Tell Me More

  • Monday–Friday noon–1 p.m.
  • Monday–Thursday 9 p.m.–10 p.m.

Tell Me More brings fresh voices and perspectives to public radio. It’s where you will hear meaningful conversations on topics you’re not likely to find anywhere else. Capturing the headlines, issues and pleasures relevant to multicultural life in America, the daily one-hour series is hosted by award-winning journalist Michel Martin.

  • Feb 22

    Still No End To Killings In Syria, Tumult In Libya

    The Syrian government's crackdown against dissenters continues, and Western journalists were killed on Wednesday as forces shelled the city of Homs. Meanwhile in Libya, reports of torture are surfacing, and the interim government is struggling to control armed militias. Host Michel Martin talks with Al-Jazeera Washington Bureau Chief Abderrahim Foukara.
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  • Feb 22

    Beauty Shop: Santorum's Surge, Rihanna's Remix

    Host Michel Martin and the Beauty Shop ladies discuss whether GOP presidential candidate Rick Santorum can appeal to women voters in the general election. Also, Chris Brown was convicted of assaulting Rihanna three years ago, and now their working relationship has some wondering if they are condoning abuse.
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  • Feb 22

    'Panther Baby,' From Prisoner To Professor

    Jamal Joseph was a 15-year-old honor student when joining the Black Panther Party. He later faced a 12-year sentence in Leavenworth Penitentiary for helping fugitive Panther members. Behind bars, he taught a theater group, and now he teaches the arts at Columbia University. His new book is part of Tell Me More's Black History Month memoir series. Advisory: This conversation may not be comfortable for some listeners.
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  • Feb 22

    What Enslaves Us That We Won't Give Up?

    Host Michel Martin reflects on what the moral questions of history tell us about our own ethical blind spots. Her commentary comes as the National Museum of African American History and Culture breaks ground Wednesday in Washington, D.C.
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  • Feb 21

    Mardi Gras Indians Tout Generations-Old Traditions

    New Orleans hosts one of the biggest Mardi Gras celebrations on Tuesday. Local self-described Mardi Gras Indians are known for their eye-catching regalia, but police have seemed to look critically at them. Host Michel Martin speaks with Clarence "Big Chief" Dalcour of the Creole Osceola Mardi Gras Indians.
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  • Feb 21

    A Family's Year Of Buying Black

    Many consumers try shopping consciously by going to local stores or ones owned by certain faith or ethnic groups. Maggie Anderson and her family spent a year trying to shop exclusively at African American-owned businesses. They chronicled their efforts in the new book titled Our Black Year. Maggie Anderson talks with host Michel Martin.
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  • Feb 21

    When Parents Are Addicts, What Happens To Kids?

    Family, friends and fans flocked to New Jersey during the weekend for the funeral of Whitney Houston. The music legend was public about her struggle with substance abuse, and her daughter is one of millions who had to cope with that addiction. Host Michel Martin and a panel of parents discuss how parents' addictions affect their kids.
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  • Feb 21

    Super PACS Create Fairness?

    Super PACS have contributed millions of dollars to shape the 2012 presidential election. The "Citizens United" Supreme Court case paved the way for them. David Bossie, president of the conservative advocacy group Citizens United, speaks with host Michel Martin about how Super PACS could even the playing field.
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  • Feb 21

    Mardi Gras Indians Tout Generations-Old Traditions

    New Orleans hosts one of the biggest Mardi Gras celebrations on Tuesday. Local self-described "Mardi Gras Indians" are known for their eye-catching regalia, but police seem to look critically at them. Host Michel Martin speaks with Clarence "Big Chief" Dalcour of the Creole Osceola Mardi Gras Indians.
    Read full post


  • Feb 21

    A Family's Year Of Buying Black

    Many consumers try shopping consciously by going to local stores or ones owned by certain faith or ethnic groups. Maggie Anderson and her family spent a year trying to shop exclusively at African American-owned businesses. They chronicled their efforts in the new book titled Our Black Year. Maggie Anderson talks with host Michel Martin.
    Read full post


  • Feb 21

    Super PACS Create Fairness?

    Super PACS have contributed millions of dollars to shape the 2012 presidential election. The "Citizens United" Supreme Court case paved the way for them. David Bossie, president of the conservative advocacy group Citizens United, speaks with host Michel Martin about how Super PACS could even the playing field.
    Read full post


  • Feb 21

    When Parents Are Addicts, What Happens To Kids?

