NPR appreciation

We do not have a TV, so my days begin with NPR, even when the pledge drive is going on! All week, I'm listening to my local staffers talk about the importance of public radio, their commitment to telling local stories, the wonderful thank you gifts (Do I need another mug? or maybe a pint glass this time!), and how important every donation is.

I just love Story Corps (and usually cry or laugh on Friday mornings, thanks to this feature). I get so many musical ideas from All Songs Considered (and Tiny Desk concerts!) - and these links often end up in our family group chats, as I try to prove to my kids that I'm cool.

The amazing Terry Gross leans into every guest on Fresh Air, eliciting their deepest reflections on their work by asking probing questions (and just writing this makes me want to go re-listen to old favorite episodes and catch-up on ones I haven't heard yet).

My local station also plays two wonderful podcasts, which I love to catch on the radio rather than play from my phone - every thematic This American Life elicits all kinds of emotions and often empathy for lives I don't know; and my local station plays The New Yorker Radio Hour, taking me into the news and deepening my content knowledge.

So yes, even though I'm already a member, I'm giving an extra gift to NPR today, because I want this content flowing my way, no matter who is in the White House. Thank you, NPR - and I think I'll go ahead and take that mug.

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It's Friday, the day I set aside for politics, and public education is under attack in Ohio, but I just needed to be positive this morning. But I'll post politically tomorrow.