Best Wgbh Educational Foundation Podcasts (2025)

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What will help America's lagging literacy rates? Plus, a peek into this year's CineFest Latino Boston Film Festival 58:00

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9h ago58:00

58:00

Recent findings show that one-third of American high school seniors lack basic reading skills -- the lowest numbers in more than three decades. Could a shift to a more linguistics-centered educational approach help turn those numbers around? Plus, it’s Hispanic Heritage Month, which means it’s time again for the annual CineFest Latino Boston Film F…

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Our first Massachusetts news roundtable! Plus, a new exhibit features David Driskell's work alongside his collection 58:00

5d ago58:00

58:00

We’re exploring the latest headlines from Western, Central, and Eastern Massachusetts in our first Massachusetts news roundtable, including the latest in the off-shore-wind saga, consolidated high school football teams in the Berkshires and Holyoke as a non-sanctuary city. Then, Callie heads to Portland, Maine, to check out the Portland Museum of A…

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Encore: Six Touchdowns and a Song 22:07

1h ago22:07

22:07

In 1965, Gale Sayers was the first-round draft pick for the Chicago Bears, kicking off a history-making NFL career. 41 years later, a bloody, torn up jersey worn by Sayers appears on GBH’s Antiques Roadshow after narrowly being saved from a fate as a cleaning rag. What follows is an epic TV appraisal that leads to a surprise at the auction block. J…

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Joy Behar's new play "My First Ex-Husband." Plus, our September book-club pick! 58:00

22h ago58:00

58:00

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes … divorce? Award-winning television host, actress and playwright Joy Behar goes from screen to stage in her new play, “My First Ex-Husband," premiering at the Huntington on September 12. We speak with Joy Behar and fellow iconic funny lady and cast member Jackie Hoffman about the show. Then, Olivia …

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Celebrate summer with two of our favorite seaside stories! 59:09

8d ago59:09

59:09

Summer may be winding down, but we’re not ready to say goodbye just yet! This week, we go back to Cape Cod and the Islands for an encore of two of our favorite seaside segments. First, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the movie “Jaws" through analyzing its iconic score with two music professors, including a John Williams expert. Then, we meet a…

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Robert Thorogood Episode 2, The Marlow Murder Club Season 2 | MASTERPIECE Studio 22:05

8d ago22:05

22:05

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for Episode Two of The Marlow Murder Club Season 2. Author Robert Thorogood returns to the podcast to discuss writing the first two episodes of The Marlow Murder Club Season Two, based on his novel, Death Comes to Marlow. Robert shares his thoughts on locked room mysteries, the importance of humor, and what’s…

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On Top of the World 22:59

8d ago22:59

22:59

Maps show us the world. These wayfinding wonders show us how people think about the world, and sometimes they make us think about the world differently. When a map from 1700 worth thousands of dollars and showing a very different world view came to ANTIQUES ROADSHOW’s 2023 event in Sturbridge, MA, it raised the question – on modern maps, why is nor…

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Amid growing disapproval ratings, President Trump tries to appeal to his base. Will it work? 58:00

28d ago58:00

58:00

We’ve just passed the half year mark into the second Donald Trump presidency. This month, President Trump called for the end of mail-in ballots. What could that mean for future elections? States are pushing back against White House policies, and California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking a very public – and very snarky – approach. And early voting …

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Robert Thorogood Episode 1, The Marlow Murder Club Season 2 | MASTERPIECE Studio 23:24

15d ago23:24

23:24

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for Episode One of The Marlow Murder Club Season 2. Author Robert Thorogood fell in love with murder mysteries at a young age when he stumbled across an Agatha Christie novel at his great aunt’s house. Since then, he’s been determined to write his own golden age style murder mysteries. In this conversation, w…

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Low-waste chefs craft exciting new recipes as readers grow hungry for change 27:37

22d ago27:37

27:37

Don’t throw out your leftovers; they might be the best part of your next meal! Repurposing leftovers and using food scraps in recipes is part of the movement to reduce food waste. Cookbook authors Tamar Adler and Anne-Marie Bonneau join Callie Crossley to make the case for low and zero-waste tasty recipes that’ll save home chefs time and money whil…