    Family, friends and fans flocked to New Jersey during the weekend for the funeral of Whitney Houston. The music legend was public about her struggle with substance abuse, and her daughter is one of millions who had to cope with that addiction. Host Michel Martin and a panel of parents discuss how parents' addictions affect their kids.
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  • Feb 20

    Haitian Heritage In Cuba ... As Heard Through Song

    In this encore broadcast, Michel Martin hosts the Creole Choir of Cuba for a performance chat. The group is credited with introducing the world to the rhythms of the Haitian community in Cuba. The 10 members are descendants of West Africans who were enslaved on that island. They sing songs of their ancestors, infused with contemporary sounds.
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  • Feb 20

    Smithsonian Sheds Light On Founding Father's Slaves

    Many Americans use Presidents' Day to reflect on the nation's core values, but the founding fathers often had complicated relationships with those ideals. A new exhibit explores that issue. "Slavery at Jefferson's Monticello" highlights the lives of slaves owned by the third U.S. president and the author of the Declaration of Independence. Host Michel Martin speaks with the exhibition's lead curators.
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  • Feb 20

    Can USDA Make Good With Female, Hispanic Farmers?

    Latino and women farmers have complained for decades about discrimination from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The agency is offering to address those concerns, but many affected farmers are not satisfied. Host Michel Martin speaks with Frederick Pfaeffle, the USDA's Deputy Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights.
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  • Feb 17

    Shop Talk: Ethnicity Driving 'Linsanity'?

    The Barbershop guys discuss the mania surrounding NBA player Jeremy Lin, and the controversial decision by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie to fly flags at half-staff to honor Whitney Houston. Host Michel Martin hears from journalist Jimi Izrael, civil rights attorney Arsalan Iftikhar, sports reporter Pablo Torre and columnist Mario Loyola.
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  • Feb 17

    American Muslim Women Lift The Veil On Love Lives

    Love InshAllah features personal essays from 25 women of different backgrounds and circumstances. Fans of love stories are curious and fascinated, but critics say the collection is salacious and sensational. Host Michel Martin and the book's contributing editor Ayesha Mattu discuss these stories of faith, love and the will to open up.
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  • Feb 17

    Week Of Sweet, Sour Economy For Ordinary Americans

    The labor market is improving, but Friday's consumer price index news shows that workers' paychecks are not keeping up with limited inflation. Hundreds of people visited NPR's Facebook page to comment on whether things are really getting better. Host Michel Martin and NPR Senior Business Editor Marilyn Geewax sift through the stats and comments.
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  • Feb 17

    Listeners Hyped About Hairless Mexican Dog

    Tell Me More host Michel Martin and editor Ammad Omar share listener comments on this week's conversation about the debut of the xoloitzcuintli at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. They also share an update on Apple, which had a spate of negative publicity about working conditions in Chinese factories.
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  • Feb 17

    Destination Ghana: A Son's First Trip Home

    Tell Me More is looking at memoirs for Black History Month, and writers of today seem to have a fresh zeal for exploring family histories. NPR producer John Asante describes his journey to Ghana — the birthplace of his parents and the burial place of his father. He shares what the trip taught him about his family and himself.
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  • Feb 16

    Iranians Would Unite Against War, Says Writer

    International pressure is building on Iran. On Wednesday, Iranian leaders claimed they made strides in their nuclear program and threatened to stop supplying oil to six European countries. Host Michel Martin hears what people inside the country think about the tensions. She speaks with writer Hooman Majd and human rights activist Sussan Tahmasebi.
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  • Feb 16

    Music That Feeds The Soul

    Former model B. Smith now has a growing brand that celebrates her love of Southern cuisine, including restaurants, cookbooks, home goods and wine. As part of Tell Me More's series, 'In Your Ear,' B. Smith offers up the playlist she listens to in her kitchen.
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  • Feb 16

    CNN Executive On Troubled Family Past

    Mark Whitaker's family memoir, My Long Trip Home chronicles his upbringing in an interracial family, and his parents' struggles with personal demons and the weight of history. As part of Tell Me More's Black History Month series on memoirs, host Michel Martin speaks with Whitaker.
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  • Feb 16

    Soweto Gospel Choir Offers Secrets To Their Sound

    For the last decade, the 26-member choir has captivated audiences including Bill Clinton and Nelson Mandela. Their blend of high energy, languages and musical traditions has won them numerous awards and a loyal fan base. They're now on a 43-city North American tour, and they stopped by for a performance chat with host Michel Martin.
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  • Feb 15

    Basketball Great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar On Diplomacy

    Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is perhaps one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He recently added another chapter to his storied career when he was named U.S. Cultural Ambassador by the State Department. Host Michel Martin speaks with the author and hall-of-famer.
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  • Feb 15

