To follow up last week's conversation on the robot hordes I talk with authors and podcasters, Emily M. Bender and Alex Hanna about AI hype. The two argue in their new book The AI Con, that there is nothing intelligent about machine learning and that the technology is nothing more than "souped-up autocomplete." They discuss the ways in which we, as humans, have been duped into thinking that AI is going to either save us or devour us when, in reality, the results show there is no actual intelligence occurring. With a success rate barely better than 20%, Emily and Alex warn us against relying on machine learning for important tasks and jobs, like replacing air traffic controllers? Just like the tech boom of the '90s, they predict an AI bubble is forming. A very fun and, in the opinion of this luddite, hopeful message. The AI Con - https://www.amazon.com/AI-Fight-Techs-Create-Future/dp/0063418568 Mystery AI Hype Theater - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mystery-ai-hype-theater-3000/id1690426042 Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

AI and data analytics have created some miraculous efficiencies over the last couple of years. AI helps me stay organized and assists with research and interview prep. Sometimes, you just need a mindless automaton. That said, when it comes time to buy my groceries, I want to talk to a clerk. I want my hair cut by my barber, Chuck—the same guy I’ve been going to for the last 50 years. I need that human connection to maintain my sanity. Every day, we hear about new ways technology is making our lives easier. But are we losing something in the process? Are you ready for AI therapy or AI schoolteachers? Today, I talk with Johns Hopkins University professor Allison Pugh about what gets lost when we reduce the human connections we once took for granted. Now I will run this through ChatGPT to edit for grammar and spelling. Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

I recently read a New York Times article titled "The Gen X Career Meltdown," which discussed how GenXers are aging out of the workforce early due to technology and the collapse of the creative industries. It reminded me of an old friend, journalist and literary editor, Jim Thomsen. Jim writes on Substack about the bittersweet journey of chasing his dream job for most of his professional life—only to find himself, in his late 50s, broke and unemployable. Forced to figure things out, Jim gets a job at the US Postal Service and, in doing so, finds creative renewal by restructuring his life. As Robert Townsend said in Hollywood Shuffle, “There’s always work at the post office.” Jim Thomsen Substack - https://jimthomsen.substack.com New York Times, "The Gen X Career Meltdown" - https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/03/28/style/gen-x-creative-work.html Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Author JW Ocker is a man who has devoted himself to the study and research of bizarre cultural phenomena. In his book Cult Following: the Extreme Sects that Capture our Imagination - And Take Over our Lives, he sets his sights on cults. This week on A Fresh Face in Hell, JW joins me to discuss cults, their origins, belief systems, paradigms, recruitment techniques, and their sometimes fiery ends. We'll delve into some strange shit this week. Listener discretion is advised. https://www.amazon.com/Cult-Following-Extreme-Capture-Imaginations_and/dp/1683694120 Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Today we hear stories from the road with rock n' roll tour manager Danny Bland. After decades of playing in bands like Cat Butt, Best Kissers in the World, and The Dwarves, Danny used his experience to become a legendary tour manager. From Dave Alvin, Willie Nelson, John Doe to the Blasters and the Supersuckers, Danny operates as a referee, therapist, and coach to many road-weary rockstars. He gathers food, negotiates with club owners, and he can tell you the best book store in every major American city. He hates the sun, he's on the road for 300 days a year, AND he's never heard a Beatles song to completion. He is a rock n' roll road warrior. Danny is the author of "In Case We Die", available at your local bookstore. https://www.fantagraphics.com/products/in-case-we-die?srsltid=AfmBOoruLvyqPVKCSVYIqFHZ0xoDGd2zc8qogT-1bazLnPPLIw_x-jCH Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

