
Vulnerable Podcast
Everyone thinks Christy Carlson Romano had a storybook career. That she just sprang into Disney Channel stardom overnight, made millions, and lived happily after. Spoiler alert, she didn’t! There were countless failures along the way and there still are. The Vulnerable Podcast is an invitation to hang out every week with Christy as she invites friends, celebrities, and experts for in-depth conversations discussing the good, the complicated, the beauty of being human, and what it means to be vulnerable. Join Christy every Tuesday as we navigate the ups and downs of her guests’ paths to success.For advertising opportunities please email: michaela@podco.us
Latest episodes

Aug 15, 2023 • 53min
Vulnerable EP73: Disney Star Isaak Presley on Death, Jail, and Addiction
Today on Vulnerable, I am joined by the wonderfully talented Isaak Presley! Isaak is best known for his roles in Fuller House and the Disney Channel series Stuck in the Middle opposite Jenna Ortega. He is continuing to pursue many things in the arts, including a successful music career. Isaak opens up about his experience navigating the industry as a child actor, why he made the decision to get sober, and how getting arrested changed his life.
Who had drama on the set of Stuck in the Middle? How young was he when he was exposed to drugs and alcohol? What does he wish Disney had told him? Tune in to this honest and open episode.
You can follow Isaak @IsaakPresley on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Disclaimer: This content was produced prior to the recent SAG-AFTRA strike authorization.
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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 8, 2023 • 25min
Vulnerable EP72: Is Barbie really a Feminist Icon?
Today on Vulnerable, I’m sharing a Millennial Moment where I take a look at the effects of brands like Barbie, Victoria’s Secret, and Abercrombie & Fitch. What do these brands have in common? They have lived through Y2K and have now completely rebranded to become a better, less problematic version of themselves.
Is Barbie REALLY a feminist icon? How did Victoria’s Secret affect young millennial women? Did Abercrombie’s photographer prey on young models? Tune in now to find out.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 1, 2023 • 30min
Vulnerable EP71: Boy Meets World's Maitland Ward on How Adult Entertainment Liberated Her From Hollywood
Today on Vulnerable, I have the opportunity to connect with the amazing Maitland Ward! Maitland is an actress and adult film star, best known for her role as Rachel McGuire in Boy Meets World. Maitland is open and honest about her career shift from traditional Hollywood to adult entertainment. She talks about how she got into the industry, relationships with her old Boy Meets World stars, and how her new career has ultimately liberated her from Hollywood.
When was Maitland Google’s top trending search? What does she think about Disney today? How did Christy try to shed her Disney image?
You can follow Maitland @maitlandward on Instagram and Twitter.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Disclaimer: This content was produced prior to the recent SAG-AFTRA strike authorization.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 25, 2023 • 43min
Vulnerable EP70: Even Stevens’ Lauren Frost on Teenage Heartbreaks and Overcoming the Pressures of Child Acting
Today on Vulnerable, I’m joined by Ren Stevens’ very own bestie, and one of my favorite people, Lauren Frost! Lauren is an actor and stylist best known for her role as Ruby Mendel in Even Stevens as well as her portrayal of Young Barbra in Barbra Streisand’s Timeless Tour.
Lauren and I chat about our time growing up together on Even Stevens and the highs and lows of our friendship. We talk about our teenage relationships and heartbreaks, Lauren’s Hollywood journey after Even Stevens, and her current passion for mental health awareness and education. I also share an exclusive story about our co-star Nick Spano (Donnie Stevens) and his unbelievable run in with Megan Fox.
What does Lauren really think of Barbra Streisand? Why didn’t Lauren’s Disney pilot show take off? Tune in now!
You can follow Lauren on Instagram @laurenfrost and TikTok @laurenfrostok.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 18, 2023 • 42min
Vulnerable EP69: Social Media Star Trisha Paytas on the Highs and Lows of Life as a Content Creator
Today on Vulnerable, I get to chat with the one and only Trisha Paytas! Trisha is a social media superstar, and one of the very first content creators on YouTube. Through her authentic content, she now has over 5 million subscribers on YouTube and over 8 million followers on TikTok.
Trisha talks ALL about the ups and downs of her life as a content creator. She opens up about the controversy she’s endured, dangerous online encounters and threats, and the absolute joys of becoming a mother to a beautiful baby girl. She also reveals a documentary she made to take down internet trolls.
Who did Trisha post audition tapes for on Myspace? Is she going to start a sexy podcast? Tune in to find out!
