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Person of The Week

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TIME Senior Correspondent Charlotte Alter hosts candid conversations with the people who shape the world, about the forces that shape them. Tune in each Thursday to meet TIME's Person of the Week.

Location:

United States

Description:

TIME Senior Correspondent Charlotte Alter hosts candid conversations with the people who shape the world, about the forces that shape them. Tune in each Thursday to meet TIME's Person of the Week.

Language:

English


Episodes

Henry Louis Gates, Jr. • Presenting The Past

3/28/2024
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. is a renowned historian, author, scholar, filmmaker, and is the Director of the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard University. This week, Gates joins host Charlotte Alter and reflects on his formative years in the working-class mill town of Piedmont, West Virginia, his early education during the pivotal era of school desegregation, and his experiences watching the civil rights movement unfold in America. The pair delve into the power of genealogy, as Gates shares insights from his groundbreaking series "Finding Your Roots," and discusses how uncovering family histories can provide profound understanding of American heritage, individual identity, and the interconnectedness of all people beneath the surface of skin color. In discussing Gates’ latest book, “The Black Box: Writing The Race,” the pair unpack the significance of "checking boxes” in today’s shifting landscape of racial discourse and cultural identity, the history and future of affirmative action, and how the backlash to America’s first Black presidency has impacted how Gates teaches African American studies. Tune in for a deeply informative look into the narratives that shape our understanding of race, history, and ourselves. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:34:50

David Axelrod • Winning Strategy

3/21/2024
David Axelrod is a preeminent political strategist and the mastermind behind some of the most successful political campaigns in American history. This week, David sits down with host Charlotte Alter and shares his journey from his childhood in New York City to the halls of the Obama White House, with more than a few stops in Chicago along the way. David reflects on his early political awakenings, the unmatched education he received at The Chicago Tribune, and what ultimately drove him from journalism to political strategy. Axelrod also shares unique insight into the evolving landscape of American politics, the 2024 presidential race, the transformative impact of social media on political campaigning, and what it will take to secure victory in November’s election. Tune in for a conversation that reveals the mind and soul of a political strategist who has been at the heart of American democracy for decades. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:34:40

Kate Cox • The Legal Fight for Care

3/14/2024
Kate Cox, a Texas mother of two, was thrilled to find out she was pregnant with her third child last year. But the dream of expanding her family quickly turned into a nightmare when Cox and her husband were told that their fetus had an anomaly called Trisomy 18 that, in their case, was fatal. In December 2023, Cox asked a Texas court to temporarily block the state's abortion ban so she could receive urgent medical care, becoming the first pregnant woman to sue for the right to terminate her pregnancy since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Kate Cox recently attended the State of the Union as a guest of the Bidens’ and, on this week’s episode, sits down with Charlotte Alter to share her story. Tune in for an intimate and moving conversation about the grim realities that pregnant people face in post-Roe America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:32:12

Jennifer Lame • On The Cutting Edge

3/7/2024
Jennifer Lame is a remarkably talented film editor, whose keen eye and unique storytelling abilities have contributed to some of the most iconic films of our time. From her early days as an apprentice to Sidney Lumet to her celebrated work with writers and directors like Noah Baumbach, Christopher Nolan, Ryan Coogler and Ari Aster, Jennifer shares her incredible journey to the top of the film industry with host Charlotte Alter on this week’s show. Jennifer takes us behind-the-scenes of sculpting some of "Oppenheimer's" most monumental moments, and recounts the moment she learned that she was nominated for her first Academy Award. Lame opens up about how a childhood fascination with Alfred Hitchcock and afternoons spent in video stores sparked her passion for film, and why movie theater popcorn is an essential part of the cinematic experience. Tune in for an inspiring look into the art of filmmaking with someone who shapes the movies that move and enchant us all. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:31:49

