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In this episode, Krista takes a look back at some of her favorite Present Company moments of 2021.

Maggie Gyllenhaal joins the show to talk about her feature directorial debut, The Lost Daughter. Adapted from pseudonymous Italian novelist Elena Ferrante's book by the same name, The Lost Daughter follows Leda (Olivia Colman), a college professor vacationing in Greece who becomes obsessed with a young mother and daughter that she encounters at the beach. Over the course of Leda's trip, her proximity to the duo prompts memories from her own early days of motherhood, forcing Leda to confront her past. In this interview, Gyllenhaal explains why she was originally drawn to the story, what it was like to contact Ferrante, and how she brought Olivia Colman onto the project. Gyllenhaal also shares what it was like to direct her husband Peter Sarsgaard, explains the importance of creating a loving, supportive on-set environment, and reflects on why opening herself up to the idea of directing took so many years.

Adam McKay joins the show to talk about his new disaster comedy, Don't Look Up. The film boasts a massive star-studded cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Jonah Hill, Rob Morgan, Timothée Chalamet, Cate Blanchett, Tyler Perry, and Ariana Grande. In this interview, McKay shares the unlikely initial source of inspiration for the project, details how he assembled his knockout cast, and discusses the essential role that improv played on set. McKay also describes how he got his start in comedy, reflects on the current state of the world, and gives an update on his daughter Pearl, who gained international fame at 2 years old after she starred in his and Will Ferrell's classic Funny or Die sketch, "The Landlord."

Over the past few months, Krista sat down separately with the cast of Jane Campion’s new film, The Power of the Dog. Today, she takes a deep dive into those conversations to bring together the perspectives and experiences of the actors behind this incredible project.

Olivia Colman joins the show to talk about her performance in Maggie Gyllenhaal's feature directorial debut, The Lost Daughter. Adapted from Elena Ferrante's novel by the same name,The Lost Daughter follows Leda (Olivia Colman), a college professor vacationing in Greece who becomes obsessed with a young mother and daughter who she encounters at the beach. Over the course of Leda's trip, her proximity to the duo prompts memories from her own early days of motherhood, forcing Leda to confront her past. In this interview, Colman explains why she was immediately drawn to the script, what it was like to be directed by Gyllenhaal, and how she collaborated with co-stars Dakota Johnson, Ed Harris, and Jessie Buckley. Colman also reflects on her humble journey from British theatre and TV comedy to international stardom, offers advice to young actors on how to stay grounded and grateful, and opens up about the anxiety caused by her dwindling anonymity.

Kodi Smit-McPhee joins the show to talk about his performance as Peter Gordon in Jane Campion's much anticipated film, The Power Of The Dog. Set in 1920's Montana, the film follows rancher Phil Burbank (Benedict Cumberbatch) and his brother George (Jesse Plemons). When George brings home his new wife Rose (Kirsten Dunst) and her son Peter, Phil responds to the pair with mocking cruelty, until the unexpected happens. In this interview, Smit-McPhee describes his journey from the Australian movie scene to Hollywood, recounts his audition forThe Power Of The Dog, and details some of the unconventional acting techniques he and Campion utilized to bring Peter to life. Smit-McPhee also explains what it was like to work closely with his co-stars, touches on his love of philosophy, and opens up about some of the challenges he's had to navigate alongside his developing career.

Halle Berry joins the show to talk about her directorial debut, Bruised. The film follows Jackie Justice (Halle Berry), a disgraced MMA fighter who returns to the cage to seek redemption after the son she had given up as a baby suddenly re-enters her life. In this interview, Berry describes her immediate fascination with the script, her journey to the director's chair, and how she re-worked the story (which originally followed a 20-something Irish Catholic white woman) to center on a middle-aged Black mother. Berry also describes the intense physical training she went through to prepare for the role, touches on the challenges of straddling her many responsibilities on set, and reflects on how she has learned to manage fear in both her personal life and over the course of her career.

