The Theme Machine

The Theme Machine is not just a podcast — it’s a time capsule of conversation. Born from over four decades of radio dialogue, this show presents themed episodes curated from more than 5,000 interviews conducted by legendary radio host John Carney. Twice monthly, listeners are taken on an audio journey through a single theme, told by the voices who lived it.

 

One week, you might hear the behind-the-scenes stories of classic TV sitcoms from the actors, writers and producers who created them. Next, you'll be immersed in the mud, music, and magic of Woodstock through firsthand accounts. Other episodes explore rich themes like “Great Writers” or the enduring mystique of the Kennedys.

 

John Carney, a St. Louis radio icon and inductee into the Radio Hall of Fame alongside his father, Jack Carney, brings a legacy of storytelling and a unique interviewing style that captures the essence of each guest. The Theme Machine is his life’s work — a treasure trove of American voices and experiences.

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