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Sam Sanders
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The Sam Sanders Show
Why Is Hollywood Obsessed with Tech Villains?
Recently, Sam watched 'The Social Reckoning,' the long awaited sequel to 2010’s 'The Social Network.' It’s part of a long roster of tech villain films and documentaries coming out this fall that Sam finds annoying. The movies are long, the characters are underbaked, and by the end of the film he’s often left wondering … what did audiences get out of it? 'Vulture' critic Angelica Jade Bastién joins Sam to unpack Hollywood’s obsession with big tech, how these films signal the industry’s return to whiteness, and what viewers should be asking them...
2026-10-13
41 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Hollywood’s Biggest Movie Star Flopped. What Now?
In this episode, Sam asks: What even is a flop? And if a flop happens to the biggest movie star alive, is it actually something else altogether? We’re talking about Tom Cruise and his newest movie ‘Digger.’ Directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, this was supposed to be Tom’s ticket to finally win an Oscar…He has long been Hollywood’s biggest brand ambassador after all. But then, the movie flopped. Hard. Critically and commercially. How did this happen? What does it mean? And what does it say about the state of the movie industry...
2026-10-06
30 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Kerry Washington Has a Podcast?!
Sam is feeling sooo nostalgic this episode. Flashback to 2012. Monoculture is omnipresent. ‘Scandal’ is on every Thursday night. Twitter is ablaze with reactions to the iconic Olivia Pope, played by Kerry Washington. Sam never misses an episode. Flash forward to today, and Kerry now has a lot in common with Sam. She just launched a new podcast called Street You Grew Up On. The show revolves around one simple question — Can you tell me about the street you grew up on? Kerry explores the people, places, family stories, and defining moments that made them who they a...
2026-09-29
47 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Is 2026 The Year of Book Monoculture?
Books are bringing people together this year in ways Sam has never seen before. There have been a handful of times in the last few months alone when it felt like he was in one giant book club with his friends, reading the same books, and having deep conversations. It made Sam ask himself … are books actually hot this year? Or should we believe the headlines that Western society is moving toward a post literate society? To figure it out, Sam turns to his favorite book people Traci Thomas (The Stacks) and Greta Johnsen (Happy to B...
2026-09-15
36 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Fred Armisen Revisits Portlandia
This episode, we’re going back in time for one of Sam’s favorite shows…‘Portlandia!’ For eight seasons, the sketch comedy show famously poked fun at the hipster culture, all while set in a fictionalized version of Portland. Creators and co-stars Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein played many of the show’s central characters. Now, they’re revisiting the episodes with a weekly rewatch podcast called ‘Podlandia: A-O Rewatch with Fred and Carrie.’ Sam got to chat with Fred about the show, their favorite sketches, and why hipsters were always ripe for spoofing. “Podlandia: A-O...
2026-09-01
25 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Can Mamdani Save Broadway?
Sam recently experienced one of the best stage musicals he’s seen in years. Cats: The Jellicle Ball reimagines the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber story with a ballroom twist. The show is filled with voguing, runway and Black, queer joy. It also won multiple Tony awards this year, which packed the theater night after night. The whole show seemed like it was on the path to success, until it closed suddenly on August 8th. Theater critic Naveen Kumar wrote about the fate of the production for The New York Times. He joined Sam to bre...
2026-08-18
28 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Hannah Einbinder on Comedy, Connection & Queer Art
Actor and comedian Hannah Einbinder has had an eventful past few years. She burst onto the scene with the acclaimed HBO comedy ‘Hacks’ in 2021. She won an Emmy for her role last season, and is nominated again this year. Now, she’s starring in the new horror film, ‘Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma.’ Hannah tells Sam about the craft of transitioning from comedy to drama, television to film, and why her true love will always be standup. She also dives into the importance of queer art and her lessons for navigating Hollywood. Plus, sh...
2026-08-07
48 min
The Sam Sanders Show
The Cyndi Lauper Conspiracy (From Switched on Pop)
Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode of Switched on Pop! Sam believes in his heart that every song Cyndi Lauper has ever written is pop perfection. Many fall for “Girls Just Want To Have Fun,” but his favorite song is the slow burner “All Through The Night,” save for one moment: the synthesizer solo. For Sam, this solo never fit in. In this episode of Switched on Pop, co-host Charlie Harding helps Sam investigate the source of his musical malady and uncovers how the ‘80s got its groove. You can find Switched on Pop on your fav...
2026-08-04
37 min
This Is TV Now
Sam Sanders Refuses To Rush
** Programming note: We will be taking a break after today’s episode. We don’t know when we’ll be back exactly, but we will do another run of 10 or so episodes when we do! ** We are so happy to be joined today by the one and only, Sam Sanders. Sam is an award-winning reporter, radio host, and podcaster. He is the host and executive producer of “The Sam Sanders Show” in conjunction with KCRW, distributed nationally as a radio show by PRX.We hear Sam’s thoughts on his work in podcasting today — as compared to 10...
2026-08-04
1h 02
The Sam Sanders Show
What Is Sam’s Guiding Philosophy? (From Well Said)
Today we’re bringing you Sam’s episode of the Well Said podcast. The podcast explores all things public relations, communications, and the ever-evolving media landscape. Hosts Pia Arthur and Kelly Cheeseman talk to Sam about his career, his philosophy for interviewing, how he tries to break free from perfectionism and why he stopped covering politics. Find Well Said on your favorite podcast app and on YouTube. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW an...
2026-07-28
42 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Madonna’s Pop Matriarchy
Confession: After several hours of sitting with Madonna’s new album on repeat, Sam isn’t sure he likes it… To him, 'Confessions II' felt like a Madonna impersonation, stripped of a lot of the Madonna energy he’s loved for years. The album also raised some big questions: what even is Madonna anymore? What kind of music should we expect from a pop star who always seemed eternally young and new? Sam breaks down these big feelings with musicology professor Louis Niebur, an expert on queer dance and music culture. He teaches at the Universit...
2026-07-07
28 min
The Sam Sanders Show
The Ultimate ‘90s Nostalgia Party (Live Show!)