When doing research for my novels, I often consult historians, scholars, and professionals to create more nuanced profiles for my characters. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with some truly fascinating people in incredible careers. Today, I want to tap into that by bringing on one of my favorites—a talented ER nurse named Lexi. Having spent many hours in emergency rooms myself, I’ve always found this environment endlessly fascinating. The ER is both the grease trap of the American medical system—Lexi has been spat on and even strangled by her patients—and a vital, life-saving part of every community. She’s witnessed strange occurrences, embarrassing foreign objects, countless deaths, and thousands of grateful patients—all in just three twelve-hour shifts each week. Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Been going down a CRISPR rabbit hole lately and wanted to talk to someone that is up to date on the world's most powerful gene editing technology. Kevin Davies is an Oxford trained science journalist and the author of Editing Humanity: The CRISPR Revolution and the New Era of Genome Editing. CRISPR is an enzyme that is found in bacteria that scientists have repurposed to surgically replace pieces of DNA for a myriad of purposes, like curing Sickle Cell Disease. The future potential of this technology is incredible, cure for cancer? A replacement for antibiotics. Fixing food chains and even global warming. The technology is also rife with moral conundrums including difficulties in regulating experimentation and DIY biohacking. A fascinating conversation about bio-futurism, for better or worse. Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Humans are not the only species who have devised complex languages. How do their languages differ from ours? What can we learn from their languages? Do Spanish dogs understand Japanese dogs? How can our own knowledge of animal language help us in the realm of Xenolinguistics, and the search for intelligent extraterrestrial life? Today I rap with Cambridge zoologist Dr. Arik Kershenbaum about animal language. Arik is the Author of Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication. Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Today, I speak with Ellen Vora, MD, about understanding, treating, and living with anxiety—a condition she thoroughly explores in her book The Anatomy of Anxiety . Ellen and I discussed some of my experiences with anxiety over the past few years. We explore some practical tools to manage the nervous system, from lifestyle changes to therapy, and even spirituality. While it’s not quite a free therapy session, it’s also not your typical interview. Either way, I hope it offers helpful insights for those struggling to understand and manage their own anxiety. Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Today, I speak with an old friend, Claire Dederer, about her seminal book, Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma. We ask the question: Is it possible to appreciate an artist's work if the artist's behavior is monstrous? Is the work of artists like Woody Allen, Roman Polanski, Prince, and Alice Munro better understood if we have a greater awareness of the complexities of their lives, or is there a point at which the work is spoiled forever? At what point can we no longer separate the art from the artist? What is your breaking point? https://www.clairedederer.com/ Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Today, I have a conversation with my old friend Jeff Ament. We discussed his incredible rock 'n' roll journey—from the Seattle hardcore scene of the '80s to the rise of '90s Grunge, and eventually becoming the rock star bassist of Pearl Jam. Jeff is like the "Lucy" of Grunge, with stints in three of Seattle's most influential bands: Green River, Mother Love Bone, and Pearl Jam. We talked about his surprising influences and the transformative moments that helped shape what we now know as Pearl Jam. A fun ride for music fans, and to top it off, he loves my books! Go to Substack to watch the full interview: https://substack.com/@afreshfaceinhell Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Today I speak with journalist and author Rita Omokha about her new book, Resist. We discuss how young Black activists like Ella Baker, Barbara Johns, and Johnetta Elzie have shaped our understanding of the power of organized action—not just in the Civil Rights Movement but in all forms of political protest. As we face the remainder of Trump's presidency (1424 days, 02 hours, and 50 minutes), it's encouraging to hear about the ways we can resist the fascists and racists, both in small and large ways. https://www.ritaomokha.com Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Renowned NY Times science columnist, Carl Zimmer, talks with me about his new book, Air-Borne: The Hidden History of the Life We Breathe . We talk about the air we breathe, the gazillions of microbes, bacteria, fungus and viruses that float effortlessly around us daily. From the oceans depths to our nostrils we take in all manner of life, most of it harmless but some of it nightmarish. No one explains science better than Carl Zimmer folks!! https://carlzimmer.com/ Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

I thought we could all use something a little lighthearted this week — a welcome distraction from the constant news cycle. So today, I’m catching up with my old friend Warren Etheredge. Warren is a producer, author, playwright, festival programmer, and public speaker. He's deeply involved in the annual Seattle International Film Festival and teaches film studies at Cornish College and the University of Washington. Warren claims to watch somewhere between 1,200 and 1,500 short films every year. Today, we’re diving into comedies — highbrow, lowbrow, and everything in between. We make no distinctions, just films that tickle our funny bones again and again. What are some of your favorite comedies? From the criminally underrated to the comically overrated, we’re covering the best (and the wurst). So, put on your sweats, grab your Dune bucket of popcorn, and let’s head to the movies! Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

My friend and NY Times bestselling author, podcast contributor, teacher, and political activist, Steve Almond, joins me to discuss his seminal book Against Football. We dive deep into our toxic love affair with the gridiron, exploring its narrative strengths, subtle complexities, and its unique ability to unite people. At the same time, we weigh these against the darker side of the sport—nationalism, greed, racism, and misogyny—and ask what this says about us as a nation. As we head into Super Bowl Sunday, a game that few outside of KC or Philly seem to care about, we invite you to evaluate whether it’s all worth it. Be sure to check out Steve’s books at: https://stevealmondjoy.org Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

