The Accidental Activist

In this week’s episode, Isha is joined by actor and director Justin Baldoni. He is best known for his charming performance as Rafael on “Jane the Virgin,” but in recent years, Justin has also been making waves as an activist for men’s mental health. Isha and Justin talk candidly about his early years in Hollywood and his struggles with identity and masculinity. He also opens up about his continued efforts to help men and boys challenge the societal belief structure of what it means to be a man  — from his “Man Enough” podcast to his brand new book “Boys Will Be Human.” 

Learn more about Man Enough: Man Enough

Learn about Justin’s nonprofit Be Love: BeLove

Check out Justin’s newest book here: Boys Will Be Human – HarperCollins   

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When BLM protests swept across the country in 2020, many celebrities shared their support on social media. Actor Kendrick Sampson (Insecure, The Vampire Diaries) actually joined protestors in the streets and hasn’t stopped fighting since. In the first episode of season two, Kendrick joins Isha to talk about his ongoing efforts to push the movement for Black liberation forward. He doesn’t shy away from tough conversations about police brutality and systemic racism — and shares how his personal experiences with both have shaped the impactful work he is doing today. 

Learn more about Kendrick’s work with BLD PWR: BLD PWR

Special thanks to our season sponsor Mercedes Benz.

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All season long, join Isha Sesay as she talks with celebrity changemakers who are pushing themselves far beyond their comfort zones with the intention of making the world a better place. From issues like reproductive rights to racial justice, these Hollywood icons share how they found themselves inhabiting the role of activist – and what they’re thinking ahead of the midterms this Fall. Leave these conversations inspired to take action and get involved. 

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To close season one of The Accidental Activist, Jesse Williams joins the show. Steeped in an activist background, Jesse shares how his activism started, where his fire comes from, and how he operates as an actor and activist in Hollywood. Jesse and Isha break down what it means to be an activist and how we all have a responsibility to serve others. Finally, Jesse sheds light on the single greatest moment that threatened to turn him away from activism.

2016 BET Awards Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbJUzqw1E-g

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In this episode, Roxane and Isha explore the obsession with the scrutinization of our bodies and the role misogyny plays in that scrutiny. As a writer and social commentator, Roxane explains why she not only doesn’t claim the title of activist, but she also doesn’t do the work she does with the intention of activating. She is simply telling her story and sharing her experience. But sometimes that's enough to get put on the proverbial pedestal.

You can hear more from Roxane in her newsletter, The Audacity, and on her podcast, The Roxane Gay Agenda.

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Alyson Stoner has been in the limelight since childhood. But now she is speaking out against the lack of support for children in the industry. In this week’s episode, Alyson sheds light on the ways in which Hollywood and society fall short of protecting children in the business. She discusses her experience and why she’s chosen to use her platform to better conditions. Alyson emphasizes the importance of taking care of your mental health and how we can all do our small part to make the world a better place. 

To support Alyson and the causes she believes in, check out the organizations below:

• Movement Genius
• The Trevor Project
• VersaStyle Dance Company
• iamtheCODE

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This week, Isha is joined by Oscar winner and founder and CEO of Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative, Forest Whitaker. Forest shares how his early childhood exposure to violence in his community served as a driving force in both his acting career and his activism. He teaches Isha the lesson of the importance of being strategic and methodical with every decision you make and the two bond over their shared experience of running a not-for-profit.

You can find out more about The Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative  https://www.wpdi.org/

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 Margaret Cho has been making us laugh for years. But now it’s time to get serious. This week, Margaret joins Isha to help spotlight the rise of anti-Asian hate in America. Born out of fear, Margaret’s activism works to dismantle the toxic labels about and within the Asian American community. Margaret challenges the myths and stereotypes that harm how we see and interact with each other while demonstrating the power of turning fear into fuel.

Check out Margaret's podcast Mortal Minority!

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This week, Isha is joined by her friend and fellow activist, Masai Ujiri. As a former athlete and current President of the Toronto Raptors, Masai has a mental fortitude that extends well beyond basketball. This is the same fortitude he had to exhibit when one of the highlights of his career took a dark turn. In this episode, Masai illustrates why he credits his multinational upbringing for much of his success and why he chooses to invest in the youth. 

To support Masai’s organization, go to https://giantsofafrica.org/

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Turning pain into purpose can often be the cornerstone of activism. Dr. Lucy Kalanithi exemplifies that in her work as a physician. In this episode, Lucy walks us through her unconventional journey into activism. She explains what it means to find joy in the midst of suffering, the importance of discovering your purpose, and why she’s fighting to make the healthcare system more human and more humane. 

Check out Lucy’s podcast Gravity

Follow Isha Sesay on Twitter and Instagram. 

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.