    Family Planning ... Chinese Zodiac Style

    The recent Chinese New Year marked the start of the Year of the Dragon. Children born this year, according to the Chinese zodiac, are supposed to be smarter, stronger and more successful. That's why some Asian American parents are pulling out all the stops to get pregnant. Host Michel Martin speaks with Los Angeles Times reporter Rosanna Xia.
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  • Feb 15

    House Music Is My Religion, Says Professor

    Author and professor Lester Spence recently spoke to Tell Me More about his book, Stare in the Darkness, which explores the influence of hip-hop music on American politics. But he says his personal playlist is made up of new and classic house tracks. He offers up his favorite cuts.
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  • Feb 15

    Is Single Life Something To Lament Or Celebrate?

    Yesterday, some singles saw Valentine's balloons and heart shaped boxes as reminders of the single life. With more Americans flying solo, how important is it to find "the one"? That's the question Ellen McCarthy set out to answer in a piece for The Washington Post Magazine. Host Michel Martin speaks with McCarthy and author Bella DePaulo.
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  • Feb 15

    Big Changes Ahead For American Schools?

    President Obama's 2013 budget calls for a $5 billion competitive grant to get states to overhaul teacher evaluations and training programs. Also, the president recently gave 10 states waivers from some of the rules of the No Child Left Behind Act. Host Michel Martin speaks with NPR's Claudio Sanchez and Kentucky principal Tim Roy.
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  • Feb 14

    White House Official Cecilia Munoz On Budget Plan

    President Obama's $3.8 trillion budget proposal calls for spending cuts and ambitious increases in education and transportation. But critics say it is nothing more than a re-election tactic. Host Michel Martin speaks with Cecilia Munoz, Director of the Domestic Policy Council.
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  • Feb 14

    For The Mazatec, Chocolate Not Just About Candy

    The gooey goodness can be traced back hundreds of years to Mexico, where chocolate has been cherished by the indigenous Mazatec people. On Valentine's Day, host Michel Martin explores the history and spiritual significance of chocolate with mother and daughter duo, Natividad Estrada and Diana Xochitl Munn.
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  • Feb 14

    Are The French Outdoing Americans At Parenting?

    Pamela Druckerman is causing a stir with her new book titled Bringing Up Bebe. The book argues that French parents raise better-behaved children than American parents. Host Michel Martin speaks with Druckerman, as well as Mathieu Garcon, who is a French dad, and Judith Warner, who wrote the modern motherhood book titled Perfect Madness.
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  • Feb 14

    'The Steve Harvey Morning Show' Co-host's Playlist

    Shirley Strawberry is the co-host of The Steve Harvey Morning Show and author of the relationship advice book The Strawberry Letter. As part of Tell Me More's "In Your Ear" series, she shares some of her favorite songs, including those from Maxwell, Marsha Ambrosius, CeeLo Green and Felanie Fiona.
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  • Feb 10

    'Linsanity' Taking Knicks, NBA By Storm

    Tell Me More host Michel Martin and editor Ammad Omar dig into the mailbag for listener feedback. They check in on the 'Linsanity' surrounding Jeremy Lin, a star with basketball's New York Knicks. Martin spoke to him when he was playing for Harvard University. They also check out responses to a controversial discussion on women's health.
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  • Feb 10

    Mixed Reactions To First Native American Saint

    The Vatican recently announced that the 17th-century Mohawk woman, Kateri Tekakwitha, will be canonized as a Catholic saint. Many Native Americans say this is an honor, but others feel it legitimizes the abuses of colonialism. Host Michel Martin speaks with WCPN reporter Brian Bull, who has been covering this issue.
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  • Feb 10

    Shop Talk: CNN Tangles With Controversy

    Host Michel Martin and the Barbershop guys discuss the latest person to get into hot water on Twitter. CNN contributor Roland Martin was suspended for what critics called "homophobic" comments. The guys also weigh in on a controversial Senate campaign ad that critics are calling offensive.
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  • Feb 10

    The High Price Of Being A Black Atheist

    A group of African American humanists is running an ad campaign during February. It features historical figures, including Frederick Douglass and Langston Hughes, who they believe shared humanist values. Alix Jules is part of the campaign and he speaks with host Michel Martin about his experience as a black atheist.
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  • Feb 10

    Secretary Donovan Talks Multi-Billion Deal

    Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan talks with host Michel Martin about the settlement reached yesterday between federal and state officials and major banks. It was an effort to address unfair banking practices that led to the mortgage crisis. President Obama praised the deal, but critics say the settlement is inadequate.
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  • Feb 09

