Choice Words with Samantha Bee
Lemonada Media
We make a lot of choices, every single day. Some explode, some implode, most we barely remember. Each week on Choice Words, Samantha Bee sits down with people she admires to examine the biggest choices they’ve made in their lives and the ripple effects those decisions have had. What’s a story a journalist took a chance on that changed history? A vote that a politician never should have cast? A song lyric a musician came up with in the shower that made them instantly famous?
Sam’s made a lot of choices, too. She may have to interview hersel...
Comedy or Fascism? (with Josh Gad)
Actor and fellow Daily Show alum Josh Gad joins Sam to talk about why it’s harder to do political satire now than in the early aughts (hint: it’s the fascism). They also talk about his new book, In Gad We Trust, lying to your therapist, experiencing imposter syndrome even after years of success, and why he tried to say no to the Book of Mormon. Plus they talk about why Trump impersonations are bad for comedy and hurt more than they help. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X.
Choices We Made: She Shed or Man Cave? (with Kathryn Hahn)
Actor Kathryn Hahn joins Sam from her “she shed” to talk about how important it is to try a decision on for size before you make it and how she’s very good at getting rid of stuff (except for her kids’ art projects). They talk about taking jobs to pay off student loans, the distinct wetness of pre-packaged hardboiled eggs, why moving to LA was never part of her plan, and watching their moms go through menopause. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with u
Choices We Made: Make New Friends or Keep The Old? (with Brooke Shields)
Brooke Shields joins Sam to talk about her new book “Brooke Shields is Not Allowed to Get Old” and why it was so important to her to go to college despite her already booming career. They talk about aging and making new friends in your fifties, warding off overzealous doctors, learning to accept compliments, and unwinding the internet for their teenage daughters even if sometimes their kids hurt their feelings. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us
Attention Seeker or Attention Giver? (With Chris Hayes)
MSNBC’s Chris Hayes joins Sam and drops the most intimate choice yet—the decision to kiss his now-wife for the first time! Chris talks about how he is perhaps *too* decisive, what the right level of fame is, how his life improved when he stopped reading his mentions and Donald Trump’s pathological and genuine need for attention. They talk about Chris’ new book The Sirens’ Call and why they agree Trump might actually be funny. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up
Choice Words is Pro-Choice (with Amanda Skinner)
Amanda Skinner, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England joins Sam to talk about how running a Planned Parenthood is like landing a plane while gassing it up at the same time. They talk about what it’s like working in an “access state” while getting surges of patients from other states, and how the crux of what they do is providing preventative care to keep people stay healthy. They also talk about how they’re probably the only healthcare organization that gets positive pa
Make New Friends or Keep The Old? (with Brooke Shields)
Brooke Shields joins Sam to talk about her new book “Brooke Shields is Not Allowed to Get Old” and why it was so important to her to go to college despite her already booming career. They talk about aging and making new friends in your fifties, warding off overzealous doctors, learning to accept compliments, and unwinding the internet for their teenage daughters even if sometimes their kids hurt their feelings. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us
Save The ACA or Stay Away? (with Andy Slavitt)
Andy Slavitt, President Biden’s White House Senior Advisor for the Covid response and President Obama’s head of Medicare and Medicaid, joins Sam to breakdown the current world of healthcare and discuss the life-changing decision to call the White House and offer to help fix the ACA website. They talk about why powerful people are so compelling and how it makes making decisions even harder and how to even know who in the room should be making the decision, and being willing to listen to good idea
Listen Now: Samantha Bee on Longer Tables with José Andrés
Samantha Bee joins fellow immigrant and world-renowned chef José Andrés on his podcast Longer Tables for a conversation about food, life, and everything in between. In Longer Tables with José Andrés, José explores the powerful ways food connects us and shapes our world. Each episode features deep, engaging conversations with friends from the culinary world and beyond—like Stacey Abrams, Ron Howard, Jane Goodall, Eric Ripert, and more. Plus, Jos&eacut
