Fail Better with David Duchovny

In this engaging conversation with Andy Cohen, a pioneering force in reality TV, he shares how his childhood fascination with soap operas shaped his career. They discuss the fine line between authenticity and performance in reality shows, revealing the emotional complexities behind maintaining personal boundaries. Cohen reflects on the impact of societal norms during his youth and the importance of diverse family structures in the LGBTQ+ community. The chat also touches on the challenges of single parenting and the cultural implications of modern television.

Seth Meyers, a veteran late-night host and SNL alum, joins to discuss the delicate balance of comedy and authenticity. He shares hilarious insights on navigating the pressures of hosting versus being a guest and emphasizes the power of collaboration in comedic success. Meyers reflects on memorable skits, the evolution of late-night humor, and the vital importance of aligning one's on-screen persona with their true self. He also touches on the creative journey that fosters personal growth, showcasing how mistakes can lead to comedy gold.

Here’s something a little different this week, before I come back next week with more interviews. At the end of each episode, you hear a snippet of my thoughts on the interview, usually a day or so later after I’ve had time to sit with it. I share the full version of those freeform, reflective monologues with our Premium subscribers, and today I wanted to share some of my favorites to give you a glimpse. If you want to get all of these insights released alongside the main episodes, you can subscribe at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. As added incentive, you'll also be able to get bonus content from all other Lemonada shows. Follow me on Instagram at @davidduchovny. Stay up to date with Lemonada on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. And if you want to continue the conversation with other listeners, join the My Lemonada community at https://lemonadamedia.com/mylemonada/ For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging discussion, David Duchovny, an acclaimed actor and author, joins Adam Grant, a renowned organizational psychologist and best-selling author. They dive into the art of embracing failure and how it can lead to personal growth. Duchovny reflects on his shift from blockbuster fame to independent projects, highlighting resilience and authenticity. They also tackle the impact of AI on creativity and the importance of redefining success against societal expectations. Their insights encourage listeners to find empowerment through vulnerability.

Kathleen Hanna, an influential punk musician and feminist activist known for her groundbreaking work with Bikini Kill, shares her journey through the complexities of indie fame. She discusses the tension between authentic artistic expression and commercialization, especially in light of today’s feminist movements. Their conversation delves into the transformative power of music, the challenges women face in the industry, and how personal trauma can fuel creativity. Hanna also reflects on her memoir, Rebel Girl, and its portrayal of resilience and community influence.

Kumail Nanjiani, an accomplished actor and comedian, shares his transformation journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leading man and superhero. He reflects on his time in The X-Files, revealing its cultural impact on his life. The conversation also dives into the importance of mental health, therapy, and navigating personal identity through comedy. Kumail discusses redefining ambition by valuing relationships and emotional expression, emphasizing joy in creative pursuits over traditional success metrics.

Mary Trump, author and niece of former President Donald Trump, shares insights from her memoir, discussing how her family's dynamics shaped Donald's personality. She examines her grandfather Fred's sociopathic influence, revealing the psychological impact on Trump children. The conversation touches on the importance of therapy in navigating life's chaos, the struggles of career transitions, and the necessity of empathetic communication in a polarized world. Mary offers a poignant reflection on how family legacies affect individual identities and societal values.

In this engaging conversation, Stephen Dubner, host of Freakonomics Radio, examines how our understanding of failure shapes personal growth and societal responses. He discusses the devastating wildfires in Lahaina, emphasizing the need for improved crisis management. Cultural perspectives on failure are explored, highlighting the stark differences between the U.S. and Europe. Dubner also delves into the complexities of personal relationships mirroring professional failures and the importance of creating nurturing environments that allow for healthy learning from mistakes.

Griffin Dunne, an accomplished actor and producer known for roles in *An American Werewolf in London* and *After Hours*, discusses his recent transition to writing with the release of his family memoir. He reflects on the weight of his family's literary legacy and the impact of personal tragedy on his storytelling. The conversation navigates themes of loss, identity, and the complexities of fame within familial relationships. Dunne also explores how grief and redemption can shape artistic expression, providing a poignant look at healing through narrative.

Sportswriter Sally Jenkins discusses the lessons learned from top athletes, including Lance Armstrong and Billie Jean King. She explores why losing can be beneficial, the impact of failure, and the importance of embracing authenticity and resilience in sports and life.