    'We Are Still Awake,' Says Egyptian Protester

    It's been nearly one year since Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak stepped down, and the country is still experiencing the growing pains of transition. Last year, host Michel Martin spoke with a young protester minutes after Mubarak's resignation. Now, Martin catches up with her again to see if she's still optimistic about changes in her country.
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  • Feb 09

    'Gone Already' By Faith Evans Moves RuPaul

    Fierce and fashion-forward entertainer RuPaul has been famous for his drag persona for 20 years. He recently spoke to host Michel Martin about the new season of "RuPaul's Drag Race," a modeling competition for drag queens. As part of Tell Me More's series,
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  • Feb 09

    Behind The Glamour, GRAMMY Controversy Brewing

    During this Sunday's GRAMMY Awards, genres such as Native American, Hawaiian and Cajun music are merged into one category. The decision has caused some backlash with charges of racism and exclusion. Host Michel Martin discusses the decision with Felix Contreras, a reporter for NPR's Arts Desk and co-host of NPR Music's Alt.Latino podcast.
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  • Feb 09

    Conservatives Hope To Reach Hard-Pressed Youth

    Young conservatives are bringing new energy to this year's Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) with a panel called, "Why Am I Living in My Parent's Basement?" Host Michel Martin talks with two young people attending, about how they hope to bring under-30 voters to their side of the aisle.
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  • Feb 09

    Global Trends Expected To Dominate Fashion Week

    For the next eight days, designers from around the world will show off their fall collections on runways and online. NPR's Michel Martin checks in with Robin Givhan of Newsweek and The Daily Beast to discuss how globalization and technology are influencing runways and transforming the industry.
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  • Feb 08

    Santorum Wins Big In Three Early Voting Contests

    GOP hopeful Rick Santorum carried wins in Minnesota, Colorado and Missouri, on Tuesday. The White House also tries to manage a controversy over requiring many Catholic institutions to provide free contraception in their employees' health coverage. Host Michel Martin covers these topics and other political news with a diverse panel of politicos.
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  • Feb 08

    'How To Be Black' Author Offers Up His Playlist

    In his new book, writer and comedian Baratunde Thurston writes about straddling two worlds: the troubled Washington, D.C. neighborhood where he grew up, and the elite halls of Harvard, the college he attended. As part of Tell Me More's occasional series, "In Your Year," Thurston talks about the songs that move and inspire him.
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  • Feb 08

    Santorum Wins Big In Three Early Voting Contests

    GOP hopeful Rick Santorum carried wins in Minnesota, Colorado and Missouri, on Tuesday. The White House also tries to manage a controversy over requiring many Catholic institutions to provide free contraception in their employees' health coverage. Host Michel Martin covers these topics and other political news with a diverse panel of politicos.
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  • Feb 08

    New TV Series Highlights Black Missing Persons

    Nearly a third of all missing-person cases in 2010 involved black victims, according to the FBI. Many of those cases were under-reported. But the new TV show Find Our Missing hopes to change that.
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  • Feb 08

    'How To Be Black' Author Offers Up His Playlist

    In his new book, writer and comedian Baratunde Thurston writes about straddling two worlds: the troubled Washington, D.C. neighborhood where he grew up, and the elite halls of Harvard, the college he attended. As part of Tell Me More's occasional series, "In Your Year," Thurston talks about the songs that move and inspire him.
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  • Feb 08

    New TV Series Highlights Black Missing Persons

    Nearly a third of all missing person cases in 2010 involved black victims, according to the FBI. Many of those cases were largely under-reported. But the new TV show, "Find Our Missing," hopes to change that. Host Michel Martin speaks with actress S. Epatha Merkerson, who hosts the series, and Derrica Wilson of the Black and Missing Foundation.
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  • Feb 08

    Is Komen's Image Beyond Repair?

    The breast cancer charity, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, took a lot of heat last week for cutting grants to Planned Parenthood. The group reversed the decision this week, and Karen Handel resigned as vice president. Host Michel Martin continues the conversation on this week's major news with a diverse panel of politicos.
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  • Feb 07

    Applying For Financial Aid Without The Fear Factor

    Application deadlines for financial aid like grants, scholarships and student loans are just around the corner. But many students may need help getting their paperwork in order. Host Michel Martin speaks with Adrianna Badillo. She's the director of Gear-Up, a program designed to guide low-income students into higher education.
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  • Feb 07

    The Wage Gap Between Moms, Other Working Women

    Moms earn up to 14 percent less than women who don't have children, says a University of New Mexico study. Host Michel Martin discusses the gap with UNM economist Kate Krause; Dina Bakst of A Better Balance, a workplace rights organization; and Dawn Porter, founder of Trilogy Films and a mother of two.
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  • Feb 07

    Sketchy Labor Practices Sour Apple Consumers

    Reports have recently surfaced about poor working conditions in Chinese factories that help make consumer electronic products. The companies are accused of exposing workers to toxins, hiring the underage, and improperly disposing waste. Host Michel Martin talks with C-NET Editor Rafe Needleman about these findings.
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  • Feb 07

    Syrian President Going Down Amid Uproar?