Presenting: My So-Called Midlife with Reshma Saujani
This week, we’re thrilled to introduce My So-Called Midlife, a new podcast by Reshma Saujani and Lemonada Media. “Is this it?” That’s the question Reshma Saujani, founder of two successful nonprofits, asks herself every day. She’s married to a great guy, raising two beautiful kids, and has achieved everything she thought she wanted—so why does midlife feel so… unfulfilling? Determined to find answers, and with her group chat cheering her on, Reshma
Introducing: Everything Happens with Kate Bowler
Are you living your best life now? Not always? Then you’d love this podcast- Everything Happens. Duke Professor Kate Bowler is an expert in the stories we tell about success and failure, suffering and happiness. She had Stage IV cancer. Then she didn’t. And since then, all she wants to do is talk to funny and wise people about how to live with the knowledge that, well, everything happens. Today’s conversation is all about the many loves that shape our lives—es
Stay Home or Hit The Road? (with Pete Holmes)
Comedian and host of You Made It Weird Pete Holmes joins Sam for an impromptu relationship podcast. Pete talks about the importance of choice of partner, and how the real test is to see if you and your partner would edit a movie in the same way. They talk about choosing to be alone in order to learn how to later be in a relationship, why Pete chooses to tour just once a month, and how he knows when he’s ready to film a new standup special. They also talk about the magic of seeing yourself
Sing Along or Sit in Silence? (with Taran Killam)
Actor Taran Killam joins Sam to talk about childhood decisions that changed his life—like deciding to go to the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts in order to get one more month of summer vacation. The two talk about the magic of live theater, being decisive but not in order to make good decisions, visiting the White House and seeing president Biden’s moon rock, and the ethics of singing in movie theaters. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date wit
Introducing: The Daily Beast Podcast with Samantha Bee and Joanna Coles
This week we're introducing you to Samantha Bee's other podcast, The Daily Beast Podcast. Each week, Samantha and co-host Joanna Coles navigate the latest in politics, pop culture and everything in between. This week they talk about the Menendez Brothers and interview movie producer Richard Curtis. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every
She Shed or Man Cave? (with Kathryn Hahn)
Actor Kathryn Hahn joins Sam from her “she shed” to talk about how important it is to try a decision on for size before you make it and how she’s very good at getting rid of stuff (except for her kids’ art projects). They talk about taking jobs to pay off student loans, the distinct wetness of pre-packaged hardboiled eggs, why moving to LA was never part of her plan, and watching their moms go through menopause. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with u
Red States or Red Carpets? (with Heather McMahan)
Comedian Heather McMahan joins Sam to talk about how she’s what you would get if Joan Rivers and Conan O’Brien had a baby, why she chose to self-produce her comedy special Breadwinner and the importance of being your own yes-man. They also talk about the joys of the human body, like ovarian cysts bursting on transatlantic flights, if there’s anything she doesn’t think her audience wants her to joke about (there isn’t), and why everyone is getting Plan B in their Christmas stockings this year. Pl
Gourmet or Go Home? (with Ruth Reichl)
Renowned restaurant critic, food writer, and magazine editor Ruth Reichl joins Sam to talk about why taking a job as the editor-in-chief of Gourmet Magazine was such a hard decision, and how it ended up changing her life. They talk about getting paid to do a job you would do for free, her new documentary “Food and Country,” thoughts on meal kits, and their recurring waitressing nightmares. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X,
Red, White, and Blue or Green…Card? (with Lauren Ash)
Fellow Canadian and actor Lauren Ash joins Sam to talk about why she continues to live on a Green Card rather than apply for US citizenship, and why on her 40th birthday she decided to try a career in music. She talks about why she’s not as easily swayed as when she was younger but how small decisions unravel her, and how helpful it is to have that special Canadian pragmatism. They also talk about what you lose with shorter seasons of TV, not getting SNL, and the everlasting importance of The Ro
Shy Voter or Vocal Voter? (with Errin Haines)