Dwayne Johnson joins the show to talk about his new action comedy, Red Notice. The film follows John Hartley (Dwayne Johnson), an FBI agent determined to bring down the two most wanted art thieves in the world (Ryan Reynolds & Gal Gadot). In this interview, Johnson talks about how the project got off the ground, what it was like filming with his long-time friend Ryan Reynolds, and the story behind his production company Seven Bucks Productions. Johnson also speaks openly about the fear and vulnerability he faced when transitioning from the world of WWE to Hollywood, describes how he finds peace in his daily routine, and offers a word of advice on how to cut through the chaos and focus on your goals.

Andrew Garfield sits down to discuss his latest film tick, tick…BOOM!, in which he plays Jonathan Larson, the American playwright and composer who gave the world the musical phenomenon Rent. The film marks the feature directorial debut of Lin-Manuel Miranda, and it’s also the first time audiences will see Garfield singing and dancing as he steps into the world of musical theater. The Academy Award nominee and Tony winner shares his intense preparation for the role, the urgency that lies at the heart of the story, and the importance of activist artists. He also reflects on the unique pressures faced by young actors today, the lessons he’s learned from directors like Mike Nichols and Martin Scorsese, and the gift in embracing challenges that at first feel impossible.

Rebecca Hall joins the show to talk about her feature directorial debut, Passing. The film follows two Black women (Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga) who can “pass” as white but have chosen to live on opposite sides of the color line in 1920's New York City. As their lives become increasingly intertwined, both must contend with new threats to their carefully constructed realities. In this interview, Hall takes us back 13 years to when she first came across Nella Larson's 1929 novel, discusses how uncovering of her own family history forced her to grapple with the subject matter, and explains how she worked with Thompson and Negga to bring the two beautifully complex lead characters to life. Hall also speaks candidly about the challenges of getting the film off the ground, touches on the importance of shooting the film in black and white, and shares details about her experiences as a first time filmmaker.

Regina King joins the show to talk about her performance as Trudy Smith in the epic Western, The Harder They Fall. The film follows Nat Love (Jonathan Majors), a young outlaw dead set on seeking revenge against his lifelong enemy Rufus Buck (Idris Elba) and his infamous companions Trudy Smith (Regina King) and Cherokee Bill (LaKeith Stanfield). When Nat discovers Rufus has been released from prison, he rounds up an unlikely team to take down Rufus and his gang once and for all. In this interview, King shares how her initial skepticism of the project turned into intrigue, gives insight into her on-set dynamic with Elba and Stanfield, and describes the energetic environment director Jeymes Samuel was able to create on set despite the challenges of shooting mid-pandemic. King also reflects on motherhood, how love overpowers fear in her life, and speaks to the power of patience.

Jeymes Samuel joins the show to talk about his feature directorial debut, The Harder They Fall. The film follows Nat Love (Jonathan Majors), a young outlaw dead set on seeking revenge against his lifelong enemy Rufus Buck (Idris Elba). When Nat discovers Rufus has been released from prison, he rounds up an unlikely team to take down Rufus and his infamous gang once and for all. In this interview, Samuel talks about his lifelong fascination with the Western genre, the importance of deconstructing and revitalizing it through a modern lens, and how he used his own original music to carefully shape the characters and story we see on screen. Samuel also shares his singing talents, touches on working with producer Jay-Z, and talks candidly about his fear of the dark.

Welcome back to another episode of Present Company On The Road! In this interview, Krista sits down with Dakota Johnson at the Telluride Film Festival to talk about her performance in Maggie Gyllenhaal's feature directorial debut, The Lost Daughter. Adapted from Elena Ferrante's novel by the same name, The Lost Daughter follows Leda (Olivia Colman), a college professor vacationing in Greece who becomes obsessed with a young mother named Nina (Dakota Johnson) and her daughter. Over the course of Leda's trip, her proximity to the duo prompts memories from her own early days of motherhood, forcing Leda to confront her past. In this interview, Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey, The Peanut Butter Falcon, Our Friend) discusses why she was drawn to the role, her experience working with first-time director Maggie Gyllenhaal, and the isolating effects of shooting during COVID-19. Johnson also shares the motivation behind her production company TeaTime Pictures and hints at her own future directorial ambitions.

