Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso

Wesley Morris, a culture critic for The New York Times and host of ‘The Wonder of Stevie,’ dives deep into the legacy of Stevie Wonder. He discusses Wonder's iconic five-album run from 1972-1976 and how his music reflects societal themes. Morris shares insights on the emotional impact of Wonder's work, recounting personal connections and cultural significance. The conversation also touches on Wonder's evolution from prodigy to revolutionary artist, and the challenges that shaped his journey within Motown's complex landscape.

Jason Reitman, the acclaimed writer-director behind hits like Juno and Up in the Air, shares insights on his new film Saturday Night, inspired by the legacy of Saturday Night Live. He delves into the influence of 1970s cinema and personal anecdotes about his father, the late Ivan Reitman. The conversation covers the evolution of his filmmaking, touching on his formative years and the impact of various filmmakers on his craft. Reitman closes with reflections on fatherhood and the joy that directing brings him.

Francis Ford Coppola, the legendary filmmaker behind classics like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, shares his ambitious journey in cinema. He reminisces about the long development of his modern epic, Megalopolis, and the artistic influences of Méliès and Tati. Coppola reflects on his childhood spirit and the evolution of his identity in filmmaking. The conversation touches on the risks he’s willing to take for his art, the importance of personal loss in his creative process, and his thoughts on America's future.

Joaquin Phoenix, one of the greatest actors of his generation, discusses his transformation in 'Joker: Folie à Deux' and the collaborative magic with director Todd Phillips. He reflects on his nomadic upbringing, childhood debut on 'Hill Street Blues,' and the brilliance of Robert De Niro. Phoenix candidly shares insights on his acting process, touches on the polarizing 'I’m Still Here,' and reveals his thoughts on delivering a 'great' performance. This rare conversation dives deep into authenticity, personal growth, and the emotional complexities of artistry.

Myha’la, an up-and-coming actor known for her role as Harper Stern in HBO's 'Industry', shares her journey from college to the spotlight. She discusses how her character's evolving hairstyles symbolize growth and empowerment, and dives into the complexities of ethical investing. Myha’la reflects on her experiences at Carnegie Mellon and her early days as a Christian rock band frontwoman. With insights on ambition and representation, she paints a hopeful vision of her artistic future while navigating the unique challenges of her generation.

Ken Leung, an accomplished actor known for his roles in hit films like Rush Hour and acclaimed shows such as Lost, explores his compelling character, Eric Tao, in HBO's Industry. He shares insightful reflections on navigating his Brooklyn upbringing as a son of Chinese immigrants and finding balance in his craft after personal loss. Leung also discusses Hollywood's evolving landscape regarding representation and his collaborative work with Myha’la. With a strong sense of peace in his current trajectory, he views each project as a spiritual journey.

In this lively conversation, journalist and film critic Sam, celebrating his 30th birthday, shares captivating stories from his early days in journalism and an Almost Famous-like teenage experience as a film critic. He reveals a life-changing email from the legendary Roger Ebert and discusses the evolution of his show during the pandemic. Abbi Jacobson reflects on their shared journeys, the weight of birthdays, and how vulnerability shapes their craft, highlighting the importance of connection through art and introspective conversations.

To start, Sam sits with another week in American life, before returning to our timely conversation with Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10). At the top, we discuss the five-year aftermath of the horrific shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida (10:29), his first two months in office as the first Gen-Z Congressman (12:10), and the legislature he’s fighting for to reduce gun violence (17:14). Then, we walk through his impassioned response to the Sandy Hook shooting (19:40), how it cemented his early commitment to politics (26:17), and embracing his Afro-Cuban identity as an adopted child (30:15). On the back half, Frost reflects on his road to Congress (37:58), the connection he shares with his biological mother (41:00), the blend of grassroots organizing and policy-making he leads with today (49:22), and the progress he hopes to see in the years to come (57:40). Original air date: February 26, 2023.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lee Daniels, a trailblazing filmmaker, shares his inspiring journey through Hollywood, including the fifteen-year path to his latest film, The Deliverance. He reflects on the therapeutic power of filmmaking, revealing how childhood trauma influenced his work. Daniels discusses his pivotal experiences as a casting director in the 80s and the emotional complexities behind acclaimed films like Precious. He also touches on representation in the industry and what drives his relentless creativity as he continues to uplift Black talent.

Steven Soderbergh, a legendary filmmaker known for his groundbreaking work since 1989, shares insights into his creative process for 'No Sudden Move' during the pandemic. He discusses overcoming creative blocks and the profound influence of mentor Mike Nichols. Soderbergh reflects on how early moviegoing experiences shaped his view of storytelling. He also candidly addresses the future of cinema and his evolving role within it, highlighting the delicate balance between artistic integrity and audience expectations.