    The U.S. faces rising tensions across the Middle East and North Africa. The U.S. Embassy in Syria recently closed as violence against dissidents continued. In Egypt, a group of Americans, including a cabinet secretary's son, is facing trial for funding pro-democracy groups. Host Michel Martin checks in with Hisham Melhem of Al-Aribiya television.
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  • Feb 07

    Syrian President Going Down Amid Uproar?

    The U.S. faces rising tensions across the Middle East and North Africa. The U.S. Embassy in Syria recently closed as violence against dissidents continued. In Egypt, a group of Americans, including a cabinet secretary's son, is facing trial for funding pro-democracy groups. Host Michel Martin checks in with Hisham Melhem of Al-Aribiya television.
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  • Feb 07

    The Wage Gap Between Moms, Other Working Women

    Moms earn up to 14 percent less than women who don't have children, says a University of New Mexico study. Host Michel Martin discusses the gap with UNM economist Kate Krause; Dina Bakst of A Better Balance, a workplace rights organization; and Dawn Porter, founder of Trilogy Films and a mother of two.
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  • Feb 07

    Applying For Financial Aid Without The Fear Factor

    Application deadlines for financial aid like grants, scholarships and student loans are just around the corner. But many students may need help getting their paperwork in order. Host Michel Martin speaks with Adrianna Badillo. She's the director of Gear-Up, a program designed to guide low-income students into higher education.
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  • Feb 06

    Super Bowl XLVI: Dogs In Ads, Madonna At Halftime

    With an ad costing about $3.5 million per 30 seconds, the stakes were high as advertisers pulled out all their tricks to wow viewers on Super Bowl Sunday. To review the most talked about ads, guest host Jacki Lyden hears from Tampa Bay Times TV and media critic Eric Deggans, and Detroit News TV critic and writer Mekeisha Madden Toby. They also discuss Madonna's halftime show performance.
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  • Feb 06

    From Struggle To Glory In Minor League Football

    Jamie King's NFL dreams never took off, but he got a second chance when he was asked to coach the Fredericksburg Generals, a little-known team in Virginia. He talks with guest host Jacki Lyden about helping a group of misfits become champions, and how it changed his life in the process. King is profiled in this week's The Washington Post Magazine.
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  • Feb 06

    Comedian Baratunde Thurston On 'How To Be Black'

    Thurston is the son of a pro-black, pan-African mother. He straddled the worlds between his troubled neighborhood in Washington, D.C., and the elite halls of Harvard University. He speaks with host Michel Martin about some of his witty and profound thoughts on race. His new book How To Be Black is part of Tell Me More's memoir series for Black History Month.
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  • Feb 06

    Freddie Mac Good For Business, Bad For Homeowners?

    An investigation by ProPublica and NPR sheds light on questionable practices by the government-owned mortgage giant Freddie Mac. Guest host Jacki Lyden speaks with NPR's Chris Arnold and Arturo de los Santos, who is trying to save his house.
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  • Feb 06

    Comedian Baratunde Thurston On 'How To Be Black'

    Thurston is the son of a pro-black, pan-African mother. He straddled the worlds between his troubled neighborhood in Washington, D.C., and the elite halls of Harvard University. He speaks with host Michel Martin about his new book How To Be Black.
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  • Feb 06

    Chinese Labor Practices Sour Apple Consumers

    Apple products' manufacturers have been accused of exposing workers to toxic chemicals, hiring the underage, and improperly disposing of waste. Host Michel Martin talks with C-Net Editor Rafe Needleman about whether it's possible to make an ethical smartphone.
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  • Feb 03

    Contraception Provision Sets Off Firestorm

    The Obama administration reaffirmed its position that certain religious institutions have to provide health coverage that offers free contraception. U.S. Catholic bishops are vowing to fight this rule in Congress, in courts, and in churches. Host Michel Martin speaks with Laurie Goodstein of the New York Times.
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  • Feb 03

    Letters From Detroit

    Tell Me More is back from the Motor City, but the letters are still rolling in. This week, host Michel Martin and editor Ammad Omar comb through listener feedback and hear from one woman who was brought to tears after hearing Oscar nominee Demian Bichir's favorite songs.
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  • Feb 03

