The NPR bedroom voice

[G. Keenan]

Lately I've noticed that a lot of the women on NPR, primarily the ones on shows like This American Life, Weekend America, Re:sound, Radio Lab, and occasionally even the immortal Terry Gross, speak in this strange, mildly flirtatious, almost post-coital voice, or like they're stoned or something. Sometimes they seem to openly flirt with their interview subject. I find this very unprofessional and off-putting. It seems to be limited to the junior producers, or whatever you call the people who aren't on air every week. It's like they're trying to seduce the listener.

Anyone else notice this?

[Richie Allen]

I know what you're talking about and, yes, it annoying. I've also noticed that you don't hear that voice if they happen to be talking to someone who they don't agree with such as a conservative politician, however. Seems to be reserved for musicians, artists and liberals.

[thrill]

Yes.

I've also noticed that since the rise in popularity of This American Life, more and more male NPR voices are adopting Ira Glass's cadence and delivery. Maybe I'm insane, but I feel like it's the case.

[G. Keenan]

Yes.

I've also noticed that since the rise in popularity of This American Life, more and more male NPR voices are adopting Ira Glass's cadence and delivery. Maybe I'm insane, but I feel like it's the case.

Oh, definitely. I've been noticing that a lot lately. The guys on Radio Lab come to mind immediately on that point. Along with this I've noticed lots of other programs trying to make the credits fun at the end, like how TAL always does with Tory Malatea.

[Arthur Dent]

There are several shows attempting to be cheap copies of TAL.

That said, you think Terry Gross is flirtatious???

[Hungary Jack]

This is the beauty of radio.

[G. Keenan]

There are several shows attempting to be cheap copies of TAL.

That said, you think Terry Gross is flirtatious???

Not usually. I think Terry Gross does just about the best interviews there are. The other day though I head her interviewing some guy, I forget who exactly, and she was fawning all over him.

[Hungary Jack]

Did you say "post-coital?"

Before you guys get all hot and bothered:

Terry Gross


Nina Totenberg


Michelle Norris

[Popeye_Card]

I can't listen to NPR without thinking of Alec Ballwin's Schweaty Balls.

[omaha_red]

anyone talks [expletive] about terry gross has to deal with me..