That’s How I Remember It is a podcast that examines the connection between memory and creativity. Each episode will feature a discussion between Craig Finn and one creator — a musician, author, filmmaker, etc. — about the role that memory plays in their art. These conversations will reveal the different ways each creator synthesizes their remembered life experiences to tell stories about themselves and the world we live in. This podcast is not a nostalgia trip, but rather an exciting conversation about storytelling, process, and the desire to create art that reflects the world the artist has experienced. That’s How I Remember It is co-produced and distributed by Talkhouse.
Willy Vlautin is my guest on the first That’s How I Remember It episode of 2025. Willy is an amazing songwriter and novelist. He’s published seven incredible novels, most recently 2024’s The Horse. After leading the band Richmond Fontaine for years, he moved over to a pure songwriting role in The Delines, who are releasing a great record Mr. Luck & Ms. Doom next month. We talked about that as well as the effect of anxiety on memory, Steinbeck, William Kennedy, TV/Film adaptations of his work, and so much more. Willys is a friend and also a complete inspiration. I was so happy to go deep with him here. Listen and subscribe.