TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live – Episode #895: Luke's Authentic Personality

Release Date: August 26, 2011
Hosts: Luke Burbank and Jen Flash Andrews
Guest: Dan Ristione

1. Introduction

In Episode #895 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, hosts Luke Burbank and Jen Flash Andrews delve into the theme of authenticity in broadcasting. The episode sets a reflective tone as Luke shares his experience of attending a radio coaching session aimed at uncovering his true personality behind the on-air persona.

2. Authenticity in Broadcasting

Luke opens the discussion by admitting, "[02:09] I am, as you're hearing my voice right now, in a fluorescently lit conference room at the Cairo radio station, learning how to get in touch with my, quote, authentic personality." This candid revelation sparks a humorous and honest conversation between Luke and Jen about the challenges of maintaining an authentic self in the world of talk show hosting.

Jen humorously remarks, "[02:33] So you're in an interesting position where you're going to have to make up a fake because you're very authentic, if anything." The duo explores the delicate balance between genuine expression and the constructed personas often adopted by media personalities.

3. Weekend Plans and Personal Anecdotes

The conversation naturally shifts to their weekend plans, revealing the hosts' diverse interests. Jen mentions her upcoming visit to see Huey Lewis and the News, while Luke plans to attend a Jeff Bridges concert featuring music from the film Crazy Heart. Their lighthearted banter showcases their enduring friendship and varied hobbies.

Luke also shares a personal milestone: "[05:09] I have a trip scheduled for tomorrow, too, which is kind of one of those, like, parenting things that's just kind of mind blowing, which is. I'm taking Addie to visit a college. We're going to Western to look around."

4. Listener Interaction: Classic Literature Discussion

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to a thoughtful discussion prompted by a listener letter from Crystal, who inquires about classic books every 10-year-old should read. This topic aligns with the backdrop of Banned Books Week, providing a platform for an engaging debate on the relevance and impact of classic literature in modern education.

5. Guest Interview: Dan Ristione on Classic Books

Dan Ristione, a well-read news editor and friend of the hosts, joins the conversation to offer his insights. When asked about books that left a lasting impression, Dan cites classics like To Kill a Mockingbird and Catcher in the Rye, stating, "[16:49] Dan Ristione: To Kill a Mockingbird."

The hosts and Dan delve into whether certain classics remain relevant for today's youth. Dan passionately defends Catcher in the Rye, arguing, "[17:17] Dan Ristione: If it's not shocking enough for the 21st century, the book isn't about shocking, it's about teenage angst. Does that change? I really don't think so."

Jen offers a contrasting perspective, expressing her critical view of Holden Caulfield's character: "[17:32] Jen Flash Andrews: I just found him kind of whiny and self. Indulgent. Annoying."

6. The Role of Required Reading in Education

The trio explores the broader implications of mandated reading lists, discussing whether forcing students to engage with challenging texts fosters a deeper appreciation for literature or inadvertently deters them from reading altogether. A listener comment addressed by Jen raises concerns: "[20:25] Another of our listeners, his point was that when you force kids to muddle through really difficult text, he's worried that it turns them off of reading like forever. That it could be like lasting damage."

Dan counters this by emphasizing the subconscious benefits of exposure to complex narratives: "[20:42] Dan Ristione: ...if you can't communicate, if you can't write, you're going to have a hard time in this world. So even if the intricacies of Moby Dick get by you, you still pick up something underneath the surface."

7. Personal Reading Habits and Recommendations

The conversation shifts to personal anecdotes about reading habits and favorite literature. Jen shares her affinity for Les Misérables, albeit through an abridged version: "[17:49] Jen Flash Andrews: I would say Les Miserables. ...the version I read had probably 200 pages in the Paris sewers."

Luke reflects on his own literary journey, recalling his high school reading of Les Misérables and his evolving relationship with literature: "[21:29] Jen Flash Andrews: ...she would just go back and reread these certain pages that she just found so moving. Whenever she was kind of feeling blue, she would just."

Dan discusses his voracious reading habits and the joy of discovering new authors: "[28:30] Dan Ristione: ...if I find a title that's interesting, I'll look, look, the greatest joy in my life is finding an author. I'll find that one book and I'll be like, oh, yeah. And then I'll read through their whole rest of their stuff."

Jen highlights the emotional connection readers can develop with characters, sharing her experience with Peace Like a River: "[32:07] Jen Flash Andrews: ...last year, I read this book by this NPR writer. His name's Leif Enger. It was called 'Peace Like a River.' And I loved that book. ... I slept with it kind of tucked under my arm for days and days."

8. Conclusion: The Enduring Importance of Reading

As the episode wraps up, Luke synthesizes the discussion by underscoring the timeless value of reading: "[33:23] Luke Burbank: ...if we can remember how much fun it is to actually read a book, then it doesn't feel snobbish. It doesn't feel like work. It's just another fun thing to do."

Dan echoes this sentiment, advocating for reading as a fundamental aspect of personal growth and communication: "[34:11] Dan Ristione: ...the vast majority of American males, they go right to the military history section and read about tanks and stuff like that. The percentage of people that read fiction is much smaller. ... It's worth it."

The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the show's camaraderie and a reminder of their commitment to engaging discussions: "As always, have a great weekend. Until then, no mountain too tall and... Good luck to all."

Notable Quotes

• Luke Burbank [02:09]: "I am, as you're hearing my voice right now, in a fluorescently lit conference room at the Cairo radio station, learning how to get in touch with my, quote, authentic personality."

• Dan Ristione [17:17]: "If it's not shocking enough for the 21st century, the book isn't about shocking, it's about teenage angst. Does that change? I really don't think so."

• Jen Flash Andrews [20:25]: "Another of our listeners... he's worried that it turns them off of reading like forever. That it could be like lasting damage."

• Dan Ristione [20:42]: "...if you can't communicate, if you can't write, you're going to have a hard time in this world."

• Jen Flash Andrews [32:07]: "I loved that book. ... I slept with it kind of tucked under my arm for days and days."

Episode Takeaways:

• Authenticity in Media: Exploring the tension between genuine self-expression and constructed personas in broadcasting.

• Literature's Role: Discussing the enduring relevance of classic literature in education and personal growth.

• Personal Growth through Reading: Highlighting how mandated and voluntary reading contribute to communication skills and emotional intelligence.

• Camaraderie and Community: Emphasizing the value of shared interests and discussions in fostering a connected listener community.

For Listeners: If you’re intrigued by thoughtful conversations on literature, personal authenticity, and the nuances of daily life, Episode #895 offers a rich and engaging experience. Tune in to hear Luke, Jen, and their guest Dan delve deep into topics that resonate both personally and universally.