Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso

After making the rounds on the festival circuit for nearly a year, director Chloé Zhao's sophomore feature, The Rider, is finally in theaters. Shot on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, the film follows a cowboy who, after a serious injury, is forced to reconcile with a future that might not involve horseback riding. According to Chloé, a Chinese filmmaker who attended NYU before debuting with Songs My Brother Taught Me, the film is a meditation during a time when audiences have trouble sitting still. This is one of the dozens of fascinating points she casually drops on Sam during this week's episode, during which the two talk about everything from working with Spike Lee to Chloé's fanfic-writing secret identity to the surprisingly freeing feeling of hitting rock bottom. http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So look: I lost an interview. This doesn't normally happen. In fact, in my nine years of recording conversations...it never has. The talk in question with the wonderful Heather Christian, a musician and composer based out of New York. But it's vanished. So instead of having no show, we're doing this show: an entire program dedicated to losing things with Heather, my father, and my best friend. It's unusual, but then again what isn't on this show? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

According to Michael Imperioli, acting is all about showing up prepared and positive. Lucky for us, that's something he's been doing on-screen for close to thirty years. Raised in New York by supportive, hardworking parents who also doubled as local actors, Michael broke out on the film scene in 1990 with a role in Martin Scorsese's classic, GoodFellas. He appeared in many memorable films of the '90s, but would ultimately become most known for his career-making role as Christopher Moltisanti on another crime saga--The Sopranos. Good-natured and open, Michael sits down with Sam this week to discuss his enduring marriage, his relationship with his father, the nerves that plagued him early in his career, and his time on the sets of Malcolm X, The Basketball Diaries, and of course, The Sopranos. http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jay Duplass is a busy guy. Often alongside his younger brother Mark, Jay has left his distinct signature on dozens of projects over the past two decades, proving through his prolific yet singular work that the indie film spirit is still alive and well in America. Whether he’s acting, directing, writing, or producing, Jay is always creating art that’s imbued with a sense of unvarnished honesty. Movie fans since childhood, the Duplass brothers created a handful of short films before breaking onto the festival scene with The Puffy Chair in 2005. Since then, Jay has brought us films like Cyrus, Jeff Who Lives at Home, and the upcoming Outside In, as well the short-lived HBO series Togetherness. This week, he and Sam cover everything from how it felt to love movies pre-internet to the myths surrounding the Duplass brothers, as well as the spontaneity necessary for good filmmaking, and of course, the particular strangeness of being known to the public. http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Unless you've lived without a TV for the past decade or so, you probably recognize Josh Radnor. The actor--who is also a skilled writer, director, and musician--has been immortalized in the eyes of the public as Ted Mosby, the goofy and hyper-romantic protagonist of the hit series How I Met Your Mother, which ran on CBS from 2005 to 2014. In real life, though, Josh will be the first to tell you that in many ways, he and his fictional counterpart are worlds apart. When Josh sits down with Sam to track his life and career--from realizing in high school that performance was his solution to insecurity, to bringing two feature films to Sundance, to his new series Rise and his musical career with Ben Lee--the impression we're left with is one of determination and deliberation. Josh is brimming with insights from friends, artists, and his own experiences as he and Sam discuss periods of his life during which his dreams were tested, his success complicated, and his interests ever-changing. http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Talk Easy returns! Actress Alia Shawkat is on the show this week. We talk growing up on the television, the success of Search Party, and how the #MeToo movement is getting increasingly complex. http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With the year coming to a close, Sam (literally) calls on past guests of the show to deliver some hope. Including: Janicza Bravo talking Kahlil Joseph’s Shadow Play at the New Museum; Jon Daly wishing to be friends with the Obamas; Lena Waithe getting engaged; Anna Sale adoring Search Party; Martin Starr being proud of his “Big Sick” friends; Noel Wells falling in love with Lady Bird; AO Scott delivering a Paul Thomas Anderson symposium; Jelani Cobb unable to get Jordan Peele out of his mind. Oh, and Mom makes a reappearance. Happy holidays everyone. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sean Baker is a writer/director known primarily for the Prince of Broadway, Tangerine, and, most recently, The Florida Project. In this week’s episode, Sam and Sean dive into his upbringing in New Jersey, the difficulty of making movies on a low-budget, and why he stands by the heavily debated ending of his latest project. http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The inimitable Lois Smith has lived a full and exciting life, beginning in Kansas in 1930 and leading her to where she is today, acting in films like Marjorie Prime and Lady Bird at the age of 87. Lois studied theater at the University of Washington, got married at the age of 18, moved to New York with her husband, and has acted on stage and screen ever since. In this episode, she and Sam spend a peaceful hour discussing all of these milestones, along with Lois' first job in the Broadway play Time Out With Ginger, her LIFE magazine cover in 1955, her mindset when it comes to promoting films, and some wisdom from her character in Minority Report. http://talkeasypod.com/artist/lois-smith/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Sam sits down with comedian, actor, and TV writer Paul F. Tompkins. Paul is a longtime standup comic who has appeared in everything from Mr. Show with Bob and David to two Paul Thomas Anderson films--more on both of those in the episode. Besides his prolific standup career, Paul's current projects include roles on Bob's Burgers and Bojack Horseman and a podcast hosting gig of his own. Here, he and Sam talk about his early dream of being a household name, the ways he's changed since his first stand-up special, the all-encompassing weight of his parents' unhealthy marriage, and everyone's odd habit of reading into the way he dresses. http://talkeasypod.com/ \ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rory Scovel has been on the stand-up scene for more than ten years, from his early days spent doubling as a “desktop support specialist” in Washington D.C., to this year’s Netflix special, Rory Scovel Tries Stand-Up for the First Time. When he’s not on an endless Kerouac-esque comedy tour across America, Rory is guesting on shows and podcasts with comedians like Pete Holmes and Chris Hardwicke, and acting on hilarious, under-the-radar shows like Those Who Can’t and Zach Stone is Gonna Be Famous. Here, he and Sam talk about the importance of getting justice for victims of sexual misconduct, Rory’s most absurd and unplanned comedy bits, the evolving end goals for stand-up comedians, and losing his mom at a very young age. http://www.talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joachim Trier is a Norweigan filmmaker who has so far directed four feature films, including the English language family drama Louder than Bombs and his newest project, Thelma, an intense thriller that was selected to represent Norway in this year's competition for Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars. As Sam points out, each of these films is incredibly different than one another, a deliberate creative choice on Joachim's part. Through the course of this conversation, Joachim's attention to and care for the craft of filmmaking become abundantly clear. Listen as he and Sam discuss his life and career at length, including Joachim's childhood spent illegally skateboarding (9:45), his feelings of both pride and disappointment in his work (14:05), his love for the surprising films of Wong Kar-wai (23:31), the tricky balance of maintaining relationships as a filmmaker (29:18), and the importance of adding new voices to the film industry (37:35). http://talkeasypod.com/artist/joachim-trier/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Early this year, Sam and actress Noël Wells recorded an episode of Talk Easy at Sundance. Days after the presidential inauguration and in the midst of festival chaos, it was a strange time for both of them, but the resulting conversation was thought-provoking and lovely. Now Noël’s back at a different moment of her life–debuting Mr. Roosevelt, her first feature as director, writer, and lead actress–for another round of thoughtful conversation. Here, she and Sam talk about parallels between Mr. Roosevelt and Noël’s past (6:30), her years spent as a self-proclaimed try-hard (13:15), the online-comment-obsessed culture of SNL (26:20), the nuance of discussing sexual misconduct in Hollywood (30:50), and more. http://talkeasypod.com/artist/noel-wells-returns/ See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Since the late '90s, director Miguel Arteta has worked in film and television to bring us multilayered comedic movies like Chuck & Buck and Youth in Revolt, as well as episodes of acclaimed shows like Six Feet Under, Freaks & Geeks, and Enlightened. This year saw the release of his latest feature, Beatriz at Dinner, a topical story of a tense dinner party between an earthy, socially conscious woman and a group of privileged corporate bigwigs. Over the course of the hour, Miguel speaks with Sam about making these and other films, focusing on physical and emotional health, righteous generational anger, and his memories of some favorite collaborators, including the late friend and filmmaker Jonathan Demme. http://www.talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

