Shows
The MyndStories PodcastThe one with glimmersTell us what you feel. Message us. Have you heard of glimmers? They are the opposite of triggers. Glimmers are small moments of safety, joy, love, and contentment. This episode of Dear Mynd explores the sense of wonder essential to finding glimmers that help in enjoying a fuller life. It makes a case for holding on to a sense of wonder and awe and what it can bring to a person’s well-being. 'What the Dark Sounds Like’ is a charming look at the world from the eyes of a child. His ready accept...2024-01-2508 min
The Truth In This Art: Stories That MatterExploring Creativity: Krishna Bala Shenoi on Art, Illustration, and StorytellingKrishna Bala Shenoi is an artist and illustrator known for his work in children's books and as a portrait artist for the Talk Easy Pod with Sam Fragoso. He was born in Bangalore and raised in the United Arab Emirates. Krishna studied science in high school before pursuing his passion for art and attending college in Bangalore. He has since worked on numerous projects, including creating portraits for the Talk Easy Pod.Krishna shares his first experience with art and how he discovered his passion for illustration and children's books. He talks about his educational background...2023-03-1944 min
Sollu KaburzPodcast #11: Krishna Shenoi on Spielberg Letter, Roger Ebert and his Love for Arts || Sollu KaburzHost: Najeeb Guests: Krishna Bala Shenoi Language: English Krishna Bala Shenoi is an artist, illustrator, animator, film-maker, video editor and a writer from Bangalore. Listen to Krishna Bala Shenoi talk about his Spielberg Letter, Correspondence with Roger Ebert, art-career, Film making, Animation, favorite films and much more. Find Krishna Bala Shenoi's Social Media presence here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krishnabala...Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/krishnas...Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/krishnabalas...Amazon: https://www.amazon.in/Books-Krishna-B...2020-08-252h 22
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoTalk Easy Throwback: MomTo 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...2019-08-181h 17
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 134 - Live From Ebertfest! (With Richard Roeper, Rita Coburn Whack, And More)A very special episode for you live from Ebertfest 2019 in Champaign, Illinois. Rita Coburn Whack talks of her film "Maya Angelou, Still I Rise" and lets us in on the words of wisdom she learned from Angelou herself. Then, Sam brings out two of the festival's biggest stars. Lastly– Sam calls up the great writer and critic Richard Roeper to talk all things Ebert. Illustrations by Krishna Shenoi. Music by Dylan Peck. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omny...2019-04-2155 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 114 - DeRay MckessonThe death of Michael Brown changed DeRay Mckesson's life (9:21). It changed all of our lives. But it was the unjust murder of the 18-year-old Brown that propelled Mckesson into protest. With the release of his new book, On the Other Side of Freedom: The Case for Hope, the activist and author discusses early memories of the BLM movement (16:08), supporting Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election (20:22), the role of social media in contemporary politics (24:48), how he's navigates work and self-care (29:23), what he learned from running for Mayor of Baltimore (38:17), the criticism he's faced from fellow activists (40:46), and the hope he maintains...2018-10-2250 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 103 - Lauren Miller RogenFor the past 15 years Lauren Miller Rogen has had one dream: to write and direct a movie. With Like Father out this Friday (August 5th) on Netflix, she's done it. We run through her journey from Lakeland, Florida to Los Angeles, and her many creative pitstops along the way. The show is produced by Dylan Peck. Illustrations by Krishna Shenoi. Our show-notes can be found 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.2018-07-301h 04
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 71 - Giancarlo EspositoGiancarlo 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 informati2017-09-191h 16
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 70 - Heather HavrileskyHeather 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 o...2017-09-121h 21
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 69 - Norman LearTV 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 http...2017-08-2856 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 68 - Fred MelamedFor 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://ww...2017-08-211h 09
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 67 - Amber NavranAmber 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 i...2017-08-141h 02
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 66 - Rostam BatmanglijRostam 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...2017-08-071h 01
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 65 - Doreen St. FélixDoreen 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 S...2017-07-3153 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 64 - Robert Downey Sr.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...2017-07-2459 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 63 - Jelani CobbJelani 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...2017-07-171h 32