The ‘90s are surely having a moment: the clothes, the music, the pop culture! It’s everywhere, but what’s the BEST the ‘90s had to offer? In this special live taping, Sam is joined by his friends Traci Thomas, Eliot Glazer and Franklin Leonard to debate the best of the decade in a live ‘90s Nostalgia Bracket showdown. Recorded at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles, Sam and the gang muse over the most iconic moments of ‘90s pop culture. Plus, composer Derek Muro plays some of the decade’s biggest hits on the piano. Sam even gives his...
2026-07-03
1h 43
The Sam Sanders Show
What Happens When a Trans Comedian Tours America Alone?
EVENT ALERT! Join us LIVE on June 28 at Dynasty Typewriter in LA. Get tickets here. Roz Hernandez is a comedian who approaches the craft unlike most other comics right now. For starters, she is a trans woman, working in a world still largely ruled by bros, her comedy is always tailored for her queer fanbase, and last year Roz embarked on a stand-up tour across the country, but instead of hitting up comedy clubs, she performed at gay bars. She tells Sam about the lessons she learned on the road and how the cur...
2026-06-26
47 min
The Sam Sanders Show
The Real Reason American Men are Struggling
Today we’re sharing an episode of Apple News In Conversation, guest hosted by Sam. The headlines say that American men are in crisis. But what does that actually mean — and what does it look like up close? Journalist Jordan Ritter Conn spent five years inside the lives of four different men to find out. His new book, American Men, explores the gap between masculine ideals and the reality of men’s lived experience. Sam sat down with Ritter Conn to talk about what those four lives reveal about masculinity, inadequacy, and what the national conversat...
2026-06-16
30 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Why So Many People Are Falling In Love With AI Chatbots
Today we’re sharing an episode of 'Apple News In Conversation,' guest hosted by Sam! A medieval-monster slayer. A tiny alien named Roscoe. A talking plate of spaghetti. These are just a few of the customizable companions available through AI-chatbot apps like Kindroid, Tolan, and Character.AI. In her latest piece for The New Yorker, journalist Anna Wiener explores the rapidly expanding world of these products and the people who use them. Sam talked to her about the users she met who are in relationships with AI chatbots, the Silicon Valley creators building them, and th...
2026-06-09
27 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Are They a Star, Celebrity or Famous Person? (From Pop Syllabus)
Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode of 'Pop Syllabus'! No matter where you find yourself on the internet, celebrities’ lives are constantly in front of us, but who’s actually a star and who’s just famous? Sam sits down with host Christiana Mbakwe Medina to play “star, celebrity, or famous person” and rates icons like Beyoncé to rising names like Sabrina Carpenter and Sydney Sweeney. Together, they break down what really makes someone last in pop culture. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each wee...
2026-06-02
1h 12
The Sam Sanders Show
Jacob Collier Can Make Anyone Sing
Today we’re sharing Sam’s recent collaboration with 'Switched On Pop.' Jacob Collier is a rare musician. He’s been described as an ambassador of music, known for lushly orchestrated pieces with a myriad of collaborators. He’s also known for conducting the crowds of his live shows, turning the concert into a massive choir performance. He did just that recently at On-Air Fest, with Charlie Harding, host of ‘Switched On Pop.’ Sam joined them both on stage to discuss the power of music, why we shouldn’t be afraid to sing, and the communal jo...
2026-05-26
53 min
Tank Top Talks w/ Matt Braunger
Sam Sanders is Serving Sam Sanders in a Tank Top
I first discovered Sam Sanders in his interview with Chris Fleming and was knocked out by how much fun he was having. I thought to myself, “I want to have that much fun on MY podcast, let’s have him on,” I reached out, he responded, “Why not?”, and here we are. Sam hosts the Sam Sanders Show on KCRW and it is a delight. He’s funny, engaged, smart, and fun to listen to. It was great to have a real pro on to dig in, debate, and just have a blast with. Throw on a tank top and take a liste...
2026-04-28
57 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Aparna Nancherla: Should We All Ditch the Internet?
Aparna Nancherla is probably the funniest introvert doing comedy. Although Sam is a total extrovert, he’s admired her work for years. She tells Sam how she got comfortable on stage and why stand-up is the perfect activity to combat shyness. They also break down the excessive demands of modern life, the internet surveillance state, and why we all need to log off and touch grass. Plus, she shares a 'vicious’ pop culture hot take. Aparna's latest special ‘Hopeful Potato’ is out now. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff...
2026-04-10
36 min
Walkin' About
Kenneth Hahn State Park with Sam Sanders
Allan and award-winning reporter Sam Sanders (KCRW’s The Sam Sanders Show) explore the majestic, scenic trails of this Baldwin Hills greenspace. Along the way, they visit a monument to MLK with a sweeping view of Downtown L.A., chat about the importance of public media and Sam’s pathway to radio journalism, and chase his rambunctious pup (Welsey Snipes). LINKS: SUPPORT WALKIN’ ABOUT: https://maximumfun.org/joinwalk Listen to The Sam Sanders Show: https://www.kcrw.com/shows/the-sam-sanders-show/latest Help support this show and unlock bonus co...
2026-04-08
1h 20
Sleeping with Celebrities
Sam Sanders Puts Together Audio Shows and Makes Peace with the Beasts. Metaphorically.
If you listen to audio programming, and of course you do, you already know Sam Sanders’ voice from show’s like NPR’s It’s Been a Minute, The NPR Politics Podcast, and The Sam Sanders Show on KCRW, for which he was a natural choice to host, given his name. Sam has a great voice and he works incredibly hard on the somewhat interesting but not ultimately fascinating task of putting together an audio program, whether that’s on podcast or radio. Or video, which still has audio in it. Sam Sanders talks with fellow audio programming veteran John Moe a...
