All Of It

Among the most popular baked goods is the classic chocolate chip cookie. One of the things that makes it so special is how beautifully it lends itself to adaptation. Journalist, baker and podcast host Marissa Rothkopf Bates shares insights from her cookbook, The Secret Life of Chocolate Chip Cookies. She'll discuss the cookie's often misunderstood history, how to bake the type of chocolate chip cookie you want, and how she mixes politics with baking in her podcast. Staff photo by Ben McCanna/Portland Press Herald via Getty Images

It's been five years since cannabis was legalized in New York. How is the industry doing, and how has legalization reshaped the city, the justice system, and the lifestyles of New Yorkers? Ashley Southall, a reporter for the New York Times who covers weed legalization, checks in on the state of marijuana in NYC. Plus, listeners share their thoughts and opinions on legalization. Photo by Deb Cohn-Orbach/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The latest novel from Xochitl Gonzalez explores the gentrification of Fort Greene in 2007 through the eyes of one character, Alicia, who is presented with different versions of the American Dream as new people begin to move into the neighborhood. Gonzalez discusses her new book, Last Night in Brooklyn, out April 21. Gonzalez will be speaking at the Brooklyn Public Library on April 20. Cover art courtesy of the publisher

For his new book American Men, journalist Jordan Ritter Conn spent four years chronicling the lives of four different men struggling with various aspects of their masculine identity, grappling with violent tendencies, trauma from their past, addictive behavior, gender identity and sexuality, and more. The book explores how American men are navigating the lessons they've been taught about masculinity, and the lives they actually want to lead. Conn discusses the book, out April 21. Conn will be speaking at Taylor and Company Books in Brooklyn on April 21 at 7 pm. Cover art courtesy of Grand Central Publishing

The stars of the Broadway musical 'Ragtime' join Alison Stewart live in The Greene Space at WNYC. Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Brandon Uranowitz, Nichelle Lewis, Ben Levi Ross, and Shaina Taub perform songs from the show and discuss stepping into one of the largest casts on Broadway. Director Lear deBessonet shares his experiences directing the production. This event is part of All Of It's Broadway on the Radio series. Click here to watch a livestream of the event. Photo by Matthew Murphy

[REBROADCAST FROM March 25, 2026] "Mexodus," the musical about the Underground Railroad that lead south to Mexico, has returned to the Off-Broadway stage. Stars and creators Brian Quijada and Nygel D. Robinson return to WNYC to discuss the show, and perform songs live in our studio. 'Mexodous' is the most-nominated production at the 2026 Lucille Lortel Awards. Photo by Thomas Mundell

For National Poetry Month, actor, author, and woodworker Nick Offerman hosts "A Wonder Is What It Is," an audio series from All Of It with Alison Stewart dedicated to poet, activist, author, and Nick's personal hero: Wendell Berry. In four short installments, released every Friday throughout April, Nick reads a poem by Berry – poet, farmer, and environmental activist – and share his reflections.

[REBROADCAST FROM February 27, 2026] "Bigfoot! A New Musical" is a new musical comedy about small town rumors, conspiracy theories, and of course giant, hairy creatures. Amber Ruffin, who wrote the book, music, and lyrics for the show, discusses the show alongside actors Crystal Lucas Perry, who plays Bigfoot's mom, Francine and Grey Henson in the role of Bigfoot. "Bigfoot! A New Musical" runs through April 26, and is nominated for Outstanding Musical at the 2026 Lucille Lortel Awards. Photo courtesy of the production

Actor Patrick Ball stars in "The Pitt" as Dr. Langdon, a doctor who has just returned to the ER after attending a rehab program for drug abuse. But not everyone is happy Dr. Langdon has returned, particularly Dr. Santos, who caught him stealing drugs from the hospital. Ball discusses his role in Season 2 ahead of the season finale, airing tonight on HBO. In the segment following this conversation, Ball remains to discuss his new Broadway show "Becky Shaw." Photograph by Warrick Page/HBO Max

In the new Broadway play "Becky Shaw," a blind date goes disastrously wrong, spinning out into unexpected consequences for a whole group of interconnected people. Actors Patrick Ball  (still with us from the previous conversation about "The Pitt") and Madeline Brewer discuss starring in the show, running now at the Helen Hayes Theater. Photo by Marc J. Franklin