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 62 - Jenny SlateJenny 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...2017-07-111h 06
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 61 - A.O. ScottA.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...2017-07-031h 12
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 60 - Malcolm GladwellMalcolm 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...2017-06-261h 10
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 59 - Patricia LockwoodPatricia 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...2017-06-1959 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 58 - Lena WaitheLena 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...2017-06-121h 14
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 57 - Sudan Archives (Stones Throw Series)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...2017-05-3158 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 56 - Mild High Club (Stones Throw Series)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...2017-05-2458 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 55 - J Rocc (Stones Throw Series)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...2017-05-171h 13
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 54 - Peanut Butter Wolf (Stones Throw Series)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...2017-05-101h 16
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 53 - Corinne Bailey RaeThis 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...2017-05-041h 12
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 52 - Martin StarrThis 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...2017-04-261h 09
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 51 - Anna SaleThis 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...2017-04-191h 01
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 50 - MomTo 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...2017-04-121h 16
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 49 - James GrayIn 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 a...2017-04-051h 07
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 48 - Andy DalyThis 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...2017-03-291h 18
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 47 - Alice LoweThis 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...2017-03-221h 04
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoLive From SXSW: Janicza BravoThis 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...2017-03-151h 02
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 45 - Brenton WoodThis 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...2017-03-081h 07
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 44 - Philip Baker HallThis 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...2017-03-021h 34
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 43 - Andrea SilenziThis 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...2017-02-221h 15
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 42 - Roger Ross WilliamsThis 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...2017-02-1450 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 41 - Andy GreenwaldThis 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...2017-02-081h 24
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 40 - Kate BerlantThis week Sam sits down with stand-up comedian, actress, and writer Kate Berlant. The New York Times profiled her as a "magnetic improvisational comic" and this could not be more true. Kate and Sam discuss art's place in the world of Trump, her upbringing as an only child, her new show "555," and the intricacies of improv. ------------------------------------------------- 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.c...2017-02-011h 00
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 39 - Noël WellsThis week Sam sits down with actress, director, and writer Noël Wells—who is best known for her character Rachel on the hit Netflix show, Master of None—at the Sundance Film Festival. Wonderfully forthcoming, Wells tells Sam a number of honest opinions, including the affects of social media on today’s political climate, coming to terms with oneself, and the benefits of psychedelics. ------------------------------------------------- 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-choic...2017-01-2541 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 38 - Brett GelmanWe're back! This week, Sam sits down with comedian Brett Gelman. You probably recognize him from films such as The Other Guys and 30 Minutes or Less and television shows like Man Seeking Woman, Another Period, and Fleabag. Back on screen in Lemon, which premieres at Sundance later this month, Brett came on to discuss today's political climate, trying to walk the line between self-awareness and self-criticism, leaving Adult Swim, and his minor feud with Eric Andre. ------------------------------------------------- Talk Easy is sponsored by MUBI. Get your 30-day free trial at www.mubi.com/TalkEasy. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided...2017-01-181h 17
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoBonus Christmas Special 2016!Merry Christmas, everybody! We're closing out 2016 with a very special bonus episode of Talk Easy looking back on the year that was in cultural, politics, and art. To help us work it all out, we've invited back some of our favourite guests from Talk Easy episodes past, including Matt Zoller Seitz, Mackenzie Davis, Zazie Beetz, Wesley Morris, and more. Consider it a gift for the holiday season, and keep an eye out for the return of the show in January. Thanks for listening, and have a wonderful new year. ------------------------------------------------- Talk Easy is sponsored by MUBI. Get your 30-day...2016-12-261h 35