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Efforts to reduce food waste in Massachusetts inspire innovation and community action 30:22

22d ago30:22

30:22

Massachusetts is a leader in the nationwide effort to reduce food waste, setting statewide standards on food scraps, supporting community-led efforts for food recovery, and ramping up assistance to schools and businesses. With fresh new insights and creative solutions, the fight against food waste is drawing new enthusiasts to an old environmental …

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Standing the Test of Time 26:02

22d ago26:02

26:02

When a large equine statue first appeared at ANTIQUES ROADSHOW in 1997, Asian Arts expert Lark Mason was suspicious if it was truly an authentic relic from China’s Tang Dynasty or if he was dealing with a horse of a different color. There was only one way to know for sure if this U.S. Air Force pilot's 1950 purchase was authentic. Would the piece p…

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Asian-led media in 2025 is breaking box-office records and topping best-of lists 57:59

1M ago57:59

57:59

In the past few years, Asian directors, actors, cast and crew have dominated award seasons – from “Parasite” to “Shogun” to “Everything Everywhere All At Once.” And culturally relevant Asian stories in film, on TV, and on streaming platforms continue to resonate with audiences – and bring in big bucks – around the world. So what Asian-led movies an…

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Meet three authors who wrote some of the most banned books in America 58:01

2M ago58:01

58:01

A novel about a fictional school shooting, which captures the perspectives of all involved. A memoir which begins with a young person’s complicated journey questioning their sexual identity. And a novella detailing a year in the life of a young Latina living in Chicago as she approaches adolescence. In many cities and states, these storylines are a…

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Daisy Coulam & Rishi Nair Episode 8, Grantchester Season 10 | MASTERPIECE Studio 36:05

1M ago36:05

36:05

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for Episode Eight of Grantchester Season 10. Head writer and executive producer Daisy Coulam and actor Rishi Nair join us once again to wrap up this beautiful season of Grantchester. Daisy and Rishi reflect on the heartfelt themes of belonging, family, and parent-child dynamics.…

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One of a Kind 24:27

1M ago24:27

24:27

Since ANTIQUES ROADSHOW debuted on PBS almost 30 years ago, toys and games expert Noel Barrett has brought joy and vast knowledge to countless guests, but there’s one appraisal—and mistake—he just can’t let go of: a 1930s Snow White painting that defied all initial expectations. Join host Adam Monahan as he takes us on an unexpected journey through…

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With the future of offshore wind up in the air, solar power shines on 34:31

2M ago34:31

34:31

Artificial intelligence data centers rely on electricity – and lots of it – which is leading to the draining of vital resources for local communities. President Donald Trump’s administration has shut down the EPA's research arm and now plans to repeal the agency’s climate change rule aimed at reducing greenhouse gases. And with the future of offsho…

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As dining trends evolve, restaurateurs rush to meet the moment 23:28

1M ago23:28

23:28

Restaurants are still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Some of them didn’t make it, while the survivors adapted to the moment and have continued to evolve. The recent changes in dining out have reshaped the dining experience for customers who are more discerning than ever, as their entertainment budgets become tighter. Is it wo…

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Despite massive success, new 'Superman' movie derided as super 'woke' by right-wing pundits 31:12

2M ago31:12

31:12

It’s time for the Emmys! HBO Max lands the most nods it’s ever received, and RuPaul becomes the most nominated host in Emmys history. Plus, there’s been plenty of critical acclaim for the new “Superman” movie, which drew big crowds – and big money – at the box office. So what’s with the controversy among right-wing circles? And how an AI-generated …

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In 'Kufre N' Quay,' audiences cross the halfway point in a generational story arc 26:48

2M ago26:48

26:48

What happens when a 12-year-old African boy connects with a Black American girl after settling down in New York City’s Little Senegal? Emmy-nominated playwright Mfoniso Udofia explores that ensuing friendship in her latest project, the fifth production of nine in the Ufot Family Cycle: “Kufre N’ Quay.”…

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Bradley Hall, Grantchester Season 10 | MASTERPIECE Studio 35:47

