That Was Us

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 4, Episode 7: The Dinner and the Date. Malik and Deja skip school to explore Philly, which leads to a dinner at Beth and Randall's with Malik's parents to discuss how to handle their relationship. Meanwhile, in the past, Jack and Rebecca welcome Randall’s teacher, Mr. Lawrence, to their home for dinner. Plus, Mandy, Chris, and Sterling chat with Asante Blackk, AKA Malik, about his journey leading up to This Is Us, what it was like playing Malik, memories acting with Lyric Ross (Deja), funny memories in scenes with Sterling, and so much more!

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

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Support Our Sponsors:

- Brought to you by Bombas, One Clothing Item Purchased = One Clothing Item DonatedHead over to https://bombas.com/ and use code TWU for 20% off your first purchase.

- This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/TWU and get on your way to being your best self.

- Keep it classic and cozy this fall with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to https://www.quince.com/twu for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it. Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments. Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

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00:00 – Welcome Back to “That Was Us” 🎧

03:35 – Philly Vibes & Cheesesteak Debates 🧀

Deja and Malik’s adorable date begins with laughter, local eats, and some serious cheesesteak talk.

Malik takes Deja off the tourist trail to see his real Philadelphia — the heart, soul, and neighborhood connections that define him.

12:30 – First Crush, First Kiss 💕

A beautiful young love story unfolds — from butterflies to that perfect first kiss. Tender, honest, and unforgettable.

19:59 – Meet the Parents: Pearson vs. Hodges Dinner 🍽️

Randall and Beth host Malik’s parents for a dinner that’s equal parts hilarious, tense, and eye-opening.

22:02 – Open-Toed Shoes & Open Minds 👠

Beth’s comic brilliance shines as she tries to “keep an open mind” — and open-toed shoes — during the world’s most awkward dinner.

27:21 – Dinner Table Drama & Class Clashes ⚡

Class, culture, and judgment come to a boil as the families size each other up — with grace said and shade thrown.

38:19 – Truths, Tensions & Tattoos 💬

Randall and Malik’s dad find unexpected common ground after a night of confrontation, honesty, and reflection.

41:07– Parenting Lessons & Redemption 🙏

The Pearsons face their own biases — and learn that love, not control, is what their daughter really needs.

41:56 – Flashback: Jack, Rebecca & Mr. Lawrence 🕰️

In the past, Jack invites Randall’s teacher over for dinner — and the night reveals deep insecurities and unspoken lessons.

58:20 – Langston Hughes, Identity & Healing 📚

A moving finale as young Randall recites “I, Too” — a powerful reflection on identity, belonging, and love.

1:01:3 – Spotlight on Asante Blackk 🌟

The hosts chat with Asante Blackk (Malik) about his acting journey, music, and life lessons from This Is Us.

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Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz and Rob Holysz

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 4, Episode 6: The Club. Randall struggles to navigate his identity and get Jack to understand his perspective. Kate and Toby make time to work on their marriage, while Kevin spends time with Cassidy and Nicky as his Uncle’s court date draws near. Mandy, Chris, and Sterling also chat about intimacy after having kids, finding that connection with your partner, filming vulnerable scenes, the effect of hurtful comments online, and so much more.

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

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Support Our Sponsors:

- Article is offering our listeners $50 off your first purchase of $100 or more. To claim, visit https://www.article.com/twu and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout

- Restore your peace of mind with Harbor: the only baby monitor designed to never fail you. Use code TWU or go to https://harbor.co/twu for $50 off

- This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/TWU and get on your way to being your best self.

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it. Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments. Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

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00:00 – 👋 Welcome Back

02:02 – 💑 New Parents, New Challenges

06:10 – 🔥 Kate & Toby’s “Get the Spark Back” Montage

10:30 – 🙈 Behind the Scenes: Filming the Hotel Scene

14:54 – 🧠 Marriage, Empathy & Emotional Honesty

20:00 – ⛳ Jack & Rebecca at the Country Club

31:48 – 👦 Randall Meets Mr. Lawrence

35:40 – 👁 “If You Don’t See Color…”

45:28 – 🏌️‍♂️ Lessons on Golf, Life & Legacy

53:22 – 💔 Kevin, Cassidy & Uncle Nicky in the Woods

01:00:08 – ❤️ Love, Connection & Grace in Parenthood

01:02:58 – 💬 Fan Segment: Perpetua’s Story of Belonging

Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz and Rob Holysz

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 4, Episode 5: Storybook Love. The Big Three reunite at Rebecca's new house to celebrate Kevin and Sophie getting married, but when things don’t go as planned, Rebecca is reminded of the very first meal she shared with Jack in their new home years earlier. Mandy, Chris, and Sterling talk about grief and moving on from a loved one, how your purpose can evolve and change, and so much more!

