Shelf Life

David Zinczenko, editor-in-chief of Men's Health, talks with Kai Ryssdal about his new book, "Drink This, Not That!," and why beverages were made so fatty in the first place.

Boston College Professor Ray Madoff talks with Kai Ryssdal about her new book "Immortality and Law," and why dead doesn't really mean dead anymore -- financially speaking -- because states have started extending to some of the dead permanent control over their trusts and estates.

Author Adam Nicolson grew up in Sissinghurst Castle, a popular tourist destination in England. He talks with Kai Ryssdal about his new book, "Sissinghurst, An Unfinished History," and his quest to restore a farm at his family home.

Author Patricia Morrisroe talks with Kai Ryssdal about her new book, "Wide Awake: A Memoir of Insomnia," whether we're sleeping less than we were 50 years ago, and when America's major sleep problem began.

Writer and columnist Meghan Daum says she is a real estate addict. She talks with Kai Ryssdal about her new book, "Life Would Be Perfect if I Lived in that House," and her search for a home in L.A.

Social critic Andrew Potter talks with Tess Vigeland about his new book "The Authenticity Hoax," and calls into question why people shop organic, buy distressed jeans and make their own compost.

BBC sports commentator Matthew Syed talks with Tess Vigeland about his new book "Bounce," and what lies behind success and excellence in sports and other endeavors.

Author Josh Axelrad talks with Kai Ryssdal about his book "Repeat Until Rich," how he ended up as a professional blackjack player, and how card counting works.

The Democrats' push to overhaul the financial regulatory system could hit the Senate next week. But can Congress prevent another Wall Street bailout? Bill Radke talks to Roger Lowenstein, author of "The End of Wall Street."