Studs Terkel Archive Podcast

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Selections from the WFMT collection of Terkel’s radio interviews, delivered several times each week. An unofficial feed.

Ben Welsh


    • Aug 23, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 40m AVG DURATION
    • 219 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Studs Terkel Archive Podcast is a fascinating and thought-provoking journey through the decades, taking listeners to conventions of brilliant minds whose voices we should have listened to. This podcast acts as a time machine, transporting us to different eras and allowing us to hear the wisdom and warnings of influential figures. From John Wicklein discussing the loss of privacy in the 80s, to James Baldwin shedding light on persistent issues in 1970, and even Shel Silverstein's critique of society in 1962, each episode offers a nugget of wisdom that could have made the world a better place if only we had truly listened.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is its ability to showcase voices from various decades. By featuring interviews with individuals from different time periods, listeners gain a deeper understanding of historical context and can identify recurring themes or challenges that persist throughout the years. The range of topics covered is impressive, providing intellectual stimulation and valuable insights into social issues, politics, art, and more. The interviews are thoughtfully curated and highlight Terkel's exceptional skills as a journalist who was able to engage his subjects in meaningful conversations.

    On the other hand, there may be some aspects of this podcast that some listeners might find disappointing. While it features interviews with brilliant minds from different eras, it does not necessarily offer new perspectives or insights for those already well-versed in these historical figures or their works. Some episodes might also feel repetitive or lack diversity in terms of interview subjects or themes discussed. Additionally, some listeners may prefer a more structured format with clearer introductions or context provided for each interviewee.

    In conclusion, The Studs Terkel Archive Podcast is an invaluable resource for those interested in hearing the voices of influential figures from various decades. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with historical interviews and gain a deeper understanding of societal issues and cultural changes over time. While there may be some limitations or areas for improvement, this podcast captures the essence of Studs Terkel's journalistic brilliance and provides a platform for important conversations that should have been listened to more carefully.



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    Latest episodes from Studs Terkel Archive Podcast

    The Walawa Basies talk with Studs Terkel ; part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2024 54:31


    First broadcast on January 14, 1969. Studs Terkel interviews the members of the Walawa Basies: Kelvin Strong, Orlando Lucas, and Levon Campbell.

    The Walawa Basies talk with Studs Terkel ; part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2024 52:00


    First broadcast on January 14, 1969. Studs Terkel interviews the members of the Walawa Basies: Kelvin Strong, Orlando Lucas, Levon Campbell, and Justine Cordwell. This is an Interview done in two parts

    Barbara Kingsolver discusses her book "Holding the Line: Women in the Great Arizona Mine Strike of 1983"

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2024 46:41


    First broadcast on September 17, 1990. Since no men were allowed to picket against the Phelps Dodge Corp., Mexican American women showed up and according to Kingsolver's book, “Holding the Line,” the picket lines were a brand new experience for the women. Some of the women had to get their husbands' permission to picket. The group of women found their lives transformed not only with their cause but with new bonds of friendship from the other women.

    Derek Walcott discusses poetry and his play "Dream on Monkey Mountain"

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2024 52:29


    First broadcast on April 11, 1972. Colonial West Indies & Caribbean poet Derek Walcott talks about the traditions of poetry not purely being just the written words. Poetry, says Walcott, is also oral poetry that's found in folk songs, folk tales and calypso music. Walcott's play, "Dream on Monkey Mountain" is about Makak, an old hermit who lived on Monkey Mountain his whole life, and was now being kicked off the mountain.

    Daniel Boorstin discuses his book "The Image: A Guide to Pseudo-Events in America"

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2024 0:01


    Discussing the book "The Image: A Guide to Pseudo-Events in America" and interviewing the author Professor Daniel Boorstin.

    america guide boorstin pseudo events
    Brian Dennehy discusses the Goodman Theater's production of "A Touch of a Poet"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2024 48:10


    A young white cabbie talks with Studs Terkel

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2024 47:58


    First broadcast on March 26, 1962. Interviewing a young white cabbie and farewell comments on the plane ride home when Studs traveled home from Montgomery, Alabama.

