Comedian Jena Friedman on her hilarious and ironically named essay collection, “Not Funny.” And, The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz reveals what it’s like to be the last remaining member of the iconic band. Also, Scott McCaughey, the man of many bands, including R.E.M., stops by to talk about his prolific career.

Magician Penn Jillette talks about his novel, “Random." It's about a young man who uses his lucky dice to make his life decisions. Also, novelist Ling Ma on her debut collection of short stories, “Bliss Montage." And music journalist Jim Ruland tells us how the indie label SST Records paved the way for punk rock.

Bangles co-founder, Susanna Hoffs, joins us to talk about writing her debut novel and recording a new album. Also, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka intrudes on us to tell us about her high-energy and provocative HBO standup special. And author Kevin Wilson on his novel, 'Now is Not the Time to Panic.'

Comedian Sheng Wang on his Netflix special, “Sweet and Juicy." Also, Leyna Krow talks about her debut novel, “Fire Season,” inspired by the Spokane fire of 1889. And music critic Steven Hyden on how Pearl Jam captured the attention of Generation X.

Comedian Frankie Quiñones talks about his hilarious comedy series, 'This Fool.' Also, novelist Sandra Newman, author of 'The Men,' takes us inside a world in which all males have suddenly disappeared. And writer Steve Almond shares his BETA thought experiment of a Marxist Football League.

Singer/songwriter Jann Arden talks about her hit Canadian TV series, 'Jann.' Also, 'Newhart' actress Julia Duffy joins us to discuss her very fulfilling career. And music writer John Kruth sheds light on Pink Floyd’s masterpiece, 'The Dark Side of the Moon.'

Film critic and broadcaster Hanna Flint joins us to talk about her cinematic memoir, “Strong Female Character." Also, film and television critic Matt Zoller Seitz and fellow film critic Walter Chaw share the legacy behind David Milch’s groundbreaking HBO series, “Deadwood.” And Vancouver punk rock pioneer John Armstrong on the Modernettes.

Comedian Cristela Alonzo stays true to herself in her Netflix special, “Middle Classy.” Also, Sloane Crosley on her latest novel, “Cult Classic.” And Caryn Rose tells us about the life and legacy of the punk poet, Patti Smith.

Executive Producer Chad Mumm takes us behind the scenes of the high-pressure lives of PGA golfers in his compelling Netflix docuseries, 'Full Swing.' And Gabrielle Zevin talks about her captivating, best-selling novel, 'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow.' Also, author Jeff Guinn on the tragic saga of Waco.

Director James Burrows joins us to talk about making America laugh with sitcoms like "Cheers" and “Will & Grace.” Also, "Election" author Tom Perrotta on revisiting his overly ambitious protagonist, Tracy Flick. And writer Abbey Bender on the rise and fall and allure of the erotic thriller.