Fail Better with David Duchovny

Ben Stiller, the comedic genius behind classics like Zoolander, shares insightful tales from his journey in the entertainment industry. He opens up about the emotional highs and lows of filming projects like The Cable Guy and how criticism shaped his career. Stiller also reflects on the unique challenges of growing up in a comedic family and the balancing act of fatherhood and ambition. With humor and honesty, he dives into the transformative nature of failure and the importance of resilience in creative endeavors.

Alec Baldwin, the acclaimed actor and writer known for his roles in 30 Rock, dives deep into his dual experiences of success and struggle. He shares poignant reflections on father figures and how they shape relationships. Baldwin discusses the emotional complexities of writing memoirs, touching on themes of grief and responsibility in fatherhood. The conversation also navigates the pressures of fame, the misunderstandings within the industry, and the liberating yet challenging path of creative expression, all underscored by a desire for personal growth.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the 21st U.S. Surgeon General, shares his insights on holistic health, addressing issues like gun violence and loneliness as health crises. He reflects on the personal challenges of his confirmation journey and the importance of fulfillment in life. The discussion highlights the detrimental effects of social media on youth mental health and advocates for stronger regulations. Murthy also emphasizes the need to rebuild trust in science post-pandemic and the significance of emotional connections in overcoming loneliness.

Jack Halberstam, a Professor of English and Gender Studies at Columbia University and author of The Queer Art of Failure, dives into the radical undertones in children's films like Shrek and Finding Nemo. He discusses how these movies critique societal norms while embracing themes of resilience and imperfection. The conversation also explores Halberstam's own experiences as a queer child in England and questions traditional concepts of success and failure, inviting listeners to reconsider societal expectations and cultural narratives.

Aimee Mann, the introspective singer-songwriter known for her poignant explorations of mental health, joins for an engaging conversation. She reveals how her past traumas shape her music and the importance of turning pain into art. Together, they dive into the craft of songwriting, discussing emotional resonance and personal growth. The duo lightens the mood by reminiscing about their favorite artists, including the cleverly somber Steely Dan, illustrating the complexity of balancing creativity and mental wellness.

Gillian Anderson, an acclaimed actor and activist known for her roles in The X-Files and The Crown, shares a heartfelt reunion with David Duchovny. They humorously discuss a unique drink derived from butterfly pee while reflecting on their deep bond and shared challenges during their careers. Gillian opens up about her writing in the compilation "Want" and her unconventional wellness soft drink line. The conversation touches on personal growth, emotional struggles, and the importance of authenticity in their careers and friendships.

Jia Tolentino, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of the acclaimed essay collection Trick Mirror, opens up about her journey through the digital landscape. She discusses the joys and pitfalls of online life, the impact of digital surveillance, and the complexities of raising children in a tech-saturated world. Jia reflects on how aesthetic pressures affect self-perception and the importance of fostering empathy through literature. Join her as she navigates the paradox of success in creativity, embracing imperfection along the way.

I go on the record with my opinions on the election. Not surprisingly, given this podcast, I find some major connections to failure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nate Silver, the renowned statistician and founder of FiveThirtyEight, dives into the art of prediction and risk management. He shares thrilling tales from the gambling table and his bold forecasts in elections. The conversation highlights the psychological aspects of failure, the importance of strategic relationships, and the complexities of polling methodologies. Silver also reflects on the high-stakes environment of both poker and politics, emphasizing emotional intelligence and adaptability in decision-making. It's a fascinating look at how calculated risks can lead to personal growth.

I’ve known Jason Beghe for 50 years and counting, ever since we met one fateful day in a high school biology class. I watched as this rambunctious and rebellious kid grew up and carved his own path, never following trends. But when Jason became heavily involved in the Church of Scientology, we drifted apart — and I felt like I’d failed him as a friend. For the first time, we unpack what went on between us during that period of our lives, and why our friendship endured. These days we’re close as ever, and I couldn’t be more proud of Jason’s unparalleled success as Sgt. Hank Voight on the long-running NBC series Chicago P.D. From the halls of our high school to the set of Californication, we reflect on a lifelong friendship the same way we always have: with heart and lots of childlike laughter.  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.