Welcome to the first episode of Present Company On The Road -- a brand new segment bringing you to some of the biggest film events in the country. In this episode, Krista sits down with Kirsten Dunst at the Telluride Film Festival. It's been nearly three decades since Kirsten Dunst first made a name for herself in Hollywood. She started modeling and appearing in commercials at just three years old -- a full eight years before her breakout role alongside Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise in Interview with the Vampire. Since then, she's brought us unforgettable performances in projects such as The Virgin Suicides, Melancholia, and Fargo. Now, Dunst has delivered yet another phenomenal performance as Rose in Jane Campion's new feature adaptation, The Power of the Dog. In this interview, she discusses what it was like to once again share the screen with her partner Jesse Plemons, how she prepares for a role, and how her long history of working with female directors impacted her as an artist. Dunst also touches on the fears she grapples with as a parent and imparts some wisdom onto the next generation of actors.

Jake Gyllenhaal joins the show to talk about his latest film, The Guilty, in which he plays Joe Baylor, a 911 operator struggling to save one of his distressed callers. Gyllenhaal, who is also a producer on the film, discusses why he wanted to transpose the original Danish film into an American context, the importance of centering the film around systemic issues, and the challenges of shooting during COVID-19. Gyllenhaal also discusses the delicious culinary creations he's been whipping up during quarantine and touches on how he navigates his own fears in an artistic space.

In this special mini episode of Present Company, Krista reflects on her recent trip to the Telluride Film Festival and gives listeners a sneak peak into this season's fantastic guest lineup.

Omar Sy joins Present Company to discuss his hit series “Lupin.” The worldwide success of the show is the the second time in Sy’s career that he has starred in an entertainment phenomenon, the first being the French film “The Intouchables.” That film remains Frances’ biggest global hit, and Sy won the French equivalent of an Oscar, the César Award, for his performance. In this interview, Sy discusses why Lupin is such a captivating figure for his character to emulate, how the series illuminates issues of race and class, and what it feels like to fly the French flag with the success of the series. He also discusses his childhood in France, what it was like growing up as the middle child of eight, and why he decided to move to Los Angeles. Plus, he shares the surprising role the Kardashians played in helping him learn English.

Ewan McGregor joins the show to discuss his tour de force performance in “Halston,” the limited series in which he plays the take-no-prisoners designer who took New York by storm. He shares what first drew him to the role, how he prepared to capture the man and his craft, why he wanted to meet Liza Minnelli before playing Halston, and the scenes he found most challenging to play. McGregor also reflects on the arc of his career to date, the dynamic and distinct career choices he’s made along the way, and the fears he still faces when he tackles a new role.

Joey King joins the show to discuss the third and final instalment of her global franchise hit “The Kissing Booth.” She reflects back on how the journey began, what it was like when the first film became a phenomenon, and how the trilogy has changed her life. King also talks about her trajectory from being a child actor to being nominated for an Emmy, SAG, and Golden Globe for her extraordinary performance opposite Patricia Arquette in “The Act,” and her work as a producer. She also shares the pressures of social media, how she handles fear and self-doubt, and her advice for young creatives who might be struggling.

Across the years, Michael Douglas’ films have captured the spirit of the times and audiences’ imaginations, from “Wall Street” and “Fatal Attraction,” to “Falling Down” and “The Game.” He is an Academy Award-winning actor and producer, an Emmy winner, and the recipient of multiple Golden Globes. In this episode, he discusses the third and final season of “The Kominsky Method;" his onscreen chemistry with Kathleen Turner, his co-star across the decades; and why he had no trepidation in taking on a show that has been fearless, heartfelt, and hilarious in tackling the realities of aging.

Across two seasons of “The Crown,” Josh O’Connor has delivered a critically acclaimed and award-winning performance as Prince Charles. In this interview, the young Brit discusses his nuanced and complex portrayal of the future King, and he shares his initial reservations about taking on the role. He talks about the care he took to avoid mimicry; his rapport with co-star Emma Corrin, who plays Princess Diana; and how he thought about the distinct shift in the way the audience relates to Charles between the two seasons. O’Connor also reflects on the course of his career to date, including his drama school years, his breakout role in “God’s Own Country,” and his latest projects, which include “Romeo and Juliet.” And he shares why supporting the mental health charity Mind is so important to him.

