SmartLess
Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett
"SmartLess" with Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, & Will Arnett is a podcast that connects and unites people from all walks of life to learn about shared experiences through thoughtful dialogue and organic hilarity. A nice surprise: in each episode of SmartLess, one of the hosts reveals his mystery guest to the other two. What ensues is a genuinely improvised and authentic conversation filled with laughter and newfound knowledge to feed the SmartLess mind.
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Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of SmartLess ad-free and a whole week early.
Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 4min
"Tom Freston"
Tom Freston, a veteran media executive known for co-founding MTV and leading Viacom, shares wild stories from his eclectic career. He recounts how he left advertising for adventurous travels, including life in Afghanistan and a clothing business. Tom reveals the origins of MTV and its cultural impact, along with insights about founding Comedy Central. He also discusses the rise and fall of new media brands, his philanthropic work with the ONE Campaign, and the challenges of today’s AI landscape. Buckle up for a journey filled with curiosity and risk!
Nov 6, 2025 • 35min
INTRODUCING: I Need You Guys with Gabe Liedman, Jenny Slate and Max Silvestri (w/ Sean Hayes)
In this lively conversation, Sean Hayes, beloved actor from Will & Grace, shares hilarious anecdotes and insights. The hosts dive into a meme controversy featuring Jenny and seek Sean's advice on how to respond. They also engage in funny discussions about quirky childhood phone experiences and even attempt various accents. Sean emphasizes the importance of honesty for long-lasting friendships in the industry. Listeners are treated to a playful exploration of etiquette and nostalgia, making for an entertaining and heartwarming discussion.
51 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 1h 8min
"David Duchovny"
Join David Duchovny, the versatile actor, writer, and musician known for The X-Files and Californication, as he shares insights into his creative journey. He reflects on his academic path and passion for writing, revealing how he turned a year of travel into inspiration. David talks about his music career, the balancing act of multiple artistic pursuits, and his rollercoaster ride through Hollywood. He humorously discusses the legacy of his iconic roles and even touches on his beliefs about extraterrestrial life. A delightful mix of stories awaits!
42 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 59min
"Oscar Isaac"
Oscar Isaac, an accomplished actor and musician known for roles in Ex Machina and Dune, joins the discussion. He dives into his Juilliard journey, revealing a humorous audition story. Oscar shares insights on balancing film, theater, and music, plus his skate punk band roots. The conversation also touches on the emotional depth of his roles, especially in Frankenstein, and his fascinating immigrant background. With anecdotes about his Star Wars experience and a playful moment involving his modesty sock, Oscar brings laughter and depth to the chat.
54 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 1h 2min
"Edgar Wright"
Edgar Wright, a dynamic film director known for his innovative genre-blending and high-energy storytelling, shares his cinematic journey. He recounts sneaking into movies as a kid, his creative process behind the Cornetto trilogy, and his passion for music's role in storytelling. Wright discusses making his first feature on a shoestring budget and reveals insights into directing his adaptation of The Running Man. With personal anecdotes and reflections on his collaborations, he brings a delightful mix of nostalgia and inspiration.
78 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 60min
"Julia Roberts"
In this engaging conversation, Academy Award-winning actress Julia Roberts shares insights from her illustrious career, including her journey from selling shoes to iconic roles in Mystic Pizza and Pretty Woman. She reflects on the challenges of sudden fame and her thoughtful approach to selecting projects. Julia reveals fun anecdotes from her theater days and discusses her new film After the Hunt. The conversation also touches on family life, parenting, and her life as America's sweetheart, highlighting her charming personality and enduring legacy in Hollywood.
22 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 3min
"RE-RELEASE: Paul Thomas Anderson"
Acclaimed filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson, known for masterworks like Boogie Nights and There Will Be Blood, shares insights from his illustrious career. He reveals how early TV experiences influenced his work and discusses his first script, The Dirk Diggler Story. Paul reflects on navigating storytelling in film versus streaming, emphasizing concise narratives. He dives into collaborations, notably with Johnny Greenwood, and expounds on the significance of film preservation. Plus, he opens up about balancing his creative life with fatherhood.
30 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 56min
"Kirsten Dunst"
Join Academy Award-nominated actress Kirsten Dunst as she shares her colorful journey in Hollywood. She recounts her early acting days, including living at Oakwood and landing iconic roles. Kirsten spills the tea on parenting challenges and her favorite family TV rituals, like watching Lego Masters. She also reflects on her experience making Melancholia in Sweden and shares funny stories about auditioning. Plus, she reveals her dream collaborator and what roles she hopes to tackle next—all while embracing the joys of fame and family life.
74 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 56min
"Michelle Pfeiffer"
Academy Award-nominated actress Michelle Pfeiffer shares an insider's look at her storied career. She talks about her unexpected journey from court reporting to acting and the unique experience of filming Grease 2. Michelle reveals how becoming a grandmother shifted her priorities and deepened her love for acting. She reflects on evolving opportunities for women in film and her approach to selecting projects. With anecdotes about auditioning for Scarface and some fun on-set stories, Michelle delivers a captivating peek into her life in Hollywood.
26 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 3min
"Lionel Richie"
Join the iconic Lionel Richie, a Grammy-winning superstar whose career spans decades, as he dives into his extraordinary world. He shares tales of his Tuskegee roots and the fascinating journey behind his memoir, 'Truly.' Discover the artistry behind classics like 'Hello' and 'All Night Long,' and how he learned to create hits by ear. Lionel also reminisces about the impactful unity of 'We Are The World' and reflects on his vibrant touring life, including a memorable moment at Glastonbury.
