In commemoration of Independence Day, Tell Me More offers a variety of conversations about the meaning of freedom. From celebrated authors to a single mother rebuilding her life after years in jail, the program asks, what does freedom mean? Host Michel Martin speaks with Chilean-American author Ariel Dorfman. Dorfman explains the value of freedom after having lived under the regime of former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. ()  

Musa Saidykhan had been a reporter in his home country of Gambia for more than a decade when he was arrested and later tortured by government officials. Following Saidykhan's imprisonment, he fled the country with his family and now lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Saidykhan explains how he will commemorate freedom on this, his first, Independence Day in the U.S. ()  

Independence Day means different things to different people. One month ago, Sedrena Finley exited the gates of the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women after serving a five year sentence. Finley tells host Michel Martin how it feels to no longer live behind bars and what it means to spend time with her children. ()  

The "Tell Me More" audience mourns the death of pop superstar Michael Jackson, who died suddenly last week at the age of 50. Host Michel Martin and digital media producer Lee Hill highlight a few listeners' favorite Michael Jackson hits and why the songs — and the King of Pop — will remain in their hearts forever. In contrast, one man tells why he thinks too much is being done to commemorate Jackson. ()  

Few American desserts are as testy and classic as cherry pie. Chef Vickie Reh, of the Buck's Fishing and Camping restaurant in Washington, D.C., explains how to make a cherry pie that will never disappoint. ()  

After filling their bellies this Fourth of July weekend with barbecue and dessert, some will offer a toast to American Freedom with a cocktail. Host Michel Martin pays a visit to drinks historian Derek Brown at Washington, D.C.'s Gibson Lounge. The expert bartender offers advice on sipping the right cocktail at the right time. ()