British breakout Jessie Mei Li joins Present Company to discuss “Shadow and Bone,” the phenomenon based on Leigh Bardugo’s best-selling fantasy series, in which the 25 year-old stars as Alina Starkov, an orphan mapmaker with an extraordinary power. Jessie discusses how the show first came to her, how her personal experiences helped her relate to the character, and her onscreen chemistry with co-star Archie Renaux. She also talks about how her acting instincts have helped her navigate challenging moments in her life, and how her parents are handling the show’s success.

At 26 years-old, Kelvin Harrison Jr. has already delivered a series of critically lauded, commanding performances, in films like “Luce,” for which he was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award, “Waves, and “The Trial of the Chicago Seven.” In this episode, he discusses “Monster,” a film based on the acclaimed book by Walter Dean Myers, and directed by Anthony Mandler, the celebrated music video director who has worked with stars like Rihanna and Beyonce. Harrison Jr. plays Steve Harmon, a seventeen-year-old honor student whose world comes crashing down when he is charged with felony murder. Harrison Jr. talks about how the film first came to him, how he connected to his character, and he shares his experiences working with the cast that includes Jeffrey Wright, Jennifer Hudson, John David Washington, A$AP Rocky, and Nas. He also shares his advice for young actors trying to make their own way.

In this episode, Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer sit down to discuss their new action comedy “Thunder Force,” in which the duo suit up as superheroes. Written and directed by Ben Falcone, who also happens to be McCarthy’s husband as well as her fellow producer on the project, the cast includes Jason Bateman, Bobby Cannavale, Pom Klementieff, and the brilliant newcomer Taylor Mosby. At the center of the film, is a heartfelt story about two women and the kind of friendship that lasts a lifetime, a theme with special resonance for McCarthy and Spencer who have been friends for more than two decades. They talk about the history of that friendship, the joys of working together, how it felt to put on those suits for the first time, the best part of being a superhero (and the more disgusting challenges), and they share their advice for the next generation of Hollywood hopefuls.

Jennifer Garner joins the show to discuss “Yes Day,” the hit family comedy based on the book by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, directed by Miguel Arteta, and co-starring Edgar Ramirez. Garner, who is also a producer on the movie, talks about the Yes Days she does with her own children, why she wanted to beckon loveliness into her life, and her terror at shooting the rollercoaster scene. She also reflects on the remarkable arc of her career, which has seen her find success across almost every genre, from “Alias” and “Daredevil” to “13 Going on 30” and “Dallas Buyers Club.” And she talks about her passion for causes and projects far beyond Hollywood, including Save the Children and her organic food company Once Upon a Farm.

Eve Hewson joins host Krista Smith to discuss “Behind Her Eyes,” the mind-bending limited series created by Steve Lightfoot and based on the novel by Sarah Pinborough, which has transfixed and shocked its legion of fans. Hewson discusses how she came to the role, what she found most challenging, and she shares her own experience with astral projection. The actress, whose star has steadily risen thanks to performances in such shows as “The Knick” and “The Luminaries,” also discusses her career path to date, why formal acting training was so important to her, and she shares what she’s learned from working with Hollywood greats like Steven Soderbergh and Steven Spielberg.

Over the course of her 33 year career, Viola Davis’ body of work has been celebrated from stage to screen, making her an Oscar winner, a Tony winner, and an Emmy winner, to name just a few of her accolades. She also runs JuVee Productions alongside husband Julius Tennon, and she’s a philanthropist and a leader in the Hollywood community. In this interview, Davis discusses her latest acclaimed performance in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” based on the play by August Wilson and directed by George C. Wolfe. She talks about the fears she faced in embracing the role, how she prepared to play Ma, and her experience working with Chadwick Boseman. She also reflects on the arc of her career, the significance of playing Annalise Keating in “How to Get Away with Murder,” how her definition of success has evolved over time, and she shares her advice for the next generation pursuing a life in the arts.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas joins the show from London to discuss her latest feature film “The White Tiger," written and directed by Ramin Bahrani and based on the New York Times bestseller and 2008 Man Booker Prize-winning novel. In addition to starring in the film, Chopra Jonas serves as an Executive Producer. Having established herself as a hugely successful and acclaimed star in the Indian film industry, Chopra Jonas turned her sights to Hollywood and became the first Indian-born actor ever to lead an American network TV series, starring in the ABC dramatic series "Quantico." In this interview, she talks about that extraordinary career arc, and she explains why she was so passionate about being involved with “The White Tiger,” and how the film aligned with her mission as a producer. She also talks about the confidence instilled in her by her upbringing, her long-time commitment to philanthropic endeavors, and the support and partnership of husband Nick Jonas.

