Episode 448

with Naomi Ekperigin, Anis Mojgani, and The War and Treaty

In celebration of Valentine's Day, host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello give some love to the inanimate objects that get us through life; comedian Naomi Ekperigin, who co-hosts the podcast Couples Therapy with her partner, riffs on her reluctance towards motherhood; Poet Laureate of Oregon Anis Mojgani rewrites a love poem to reflect his post-divorce reality; and husband and wife duo The War and Treaty perform their heart-wrenching song "Five More Minutes."

Naomi Ekperigin
Comedian, Actress & Writer

Naomi Ekperigin is ball of talent wrapped in a cloak of charm surrounded by a cloud of delight. She’s a prolific actor, stand-up comedian, and writer who has written for Great News, Broad City, and HBO’s upcoming series Mrs. Fletcher. She’s told hilarious and insightful jokes on Late Night with Seth Meyers, HBO’s 2 Dope Queens, and in her very own Comedy Central half hour special. She also co-hosts the popular live show and podcast Couples Therapy which combines the fun of a comedy show with the intimacy of a therapy session. Website • Twitter

Anis Mojgani
Poet

Anis Mojgani is Oregon’s current Poet Laureate and the author of five books of poetry. His work has appeared on HBO, NPR, and in journals Bat City Review, Rattle, Buzzfeed Reader, Thrush, and Forklift Ohio, amongst others. A two time National Poetry Slam Champion and winner of the International World Cup Poetry Slam, Anis has done commissioned work for the Getty Museum, the Peabody Essex Museum, and the Portland Timbers. Originally from New Orleans, Anis currently lives in Portland, OR, where he serves on the Board of Directors for Literary Arts. His latest collection is In the Pockets of Small Gods. Website • Twitter

The War and Treaty
Musical Duo

The War and Treaty have amassed a following as eclectic as their sound. Known for a live show nearly revival-like in intensity, the husband-and-wife team of Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Blount-Trotter endlessly create an exhilarating exchange of energy with their audience, a dynamic they’ve brought to the stage in opening for the legendary Al Green and touring with the likes of Brandi Carlile and Jason Isbell. So when it came time to choose a title for their sophomore album, The War And Treaty quickly landed on Hearts Town — the Nashville duo’s adoring nickname for their ardently devoted fanbase. Twitter • Listen