    Fred W. Friendly discusses his book "Due to Circumstances Beyond Our Control"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2024 1:26


    Studs Terkel interviews Fred W. Friendly to promote his book "Due to Circumstances Beyond Our Control." Although this interview seems to be the conclusion of a longer discussion, Friendly offers two key points: we should learn from a crisis to better handle the next one and television will shape the world. Duration 1:26. (Part 2 of 2)

    Fred W. Friendly discusses his book "Due to Circumstances Beyond Our Control" and his career, part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2024 25:22


    Fred W. Friendly discusses his book "Due to Circumstances Beyond Our Control" and his career. Fred W. Friendly discusses television and mass media. (Part 1 of 2)

    Eugene J. McCarthy in conversation with Studs Terkel

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2024 51:43


    First broadcast on November 07, 1977.

    Discussing the young vs. adults with teenagers at Saint Timothy Elementary School

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2024 43:06


    Studs Terkel presents a roundtable conversation with children ranging from ages 13-17. They discuss relationships with their family members, other students, growing up in Chicago, and race relations in the U.S.

    Discussing the book "The Other America" with Michael Harrington.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 50:57


    First broadcast on July 01, 1964.

    Discussing a trip to the Soviet Union with Sharon Tennison and Barbara Rinnan of The Center for Citizen Initiatives (CCI)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2024 19:03


    First broadcast on February 01, 1985. CCI maintains citizen-to-citizen networks between the US and the USSR in an attempt to empower ordinary citizens to take responsibility.

    Ben Kingsley discusses his file "Gandhi" with Studs Terkel, then actress Anabella discusses her film and theatrical career

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2024 57:45


    Brother John Sellers discusses his career as a blues artist and how church music inspired his music

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2024 36:56


    First broadcast on July 02, 1982. Studs interviews Brother John Sellers about his career and other blues singers. Sellers explains that religion influenced his music as did performers like Mahalia Jackson, Big Bill Broonzy, and Muddy Waters. Studs reads some of the lyrics of blues song, "In the Evening." Sellers describes street singers and blind singers. He describes the music and style of Jackson and Broonzy and some of his own songs. Sellers performs "Talk About A Child" and "Sally Go Round the Sunshine" live on the program. Studs and Sellers read together some of the lyrics of "Bo Weavil." Most musical pieces are removed from this edited version of the original recording.

    Discussing the book "Get Shorty" with the author Elmore Leonard

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2024 53:22


    First broadcast on July 31, 1991.

    Studs Terkel discusses race relations and economic disparity with four Chicago area women ; part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2024 25:29


    First broadcast on January 27, 1965. Studs discusses race relations and economic disparity with four Chicago area women in a program entitled "Each of us can act". This recording was the last of a 6-part series, "Rearing the Child of Good Will", broadcast under the auspices of the National Conference of Christians and Jews. The series focused on prejudice, race, religion, and community. Interviewees are: Madeline Bonsigniore of Chicago's south suburbs Naomi Brodky of the Marynook neighborhood of Chicago Lynn Williams of Winnetka, IL Harriet White of the NCCJ The discussion begins with a snipped from Terkel's interview with "Jimmy" a 17-year old African American male who had been involved with gangs on the Chicago's west side. Other topics of discussion include racial integration, schools, and home ownership.

    Studs Terkel discusses race relations and economic disparity with four Chicago area women ; part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2024 29:51


    First broadcast on January 27, 1965. Studs discusses race relations and economic disparity with four Chicago area women in a program entitled "Each of us can act". This recording was the last of a 6-part series, "Rearing the Child of Good Will", broadcast under the auspices of the National Conference of Christians and Jews. The series focused on prejudice, race, religion, and community. Interviewees are: Madeline Bonsigniore of Chicago's south suburbs Naomi Brodky of the Marynook neighborhood of Chicago Lynn Williams of Winnetka, IL Harriet White of the NCCJ The discussion begins with a snipped from Terkel's interview with "Jimmy" a 17-year old African American male who had been involved with gangs on the Chicago's west side. Other topics of discussion include racial integration, schools, and home ownership.

    Discussing a tour of the Berlin Wall with author Ursula Bender

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2024 25:42


    Discussing the book "Hoop Dreams: A True Story of Hardship and Triumph" with the author Ben Joravsky

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2024 53:03


    First broadcast on May 17, 1995.