2M ago35:47

35:47

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for Episode Six of Grantchester Season 10. Actor Bradley Hall joined the Grantchester cast in Season Four, originally for just two episodes, as the young copper Larry Peters. Seven seasons later, Larry has emerged as a fan favorite and Grantchester staple. Today, Bradley makes his MASTERPIECE Studio debut and…

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Elvis Tries to Leave the Building 25:25

2M ago25:25

25:25

Thirteen years ago, a life-sized Elvis Presley cutout rocked ANTIQUES ROADSHOW with a $10,000-$15,000 estimate but now it’s time for him to leave the building. Join ANTIQUES ROADSHOW DETOURS host Adam Monahan for a journey through pop culture history and a dramatic auction filled with twists and turns. Will the superfan owner score a princely payda…

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A Congressional race in New Hampshire already has eight candidates. The election is next year. 31:29

2M ago31:29

31:29

Offshore wind farms were poised to provide energy to millions in New England. Now those plans are stalled – maybe indefinitely. Broken promises are leading Rhode Island politicians to face plummeting approval ratings. Meanwhile candidates are lining up in the race to replace U.S. Representative Chris Pappas in New Hampshire. And bridges on Cape Cod…

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'Dear Summer: Volume 3' returns to highlight more emerging artists and DJs 26:30

2M ago26:30

26:30

Summer in Boston just got a new soundtrack: the third edition of its citywide mixtape. The City of Boston’s “Dear Summer Vol. 3” features a variety of genres representing neighborhoods across the city, including up-and-comers from the Berklee College of Music, local legends and artists with Boston roots who’ve received national attention. We speak …

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Encore: Family — And FDR — Drew Kyle MacLachlan To MASTERPIECE 35:20

2M ago35:20

35:20

This is an encore release of an earlier podcast episode. The chance to play legendary American President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was one big reason for Kyle MacLachlan to sign on to Atlantic Crossing. But it was the story of the young Norwegian Royal Family at the heart of the miniseries that made him commit to the role. MacLachlan explores Roose…

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Music and mystery unite in Brendan Slocumb’s latest novel, ‘The Dark Maestro’ 23:51

3M ago23:51

23:51

Curtis Wilson escaped his father’s troubled world and grasped his lifelong dream of becoming a cellist. Then, he almost lost it all. The protagonist of writer, educator and classical musician Brendan Slocumb’s new book “The Dark Maestro” reflects the author’s own experience as a performer. “The Dark Maestro” is our July selection for Bookmarked: th…

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Natalism 101: What’s behind President Trump’s desire for a second baby boom? 34:08

3M ago34:08

34:08

The pro-birth movement, known as pronatalism, has long been popular in certain politically conservative circles. But in recent years, it has begun to gain traction more broadly. Many view it not only as a means to slow the declining population, but also as a way to preserve culture. But others worry that the singular focus on having more babies is …

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Rishi Nair, Grantchester Season 10 | MASTERPIECE Studio 28:26

2M ago28:26

28:26

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for Episode Four of Grantchester Season 10. For actor Rishi Nair, just like his character Alphy Kottaram, returning to Grantchester for another season feels like coming home. In this episode, Rishi explores questions of identity, friendship, and found family for Alphy, as he revisits a formative part of his p…

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Latinx news: Celebs speak out for immigrants as Trump admin touts ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ 32:17

3M ago32:17

32:17

The Los Angeles anti-deportation protests may not be on the front page, but the National Guard is still on the ground in LA. President Donald Trump wants to build “Alligator Alcatraz,” a detention center in the Florida Everglades. And the Milford teen who was held by ICE denies ICE’s claims that he lied about the conditions of his detention. It’s o…

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Summer food and drinks bring the heat with sweet-and-spicy treats 25:41

2M ago25:41

25:41

With warmer weather arriving, food and drinks are getting “swicy” – that’s sweet and spicy. The adventurous blend has been trending for some time with the rise of hot honey and, now, as an added kick to already bold white wines. Plus, international food trends make a splash locally and could the Michelin guide boost much-needed dine-in traffic to l…

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Daisy Coulam, Grantchester Season 10 | MASTERPIECE Studio 24:44