His whole adult life, Shea Serrano's worked hard. Not just at one thing, but at everything he's done, from chronic pool-playing and highly-calculated games of Texas hold 'em in college, to teaching middle school for eight years at an underserved school in Houston. Here, he talks to Sam about all of this, as well as how the work he did to pay the bills ultimately led him to writing. Shea has written for Grantland and The Ringer, and has authored three multimedia books, including a New York Times bestseller. With a no-bullshit attitude and plenty of motivating stories to share, Shea walks Sam through his major life events so far, including the first time he realized he was at a disadvantage, the complications he and his wife faced with the birth their twins, and the moment he finally figured out what makes a good dad. More info: www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jen Yamato is an internet-era journalist working at one of the last print news institutions in America, The LA Times. That in itself is interesting, but it's only the latest step in a career that's also included time spent working at Rotten Tomatoes, Deadline, Movieline, and The Daily Beast. This week, after warning us that she's a Gemini, Jen talks with Sam about the best year of her life (age 17), changes she's witnessed to the journalism landscape, and the recent spate of sexual misconduct accusations shaking the film industry. http://www.talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Sam sits down with friend, comedian, and writer Jon Daly. Along with appearing as a regular at the improv institution Upright Citizens Brigade, Jon's taken on comedic roles in dozens of shows and movies over the past fifteen years. Jon's had roles in feature films like The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and Janicza Bravo's Lemon, and can be seen in episodes of Kroll Show, Comedy Bang! Bang!, and basically anything on TV that's equal parts funny and bizarre. Here, he and Sam talk about everything from celebrity AA to Martin Lawrence's hype man, before getting real about the lifelong struggle for openness and self-knowledge. Wesbite: http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For over thirty years, Willem Dafoe has been putting in hard work on stage and screen, and it’s paid off. Starting in 1980 with Heaven’s Gate, a movie that he was mostly cut from during editing, he went on to take memorable roles in a wide range of films that include Platoon, The English Patient, Shadow of a Vampire, and Spider-Man. Most recently, he’s starring in The Florida Project, a film by Sean Baker that premiered to acclaim at last month’s Toronto Film Festival. Willem sits down this week to talk to Sam about his career, his appreciation for outsiders, and the tricky balancing act of maintaining privacy as a public figure. Website: http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, CEO, author, and nationally recognized doula Erica Chidi Cohen joins Sam on the show. Erica is known for taking a whole-self, support-based approach to pregnancy and parenting, first through her solo doula practice and soon through her upcoming LA-based reproductive wellness center, LOOM. She's knowledgeable, upbeat, and always open to discuss the nuances of her profession. Here she talks to Sam about her unique upbringing in South Africa, her career spent helping families, and keeping it real about the childbirth experience. Website: http://talkeasypod.com/ Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Giancarlo Esposito started performing at age 8. Now nearing 60, the signature character actor is reflecting on a lifetime of work. From his collaborations with Spike Lee (“School Daze”, “Do the Right Thing”) to playing the terrifying Gustavo “Gus” Fring on “Breaking Bad”. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. www.dylanpeck.com Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Heather Havrilesky is the author of “How to Be a Person in the World”, a collection of essays from her hit Ask Polly column in New York Magazine. In her writing, Heather has an ability to hear and see people in a way that feels selfless and genuine. In this week's episode, Sam and Heather try to do same for one another. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. www.dylanpeck.com Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TV titan Norman Lear joins Sam on the show this week. The 95-year-old is chiefly responsible for changing television. His shows—All in the Family, Maude, The Jeffersons, Good Times—were unlike anything that came before them. Political, combative, funny. Lear’s greatest gift is his endless curiosity in the imperfection of humans. Especially Americans. When Sam and Norman sat down, they discussed his remarkable life, one story at a time. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. www.dylanpeck.com Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For over thirty years, Fred Melamed has been a true Character Actor. He’s starred in seven Woody Allen movies, played Sy Ableman in the Coen Brothers’ “A Serious Man”, and has made appearances on Curb Your Enthusiasm, 30 Rock, House of Lies. He’s most recently in Janicza Bravo’s dazzling debut feature, Lemon. If you perhaps don’t recognize Fred by name, you’ve certainly heard his iconic, booming voice. On this week’s show, Sam and Fred walk through the actor’s life. Stay tuned. It’s a good one. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. https://www.dylanpeck.com/ Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amber Navran is the lead vocalist of "Moonchild", a neo-soul group out of Los Angeles. With their third record out in stores, Amber came on the show to discuss her musical influences, performing with Stevie Wonder, and what it looks like to be a working musician in 2017. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rostam Batmanglij was first introduced to us through his band Vampire Weekend. The music was infectious and seemed to be the soundtrack of every New England college campus for the many following years. Rostam was the producer for the band--the person blending the different influences together and packaging it into something unheard. Now, he is about to release his first solo record and it is even more fresh than what we have heard in the past. In this interview he and Sam talk about this record and what Rostam is trying to say with it. All this and more. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Doreen St. Félix is only 25 but she has made a name for herself in the New York media scene. After graduating from Brown she started her career at "Lenny Letter", Lena Dunham and Jenni Konner's digital, feminist publication. While doing this, she was also freelancing for places like Pitchfork, New York Magazine, and The Fader. Now, she is a contracted writer with the New Yorker (at only 25!). She and Sam talk about her successes, today's media scene, and how she really loves the show Chopped. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Robert Downey Sr. (also known as "The Prince") is known for giving a candid response. Throughout all of the films he has directed he has never been afraid to poke fun at the establishment--little is off limits. This is not to say that he isn't a thoughtful person, though. In this interview the Prince tells Sam about his days in the army (12:40), his early days of filmmaking (28:37), and some of his regrets (49:30). Also, a side note: it was a very hot day when Sam and Robert Downey Sr. sat down to talk, so you can hear the hum of the AC in the recording a bit. Conversation is just as good, though. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jelani Cobb has a clarity about his life and what he intends to do with it--combine journalism and history. Known for his writing on America and its relationship to race, Jelani's work is crucial to understanding America in its past and present self. Throughout this conversation Jelani's clarity on who he is and what he wanted to do is apparent. In this conversation he and Sam talk about his dreams, family life (4:00), working with David Carr (45:30), and the modern political climate (1:07:35). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jenny Slate exudes honesty and feeling, her deep self knowledge is captivating. And this honesty comes through in the work that she does. Whether it's a film about a unexpected pregnancy or feeling stable in a stagnant relationship, the characters she plays have an emotional depth that is rare to see on screen. In this interview she and Sam talk about the types of projects she wants to be a part of (4:30), an intensely bad date (29:55), and the beautiful and clear vision she has for herself in three years (58:40). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A.O. Scott--also known by his nickname, Tony--is one of the two chief film critics for New York Times. However, he is also a journalist, author, and former television show host. In this interview he and Sam begin with the controversial NYT "The 25 Best Films of the 21st Century So Far" list that he and Manohla Dargis authored together. Then they dive into the TV vs. Movies debate, the state of film criticism, a peculiar "Wonder Woman" review, and a lot more. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Malcolm Gladwell is a writer best known for his books Blink, The Tipping Point, and David and Goliath. While what he writes about can at points stir up controversy for oversimplification and grandiosity, Gladwell has an infectious curiosity about our world that is far greater than his flaws. On the heels of season 2 of Revisionist History, Malcolm and Sam not only discuss this curiosity, but also their affinity for flip-flopping, how ideas can be fun, the danger of David becoming Goliath, and why, at 53, Malcolm has no fear of failure. Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Patricia Lockwood is a fearless writer and poet. In 2013 she gained popular attention with her piece in The Awl entitled "The Rape Joke." Since then she has established a name for herself, especially through her Twitter. However, she does not restrict herself to 140 characters--her new book "Priestdaddy" is a memoir of her life growing up as the daughter of one of the only married Catholic priests. Naturally, this unique upbringing paired with Patricia's skill with words makes for a great read. In this interview she and Sam dive more into her life growing up, her writing process, and her love of sarcasm. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lena Waithe has been making waves in Hollywood since she arrived in 2006 from Chicago — you just didn’t know it. Although a writer at heart, Waithe has also learned how to do just about everything else in this industry. She produced Dear White People (the movie), has a role in Steve Spielberg’s next film, and, oh, yeah, created an upcoming Showtime drama called The Chi, due later this year. Most recently, you've probably seen her breaking barriers (and hearts) as Denise in Aziz Ansari's hit Netflix show, "Master of None". Vying for Emmy consideration this fall, Waithe has done a fair bit of interviews in recent months. Just not one like this. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show is by Dylan Peck. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For the last week of Talk Easy's spotlight on Stone's Throw Records, Sam sits down with up-and-coming musician Sudan Archives, whose real name is Brittany Parks. 22-year-old Sudan is a largely self-made artist who discovered a passion for instrumental music during her high school days. Sudan's journey to Stone's Throw is pretty remarkable: after noticing her ability to play by ear and honing her musical sense at the Midwest churches she grew up in, she moved to LA and began producing her songs on an iPad. In this episode, Sudan and Sam speak about all of this and more, including her upcoming EP and the Ghana-set music video for "Time." ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a continuation of the May series spotlighting Stones Throw Records, Sam sits down this week with Alexander Brettin, also known as Mild High Club. With two albums under his belt, 2015's Timeline and last year's Skiptracing, Alex has become skilled at making music that defies simple categorization--a local radio station once described his sound as "LA Slack Funk Psychedelia." In person, Alex is both complex and candid: he's eager to talk about his lifelong relationship with music, from Andrew Lloyd Webber to Sade, but admits he doesn't enjoy revisiting his own work. Over the course of the episode, he and Sam also touch on Alex's upbringing, his role at Stones Throw, and why he's not cut out to be a poster boy. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Sam continues the May spotlight on Stones Throw Records by sitting down with DJ J Rocc. J Rocc is the founding member of the The World Famous Beat Junkies, an influential west coast DJ crew formed in the early ‘90s. Rocc was one of the first to join Stone’s Throw Records, and here he speaks frequently, but good-naturedly, about the ever-changing music scene. Rocc will also be the first to tell you that he’s tried it all, which, according to him, in the ‘90s meant DJing, rapping, breakdancing and graffiti. When he’s not discussing growing up in Orange County and the early days of Stones Throw on Talk Easy, Rocc’s current projects include a Beat Junkies radio station and a DJ school. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with DJ and music producer Chris Manak, also known as Peanut Butter Wolf. Chris has been active in the music industry since the late '80s, and founded the LA-based independent record label @StonesThrow Records in 1996. For over 20 years, Chris' label has demonstrated a far-reaching taste in music, representing the many flavors of hip-hop alongside cross-genre and experimental acts. Aloe Blacc, Mayer Hawthorne, and Talk Easy alum Mndsgn are among the vast list of musicians on the Stones Throw roster. The first of a series spotlighting musicians from Stones Throw Records, this week's episode includes Sam and Chris discussing everything from Chris' musical influences while growing up (8:02), to the highs and lows of the evolving music industry (27:35), as well as his late friend and collaborator J Dilla (40:41). ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae. Many will remember Corinne from her 2006 break-out hit "Put Your Records On" which earned her three Grammy nominations. Both in her lyrics and conversation, the way in which Corinne expresses herself is deeply powerful. Shortly after being thrust into fame, Corinne experienced the unimaginable tragedy of losing her husband, Jason Rae. Life stood still for awhile. In time, though, she persevered. In recent years she's made two new excellent records: "The Sea" and "The Heart Speaks in Whispers". Corinne and Sam discuss both in this week's episode, along with her her love of music (8:07), the experience of losing her late husband(31:00),and falling in love, again (52:49). ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with actor Martin Starr. Starr got an early start to acting with his role as Bill Haverchuck on the cult-classic, Freaks and Geeks. After this he went on to star in Judd Apatow's Knocked Up and Superbad, and can now be seen on the hit HBO show Silicon Valley. Throughout all of his work, Martin has managed to execute the delicate balance between dry wit and empathy--both of which can be felt in this interview. In their conversation, he and Sam talk about his experience on Freaks and Geeks (13:08), his struggles with depression (17:52), Silicon Valley (44:03), and falling in love (1:03:30). ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with fellow podcaster, Anna Sale. Anna is the host of the superb podcast Death, Sex & Money which, in her words, is a show about, "things we think about a lot and need to talk about more." In this spirit, she and Sam talk about her life growing up in West Virginia (14:29), the learning experience that comes with being a new mother (40:02), and her deep appreciation for people and their stories (45:47). ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

