Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso

Jesse Eisenberg, acclaimed actor and director known for his roles in The Social Network and A Real Pain, dives deep into his creative journey. He shares insights about crafting A Real Pain and reflects on his childhood experiences in East Brunswick. Eisenberg talks about his early love for writing humor and transformative roles that shaped his career. With humor and honesty, he explores themes of anxiety in his work, the emotional weight of storytelling, and the importance of connecting with family history.

RaMell Ross, an award-winning director known for his film ‘Nickel Boys’, shares his unique approach to storytelling shaped by his upbringing in Virginia and experiences as a Georgetown basketball player. He discusses the role of naivete in filmmaking, the complexities of race in photography, and aims to portray the American South in new and authentic ways. Ross emphasizes the need for deeper explorations of Black identity in cinema, asserting that ‘Nickel Boys’ is just the beginning of a transformative journey in Black cinematic history.

Bill Hader, known for his iconic work on SNL, reflects on the hilarious yet chaotic nature of live comedy. Julia Louis-Dreyfus shares her journey navigating ambition on the show and the joy found in collaboration. Jason Reitman discusses the pressures of comedy within a legacy, drawing on personal experiences in filmmaking. The trio dives into behind-the-scenes stories, memorable sketches, and how SNL has shaped their careers, celebrating its 50-year legacy with humor and heartfelt insights.

Chris Hayes, a prominent journalist and MSNBC host known for his keen political insights, discusses the challenges of modern media and attention. He unpacks America's constitutional crises and the commodification of attention in the digital age. Hayes shares his experiences with dwindling viewership amid cord-cutting and highlights the struggle for authenticity in a performative industry. He reflects on engaging a divided audience and draws parallels between historical labor exploitation and today's attention capitalism, urging listeners to reclaim focus in a distracted world.

Mikey Madison, an acclaimed actor known for her work in Better Things and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, discusses her Oscar-nominated performance in Anora. She dives into her collaboration with director Sean Baker and the emotional preparation required for such a vulnerable role. Mikey reflects on her San Fernando Valley roots and the influence of sex professionals on her craft. She also shares insights about navigating intimacy on set and hopes for her future in the industry.

Steven Yeun, acclaimed for roles in The Walking Dead and Minari, shares his journey as a first-generation immigrant. He discusses the emotional depth in his hit series Beef, touching on themes of resentment and self-acceptance. Yeun reminisces about his coming-of-age in Michigan and his bold audition for The Second City. Reflecting on his iconic role as Glenn, he reveals a transformative moment in his performance. He also dives into the significance of his work in Minari, culminating with a guiding poem by Wendell Berry.

Kyle MacLachlan and Laura Dern, renowned actors and celebrated collaborators of David Lynch, share fond memories and deep reflections on their time working with the legendary filmmaker. They discuss the creative challenges of films like Dune and Blue Velvet, emphasizing Lynch's unique approach and his ability to explore life's mysteries. Their heartfelt anecdotes illustrate the profound impact Lynch had on their careers and artistic identities, culminating in a tribute to his lasting legacy in the world of cinema.

Emily Witt, a staff writer at The New Yorker, has been on the front lines of the Los Angeles wildfires, delving into the stories of families like the Benns, who have lived in Altadena for generations. She discusses the emotional toll of the Eaton fire and the vital role of community in times of crisis. Witt reflects on her interview with Mayor Karen Bass and the work of author Octavia Butler, emphasizing the significance of on-the-ground reporting. Their conversation sheds light on Los Angeles's future while honoring the resilience of those affected.

Richard Powers, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for his evocative novels like "The Overstory", dives deep into climate change and the power of nature. He explores the eco-trauma present in his works and redefines hope in today's world. Powers discusses capitalism's ecological shortcomings and how the pandemic shifted societal perspectives on the environment. He shares insights on the importance of solitude for creativity and reflects on the emotional depth of his characters, ultimately blending analytical thought with profound human experience.

Join Jia Tolentino, a staff writer at The New Yorker and bestselling author of *Trick Mirror*, as she dives deep into the complexities of our digital age. She explores the erosion of online privacy, the potential TikTok ban, and her experiment with self-surveillance during her hidden pregnancy. Tolentino reflects on how data is monetized, the unsettling realities of screen time on children, and shares her experiences growing up in Houston. The conversation swings between optimism and pessimism, ultimately celebrating the liberating power of writing.