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840
September 13, 2024

How Are You Not Seeing This?

People trying and struggling to see what another person sees. 

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An illustration of two people holding up eyeglasses to each others faces

Gracia Lam

Note: The internet version of this episode contains un-beeped curse words. BEEPED VERSION.

Prologue

Prologue

Guest-host Tobin Low talks to comedian Tig Notaro about a jarring ride to school with her son. (6 minutes)

By Tobin Low
Act One

There Will Be Blood

Producer Aviva DeKornfeld heads to the Calgary Stampede to watch as men try out a machine designed to simulate menstrual cramps. (15 minutes)

By Aviva DeKornfeld
Act Two

Face Your Demons

A man can’t seem to see anyone in his life for who they really are, plunging his life into chaos. (18 minutes)

By Alix Spiegel
Act Three

Pump It Up

Senior Editor David Kestenbaum hears about a way to save some money and help save the world. All he needs is a little help. (5 minutes)

By David Kestenbaum
Act Four

I’m Great, Thanks For NOT Asking

Marie Phillips reads a short story involving an aloof friend, a goose, and some extreme gardening. (7 minutes)

Written and performed by Marie Phillips; Produced by Bim Adewunmi

Song:

“Do You See What I See” by Hunters & Collectors (podcast only) & “Can’t You See It” by Sammy Davis, Jr. (radio only)

Related

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Act Three: Never Hear the End of It

Producer Sean Cole tells one of his favorite stories — about the ending of the book A Clockwork Orange.
10: Double Lives
Jan. 17, 1996

Act Four: Sins Of The Fathers

Susan Bergman returns to read an excerpt from her book.

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What happens when of a group of public school students in the Bronx goes to visit an elite private school three miles away.

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This American Life is produced in collaboration with WBEZ Chicago and delivered to stations by PRX The Public Radio Exchange.

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