Episode 480
with Mary Norris, Ryan O'Connell, and Dirty Revival
Host Luke Burbank and announcer Elena Passarello share some favorite words submitted by listeners; grammar expert Mary Norris recounts her early days as a copy editor at The New Yorker and her foray into all things Greek; actor and television writer Ryan O’Connell explains how keeping his cerebral palsy a secret inspired his book and Netflix series Special; soul-rock group Dirty Revival tear down the house with “Pipe Dreams.”
Mary Norris
Grammar Expert
Mary Norris joined the editorial staff of The New Yorker in 1978 and was a copy editor and proofreader there for more than thirty years. She’s also the wickedly funny New York Times-best-selling author of Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen (named a best book of the year in 2015 by NPR, The Wall Street Journal, and more). Her second book, Greek to Me: Adventures of the Comma Queen, maintains Norris’s vise-grip on grammar and irreverent punctuation protocols while touching upon the culture and language that has subtly shaped her life. Her charming linguistic know-how makes the rules of good writing simple: whatever Mary Norris decrees to be good writing, is. You don't argue with the comma queen. Website • Twitter
Ryan O’Connell
Actor and Writer
From writing to performing to showcasing his own self-acceptance, it takes a special talent to be in Ryan O’Connell’s league. He has penned scripts for Awkward, Will & Grace, and the second 90210 reboot on his way to writing, creating, and starring in his autobiographical Netflix show, Special. Based on his memoir I’m Special: And Other Lies We Tell Ourselves, Special captures O’Connell’s flair for hilarious, subtly scathing social commentary and thoughtful ruminations on his experience as a gay, disabled man. O’Connell’s newest project is Queer As Folk, Peacock’s reimagination of the hit British series of the same name, where he will serve as a cast member, writer, and co-executive producer. Instagram
Dirty Revival
Band
Dirty Revival is shaking things up as they make you boogie down. The seven-piece soul/rock band from Portland takes a democratic approach to their songwriting, with all members contributing to their unique sound. From 60’s and 70’s soul and funk to more modern rock and pop, their original music effortlessly incorporates several different genres of music. The lively group has shared the stage with musicians like George Clinton, performed at festivals across the country, and released a self-titled full-length album followed by two singles, “Closer” and “So Cold”. Known for their inspired songwriting, electric live performances, and dynamic covers of classics, Dirty Revival will captivate you with their passion and performance. Listen • Website