You can follow Trisha on TikTok @trishlikefish88, Instagram @trishapaytasbackup, Twitter @trishapaytas, and subscribe to her YouTube channel @blndsundoll4mj and her ASMR YouTube channel @TrishaPaytasASMR.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 11, 2023 • 51min
Vulnerable EP68: Lizzie McGuire’s Clayton Snyder on Being the Ultimate Teen Heartthrob
Today on Vulnerable, I get to chat with Clayton Snyder! Clayton stole the hearts of many as the teen heartthrob Ethan Craft on Lizzie McGuire. He continues to act to this day while also working as a successful realtor AND water poloist.
Clayton shares what it was like growing up on Disney Channel while trying to live a normal, teenage life. He talks about his water polo career, his Lizzie McGuire audition, and why he stepped away from acting after filming the Lizzie McGuire Movie.
Did Clayton bring Hilary Duff to his school dance? What was one of his favorite Lizzie McGuire stunts? Tune in now!
You can follow Clayton @heyclayton on Instagram.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jul 4, 2023 • 39min
Vulnerable EP67: Desperate Housewives' Madison De La Garza on Growing Up in the Industry
Today on Vulnerable, I’m joined by the talented writer, director, and actress, Madison De La Garza! Madison is best known for her role as Juanita Solis on Desperate Housewives.
Madison talks about her journey to Hollywood as a child and what it was like growing up in the industry on one of the most famous TV sets. She also shares her current passions, including directing, teaching, and raising awareness for incredibly talented TikTok actors.
What Desperate Housewives scene traumatized Madison? What is it like working with Eva Longoria? Why does Madison want to become an elementary school teacher? Join us now!
You can follow on Instagram @maddelagarza, TikTok @madidelagarza, and Twitter @MadDeLaGarza, subscribe to her YouTube channel @MadisonDeLaGarza, and visit her website Madisondelagarza.net.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jun 27, 2023 • 48min
Vulnerable EP66: Lizzie McGuire's Davida Williams on Working With Hilary Duff and Life After Disney
Today on Vulnerable, I have the opportunity to connect with Lizzie McGuire’s very own Davida Williams! Davida is an actress best known for her roles as “Claire Miller” in Lizzie McGuire and “Taylor Morrison” in Hallmark’s Game, Set, Love.
Davida opens up about the challenges of life as a child actor and the comfort she felt on the set of Lizzie McGuire. She also shares the shocking initial plot of the Jonas Brothers’ Disney TV show, ABC’s failed attempt to make Lizzie McGuire into a high school show, and what it was like working with Hilary Duff.
What were Davida’s original plans after Lizzie McGuire? What terrible Hollywood experience did she go through? What is Club One Seven? Tune in to find out!
You can follow Davida on Instagram and Twitter @DavidaBWilliams, and TikTok @DavidaWilliams4. Tune into her new podcast with Jake Thomas, “Living Lizzie - A Very McGuire Podcast,” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jun 20, 2023 • 38min
Vulnerable EP65: TikTok Star Peet Montzingo on Turning Weaknesses to Strengths and His Family of Little People
Today on Vulnerable, I get to chat with TikTok and YouTube star, Peet Montzingo! Peet is best known for his TikTok content about the ominous Hotel Cecil, as well as his beloved videos with his mom and family.
Peet opens up about his unique childhood as the only above average height person in a family of little people. He describes the challenges and joys of growing up with a different family experience, and the meaning of his new book, “Little Imperfections: A Tall Tale of Growing Up Different.” He also shares his craziest Hotel Cecil sightings and the controversies that surround the hotel.
How many boy bands was Peet in? Why is he banned from going inside Hotel Cecil? Would he ever film a reality TV show with his family? Join us now!
You can follow Peet @peetmontzingo on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, and subscribe to his YouTube @PeetMontzingo. You can purchase his book, “Little Imperfections: A Tall Tale of Growing Up Different,” here.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jun 13, 2023 • 54min
Vulnerable EP64: Former Child Star Mara Wilson on Breaking Free of Her Good Girl Past
Today on Vulnerable, my dear friend Mara Wilson is back, and it’s such a joy to talk with her again. You might know Mara from her iconic childhood roles in Matilda and Mrs. Doubtfire. She’s also an NYU graduate, accomplished writer, and child actor rights advocate.
Mara opens up about what it was like to step back from a successful acting career, her unique experience as a student at NYU, and how often fame is misunderstood. She also talks about the healing and hardships that came along with writing her new memoir, “Good Girls Don’t.”
What other child actor went to NYU with Mara? Why did Mara think she’d never be in front of a camera again? Tune in now!
You can follow Mara @marawilson on Instagram, and Twitter. You can listen to her new book, “Good Girls Don’t,” here.
Follow me, Christy Carlson Romano on Instagram @thechristycarlsonromano and TikTok @christcarlsonromano, subscribe to my YouTube channel, and follow Brendan Rooney on Instagram @thebrendanrooney and TikTok @brendanrooney.
Be sure to follow Vulnerable @thevulnerablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok. You can watch the video version on my YouTube channel.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.