Tommy Caldwell tells Alexi about his friendship with Alex Honnold. Tommy and Alexi talk about the transformative power of challenging situations. They reflect on spending time alone, the importance of trust and partnership in climbing, how we change before we realize it, and other things.

In Mentor Buffet’s fourth episode, Alexi and Melissa Villaseñor talk about what it’s like to achieve your biggest dream—and then what happens next. Melissa always wanted to be on SNL. And then she made it happen. And after six years as part of the cast she left the show. Melissa tells Alexi the advice she got from her mentors, the comics Whitney Cummings, Maria Bamford, and Bill Burr. The girls also talk about instant fame, making yourself laugh, and building confidence. Subscribe to Mentor Buffet for a new episode every Thursday, anywhere you listen to podcasts. 

Diplo, a renowned music producer and DJ, shares how a transformative trip to India at 19 shaped his independent spirit and discipline, crucial for his career. He recalls his experiences with running the LA marathon, highlighting the importance of camaraderie in physical pursuits. The conversation explores the joys and challenges of running, emphasizing its emotional benefits and community-building aspects. Diplo also discusses how embracing change has led to personal growth, showcasing the balance between discipline and spontaneity in life.

Zach Braff, renowned for his role in Scrubs, and Bill Lawrence, the mastermind behind shows like Ted Lasso, share their inspiring mentorship journey. They delve into the significance of authenticity and gratitude in creative careers. Zach opens up about the lessons learned while making Garden State and the pivotal role Bill played in his breakthrough. The duo also humorously discusses navigating auditions and building self-belief with the help of supportive communities, all while emphasizing the value of genuine connections.

Rainn Wilson, renowned for playing Dwight Schrute on The Office, shares insights from his acting journey shaped by influential mentors from NYU. He reflects on Zelda Fichandler's impact on his view of acting, Paul Walker’s lesson of self-assurance, and Ron Van Lieu's guidance in overcoming personal barriers. The conversation dives into resilience, the importance of serving others, and strategies for staying true to oneself. Rainn's inspiring anecdotes highlight the invaluable role of mentorship in nurturing creative talent.

Alexi Pappas, an Olympian, filmmaker, actress, and bestselling author, dives into the transformative power of mentorship. She shares her personal journey shaped by the loss of her mother, highlighting how seeking guidance has propelled her success. Alexi emphasizes the invaluable role mentors play in achieving personal growth and overcoming life’s challenges. Listeners can expect heartfelt stories from inspirational guests across various fields, exploring the connections that have helped them on their paths.