In which Callen discusses his appreciation for mysteries that aren't scary; how his mom makes better Halloween costumes than you can buy at the store; the only segment of the PBS News Hour he makes time to watch; his dreams of composing a great song, writing a book, and and painting a famous painting; and SO MUCH MORE.  Callen also sets me straight about Mary Poppins' true disposition.  If you'd like to check out some of Callen's favorite book series, visit: Dav Pilkey (author of Captain Underpants, Dog Man, and more) A to Z Mysteries Encyclopedia Brown

In which Franklin talks about how his whole life is the strangest thing he's experienced, coaching a semi-pro ultimate frisbee team, what it's like to write for television in the current exploding TV environment, his love of US women's soccer, what it would be like to witness his parents' decision to immigrate to the US (where he was born) from Korea (where he was conceived), how an unexpected conversation with a religion professor at William and Mary inspired Franklin to pursue his desire to be a filmmaker, and more. Listen to the song Franklin mentioned-- In the Airplane Over the Sea by Neutral Milk Hotel.

In which Samara discusses the challenge and triumph of playing saxophone in "Hollywood Milestones," why she likes France and Michelle Obama, and the significance of playing cards with her grandma in Australia until 2am. Check out some of Samara's influences: Gossamer by Lois Lowry, Hamilton, and more.

In which Jennifer introduces me to Dorothy Dunnett, explains how she unintentionally became an expert on drone law, declares her love of red pandas, describes the impact that Stephen Sondheim's Sunday in the Park with George had on her life, and much more.

In which Emille Bryant, who I met unexpectedly in a teachers lounge, talks about the Japanese concept of IKIGAI, what he learned in the Air Force, how he's changed in 20 years, and why he admires Superman and Thor.

In which six-year-old Zeke discusses the Avengers, his desire to visit India (with a translator), his love of LEGOs, and more.

This is Zoe. She is 12. Zoe recently learned that she loves riding roller coasters. Now she also loves watching roller coaster videos on YouTube. Zoe has been asking to be featured on this podcast again for months, perhaps even years! I invite you to listen to this podcast to hear Zoe's insights about books, musical theater, martial arts, and more.

Quinn won the opportunity to be a featured guest on this podcast at an auction to benefit EvolveAll's move to a new studio. While I've known Quinn since he was a toddler, I didn't really much about him as a tween, except for what I've seen when he does martial arts, since he is in class with my daughter. I really enjoyed learning about Quinn's hobbies and interests, and now I know who to call next time I need help around the house or want to go out for sushi!

In which Byron talks about working as a Peace Corps volunteer teaching in Ukraine and Lesotho, being given a bar of soap by David Sedaris in Las Vegas, his dream of living in Africa, our mutual love of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency tv show and the beauty of Botswana, throwing free throws in the Barclays Arena in Brooklyn, making the choice to practice empathy in challenging circumstances, understanding that everything is political, and much more.

In which Kendra discusses the bizarre yet normal day-to-day life of a zoo veterinarian, the strangeness of living in a city without seasons, the profound experience of singing and silence in remote wilderness, and more. Learn more about the licking okapi, ET the walrus, the elephant, the porcupine (whose quills get everywhere!), and the adorable axolotl.