The Great Creators with Guy Raz

Actor Rainn Wilson is best known for playing Dwight on "The Office," but in recent years he has become a mental health and spirituality advocate through his books and production company, SoulPancake. He joins Guy to talk about auditioning for the role of Michael Scott, the deep anxiety he faced as a young actor, his ensuing search for inner peace, and why he believes performing can be a spiritual act.Rainn’s book is called “Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution”.This episode originally aired in April 2023.Links from the show:Rainn and Steve Carell give a tour of the set of "The Office"The documentary "Laughing Matters," produced by Rainn's production company with comedians talking about mental healthRainn quizzes Billie Eilesh ("The Office's biggest fan")Rainn on the difference between The Office and Saturday Night LiveRainn and Steve Carell talk about pandemic-related stress and give advice on how to overcome itRainn and chess master Magnus Carlsen talk chess and metaphysicsFor more conversations like this – with guests ranging from Stephen Colbert to Ice Cube to Jason Sudeikis – go to https://www.thegreatcreators.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Singer-songwriter Cody Jinks shares his journey from heavy metal frontman and part-time bouncer and forklift driver to country music’s top independent artist. He talks about enduring years of poverty in order to keep 100% ownership over his publishing (“it was worth it”); how he wrote the 2x-platinum track “Loud & Heavy”; finding sobriety; and evolving his sound into his 40s.Cody’s new album is called “Change the Game”.Links from the Show: “Loud & Heavy” ​“Sober Thing”Cody’s websiteCody’s InstagramFor more conversations like this – with guests ranging from Lainey Wilson and Shania Twain to Jeff Tweedy and The Smiths’ Johnny Marr – go to https://www.thegreatcreators.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Every weeknight, Louis Cato performs live in front of a few million people as the band leader for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. He arranges the tunes, sets the tone, and plays multiple instruments himself; Colbert calls him a “musical genius”. Today, Louis talks about the multi-decade journey that led him here – from listening to “only Jesus music” in his youth and then having his mind blown by the Rolling Stones, to dropping out of the Berklee College of Music and touring the world, to a near-fatal accident that still affects him to this day. He even sings us a few beautiful bars. Louis’ most recent solo album is called “Reflections”.Links from the show: Louis being introduced by Stephen as the new Late Show band leader in 2022 Introducing Louis Cato and The Late Show Band!Louis’ NPR Tiny Desk Concert Louis Cato: Tiny Desk ConcertLouis performing “Reflections” on the Late ShowBuy Louis’ album “Reflections” Louis’ Instagram See all our episodes – including conversations with Tom Hanks, Jason Sudeikis, Bjork, and many more – at TheGreatCreators.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jacob Collier, known as the 'Mozart of Gen Z,' discusses viral performances, Quincy Jones friendship, eclectic collaborations, and his recent album. Explore his childhood, creative process, and refusal to make pop hits. From T-Pain to Chris Martin, his album Djesse Vol. 4 features diverse voices and musical styles. An episode filled with insights into Collier's unique musical journey and innovative approach to music.

Ryan Tedder is the lead singer of OneRepublic and the producer and songwriter behind countless hits including Adele’s Rumor Has It and Beyonce’s Halo. Tedder even sold his own catalog for a reported $200 million. He joins Guy to talk about growing up in a religious family, tackling his stagefright (“I was shaking backstage”), using personal experiences to write hits, working with star musicians, and how to choose singles in the TikTok age. This episode was originally released in 2023.Links from the ShowRyan Tedder performing “Apologize” solo for BBC MusicOneRepublic’s music video for “I Ain’t Worried” featured on Top Gun: Maverick Music video for Adele’s “Rumor Has It” co-written by Ryan TedderMusic video for Beyonce’s “Halo” co-written by Ryan TedderMusic video for Paul McCartney’s “Fuh You” co-written by Ryan TedderRyan’s InstagramHis TikTokHis Hit-Making CourseSee all our episodes – including conversations with Tom Hanks, Jason Sudeikis, Bjork, and many more – at TheGreatCreators.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hilary Swank shares her inspiring journey from a trailer park to Hollywood success, including her breakout role in 'Boys Don't Cry' and challenges in the industry. She reflects on playing a transgender character, underrated movies, and balancing acting with motherhood. Swank's newest film 'Ordinary Angels' is highlighted in the conversation.

Regina Spektor, critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter, discusses her journey from a medical receptionist to a rising star in the NYC music scene. She shares her songwriting process, thoughts on finding fresh ideas while raising children, and how 'invisibility' has been her greatest creative asset.

David Chang, founder of Momofuku, talks about his journey from opening his first restaurant after a ramen revelation in Japan to building a culinary empire. He discusses the toxic elements of kitchen culture, his pursuit of multiple projects, and the role of food in expressing love and creativity.

Dan Aykroyd was the youngest cast member on a brand new comedy show called Saturday Night Live when it premiered in 1975. In addition to iconic performances as Julia Child and a Conehead, Dan also created a real blues band called The Blues Brothers with fellow cast mate John Belushi. In this episode, Dan talks with Guy about playing drums behind Muddy Waters, his fascination with paranormal science that led him to create Ghostbusters, what he thinks of the female-led Ghostbusters reboot he helped produce, and the reason he thinks he's done with acting.Links from the show: Coneheads sketchBass-O-matic sketchAsk President Carter sketchThe Blues Brothers on SNLSoul ManCrystal Head VodkaZombie Town TrailerSee all our episodes – including conversations with Tom Hanks, Jason Sudeikis, Bjork, and many more – at TheGreatCreators.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jake Johnson shares his journey from dropout to director, discussing his struggles with dyslexia, chemistry with co-stars, and inspiration for his film. He reflects on family dynamics, his high school acting discovery, and character evolution in 'New Girl'. The podcast also features insights on forgiveness, personal growth, and surviving a dark web reality game.