Television writer Cord Jefferson has written for the kind of shows that crack hearts open. From The Good Place to Watchmen, Station Eleven to Master of None, Cord has spent his career wrangling human emotions in the writers’ room – but also in his own life. In this episode, Cord speaks about the connection between his personal life and his creative work, how he thinks about vulnerability in making art and why he thanked his therapist in his acceptance speech for his first Emmy. For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cord Jefferson, director of 'American Fiction', joins Sean to discuss the challenges of directing a film as a writer and the movie's remarkable cast. They also talk about the state of family dramas and satires, and Cord shares his future projects. Sean and Amanda start the show by sharing their top 5 movie scenes of 2023, and later discuss 'American Fiction' as a refreshing mix of genres.

Bill Simmons wonders if the Golden State Warriors are done after their recent struggles. Nora Princiotti joins to discuss Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift, as well as Bill Belichick's future. Cord Jefferson talks about his film 'American Fiction' and pitches an 'Entourage' reboot. Million-Dollar Picks are made for NFL Week 15.

Grammy-winning rapper Killer Mike discusses his album 'Michael,' spirituality in music, and activism in communities. Writer Cord Jefferson talks about his film 'American Fiction,' challenging biases in Hollywood, and the power of uncomfortable art.

Host Jeff Goldsmith interviews Oscar-nominated screenwriters about their creative processes and challenges. Topics include reigniting creative spark, cinematic education, character growth in storytelling, procrastination, cleanliness struggles, vulnerability, and personal touches in scriptwriting.

Reinaldo Marcus Green talks about portraying Bob Marley, Cord Jefferson discusses his Oscar-nominated film 'American Fiction,' and Daniel Dae Kim shares 'The Treat.' Topics include Bob Marley's transformative journey, challenges in portraying complex black characters in Hollywood, and embracing Asian identity in the arts.

Cord Jefferson, writer and director of the Academy Award-nominated film, discusses expanding limited ideas of Black stories in Hollywood. Topics include the need for gun control following the Kansas City Chiefs parade shooting, concerns about the trial of Donald Trump, romantic relationships of US presidents, and the impact of Cord Jefferson's film on Black filmmakers and a primarily white audience.

Cord Jefferson, writer and director of the Oscar-nominated film American Fiction, discusses the themes of race and family dynamics in the movie. They also talk about turning Percival Everett's book Erasure into a screenplay, the significance of family dynamics in the film, challenges faced on set, and the power of humor in art.

Cord Jefferson, acclaimed writer and director of 'American Fiction,' shares insights on adapting Percival Everett's novel into a poignant film. He discusses the delicate balance of critiquing media representation while exploring profound themes of grief and identity. Cord reflects on the pressures of portraying Black narratives authentically, emphasizing the importance of creative integrity. He also delves into the film's evolution, from its humorous title to a deeper commentary on American culture, and the significance of representation in the industry.

Cord Jefferson, Percival Everett, and Jeffrey Wright discuss the subversive brilliance of their Oscar contender film, American Fiction, adapted from Everett's novel. The hosts analyze the film's exploration of race, family dynamics, and generational wealth. They also delve into the satirical elements and nuanced expectations portrayed by Tracy Ellis Ross. Additionally, the podcast touches on the depiction of homelessness in media, critiques NPR's style, and explores the Oscars' impact on opening doors for unknown talent. Finally, the hosts share their music endorsements - the albums "Chameleon" by Labelle and "Midnight Dancer" by Silk.