Sean Graham talks with Rosemary Pennington, author of Pop Islam: Seeing American Muslims in Popular Media. They discuss how Ms Marvel contributed to the book's origins, what forms of media are included in the book, and how stereotypes of Muslims are perpetuated in popular culture. They also chat about the challenges faced by Muslim stand-up comedians, how reality show editing influences perceptions, and how popular culture reflects society at large.

Historical Headline of the Week

Anika Steffen, "'Ms Marvel' treats being Muslim as ordinary - and that makes it extraordinary," NPR, June 17, 2022.

Sean Graham talks with Molly Schneider, author of Gold Dust on the Air: Television Anthology Drama and Midcentury American Culture. They talk about the origins of television anthologies, the transition from radio, and their popularity among audiences. They also discuss the role of anthologies in reflecting American culture, pushback from audiences and studios, and the legacy of anthologies and what they tell us about the significance of television programs.

Historical Headline of the Week

Joshua Rothman and Erin Overbey, "How TV Became Art," The New Yorker, August 28, 2017.

Sean Graham is joined by Eric Porter, author of A People's History of SFO: The Making of the Bay Area and an Airport. They talk about the importance of airports, telling local stories through the airport, and how battles over airports speak to questions of power. They also get into the specifics of San Francisco's airport, how its development shaped the city and region, and some of the major milestones in SFO's history.

Historical Headline of the Week

Tim Fang, "City files motion to stop OAK airport from using 'San Francisco Bay' name," CBS News, Bay Area, September 17, 2024.