With less than two weeks until Election Day, editor-at-large of The 19th* Errin Haines joins Sam to talk about news coverage leading up to the most significant election in recent memory and whether or not shy voters will make a surprising difference. They talk about the importance of being open to the best idea in the room and how Errin sticks to a decision once she’s made it—unless it’s for a last-minute flight change—and how the biggest decision of her life was actually made for her—when her m
Dishwasher or Daredevil? (with Jenny Slate)
Jenny Slate sits down with Sam to talk about the difference between FOMO and regret and how sometimes you need to bust through a wall to take a big swing. Jenny talks about how she is naturally risk averse and giving birth was the most dangerous (and best) situation she ever put herself in. They talk about Jenny’s need to do the dishes before she can enjoy a meal and philosophize over the clothes that ghosts in the future will wear—perhaps athleisure? Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Ins
Monthly Magazines or Nonstop News? (with Joanna Coles)
Joanna Coles, the Chief Content Officer of The Daily Beast sits down with Sam to talk about deciding to leave the never-ending cycle of daily news for a slightly more dependable pace of monthly magazines…and then returning to news after two decades away. They talk about seeing George Clooney in the flesh, the beauty of shopping on resale websites, getting nutritional advice on TikTok and how neither of them has ever met Donald Trump. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And
Basketball Star or Bipartisan Leader? (with Governor Maura Healey)
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey joins Sam to talk about trading her career as a (yes) professional basketball player in Austria for law school and later to serve as Attorney General and Governor of Massachusetts. They talk about how Governor Healey happily works across the aisle with non-crazy Republican colleagues, and why some of them are voting for Kamala Harris. They talk about struggling with small decisions like choosing household items, her stint as a cocktail waitress, and of course,
Seat-Filler or Superdelegate? (with Jon Cryer)
Jon Cryer joins Sam to talk about how he chooses his acting roles when he knows saying yes to one job means having to turn down another, and tells Sam about a huge role he passed up. They also get into it about a raccoon that steals his delivery food, why he gets recognized at the Frankfurt airport, and being a seat-filler at the DNC. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors
List Maker or List Keeper? (with Mackenzie Davis)
Actor Mackenzie Davis joins Sam to talk about how she took a semester off from college to model–hated it–and ultimately decided to go back to school and fast track her degree so that she could start acting. They bond over seeing baking directions as meditational, learning lines while cooking, and how making lists and keeping lists are two different skills. Check out Mackenzie’s new film, Speak No Evil, which is out now. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to dat
Camper or Cosmopolitan? (with Shailene Woodley)
Actor Shailene Woodley joins Sam to talk about a pivotal decision she made to move to Europe and live out of a carry-on suitcase for ten years amid a blossoming Hollywood career. Shailene tells Sam that she would pick up dishwashing shifts when she needed money and how living in Europe taught her to see how Americans and Europeans talk about sex and bodies differently. Plus they talk about needing to make decisions even when you’re terrified by them, being a climate activist despite not loving t
Actor or Annapolis? (with Carrie Coon)
Carrie Coon joins Samantha Bee to discuss being a classic midwestern middle child, almost attending a naval academy, how the first decision she ever made in her life was to go to graduate school, why comedians are the darkest people, and how when she was younger she would collect boyfriends and leave the country rather than break up with them (didn’t we all??). Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram. For
Democracy or Else (with Jon Lovett)
Crooked Media’s Jon Lovett joins Sam to debrief the DNC and why Chicago is the perfect combination of sweatpants and sandwich town. They discuss his decision to go on Survivor and why it’s the best way to see how democracy works up close. Plus, Sam and Jon get into why movies are too long, the best way to moderate debates, and the power of young people persuading other young people to vote. Go to votesaveamerica.com to see how you can help. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram an
Make History or Repeat History? (with Symone Sanders Townsend)
