Fresh Air - Podcast Rankings and reviews

This rating is for Terry. The reality is that Fresh Air is what is because of Terry Gross. Her energy and warmth establishes comfort in her interviewees, but she doesn’t shy away from asking questions and follow ups that draw out interesting and complex answers you don’t hear in interviews with the same people. This talent distinguishes her from the endless list of other interviewers and competing culture podcasts that simply cannot do what she does. I find myself skipping this podcast more and more when I scroll through an episode and don’t hear her voice. I’m not sure what the future holds, but if you are a new listener and want to hear Fresh Air at top performance, try to find her interviews. It’s challenging because the descriptions don’t say who conducts the interview (frustrating but I get it).

I have been a Fresh Air listener for over 20 years. I have always loved the show for the quality of the guests and for Terry’s skill as an interviewer, but it was only in this latest episode with actor Jean Smart did i realize I was in the presence of a master. Terry’s rare combo of sensitivity, patience, and casual inquisitiveness allows her to delve deeply into the lives of interesting people. Bravo
- David, host of the Nurse Papa podcast

I’ve been listening for decades. I have learned a lot about what makes people tick and how to think about other people’s lives and work. It has shaped my way of thinking about others. Terry has amassed an amazing catalog of in-depth interviews with all sorts of people that will long out live us all. It is an astounding and valuable accomplishment because of the depth of the interviews. At times it seems like I’m eves dropping on a conversation between close friends.

I remember the first time I heard Terry Gross, it was mind blowing because she’s thee most incredible interviewer! She asks the questions I’m thinking of and doesn’t make herself the center of the conversation — she knows how to let her guests shine. I’m sure a lot of prep is involved with each show, but she expertly makes the convo flow naturally. I never miss it!

I always love Terri’s interviews. Really loved the one with Cecily- just a wonderfully open, genuine person. Comedians often just give more of the “show” in interviews- just be funny and irreverent all the time. That’s fine, if that’s what they like or works for them. But, it’s nice to see and hear about their bumps and foibles in a genuine and honest way. I’m an even bigger fan now.

Could you explain why you introduce Hamas’ attack as ‘brutal’ and Israeli retaliation as ‘fierce’? From a numerical perspective 40,000+ deaths, tens of thousands of injuries including the highest rate of child amputees in the world, and over a million households being uprooted seems brutal. Any civilian death is tragic. I don’t understand your framing and would love to understand. Thanks