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A Way with Words is an upbeat and lively show about language examined through culture, history, and family. Language debates, variations, and evolution, as well as new words, old sayings, slang, family expressions, word histories, etymology, linguistics, regional dialects, word games, grammar, books, literature, writing, and more.

A Way with Words

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A one-hour edition of the popular afternoon radio newsmagazine delivering breaking news mixed with compelling analysis, insightful commentaries, interviews and special features, and transforming the way listeners understand current events and view the world.
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Weekend All Things Considered

A one-hour edition of the popular afternoon radio newsmagazine delivering breaking news mixed with compelling analysis, insightful commentaries, interviews and special features, and transforming the way listeners understand current events and view the world.

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Studio 2

Studio 2 Archive

Fireworks cascade behind the central portico of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. (Jonathan Wilson for WHYY)
Studio 2
Urban Planning

Is Philly ready for USA 250?

With the nation's birthday just around the corner, will the city’s infrastructure will hold up as well as the Declaration of Independence?

Air Date: June 4, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 51:11
Studio 2
Lifestyle

How constraints make us happier and more productive

In a world with seemingly infinite competition for our time and attention, how do we decide what to prioritize?

Air Date: June 3, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 51:08
Studio 2

The state of ICE detention and deportation

Protests at Newark’s Delaney Hall are drawing public attention to conditions in ICE detention facilities.

Air Date: June 2, 2026 12:00 pm

Listen 51:11
Jeff Bezos, center left, and Lauren Sanchez, center right, kiss as they leave a hotel for their pre wedding reception, in Venice, Italy, Thursday, June 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)
Studio 2
Politics & Policy

Should billionaires pay more taxes?

As America’s billionaire class grows, some states and some in Congress are proposing a wealth tax. Polls show most Americans think the rich aren't paying their fair share.

Air Date: June 1, 2026 12:00 pm

Listen 51:14
(Photo by Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP)
Studio 2
Arts & Entertainment

Kurt Vile: Philadelphia’s Been Good to Me

Kurt Vile's latest album, an ode to his Philly roots, drops May 29. He joins Avi Wolfman-Arent to talk about his signature lo-fi, DIY, rock and roll sound.

Air Date: May 29, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 15:22
Studio 2
Arts & Entertainment

Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story

The filmmakers behind a new PBS documentary share the stories of indigenous people, enslaved Africans, and other diverse communities that helped shape our nation.

Air Date: May 28, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 51:42
Studio 2
Health

The Big Fix: getting kids off screens

Can we make technology safer and healthier for kids and teens? Do social media and phone bans actually work? And who should be responsible for setting the boundaries?

Air Date: May 27, 2026 12:00 pm

Listen 51:27
Work continues on the construction of the ballroom at the White House and a UFC cage on the South Lawn, Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
Studio 2
Politics & Policy

National politics roundup

We're hosting two political reporters to explore fault lines in the GOP, debates over the future of the Democratic Party, and rapidly evolving tensions abroad.

Air Date: May 26, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 51:10
Courtesy of NBC
Studio 2
Lifestyle

Where our accents come from; 90s Black sitcom history

A linguistics expert on the history and complexity of accents and subtle social cues that underpin them. Plus, a fascinating look at 90s TV hits like Martin and Living Single.

Air Date: May 25, 2026 12:00 pm

Listen 51:10
Kevin Day Photography
Studio 2
Lifestyle

Studio 2 Extra: Bestselling author Celeste Ng

In Our Missing Hearts, writer Celeste Ng meticulously crafts a near-future American dystopia, not far removed from the real world. It's the 'One Book, One Philadelphia' pick.

Air Date: May 22, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 22:06
Students arrive for the University of Pennsylvania graduation ceremony, Sunday, May 15, 2016, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Studio 2
Education

What makes a great commencement speech?

It's commencement speech season, when politicians, CEOs and celebrities impart words of wisdom to new graduates. What makes a speech resonate? How did this tradition evolve?

Air Date: May 21, 2026 12:00 pm

Listen 51:12
Chris Rabb looks on
Studio 2
Politics & Policy

What to make of the primary election results

What do yesterday’s primary results signal about the current political landscape? We’re unpacking local and national results and looking ahead at the key races to come.

Air Date: May 20, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 52:25
(Photo courtesy of Canva)
Studio 2
Health

Online health trends: fact versus fiction

Why are so many Americans turning to influencers for medical advice? And which online health trends are truly backed by science?

Air Date: May 19, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 51:11
(AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Studio 2
Politics & Policy

The rise of independent voters

According to a recent Gallup poll, 45% of Americans now consider themselves independent. What's behind the rise?

Air Date: May 18, 2026 1:00 pm

Listen 51:41
Studio 2
Money

Hacking your budget in an uncertain economy

In an uncertain economy with rising inflation, Americans are finding creative, even unorthodox ways to save money. Our experts share budgeting tips and tricks.

Air Date: May 14, 2026

Listen 51:40
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Studio 2

Airs Monday - Friday at noon and 10 p.m. on WHYY-FM

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Latest News

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  • ‘Abundant’ documentary screening in Philadelphia explores why people donate organs to strangers

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