Regina Barber

Gene Demby, a cultural commentator from NPR's Code Switch, brings his insights on race and media. Regina Barber, hosting NPR’s Shortwave, offers a thoughtful critique on storytelling in Zootopia 2. Candace Lim, former Slate host, shares personal reactions to the film. The trio discusses the sequel's lighter political themes compared to its predecessor, focuses on character relationships, and highlights the humor throughout. They also debate the implications of the film's lore, hinting at real-world parallels, while having fun with its clever Easter eggs and romance dynamics.

Joelle Monique, filmmaker and pop culture critic, shares fandom perspectives. Regina Barber, NPR Shortwave host and reporter, brings a reporter’s ear to the series. They discuss nostalgia and first impressions. They debate character work and pilot bloat. They praise Holly Hunter and Paul Giamatti’s turns. They unpack the academy setting, aesthetic choices, and standout performances.

Jana Levin, an astronomy and physics professor, shares her expertise on time travel and relativity. Regina Barber, a science journalist, discusses the impact of time travel narratives on culture. Literary critic Jonathan Russell-Clark explores storytelling and cinematic examples of time travel. They delve into why these stories captivate us, the scientific inaccuracies often present, and critique iconic films like Back to the Future and Interstellar. The conversation also touches on the hypothetical future of time travel and its philosophical implications.

Join Jana Levin, a physics and astronomy professor, as she delves into the physics of time travel. Regina Barber, a former astrophysicist and science reporter, discusses the allure of time travel in media. Literary critic Jonathan Russell-Clark shares insights on narrative techniques in time travel stories, highlighting classics like 'Back to the Future' and 'Donnie Darko.' They tackle deep questions about free will, scientific possibilities, and the cultural significance of time travel narratives, all while debating where they would go if given the chance.

Regina Barber, a dynamic host who connects with scientists, sits down with two expert cosmologists to unravel the Big Bang theory. They explore how this concept isn’t just a single moment but a significant period in the universe's history. The discussion highlights the cosmic microwave background and its revolutionary implications for understanding the early universe. Listeners will discover how the universe cooled and evolved, shedding light on its origins and the ongoing mysteries that captivate scientists today.