2026-04-01
42 min
10% Happier with Dan Harris
Stop Trying to Become Someone New: Get Past Constant Comparison and Return to What Works For You | Sam Sanders
What if the most meaningful thing you did for your mental health wasn't something new — but a return to what already brings you joy? Dan recently sat down with journalist and broadcaster Sam Sanders on the Sam Sanders Show to explore exactly that idea. Sam has a concept he calls "modern scriptures": the movies, albums, and TV shows you return to again and again because they ground you, center you, and remind you what matters. Dan shares the pop culture that never fails to lift his spirits — and along the way, the two get into why beauty and...
2026-03-27
53 min
The Sam Sanders Show
What If You Could Change Your Race? w/ Amy Wang
A twisted new horror film is being described as a mix between 'The Substance' and 'Mean Girls.' Sam can’t stop thinking about it. 'Slanted' follows an insecure Chinese American teenager who desperately wants to fit in, but faces constant bullying and discrimination. Then she finds a drastic solution — ethnic modification — surgery that makes her appear white. Pale skin, blue eyes and blonde hair included. Amy Wang wrote and directed the wildly brutal movie. She tells Sam how the script was inspired by her own experiences living in Australia with her Chinese immigrant family. She als...
2026-03-13
47 min
Blank Check with Griffin & David
Critical Darlings: Sinners And The Academy’s Growing Genre Acceptance with Sam Sanders
This week we’re joined by Sam Sanders of The Sam Sanders Show to discuss Sinners, the most nominated film in Academy Awards history. With sixteen nominations across directing, writing, music, and acting categories, Sinners is a somewhat surprising record breaker, as genre films, especially films with horror elements, are rarely awarded by The Academy. On this episode we discuss the film, why it was able to break through, if Sinners counts as a genre film; and if so, what genre it represents. We also get into what effect the Warner Bros. Paramount merger might have...
2026-03-05
1h 28
Critical Darlings
"Sinners" And The Academy’s Growing Genre Acceptance with Sam Sanders
This week we’re joined by Sam Sanders of The Sam Sanders Show to discuss Sinners, the most nominated film in Academy Awards history. With sixteen nominations across directing, writing, music, and acting categories, Sinners is a somewhat surprising record breaker, as genre films, especially films with horror elements, are rarely awarded by The Academy. On this episode we discuss the film, why it was able to break through, if Sinners counts as a genre film; and if so, what genre it represents. We also get into what effect the Warner Bros. Paramount merger might have...
2026-03-05
1h 24
Critical Darlings
"Sinners" And The Academy’s Growing Genre Acceptance with Sam Sanders
This week we’re joined by Sam Sanders of The Sam Sanders Show to discuss Sinners, the most nominated film in Academy Awards history. With sixteen nominations across directing, writing, music, and acting categories, Sinners is a somewhat surprising record breaker, as genre films, especially films with horror elements, are rarely awarded by The Academy. On this episode we discuss the film, why it was able to break through, if Sinners counts as a genre film; and if so, what genre it represents. We also get into what effect the Warner Bros. Paramount merger might have...
2026-03-05
1h 27
Rock That Doesn't Roll: The Story of Christian Music
Sneaking D'Angelo Riffs Into Worship (ft. Sam Sanders)
Sam Sanders is the host of The Sam Sanders Show from KCRW. He was a founding host of The NPR Politics Podcast and It's Been A Minute from NPR. Sam grew up in the Black Pentecostal church in Texas, where he played saxophone in the church band. Eventually he would sneak riffs from D'Angelo's Voodoo album into improvised sections of church services. In 2025 The Sam Sanders Show won the Signal Award for Best Spirituality Show.---Do you have a Christian rock story to tell? Want to respond to this episode? Want to contribute to...
2026-03-04
59 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Help! My dad is dating a scammer! (From This Is Uncomfortable)
Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from This Is Uncomfortable. The show is all about life and how money messes with it. Sam joins host Reema Khrais to answer listener questions about finances and dating. They tackle issues with scammers, secret investments, and polyamorous partners. Remember to take our survey! We want to know more about you and what you love about the show. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam San...
2026-02-22
33 min
The Sam Sanders Show
The Millennial Internet, from Buzzfeed Quizzes to Filming ICE
Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from The Assignment with Audie Cornish. This year marks a milestone for Millennials: the youngest of the cohort finally turns 30. So what comes next for the first generation of true digital natives now that they have achieved “unc” status? Audie talks with Sam Sanders about the generation that watched media transform from Buzzfeed quizzes into AI slop. They also discuss Millennial activism taking over the generation’s Instagram feed as ICE protests continue in Minneapolis. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every intervi...
2026-02-01
27 min
The Sam Sanders Show
What Pop Culture Keeps Dan Harris Centered and 10% Happier?
It’s a new year, so how about some timeless pop culture to lift our spirits? Music that heals, TV shows that inspire joy, movies that create everlasting memories. Sam describes these as Modern Scriptures – the stuff that we can return to again and again to help us stay grounded, centered and connected. Joining Sam for this is meditation and mindfulness expert Dan Harris. He hosts the popular podcast 10% Happier. Dan shares the pop culture that always boosts his mental health and gives advice on how to make your New Year’s resolutions stick. Sign...
2026-01-09
51 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” (from One Song)
Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from One Song. Is Dreams what it sounds like when personal chaos becomes collective brilliance? Recorded live at On Air Fest at KCRW, Sam joins hosts Diallo and LUXXURY to break down this Fleetwood Mac classic. Together, they dive into the Rumours-era drama and unravel why the magic of Dreams feels both intensely personal and universally resonant. If you like this episode, be sure to check out One Song on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get...
2026-01-06
58 min
Scam Goddess
Fraud Friday: Bishop Gucci Con Man w/ Sam Sanders
In this week’s Fraud Friday, Laci revisits Episode 152 and chats with journalist and podcast host Sam Sanders (The Sam Sanders Show) about Bishop Lamor Whitehead, who initially gained sympathy after being robbed during a livestreamed sermon. Now, his integrity is under scrutiny as details of his past crimes have emerged. Plus, the viral TikTok Pink Sauce is called out for not being FDA approved. Stay schemin’! (Originally released 08/22/2022) CONgregation, catch Laci's TV Show, Scam Goddess, now on Freeform and Hulu!Keep the scams coming and snitch on your friends by emailing us at ScamGo...