Kara Swisher • Decrypting Silicon Valley

2/29/2024
Kara Swisher is a titan in the realms of tech journalism and media. Known for her fearless interviews with the biggest names in Silicon Valley and her incisive commentary on the tech industry, Kara sits down with host Charlotte Alter to share insights from her latest book, "Burn Book: A Tech Love Story." The pair discuss Swisher’s early days chronicling the rise of the internet, the transformations of the media industry over recent decades, and the perplexing gap between Silicon Valley's innovation and governmental oversight. Recounting tales from her book, Kara shares an insider's perspective on the personalities who've shaped the digital age and why, despite its pitfalls, she remains hopeful about technology's potential for good. Tune in for a riveting discussion of the "what" and "how" of technological evolution and the complex relationship between technology and humanity. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:31:52

Claudia Goldin • Women and the Workforce

2/22/2024
Distinguished economist Claudia Goldin is the Henry Lee Professor of Economics at Harvard University, the 2023 Nobel Prize Laureate in Economic Sciences, and one of TIME’s 2024 Women of The Year. This week, host Charlotte Alter sits down with Goldin for a captivating conversation on the evolution of women's participation in the workforce. Claudia shares the exhilarating moment she was awarded the Nobel Prize and her path to discovering a deep-seated passion for economics, and sheds light on the complex intersection of economics and gender equality. The pair also discuss Claudia's unconventional advice to her students about planning their futures and her reflections on the new lifecycle of women’s employment. Tune in for a masterclass on the economic history of the American woman, and enlightening lessons on progress, policy, and personal growth. Read more about Claudia Goldin’s groundbreaking work and all of TIME’s 2024 Women of The Year here: https://time.com/collection/women-of-the-year/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:33:57

Danielle Brooks • Owning Her Power

2/15/2024
Danielle Brooks, an award-winning actress and singer who has captivated audiences from Broadway to the big screen, sits down with host Charlotte Alter in this week's episode. Fresh from her acclaimed role as ‘Sofia’ in the film adaptation of “The Color Purple” musical, Danielle shares her journey from an arts education in South Carolina to the set of her anticipated “Minecraft” movie. She delves into the impact of her church roots on her artistic expression, her thoughtful process for selecting roles, how marriage and motherhood have shaped her work, and her deep connection to the story, characters and legacy of “The Color Purple.” Brooks also shares a behind-the-scenes look at her days on “Orange Is the New Black,” and reveals the secrets behind hosting an unforgettable game night. Tune in for a moving conversation filled with laughter, song, and the power of storytelling. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:38:28

Sheila Heti • Writing New Realities

2/8/2024
Sheila Heti is a beacon of contemporary literature, renowned for her unique narrative voice and groundbreaking novels such as "Pure Colour," "Motherhood," and "How Should a Person Be?" This week, Sheila joins host Charlotte Alter to discuss her latest literary endeavor, "Alphabetical Diaries," a profound exploration of life distilled from a decade's worth of diary entries, showcasing her innovative approach to storytelling. The pair delve into the intricate relationship between fiction and reality in Heti’s work, and unpack the concept of "autofiction," a term frequently associated with her inventive writing style. Sheila reflects on the evolution of her writing style and her recent experiments with artificial intelligence in crafting narratives. Join Charlotte, Sheila, and Sheila’s dog Feldman for a deep dive into the art of writing, the blurring of life and literature, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity in modern storytelling. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:36:19

Jon Batiste • Harmonizing an American Symphony

2/1/2024
This week, host Charlotte Alter sits down with Jon Batiste, a celebrated musician, composer, and bandleader with deep Louisiana roots. Known as the "crown prince of jazz," Batiste's journey spans from New Orleans' vibrant streets to Juilliard's halls, extending to international acclaim. Charlotte and Jon discuss the formation of his band, Stay Human, Batiste’s tenure on “The Stephen Colbert Show,” his Grammy-winning 2022 album "We Are," and the resilience portrayed in his 2023 film "American Symphony." Jon delves into the challenges and victories documented in the film, and the inspiration behind his Oscar-nominated song "It Never Went Away." They also cover his latest album, "World Music Radio," and his upcoming "Uneasy Tour," which focuses on social change and voter registration. Tune in for an insightful look into one of the greatest artistic minds today, and a celebration of the unique musical perspective, commitment to healing, community building, and spreading joy that Jon Batiste shares with the world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:33:56