Emma Corrin’s acting career had only just begun when she landed the role of Princess Diana in The Crown, and prepared to play one of the most iconic and scrutinized women of the modern age. The young British breakout more than met the challenge, capturing Diana’s innate vulnerability and quiet strength, mastering her posture and mannerisms, and even the lilt of her voice. In this interview, Corrin discusses her nail-biting audition process, her intensive research and preparation, and her favorite and most challenging scenes. She’ll also share her advice for actors starting out, including how important it is to move beyond the fear of rejection and to keep your faith and determination.

Academy Award winner Gary Oldman joins the show to discuss his extraordinary performance in David Fincher’s new film “Mank,” which was written by the auteur’s late father Jack Fincher. Oldman plays Herman J. Mankiewicz, otherwise known as Mank, the celebrated screenwriter who worked on everything from “The Wizard of Oz” to Marx Brothers comedies and co-wrote “Citizen Kane” with Orson Welles. In this interview, Oldman shares his initial reaction to the project, why he was daunted by Fincher’s directive not to transform physically for the role, and how his own experience with alcoholism informed his performance. He also discusses his deep admiration for Fincher’s approach to the work. And he shares his advice for young actors coming up in the profession today.

Vanessa Kirby joins the show to discuss her haunting portrayal of a young mother who experiences an unfathomable loss in “Pieces of a Woman,” directed by Kornél Mundruczó and written by Kata Wéber. The role marks Kirby’s first lead in a feature film, and her performance was awarded the Best Actress Volpi Cup at this year’s Venice Film Festival. Kirby began her career in the theater, later made her television debut in “The Hours,” delivered scene-stealing work in the action franchises “Mission Impossible” and “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw,” and her critically acclaimed performance as Princess Margaret in “The Crown” made her a BAFTA winner and Emmy nominee. In this interview, she shares the intensive research she undertook to prepare for “Pieces of a Woman,” what she was focused on getting right in her performance, and her experience shooting the film’s astonishing 23 minute opening sequence that was shot in one take. She also reflects on the beginning of her career, the kind of characters she’s been drawn to, and she shares her advice for young actors.

George Clooney joins the show to discuss his latest film “The Midnight Sky,” based on the novel “Good Morning, Midnight” by Lily Brooks-Dalton, and produced by Clooney’s longtime collaborator Grant Heslov. The film tells the story of the aftermath of a global catastrophe and a lone scientist in the arctic racing to contact a crew of astronauts and warn them not to return to earth. Clooney directs and produces as well as stars alongside Felicity Jones, David Oyelowo, Tiffany Boone, Demián Bichir, Kyle Chandler, and newcomer Caoilinn Springall. The Academy Award winner also reflects on the arc of his career, including the moment that "ER" made him a household name, the films that made him want to direct, and how becoming a family man has impacted his choices. He also shares his advice for young creatives coming

Aaron Sorkin, one of Hollywood's most celebrated storytellers, and the writer and director of this year's "The Trial of the Chicago 7,” joins the show to reflect on the journey of his career. He discusses his singular talent for dialogue, what draws him to a story, his affinity for a courtroom scene, and why he still feels vulnerable despite all of his success. He also talks about the influence of legendary screenwriter William Goldman, as well as the debates around his family’s dinner table, and his passion for teaching. And he explains why he thinks of “A Few Good Men” the same way he thinks about his high school yearbook picture.

