Hilton Als is an intellectual omnivore who roots his art and criticism in reality and truth. Als talks with Helga Davis about being comfortable owning your anger and art-making.

In Sarah Jones's one-woman shows, she seamlessly slips into characters of different classes, races and genders. Jones and Davis talk self-love in a culture that teaches self-alienation.

The young Juilliard-trained soprano Julia Bullock is making waves for her stunning performances and bold choice of roles. She talks with Davis about finding her place in today's culture.

For conductor Alejandro Hernandez-Valdez, an attentive and hungry audience is one of the essential parts of creating a transcendent musical experience. He talks with host Helga Davis.

Alan Gilbert is in his final season as music director of the New York Philharmonic. He talks with Helga Davis about serving a community and the moments in performance he lives for.

The pop star singer-songwriter Solange talks with Helga Davis about finding autonomy in the music business and about being black and beautiful in contemporary America.

Violin soloist Jennifer Koh has never cancelled a gig. Even when she had swine flu. Host Helga Davis speaks with Koh about determination and empathy in this episode of the Helga podcast.

Recently awarded the Pulitzer Prize, jazz composer Henry Threadgill talks with Helga about giving license to your imagination and pushing yourself to go beyond excellence to greatness.

Singer, composer and My Brightest Diamond's frontwoman Shara Nova talks to Helga about choosing a new city, leaning into vulnerability, and how her new names translates to "new song."