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Comedian Margaret Smith

Smith has showcased her deadpan humor on stage and television, including spots on the Late Show with David Letterman. Lately, she's been more interested in acting, hoping to distance herself from what she sees as sexist and racist trends in the world of stand-up.

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Other segments from the episode on August 18, 1988

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, August 18, 1988: Interview with James Conaway; Review of Frank Zappa's album "You Can't Do that on Stage Anymore, Vol. 1" ; Interview with Margaret Smith; Review of the…
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27:51

Finding "The Kingdom in the Country"

James Conway's new book looks at the American west, which he sees as a refuge for individuals who choose unique ways of making a living, including gunslinging and ranching. He reports on environmental concerns, disputes over public lands, and the growing of marijuana.

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05:41

The Frank Zappa Paradox

Rock critic Ken Tucker says that the talented musician often subverts his often good music to make dumb, dirty jokes. Whether you think Zappa is a genius or a jerk will determine whether you'll invest in Rykodisc's new collections of his live performances.

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How 'SNL' alum Molly Shannon found profound healing after childhood tragedy

As a cast member of Saturday Night Live from 1995 until 2001, Molly Shannon became famous for playing Catholic schoolgirl Mary Katherine Gallagher. That should have felt like a triumph, but instead, she felt depressed. Shannon's mother, along with her 3-year-old sister and a cousin, died decades earlier, when her father, who had been drinking, crashed the family car into a pole. For years, the memory of her mother and sister propelled her forward in her career. Her new memoir Hello, Molly! recounts the tragic as well as the wonderful turning points in her life.

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Daughter of Warhol star looks back on a bohemian childhood in the Chelsea Hotel

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