Lily Collins joins the show to discuss her performance in David Fincher's new film, “Mank,” in which she plays Rita Alexander, secretary to the legendary screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz (played by Gary Oldman) as he writes the script for “Citizen Kane.” She talks about the intense audition process, her experience on set, and her love for old Hollywood movies. Collins also talks about the phenomenon that is her new show “Emily in Paris,” and how she flew back and forth from Paris to shoot “Mank” in tandem. She reflects back on the beginnings of her career path, from being a student majoring in broadcast journalism at the University of Southern California, to being cast in “The Blind Side," to writing a bestselling book and opening up about her personal struggles. She also shares how 2020 has been a pivotal year for her (she recently got engaged), and the advice she would go back and give her young self.

Throughout her career, Amanda Seyfried’s range has been center stage, from her roles in "Mean Girls” to “Lovelace” and “Les Miserables.” And in her latest film “Mank,” directed by David Fincher, she scales new heights, delivering a revelatory performance as actress Marion Davies, the long-term lover of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. In this interview, Seyfried discusses her research for the role, what she wanted to make sure she captured about Marion, and why she particularly relished a pivotal scene where Marion’s emotions play out entirely on her face. She also shares why working with Fincher is such a singular experience and how it’s made her think differently about her own approach to the work.

Six-time Academy Award nominee Amy Adams joins the show to discuss her latest film “Hillbilly Elegy,” based on the bestselling memoir by J.D. Vance, and directed by Academy Award winner Ron Howard. It’s the story of three generations of an Appalachian family struggling with volatile relationships, poverty, and drug addiction; and Adams delivers a powerhouse performance as J.D.’s mother Beverly. In this interview, Adams talks about why she was drawn to this story, her preparation for the role, what it was like collaborating with the cast (including Glenn Close who plays the family’s formidable matriarch), and the responsibility she felt playing a real person. She also reflects on the arc of her career, receiving her first Oscar nomination, and maintaining a private life beyond the spotlight.

Actress, comedian, author, and podcaster Michelle Buteau joins the show to discuss her uproarious new Netflix special: “Michelle Buteau: Welcome to Buteaupia.” The mom of twins has been on a non-stop run of projects lately, hosting and narrating the reality show phenomenon “The Circle,” appearing in films like “Always Be My Maybe” and on shows like “First Wives Club” and “Tales of the City.” "Survival of the Thickest," her debut book of essays, will be published this December. In this interview, Buteau takes us back to the very beginning of her comedy career and talks about the headwinds she’s faced along the way. She reveals when she feels most vulnerable on stage, how her parents felt about her pursuing her passion, and some of the unsolicited advice she’s received from her audiences. Buteau also shares her advice for young comedians starting out, and what she’s learned by observing the extraordinary group of women she’s worked with in her career to date.

Millie Bobby Brown sat down with Present Company to discuss her latest Netflix project, “Enola Holmes,” in which she plays the intrepid teenage sister of Sherlock Holmes. Brown not only stars in the film but also produces, making her one of the youngest Hollywood actors to have a producing credit on a feature film. In this interview, Brown talks about why she was so passionate about playing Enola, what she found most rewarding about producing, and why she loves working on projects that have a broader message. She also discusses her work with UNICEF and shares her advice for young people who are pursuing their own path.

Emmy-winning actress Sarah Paulson joins the show to discuss her riveting new drama series “Ratched,” created by Ryan Murphy, her long-time champion, and Ian Brennan. As the show’s lead, Paulson steps into the shoes of one of the most notorious female villains of the modern age: Nurse Ratched of the novel and then the film, “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. In this interview, Paulson talks about the trepidation she had in taking on such an iconic role, and she discusses the evolution of her relationship with Ryan Murphy. She reflects on the journey of the career, from her early struggles when she first moved to Los Angeles, to taking on the life-changing role of Marcia Clark in “The People vs. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story,” and stepping up as an Executive Producer on “Ratched.” She also shares her advice for young actors, and talks about her legendary fashion game.