On April 18, Green-Wood Cemetery is opening Green-House, a new welcome and educational center that expands on the Weir Greenhouse, build in 1895. To mark the opening, the Cemetery commissioned Brooklyn artist Jean Shin to create two new installations: 'Offering,' an earthwork that will transform old cemetery trees into a meadow of flowers, and 'Celadon Landscape,' the debut exhibit at Green-House that features Shin's work with celadon ceramics. Jean Shin discusses her inspiration for the work ahead of the opening this weekend, which invites public participation for both pieces. Photo by Etienne Frossard

It took author and Princeton professor Rhae Lynn Barnes 20 years of dedicated research to complete her new comprehensive history of blackface in American culture, Barnes discusses her book, Darkology: Blackface and the American Way of Entertainment, in which she which argues that blackface was a widespread practice in entertainment, not a niche one. Cover art courtesy of the publisher

Record Store Day co-founder Carrie Colliton previews this year's international celebration of independently owned music shops. Plus, listeners share their favorite record store experiences. Photo via Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers/Getty Images

Everyone has their favorite dive. A New York dive bar is a unique kind of social experience, and you can find one in practically every neighborhood in the city. Megan Spurrell, senior features editor at Condé Nast Traveler, discusses working on the recent list, "20 New York City Dive Bars We Love," and listeners shout out their favorite dive bar. Photo by Bill Tompkins/Getty Images

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, a group of East Village residents began compiling recipes from chefs and residents around the neighborhood to bind together and sell to benefit Trinity's Services and Food for the Homeless. Now, the East Village Cookbook has become a big hit, featuring recipes from Veselka, Nom Wah, Katz's, Momofuku, and more. Plus, it also features recipes from residents like Alan Cumming and Richard Hell. Proceeds from the cookbook benefit Trinity's Services and Food for the Homeless. Reverend Will Kroeze of Trinity Lower East Side and chef Will Horowitz discuss the project and the cookbook. Plus, listeners share what they love most about the East Village. Image courtesy of the publisher

A new film centers on Rico, a 19-year-old Dominican American selling nutcracker cocktails on the beach during the summer. His world shifts when his girlfriend Destiny moves into his already packed Bronx apartment after finding out she is pregnant, adding new tension and complexity at home. Actor Desinty Checo, who plays Destiny, joins us, along with writer-director Joel Alfonso Vargas, to talk about Mad Bills to Pay (or Destiny, dile que no soy malo) ahead of its theatrical release on Friday, April 17. Vargas will present a Q&A following Friday's screening at Film Forum (sold out) with additonal screenings and events at Regal Concourse in the Bronx.  Film still courtesy of Oscilloscope Laboratories

Songbird migration is ramping up, and woodcocks are tantalizing hundreds of people at Bryant Park. All Of It senior producer Kate Hinds talks about migration, and where to go birding in our area. Plus, listeners, call in and share your favorite birds and spots. Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Free bread for the table used to be a staple of most restaurants across America. But increasingly, restaurants are charging customers for the bread baskets that used to be a symbol of good hospitality. Caity Weaver, a writer for The Atlantic, went on a journey around America to find the best free bread still available to restaurant-goers, and to investigate why complimentary bread and butter has become increasingly rare. Weaver discusses her piece "I Found It: The Best Free Restaurant Bread in America," plus listeners share their favorite free restaurant bread in the city. Photo by Hugo Yu

The new documentary "Steal This Story, Please!" spotlights the life and career of Amy Goodman, journalist and founder of the news program "Democracy Now!" Goodman discusses the film, which is running now at the IFC Center. Photo courtesy of Reed Brody

Julia Wertz is a cartoonist and frequent contributor to The New Yorker's cartoons. A few years ago, Julia went through a surprise pregnancy and unexpected marriage right before the COVID lockdown. Her new graphic memoir, Bury Me Already (It's Nice Down Here), explores the stages of Julia's pregnancy and parenthood in a cartoon format. Julia discusses the experience of giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how drawing comics helps her make sense of her life. Julia has a book event at Books Are Magic (Montague St. location) on April 15 at 7, and at Rizzoli Bookstore on April 16th at 6. Cover art courtesy of Black Dog & Leventhal

As additional restrictions began to be placed on women's reproductive healthcare across the United States, one OB-GYN had an idea. Dr. Mary Afsari decided to take her medicine out of the hospital and head on the road, converting an RV into a mobile women's clinic to serve patients across the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Afsari discusses her new memoir about her experiences, Labor: One Woman's Work. Cover art Courtesy of Avid Reader Press

On April 15, The New York Public Library kicks off their annual World Literature & Arts Festival, with a series of events and author talks spotlighting excellent fiction from around the world. Plus, 12 translated titles will be available to borrow as e-copies immediately, in unlimited quantities. Erica Parker, the NYPL associate director of adult cultural programming, previews the festival, and the 12 novels available to borrow. Plus, listeners share their favorite translated works. Photo by Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

