Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso

Join actor Harris Dickinson, known for his roles in 'Beach Rats' and 'Triangle of Sadness,' as he discusses his latest film, 'Babygirl.' He shares his experiences working with Nicole Kidman and unpacks the exploration of masculinity in his roles. Harris reflects on his upbringing in England, his formative years, and his journey from hotel work to pursuing acting. He delves into the challenges of intimate and action scenes, and reveals the inspiration for his upcoming directorial debut, all while being guided by a poignant Bukowski poem.

Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Hilton Als, renowned for his incisive critiques at The New Yorker, discusses his latest memoir capturing the essence of Prince and reflects on the literary giants that influenced him, including Joan Didion and Adrienne Kennedy. He shares insights on the delicate balance of memory and storytelling, reminiscing about his upbringing in Brownsville, Brooklyn. Als dives deep into the interplay of familial relationships and personal identity, highlighting the intricate connection between art and legacy while offering a poignant reading that emphasizes the power of self-expression.

Sebastian Stan, acclaimed for his role as Bucky Barnes in the MCU, dives into his transformative portrayal of Donald Trump in The Apprentice. He shares insights from his research on 1970s-1980s New York City and reflects on his Romanian upbringing and the complex reality of the American dream. The conversation touches on the impact of Jonathan Demme on his craft and the emotional depth in A Different Man. Sebastian also discusses the entertainment industry's response to controversial narratives and the significance of embracing vulnerability in his artistic journey.

In a poignant reflection, legendary poet and activist Nikki Giovanni discusses her impactful career and personal journey. She shares insights on how her childhood shaped her writing and the significance of her renowned poem, 'I Married My Mother.' Giovanni recalls a transformative televised conversation with James Baldwin and explains her belief in living without role models. She opens up about visiting the African American Museum, the evolution of her poetry, and her resilience in facing two cancer battles, concluding with a reading from her inventive biography.

Ava DuVernay, the award-winning filmmaker behind 'Selma' and 'When They See Us,' shares insights on Hollywood's evolving landscape and the struggles for diversity after recent labor strikes. Julia Louis-Dreyfus, beloved for her roles in 'Seinfeld' and 'Veep,' discusses the power of resilience in her journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. Both guests reflect on personal challenges, industry changes, and illustrate the profound impact of storytelling in shaping culture and inspiring future generations.

Padma Lakshmi, a writer and food expert known for her work on 'Taste the Nation' and 'Top Chef,' dives into her personal journey and the powerful themes behind her shows. She shares stories from her childhood in New York City and reflects on her unexpected modeling career. Padma confronts patriarchal challenges and discusses her advocacy for endometriosis awareness. With a focus on immigrant narratives and identity, she highlights the stories she aims to tell in the future while addressing the importance of representation and resilience.

Jeff Daniels, acclaimed actor and playwright, shares insights from his rich career, from growing up in Michigan to his role in 'American Rust.' He discusses his transformative journey in New York City, his early roles in iconic films, and the influence of theater legends. Daniels reflects on reimagining Atticus Finch for Broadway and the power of storytelling in today’s world. He also pays heartfelt tribute to his late father through music, showcasing his depth as both a storyteller and a performer.

Jesse Eisenberg, celebrated actor, writer, and director, dives deep into his personal journey behind his latest film, A Real Pain. He shares memories from his travels in Poland and reflects on his family’s influence while growing up. Eisenberg discusses his early writing experiences and landmark acting roles, plus the transformation he underwent for The Social Network. With humor and introspection, he explores the complexities of creativity, heritage, and personal growth, shedding light on the emotional challenges he faced while crafting his art.

In this insightful conversation, Josh Brolin, acclaimed actor from films like No Country for Old Men and Dune, delves into his tumultuous upbringing and the profound influence of his mother. He shares raw reflections on his battle with addiction and the importance of storytelling in understanding one's identity. Brolin illuminates his collaborations with the Coen Brothers and reveals why after decades in acting, he felt compelled to pen his memoir. This journey through fame, creativity, and self-discovery offers a glimpse into a life lived in vivid color.

Astead Herndon, a National politics reporter for The New York Times and host of The Run-Up, offers a fearless analysis of the upcoming elections. He contrasts election nights of 2016 and 2024, shedding light on the misconceptions some politicians hold about Black and Latino voters. Astead recounts his revealing interview with Vice President Harris, examines Democratic messaging failures, and discusses the rise of the 'podcast election.' He insists that the Democratic Party must evolve to effectively engage voters, addressing power dynamics and accountability.