    Discussing the struggle for democratic rule in South Africa with President of the African National Congress and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Zulu Chief Albert John Luthuli

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2024 53:57


    Henry Fonda and John Houseman discuss the play "Clarence Darrow"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2024 32:21


    Henry Fonda and John Houseman talk about working with one another on "Clarence Darrow: A One-Man Play". Houseman is in awe of Fonda's portrayal of Clarence Darrow, explaining that in the play, the audience can really see the growth of Clarence Darrow, from a young lawyer to an experienced, wise one. Fonda talks about the opening scene when Darrow recalls his father talking to him when he was a young boy. Fonda reflects on times when his father talked to him. Fonda recalls being taught not to hate individuals.

    Interviewing Chicagoan Kid Pharaoh ; part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2024 51:34


    An interview with Kid Pharoh, a former prize fighter, is included in Terkel's book, "Division Street: America."

    Interviewing Chicagoan Kid Pharaoh : part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2024 67:35


    An interview with Kid Pharoh, a former prize fighter, is included in Terkel's book, "Division Street: America."

    Interview in Montgomery, Alabama

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2024 49:09


    First broadcast on March 25, 1965. Interviewing in Montgomery, Alabama on March 25, 1965 (Montgomery #1). Speaks with Reverend William Franklin Pascal, cab driver, two barbers

    French humorist Jacques Tati talks with Studs Terkel

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2024 31:58


    First broadcast on November 01, 1962. Filmmaker Jacques Tati and Studs discuss finding the humor in everyday life and people becoming their gadgets. The two also go in-depth about Tati's film "Mon Oncle" and the development of the character Monsieur Hulot.

    Excerpts from the Division Street recordings Oral Histories, regarding race, religion and humanity

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2024 26:26


    Studs presents excerpts from the Division Street recordings, regarding race, religion and humanity.

    Edward Albee discusses the arts and the meaning of plays

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2024 29:15


    First broadcast on December 31, 1967. Every play is political and art isn't easy, according to Edward Albee. People need to realize that going to the theatre is an arena of engagement rather than one of escapism, says Albee. Due to people's lack of knowledge and self-awareness, we in society, we deserve everything bad that we get, are also part of Albee's views.

    Lawrence Ferlinghetti discusses his poetry

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2024 20:13


    First broadcast on October 15, 1959. Includes Lawrence Ferlinghetti reading and discussing his poems from his books "A Coney Island State of Mind" and "Big Table."

    Allen Ginsberg discusses poetry and meditation

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2024 45:14


    First broadcast on November 29, 1976. Studs Terkel and Allen Ginsberg talk about poetry, meditation, and the shifting of American socio-political consciousness between the 50's and 70's.

    Chicago residents Alice and Bob Taylor talk with Studs Terkel

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2024 0:01


    Recorded in the Taylor's home against a backdrop of sounds created by a nine-children family, Studs, Alice and Bob discuss aspects of a white family living in a predominately African-American amidst an exodus of the white, Christian community. Includes a performance of "Onward, Christian Soldiers" by the family around their piano, and "Jesus Loves Me" by two of the children.

    Discussing and reading from the book "Shoeless Joe"with W. P. Kinsella

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2024 47:24


    First broadcast on May 24, 1982.

    Discussing the book "Maus: Survivor's Tale" with the artist and author Art Spiegelman

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2024 54:52


    First broadcast on October 01, 1986.

    Discussing the triple revolution with Bayard Rustin, W. H. Ferry and Ralph Helstein ; part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2024 29:39


    Discussing the triple revolution with Bayard Rustin, W. H. Ferry and Ralph Helstein ; part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2024 28:26


    First broadcast on August 01, 1964. Discussion about the triple revolution

    Dick Gregory discusses his career

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2024 58:15


    First broadcast on May 14, 1970. Lillian Smith excerpt opens the program.

    Bill Ayers discussing education and Ayers's book "To Teach: The Journey of a Teacher"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2024 49:22


    First broadcast on June 23, 1993.

    Wynton Marsalis discusses his musical upbringing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2024 16:47


    First broadcast on November 05, 1985. Terkel comments and presents a musical performance by Wynton Marsalis

    Studs Terkel discusses adults with young adults

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2024 23:37


    Discussing adults with young people. Subjects are: Ed Bocsel, age 16 Becky Milton, age 24 Chick Marmor, age 19 Stacy Goings, age 22 Danny Paul Yates, age 17 Paul Me, age 19 Jerry J., age 20 Lucky Miller, age 19 Lily, age 16 Topics include: Relationships with adults and family members, social alienation, religion, the Vietnam War, and the rise of corporate America overtaking local businesses.