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 37 - Reggie WattsOn this week's show, comedian Reggie Watts joins Sam to talk about finding comedy and music in improvisation, keeping those creative juices flowing, and finding the space to be creative at all. Plus, Reggie shares his thoughts on racism in America today, and considers the election of Donald Trump. All that, and a whole lot more. ------------------------------------------------- Talk Easy is sponsored by MUBI. Get your 30-day free trial at http://www.mubi.com/TalkEasy. For more information about Baden Baden, MUBI’s exciting first theatrical release, check out the website and trailer. ------------------------------------------------- Music for the show provided by @Va...2016-12-141h 06
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 36 - Jay Caspian KangThis week on Talk Easy, journalist Jay Caspian King joins the show to talk about his career writing and editing at noteworthy publications like Grantland, The New Yorker, New York Times Magazine, and Vice. Sam and Jay also discuss his 2010 article about his own gambling addiction, his recent aversion to everything fiction and popular culture, and the belief buried beneath the cold cynicism of most people in journalism. All that and much more. ------------------------------------------------- Talk Easy is sponsored by MUBI. Get your 30-day free trial at http://www.mubi.com/TalkEasy. For more information about Baden Baden, MUBI’s ex...2016-12-071h 06
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 35 - Matt Zoller SeitzThis week on Talk Easy, NY Magazine TV critic and RogerEbert.com EIC Matt Zoller Seitz joins Sam to talk about the state of film criticism. They also discuss director Oliver Stone, whose the subject of Seitz latest book The Oliver Stone Experience, a rollicking compendium of essays, interviews, and analysis that took five years to write. The wide-ranging conversations hits on the legacy of Roger Ebert, raising children, and some advice Matt gave Sam about a year ago that changed his life. ------------------------------------------------- Talk Easy is sponsored by MUBI. Get your 30-day free trial at mubi.com/TalkEasy...2016-11-301h 04
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 34 - Mackenzie DavisThis week on Talk Easy, emerging actress Mackenzie Davis ("Halt and Catch Fire") joins Sam to talk about...well, yeah, the election. At least for a little bit. After working through some grief and trying to find a way forward, they discuss Mackenzie's work in films like "What If," "The Martian," and "This Awkward Moment." They also dive into her early twenties, managing friendships, and, everyone's favorite subject, death, prompted by her great episode in "Black Mirror." ------------------------------------------------- Always Shine opens at the Roxie Theater in San Francisco this Friday, November 25th. Here are tickets: http://www.roxie.com...2016-11-2354 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 33 - Zoe KazanOn this week's show, actress Zoe Kazan joins Sam for a conversation about growing up with screenwriter parents, going off to be an actress, finding the right therapist, the stress of making the film 'Ruby Sparks' with her boyfriend, the pain of being reduced to a single movie trope, and some thoughts on Donald Trump and the election, recorded before the results last Tuesday. All that, plus some thoughts at the top from Sam himself, reflecting on those election results. ------------------------------------- Talk Easy is sponsored by MUBI. Get a 30-day free trial for MUBI at http://www.mubi.com...2016-11-161h 13
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 32 - Max LinskyOn this week's show, our guest is one of the inspirations for this very podcast. Max Linsky, co-host of the 'Longform' podcast, which features excellent in-depth interviews with many of the best journalists in the field. Max is also the co-founder of Pineapple Street Media, a podcasting and media company, as well as the host of the 'With Her' podcast, the official podcast of the Hillary Clinton campaign. That's right, Max co-hosts a podcast with Hillary Clinton herself. Sam and Max discuss Hillary, journalism, the art of interviewing, the wild story of how he met his wife, and much...2016-11-0255 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 31 - Zazie BeetzZazie Beetz is a great rising young actress, who has recently gained rightful attention for her fantastic work in the FX series "Atlanta" and her role in Joe Swanberg's Netflix anthology series "Easy." Zazie sat down with Sam to talk about her unique upbringing, speaking multiple languages, trying to make the world better for women, finding solace in not being important, and overcoming the often crippling anxiety of life. Music for the show provided by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at http://talkeasypod.com Learn more about y...2016-10-261h 06
