Every weekday between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Jim Braude and Margery Eagan speak with movers and shakers in Boston and beyond. They talk with everyone from government officials, to politicians, artists, academics and business leaders about the news of the day and what that news means for our community. Here is a roundup of five of the best conversations on Boston Public Radio in 2018.
1.In 'Sing, Unburied, Sing,' Novelist Jesmyn Ward Tells The Story Of A Road Trip Haunted By Ghosts
Many authors come through our studios, and one that really stood out to us this year was Jesmyn Ward. She’s the author of the hauntingly beautiful “Sing Unburied Sing,” which tells the story of a family’s odyssey through rural Mississippi’s past and present.
2.BPR Listeners Capture The Essence Of Their Neighborhoods With 'Zip Odes'
We’re lucky enough to be joined regularly by Richard Blanco, the nation’s fifth inaugural poet under Barack Obama. Earlier this summer he put out a fun challenge to our listeners: Come up with “Zip Odes,” or short poems, about your neighborhood. The results were creative and surprising.
3. City Councilor Ayanna Pressley: It's "Premature" To Take A Stand On Nancy Pelosi
One of the big political stories in Massachusetts this year was Boston City Councilor Ayanna Pressley's primary win over 10-term Congressman Michael Capuano. We interviewed Pressley multiple times leading up to the primaries — this was Boston Public Radio's first interview with her after she announced her candidacy. Here’s what she said about hot-button issues like Nancy Pelosi’s leadership.
4. Ethan Hawke On 'Blaze' And Making Art For Art’s Sake
Actor and director Ethan Hawke joined us at the Boston Public Library to discuss his latest project, “Blaze.” Keep an eye on “Blaze” during Oscar season.
5. In New Memoir, Steve Jobs' Daughter Finds Her Own Voice
Lisa Brennan-Jobs, the daughter of tech patron saint Steve Jobs, joined us to discuss her memoir, “Small Fry." The book shines as an insightful look on how to find your identity in the midst of a dysfunctional family.
