What Now? with Trevor Noah

Roger Federer, tennis legend and recently retired champion, joins Trevor Noah for a heartfelt chat. They discuss the emotional journey of retirement and the inspiration behind his documentary, capturing the last twelve days of his career. Their conversation also dives into the importance of friendship, as well as a charity match in South Africa that Federer surprisingly won. Both share insights on navigating life's transitions and the joy of rediscovering themselves beyond the tennis courts.

Trevor Noah is joined by Anele Mdoda, a vibrant South African media personality, and Khaya Dlanga, a thought-provoking author and journalist. Together, they explore the fascinating cultural contrasts of Japan, from innovative toilets to the delicious quirks of local cuisine. Their witty banter addresses the balance between tradition and modernity, personal identity, and societal norms. They also dive into the complexities of intimacy across cultures, revealing how experiences in Japan challenge their perceptions and beliefs.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus, the acclaimed actress known for her work in Seinfeld and Veep, chats with Trevor about her new film, Tuesday, where she humorously confronts themes of grief and mortality. They share personal stories of loss, exploring how comedy can provide solace in difficult times. The duo also discusses the importance of drivers’ education for politicians and the evolving landscape of comedy, emphasizing authenticity and the emotional weight of storytelling. It's a poignant yet funny reflection on life and laughter.

Jessica Alba, an actress and founder of The Honest Company, opens up about the misogyny she faced while launching her brand and how she rediscovered her identity over the years. She shares insights on the challenge of merging motherhood with entrepreneurship and reflects on the emotional toll of her journey. The discussion takes a humorous turn as she debates the merits of being killed with a knife versus a gun on set. Alba's reflections on parenting, social justice, and the importance of self-worth add depth to her inspiring narrative.

Jerrod Carmichael, a comedian, actor, and writer known for his bold and candid style, dives into the messy complexities of love and identity. He discusses his reality series, where he embraces the cringe of human experiences, including a shocking moment that involves toe-sucking. Topics like navigating open relationships, family acceptance, and the balance between authenticity and public persona are explored. With humor and vulnerability, Jerrod opens up about societal expectations and the importance of emotional transparency in relationships.

Christiana Mbakwe Medina, a writer and journalist known for her engaging discussions, and Ben Winston, an executive producer and Trevor's friend, join the conversation. They humorously debate the impact of social media and propose a ban, reflecting on its dual nature of connection and loneliness. Christiana suggests Bill Gates should run bake sales, while Ben advocates for a mandatory day of rest. The trio shares personal stories, tackling themes of community, empathy, and the importance of family time amidst today's fast-paced world.

Trevor Noah chats with Brad Smith, Vice Chairman and President of Microsoft, who shares his optimistic view on AI's future. They discuss the moral implications of technology, likening AI to past innovations like electricity. Smith emphasizes the need for leadership in building trust for global AI investments and addresses the ethical challenges faced by tech giants. The conversation also touches on the dual-edged role of social media in shaping opinions and the proactive measures necessary to combat AI misuse, highlighting its potential to enhance human creativity.

New Yorker writer and cultural critic Jia Tolentino joins to discuss the media frenzy around weight loss drug Ozempic, exploring societal pressures, gender norms, and the cultural obsession with thinness. The podcast challenges societal messaging on body image and advocates for prioritizing well-being over appearance.

Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, a stand-up comedian famous for his relatable humor, shares his journey from struggling performer to comedy superstar. He reflects on their serendipitous meeting that sparked a lasting friendship and the significance of mentorship in comedy. Their hilarious misadventures, including a border mix-up in search of a Foot Locker, offer a glimpse into the chaotic but rewarding world of touring. Fluffy emphasizes authenticity and personal growth, advocating for open discussions about emotions and the healing power of community.

Rhaina Cohen, author of The Other Significant Others, joins for a lively discussion about redefining relationships. She advocates for the importance of platonic friendships, arguing they deserve as much recognition as romantic partnerships. The conversation touches on the benefits of living close to friends and emphasizes community over individualism. Rhaina shares personal stories about navigating the complexities of friendships, including handling breakups and the influence of romantic partners on existing bonds, promoting a broader understanding of love.