Co-host of MSNBC’s The Weekend and former senior advisor to Vice President Harris Symone Sanders Townsend joins Sam for DNC week! Sam and Symone talk about how as kids they both hosted fake news shows, where she was when she heard President Biden was ending his campaign, why Symone had to make a pro/con list when deciding to leave the White House, being a risk-taker, and why voters like making history—and hopefully will again soon. MSNBC will host MSNBC Live: Democracy 2024 on September 7, at t
Hot or Not? (with Tony Goldwyn)
Actor and activist Tony Goldwyn joins Sam and talks about how he rides the waves of success—sometimes people want you and sometimes they don’t—and how he’s learned to be ok not chasing roles that weren’t right for him. They also talk about how at a pivotal moment in his career Tony decided to stay in New York and do a small Off-Broadway play rather than chase the LA scene. He tells Sam that since playing a president on Scandal people have come to him for presidential advice, how he actually has
Understand or Ignore: America’s Gun Problem (with Roxane Gay)
In her new essay, “Stand Your Ground: A Black Feminist Reckoning with America’s Gun Problem,” Roxane Gay details her decision to become a gun owner and why she doesn’t think the US has missed its window on meaningful gun control. Sam and Roxane also discuss why you never want to peak in high school, the shift to writing for TV, and how the worst four words in the English language are “hop on a call.” “Stand Your Ground: A Black Feminist Reckoning with America’s Gun Problem” is available now. It’
Choices We Made: Make Comedy or Watch Comedy? (with Nick Kroll)
When comedian Nick Kroll decided to end his hit show “Kroll Show” he wasn’t totally sure what he would do next. But it was important to him to decide something was done rather than drag it out. Sam asks Nick about how he’s so good at zeroing in on what he genuinely wants, finding the funniest people in the room to make Big Mouth, and how to decide if he should keep his family out of his standup material. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @Lemon
Theater or Therapist? (with Rachel Dratch)
When Rachel Dratch was growing up, she figured she’d have some sort of “normal” career like therapist. Then she saw a performance of Annie and thought she could be one of the people on stage too. Sam talks to Rachel about how important it is to ask for the parts you want (and then winning a Tony for it), how the biggest thing that ever happened to her wasn’t even a choice, how improv can even make a “lazy pisces” live in the moment, ordering the worst thing on the menu, and accidentally going vi
NYU or Nowhere? (with Paul Scheer)
When Paul Scheer was a senior in high school he decided that he would only apply to NYU because if it was good enough for Theo Huxtable, it was good enough for him. Sam talks to Paul about decisions he’s made since then (not based on Theo Huxtable), like having kids and deciding what kind of parent to be. They bond over being “latchkey kids,” the crazy stories their grandmothers used to tell them, seeing movies in theaters, and what their ideal sex-ed class looks like. See omnystudio.com/listene
International Relations or International Popstar? (with Rachel Platten)
While in college, Rachel Platten was on the path to a career in international relations. But then she decided to switch course and swap a semester abroad in Spain for a semester abroad in Trinidad where she fell in love with music. She now has a song that has been streamed more than a billion times (Fight Song) and a new album “I Am Rachel Platten” out at the end of the summer. Rachel talks to Sam about the impact postpartum depression has had on her music, how she loves having bossy friends, an
Doctor or Doc…umentary Filmmaker? (with Joy-Ann Reid)
When MSNBC host Joy-Ann Reid was growing up she was expected to be a doctor, lawyer, or architect. Then she decided to drop out of Harvard, ditch her doctor aspirations, and re-enroll as a documentary film major. These days the biggest decision Joy makes every day is deciding what news stories to include in her show The ReidOut. Sam talks to Joy about what qualifies as “breaking news,” why she doesn’t believe undecided voters, and her new book “Medgar and Myrlie” and why it’s so important for Ci
College or Kitchen? (with Alison Roman)
While a student, Alison Roman made a life-changing decision to leave college to start working in a restaurant kitchen and has never looked back. Sam talks to Alison about being such a decisive person, creating viral recipes, the magic of pasta water, weighing information and intuition and making the content for yourself that you wish to see in the world when no one else will make it for you. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X