2026-01-02
1h 07
The Sam Sanders Show
How To Talk to Contractors (From Slate's How To! Podcast)
Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from the How To! Podcast. Sam is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He’s also “quite possibly the world’s most hesitant homeowner.” Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn’t have a clue where to start. Second, he’s not very handy. And third, he’s intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series...
2025-12-30
47 min
The Sam Sanders Show
How Music Taught Sam Sanders to be Grateful for His Grief (From Life in Seven Songs)
Today we’re sharing Sam’s episode from Life in Seven Songs. Sam grew up strictly Pentecostal in Texas. Non-religious music was forbidden in his house – so Sam got resourceful, smuggling CDs into the house in his underwear and watching MTV in secret. At 18 years old, just as he was getting ready to leave for Stanford, Sam’s life was turned upside down. Both of his parents suffered major health crises in the span of a few months, resulting in Sam becoming their caregiver. Years later, Sam would face another devastating double-whammy with the death of his mo...
2025-12-26
37 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Who Can Save Pop Music?
Even though 2025 gave us big albums from artists like Lady Gaga and Bad Bunny, did pop music fall short overall? Sam breaks down the year’s hits and misses with Reanna Cruz, music journalist and producer at Switched on Pop. Why does everything sound like it’s stuck in the 2000s? Who are the artists actually pushing boundaries? And is there anything to look forward to in the new year? Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. NOTE: The Sam Sanders team is taking a s...
2025-12-23
33 min
The Sam Sanders Show
The Healing Powers of Smothered Chicken (from Your Mama’s Kitchen)
To celebrate Thanksgiving, we’re sharing a special episode of Your Mama's Kitchen. In the podcast, host Michele Norris and guests explore how our earliest culinary experiences shape our personal and professional lives. Plus, every guest shares a recipe for a favorite dish from their youth so you can taste a bit of their story. Sam was on the show recently where he took Michele and listeners back to his roots in Texas. Everyone in his house was a cook and there was a local "rabbit" man who sold all kinds of meat from his tru...
2025-11-28
49 min
Slate Conversations
How To! | Take Charge of Home Repair (with Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
In the second half of How To!’s wide-ranging conversation about home improvement, gender, sexuality, and much more, journalist Sam Sanders and author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma’am) talk with co-host Carvell Wallace about a truly daunting idea: skipping the contractors—and doing the work yourself. This episode is available to Slate Plus members now. Non-members will be able to listen on Nov. 11, 2025. If you missed the first half of this conversation, check out How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust). Mercury’s latest book is Safe and Sound: A...
2025-11-11
32 min
Slate Culture Feed
How To! | Take Charge of Home Repair (with Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
In the second half of How To!’s wide-ranging conversation about home improvement, gender, sexuality, and much more, journalist Sam Sanders and author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma’am) talk with co-host Carvell Wallace about a truly daunting idea: skipping the contractors—and doing the work yourself. This episode is available to Slate Plus members now. Non-members will be able to listen on Nov. 11, 2025. If you missed the first half of this conversation, check out How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust). Mercury’s latest book is Safe and Sound: A...
2025-11-11
32 min
Slate Daily Feed
How To! | Take Charge of Home Repair (with Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
In the second half of How To!’s wide-ranging conversation about home improvement, gender, sexuality, and much more, journalist Sam Sanders and author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma’am) talk with co-host Carvell Wallace about a truly daunting idea: skipping the contractors—and doing the work yourself. This episode is available to Slate Plus members now. Non-members will be able to listen on Nov. 11, 2025. If you missed the first half of this conversation, check out How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust). Mercury’s latest book is Safe and Sound: A...
2025-11-11
32 min
Slate Advice
How To! | Take Charge of Home Repair (with Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
In the second half of How To!’s wide-ranging conversation about home improvement, gender, sexuality, and much more, journalist Sam Sanders and author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma’am) talk with co-host Carvell Wallace about a truly daunting idea: skipping the contractors—and doing the work yourself. This episode is available to Slate Plus members now. Non-members will be able to listen on Nov. 11, 2025. If you missed the first half of this conversation, check out How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust). Mercury’s latest book is Safe and Sound: A...
2025-11-11
32 min
How To! with Charles Duhigg
How To Take Charge of Home Repair (with Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
In the second half of How To!'s wide-ranging conversation about home improvement, gender, sexuality, and much more, journalist Sam Sanders and author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma'am) talk with co-host Carvell Wallace about a truly daunting idea: skipping the contractors—and doing the work yourself. This episode is available to Slate Plus members now. Non-members will be able to listen on Nov. 11, 2025. If you missed the first half of this conversation, check out How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust). Mercury's latest book is Safe and Sound: A Re...
2025-11-11
31 min
Slate Daily Feed
How To! | Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
Sam Sanders is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He’s also ”quite possibly the world's most hesitant homeowner.” Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn’t have a clue where to start. Second, he’s not very handy. And third, he’s intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author Mercury Stardust (ak...
2025-11-04
49 min
Slate Conversations
How To! | Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
Sam Sanders is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He’s also ”quite possibly the world's most hesitant homeowner.” Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn’t have a clue where to start. Second, he’s not very handy. And third, he’s intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author Mercury Stardust (ak...
2025-11-04
49 min
Slate Advice
How To! | Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
Sam Sanders is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He’s also ”quite possibly the world's most hesitant homeowner.” Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn’t have a clue where to start. Second, he’s not very handy. And third, he’s intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author Mercury Stardust (ak...
2025-11-04
49 min
Slate Culture Feed
How To! | Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
Sam Sanders is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He’s also ”quite possibly the world's most hesitant homeowner.” Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn’t have a clue where to start. Second, he’s not very handy. And third, he’s intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author Mercury Stardust (ak...