Lulu Wang • Navigating New Narratives

1/25/2024
Filmmaker Lulu Wang is known for her poignant storytelling and unique voice in cinema. This week, Wang joins host Charlotte Alter to take us behind the scenes of her latest project, the Amazon series “Expats,” starring Nicole Kidman. The pair delve into Wang's vision for the series and its impactful exploration of privilege, home, family, and motherhood. They also journey back to the biographical roots of Wang's acclaimed 2019 film, “The Farewell,” unraveling the personal connections and experiences that fueled its creation. Tune in for an insightful look into the power of storytelling in connecting cultures, and discover how Wang’s own journey from her early life in China to her initial steps into the world of LA filmmaking have shaped the stories she tells. "Expats" premieres on Amazon Prime Video on January 26th. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:31:39

Sarah Longwell • Defending Democracy

1/18/2024
In the second of two episodes focused on the forces shaping the modern GOP, Sarah Longwell, a formidable figure in the political communications world and a leading Republican strategist, joins host Charlotte Alter to discuss the 2024 Iowa Republican presidential caucus and the implications of Donald Trump's win for the upcoming election season. As the President and CEO of Longwell Partners and the driving force behind several influential political organizations, Sarah shares an insider's look at the transformation of the Republican Party over the past two decades and voters’ enduring support for Trump. The first female national board chair of the Log Cabin Republicans, Longwell recounts how her early life in rural Pennsylvania sparked her interest in politics and reflects on the challenges and triumphs of navigating identity in politics. Tune in for a compelling exploration of one woman's mission to rebuild trust in American institutions and foster understanding among diverse points of view. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:31:28

Tim Alberta • Inside the American Evangelical Electorate

1/11/2024
Tim Alberta, a distinguished journalist and author renowned for his deep dives into American politics, joins host Charlotte Alter for an insightful and personal conversation on faith, politics, and the evolving American landscape. Known for his best-selling book "American Carnage" and his incisive reporting for The Atlantic, Alberta recounts his early life growing up in the church and the intellectual journey with Christianity that influenced his worldview. Discussing his latest book, “The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism” Alberta explores the complex relationship between Evangelical Christians and American politics and shares his unique perspectives into the cultural and political factors at play. This discussion is particularly timely as the pair examine the potential impact of the Evangelical voting bloc on the upcoming Iowa Republican caucus and the broader implications for the 2024 presidential election. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that cuts to the core of America's political and cultural divides. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:32:27

Mark Ruffalo • Heartland to Hollywood

1/4/2024
This week, host Charlotte Alter is joined by award-winning actor and activist Mark Ruffalo, for a captivating conversation on his Hollywood journey. Ruffalo shares stories about his childhood in Wisconsin and Virginia and the path that led him to discover his passion for acting. He opens up about the influential time he spent studying under the legendary Stella Adler and reflects on how each role he’s played has shaped his career. Ruffalo shares unique insight into the impact Marvel movies have had on the film landscape and takes us behind the scenes of his latest role in Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Poor Things.” Ruffalo also discusses his dedication to climate activism, revealing how his personal beliefs intersect with his professional life, and what drove him to take up the causes he fights for. Mark Ruffalo and Gloria Walton on Climate Solutions: Let’s Fund Communities ‘Like We Want Them To Win’ | TIME • https://time.com/collection/earth-awards-2023/6274444/mark-ruffalo-and-gloria-walton-local-climate-solutions/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:30:19

Sam Altman • CEO of The Year

12/14/2023
This week, host Charlotte Alter is joined by TIME Executive Editor Naina Bajekal and Tech Correspondent Billy Perrigo to hear how OpenAI revolutionized technology this year, and why Sam Altman was chosen as TIME's 2023 CEO of the Year. Later, Altman joins Editor in Chief Sam Jacobs on stage at TIME's Person of the Year event on December 12th in New York City. The pair cover everything from the the turmoil at OpenAI, to next year's election, to, of course, Taylor Swift. We're going on a short holiday hiatus, but we'll be back in January with brand-new episodes about what shapes the people who shape the world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:23:51

