve the best qualities of foreign works. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host June Thomas talk about their own experiences with literary translations. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Damion lists some of the works he’d like to translate in the near future. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host June Thomas talks to musician, conductor, and singing coach Kathleen Kelly. In the interview, Kathleen describes her daily musical practices and explains the tricky work of accompanying singers on piano. She also describes the qualities every great conductor needs. After the interview, June and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about what happens when countries adequately fund the arts. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Kathleen plays one of her favorite piano pieces, and then June and Kathleen try to define “talent.” Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to novelist Jonathan Lethem about daily writing rituals, teaching writing, and the process behind Jonathan’s latest novel, The Arrest, which imagines a world where most advanced technology stops working. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss the improvisational way that Jonathan plots out his novels. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jonathan talks about how he managed to find time to write when he was a young aspiring novelist working full-time jobs that didn’t involve writing. He also talks about a recent piece of Zoom theater that he loved. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam talks to author Heather Clark about her massive new biography Red Comet: The Short Life and Blazing Art of Sylvia Plath. Heather speaks about what separates her biography from the ones that came before it, and how an academic changes her writing style for a book aimed at a general audience. She also describes what it was like to track down and get permission to view materials she needed for the book. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host June Thomas talk more about the length of Heather’s book and the tremendous amount of research that went into it. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Heather describes what it felt like to finally finish Red Comet, and she previews her next book.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To kick off 2021, June, Rumaan, and Isaac share their creative goals for 2021 and offer each other advice on how to see them through. They talk about reading habits, social media consumption, time management, and much more. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this very special episode, June, Isaac, and Rumaan answer listener questions about creative work. A video producer wants to get better at reacting to negative feedback. A musician wants to know how to avoid ripping off her heroes. Plus, Rumaan answers a question he’s frankly tired of hearing from aspiring writers. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Rumaan Alam talks with George C. Wolfe. Wolfe is a playwright, film director, and two-time Tony winner. His latest project, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, takes place in a single day of 1927, when trailblazing blues singer Ma Rainey and her band gather at a recording studio in Chicago, and tensions begin to rise. The film is out now, playing in select theaters and streaming on Netflix. They talk about how Wolfe wanted to approach this project from the ground up, reimagining how the story would be told to fit its new form. He also explains how his own experience as an actor in college has informed the way he collaborates with professional actors today. Afterward, Rumaan and co-host June Thomas discuss what they found most surprising about the interview and discuss how they implement George C. Wolfe’s tactics into their own creative collaborations. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] production by Morgan Flannery.HostRumaan Alam Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to Suzzy Roche, the youngest member of the harmonious folk group The Roches, and Suzzy’s daughter, Lucy Wainwright Roche. The duo recently released an album called I Can Still Hear You that was inspired by the pandemic, the Trump presidency, and the #metoo movement. In the interview, Suzzy and Lucy discuss their songwriting process and explain what it’s like to collaborate with a family member. Suzzy also reflects on her time writing songs with her sisters in The Roches. After the interview June and co-host Isaac Butler discuss their mutual love of The Roches. In the exclusive Slate Plus section, Suzzy and Lucy talk about how the pandemic has affected the music industry. Then June asks Suzzy about The Roches’ Christmas album, We Three Kings.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to playwright Ayad Akhtar about dream journals, beginning the workday by reading Shakespeare, and other creative rituals and techniques. Then Ayad discusses the origins of his new novel, Homeland Elegies, and explains how he was able to blend autobiographical elements with fictional ones. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas talk about one of Ayad’s mentors, legendary theater director Jerzy Grotowski.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Ayad recommends two books that transformed the way he thinks about writing. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host June Thomas talks with cookbook author Klancy Miller, whose book Cooking Solo celebrates the joy of making delicious food for yourself. In the interview, Klancy talks about the trial and error of her career journey and how she came to focus on recipe development after studying at the Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. She also discusses her process for designing recipes and why she decided to write a cookbook specifically for single people. Klancy’s latest project is For the Culture, a food magazine that celebrates Black women in food and wine. After the interview, June and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about their own relationships to food and cooking. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Klancy talks about her sources of inspiration and how she deals with creative blocks. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to cinematographer Michael Watson about what it was like to work on the HBO sci-fi series Lovecraft Country. In the interview, Michael talks about the unique challenges of shooting a period drama that features gigantic monsters. He also discusses how he was able to guide the viewer’s attention during crucial moments and bring his own unique style to the scenes he shot.After the interview, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam offer advice to a listener who’s curious about the role random chance can play in creativity. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Isaac and Rumaan talk about the camera techniques they love to see in movies and on TV. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to Jenny Thompson, story producer for the long-running U.K. medical drama Casualty. In the interview, Jenny explains what a story producer does, and why it’s different from a script-writing job. She also shares what it’s like to create character arcs for a show with such a long and rich history and explains how the U.K.’s National Health Service impacts the storylines and characters. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler talk about why shows like Casualty are so beloved in Britain. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jenny shares some of her favorite examples of TV storytelling. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host Rumaan Alam talks to Javier Zamora about the truth-telling power of poetry. When Javier was 9 years old, he traveled to the U.S. from El Salvador without his parents. In his book of poems, Unaccompanied, Javier tries to make sense of his own experience and the experiences of his parents, who left El Salvador before him. In the interview, Javier describes the personal and political goals of his poetry and explains what it took for him to turn poetry into a career. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host Isaac Butler discuss whether they think all art is political. In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Javier recommends some poets to check out and explains why he thinks so many people are intimidated by poetry. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to the multitalented actor, comedian, and game-show host Jane Lynch, who discusses her wide range of acting roles and her latest gig as the host of NBC’s reboot of Weakest Link. After the interview, June and co-host Rumaan Alam discuss Lynch’s many strengths.In the exclusive Slate Plus segment, Jane Lynch talks about one of her favorite projects. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That’s (304) 933-9675.Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Isaac Butler talks with journalist and cartoonist Joe Sacco. Sacco is a Maltese-American cartoonist and journalist best known for his comics journalism. His books Palestine and Footnotes in Gaza have been critically praised and have won him several awards, including the American Book Award. His most recent book is Paying the Land.They talk about how he draws stories out of people and then draws those stories onto the page. Sacco talks in-depth about his creative process, which does not include story-boarding, and about how he gains the trust of his subjects—mostly by learning how to listen. Afterward, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam discuss what they found most striking about the interview and how Sacco’s advice can be applied to their own work. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] production by Morgan Flannery.HostIsaac Butler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks shop with Alex Lacamoire, who was the arranger, music director, conductor, and orchestrator for Hamilton. In the interview, Alex explains what an arranger does and details some of the specific creative decisions that went into songs like “You’ll Be Back,” “Ten Duel Commandments,” “That Would Be Enough,” and “Burn.”After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas answer a listener question about how to set aside time and energy for creative work when you have a full-time job. In Slate Plus, Alex talks about a song from Hamilton that was particularly hard to get right. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] or give us a call at (304) 933-WORK. That's (304) 933-9675. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to novelist, critic, and co-host of Working Rumaan Alam about his new novel Leave the World Behind, which has already garnered critical acclaim and a nomination for the National Book Award. In the interview, Rumaan talks about the origins of the novel, his writing process, and how he was able to craft memorable characters despite being, in his words, “face blind.”After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler talk about the prophetic nature of Leave the World Behind and Rumaan’s approach to character development. In Slate Plus, Rumaan recommends a piece of short fiction to give listeners a taste of his work. He also talks about works of art that have inspired him and shares an anecdote about Denzel Washington. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected]. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.To listen to Teamistry, the podcast about teams who work together in new and unexpected ways, click here: https://link.chtbl.com/teamistry?sid=podcast.workingIf you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler cracks the code of the heist film genre with Phil Alden Robinson, director of the 1992 cult classic Sneakers. In the interview, Phil talks about Sneakers’ nine-year writing process, the film’s alternate endings, and how he landed a cast of cinema legends, including Robert Redford and Sidney Poitier, to portray his meticulously crafted characters. After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas talk about Phil’s ability to strive for perfection while also being a super nice guy. In Slate Plus, Phil talks about his favorite heist movies. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected]. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam talks about the aims of literary criticism with novelist and book critic Charles Finch. In the interview, Charles discusses the impact of platforms like Goodreads (where anyone can be a critic) and explains why it’s so hard for people to make a living writing book reviews. He also talks about how a book’s popularity can affect his response to it and how it’s possible to get burned out from writing too many reviews. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host Isaac Butler discuss their relationships to criticism, as people who both write reviews and produce creative work. In Slate Plus, Rumaan asks Charles about the critics he admires most and the titles he would assign if he were teaching a course on criticism.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected]. Podcast production by Cameron Drews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host June Thomas talks about the underrated art of scrapbooking with Ali Edwards, who managed to turn her love of crafting into a full-time career. In the interview, Ali discusses her most popular scrapbooking projects, like “December Daily,” and explains why the practice of pairing photographs with words and artistic flair can lead to personal growth and reflection. After the interview, June and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about the benefits of documenting memories. In Slate Plus, Ali reminisces about one of her favorite high-school teachers. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler learns the finer points of costume design from Brenda Abbandandolo, who recently dressed two different characters played by Seth Rogen in American Pickle. Brenda also designed costumes for The Disaster Artist, directed by and starring James Franco, and spent some time working on SNL’s digital shorts. In the interview, she talks about how costumes can communicate information about characters and how practical choices, like giving a character an umbrella, are a crucial part of her job. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam discuss how the trends and norms of the real world are reflected in Hollywood’s costume design choices. In Slate Plus, Brenda talks about two different styles of costume design that have influenced her work. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected]. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.If you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam talks about the importance of museums with writer and art advocate, Kimberly Drew, whose Tumblr blog Black Contemporary Art set her apart as one of the most promising young voices in the visual art world. It also led to a job as social-media manager at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. In the interview, Kimberly discusses her new book, This Is What I Know About Art, and talks about the role art has played in peoples’ lives during the pandemic. After the interview, June and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about which museums they’re excited to go to when institutions reopen. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected]. Podcast production by Cameron DrewsIf you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to novelist, journalist, editor, and radio host Kurt Andersen, who talks about the curiosity and drive that has fueled so many of his creative pursuits. He also discusses his latest nonfiction book, Evil Geniuses: The Unmaking of America, and he ponders the legacy of Spy magazine, a publication he co-founded in the 1980s. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler discuss the difference between generalists, who know a little bit about a lot of topics, and specialists, who have a specific area of expertise. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected]. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.And if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week host Isaac Butler traces the creative origins of Michael R. Jackson’s Pulitzer-winning musical A Strange Loop. In the interview, Michael talks about his early songwriting attempts and the gradual process of turning a monologue about his experiences as a young, Black gay man into a one-man show and then turning that one-man show into a “proper musical.” After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss Michael’s distinction between an “autobiographical” work and a “self-referential” work. In Slate Plus, Michael talks about two celebrity encounters, one with Liz Phair, whose music inspired a lot of his work, and one with Tyler Perry, whose work was satirized ruthlessly in A Strange Loop. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] production by Cameron Drews.And if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam talks to artist Paul Mpagi Sepuya about his unique style of intimate studio photography. In the interview, Paul breaks down the difference between artist and photographer, shares what it was like to get recognized for his work early in life, and explains why critical success doesn’t always translate to monetary success. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host Isaac Butler talk about why it’s so difficult to sum up visual art with language. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] production by Cameron Drews.And if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to composer Michael Abels about what it’s like to write music for suspenseful movies like Get Out, Us, and the recent HBO movie Bad Education, starring Hugh Jackman and Allison Janney. In the interview, Michael digs into the collaborative nature of film scoring and offers tips on how to capture your creativity. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about the music they listen to when they’re doing creative work. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] Podcast production by Cameron DrewsAnd if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks about her deep love of audio fiction with longtime radio and podcast writer-producer John Scott Dryden. First, they discuss the U.K. origins of the genre and the growing appetite for audio fiction in the U.S. Then they dig into John’s production process and discuss how he creates immersive stories using sounds and voices from all over the world. After the interview, June and co-host Rumaan Alam answer a question from a listener. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] production by Cameron Drews.And if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Rumaan Alam talks to cartoonist and New Yorker cover artist Adrian Tomine, who just released a graphic memoir called The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist. In the interview, Adrian talks about what it was like for his childhood hobby to become a full-time job, and how his art has evolved over the years. After the interview, co-host June Thomas interviews Slate writers Dahlia Lithwick and Molly Olmstead about a massive piece of journalism they’ve put together about the women in Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s class at Harvard Law School. To hear the audio version of the piece, subscribe to Slate’s Amicus podcast. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work.aSQVdpmcsHwMyo5eGxVg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas talks to Julio Torres, Ana Fabrega, and Fred Armisen, creators of the HBO show Los Espookys. The three comedians talk about what it was like to craft a bilingual TV show with dialogue in both English and Spanish and why the show isn’t set in a particular country. They also discuss the show’s supernatural elements, which intentionally lack specific rules and logic. After the interview, June and co-host Isaac Butler help a listener who’s feeling unproductive in her new workplace. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Isaac Butler talks to novelist and celebrity profile writer Taffy Brodesser-Akner. In the interview, Taffy shares how she’s able to land interviews with celebrities and how she structures her pieces. She also explains why she’s a “champion advice-taker” and tells the story of how her bestselling novel, Fleishman Is in Trouble, started as a failed magazine pitch. Don’t miss her New York Times Magazine profiles of Gwyneth Paltrow and Val Kilmer.After the interview, Isaac and co-host June Thomas discuss a couple of Taffy’s most ingenious pieces of wisdom. Check out Isaac’s profile of Nathan Lane.Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Rumaan Alam talks about elevating Black voices in the book publishing industry with Tracy Sherrod, editorial director of the Harper Collins imprint Amistad Press. In the interview, Tracy explains how the predominantly white publishing industry has created barriers for Black authors over the years. She also digs into the details of her work, including the process of negotiating book deals with new authors. After the interview, Rumaan and co-host Isaac Butler answer an ethical question from a listener. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host June Thomas digs into the romance genre with bestselling author Jasmine Guillory, who started her career as a lawyer and then went on to release five novels including Party of Two, which was released on June 23. In the interview, Jasmine talks through her writing process and shares how she was able to publish five novels in such a short period of time. She also explains why her characters don’t fit into the usual tropes of the romance genre. After the interview June and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about the comforting nature of genre fiction. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Isaac Butler talks to novelist Mira Jacob about the process of writing her comic book memoir, Good Talk. They discuss what it was like for Mira to switch mediums, how the constraints of that medium helped her tell her story, and why it’s so hard to share personal details with a large audience. After the interview, Isaac and co-host Rumaan Alam talk about how fatherhood has helped them get more work done. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Rumaan Alam chats with comedy writer and performer Cole Escola, who’s known for his roles on Hulu’s Difficult People and truTV’s At Home With Amy Sedaris as well as his sketch comedy videos on YouTube. In the interview, Cole talks about his new special Help! I’m Stuck!, which he filmed alone in his apartment and released on YouTube. He also discusses his comedic influences and talks through what it means for his work to have a gay sensibility. Send your questions about creativity and any other feedback to [email protected] production by Cameron Drews.And if you enjoy this show, please consider signing up for Slate Plus. Slate Plus members get benefits like zero ads on any Slate podcast, bonus episodes of shows like Slow Burn and Dear Prudence—and you’ll be supporting the work we do here on Working. It’s only $35 for the first year, and you can get a free two-week trial. Sign up now to help support our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.