    Football Fans Can Be Fashionistas Too, Says The NFL

    Female football fans no longer have to "shrink and pink" men's jerseys to support their favorite team. The NFL's Fit For You line offers fashion-forward apparel to female football fans. Host Michel Martin speaks to NFL Director of Apparel Rhiannon Madden.
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  • Feb 03

    Las Vegas Principal Hopes To Beat The Odds

    Nevada has the lowest high school graduation rate in the country. But now a multi-million dollar federal grant is helping one district turn its schools around. Host Michel Martin speaks with a principal who spent last Saturday knocking on the doors of students who dropped out, encouraging them to come back to school.
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  • Feb 03

    Shop Talk: Did Romney Slow His Roll?

    The Barbershop guys discuss whether Mitt Romney put the brakes on his momentum when he said he was not concerned about the very poor. Host Michel Martin checks in with freelance journalist Jimi Izrael, civil rights attorney Arsalan Iftikhar, Sports Illustrated reporter Pablo Torre, and National Review contributor Neil Minkoff.
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  • Feb 02

    Getting America's Dropouts Back On Track

    Nearly a quarter of U.S. public high school students fail to graduate on time, or at all. The president wants a rule requiring students to stay in school until age 18. But even with the requirement, Washington, D.C. has one of the lowest graduation rates. Host Michel Martin speaks with WAMU's Kavitha Cardoza and former dropout, Rashida Harris.
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  • Feb 02

    Indy Mayor On The Big Game

    This weekend, millions of Americans will watch the New England Patriots face-off against the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLVI, held in Indianapolis. Host Michel Martin speaks with Mayor Greg Ballard about why his city is a good venue for one of the biggest sporting events in America.
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  • Feb 02

    RuPaul: Famous, Fierce And Fashion Forward

    RuPaul is known for his dazzling dresses, sky-high wigs and even higher stiletto heels. His latest accomplishment is hosting RuPaul's Drag Race, a modeling competition for drag queens, now in its fourth season. Host Michel Martin speaks with the 51-year-old entertainer, singer and model.
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  • Feb 02

    'Otis' Has Special Meaning for SAG Winner

    Actress Viola Davis recently won top honors at the Screen Actors Guild Awards for her role in the film, "The Help." She spoke with Tell Me More back when her movie was released. As part of the series, "In Your Ear," she offers up her personal playlist, including "Otis" by Kanye West and Jay-Z, plus "I Can't Make You Love Me" by Tank.
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  • Feb 02

    Changes In Store For Tech Giants And You

    Facebook just filed for its initial public offering and the company is rolling out it's new platform for all users. Also, Google announced it would overhaul its privacy policy. Host Michel Martin speaks with Cecilia Kang of The Washington Post about what all of this means for profitability and privacy in the online world.
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  • Feb 01

    Legendary Creator of 'Soul Train' TV Show Dies

    Don Cornelius' velvety voice brought African-American dance and music to a wider audience, and he showcased musical acts that would later become stars. Host Michel Martin talks with NPR correspondent Karen Grigsby Bates about Cornelius' life and work.
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  • Feb 01

    Why Millions of Americans Have No Government ID

    Several states have tightened voting requirements, making it mandatory to show a form of government-issued photo ID before casting a ballot. But millions of Americans don't have a government ID. Host Michel Martin talks with NPR's Corey Dade about who is least likely to have one and why.
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  • Feb 01

    A Memoir Should Be More Than A History Lesson

    The memoir, in African-American history, dates back to slave journals. But memoirs can also move us and make us laugh out loud. Tell Me More marks Black History Month with a series of discussions about the impact of memoirs, including today's conversation between host Michel Martin and a roundtable of writers and scholars.
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  • Feb 01

    Romney Rivals Are In It For The Long Haul

    Florida primary voters handed Mitt Romney a resounding victory on Tuesday. But other GOP candidates declared that they are staying in the race. And President Obama has been busy raising money and trying to energize his base. Host Michel Martin talks about the latest election news with politicos Corey Ealons and Mario Loyola.
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  • Feb 01

    How Much English Is Enough To Hold Office?

    An Arizona judge has deemed Alejandrina Cabrera's English language skills to be inadequate, and has struck her name from the ballot for the San Luis, Ariz., City Council.
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  • Jan 31

    Two-Tier Wage System Shortchanging Workers?