This week, we talk about church--specifically Christian church. I’ll be talking with two Evangelical pastors, Andrew Hirschman of Calvary Ballard, and David Rivers of Calvary Sequim, about being a pastor in 2025. We’ll talk about the threat of Christian Nationalism, declining numbers among their congregations, and the challenges of filling their chapels in an increasingly secular culture. Andrew Hirschman - https://calvaryballard.com/ David Rivers - https://www.calvarychapelsequim.com/ Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Josh Fernandez is one of my favorite people. Antifa organizer, anarchist, community activist and college educator. Josh walks the walk. When he’s not punching nazis, he’s taking care of his community in a myriad of ways, volunteering and coordinating. Oh, and when he’s not chasing his two adorable kids around, he’s teaching in prisons. Josh is the author of The Hands that Crafted the Bomb. https://www.amazon.com/Hands-that-Crafted-Bomb-Antifascist/dp/B0BYVFPHTN Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

This week, I talk to writer and anthropologist, Brian McVeigh, about Julian Jaynes's bicameral mind theory, as detailed in his seminal work, The Origins of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind. It’s a theory that forces us to question the evolution of consciousness as we know it. We explore the theory and its relevance to world history, mental health, religion and politics. Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Filmmakers, explorers and brothers, Jim and Will Pattiz, talk with Jonathan about the National Parks ranking they do yearly for their popular site "More Then Just Parks". Some great tips and inspirations as well as some thoughts about preservation. Check out their list and a trailer for their documentary on the late great President Jimmy Carter: https://morethanjustparks.com/national-parks-ranked/ https://carterlandmovie.com Check them on IG: https://www.instagram.com/morethanjustparks Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

On a very special episode of A Fresh Face in Hell I talk to my pal, New York Times bestselling author Jamie Ford about generational trauma, epigenetics, two themes in his most recent novel, 'The Many Daughters of Afong Moy'. Jamie and I will talk about our personal experiences with trauma, and the journey toward overcoming our past, including Jamie’s experience at trauma camp last summer. https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Many-Daughters-of-Afong-Moy/Jamie-Ford/9781982158224 Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

This week, I’ll talk to New York Times bestseller, activist, and public speaker Stephanie Land, author of Maid (also a hugely popular Netflix series), and most recently, Class. Stephanie and I will discuss class in America. We’ll talk specifically about our personal experiences overcoming the stigmas of growing up working class poor, and the realities of living in poverty in America. https://www.powells.com/book/class-9781982151393 Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

This week, I’m gonna rap with legendary sportswriter, and New York Times Bestselling Author Joe Posnanski about the cult of sabermetrics, and how analytics are changing the way baseball is played, as well as changing the culture as a whole. We will also wax poetic about some of the iconic moments that shaped not only the greatest game, but America’s story, in his book. Why We Love Baseball: A History in 50 Moments. https://sites.prh.com/whywelovebaseball Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

This week I talk with Sander van den Linden, author of Foolproof : Why Misinformation Infects Our Minds and How to Build Immunity. Sander is one of the world’s leading experts on misinformation. He’s going to lay out a crucial new paradigm for understanding and defending ourselves against the worldwide infodemic. Why are we so vulnerable to misinformation? How do we navigate a world where literally almost every piece of information we encounter, particularly online, seems suspect? Play Bad News Game: https://www.getbadnews.com/en Misinformation Susceptibility Test: https://www.cam.ac.uk/stories/misinformation-susceptibility-test Website: https://www.sandervanderlinden.com Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

This week, I talk to my pal, journalist, radio personality, and longtime Seahawk insider, Danny O’Neil. Danny is a man who spends a lot of time thinking about grudges, he even publishes a newsletter called Grudgery (subscribe @ https://www.grudgery.com ). We’re gonna a do a deep dive on grudges: the how, the what, the why of them. Which grudges are forgivable, and which ones irredeemable? What do our grudges say about us as people? Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

I talk to my old pal, super fuzzy guitar legend and writer of punk rock folk songs, Steve Turner of Mudhoney. We’re gonna talk about collecting records, the early days of the Seattle punk scene, Steve’s long journey in music, from basements to arenas, and his excellent memoir Mud Ride. Mud Ride: https://www.powells.com/book/mud-ride-9781797217222 Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

As an artist, rattling cages is often part of the job description. Growing up in punk bands it was basically my objective in life as a teenager. When I wrote my fifth novel, Lawn Boy, in 2016, I was trying to rattle some cages about wealth inequity and the perils of late capitalism. But I had no idea, it would become the second most banned book in America, for altogether different reasons. Kasey Meehan from the Pen Center in New York is an expert in book banning, and a leading advocate for free speech. We’re gonna take a deep dive into book banning, including a recently released study Kasey will break down for us. https://pen.org/report/beyond-the-shelves/ Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/…

Welcome to A Fresh Face in Hell Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHzj0CG30y8 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreshFacePod_Evison Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacepod.evison/