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 30 - W. Kamau Bell Returns!He's back! W. Kamau Bell, the second ever guest on Talk Easy, makes his triumphant return to talk about this crazy election, the madness of Donald Trump, doing those crazy panels on CNN, and maintaining sanity through his family. But mostly the crazy election stuff. Buy Kamau's new comedy special, "Semi-Prominent Negro," at Kill Rock Stars: http://www.killrockstars.com/kamau/ Music for the show provided by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at http://talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comS...2016-10-2154 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 29 - Margaret BrownMargaret Brown is the talented documentarian behind "Never Trump," a short doc from the New York Times, about hardcore conservatives who have come out against Donald Trump. In a wide-ranging conversation, Sam and Margaret touch on everything from the state of American politics headed into this election, the power of documentary filmmaking, and finding the right balance between work and living. Watch "Never Trump" on the NYT website: http://www.nytimes.com/video/opinion/100000004694111/never-trump-but-then-what.html Music for the show provided by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at http://talkeasypod...2016-10-2057 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 28 - Kelly ReichardtThis week on the show, "Certain Women" director Kelly Reichardt joins Sam for a conversation about her unique and beautiful filmmaking, the loneliness of directing, the subtle sentimentality at the heart of her work, and talking to the neighbor's cat. All that, plus her early days working in a mail room, first picking up a Super8 camera, and much more. Music for the show provided by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at http://talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee o...2016-10-121h 01
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 27 - MndsgnThis week on Talk Easy, Sam talks with hip hop artist/musician/producer extraordinaire, Ringgo Ancheta, aka @Mndsgn. In their conversation, Mndsgn shares how he landed on his distinct musical style, the elusive story behind his own origin, and the role of psychedelics in his music and his life. All that and more. Music for the show provided by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at http://talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2016-10-0456 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 26 - Esperanza SpaldingMulti-hyphenate jazz star Esperanza Spalding stops by Talk Easy to talk about her career, being an inconsistent person, developing that into creative energy, and the artistic value of being attentive to others. See Esperanza Spalding on tour: http://www.esperanzaspalding.com/tour/ Music for the show provided by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at 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.2016-09-271h 14
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 25 - Steve JamesLegendary documentary filmmaker Steve James joins the show to talk with Sam about his extraordinary career, his masterpiece "Hoop Dreams," his film about the late Roger Ebert, his new film, "Abacus: Small Enough to Jail," as well as his intimate approach to making films about complex subjects. UCLA's 'Kartemquin Films at 50': https://www.cinema.ucla.edu/events/2016/kartemquin-films-at-50 Music for the by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about the show at http://talkeasypod.com Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener f...2016-09-2054 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 24 - Michael PhillipsThis week on a special TIFF 2016 edition of Talk Easy, Sam sits down with Chicago Tribune film critic Michael Phillips at the Toronto International Film Festival to trade friendly barbs over sushi while talking about Michael's long career in criticism, his experience taking over the reins of At the Movies, his role as a white middle-aged man in an ever more modern and diverse cultural environment. Plus, Sam shares the story of his first interaction with Phillips as a budding writer in high school. Music for the by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more...2016-09-1335 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 23 - Lauren LapkusThis week's guest, comedian Lauren Lapkus is known to most people from her roles in 'Orange is the New Black' and 'Jurassic World', but she made her name as an outstanding impressionist and improviser, gaining attention on 'Comedy Bang Bang' and her own podcast, 'With Special Guest, Lauren Lapkus'. She's most recently featured in Netflix's sketch comedy series, 'Characters'. Lauren joins Sam for a discussion of her career, staying sane online, and just how she's able to embody so many hilarious characters in her comedy. Music for the by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn...2016-09-071h 01
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 22 - Ben SchwartzThink of any great comedy project in the last decade and Ben Schwartz probably had something to do with it. Jean-Ralphio on Parks and Recreation, Clyde on House of Lies, Rutabaga Rabitowitz on BoJack Horseman. He was even a voice consultant for BB-8 in the new Star Wars film. On the show Ben talks to Sam about his roots in the Bronx, the enduring genius of the late Gene Wilder and Harris Wittels, being a hustler in Hollywood, and the best advice his father ever gave him. Music for the by @Vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi: http://krishnabalashenoi...2016-08-311h 01