Tom Pelphrey joins the show to talk about his much-discussed performance as Ben, brother to Laura Linney’s Wendy Byrde, on season three of “Ozark.” Pelphrey devoted himself to the task of playing a man living with bipolar disorder, working to ensure the condition was portrayed with both accuracy and thoughtfulness. Born and raised in New Jersey, the Rutgers graduate got his break on the soap opera “Guiding Light,” for which he won two Daytime Emmys, and since then he has worked across film, theater and television. But 2020 is proving a remarkable year, not only on account of the acclaim he’s received for “Ozark,” but also because this fall he’ll be seen in director David Fincher’s “Mank,” which stars Gary Oldman. In this interview, Pelphey talks about the “invisible magic” of the Ozark set and what it was like being the new kid joining the show. He also shares what he learned working in soap operas, his experience working with David Fincher, and his profound advice for young actors.

As an Academy-Award winning actress, producer of critically acclaimed film and television, long-time activist, and single mom, Charlize Theron has helped reinvent what the model of success can look like for women in Hollywood. And with her relentless work ethic, eye for challenging material, and willingness to commit to radical physical transformations, she’s created a remarkable gallery of performances, from “Monster” to “Tully,” “Mad Max: Fury Road” to “Bombshell.” In this interview, Theron discusses her new Netflix film “The Old Guard,” directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, and she reflects on some of the choices that have defined her career. She talks about why she relishes the work of being a producer, how fear has been a powerful driving force, why she feels an element of surprise in her films is key, and the importance of never giving up too easily.

The documentary series “Lenox Hill,” directed by Ruthie Shatz and Adi Barash, has captivated viewers with its intimate portrait of four doctors dealing with a host of complex personal and professional issues inside a New York City hospital. One of those doctors, Amanda Little-Richardson, a Chief Resident in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the time of filming, joins the show to reflect on the impact the series has had on viewers. She discusses the importance of diversity in medicine, the challenges she's faced as a woman of color pursuing a medical career, and how the support of her parents and her husband Kevin has been invaluable. She also updates listeners on her new life in California and her 16 month-old daughter, Ava Rose.

Shira Haas joins the show to discuss her astonishing performance in “Unorthodox,” the Netflix original limited series about a young woman from the Hasidic community in Williamsburg, Brooklyn who breaks out of her arranged marriage and travels to Berlin to find herself. Directed by Maria Schrader, created by Anna Winger and Alexa Karolinski, and inspired by Deborah Feldman's bestseller of the same name, “Unorthodox” has captured the imagination of viewers around the world. At 25 years old, Haas is a well-established actress back home in Israel, where she landed her first lead film role at just 16. In the course of her young career, she has already received four nominations for the Israeli Academy Awards, winning Best Supporting Actress for the film “Noble Savage.” Her work in international film began with her performance in Natalie Portman’s directorial debut “A Tale of Love and Darkness” and “The Zookeeper’s Wife,” directed by Niki Caro. In this interview, Haas talks about how she got her start, how she approaches her work, and her preparation for “Unorthodox,” which included learning Yiddish. She also talks about how she’s navigated the ups and downs of the acting life, how she decompresses between roles, and why she particularly loves the challenge of conveying emotion in scenes with less dialogue.

Over the course of three decades, Laura Linney’s body of work has spanned the worlds of theater, film, and television, resulting in a long list of accolades, including Tony, Oscar, and Emmy nominations, as well four Emmy wins. Her vast range of choices means fans might cite any number of projects when they approach her — some are Broadway aficionados who loved her performance in “The Little Foxes” or “My Name Is Lucy Barton,” others cite “You Can Count on Me” or “The Savages,” or they might reference series like “John Adams” or “The Big C.” And then there are the legions of “Ozark” fans. In this episode, Linney discusses the latest season of “Ozark,” and the evolution of her character Wendy from soccer mom to “Wolf Bitch.” She also reflects on the arc of her career, the choices that have served her well, and the spirit that she brings to her work. And she discusses growing up in New York, working with the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, as well as the enduring charm of “Love Actually.” This interview was recorded on Thursday, May 7