    When the auto industry was struggling financially, UAW and Detroit's Big Three automakers negotiated a system giving new employees lower wages and fewer benefits than employees hired before the deal was struck. Host Michel Martin speaks with a local reporter, as well as an autoworker who took a buy-out and was rehired at the same plant.
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  • Jan 31

    Detroit Mayor Dave Bing On City's Crisis

    Bing is facing a massive financial crisis and population plunge in Detroit. He's also trying to avoid a state takeover of the city. The former businessman and NBA star speaks with host Michel Martin about what it takes to transform the city.
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  • Jan 31

    Residents Tout Detroit As City Of Ideas, Arts

    Member station WDET asked listeners to share what they want the world to know about their city. Tell Me More ends its Motown-based broadcast with comments from some of Detroit's biggest fans.
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  • Jan 31

    Teaching Kids To Be Tolerant

    Detroit's City Council recently passed an ordinance that would make bullying and cyber bullying a criminal offense. Host Michel Martin explores how to raise kids to be accepting of differences. She speaks with moms Leslie Morgan Steiner, Desiree Cooper and Angela Jaafar. Jaafar is also part of the reality TV show All-American Muslim.
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  • Jan 31

    Dan Gilbert: Connectivity Is Name Of The Game

    Detroit native Dan Gilbert is the majority owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers and founder of Quicken Loans. He bought several downtown properties that cover about 2 million square feet. He says he hopes to attract new businesses, prevent brain drain and make the area a top tech hub. Gilbert discusses his vision with host Michel Martin.
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  • Jan 30

    Your Problem, Not Mine — Until It Is

    In her weekly commentary, Michel Martin says the challenges of the minority — including marriage, relationship and education issues — are often a prelude to what will happen to the many. But the many often don't think so until it's too late.
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  • Jan 30

    Native Americans As Slaves, Slave Owners In North

    MacArthur 'Genius' Tiya Miles does pioneering research on the relationship between Cherokee Indians and African-Americans. She speaks with host Michel Martin about shedding light on the unexplored history of Native American and African-American slavery in Michigan.
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  • Jan 30

    America's Supernanny Shares Key To Raising Kids

    Films such as Nanny McPhee and Mary Poppins have romanticized the nanny role, but there's no magic umbrella for the star of the reality TV show America's Supernanny. Deborah Tillman visits a home-in-crisis during each episode, helping kids and parents behave. She talks to host Michel Martin.
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  • Jan 30

    Life's Common Things At Heart Of K'Jon's R&B Music

    Ahead of Tell Me More's Tuesday broadcast from Detroit, the program highlights one of the city's very own — singer and songwriter K'Jon. His 2009 song, 'On the Ocean,' set the record for the longest run on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. He speaks with host Michel Martin about his hometown, career and upcoming album.
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  • Jan 30

    Life's Common Things At Heart Of K'Jon's R&B Music

    Ahead of Tell Me More's Tuesday broadcast from Detroit, the program highlights one of the city's very own — singer and songwriter K'Jon. His 2009 song, 'On the Ocean,' set the record for the longest run on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. He speaks with host Michel Martin about his hometown, career and upcoming album.
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  • Jan 30

    How Primary Skirmish Toughens White House Bid

    Candidates vying for the GOP nomination will face off at the ballot box on Tuesday during Florida's primary. Host Michel Martin looks at who has momentum heading into the Sunshine State, and what impact the Super PACS are having on the campaign. She talks with U.S. News and World Report Columnist Mary Kate Cary and journalism professor Cynthia Tucker.
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  • Jan 27

    Shop Talk: Debate Civility, Obama Gets Finger Wag

    The Barbershop guys discuss the GOP debate in Florida, Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer's dust-up with President Obama, and the "Taco" Mayor in Connecticut. Host Michel Martin speaks with journalist Jimi Izrael, attorney Arsalan Iftikhar, columnist Ruben Navarrette and BlackAmericaWeb.com's Michael Cottman.
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  • Jan 27

    A Lawyer, Not A Sage, Creates Talmud Index

    Generations of scholars have studied the ancient, 63-volume central text of Jewish faith, law and practice without the help of an index. But Daniel Retter has recently created what is believed to be the first comprehensive index for the Talmud. He speaks with host Michel Martin about spending seven years on the massive project.
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  • Jan 27

    Complexities Of Helping Others End Their Lives

    Terminal illness patients sometimes feel that their pain outweighs the benefits of life. Dr. Larry Egbert, co-founder and former medical director of the Final Exit Network, says he helped several patients find ways to end their suffering and lives. He was recently profiled in The Washington Post Magazine. He speaks with host Michel Martin.
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  • Jan 27