2025-11-04
49 min
How To! with Charles Duhigg
How To Take Charge of Home Repair (with Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
In the second half of How To!'s wide-ranging conversation about home improvement, gender, sexuality, and much more, journalist Sam Sanders and author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans Handy Ma'am) talk with co-host Carvell Wallace about a truly daunting idea: skipping the contractors—and doing the work yourself. This episode is available to Slate Plus members now. Non-members will be able to listen on Nov. 11, 2025. If you missed the first half of this conversation, check out How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust). Mercury's latest book is Safe and Sound: A Re...
2025-11-04
29 min
How To! with Charles Duhigg
How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
Sam Sanders is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He's also "quite possibly the world's most hesitant homeowner." Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn't have a clue where to start. Second, he's not very handy. And third, he's intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans...
2025-11-04
48 min
How To! with Charles Duhigg
How To Talk to Contractors (With Sam Sanders and Mercury Stardust)
Sam Sanders is many things: journalist, podcaster, pop-culture obsessive, and a familiar voice from public radio. He's also "quite possibly the world's most hesitant homeowner." Sam wants to fix up the house he recently bought, but three things are holding him back: First, he doesn't have a clue where to start. Second, he's not very handy. And third, he's intimidated by the thought of talking with contractors (who might discover the first two things about him). In the first episode of a two-part series, Carvell Wallace brings on home improvement expert and bestselling author Mercury Stardust (aka The Trans...
2025-11-04
46 min
It's Been a Minute
Brittany meets Sam Sanders, and things get spooky
For longtime fans of this show, here's a name you know: Sam Sanders. Before Brittany, Sam was the host of It's Been A Minute, and recently Brittany ran into Sam at an event. The two got to talking and came up with an an idea...what if Brittany came on Sam's new show, KCRW's The Sam Sanders Show? And then...what if they brought all of you longtime IBAM fans the podcast multiverse event of the season to this feed?!That's how we got here. In this special bonus episode, Sam, Brittany, and Tre'vell Anderson rank...
2025-10-30
47 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Is Jaws Really a Horror Movie?
Surprise! From now on you’ll be getting double the Sam in your feed every week. In today's episode...When Sam placed Jaws on our Horror Movie Mt. Rushmore our videographer, Luis Peña, had A LOT to say. Sam and Luis duke it out and find out once and for all what actually makes a horror movie a horror movie. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sanders Productions.
2025-10-29
27 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Should We Still Care About Fashion? w/ Robin Givhan
Pulitzer Prize–winning fashion critic Robin Givhan joins Sam to talk style, luxury, and legacy. Sam also asks the eternal question: which jeans should he wear—skinny, baggy, barrel, or wide leg? Robin offers sharp fashion advice and dives into her new book, Make It Ours: Crashing the Gates of Culture with Virgil Abloh. They unpack the rebellious influence of Virgil Abloh—the late visionary behind Off-White and the first Black designer to lead Louis Vuitton—and how he blurred the line between streetwear and high fashion. She also breaks down the biggest challenges in fashion...
2025-09-05
49 min
What Should We Talk About? with Jenny Yang
Kink & Conservatives: Netflix's The Hunting Wives, Who’s on your apocalypse team? - Sam Sanders, Nathan Ramos Park (S1E17)
Kink & Conservatives: Netflix's The Hunting Wives, Who’s on your apocalypse team? - Sam Sanders, Nathan Ramos Park (S1E17)Get Sam a lesbian with a clipboard, Nathan needs Kpop to deal with their anti-Blackness, and Jenny’s late dad finally visited her in a dream.It is Friday, August 15th, 2025, and this is What Should We Talk About? With Jenny Yang! (jennyyang.substack.com) This is your weekly catchup time with smart and funny people to find joy in an unjust world. We discuss topics submitted by our guests and you, the listener. Any topi...
2025-08-18
42 min
Switched on Pop
A brief history of terrible lyrics (with Sam Sanders)
Why do bad lyrics happen to good people? From "suckin' on a chili dog" to "making love to his tonic and gin," even the biggest hits from our favorite artists can feature lyrical turns that make us feel quizzical, offended, or even downright nauseated. With the help of Sam Sanders, brilliant host of The Sam Sanders Show, we plumb the depths of the worst pop lyrics of all time—culled from hundreds of submissions form Switched on Pop listeners—to try categorize, historicize, and, perhaps, celebrate the art of the lyrical faux pas. Follow Sam...
2025-08-12
43 min
Switched on Pop
A brief history of terrible lyrics (with Sam Sanders)
Why do bad lyrics happen to good people? From "suckin' on a chili dog" to "making love to his tonic and gin," even the biggest hits from our favorite artists can feature lyrical turns that make us feel quizzical, offended, or even downright nauseated. With the help of Sam Sanders, brilliant host of The Sam Sanders Show, we plumb the depths of the worst pop lyrics of all time—culled from hundreds of submissions form Switched on Pop listeners—to try categorize, historicize, and, perhaps, celebrate the art of the lyrical faux pas.Follow Sam...
2025-08-12
44 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Big Freedia: Is Twerking Next to Godliness?
Big Freedia is best known as the Queen of Bounce, but her new gospel album Pressing Onward showcases her holy roots. 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.” Pressing Onward is out now. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders S...
2025-08-08
45 min
Jordan, Jesse, GO!
Y Tote Mamá También, with Sam Sanders
On this week’s episode, journalist and podcaster, Sam Sanders (The Sam Sanders Show, Vibe Check), is back to chat about melted tubas, tote bag types, Erykah Badu, and so much more!Listen to the Sam Sanders Show episode with Linda Holmes and Ronald Young Jr.!Listen to Vibe Check!Sam Sanders on Substack!Linda Holmes on The Flophouse!See Jordan at Cape & Cowl Con on August 24th!Donate to Al Otro Lado, any amount helps right now.Buy signed copies of Youth Group and Bubble from Mi...
2025-08-07
1h 09
The Sam Sanders Show
Did Beyoncé Change Country Music Forever?
Beyoncé just wrapped her Cowboy Carter 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? Writer and cultural critic Tressie McMillan Cottom 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 Cowboy Carter truly opened doors for Black artists. Plus, Tressie argues there actually is a song of the summer… if you’re paying attention. Feeling a...
2025-08-01
58 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Are We Living in a Feminist Dystopia?
This week, writer Anne Helen Petersen unpacks the idea of Feminist Exhaustion — 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 Scandal, Girls and basically every recent Nicole Kidman project. Plus, they dive into the evolution from girlboss to tradwife, and ask how future generations can redefine what feminism means. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. T...
2025-07-25
48 min
Your Mama’s Kitchen
Sam Sanders on the Healing Powers of Smothered Chicken
Journalist, podcast host and radio star Sam Sanders takes us back to his roots in Texas, where everyone one in his house was a cook and there was a local "rabbit" man who sold all kinds of meat from his truck; including possum. Sam opens up about a special moment he shared with his mom as she was recovering from stroke, while cooking her special Smothered Chicken Recipe.Check out Sam's podcast The Sam Sanders Show and Vibe Check. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025-07-22
51 min
The Sam Sanders Show
What’s Worth Watching (and Skipping) in 2025 So Far?
We’re halfway through the year, so it’s time for a pop culture check-in! Sam is joined by two of your faves — Linda Holmes (Pop Culture Happy Hour) and Ronald Young Jr. (Leaving the Theater, Weight For It) — to break down the best and worst of the year so far. From Sinners to The Studio to Love Island and the online discourse that kept us all talking. Plus, an epic fix for The White Lotus season four (you’re welcome). Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each...
2025-07-18
52 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Can Atsuko Okatsuka Turn Family Trauma Into Comedy Gold?
Atsuko Okatsuka’s comedy 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. ...
2025-07-11
53 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Woodstock '99: Mosh Pit at the Apocalypse with Sam Sanders and Lindy West (From The Big Flop)
Today we’re sharing an episode from our friends at The Big Flop! 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 (Text Me Back!). 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! Listen to The Big Flop on the Wondery App or wherev...
2025-07-04
41 min
The Parting Shot with H. Alan Scott
End Credits: A Wild Week of Insane Headlines with KCRW's Sam Sanders
You're not going to want to miss this one. Sam Sanders, the brilliant host of KCRW's pop culture podcast The Sam Sanders Show, joins Newsweek’s H. Alan Scott to help make sense of a truly chaotic week in news and entertainment. They unpack the complicated and stunning verdict in the Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial and what it means. Then, it's time for some news that has us buzzing: The Devil Wears Prada 2 is a go with the original cast! From one iconic diva to another, we break down the reviews and viral moments from Rachel Zegler's debut in Ev...
2025-07-03
46 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Jeff Hiller: Can Faith And Queerness Coexist?
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. Jeff Hiller’s new memoir is called Actress of a Certain Age: My Twenty-Year Trail to Overnight Success. It details his breakout role on HBO’s Someb...
2025-06-13
52 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Who’s On Your Queer Hollywood Mount Rushmore?
This week, we’re building the ultimate Queer Hollywood Mount Rushmore. Who belongs on the mountain of the most iconic LGBTQ+ entertainers in history? Sam is joined by comedians Cameron Esposito and Jay Jurden 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. ...
2025-06-06
49 min
The Sam Sanders Show
What happened to Britney Spears and the Millennial Dream?
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? 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. Jeff is the author of the new book Waiting For Britney Spears: A True Story, Allegedly. Andrea is a reporter and editor for KCRW...
2025-05-30
48 min
Wayne Brady's What If?! with Jonathan Mangum
What If Sam Sanders Was Our Guest?!
Sam Sanders (Vibe Check, The Sam Sanders Show) joins Wayne and Jonathan to talk about craving Moo-Deng, shake-that-ass music, dating "I can fix you" type folks and more on a pop culture-recapping, freestyle-rapping, toe-tapping episode of What If?!Follow Sam Sanders on InstagramFollow Wayne Brady on Instagram and TikTokFollow Jonathan Mangum on Instagram and TikTokThis is a Headgum podcast. Follow Headgum on Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok. Advertise on What If?! via Gumball.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit...
2025-05-22
55 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Can Hollywood Learn from Its Biggest Bombs?
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. 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 What Went Wrong 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? Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to...
2025-05-16
51 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Are Spoilers Actually Bad? And More Pop Culture Hot Takes
This episode is nothing but hot takes! 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. 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. It’s heated. It’s hilarious. It’s your safe space for bad opinions. Sign up for...
2025-04-25
1h 06
The Sam Sanders Show
Is Entertainment Moving to the Right?
How is entertainment changing with our current political moment? 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 User Mag and Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sand...
2025-04-18
49 min
Soul-led Creative Women with Sam Horton
Use Your Chakras To Thrive - Mind, Body & Spirit | Mary Sanders
Send us Fan MailFOR EPISODE LINKS & MORE INFO VISIT: https://samhorton.co/blog/ep50Sam Horton welcomes the wise and radiant Dr. Mary Sanders—medical intuitive, energy healer, and holistic health advocate—for a conversation that dives deep into the energetics of healing, creativity, and personal empowerment.Mary shares her powerful personal journey from navigating early hearing impairment to finding her soul's calling in chiropractic care, meditation, and energy medicine. Together, Sam and Mary explore how our chakra system reflects and influences the mind, body, and spirit—and how we...
2025-04-13
33 min
Soul-led Creative Women with Sam Horton
Use Your Chakras To Thrive - Mind, Body & Spirit | Mary Sanders
Send us Fan MailFOR EPISODE LINKS & MORE INFO VISIT: https://samhorton.co/blog/ep50Sam Horton welcomes the wise and radiant Dr. Mary Sanders—medical intuitive, energy healer, and holistic health advocate—for a conversation that dives deep into the energetics of healing, creativity, and personal empowerment.Mary shares her powerful personal journey from navigating early hearing impairment to finding her soul's calling in chiropractic care, meditation, and energy medicine. Together, Sam and Mary explore how our chakra system reflects and influences the mind, body, and spirit—and how we...
2025-04-13
33 min
The Sam Sanders Show
How Did Marsai Martin Conquer Child Stardom?
Marsai Martin became a star at just 9 years old on Black-ish. Now 20, she’s holding her own opposite Viola Davis in the new action thriller G20. Sam talks with Marsai 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. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sande...
2025-04-11
55 min
You Are Good
9½ Weeks w. Sam Sanders
"How does it feel like to be out of control?" In which we kick off a month of erotic thrillers by enduring 9½ Weeks with the wonderful Sam Sanders.The Sam Sanders Show:https://www.npr.org/podcasts/1263450739/the-sam-sanders-showA Streetcar Named Desire trans table read:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-streetcar-named-desire-a-trans-table-read-tickets-1278976786999Magpie Cinema Club is wonderful!linktr.ee/magpiecinemaclubCarolyn's tour:https://www.carolynkendrick.com/tourAlex’s zine:http...
2025-04-02
1h 23
The Sam Sanders Show
Why Do We Love Bad TV?
The Star Wars Holiday Special, The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, 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 It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time. 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. It Seemed Li...
2025-03-28
55 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Is Gender Just a Story?
With her debut novel Detransition, Baby, 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 Stag Dance, 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. Sign up for Sam’...
2025-03-21
53 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Are Movie Stars Dead?
Are movie stars a thing of the past? Paul Scheer (actor, comedian) and Amy Nicholson (LA Times film critic) – co-hosts of the Unspooled 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.
2025-03-14
55 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Is Reality TV Falling Apart?
Is reality TV in trouble? Seasons are shorter, fresh stars are hard to find, and production is down. Sam digs into the drama with Rachel Lindsay (former Bachelorette, host of Morally Corrupt and Higher Learning) and Ryan Bailey (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. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every...
2025-03-07
52 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Why Are Movie Wigs So Bad?!
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 Dawn Dudley. Her work has been seen in A Star is Born, Rob Zombie’s The Munsters, HBO’s Westworld and tons more. She breaks down what’s really happening on Hollywood sets and says it’s often not the hairstylist’s fault. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show i...
2025-03-01
15 min
The Sam Sanders Show
The Hipster Grifter Speaks: Kari Ferrell on Scamming & Redemption
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 You'll Never Believe Me: A Life of Lies, Second Tries, and Things I Should Only Tell My Therapist is out now. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week...
2025-02-28
48 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Escaping Heartbreak with Musician Caroline Rose
Caroline Rose makes music that cuts deep, and their latest album, year of the slug, 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 The Art of Forgetting, 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.”
2025-02-21
58 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Who Belongs on Black Hollywood’s Mount Rushmore?
It’s Black History Month, and Sam is doing something a little different: building a Black Hollywood Mount Rushmore! Comedians and writers Yassir Lester and Garrick Bernard join Sam to debate which Black entertainers have left the biggest mark on the industry. 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. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each wee...
2025-02-14
51 min
The Sam Sanders Show
Should the Oscars Even Exist? with The Big Picture Hosts Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins
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 The Big Picture 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. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sa...
2025-02-07
56 min
Scam Goddess
Scams Hitting the Slopes w/ Sam Sanders
Journalism genius and podcast favorite Sam Sanders (Vibe Check, The Sam Sanders Show on KCRW) joins Laci to take down the latest scam hitting the ski slopes. While they may not agree on taking a spin on the ski lift, they’re both all in for cozying up with drinks by the fire and rocking those snow bunny fits. Today’s scheme has it all—Jay Peak, a snowy retreat just 20 minutes from Vermont; Green Cards; mountain makeovers; a man with chilling, soul-piercing eyes; Resorts World; and a sprawling biotech facility set to produce advanced medical devices from dialysis machine...
2025-02-04
1h 19
The Sam Sanders Show
Sam Sings! with Celebrity Vocal Coach Doug Peck
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. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The Sam Sanders Show is a production of KCRW and Sam Sa...
2025-01-31
50 min
So Bad It's Good with Ryan Bailey
Sam Sanders from KRCW's The Sam Sanders Show and Vibe Check on 2025 thus far, Oscar nominations, Beyonce, Lively vs Baldoni, TikTok and our love of pop culture!
TUESDAY! Deep collective breath! Folks, I have a great interview for you today with someone I really look up to. You probably already know him but if you don't I can't wait for you to meet him. His name is Sam Sanders (@samsanders) and he is the host of the pods Vibe Check (@vibecheck_pod) and the new The Sam Sanders Show! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sam-sanders-show/id1771084688 He talks all about the best in pop culture and, frankly, he's brilliant. Had the best time talking to him and hope to talk to him again! Also, I...
2025-01-21
1h 21
The Sam Sanders Show
Rachel Bloom Confronts Grief with a Heckler Named Death
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. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week. The...
2025-01-03
49 min
10% Happier with Dan Harris
How To Talk To Yourself When Things Suck | Sam Sanders
New episodes come out every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for free, with 1-week early access for Wondery+ subscribers. --- Smart strategies that emerged from a brutal year. Sam Sanders is an award-winning reporter, radio host and podcaster. He co-hosts the podcast Vibe Check with Zach Stafford and Saeed Jones. He also currently hosts The Sam Sanders Show from KCRW. Check out the album he mentioned in the episode, Caroline Rose's The Art of Forgetting. This is part 2 in a 3-part series we're running on grief....
2024-12-04
1h 05
The Sam Sanders Show
The Sam Sanders Show is out now
The Sam Sanders Show 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? 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 The Sam Sanders Show wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Sign up for Sam’s Newsletter to get behind the scenes stuff from every interview each week.
2024-09-27
01 min
Glamorous Trash - Cookies Only
[PREVIEW] Beyoncé, Cowboy Carter, and Unpacking Country Music History (With Sam Sanders)
Grab your hat and saddle up! Before the release of Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter," Chelsea and Sam Sanders (co-host of the Vibe Check podcast) talk about the times Beyoncé has come closest to memoir-level vulnerability. They share insights on the history of country music, make a few predictions about songs they'd love to hear on the album, and discuss its potential impact on culture. Plus, they have a few thoughts on J.Lo’s documentary to boot! Show Notes:Glamorous Trash: Will Taylor Swift, Beyonce and “Barbie” Change Everything??Glamorous Trash: J...