2M ago24:44

24:44

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for Episode Three of Grantchester Season 10. Head writer and executive producer Daisy Coulam joins the podcast this week to discuss relationship dynamics, balancing murder with morality, and how she continues to keep Grantchester fresh and captivating after 10 heartwarming seasons.…

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Unbound Pages: Authors Against Book Bans unites authors fighting for the freedom to read 33:01

3M ago33:01

33:01

Thousands of books are facing scrutiny throughout the country as the book-banning movement continues to gain supporters. Now, authors are joining together to fight back and use their voices off the page to spread awareness about how book bans threaten democracy and free speech. We speak with three members of Authors Against Book Bans in the latest …

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Donna Summer Disco Party boogies onto City Hall Plaza 24:59

3M ago24:59

24:59

In 1975, Boston native Donna Summer released her single, “Love to Love You Baby,” a sexy disco tune featuring shimmering strings and a funky bassline that would become a global smash. Fifty years later, her hometown will celebrate Summer’s artistry and the lasting impact of her work with its eleventh Donna Summer Disco Party on City Hall Plaza. We …

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Encore: Sofia Helin Shines As Crown Princess Martha Of Norway 29:11

3M ago29:11

29:11

This is an encore release of an earlier podcast episode. Norwegian Crown Princess Martha was born in Sweden, but Swedish actor Sofia Helin didn’t know her story until she signed on to play the quiet Royal in Atlantic Crossing. But after coming on board the miniseries, Helin helped shape the story of the little-known Princess, bringing a surprising …

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The music of ‘Jaws’ continues to delight and frighten, 50 years later 35:49

3M ago35:49

35:49

It started as a minimalist, eerie musical phrase – one ominous note, then two, signifying the looming, underwater danger of a great white shark. Fifty years later, the theme to the 1975 Steven Spielberg blockbuster “Jaws” is just as recognizable and iconic as the film itself. We take a deep-dive into this musical masterpiece with two expert music p…

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LabCentral’s Juneteenth event showcases how local artists express resilience and joy 22:10

3M ago22:10

22:10

It’s been 160 years since the last enslaved people in the United States heard the news they were free. What was once celebrated on a city or state level is now celebrated nationwide as a federal holiday on June 19, also known as Juneteenth. In the spirit of the holiday, Cambridge’s LabCentral is hosting a special exhibit and panel discussion, cente…

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Encore: Screenwriter Alexander Eik Brings Forgotten WWII History To Life 33:46

3M ago33:46

33:46

This is an encore release of an earlier podcast episode. For American viewers, the story of Norway’s Crown Princess Märtha is likely mostly unknown. But the Crown Princess’ World War II influence was a surprise even for Atlantic Crossing co-writer and director Alexander Eik, who spent almost seven years researching his miniseries. Eik explains how …

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More than the ‘Big Head’: MFA hosts largest, decades-spanning exhibit of Roxbury artist John Wilson’s work 23:42

4M ago23:42

23:42

Throughout his career, artist John Wilson was inspired to capture the faces of his community: Black people who lived in Roxbury. He chose to do figurative paintings, drawings and sculptures, rather than abstract work, because he was determined that Black people should be seen in the fullness of their humanity. That was the overall theme of his work…

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Despite federal pushback, budget cuts and anti-trans executive orders, Pride Month forges on 34:17

4M ago34:17

34:17

It’s Pride Month … or is it Title IX Month? President Donald Trump’s administration continues to push back on the LGBTQ+ community through its ban on trans troops – and newly graduated trans cadets – in the military, potential federal budget cuts to a vital suicide prevention hotline that helps queer youth, and renaming a Navy ship dedicated to gay…

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Kick back and relax with one of our summer-reading picks of 2025 58:00

4M ago58:00

58:00

It’s nearly summertime, which means plenty of sunshine, slower days and lots of time to kick back with a new book. Whether it’s a mystery, thriller, romance, fantasy or nonfiction, there’s a perfect summer read for every book lover to enjoy by the beach, on an airplane or curled up on the couch. Three local librarians joined Callie Crossley for “Un…

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‘Runboyrun’ takes Ufot Family Cycle from the stage to your earbuds 25:51