    Rep. Allen West To Black Voters: Give GOP A Chance

    Host Michel Martin speaks with Republican Congressman Allen West, who represents Florida's 22nd district. They discuss what voters in the Sunshine State are looking for in Tuesday's primary, and what he's doing to attract more African-Americans to vote Republican.
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  • Jan 26

    Chinese New Year Unique For Adoptive Families

    American families have adopted more than 66,000 children from China since 1999. Many of these families see the Chinese New Year as a time to instill cultural pride. But for David Youtz, the father of four Chinese daughters, that means modifying some age-old customs.
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  • Jan 26

    Best Actor Oscar Nominee Talks Music

    Demian Bichir recently received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of an undocumented immigrant in the drama, "A Better Life." As part of Tell Me More's ongoing series "In Your Ear," Bichir talks about the music that moves him.
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  • Jan 26

    Republicans Fight For The Latino Vote

    More than 4.2 million Latinos live in the Sunshine State, and that population is in the spotlight as Republican presidential candidates battle to win Florida's upcoming primary. Host Michel Martin discusses this crucial voting bloc with Gary Segura of Latino Decisions, and the Associated Press's Hispanic Affairs reporter Laura Wides-Munoz.
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  • Jan 25

    Valerie Jarrett Explains Obama On Economy, Energy

    Host Michel Martin continues the conversation with White House Senior Adviser Valerie Jarrett. A day after the State of the Union speech, Jarrett says President Obama's focus is not on politics. She also addresses criticism Obama has faced over the national debt and high unemployment rates.
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  • Jan 25

    Fact-Checking The State Of The U.S. Economy

    Host Michel Martin and NPR Senior Business Editor Marilyn Geewax discuss America's economic health and review Congressional reactions to the economic proposals in the president's State of the Union address. They also look at the upcoming primary in Florida, where the housing crisis remains a major problem.
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  • Jan 25

    Valerie Jarrett: Obama's SOTU A Call To Action

    Host Michel Martin speaks with White House Senior Adviser Valerie Jarrett about President Obama's State of the Union speech. Jarrett discusses job loss and growth, and says America is moving in the right direction when it comes to combating unemployment.
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  • Jan 25

    Republican, Democrat SOTU Seatmates React To Obama

    On Tuesday, President Obama delivered his final State of the Union address of his four-year term. It largely focused on growing the nation's economy. Host Michel Martin talks with two members of Congress who sat next to each other during the address: Rep. Michael Grimm, R-N.Y., and Rep. Loretta Sanchez, D-Calif.
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  • Jan 25

    State Of Disunion For Seal And Heidi Klum

    The Beauty Shop ladies discuss GOP and Tea Party responses to the State of the Union speech. They also weigh in on Seal and Heidi Klum's breakup, and survey results about how African-American women define themselves. Host Michel Martin talks with political and cultural bloggers, a Washington Post writer, and Tea Party Patriots member.
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  • Jan 25

    Real Tuskegee Airmen Helped 'Red Tails' Take Flight

    George Lucas, the executive producer of the World War II saga, said he wanted the movie to be about heroes. So, he brought them in. Actual Tuskegee Airmen advised actors on everything from how to wear their pants to how to move in a cockpit.
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  • Jan 25

    Detroit in 25 Words Or Less - WDET's Raw Feed

    NPR's Michel Martin and "Tell Me More" are bringing their national news program to Detroit for two days! Tell them what THEY should know about our region in 25 words or less!


  • Jan 24

    Nigerian Authorities Underestimating Unrest?

    Bombings killed more than 150 people in the city of Kano last week, and mass protests recently erupted countrywide after the government scrapped a fuel subsidy. Host Michel Martin speaks with Reuters' chief correspondent in Nigeria, and the head of the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative.
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  • Jan 24

    'The Artist,' 'The Help' Take Oscar Nominations

    The 84th Academy Award nominees were announced on Tuesday. Host Michel Martin speaks with Boston Globe film critic Wesley Morris about which movies, directors and actors are in the running to take home a little gold statue on Oscar night.
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  • Jan 24

    Black History Just A Sidebar In History Books?

    The American Library Association granted its 2012 Coretta Scott King Author Award to Kadir Nelson for his children's book Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans. The award goes to authors who promote an appreciation of all cultures. Host Michel Martin speaks with Nelson, plus Chrystal Carr Jeter of the award committee.
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  • Jan 24

    Whether Pink Legos Are Just Building Stereotypes

    Lego's new play sets, which are geared toward girls, include a beauty shop, cafe and pool. Critics say the toys are too focused on image and gender stereotypes. Others, including Lego, say they're simply what girls want to play with. Host Michel Martin and a diverse panel of moms explore gender-focused marketing.
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