Mavis Staples is a legendary R&B and gospel singer. She began singing as part of a family gospel group formed by her father called The Staple Singers. Her newest album, produced by Jeff Tweedy of Wilco, is called You Are Not Alone.

First, "Ragtag", a sketch from LA-based comedy group Cream; then a monthly wrap-up of what's up and what's down with Jordan Morris for "Jordan Ranks America".

Adam Reed is a writer, director, producer and voice actor.  He was the co-creator of the Adult Swim animated series Sealab 2021 and Frisky Dingo.  He's also the mind behind the FX show Archer, which is entering its second season.

Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein are the stars of a new TV show on IFC called "Portlandia", an affectionate skewering of the young people's bohemian paradise that is Portland, Oregon.

Heartlines, the late night call-in request show -- "turn on your heartlight and send out a heartline."

David Rakoff is an essayist, journalist, and a regular contributor to This American Life.  His latest book is a collection of essays called Half Empty, on taking down optimism and championing pessimism.

A standup set from one of our comedy heroes, Maria Bamford. Recorded at our last Laugh Night, a benefit for Art Share in Los Angeles.

Lynda Barry is a legend of alternative comics. Her strip Ernie Pook's Comeek earner her a reputation as sweet, funny and fearless. Her two most recent books are about how to create art and writing.