Woman in Late Night or Woman on Tour? (with Taylor Tomlinson)
When Taylor Tomlinson was interviewing to be the host of After Midnight, she wasn’t even sure she wanted the job. She loved making her own schedule as a touring stand up comedian, and loved her road family. But when the network said she would still have time to be on the road, it was an easy decision to say yes. Sam asks Taylor about how the stakes of her decision making have gotten higher now that other people work for her, choosing to be part of a team, getting advice from other female comedia
Make Comedy or Watch Comedy? (with Nick Kroll)
When comedian Nick Kroll decided to end his hit show “Kroll Show” he wasn’t totally sure what he would do next. But it was important to him to decide something was done rather than drag it out. Sam asks Nick about how he’s so good at zeroing in on what he genuinely wants, finding the funniest people in the room to make Big Mouth, and how to decide if he should keep his family out of his standup material. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @Lemon
Presenting Wild Card with Rachel Martin
Here’s some good news! Choice Words is coming back for season two on June 13th! Get ready for more amazing (and questionable) choices from great guests like Nick Kroll, who we’ll be kicking things off with. In the meantime, today we’re bringing you a special new podcast from our friends at NPR: Wild Card with Rachel Martin. On the show, Rachel rips up the typical interview script and invites guests to play a game about life's biggest questions. In this episode, Rachel talks to Jenny Slate, known
Choices We Made: Logic or Emotion? (with Stephen Dubner)
As the author and podcast host of “Freakonomics,” Stephen Dubner spends a lot of time thinking about and studying what goes into good decision-making. In one of our favorite episodes from the vault, he gives Sam tips on balancing logic with emotion, offers ways to use your imagination to help you make a choice, and defends the coin-flip method. Follow Stephen Dubner @Freakonomics on X. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Face
Choices We Made: Honest Conversations or Family Secrets? (with Laura Dern and Diane Ladd)
When Laura Dern found out that her mother, Diane Ladd, had scarring on her lungs, the doctor told her to be gentle with her mom because she’d be dead in 6 months. Laura chose to challenge that diagnosis by taking her mother on regular walks to expand her lung capacity. Not only did it work, but it turned into a new book co-written by the two award-winning actresses. In one of our favorite episodes from the vault, Sam asks the mother-daughter duo how those walks saved Diane’s life and what family
From A Slight Change of Plans: “The Science of Making (and Keeping) Friends”
We’re bringing you an episode of A Slight Change of Plans from our friends at Pushkin. Named by Apple as the Best Show of the Year 2021, host Dr. Maya Shankar blends compassionate storytelling with the science of human behavior to help us understand who we are, and who we become, in the face of a big change. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Marisa Franco argues that it's a mistake to prioritize romantic and familial relationships over friendships. Strong, supportive friendships expand our sense
Listen Now: Fail Better with David Duchovny
We are dropping in your feed today to tell you about a new Lemonada Media series called Fail Better with David Duchovny. On Fail Better, David, who has experienced both low and high profile failures throughout his life, explores the vast world of failure - how it holds us back, propels us forward, and ultimately shapes our lives. Each week, he will chat with guests like Ben Stiller, Bette Midler, and more about how our perceived failures have actually been our biggest catalysts for growth, revel
Kierkegaard or Californication? (with David Duchovny)
When actor David Duchovny was teaching his daughter to ride a bike, he made the questionable choice of taking her to the top of a grassy hill at Pepperdine University in Malibu and pointing her straight downhill toward Highway 1. Luckily she learned (quickly) how to brake, but he realized not all of his ideas are good ones. In fact, some are failures. Sam asks David how to view failure through a positive lens, why it’s so hard for Americans to admit defeat, and why Yale is still waiting for him
Choices We Made: Family Secrets or Big Reveal? (with Kerry Washington)