In the decade that “Friends” was on the air, from 1994-2004, Lisa Kudrow experienced the heights of fame and success that come with starring in a smash-hit show with legions of fans worldwide. But Kudrow’s boundless curiosity and creative instincts have led her far beyond the world of the show, to writing and producing, and starring in independent films. In the course of her career, she has created a gallery of complex, original, captivating women, from Phoebe Buffay in “Friends” to Valerie Cherish in “The Comeback,” Fiona Wallice in “Web Therapy,” and Lucia DeLury in “The Opposite of Sex.” Kudrow joins the show to discuss “Space Force,” the new Netflix comedy series co-created by Steve Carell (who also stars) and Greg Daniels, about a four-star general being tapped to form a sixth branch of the US Armed Forces. Kudrow also discusses what it was like to be an actress in the nineties, why she’s never precious about her writing, handling setbacks, and her relationship to success.

Kumail Nanjiani joins the show fresh off the success of his new hit movie “The Lovebirds,” the romantic comedy in which he stars opposite Issa Rae. It’s been a remarkable decade for the actor, comedian, screenwriter and podcaster. He’s appeared on some of the most beloved cult comedy shows in recent memory, from “Portlandia” to “Inside Amy Schumer,” “Community” and “Key & Peele,” and he starred in the hit show “Silicon Valley.” He became an Oscar nominee, alongside his wife Emily V. Gordon, for “The Big Sick,” the critically acclaimed film based on their personal story. And he received an Emmy nomination for his performance on Jordan Peele’s reboot of “The Twilight Zone.” In this conversation, Nanjiani reflects on the pivotal moments in his career, what it was like starting his stand-up career right before September 11th, his advice on handling failure, and the importance of having trust with your directors. He also talks about working with Issa Rae, getting obsessive over his workout regimen, and how his relationship with social media has changed.

David Letterman joins the show and reflects back on his early career and explains why he thinks the high time for the art of comedy is now. He discusses family and fatherhood, the cost of success, and how he dealt with his depression. He also talks about “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction,” his Netflix series for which he has interviewed everyone from Jay Z to Howard Stern. And he shares a surprising obsession, who he’d love to do a Freaky Friday life swap with, and his thoughts on whether comedians can ever really be friends.

As an actor, writer, and Emmy-winning comedian, Patton Oswalt has created a vast body of work, from his stand-up specials and best-selling books, to his work in television and film, including acclaimed performances in movies as varied as “Young Adult” and “Ratatouille.” In this episode, Oswalt talks about his new stand-up special “Patton Oswalt: I Love Everything.” He also reflects on his childhood, the early days of his career, and the moment that first felt like success. He discusses how dealing with professional set-backs gets easier as you get older, the importance of sustaining the impulse to create new things, and why he’s drawn to producing and directing. Plus, the cinephile shares the films he’s re-watching while he’s sheltering in place.

It took Jon Hamm ten years of hard work in Hollywood before he got “Mad Men” and made not only his character Don Draper but also himself a household name. Since then, he’s shifted effortlessly between drama, with films like “Beirut” and “The Report,” and comedy, guest-starring in shows like “30 Rock” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” and hosting SNL three times.In this interview, he shares how he discovered his love of acting as a child, how he felt when he first arrived in Los Angeles, and the advice he has for others trying to make it. He talks about working with Tina Fey, how he’s always been rewarded by his enthusiasm, and he reveals the one item he kept from the “Mad Men” set.Hamm also discusses the new interactive special, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs The Reverend,” in which he reprises his role as Reverend Richard Wayne Gary Wayne. Plus, the life long sports fan talks about how he’s keeping himself occupied white sheltering in place at home.

Rashida Jones joins the show to discuss her new comedy series #blackAF from Kenya Barris, the creator of "Black-ish” and "grown-ish." In this series, based upon his life, Kenya and Rashida play a husband and wife with 6 children, navigating relationships, race, and culture, as well as newfound success. As an actress, writer, producer, and director, Jones' career has run the gamut, from roles in television smash hits like “Parks & Recreation” and “The Office,” to feature films like “Social Network," "I Love You, Man,” and "Celeste and Jesse Forever,” to the world of animation. She’s also found success in documentaries, exploring the world of pornography in “Hot Girls Wanted,” and co-writing and co-directing “Quincy,” about her father, the music legend Quincy Jones.