David Greene Launches “David Greene Is Obsessed” Podcast | Exploring the Passions That Define Us
From the sound of NPR’s Morning Edition to the world of podcasting, David Greene is back — and this time, he’s taking listeners on a fascinating journey through the quirks, passions, and fixations that define who we are. His latest project, “David Greene Is Obsessed,” is more than just another podcast — it’s a deep dive into the human condition, exploring why people become utterly fascinated by certain ideas, objects, hobbies, and rituals.
Set to launch on November 13, 2025, the series promises to blend humor, curiosity, and heart in equal measure, offering a refreshing look at what it means to be truly obsessed.
Every week, Greene explores a different obsession — from the light-hearted to the life-changing — and uncovers how these fixations shape creativity, identity, and purpose.
In Greene’s own words:
“We all have something we’re obsessed with. Maybe it’s a sports team, a song, a ritual, or even a story from childhood. Obsession is part of being human — and I want to understand what drives that energy.”
Why the Title Works
The name itself, David Greene Is Obsessed, reflects not only his guests’ fascinations but Greene’s own journalistic curiosity. His tone is probing but empathetic, allowing conversations to move beyond surface-level anecdotes and into the psychology of passion.
🧠 Exploring the Human Obsession Spectrum
From Football Fandom to Barbie Collections
The series’ lineup of early guests reads like a diverse celebration of human uniqueness. Each episode highlights a distinct kind of obsession — one that might make you laugh, cry, or rethink your own fixations.
Among the featured guests:
Chef Michael Symon shares his unwavering devotion to the Cleveland Browns, exploring how sports loyalty connects generations and communities.
Actor David Arquette discusses his decision to buy the rights to Bozo the Clown, a move that bridges nostalgia with reinvention.
Singaporean collector Jian Yang reveals how his Barbie collection — one of the largest in the world — intersects with identity, representation, and self-expression.
These stories are not just curiosities — they’re mirrors of our collective need to find meaning in the things we love.
🌎 Obsessions that Connect Us All
When Obsession Becomes Inspiration
Each episode unpacks how obsession can inspire creativity and purpose. Greene guides his listeners through stories that highlight the power of focus and dedication. His interview with comedian Tig Notaro, for example, explores her decision to give up meat — not as a dietary trend, but as a personal mission rooted in ethics and emotion.
Other notable conversations include:
Elias Weiss Friedman, better known as The Dogist, who speaks about photographing thousands of dogs and the emotional connection behind his lens.
Rosie Grant, a librarian who travels the world visiting cemeteries to find recipes carved on gravestones, turning a niche curiosity into an inspiring quest for remembrance.
Through these encounters, Greene finds a universal truth: our obsessions tell the story of who we are.
🎧 The Lineup: A Celebration of Quirks and Passions
The podcast also features a fascinating mix of voices — from pop culture icons to everyday enthusiasts — each revealing something deeply human about their pursuits.
Among the upcoming guests:
Maury Povich – reflecting on his decades-long fascination with storytelling and truth-seeking.
Paula Poundstone – bringing humor to her love of trivia and the oddities of modern life.
Mark Malkoff – discussing his obsession with documenting extreme challenges and New York living.
Billy Corgan – the Smashing Pumpkins frontman shares his passion for wrestling, creativity, and control.
Stefan Fatsis – known for his obsession with Scrabble and sports journalism.
Every episode feels like a journey — not just through one person’s world, but through the collective human experience of being driven by passion.
🏆 David Greene: The Voice Behind the Mic
From NPR to the Podcast Universe
David Greene’s voice is one of the most recognizable in American broadcasting. As a former co-host of NPR’s Morning Edition, he spent years telling stories that connected audiences to the world’s most pressing issues.
Now, he’s turning his focus inward — toward the stories that make us laugh, wonder, and reflect on our shared humanity.
Currently based in Los Angeles, Greene continues to expand his creative footprint as host of other acclaimed shows like “Left, Right & Center” and “Sports in America.”
A Career Defined by Curiosity
Greene’s career is a testament to curiosity. From covering the Arab Spring to exploring American identity through sports, he has always been drawn to stories that illuminate what it means to live, strive, and care deeply.
His new podcast continues that tradition — but in a more intimate, conversational format that invites listeners to join him on the journey.
💬 What Makes “David Greene Is Obsessed” Stand Out
1. A Blend of Humor and Humanity
The podcast manages to balance serious reflection with genuine humor. Greene’s style is disarming, allowing guests to speak freely about their fixations without judgment.
2. A Celebration of the Everyday
Not all obsessions are extraordinary — and that’s what makes them powerful. From collectors to cooks to comedians, Greene highlights how the mundane becomes meaningful when seen through the lens of passion.
3. Authentic Storytelling
With years of radio experience, Greene understands pacing, tone, and narrative arcs — making each episode feel both polished and deeply personal.
🔍 The Psychology Behind Obsession
Why Are Humans Wired to Fixate?
Psychologists say that obsession often arises from a deep emotional need — whether it’s comfort, control, or connection. In exploring these stories, Greene sheds light on how obsession can become a form of identity — a way to anchor ourselves in a chaotic world.
Key insights explored in the show:
Obsession as creativity: Channeling passion into art or innovation.
Obsession as coping: Finding structure and meaning in routine.
Obsession as connection: Building community around shared fascinations.
🌐 Available Everywhere You Listen
“David Greene Is Obsessed” officially launches on Thursday, November 13, 2025, and will be available on all major podcast platforms, including:
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Amazon Music
BBC Sounds
Google Podcasts
New episodes will be released weekly, giving listeners a regular dose of curiosity, humor, and heartfelt storytelling.
🪞 Final Thoughts: What Our Obsessions Reveal About Us
In a world overloaded with distractions, Greene’s new series reminds us that obsession — in its healthiest form — is a celebration of focus, care, and identity. Whether it’s the way a chef loves his hometown team or how a librarian chases recipes in cemeteries, these stories reveal the same truth: to be obsessed is to be alive.
So, if you’ve ever found yourself fixated on something seemingly strange or small — this podcast will make you feel seen, understood, and maybe even inspired.
