In a special Emmy-themed roundtable, Franklin and Kate welcome three powerhouse creators—Billy Porter (Pose), Robin Thede (A Black Lady Sketch Show), and Ramy Youssef (Ramy)—for an unfiltered, deeply personal conversation recorded just ahead of the 72nd Annual Emmy Awards. This episode breaks the usual format to let the magic of the moment unfold. The trio dives into what it means to bring their full selves to the screen, the evolving responsibility of the artist, and the lessons they’d share with their younger selves. (As Billy memorably puts it: “A b*tch has to have boundaries!”)

It’s raw, real, and refreshingly honest—touching on identity, representation, and the complexity behind creating truly authentic work. As Kate says, “We just got out of the way and let it flow.” And flow it does.

Questions? Comments? Criticism? Hit us up on social media at @theblcklst.

This conversation took place in 2020. To learn more about The Black List, visit www.blcklst.com.

Mentions: 

+Pose: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/pose 

+A Black Lady Sketch Show: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/a_black_lady_sketch_show 

+Ramy: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/ramy 

Introducing Dr. Vonda Wright: Formula to Lose Weight and Gain Muscle (Why your Current Workout is Not Giving You Results) from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How often do you work out?

What’s been the biggest challenge in your fitness journey so far?

In today’s episode, Jay sits down with Dr. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic surgeon and researcher specializing in active aging and longevity. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay feeling youthful as you age, lose stubborn fat, and improve your sleep,, this conversation is packed with life changing insights.

Jay and Dr. Wright start by debunking the myth that aging is an inevitable decline. Dr. Wright explains how lifestyle choices in your 20s and 30s directly impact how you feel in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. They dive into how excess fat, especially around the belly, isn’t just about appearance—it’s a sign of inflammation that accelerates aging. Dr. Wright shares how movement, muscle mass, and diet play a crucial role in fat loss and energy levels.

They also explore the powerful body-brain connection. Dr. Wright breaks down how physical activity releases key proteins that protect the brain from cognitive decline and diseases like dementia. Jay and Dr. Wright discuss how poor sleep can sabotage fat loss, slow down recovery, and disrupt hormones—leading to more cravings, weight gain, and reduced longevity.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How fat storage impacts aging and energy levels.

The critical role of sleep in weight loss and brain function.

How movement and muscle mass keep you youthful.

How lifestyle choices in your 30s affect long-term health.

Why fitness-based friendships can improve your health.

If you want to stay sharp, maintain a healthy weight, and build lasting habits that help you thrive for decades, this episode gives you the tools to start now.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free Monk Mode newsletter. Subscribe here.

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro 

01:43 Your Perception Of Aging Is A Myth

05:31 Develop Healthy Habits in Your 20s

10:07 Why Your Sleep Can Fall Apart in Midlife

16:58 Can You Restock Years Of Not Sleeping?

22:09 Sleep Deprivation is Sabotaging Your Weight Loss

26:45 The Weight Loss Formula That Actually Works 

36:04 There Is A Difference Between Being Healthy & Fit

43:13 Fitness Is A Great Way To Connect

46:17 How To Lose Stubborn Belly Fat

55:30 The Body Brain Connection is Integral to 

1:01:39 Don’t Make Excuses to Start Making Changes In Your Life

1:04:24 Mobility is One of the Most Important Skills for Aging Well 

1:09:51 Break Free from Your Limiting Beliefs

1:17:15 Vonda Wright on Final 5

Episode Resources:

Vonda Wright| Website

Vonda Wright| YouTube 

Vonda Wright| Linkedin

Vonda Wright| Instagram

Vonda Wright| Facebook

Vonda Wright| Tiktok

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Olympic gold medalist. Figure skating icon. Self-proclaimed "dramatic monster." Adam Rippon joins Franklin and Kate for an unhinged and hilarious episode that covers everything from Molly Shannon obsession to curating the perfect skating soundtrack. The trio dives into Useless Celebrity History, shares pop culture hot takes, and gets wonderfully derailed during a chaotic movie quiz. Plus, Adam opens up about his first on-screen crush (spoiler: Zac Efron inHigh School Musical) and the very unexpected hobbies that moment inspired. This episode is pure gold — just like Adam’s medal.

Questions? Comments? Criticism? Hit us up on social media at @theblcklst.

This episode was originally released in 2020 To learn more about The Black List, visit www.blcklst.com.

Mentions: 

+Superstar: http://rottentomatoes.com/m/1093874_superstar

Introducing LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How would your life change if your healing reshaped not just your body, but your entire way of being?

What if the real change wasn’t about losing anything—but about gaining a deeper connection to yourself?

In this deeply vulnerable episode, global superstar Lizzo sits down with Jay for an unfiltered conversation about loss, boundaries, transformation, and what it really feels like living in the spotlight. Lizzo shares how her loyalty to friends and her habit of seeing the good in everyone sometimes came at the cost of her own peace.

She shares what happened when she finally stopped chasing relationships that no longer served her—and how distance gave her clarity on who was truly in her corner. Lizzo opens up about the pain of letting people go, the reality of feeling isolated, and the music that came out of her lowest moments.

Lizzo dives deep into how the recent public scandal impacted her—and why she’s now more intentional than ever with her words, her energy, and her healing. Lizzo opens up about the responsibility of being a public figure, how her weight release journey evolved into a powerful personal transformation, and why she's chosen to let go of toxic energy.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to Let Go of One-Sided Relationships

Why Some People Disappear When You Set Boundaries

How to Honor Your Emotions Without Editing Them

How Your Energy Shapes What You Attract

How Love Without Drama Becomes a Flow State

What It Means to Grow Apart Without Guilt

Why Intentional Healing Starts With Self-Awareness

Lizzo’s transformation is a reminder that you can still believe in people—and protect yourself. You can evolve—and still be soft. And you can face the hardest season of your life—and still come back to love.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here. 

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there! 

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

02:31 Sound Bath For Healing

07:40 Understanding Astrology to Change Your Life

10:38 Choose How to Lead Your Life 

15:28 How to Protect Your Peace

19:28 Getting Inspiration from Grief

26:02 Set Boundaries to Protect Yourself

35:05 Do You Believe in Love?

39:24 Continue to Be Yourself

43:14 Stand Up for Your Cause

46:39 Stop Forcing Relationships to Happen

50:18 Know Your Role, Stay in Your Lane

56:36 Advice for Aspiring Artist

58:40 How to Become an Unconditional Lover

01:02:40 The Power of Self Love 

01:05:51 Be Real About Your Journey

01:11:03 Letting Go of What’s Holding You Back

01:14:12 Become the Best Version of Yourself

01:15:45 Lizzo on Final Five

Episode Resources:

Lizzo | Website

Lizzo | YouTube

Lizzo | Instagram 

Lizzo | TikTok 

Lizzo| X

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

In this episode, Franklin and Kate sit down with visionary director Cathy Yan to discuss her dynamic approach to crafting action sequences in Birds of Prey. From blending practical effects with high-energy combat to her grounded take on VFX, Cathy shares how she brought Gotham’s most stylish mayhem to life. The conversation also delves into her journey from journalist to filmmaker, revealing how her investigative mindset influences her storytelling. Plus, Cathy opens up about her views on the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe, the evolution of DC films, and—just maybe—a little tease about a Birds of Prey sequel. This conversation from 2020 goes deep on all this filmmaking, and genre storytelling, plus the art of making an oddball, feminist superhero movie that breaks all the rules.

Questions? Comments? Criticism? Hit us up on social media at @theblcklst.

This episode was originally published in 2020, behind a paywall. To learn more about The Black List, visit www.blcklst.com. 

Mentions:

+Birds of Prey: www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/cathy_yan

Introducing David Blaine: I Nearly Died Doing This (How to Conquer Fear and Push Your Limits) from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

What’s a fear you want to overcome?

How do you stay calm under pressure?

What if the only limits you had were the ones you refused to break? Today, in this spellbinding episode, world-renowned illusionist, endurance artist, and master of the impossible, David Blaine, sits down for a deep and insightful conversation that goes far beyond magic. Known for his jaw-dropping stunts, being buried alive, standing encased in ice for days, and holding his breath underwater for over 17 minutes, David has captivated audiences worldwide. But behind the spectacle lies a profound philosophy of discipline, resilience, and the boundless potential of the human mind.

Jay and David explore what drives someone to willingly push themselves to their absolute limits, both physically and mentally. David opens up about his mindset, revealing how he prepares for extreme feats that defy human expectations. He explains the power of visualization, breathwork, and sheer willpower in overcoming pain, fear, and doubt. But this conversation isn’t just about physical endurance, it’s about the mental and emotional strength required to navigate life’s greatest challenges. David shares personal stories of setbacks and perseverance, showing that even in moments of failure, there is wisdom to be gained.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Train Your Mind to Overcome Fear

How to Build Unbreakable Mental Resilience

How to Use Breathwork to Enhance Endurance

How to Stay Calm Under Extreme Pressure

How to Push Past Your Physical Limits

How to Cultivate Childlike Curiosity for Creativity

How to Reframe Failure as a Stepping Stone

No matter what obstacles stand in your way, remember: you are stronger than you think, and capable of more than you realize. Believe in yourself, stay curious, and never stop challenging what’s possible.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here.

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there!

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

01:41 The Subway Trick that Started It All

04:39 Lessons from the Above the Below

09:10 What Happens When You Don’t Feel Hunger

11:34 Pushing the Body Beyond Its Limit

17:25 The Capabilities of the Human Body

22:52 The Knife Stunt   

26:25 The Bullet-Catch Trick

30:12 Break Free from Your Comfort Zone

32:27 Push the Boundaries of Your Growth

34:41 Some Stunts are Just Too Dangerous

41:46 Pushing Yourself Without Risking Your Life

45:04 Failure Leads to Continuous Learning

47:26 The Riskiest Illusion 

49:29 Processing the Pain of Grief

53:32 Everything is About Perspective

57:14 Open Up Your Mind with Books

01:01:24 Every Person is Unique

01:03:06 The Bridge Jump, Anything is Possible

01:09:13 David on Final Five 

Episode Resources:

David Blaine | Website

David Blaine | YouTube

David Blaine | Instagram 

David Blaine | Facebook 

David Blaine | X 

David Blaine Do Not Attempt

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

[Reprise] Franklin and Kate are joined by the incredible Radha Blank—director, playwright, rapper, and friend of The Black List. Her debut feature, The 40-Year-Old Version, premiered at Sundance and earned her the Directing Award, making an unforgettable mark on the industry. The film is a deeply personal and hilarious take on reinvention and artistic expression. Radha takes us through her journey—from playwriting and rapping to stepping behind the camera for her first feature. We also dive into her early cinephile roots, exploring the films that shaped her storytelling, from The Landlord to Cinema Paradiso. Plus, she shares the moment she realized film was her true calling, and how her mother’s love of cinema influenced her creative path.

Questions? Comments? Criticism? Hit us up on social media at @theblcklst.

This conversation took place in 2021. To learn more about The Black List, visit www.blcklst.com.

Mentions: 

• The 40-Year-Old Version: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_forty_year_old_version 

Introducing Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco EXCLUSIVE: Their Love Story Like You’ve Never Heard Before from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How did Selena and Benny first meet?

What makes their love story unique?

On today’s episode of On Purpose, Jay sits down with global superstar Selena Gomez and acclaimed music producer Benny Blanco where they share their love story like they never have before. They open up about their personal journey—one that didn’t start with an immediate spark.

Their story is full of humor, mixed signals, and that moment when it all clicked. Benny once thought Selena didn’t like him, while Selena, protecting her heart, kept her distance. But as their friendship grew, they built something real—a relationship rooted in trust, respect, open communication, and always supporting each other. Their story is a true testament that love unfolds when the timing is right.

Together, Jay, Selena, and Benny reflect on the power of embracing love, letting go of past fears, and choosing a partner who helps you grow. Their journey serves as a beautiful reminder that love often comes when you least expect it—but when it’s right, you’ll know.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Build a Strong Friendship Before Dating

How to Communicate Openly in a Relationship

How to Maintain Trust in a Long-Distance Relationship

How to Support Your Partner’s Emotional Needs

How to Balance a Busy Career with a Healthy Relationship

Selena and Benny’s story reminds us that true love isn’t defined by grand gestures or perfection—it’s about finding someone who sees you for who you are, supports you through life’s challenges, and makes even the simplest moments feel special.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here.

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there!

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

01:10 Male Friendships Can Be Challenging

03:01 First Meeting & Deep Conversations

08:48 How It All Started

16:32 Opening Up to Love Again

18:57 It All Happens for a Reason

21:08 Finding Genuine Love

27:13 Be Kind to Yourself

33:37 Don’t Let Negativity Dictate Your Life

37:55 Cultivating Relationships with Trust

48:22 This is How Emotionally Mature Relationships Work      

57:08 The Proposal 

01:05:29 Wedding Planning

01:06:26 Recording an Album Together

01:13:17 Future Family Plans

01:18:03 Selena and Benny on Fun Questions

Episode Resources:

Selena Gomez | Website

Selena Gomez | Facebook

Selena Gomez | Twitter

Selena Gomez | Instagram

Selena Gomez | YouTube

Benny Blanco | TikTok

Benny Blanco | Instagram

Benny Blanco | YouTube

Benny Blanco | Twitter

Benny Blanco | Facebook

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

[Encore! ¡Otra!] Two powerhouse talents, one unforgettable episode. When The Black List teamed up with Hulu to launch the first-ever Latinx List, it was only natural for Franklin and Kate to sit down with two of the initiative’s driving forces: Gloria Calderón Kellett (One Day at a Time) and Tanya Saracho (Vida). In this classic conversation, the acclaimed showrunners discuss how their friendship fuels creativity, their commitment to uplifting the next generation of Latinx storytellers, and the impact of authentic representation in Hollywood.

Questions? Comments? Criticism? Hit us up on social media at @theblcklst.

This was recorded in 2020. To learn more about The Black List, visit www.blcklst.com.

Mentions: 

+Deadline, The Black List, Latin Tracking Board, NALIP, And Untitled Latinx Project Unveil Latinx TV List: https://deadline.com/2020/06/the-black-list-latin-tracking-board-nalip-remezcla-untitled-latinx-project-unveil-inaugural-latinx-tv-list-diversity-inclusion-representation-1202972696/ 

+One Day at a Time: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/one_day_at_a_time 

+Hollywood Reporter, ‘One Day at a Time,’ ‘Star Trek’ Sub for Returning Originals on CBS Fall Schedule: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/one-day-at-a-time-star-trek-sub-for-returning-originals-on-cbs-fall-schedule 

+Vida: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/vida 

+Variety, ‘Vida’ Creator Tanya Saracho Signs Overall Deal With UCP: https://variety.com/2020/tv/news/vida-tanya-saracho-overall-deal-ucp-1234740022/ 

Introducing Murder on Steroids (PODCAST EXCLUSIVE EPISODE) from MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious Stories.

Follow the show: MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious Stories

On a summer night In 2013, newlyweds Joe and Olga Connell walked into their condominium in Wilmington, Delaware. Joe flipped on the light and sat down on the couch, while Olga headed to the bedroom to get changed. Suddenly, Joe heard a loud scream. He got up, and ran down the hall to the bedroom. There, he found Olga sitting on the floor yelling and crying. And he saw her jewelry boxes had been completely emptied and thrown off her dresser – thousands of dollars worth of rings and necklaces were just gone. But through her tears, Olga said she didn’t care about how much money they cost. Some of those pieces were precious family heirlooms that had been passed down to Olga from hers and Joe’s mothers. Joe comforted his wife, but he didn’t tell her what he was thinking. Because Joe thought he knew who had robbed them, and he feared this might be just the first attack in an escalating family war.

For 100s more stories like these, check out our main YouTube channel just called "MrBallen" -- https://www.youtube.com/c/MrBallen

If you want to reach out to me, contact me on Instagram, Twitter or any other major social media platform, my username on all of them is @mrballen

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].