There are various laws governing dogs in New York City, but lately, some feel like dog owners are flouting the rules. After a long cold winter of frozen dog poop preserved beneath the surface of snowdrifts has pushed some to the brink. Reporter Rachel Sugar discusses her recent article in Curbed, "Where Does a Dog Belong." Plus, listeners weigh in. Photo by Gary Hershorn/Getty Image

A brand new edition of Hamburger America: A State-By-State Guide to 200 Great Burger Joints, features 38 new restaurants, spotlighting the nation's best roadside stands, diners, mom-n-pop shops, and college town favorites. George Motz, author, chef and owner of the eatery Hamburger America, discuses the book, and what makes a good quality burger. On Tuesday, Motz will hold a book signing at his restaurant at noon, and at 6pm a “Surprise hamburgers” will be revealed. Cover art courtesy of the publisher

In the new documentary "Everyone is Lying to You for Money," director Ben McKenzie explores the world of cryptocurrency to figure out who stands to profit the most from pushing more people to invest in crypto. McKenzie discusses the film, which is playing now at the IFC Center. Image courtesy of C-SPAN

For National Poetry Month, actor, author, and woodworker Nick Offerman hosts "A Wonder Is What It Is," an audio series from All Of It with Alison Stewart dedicated to poet, activist, author, and Nick's personal hero: Wendell Berry. In four short installments, released every Friday throughout April, Nick reads a poem by Berry – poet, farmer, and environmental activist – and share his reflections.   In this second episode of four, Nick reads the poem “The Wild Rose.” Sometimes hidden from me in daily custom and in trust, so that I live by you unaware as by the beating of my heart, suddenly you flare in my sight, a wild rose blooming at the edge of thicket, grace and light where yesterday was only shade, and once more I am blessed, choosing again what I chose before   Produced by Simon Close Mixing by Amber D Bruce Music composed by Mark Greenberg at The Mayfair Workshop Art by Greg Ruth

[REBROADCAST FROM March 2, 2026] In the new one-man show written by David Cale, Sean Hayes stars as Elliott, a playwright and lyricist suffering from writer's block. But as he searches for something to write about, he begins to realize that he might be being stalked. Cale, Hayes, and director Leigh Silverman discuss "The Unknown," running at Studio Seaview through April 12. Photo courtesy of the production

Pickles and New York go hand in hand. A new book, The Pickled City: The Story of New York Pickles, explores how pickles evolved in the city, from immigration-driven delis on the Lower East Side to dedicated pickle stores like The Pickle Guys. Authors Paul van Ravestein and Monique Mulder, who are also the principals of Mattmo, a branding agency in Amsterdam specializing in culinary history, discuss their research and interest in pickle history alongside Alan Kaufman, owner of The Pickle Guys. Plus, listeners share their favorite kind of pickle. Photo by WDnet via Wikimedia Commons

'The Travel Companion' is a new independent film that tells the story of Simon, a struggling documentary filmmaker, and his friendship with Bruce, an airline worker who invites Simon to be his traveling companion for a year, meaning he can fly for free. But their relationship is complicated when Bruce meets Beatrice, a more successful filmmaker that challenges Simon's creative insecurities. The film, shot locally around New York, premieres at BAM April 10-16. Co-writers and directors Alex Mallis and Travis Wood discuss their inspiration for the story, and what it takes to make an indie film in 2026. Film still courtesy of Oscilloscope Laboratories

The new Steven Soderbergh film "The Christophers" follows siblings who hire an art forger, played by Michaela Coel, to pretend to be an art dealer in order to acquire and finish their estranged father's paintings. Coel, who stars alongside Ian McKellen in the film, discusses her role in "The Christophers," in select theaters now. Coel also stars in the film "Mother Mary" alongside Anne Hathaway, which hits theaters on April 17. Image courtesy of the studio  

For many people, the decision of whether to let their hair go grey naturally, or to begin dyeing it, is a fraught and complicated one. Vanessa Friedman, New York Times fashion director and chief fashion critic, discussed the topic in a recent edition of her column "Ask Vanessa," and shares insights with listeners. Plus, listeners share their thoughts on going grey, or not! Photo via Professor25/Getty Creative

Julie Mehretu is a Macarthur Genius-winning artist, born in Ethiopia and based in New York. Her latest exhibit, 'Our Days, Like a Shadow (a non-abiding hauntology)', features new paintings made in the last few years. The show opens at Marian Goodman Gallery at 385 Broadway on April 14. Mehretu previews the exhibit, and discusses her installation at The Obama Presidential Center, which opens in June. Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

