this american life

I'm assuming all you Americans out there are already massive fans of This American Life. If you're not, what's wrong with you? But for all you non-Americans, you should know about this programme. Because it's, simply, the greatest radio programme ever. Even better than In Our Time.

They've got their entire archive online, and you've been able to subscribe  via  audible for ages. But now they're doing free podcasts - you should subscribe.

Some of my favourite episodes are these; about telephones, about 24 hours at a diner,  about classified advertising (featuring Jon Langford from The Mekons), about experimental phases, and this one, about prison. Which I think is the best single hour of radio ever. Make sure you listen to it through to the end.

Comments

[Ben]

You mentioned that prison one to me a while ago. I'll have a listen.

[Charles Frith]

I wouyldn't recommend listening to Prison if you're trying to quit smoking. It's first class, but harrowing.

[Lauren]

I have been addicted to TAL for about two years now. I love it so. Did you know that they are also producing a series of TV shows for the Showtime network?

[Corey Vilhauer]

As a longtime listener of TAL, I have to say I agree. It is the best hour on radio.

However, as we subscribe to Sirius satellite radio, we are without it. They took away the channel (Public Radio International) that featured TAL. Now we can't listen to it because our local public radio station plays it during work hours.

Cry for us, TAL lovers. Cry for us.

[Tom Guarriello]

Given that you liked the Prison episode, I think you'll really enjoy the one about performing Hamlet in a Missouri prison if you haven't already heard it.

http://www.thislife.org/pages/descriptions/02/218.html

[Mark Baltazar]

Greatest radio programme from the greatest country...

Seriously, why:
1) did you leave so soon?
2) come over when I was in London?
3) do coffee on saturday instead of a weekday?
4) not try listening to TAL EP 281 Act2?