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BETA

“BETA” comes from producer/host Doug Gordon. “BETA” is a polyphonic mosh pit where high culture and low culture collide, taking an immersive, innovative, playful and provocative approach to exploring arts, culture and technology.

Schedule

WPR Music, Saturdays, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., WPR News, Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Sundays, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

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Latest Episodes

  • Episode 723: Susan Morrison, Leah Kardos, Maggie Su

    Susan Morrison joins us to discuss her definitive biography of SNL creator Lorne Michaels. Author Leah Kardos tells us why Kate Bush’s album, “Hounds of Love,” is as fresh as ever 40 years after its release. Also, Maggie Su on her very funny and very moving debut novel, “Blob: A Love Story.”

    Episode 723: Susan Morrison, Leah Kardos, Maggie Su
  • Episode 712: Eugene Mirman, Yael van der Wouden, Walter Chaw

    This week on “BETA,” comedian Eugene Mirman joins us to talk about “Bob’s Burgers” and more. Also, Booker Prize nominee, Yael van der Wouden, on her debut novel, “The Safekeep.” […]

    Episode 712: Eugene Mirman, Yael van der Wouden, Walter Chaw
  • Episode 722: Clay McLeod Chapman, Paul de Jong, Karen Russell

    This week on “BETA,” …Master of horror, Clay McLeod Chapman joins us to discuss his latest novel, “Wake Up and Open Your Eyes.” And musician Paul de Jong talks to us about his captivating found sound music. Also, MacArthur Genius Karen Russell sits down with us to talk her about her incredible novel, “The Antidote,”

    Episode 722: Clay McLeod Chapman, Paul de Jong, Karen Russell
  • Episode 711: Simon Rich, Helen Phillips, Chris Nashawaty

    This week on “BETA,” Simon Rich joins us to talk about his short story collection, “Glory Days.” Helen Phillips explores Artificial Intelligence in her suspenseful novel, “Hum.” And author Chris Nashawaty revisits the epic summer of 1982 – when Star Wars and Sci-Fi Fever hit it’s peak.

    Episode 711: Simon Rich, Helen Phillips, Chris Nashawaty
  • Episode 721: Alan Sepinwall, Rachel Yoder, Kris Delmhorst

    Alan Sepinwall joins us to discuss “Saul Goodman v. Jimmy McGill: The Complete Critical Companion to “Better Call Saul.” And Rachel Yoder on her surreal novel, “Nightbitch,” which is now a major motion picture starring Amy Adams. Also, singer/songwriter Kris Delmhorst discusses her latest album, “Ghosts in the Garden.”

    Episode 721: Alan Sepinwall, Rachel Yoder, Kris Delmhorst

Meet The Staff

Brad Kolberg

Executive Producer

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BETA Articles