
Our greatest actors transport us through the magic of fiction, one short story at a time. Sometimes funny. Always moving. Selected Shorts connects you to the world with a rich diversity of voices from literature, film, theater, and comedy. New episodes every Thursday, from Symphony Space.
| Publishes | Twice weekly | Episodes | 37 | Founded | 19 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | BooksArtsFiction | |||

Meg Wolitzer presents three stories that explore good intentions and how they can go wrong. In “Mantis,” by Gina Chung, a deadly insect tries to mend her ways. The reader is Monica Raymund. Dino Buzzati’s “The Jacket,” translated from the Italian b... more
Host Meg Wolitzer presents the podcast Before The Moment, hosted by music icon Nile Rodger. Nile sits down with some of music’s biggest names to uncover the turning points that defined them, and, importantly, what was happening before everything chan... more
Meg Wolitzer presents three stories in that explore the idea of “fitting in,” and whether it’s worth the effort. In “Reality,” by Diana Spechler, a woman longs for the ephemeral glory of a reality show. It’s read by Kirsten Vangsness. “Long Hair,” b... more
On this episode, a story about bad behavior. But it's also about family and the limits of forgiveness. While this story wasn't written that long ago, due to technological advancements, it feels like a piece of the past. Just 10, even 5 years ago, you... more
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I used to listen to this podcast faithfully every week and then I’d listen to them again but not anymore. There are people out here who have an attention span of more than 7 minutes. We actually listened to the entire podcast when it was an hour long! Not anymore. You gave up quality for quantity. You lost this faithful listener. How many more did you gain?
I enjoy listening to the stories and learning about the authors and readers. Perfect for the campfire, chopping wood, or making a long drive more enjoyable. Thanks!
Too much commentary, diatribes, and analysis. I spend as much time fast forwarding through the talking as I do listening to the readings. Interviews belong on a different podcast.
I wish Meg would stick to a simple introduction presenting the title, author, and reader. Too much commentary.
As an avid pod listener/former big reader who has fallen out of that habit in recent years, this show is reminding me of the value in the latter - i’m LOVING it!! Was moved to leave a good review after the last story “Arrangements” in the latest episode (Modest Expectations). Richly written stories with nuances and variety, which is hard to come across in the podcast world sometimes. So good!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #8 | |
Apple Podcasts | #31 | |
Apple Podcasts | #15 | |
Apple Podcasts | #51 | |
Apple Podcasts | #168 | |
Apple Podcasts | #23 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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A literary-arts podcast that pairs short fiction with live readings, anchored by a thoughtful host who guides discussions, author context, and performance. Episodes showcase a wide range of contemporary short stories, classic pieces, and themed salons, often interspersed with author intros, reader performances, and occasional branded segments. Notable elements include a strong emphasis on literary analysis, high-profile reader performances, and collaborations with literary communities, which can create a rich, theater-like listening experience. Potential listeners may appreciate nuanced storytelling, literary debates, and performances by accomplished actors, with occasional health or travel-themed and promotional interludes that broaden the... more
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These podcasts share a similar audience with Selected Shorts:
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2. The New Yorker: Fiction
3. The Moth
4. This American Life
5. Snap Judgment
Selected Shorts launched 19 years ago and published 37 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Selected Shorts include:
1. Molly Bernard
2. Jane Curtin
3. Tim Curry
4. Ato Blankson-Wood
5. Daniel Kehlmann
6. Trace Dominguez
7. Lily King
8. George Saunders
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