Ira Glass
Mentioned in 30 analyzed podcast episodes across 10 shows
Host and co-founder of the influential public radio program This American Life, where he narrates and contextualizes episodes on diverse topics ranging from immigration to human connection. Widely recognized as a foundational figure in audio storytelling and podcast production, with his vocal style and narrative techniques cited as major influences on contemporary podcasters and audio creators. Frequently referenced in podcast discussions as a cultural touchstone for innovative long-form audio journalism and storytelling methodology.
Appears On
Episode Appearances
Twenty Thousand Hertz · May 18, 2026
Age of Audio: The Inside Story of Podcasting
“Created This American Life; pioneered narrative podcast storytelling format that influenced entire industry”
This American Life · May 17, 2026
887: Two Is One, One Is None!
“Regular host of This American Life; mentioned in closing credits and end segment”
Spooked · May 15, 2026
Isabelle - Classic
“Host introducing the episode and framing the paranormal narrative”
This American Life · May 10, 2026
318: With Great Power
“Host and narrator of the episode, introduces stories and themes about power and responsibility”
Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques · May 4, 2026
285. Think Inside the Box: How Constraints Spark Creativity and Communication
“Developed rigorous editing process using read-throughs and audience feedback to identify confusion points”
This American Life · May 3, 2026
886: Blackout
“Regular host of This American Life; Hannah Jaffee-Waltz sitting in for this episode”
This American Life · May 1, 2026
Ira (Reluctantly) Gives a Graduation Speech
“Host reflecting on his experience giving a reluctant graduation speech at Goucher College in 2012.”
This American Life · Apr 26, 2026
466: Blackjack
“Podcast host who attempted card counting at Atlantic City casino with producer Robin, losing $348 in two hours”
This American Life · Apr 19, 2026
393: Infidelity
“Host and narrator of the episode exploring infidelity through personal stories”
This American Life · Apr 12, 2026
885: Bless This Mess
“Regular host of This American Life, mentioned as returning next week”
NPR News Now · Apr 12, 2026
NPR News: 04-12-2026 11AM EDT
“Host of This American Life podcast segment featured at episode end”
Fresh Air · Apr 10, 2026
St. Vincent
“Introduced Fresh Air episode with reference to This American Life storytelling approach”
NPR's Book of the Day · Apr 10, 2026
New children’s books center intergenerational relationships in life and the afterlife
“Mentioned as host of This American Life, referenced in podcast advertisement segment”
NPR News Now · Apr 8, 2026
NPR News: 04-08-2026 6PM EDT
“Introduced This American Life segment about unexpected life changes”
Fresh Air · Apr 8, 2026
Humorist Annabelle Gurwitch faces stage 4 cancer, finds ‘unexpected joys’
“Referenced in episode opening discussing narrative storytelling about life changes”
This American Life · Apr 5, 2026
212: The Other Man
“Host and producer of This American Life episode 212”
A Hot Dog Is a Sandwich · Apr 1, 2026
Trying All The Rollie Tube Foods at 7-Eleven
“Referenced as 'greatest podcaster of all time' whose speaking style (pauses between words) is being emulated”
This American Life · Mar 29, 2026
884: The Idiot
“Hosts This American Life and interviews M. Gessen about 'The Idiot' podcast”
Life Kit · Mar 24, 2026
"Just A guy, not THE guy," and other advice Marielle loves
“Provides promotional segment for This American Life podcast at episode start”
This American Life · Mar 22, 2026
883: Call Your Parents
“Host reflecting on how radio appearances with his parents healed their fractured relationship”
A Hot Dog Is a Sandwich · Feb 11, 2026
Taste Testing Doritos Naked
“NPR host referenced as cultural touchstone for vocal style and podcast production influence”
Twenty Thousand Hertz · Feb 9, 2026
The State of the 20K Multiverse™
“This American Life host cited as major influence on Dallas's audio storytelling techniques”
This American Life · Feb 8, 2026
75: Kindness of Strangers
“Host and co-founder of This American Life who introduces and narrates the episode”
The Moth · Feb 6, 2026
Love Hurts: The Moth Podcast
“Host of This American Life; featured in promotional segment discussing storytelling approach”
This American Life · Feb 1, 2026
880: What Is Your Emergency?
“Host of This American Life; narrates and contextualizes the episode's reporting on immigration enforcement”
This American Life · Jan 25, 2026
851: Try a Little Tenderness
“Host and executive editor of This American Life, framing the episode's theme of tenderness”
This American Life · Jan 12, 2026
The Americans Outside My Window
“Host of This American Life who introduces and contextualizes the Venezuela episode”
This American Life · Jan 11, 2026
878: New Lore Drop
“Host and executive producer of This American Life podcast.”
This American Life · Dec 24, 2025
Christmas and Commerce
“Host and co-founder of This American Life; introduces the Christmas special and provides framing commentary”
The Rich Roll Podcast · Nov 10, 2025
Tig Notaro Is Treading Water
“Encouraged Notaro to record her 2012 Largo show; collaborated on Taylor Dane story for radio”