    Leonard Bernstein discusses his career, music, and education

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2023 38:30


    First broadcast on February 01, 1985. Leonard Bernstein discusses his career as a composer along with his thoughts on American culture, musical theater, Black music, classical music, and education; music is played throughout the program including songs from Marc Blitzstein's play "The Cradle Will Rock."

    Anita O'Day discusses her career

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2023 26:41


    First broadcast on May 21, 1975. Studs Terkel interviews jazz musician Anita O'Day.

    Discussing the book "Hocus Pocus" with the author, novelist Kurt Vonnegut

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2023 53:43


    First broadcast on October 11, 1990.

    Gloria Steinem discusses the 10th anniversary of "Ms." magazine

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2023 56:25


    First broadcast on June 17, 1982. According to Gloria Steinem, "Ms." magazine is not only a national feminist magazine, but it's also a portable friend. A regular feature of the magazine is to celebrate found women, women who are not celebrities but who should be celebrated for what they do. This interview also includes an excerpt of Aunt Molly Jackson.

    Odetta talks about her music career with Studs Terkel

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2023 33:55


    Odetta (often referred as "The Voice of the Civil Rights Movement") talks about her music career and sings to Studs Terkel. The interview segments are between songs. This record is part of the Studs Terkel Almanac.

    Ralph Nader discusses his book "Unsafe at Any Speed"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2023 32:31


    Studs, teachers and students have a conversation at a high school where there is controversy over the use of the book "Working"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023 55:37


    Discussing the controversy over the use of the book "Working" by author Studs Terkel in a senior vocational class. Interviews with Kay Nichols, teacher, and two high school classes, as well as Bob Burns and Jim Richardson. The students talk of how the "bad" language in the book is heard from their peers on a daily basis and they don't find it offensive. [recorded in Girard, Pennsylvania]

    Stokely Carmichael, Charlie Cobb, and Courtland Cox discuss the SNCC ; part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2023 34:47


    First broadcast on July 23, 1965. Stokely Carmichael, Charlie Cobb, and Courtland Cox discuss civil rights and African Americans in politics. Discussing the philosophy of SNCC.

    Stokely Carmichael, Charlie Cobb, and Courtland Cox discuss the SNCC ; part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2023 39:24


    First broadcast on July 23, 1965. Stokely Carmichael, Charlie Cobb, and Courtland Cox discuss civil rights and African Americans in politics. Discussing the philosophy of SNCC.

    John Malkovich and Gary Sinise discuss the film "Of Mice and Men"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2023 47:03


    First broadcast on September 29, 1981. Studs Terkel discusses the upcoming new film "Of Mice and Men", based on the novel written by John Steinbeck with the starring actors, John Malkovich (Lennie) and Gary Sinise (George). The program begins with the opening excerpt from the play "Of Mice and Men" featuring Terkel (George) and Win Stracke (Lennie) from 1952, which then leads into Malkovich and Sinise's interpretation of the rest of the scene. Folk singer Utah Phillips song "On the Goodnight Loving Trail" is presented as a comparison to themes expressed in "Of Mice and Men". During this program they discuss the following: tackling the characters; the interpretation of the relationship between George and Lennie; universal themes; and the other characters.

    Interviewing Francois Truffaut director of "400 Blows"

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2023 36:07


    First broadcast on January 27, 1960.

    Barrett Deems discusses jazz drumming

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2023 29:10


    First broadcast on March 27, 1979. Barrett Deems discusses his upbringing where he began drumming at age 4 and recalls touring with Louis Armstrong and other musicians. He also talks about meeting drummers in Africa. Music is played throughout: "Flip"- Joe Venuti, "Shine"- Barrett Deems Hottet, "Now You Has Jazz"- Bing Crosby and Louis Armstrong (from "High Society"), "Muskrat Ramble"- Louis Armstrong, "Struttin' with Some Barbecue"- Louis Armstrong, "Slipped Disc"- Benny Goodman, "Stompin' at the Savoy"- Louis Armstrong. Music has been removed from this recording for copyright reasons.

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