2024-03-22
05 min
Glamorous Trash: A Celebrity Memoir Podcast
Beyoncé, Cowboy Carter, and Unpacking Country Music History (With Sam Sanders)
Grab your hat and saddle up! Before the release of Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter," Chelsea and Sam Sanders (co-host of the Vibe Check podcast) talk about the times Beyoncé has come closest to memoir-level vulnerability. They share insights on the history of country music, make a few predictions about songs they'd love to hear on the album, and discuss its potential impact on culture. Plus, they have a few thoughts on J.Lo’s documentary to boot! Show Notes: Glamorous Trash: Will Taylor Swift, Beyonce and “Barbie” Change Everything?? Glamorous Trash: J.Lo’s “...
2024-03-22
46 min
Glamorous Trash: A Celebrity Memoir Podcast
Beyoncé, Cowboy Carter, and Unpacking Country Music History (With Sam Sanders)
Grab your hat and saddle up! Before the release of Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter," Chelsea and Sam Sanders (co-host of the Vibe Check podcast) talk about the times Beyoncé has come closest to memoir-level vulnerability. They share insights on the history of country music, make a few predictions about songs they'd love to hear on the album, and discuss its potential impact on culture. Plus, they have a few thoughts on J.Lo’s documentary to boot! Show Notes: Glamorous Trash: Will Taylor Swift, Beyonce and “Barbie” Change Everything?? Glamorous Trash: J.Lo’s “This Is Me… Now” Decoded Vibe Check hosts discuss Be...
2024-03-22
46 min
It’s OK That You’re Not OK with Megan Devine
Sam Sanders: Life Has Been Lifing
Sam Sanders is a well known and well loved radio and podcast host. He went a little extra-viral for a recent episode of his show, Vibe Check, in which he and his co-hosts openly discussed grief. Maybe you heard that episode: Life Has Been Lifing Lately. This week on It’s OK That You’re Not OK, Sam joins us to talk about being open with his grief, and the ongoing relationships we have even after death. In this episode we cover: What happens if you give grief a voice? The double...
2024-03-04
59 min
It’s OK That You’re Not OK with Megan Devine
Sam Sanders: Life Has Been Lifing
Sam Sanders is a well known and well loved radio and podcast host. He went a little extra-viral for a recent episode of his show, Vibe Check, in which he and his co-hosts openly discussed grief. This week on It’s OK, Sam joins us to talk about being open with his grief, and the ongoing relationships we have even after death. In this episode we cover: What happens if you give grief a voice? The double-edged sword of church communities Why understanding context helps you treat yourself more kindly How men speak...
2023-08-21
59 min
The Stacks
Ep. 278 We're Giving Him Drugs with Sam Sanders
Sam Sanders, host of the Into It and Vibe Check podcasts, joins us to discuss the history of objectivity in journalism, what identity is and how people wield it, and what it's like having co-hosts and working with friends. We also hear how Sam decides which books to feature on his podcasts and how much he should share with his audience.The Stacks Book Club selection for August is You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi. We will discuss the book on August 30th with Sam Sanders.You can find...
2023-08-02
58 min
Keeping Records
Haunt Me, Paul (with Sam Sanders)
An episode full of shocking revelations. Someone in the room (EJ) has never been to TGI Friday's. Someone else in the room (Shelby) thinks Taylor Swift is a psychopath. And someone else in the room (our guest Sam Sanders [It's Been a Minute, Vibe Check, Into It]) didn't know that Jason Mraz says he's Mr. A to Z because Mr. A to Z spells... Mraz .Also we rarely get this topical/controversial but if you're looking for a primer on the entire DWD drama between Oliv*a and H*rry and J*son, we've got a literal N...
2022-10-21
1h 38
The FasterFreedom Show: Change the Way You Think About Freedom
Real Estate Ignited: How Dusty and Chelle Sanders Transformed Their Lives | EP. 21
You've probably heard a bunch of stories about people who had to pivot and create a different life for themselves. Each one has a different kind of inspiration to share with those who are willing to listen and follow the same steps. Today, you'll hear how the power of real estate helped transform two people's lives. In today's episode, Sam brought in power couple Dusty and Chelle Sanders of Foundry Properties LLC to share how they created a better life and built a thriving business they can pass on to their children. They both used to work i...
2022-09-28
38 min
Longform
Episode 497: Sam Sanders
Sam Sanders is the former host of NPR’s It’s Been a Minute. He hosts Vulture’s Into It, which launched last week.“I don’t think I ever wanted a career where I was doing the same thing for 30 years. I think that, editorially, I had become someone who was really contemplating what kind of capital-j journalist I wanted to be, want to be, and I was questioning a lot of rules and the structure of what we think journalism is supposed to be, and I think I needed to be away from a legacy institution...
2022-08-03
1h 01
Outlier On Air | Founders, Disruptors, & Mavens
Bonus Ep: Sam Sanders of NPR's It's Been A Minute
Sam Sanders is a reporter and host of It's Been a Minute with Sam Sanders at NPR. In the show, Sanders engages with journalists, actors, musicians, and listeners to gain the kind of understanding about news and popular culture that can only be reached through conversation. The podcast releases two episodes each week: a "deep dive" interview on Tuesdays, as well as a Friday wrap of the week's news.Sam Sanders is a reporter and host of It's Been a Minute with Sam Sanders at NPR. In the show, Sanders engages with journalists, actors, musicians, and listeners to gain...
2018-10-19
31 min
Sam and Ross Like Things
Sam and Ross like Susan — Episode 41
Show notes Sam’s PO Box PO 25914 Richmond, VA 23260-5914 It's Been a Minute with Sam Sanders How to Stop Worrying and Start Living Christie Coleman on C-SPAN "How to Win Friends and Influence People" & Grado SR60 Headphones — Episode 40 👀👀👀 Niana and Despacito The Mighty Boosh @susanhowson
2017-08-11
49 min