4M ago25:51

25:51

In “Sojourners,” the first play of Mfoniso Udofia’s Ufot Family Cycle, audiences are introduced to Disciple, a graduate student who eventually becomes the Ufot patriarch. But as the drama unfolds play after play, Disciple grows increasingly erratic and intense, often prone to fits of rage. And it’s not until the third play in the cycle – “runboyrun…

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A moment or a movement? Reflecting on the death of George Floyd, five years later 32:09

4M ago32:09

32:09

On May 25, 2020, millions of people around the world watched in horror as white police officer Derek Chauvin pressed his knee to the neck of George Floyd, a Black man, on a Minnesota street. Nine minutes and 29 seconds later, Floyd was dead. His murder led to what some called a racial reckoning, sparking global protests, demands for police reform, …

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‘Jaja’s African Hair Braiding’ showcases the joys and struggles of African women immigrants in America 25:50

4M ago25:50

25:50

For many Black women, the hair salon is a cultural safe space, where stories and secrets help build an intimate community. In SpeakEasy Stage’s production of the Tony-winning play, “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding,” the West African immigrants who do the braiding and the customers seeking their services come together in a funny play that also explores…

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Unbound Pages: Former Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden explains why libraries are central to democracy 32:10

4M ago32:10

32:10

In 2016, President Barack Obama appointed Dr. Carla Hayden as the 14th Librarian of Congress, making her the first woman and the first African American to hold the position. Dr. Hayden’s tenure as Librarian of Congress abruptly ended on May 8, when she was fired from the position. Eight days before her dismissal, Dr. Hayden spoke with Callie Crossl…

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Gill Hornby, Miss Austen | MASTERPIECE Studio 32:44

4M ago32:44

32:44

WARNING: This episode contains spoilers for Miss Austen. Writer Gill Hornby has been a fan of Jane Austen’s work since she first read Mansfield Park as a teenager. But it wasn’t until Gill moved to the village of Kintbury that she became surrounded by and interested in Jane’s life. In her novel, Miss Austen, Gill explores the deep bond between Jane…

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What does it mean to be a ‘good mom’ in 2025? 33:03

4M ago33:03

33:03

Societal and cultural norms say mothers must be kind and nurturing, they must have endless patience for their children, they must be doting, attentive and protective, and they should be able to do it all — and be thrilled to do it all. But what does it mean to be a “good” mother in this day and age? We explore the complex and nuanced nature of moth…

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‘Joy Goddess’ spotlights Madam C.J. Walker’s daughter A’Lelia, who forged her own path 24:57

4M ago24:57

24:57

Rags-to-riches entrepreneur Madam C.J. Walker and her daughter, A’Lelia Walker, built one of the most successful African American hair care businesses in American history. But it was only after A’Lelia broke free of her mother’s singular vision that she found her calling in 1920s Harlem. That search for independence and purpose is at the center of …

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Treasure from the Trash Heap 23:15

4M ago23:15

23:15

Is it true that one person’s junk could actually be a treasure? If you’re an ANTIQUES ROADSHOW fan you might know our Junk in the Trunk specials – loving tributes to the left-over appraisals from the cities we visit each year. But what happened when an odd-looking pen was discovered during ROADSHOW’s 2023 visit to Akron, OH? Join host Adam Monahan …

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What clues can Trump’s first 100 days offer for the rest of his second presidency? 58:00

5M ago58:00

58:00

April 29, 2025 marked 100 days of President Donald Trump’s second term in office. In a little over three months, the president, alongside administration officials, Cabinet members, and Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency – or DOGE – have kept Trump’s promise to reshape the government. What can Americans expect for the rest of Trum…

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Encore: Gwyneth Hughes, Mr Bates vs The Post Office | MASTERPIECE Studio 32:53

4M ago32:53

32:53

This is an encore release of an earlier podcast episode. For writer Gwyneth Hughes, Mr Bates vs The Post Office is the perfect culmination of her years of experience as a journalist, documentarian, and dramatist. This week, Gwyneth joins us to discuss how she adapted this true story for the screen, and the real-life impact of this drama series as t…