If something in pop culture — a movie, a TV show, a song or viral content — is especially popular, how does that change your eagerness to engage with it and be part of the conversation? Atlantic contributing writer Anna Holmes considers herself someone who avoids pop culture particularly popular in the present, like 'The Pitt,' and she's not alone. Holmes discusses her reporting in her recent Atlantic article, "The People Who Shun Super-Popular Pop Culture," and listeners share the culture they've avoided due to its popularity. Image by Jaque Silva/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The new Broadway adaptation of the classic film "Dog Day Afternoon" stars Jon Bernthal as Sonny, an intense but loveable bank robber, and Jessica Hecht as Colleen, a level-headed bank teller. Bernthal and Hecht discuss the play, running now at the August Wilson Theatre through July 12. Photos by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

There are many songs that could be described as political or that overtly address social issues. But more rarely has a song been so impactful as to directly influence American political and legal history. In the new book On the Record: Music that Changed America, Anna Celenza shares the stories of songs like Billie Holiday's “Strange Fruit” and Aaron Copland's Appalachian Spring that have inspired legislative change. We also take calls from listeners about the political songs that have stuck with them. Photo by Wally McNamee/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

It's the time of year when many New York City leases end, and people around the city are embarking on that stressful task: moving! Dorie Chevlen and Kit Dillon of Wirecutter join to walk listeners through their comprehensive guide for how to tackle moving in New York. Plus, listeners share their tips for how to survive a move. Photo by TheMuuj

The beloved Central Park restaurant Tavern on the Green has been open for 90+ years. Now, a new cookbook from executive chef Bill Peet allows home cooks to attempt to make some of their classic recipes in their own kitchens. Peet, and Tavern on the Green co-owner Jim Caiola, join to discuss Tavern on the Green Cookbook: Seasonal Recipes and Historical Treasures from New York City's Iconic Restaurant. Plus, listeners share their favorite memories of Tavern on the Green. Photo by Deb Cohn-Orbach/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Grammy award-winning Mexican singer/songwriter Natalia Lafourcade's latest album is titled Cancionera. She's kicking off her tour for it by playing two days at the BAM. Ahead of those shows, she joins us for a listening party. Photo by Carlos Manuel

In the latest novel from author Emma Straub, a newly-divorced woman named Annie reluctantly goes on a cruise with her sister, a cruise designed for fans of one 90s era boy band. But Annie's experience changes when she meets a member of the band who is lonely, and looking for a friend. Straub discusses American Fantasy, out today. Straub will be speaking with Lin Manuel Miranda on April 7 at 7 pm at the First Unitarian Church.

In the latest work of investigative journalism from Patrick Radden Keefe, the author attempts to get to the bottom of the mysterious death of Zac Brettler, a British teenager who plunged to his death from a luxury building in 2019. After his death, it was revealed that Brettler had been living a secret life, one that involved shady characters in the London underworld. Keefe discusses his new book, London Falling: A Mysterious Death in a Gilded City and a Family's Search for Truth, out today. Keefe will be speaking on April 7 at the 92Y with Sarah Jessica Parker.

The April "Get Lit with All Of It" book club selection is the novel Lake Effect by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney. It follows one woman's affair in 1970s Rochester... and the continued fallout years later as she lives in New York City and prepares to attend a family wedding. D'Aprix Sweeney discusses the novel ahead of the April 27th "Get Lit" event. Click here to grab your tickets and find out how to borrow your e-copy of the novel, courtesy of The New York Public Library.

April kicks off a busy season for books, with many big name authors publishing great new reads. All Of It and "Get Lit" producer Jordan Lauf discusses some of the new books you can pick up this spring. Plus, listeners recommend books they've been reading and loving. Photo by Jordan Lauf/WNYC

In the new novel Yesteryear, a popular tradwife influencer finds herself confronting the harsh realities of the lifestyle she promotes when she mysteriously is sent back in time to 1855. Author Caro Claire Burke discusses the novel, out April 7. Burke will be speaking on April 7 at Symphony Space at 7 pm. Cover art courtesy of Knopf

The series "The Testaments," which is based on Margaret Atwood's novel, is set in the same universe as The Handmaid's Tale. It follows Agnes, a teenager attending an elite prep school for future wives. Actor Chase Infinity talks about the series, along with creator/showrunner Bruce Miller, ahead of its April 8th premiere on Hulu. Still courtesy of Disney+