
Fresh Air
Weekdays at 7:00pm
Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.

What's behind the 'pronatalist' movement to boost the birth rate?
by Tonya Mosley
A once-fringe movement claims having more babies is the only way to save civilization. NPR reporter Lisa Hagen and sociologist Karen Guzzo explain who's empowering pronatalism today.
Wilco guitarist Nels Cline showcases his musical diversity on 'Consentrik Quartet'
by Martin Johnson
From indie rock to jazz, Cline is one of most versatile players on today's music scene. His latest album is named after his new group, but in many ways it sounds like a retrospective of Cline's work.
How Project 2025 is shaping Trump's second term
Journalist David Graham says the aim of the creators of the conservative action plan Project 2025 is to push the federal government "as far to the right as they can." His new book is The Project.
'Of My Own Making' recounts a painful past -- and what it takes to change
by Tonya Mosley
Memoirist and executive Daria Burke grew up in 1980s Detroit amid addiction and instability. She spent years trying to outrun that past by building a carefully curated, outwardly successful life.
2 recent releases celebrate the music and legacy of bass-baritone Paul Robeson
by Lloyd Schwartz
On Robeson, opera singer Davóne Tines pays tribute to the musician often remembered for singing "Ol' Man River." Tines' album pairs well with the 14-CD album Paul Robeson: Voice of Freedom.
Merle Haggard reflects on hopping freight trains and becoming a musician
by Terry Gross
Haggard, who died in 2016, spoke to Fresh Air in 1995 about his love of trains. When he became a star, he acquired his own observation car. Now that coach is part of the Virginia Scenic Railway.
Millions of American kids have an ADHD diagnosis. Are they being treated effectively?
by Dave Davies
ADHD has been considered a medical disorder, treatable with drugs like Ritalin, but New York Times Magazine writer Paul Tough says recent studies question that assumption and treatment options.
Steve Lehman pays riveting tribute to his mentor on 'The Music of Anthony Braxton'
by Martin Johnson
NEA Jazz Master Braxton turns 80 this year. Lehman, one of his proteges, has created a tribute that highlights the composer's early work and shows the roads to and from his music.
Ryan Coogler says 'Sinners' inspiration felt 'like a bolt of lightning'
by Tonya Mosley
The Oscar-nominated filmmaker directed both Black Panther films and Creed. Coogler's latest movie is a vampire thriller about twins who open a juke joint in Jim Crow Mississippi.