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 21 - Melanie LynskeyOn this week's show, Sam is joined by the great and talented actress Melanie Lynskey. Hailing from New Zealand, Lynskey got her start at 15 in Peter Jackson's 'Heavenly Creatures', co-starring a young Kate Winslet. She has since gone on to play roles on everything from 'Two and a Half Men' and 'Shattered Glass' to 'Up in the Air' and 'Happy Christmas'. In the episode, Lynskey shares revealing stories from growing up in New Zealand, getting engaged to a man she only knew for three weeks, working with Charlie Sheen and Ed Norton, navigating a career as a character actress...2016-08-231h 00
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 20 - Charlene deGuzmanCharlene deGuzman made waves on the internet three years when her short film, "I Forgot My Phone," which she wrote and starred in, went viral. Now she's back with a new, much bigger project, trying to fund her first feature film "Unlovable," on Kickstarter. The film—which was conceived by herself and Mark Duplass, and has the backing of Patton Oswalt—is about a young woman coping with sex and love addiction. It's an affliction deGuzman has been dealing with personally for much of her life, and in this interview she talks with Sam about her experiences in sex work...2016-08-1748 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 19 - Ira SachsIra Sachs is the acclaimed director of films like 'Love is Strange' and 'Keep the Lights On'. Now he's back with the beautiful film, 'Little Men', inspired in part by his own youth. Ira sat down with Sam to talk about 'Little Men', his own upbringing in the South, coming out to his parents as a teenager, navigating a career on the indie film scene, and the difficulty of crossing different social streams. Music for the show by Vanilla @vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.i...2016-08-1048 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 18 - Kate MicucciYou probably know Kate Micucci from somewhere, whether it was her role in 'Scrubs,' or 'How I Met Your Mother,' or 'The Big Bang Theory,' or 'When in Rome,' or 'Rules of Engagement,' or countless other TV series and indie films she's appeared in. Of course, Micucci is even better known as one half of the comedy music duo "Garfunkel and Oates," which spawned a series of YouTube videos, albums, and even a TV series for IFC. Now Micucci co-stars in a new film from director Mike Birbiglia and producer Ira Glass, called 'Don't...2016-08-0251 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 17 - Alan ArkinAlan Arkin has been acting in movies since the 1960s, delivering decades worth of great and memorable performances, including indelible turns in 'The Russians are Coming, The Russians are Coming', 'Glengarry Glen Ross', 'The In-Laws', and 'Little Miss Sunshine'. Arkin sat down with Sam for a conversation about his career, being called to the House Un-American Activities Committee, the problems with modern American filmmaking, and his fears of a Trump presidency, and his friendship with J.D. Salinger, who he now plays on 'BoJack Horseman'. Music for the show by Vanilla @vanilla. Original illustrations by Krishna Shenoi http://krishnabalashenoi...2016-07-2755 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 16 - Donnie TrumpetNico Segal, aka @DonnieTrumpet, is a musician out of Chicago whose work with Chance the Rapper and Vic Mensa has gained him notoriety in the worlds of hip-hop and jazz. His most recent album, 2015's 'Surf'—an album made in collaboration with a collective of artists he calls The Social Experiment, which includes Chance and others, plus contributions from artists like Erykah Badu and more—is a masterful work of musical composition and optimistic sound. Donnie sat down with Sam to chat about growing up in Chicago, picking up the trumpet—his signature instrument—going on tour with Frank Ocean, a...2016-07-1957 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 15 - Eric AndréEric André is the host of the bizarre, surreal, insane 'The Eric André Show' on Adult Swim. His style of comedy can be described as erratic, insane, surreal, and, of course, utterly hilarious. André also stars in the series, 'Man Seeking Woman,' and was featured in the now-canceled 'Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23.' André stopped by Talk Easy at the end of a long day of press and gave what even he deemed, "the weirdest interview I've ever done in my life." Uncomfortable and totally out there, much like his own show, this episode encapsulates much of w...2016-07-1338 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 14 - Alex GibneyAlex Gibney is one of the most successful and prolific documentary filmmakers in the business. His films have covered controversial figures like Elliott Spitzer and Lance Armstrong, and topics as intense as corporate malfeasance, the Church of Scientology, and the world of hacking in his latest doc, Zero Day. Gibney sat down with Sam to talk about the common themes in his work, as well as addressing the criticisms he's received for both his possibly manipulative filmmaking techniques, as well as his incredibly prolific output. Music by Vanilla @vanilla. Original illustration by Krishna Shenoi http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. 2016-07-0549 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 13 - Alissa WilkinsonAlissa Wilkinson, chief film critic at Christianity Today, joins Sam to talk about growing up Evangelical, being homeschooled, moving to "godless" New York and working as a film critic with a distinctly moral bent. She also discusses her new book, co-written with Robert Joustra, "How to Survive the Apocalypse: Zombies, Cylons, Faith, and Politics at the End of the World," as well as her work as a professor at The King's College in New York. Special thanks to Amado's at 998 Valencia for allowing us to record in their wonderful space. Purchase Alissa's book, "How to Survive the Apocalypse," on...2016-06-281h 02