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

-------------------------

Support Our Sponsors:

- Brought to you by Bombas, One Clothing Item Purchased = One Clothing Item Donated

- This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/TWU and get on your way to being your best self.

- Buy four cartons and get the fifth free, at https://davidprotein.com/thatwasus. You can also find David on Amazon and at local retailers—just use the store locator on their website. Humans aren’t perfect, but David is.

- Go to https://OmahaSteaks.com to get 50% off sitewide, plus an extra 20% off select favorites and more limited-time deals during their Early Black Friday Sale. And use Promo Code TWU at checkout for an extra $35 off. Minimum purchase may apply. See site for details. A big thanks to our advertiser, Omaha Steaks!

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it. Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments. Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

-------------------------

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:32 Discussion

01:18:13 Fan Segment

01:37:04 Outro

Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz, Rob Holysz & Jeph Porter

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 4, Episode 4: Flip a Coin. Kate and Toby adjust to life with baby Jack while Beth prepares for the opening of her dance studio. In the past, Rebecca goes to Parents’ Weekend at Randall’s college, Kate gets a job at a record store, and Kevin...gets married! Mandy, Chris, and Sterling chat more about this cliffhanger in next week's episode too...so tune in! They also discuss the changing landscape of TV after This Is Us, learning to ask for help, and, with the help of our special guest, writer Julia Brownell, what in the world "getting bricked" meant in the writer's room!

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

-------------------------

Support Our Sponsors:

- Go to https://OmahaSteaks.com to get 50% off sitewide during their Red-Hot Sale Event. And use Promo Code TWU at checkout for an extra $35 off. Minimum purchase may apply. See site for details. A big thanks to our advertiser, Omaha Steaks!

- Brought to you by Bombas, One Clothing Item Purchased = One Clothing Item DonatedHead over to https://bombas.com/ and use code TWU for 20% off your first purchase.

- Keep it classic and cozy this fall with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to https://www.quince.com/twu for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it. Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments. Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

-------------------------

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:32 Discussion

01:02:15 Interview

01:25:53 Outro

-------------------------

Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz, Rob Holysz & Jeph Porter

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 4, Episode 3: Unhinged. As Uncle Nicky faces the fallout of his actions, Kevin steps in to help and crosses paths with Cassidy. Meanwhile, Randall launches his open-door policy, Kate meets her neighbor Gregory, and Malik opens up to Deja about his daughter. On the pod, Mandy, Chris, and Sterling talk to a surprise guest after ringing them up on a whim AND Tim Jo, AKA Jae-Won, joins to chat about his time on the show!

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

-------------------------

- Keep it classic and cozy this fall with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to https://www.quince.com/twu for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.

- BAU, Artist at War opens only in theaters, for a limited run beginning September 26th. Go to https://www.baumovie.com/ to watch the trailer, read about Josef’s real-life journey, and find showtimes near you. You can also sign your organization up for group screenings.

- To get 6 bottles of wine for $39.99, head to https://NakedWines.com/TWU and use code TWU for both the code AND PASSWORD.

- Brought to you by Bombas, One Clothing Item Purchased = One Clothing Item DonatedHead over to https://bombas.com/ and use code TWU for 20% off your first purchase.

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it. Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments. Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

-------------------------

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:32 Discussion

01:11:48 Interview

01:30:52 Outro

-------------------------

Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz, Rob Holysz & Jeph Porter

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 4, Episode 2: The Pool: Part Two. Flashbacks to a day at the pool show Jack and Rebecca struggling to keep their kids close as they grow older. In the present, the Big Three deal with their own set of challenges now that they're adults. Mandy, Chris, and Sterling talk about the crux of this episode, which leads to a discussion about entering the second half of life.

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

-------------------------

Support Our Sponsors:

- BAU, Artist at War opens only in theaters, for a limited run beginning September 26th. Go to https://www.baumovie.com/ to watch the trailer, read about Josef’s real-life journey, and find showtimes near you. You can also sign your organization up for group screenings.

- Brought to you by Bombas, One Clothing Item Purchased = One Clothing Item DonatedHead over to https://bombas.com/ and use code TWU for 20% off your first purchase.

- Restore your peace of mind with Harbor: the only baby monitor designed to never fail you. Use code TWU or go to https://harbor.co/twu for $50 off

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it. Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments. Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

-------------------------

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:32 Discussion

01:14:49 Fan Segment

01:25:43 Outro

-------------------------

Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz, Rob Holysz & Jeph Porter

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We made it to Season 4! On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re talking all about Season 4, Episode 1: Strangers.

This episode weaves together the stories of three new characters: Cassidy, a soldier returning home from Afghanistan; Malik, a teenage father finding his way; and Jack Damon, Kate and Toby’s son, a blind musician whose life is filled with unexpected love. Mandy, Chris, and Sterling talk about how the Pearsons’ past and future intersect, and as Rebecca puts it, they discover how strangers can become the most important parts of our stories.

