This American Life documents and describes contemporary America, but it is, quite literally, a new kind of radio storytelling.

Built around the innovative personal vision of host Ira Glass, the program explores a weekly theme - fiascos, conventions, the job that takes over your life - through a playful mix of radio monologues, mini-documentaries, "found tape," short fiction, and unusual music.  The stories presented are engaging, intimate, surprising, funny, disturbing, bittersweet.