On today’s show: we’ll look at Margaret Thatcher’s early life, her early political career, and her first years as Britain’s only female prime minister. Celebrated travel writer Paul Theroux describes returning to Africa after 50 years of traveling around the world. The star and director discuss Israeli film “Fill the Void,” which follows a young Orthodox Hasidic woman who is preparing to marry when tragedy strikes. And we’ll take a look at how Apple is just one of many corporations trying to avoid paying corporate taxes by moving its money out of the United States.

Restaurateur Danny Meyer was on the Lopate Show's Food Fridays series recently to talk about the food that chefs cook for each other for the family meals at each of his restaurants. He also told us what toppings he puts on his favorite pizza.

There's an article in today's New York Times about anger over bear bile farming in China and the growing animal rights movement in that country. Bear bile is an ingredient in some Chinese medicine, and the methods for collecting it from bears held in captive is seen by many as animal cruelty. Listen to Leonard's 2012 interview with Jill Robinson, founder and CEO of Animals Asia, discussing bear bile farming and bear rescue efforts and the documentary "Cages of Shame."

George Packer discusses the social, political and economic upheaval the United States has experienced over the past generation. And Alex Gibney talks about his documentary “We Steal Secrets: the story of Wikileaks.”

On today’s show, New Yorker staff writer Peter Hessler talks about his time reporting in China and in the West. And Noah Feldman explains why he thinks the United States is entering a Cool War with China—a contest for alliances, resources, and economic dominance. 

David Sedaris was on the Lopate Show to talk about his latest book, Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls. He shared a few of the books he's been enjoying lately.

David Sedaris talks about writing about his family, living abroad, cleaning up roadside rubbish, and keeping a diary. Paul Farmer, co-founder of Partners In Health, talks about healthcare and social justice.

David Sedaris has been a guest on the Leonard Lopate Show many, many times. Here’s all the Sedaris you can possibly handle (with a few bonus interviews with David’s sister, Amy.)

4 to 6 servings

Asparagus usually makes its first appearance at the Union Square Greenmarket in late April, at which point Danny Meyer’s family embarks on an almost nightly celebration until the season ends about two months later. This simple asparagus gratin is a favorite in the Meyer household—it goes well with everything, especially grilled veal chops, salmon, chicken, or steak.

6 servings

This silky vanilla-flavored Italian custard, which uses buttermilk for a slightly tangy flavor, is the perfect companion to a sweet and tart rhubarb and strawberry compote. The compote, in turn, is excellent as well with yogurt or ice cream.

Cristina Nastasi, a pastry cook at the Museum of Modern Art cafes, came up with the combination because there was plenty of rhubarb on hand and she had a free moment. For someone who’s been baking ever since she can remember and whose e-mail moniker includes the word “sugar,” making a new dessert is more fun than taking a break.