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 12 - Robert ForsterLegendary Oscar-nominated actor Robert Forster invited Sam to his favourite breakfast spot for a wide ranging chat about his life and career. Back to his early days growing up in freezing cold Rochester, getting his first role on a John Huston film starring Marlon Brando and Elizabeth Taylor, and all the way to his incredible work with Quentin Tarantino on 'Jackie Brown'. Forster, a consumate storyteller, shares stories of marrying his wife after only five dates, having a life epiphany while running a marathon, and walking into his first film audition without any fear. Plus, advice on the best...2016-06-211h 09
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 11 - Amy NicholsonSam sits down with Amy Nicholson, the new Chief Film Critic for MTV News, to talk about her experiences growing up in San Antonio, her college life, the nightmare August that set her on the path toward film criticism , her book about Tom Cruise, and helping to build the new MTV. 'Tom Cruise: Anatomy of an Actor': https://www.amazon.com/Tom-Cruise-Anatomy-Amy-Nicholson/dp/0714868019/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465915344&sr=8-1&keywords=tom+cruise+anatomy+of+an+actor Music by Vanilla @vanilla. Original illustration by Krishna Shenoi http://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about your a...2016-06-141h 20
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 10 - Sherman AlexieAuthor, poet, filmmaker Sherman Alexie has been an articulate, outspoken artistic voice in the Native American community for over 20 years. His collections of poetry and novels have received wide acclaim, including a 2007 National Book Award for his young adult novel, 'The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian.' Alexie sits down with Sam for a raw, funny, political, and often emotional conversation about growing up on a reservation, his extraordinary career, his sometimes fraught relationship with Native American critics, his frustrations with the Bernie Sanders movement, and the new generation of brown-skinned activists taking up the mantle. Music...2016-06-0759 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 9 - Spencer HaywoodNBA Hall of Famer Spencer Haywood, featured in the new documentary "Full Court: The Spencer Haywood Story," joins Sam to talk about his amazing career in basketball, fighting against the system and paying the cost, the weight of addiction, and living to be a savior. Music by Vanilla http://soundcloud.com/vanilla. Original illustration by Krishna Shenoi https://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.2016-05-311h 02
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 8 - Mac DeMarcoCanadian-born indie musician Mac DeMarco joins Sam to discuss going to school in Montreal, touring with his band, his happy relationship, fans show up at his house in the middle of the night, and even some thoughts on Donald Trump! Music by Vanilla http://soundcloud.com/vanilla. Original illustration by Krishna Shenoi https://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.2016-05-2457 min
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 7 - The Ross BrothersThe Ross Brothers, Bill and Turner, have made a name for themselves in the film scene, putting together documentaries with the quality of atmosphere, composition, experimentation, and editing usually reserved for fiction films. The brothers joined Sam, fiery hard liquor in hand, at the San Francisco International Film Festival to talk about their concert film, "Contemporary Color," about David Byrne's multi-artist color guard arena show. Music by Vanilla http://soundcloud.com/vanilla. Original illustration by Krishna Shenoi https://krishnabalashenoi.com/. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.c...2016-05-171h 00
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 6 - Lamorne MorrisThis week, Lamorne Morris, actor, comedian and star of 'New Girl', sits down to talk about everything from his early start at Second City and hosting a show on BET, to his dating life as a successful actor in Los Angeles. Morris also shares the story of his long journey to landing the role of Winston on 'New Girl', and discusses writing the Black Lives Matter-themed episode, 'Par 5'. Music by http://soundcloud.com/vanilla. Original illustration by Krishna Shenoi. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.c...2016-05-101h 05
Talk Easy with Sam FragosoEpisode 5 - Wesley MorrisWesley Morris, fresh from delivering a keynote address at the San Francisco International Film Festival, and only a few months into his new job as Critic-at-Large at The New York Times, sits down with Sam to discuss his work, and the task of making criticism speak to wider social and cultural concerns. Special thanks to the 59th San Francisco International Film Festival for hosting this conversation. More info about the festival here: http://Festival.sffs.org Original illustration by Krishna Shenoi. Music for the show provided by https://soundcloud.com/vanilla. Learn more a...2016-05-031h 06