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

-------------------------

Support Our Sponsors:

- Go to https://OmahaSteaks.com to get 50% off sitewide during their Red-Hot Sale Event. And use Promo Code TWU at checkout for an extra $35 off. Minimum purchase may apply. See site for details. A big thanks to our advertiser, Omaha Steaks!

- Try Zip Recruiter for free at https://www.ziprecruiter.com/TWU. ZipRecruiter. The smartest way to hire.

- BAU, Artist at War opens only in theaters, for a limited run beginning September 26th. Go to https://www.baumovie.com/ to watch the trailer, read about Josef’s real-life journey, and find showtimes near you. You can also sign your organization up for group screenings.

- Buy four cartons and get the fifth free, at https://davidprotein.com/thatwasus. You can also find David on Amazon and at local retailers—just use the store locator on their website. Humans aren’t perfect, but David is.

- This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/TWU and get on your way to being your best self.

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments.

Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

-------------------------

00:00:00 Intro

00:02:06 Discussion

00:52:30 Interview

01:19:44 Wrap Up

01:21:00 Outro

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Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz, Rob Holysz & Jeph Porter

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re chatting about Season 3, Episode 18: Her. In the last episode of Season 3 on This Is Us, Randall and Beth finally see eye to eye and decide to make a life-changing move for their family’s future. Meanwhile, Kate and Toby bring baby Jack home, Zoe and Kevin come to a difficult decision for their relationship, and lastly Rebecca faces a hospital stay in the past, which leads us to a moving montage as we get a peek into Rebecca’s future. Mandy, Chris, and Sterling chat about hours spent in the makeup chair, what it was like filming scenes as older versions of their characters, and what it felt like to be in the trenches with their characters during this season.

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

Support Our Sponsors:

- BAU, Artist at War opens only in theaters, for a limited run beginning September 26th. Go to https://www.baumovie.com/ to watch the trailer, read about Josef’s real-life journey, and find showtimes near you. You can also sign your organization up for group screenings.

- Keep it classic and cozy this fall with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to www.quince.com/twu for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.

- Brought to you by Bombas, One Clothing Item Purchased = One Clothing Item Donated Head over to https://bombas.com/ and use code TWU for 20% off your first purchase.

- To get 6 bottles of wine for $39.99, head to HTTPS://NakedWines.com/TWU and use code TWU for both the code AND PASSWORD.

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments.

Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

-------------------------

00:00 Intro

00:01:29 Discussion

00:54:19 Voice Note

01:03:31 Hot Takes

01:16:37 Outro

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Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz, Rob Holysz & Jeph Porter

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of That Was Us, we’re diving into Season 3, Episode 17: R & B. We see the highs and lows of Beth and Randall’s relationship through flashbacks spanning their first date to married life, including the birth of their first baby, leading to a present-day fight that could change everything.

Mandy, Chris, and Sterling chat about arguments with your spouse, the feeling of raising your kids so well that they don't need you, and the impact of a bombshell statement like the one Randall made in last week's episode. Be sure to watch and listen to the fan segment, because we have the lovely and talented Rachel Hilson, who plays young Beth, joining us on the pod!

That Was Us is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions. Music by Taylor Goldsmith and Griffin Goldsmith.

-------------------------

Support Our Sponsors:

- BAU, Artist at War opens only in theaters, for a limited run beginning September 26th. Go to https://www.baumovie.com/ to watch the trailer, read about Josef’s real-life journey, and find showtimes near you. You can also sign your organization up for group screenings.

- Buy four cartons and get the fifth free, at https://davidprotein.com/thatwasus. You can also find David on Amazon and at local retailers—just use the store locator on their website. Humans aren’t perfect, but David is.

- Brought to you by Bombas, One Clothing Item Purchased = One Clothing Item DonatedHead over to https://bombas.com/ and use code TWU for 20% off your first purchase.

-------------------------

🍋 About the Show:

The stars of This Is Us, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chris Sullivan, dive back into the world of the Pearsons, reliving each episode and all the life lessons that came with it.

Together, they dig in and dig deep, have the tough conversations, bring in very special and familiar guests, share never-before-heard behind-the-scenes moments, and feature listeners in highly anticipated fan segments.

Join your favorite family back in the living room to examine our past, cherish our present, and look to the future with new episodes of That Was Us every Tuesday.

-------------------------

00:00:00 Intro

00:00:32 Discussion

01:01:23 Interview

01:23:27 Outro

-------------------------

Executive Producers: Natalie Holysz, Rob Holysz & Jeph Porter

Creative Producer: Sam Skelton

Video Editor: Todd Hughlett

Mix & Master: Jason Richards

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the podcast, we chat about Season 3, Episode 16: Don’t Take My Sunshine Away. If there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s that the Pearsons are struggling on all fronts right now.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices