

Unlocking Us with Brené Brown
Vox Media Podcast Network
I’ve spent over 20 years studying the emotions and experiences that bring meaning and purpose to our lives, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s this: we are hardwired for connection, and connecting requires courage, vulnerability, and conversation. I want this to be a podcast that’s real, unpolished, honest, and reflects both the magic and the messiness of what it means to be human. Episodes will include conversations with the people who are teaching me, challenging me, confusing me, or maybe even ticking me off a little. I'll also have direct conversations with you about what I’m learning from new research, and we'll do some episodes dedicated to answering your questions. We don’t have to do life alone. We were never meant to.Part of the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 15, 2020 • 33min
Brené on Ask Me Anything, Part 2 of 2
Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of parenting and shame resilience. Discover key strategies for fostering emotional health in children, and learn how open communication can create a safe environment. The discussion also highlights powerful films and TV shows that authentically portray human emotions. Personal anecdotes shed light on overcoming intergenerational shame and the importance of vulnerability in relationships. It's a heartfelt journey towards understanding and nurturing emotional well-being.

Jul 8, 2020 • 52min
Brené on Ask Me Anything, Part 1 of 2
Listeners dive into thought-provoking questions about shame, accountability, and the impact of fake news. The conversation tackles the fine line between disappointment and self-pity, highlighting personal growth through emotional struggles. Historical shame's role in social justice is examined, advocating for dialogue over condemnation. Rapid-fire reflections reveal personal favorites and moments of vulnerability, inviting deeper connections with the audience while emphasizing the complexities of human experience.

27 snips
Jul 1, 2020 • 48min
Brené on Shame and Accountability
Delving into shame, accountability, and racism, the speaker discusses being held accountable for racism and navigating shame. They share personal stories and strategies for handling shame-induced flight-or-fight responses. Exploring empathy, regulating emotions, and the importance of self-reflection in accountability.

Jun 26, 2020 • 1h 6min
Brené with Judd Apatow on Vulnerability and Laughter
In this engaging talk, Judd Apatow, celebrated director and comedian, dives into the connection between vulnerability and humor. He explores how laughter can foster meaningful relationships and the delicate balance between comedy and grief. Judd shares insights from his films, reflecting on family dynamics during quarantine and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. The discussion also highlights the significance of kindness and empathy in hard times, revealing how personal narratives bring us closer together.

Jun 24, 2020 • 1h 22min
Brené with Gina Chavez and Carrie Rodriguez on the Heart and Soul of Music
Gina Chavez and Carrie Rodriguez, talented musicians from Austin, blend personal storytelling with cultural heritage in their music. They share their journeys of growth and the healing power of music, emphasizing the importance of bilingual songs in preserving traditions. In a heartfelt discussion, they explore their West Texas roots and the legacy of women in the music industry. Their activism shines through as they reflect on projects addressing social issues, illustrating how music connects communities and uplifts marginalized voices.

7 snips
Jun 17, 2020 • 1h 4min
Brené with Laverne Cox on Transgender Representation, Advocacy + the Power of Love
In this conversation with Laverne Cox, Emmy-nominated actress and advocate, they delve into the groundbreaking documentary 'Disclosure' that focuses on transgender representation. Laverne discusses the urgent need for policy protections for the trans community and the intricacies of intersectionality. They explore the significance of owning personal narratives amidst societal challenges, and the emotional impacts of trans representation in media. Ultimately, their dialogue highlights the transformative power of love and the importance of advocacy for marginalized communities.

5 snips
Jun 10, 2020 • 1h 7min
Brené with Austin Channing Brown on I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness
Austin Channing Brown, a writer and leading voice on racial justice, shares her insights on Black dignity and anti-racism. She discusses her impactful book, exploring the emotional turmoil experienced during social justice movements. The conversation also tackles the misconceptions surrounding 'niceness' and the importance of true accountability in anti-racism. Additionally, Austin highlights her show 'The Next Question,' which fosters deeper dialogues on pressing social issues, encouraging listeners to engage thoughtfully in the fight against systemic oppression.

11 snips
Jun 3, 2020 • 1h 5min
Brené with Ibram X. Kendi on How to Be an Antiracist
Ibram X. Kendi, a leading scholar on antiracism and the director of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center, dives deep into the complexities of racial disparities and personal accountability. He discusses the impact of COVID-19 on Black communities, the importance of acknowledging personal biases, and the pitfalls of shame in anti-racist work. Kendi emphasizes that everyone has a role in fighting systemic racism and advocates for early education to challenge ingrained biases. Their conversation blends vulnerability with actionable insights, inspiring listeners to embrace courage in their journey toward equity.

May 29, 2020 • 1h 9min
Brené with Reese Witherspoon & Kerry Washington on Little Fires Everywhere
Reese Witherspoon, a creative powerhouse and storyteller, and Kerry Washington, known for her truth-telling artistry, engage in a heartfelt conversation about 'Little Fires Everywhere.' They dive into the challenges of adapting complex characters and share their insights on the emotional truths of motherhood. The duo reflects on their responsibility to honor diverse narratives and confront generational trauma in parenting. Their discussion emphasizes the beauty of ordinary moments and the power of authentic storytelling in connecting us all.

May 27, 2020 • 1h 6min
Brené and Celeste Ng on Little Fires Everywhere
Celeste Ng, acclaimed author of 'Little Fires Everywhere,' shares her insights on the multifaceted writing process and the profound stories that shape our identities. They delve into the emotional challenges of parenthood and the bittersweet nature of watching children grow. Ng reflects on her hometown of Shaker Heights, revealing how it influences narrative voice and personal identity. Additionally, the conversation highlights the joy and vulnerability of family connections, particularly during the complexities of life in recent times.