Design Matters with Debbie Millman Pride 2025 with Carol Leifer, Sonya Passi, Paul Tazewell, Leisha Hailey, and Kate Moennig
Jun 30, 2025
In this Pride Month special, guests Carol Leifer, a trailblazing comedian, Paul Tazewell, an award-winning costume designer, and Sonya Passi, a dedicated activist, share their incredible journeys. Leifer reflects on the influence of family in her comedy roots, while Tazewell discusses his creative evolution and the challenges faced as a Black man in the arts. Passi highlights her fight against gender-based violence, emphasizing community engagement and the urgent need for change. The conversation celebrates resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Sonya Passi's Defining Moment
- Sonya Passi realized at 16 that fighting global violence against women was her life's work.
- She established domestic violence awareness campaigns in high school and Cambridge, focusing on human rights.
Paul Tazewell's Theater Start
- Paul Tazewell played the title role in his first high school play, The Wiz.
- His family supported his creative interests by helping with costumes and artistic projects at home.
Paul Tazewell's Career Pivot
- Paul Tazewell initially aimed for a performance career but shifted to costume design due to realistic opportunities.
- He chose costume design for longer career prospects within theater and acting industries.