Rephonic
Artwork for The Object
Art
Gift Giving
Minneapolis Institute Of Art
Civil Rights Movement
Joe Minter
Dragons
Black Codes
Segregation
School Shootings
Dogs
Tibetan Buddhism
Vietnam War
Tatra
Santiago Rusiñol
Georgia O'keeffe
American Gothic
Children's Literature
Birmingham, Alabama
World War II
Grant Wood

”The Object” podcast explores the surprising, true stories behind museum objects with wit and curiosity. An object’s view of us. Hosted by Tim Gihring, produced by the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes109Founded7 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
ArtsHistory

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Artwork for The Object

Latest Episodes

It's the Season 8 premiere! Claude Monet, by the 1900s, is the most famous artist in the world, a singular genius (if not exactly genial). But there is another Monet: Blanche Hoschedé Monet. The only artist Claude Monet takes under his wing—and almos... more

New season begins March 16! Now, an encore episode that was our most popular story a few seasons ago. About a woman who was once of the most recognizable  in the world, her long copper hair filling painting after painting, even if few people knew her... more

Season 8 of The Object begins March 16! All-new episodes, bonus content, and more about the almost famous, the nearly lost, and more surprising true stories at the intersection of art and history. Subscribe now so you never miss an episode!

Now, enj... more

This rollicking, sold-out live show of The Object podcast was recorded February 7, 2026, at the Minneapolis Institute of Art with host Tim Gihring and musical guest jeremy messersmith. It's our Valentine's show, with quizzes, storytelling, and curato... more

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Recent Guests

Rachel McGarry
Curator of European art at the museum
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Episode: The Object LOVE! Don't Go Breaking My Art!
Jeremy Messersmith
Musician known for blending themes of love and death in his songs
Episode: The Object LOVE! Don't Go Breaking My Art!
Chan Poling
Musician, founding member of The Suburbs, and creator of multiple musical projects
The Suburbs
Episode: The Object LIVE! Great Gatsby's Ghost!
Lori Williamson
Curator of the Gatsby at 100 exhibit
Episode: The Object LIVE! Great Gatsby's Ghost!
Lizzi Ginsberg
Arts writer and guest on the episode
Episode: A Woman Called Wanda
Joe Minter
81-year-old artist known for his expansive outdoor art installation reflecting the Black American experience
Episode: Yard Show: The World According to Joe

Host

Tim Gihring
Host of The Object; affiliated with the Minneapolis Institute of Art

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars from 219 ratings
  • Beautifully written stories about art and life

    My favorite podcast ever . So well written and produced. I episodes were more frequent. Do good!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    MinnetonkaSunshine
    United Statesa month ago
  • Wonderful podcast!

    Informative, soothing narration. I LOVE this podcast so much.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Ragtaghorde
    United States10 months ago
  • Excellent Podcast!!

    I love this podcast so much!! Thank you for sharing the beautiful pieces at Mia and the fascinating history and context behind each. I feel like I’m getting a little “tea” in each episode, as well. Love Tim’s intelligent and slightly gossipy (in the best way) vibe.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    LisaO30
    United Statesa year ago
  • Good content, but…

    There’s a lot to like about this podcast, but the unfortunate verbal tic of the narrator saying “Right” 12-15 times an episode is just too distracting.

    Apple Podcasts
    3
    kkjjjo7
    United Statesa year ago
  • Mesmerizing storytelling

    I absolutely love this podcast. Every episode is well written and the narrator’s voice and pacing makes listening quite enjoyable. The background information as well as the description of the art is so detailed I am able to picture it in my mind, but at the same time I’m drawn to seeing it in person. Well done!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    MoSync
    United Statesa year ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Listeners appreciate the warm, engaging host and the educational depth of each object.
Well-written storytelling with witty narration and strong art history context.
Praises for pacing and informative background, though a few note inconsistencies in vocal delivery.

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

The Object LOVE! Don't Go Breaking My Art!
Q: What finally allows Eros and Psyche to live happily ever after?
Zeus grants Psyche ambrosia to become a goddess, allowing her to be with Eros permanently.
The Object LOVE! Don't Go Breaking My Art!
Q: Why didn't Venus and Adonis last as a couple?
The audience answered that Adonis was often off hunting, which was correct.
That Got Weird: The Renaissance You Never Knew
Q: What is the Renaissance at first?
The Renaissance is described as a revival of the classical world focusing on beauty, idealism, and the rediscovery of antiquities.
The Object LIVE! Your Lobster is Ringing!
Q: How do you think about staying between the lines and the risks and rewards of choosing a lane?
Dessa discusses the balance between artistic expression and commercial endeavors, expressing her internal conflict about crossing genres and the implications for both artists and the art they create.
The Object LIVE! Your Lobster is Ringing!
Q: What gets you excited about surrealism?
Dessa shares her initial interest in Dalí and how surrealism is particularly resonant for young minds, referencing her own experiences with his art that impacted her perspective and creativity.

Audience Metrics

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Object

What is The Object about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This show brings art, history, and human stories to life through concise, well-crafted narratives about museum objects. Listeners repeatedly praise the host's warm, witty storytelling, deep context, and the way episodes connect artworks to broader cultural themes. Noteworthy are the approachable explanations of complex histories, frequent guest experts like curators and artists, and a format that blends education with entertaining, sometimes playful, elements that invite further museum exploration. The podcast is a strong fit for listeners who enjoy art history, behind-the-scenes museum stories, and cultural storytelling with tangible takeaways for visiting the museum or engaging with art in daily life.

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How many listeners does The Object get?

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What are the audience demographics for The Object?

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How many subscribers and views does The Object have?

To see how many followers or subscribers The Object has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.

Which podcasts are similar to The Object?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Object:

1. Sidedoor
2. NPR's Book of the Day
3. Fresh Air
4. The Splendid Table: Conversations & Recipes For Curious Cooks & Eaters
5. Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

How many episodes of The Object are there?

The Object launched 7 years ago and published 109 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact The Object?

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What guests have appeared on The Object?

Recent guests on The Object include:

1. Rachel McGarry
2. Jeremy Messersmith
3. Chan Poling
4. Lori Williamson
5. Lizzi Ginsberg
6. Joe Minter

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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