Person of The Year

12/6/2023
As you've probably heard by now, TIME's 2023 Person of The Year is Taylor Swift. In this special bonus episode, host Charlotte Alter sits down with TIME’s Editor in Chief, Sam Jacobs, and Senior Executive Editor, Kelly Conniff, for a behind-the-scenes look at the history of TIME's legendary, annual Person of the Year issue and to hear all the reasons why Taylor Swift is this year's Person of The Year. Person of The Year 2023: Taylor Swift | TIME https://time.com/6342806/person-of-the-year-2023-taylor-swift/ For all of TIME's 2023 Person of the Year coverage, visit time.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:24:18

Team of The Year | Red Border by TIME

12/5/2023
Every year, TIME recognizes a person or group whose done the most to influence the events of the last 365 days. This year, we partnered with Smartsheet to celebrate teamwork by honoring an enterprise whose commitment to communication, collaboration, and innovation made a significant impact on the world. In this special bonus episode, you'll hear how Pfizer’s women leaders are breaking barriers in vaccine science, how the social impact team at HP is accelerating digital equity for 150 million people worldwide, and how the research and development team at Syngenta is driving innovation in agriculture. Join us as we hear from some of the top companies that are driving meaningful change and the people who make it all possible – and learn how some of the most successful teams in the world operate today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:21:29

Cord Jefferson • Exposing American Fiction

11/30/2023
This week, host Charlotte Alter welcomes Cord Jefferson – the Emmy award-winning writer and director, known for his work on shows like ‘Succession,’ 'Watchmen' and 'The Good Place.' As Jefferson prepares for the theatrical release of his directorial debut, 'American Fiction,' he shares insight into how the film came to life, and the stories behind its story. Retracing his journey from seasoned journalist to Hollywood stalwart, the pair explore how his early days in Tucson, Arizona influenced both his worldview and his work, and Jefferson candidly discusses the challenges faced by Black creators and the often-unfair pigeonholing the face at the hands of industry gatekeepers. Tune in for a fun and thoughtful conversation with one of the most dynamic figures in modern storytelling, and check out ‘American Fiction’ in theaters on December 15. • www.mgm.com/movies/american-fiction See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:29:32

Brian Chesky • Designing Trust

11/16/2023
This week, host Charlotte Alter welcomes visionary entrepreneur Brian Chesky, the co-founder and CEO of Airbnb. Chesky recounts how a simple idea between friends transformed into a global phenomenon that reinvented how people perceive and interact with strangers, and shares insights into how his artistic background and childhood travel experiences uniquely shape his approach to business, leadership, and community-building strategies. The pair discuss the complex regulations that Airbnb navigates from country to country and its role in the conversation around affordable housing in cities around the world. Tune in for a candid conversation on the personal side of entrepreneurship, an exclusive look at the latest updates on the Airbnb app, and an enlightening journey into the world of Airbnb, where design, trust, and community come together to redefine the essence of travel and hospitality. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:33:54

Gabby Douglas • Defying Gravity

11/9/2023
This week, host Charlotte Alter is joined by Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas, the trailblazing superstar athlete whose aerial feats have etched her name in history. Gabby recounts the sacrifices of leaving home at a young age to pursue greatness and how her life changed overnight following her 2012 Olympic triumph. In discussing the pressures of fame and the focus required to remain at the peak, Gabby opens up about her decision to step back from the spotlight after the 2016 Olympics and her triumphant return to the sport with eyes set on Paris 2024. Tune in for a deep dive into the life of an extraordinary athlete who continues to redefine what it means to soar. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:26:02

Tim McGraw • Standing Together

11/2/2023
This week, host Charlotte Alter is joined in-studio by legendary country music superstar Tim McGraw. They journey back in time to Tim's childhood in Louisiana and the moment he discovered that his father was famous baseball player Tug McGraw, and revisit Tim’s early years playing in local restaurants and clubs before breaking out and onto the biggest stages in the world. Tim gives us an inside look at the creative collaborations and positive vibes behind his latest album "Standing Room Only," and shares the secrets to a happy marriage from his union with fellow superstar Faith Hill. On the eve of off-year elections around the country, Tim shares his views on the current political divide in America, his passion for studying American history, the importance of supporting women's rights, and his thoughts on the potential presidential candidates. Tune in to an episode packed with heartfelt stories, insightful conversation, and some laughs along the way! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duration:00:31:22