To celebrate the fiftieth episode of Talk Easy we decided to do something a little different, which ended up being Sam sitting down with his mother for an interview. This episode is not only special for how far the show has come, but the glimpse it gives us into the lives of both Sam and his mother. The love and respect that Sam and his mom have for one another is blatant throughout the entirety of this episode, and we feel lucky to have caught it on tape. In this hour, we learn about her childhood (9:16), the experiences she had at the age Sam is now (17:53), meeting Sam's dad (43:06), and the joy she got from motherhood (54:05). ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode Sam sits down with director James Gray, and they dive deep into all aspects of the film industry. They start with the difficulty financing films (5:00). Then, they move onto how directing a movie is an inherent narcissistic endeavor (14:00). They also get into the importance of distribution (17:54), television and it's relationship to cinema (45:55), and the change in movies' role in pop culture (50:47). ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with comedian Andy Daly. Best known for his critically acclaimed show "Review," Andy's work is centered around a dark portrayal of earnestness. There is a disconnect between this darkness and Andy himself, however--outside of his work he is generally an optimist. In this interview he and Sam talk about his improv work at the Upright Citizens Brigade, how he was a horrible student, and behind the scenes of "Review." ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with director and actor, Alice Lowe. Known for going outside of the norm, Alice does not let people stand in her way--most noticeably, this can be seen in the fact that she directed and starred in her first movie in just eleven days...all while being seven months pregnant. She and Sam talk about her unconventionality to her desire to upend Hollywood's roles for women on screen. All of this and more. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's episode was recorded live at South by Southwest with emerging filmmaker, Janicza Bravo. Janicza's work has been described as "unpredictable" and "bizarre," however these descriptions overlook the nuances and empathy that she puts into her films. She frequently collaborates with her partner, Brett Gelman, who we had on the show back in January (January 17th, to be exact). In this interview Sam and Janicza talk about her burgeoning career as a feature-length director, the unique way she got her start as a filmmaker, and rooting for unlikable characters. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with singer-songwriter Brenton Wood. Throughout most of is career, Wood was cheated out of the money and rights to the songs he wrote. In this interview, he and Sam talk about this and how he's been able to remain happy throughout the years despite it all. Brenton's music is infectious and positive, as he is himself. Plus, you get to hear Sam sing with Brenton a bit--and they don't sound all that bad. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with renowned actor, Philip Baker Hall. Best known for his work with director Paul Thomas Anderson, Hall is a captivating presence on and off the screen. Sam and Philip talked for a long time and got into detail on so much of Philip's life. In this episode we learn more about his work with P.T.A., his falling out with Robert Altman, and his thoughts on death. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with fellow podcaster, Andrea Silenzi. She is the host of the electrifying Panoply show “Why Oh Why,” which explores the intricate worlds of love, relationships, and feminism. She and Sam delve into all of these topics in this conversation, dissecting the difference between behaviors of men and women in relationships, the pressures women face, and the fact that Sam is twenty two. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with director Roger Ross Williams. Williams started out by directing and producing for networks such as NBC, ABC, and CNN, then moved on to directing his own films. As you will hear in the show, Williams rejects settling in one's work and his passion comes through in everything that he does. He and Sam talk about his complex family life, learning how to show emotions, and much more. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week Sam sits down with cult-critic Andy Greenwald. Andy is best known for his writing at Grantland--however he has done a plethora of work outside of this, including his writing for Spin and being a published author. In this interview, Sam and Andy talk about his work while also delving into the personal. They talk about how he met his best friend Chris Ryan, reading TV Guide as a kid, and the act of constantly reevaluating one's life. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Vanilla and @jinsangbeats. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: www.krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at www.talkeasypod.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.