When actor Kerry Washington’s parents told her a massive family secret five years ago, it shook her entire world. And despite being an extremely private person, Kerry decided to reveal this shocking information in her memoir, “Thicker Than Water.” In one of our favorite episodes from the vault, Sam and Kerry discuss how learning this truth helped Kerry know herself for the first time in her life and what made her want to share her story with the world. Plus, how Kerry feels about people’s inabil
Choices We Made: Express Your Grief or Keep It In? (with Rob Delaney)
When actor Rob Delaney’s two-and-a-half-year-old son Henry died, Rob decided to share his family’s experience with Henry’s illness and death with the world. What emerged was the deeply personal memoir, “A Heart That Works.” In this best-of episode from 2023, Sam asks Rob about how his approach to his career shifted after Henry passed away, a seemingly small choice he made at a recovery meeting that ultimately changed the trajectory of his life, and his thoughts on the platform formerly known as
Choices We Made: Baby or Facelift? (with Rosie O'Donnell)
When Rosie O’Donnell chose to step away from her talk show after six successful seasons, her actor friends thought she was out of her mind. In one of our favorite episodes from the vault, Sam asks Rosie what went into that professional choice as well as a personal one: celebrating her 50th by adopting a baby. Rosie relives moments like drunk-dialing Oprah, fighting with Eileen Fisher, and uttering a sentence that’s never been said in Hollywood. Follow Rosie O’Donnell @Rosie on TikTok, Instagram,
Listen Now: Last Day (with Christine Blasey Ford)
Sam wants to introduce you to another great show from Lemonada Media. Last Day is about the moments that change us fundamentally and forever. Each week, host and Lemonada co-founder Stephanie Wittels Wachs sits down with a new guest to explore happy/sad stories of survival, resilience, and transformation. In this episode, Stephanie speaks with Christine Blasey Ford, whose life changed forever when she raised her hand in the U.S. Senate chamber and vowed to tell nothing but the truth about being
Purpose or Pooltime? (with Nick Offerman)
When actor Nick Offerman first got together with actress Megan Mullally, she had just won her first Emmy for Will and Grace and he was living in a dirt basement in Silver Lake. They bought a fancy house, he jumped into his new swimming pool and got through about a song and a half before realizing he couldn’t lay around smoking weed and listening to Neil Young all day. Sam asks Nick how he brings purpose into his life no matter what he’s doing, from grocery shopping to starring in a new film like
Listen Now: Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus
We’re dropping in your feed to let you know that Julia Louis-Dreyfus has returned for Season 2 of her award-winning podcast, Wiser Than Me™! Each week, she has funny, touching, personal conversations with iconic older women who are brimming with the kind of unapologetic attitude and wisdom that only comes with age. Julia sits at the feet of some extraordinary teachers this season, and of course her 90-year-old mom, Judy. Tune in to laugh, cry and get wise. All Hail Old Women! You’re about to
Wedding Registry or Divorce Sale? (with Busy Philipps)
At the beginning of the pandemic, when wildfire ash was falling on actor Busy Philipps’ face, she and her family made the unlikely decision to move to New York City. The choice paid off in the form of a phone call from Tina Fey asking her to audition for a new TV show, Girls5eva. Now in its third season, Sam asks Busy about the choices she’s made since then, including a divorce sale, a large donation to support abortion access, and a new late night talk show. Follow Busy Philipps @busyphilipps o
Babes or Babies? (Live from SXSW with Ilana Glazer, Pamela Adlon, and Michelle Buteau)
In celebration of Women’s History Month, Sam joins Ilana Glazer, Pamela Adlon, and Michelle Buteau live from SXSW to talk about their new film, ‘Babes.’ The movie, which debuted in Austin and hits theaters on May 17, is all about female friendship and the truly insane surprises of pregnancy and childbirth. The writer/director/actor trio get real with Sam about motherhood, orgasms, and why certain people want to keep women in the dark about their bodies. Follow Ilana Glazer @ilana, Pamela Adlon @
Jump Out or Get Pushed? (with Roy Wood Jr.)
When Roy Wood Jr. was arrested for stealing a credit card at 19 years old, he thought his life was over. While awaiting his sentencing and with nothing to lose, he decided to finally try standup comedy. He was a natural, and when the judge decided to give him probation over prison, he decided to pursue comedy for real. Roy talks about learning how to perform in the South, why he’d rather jump out of a window than be pushed, and his big decision to leave The Daily Show. Follow Roy Wood Jr. @royw
From Dear Prudence: "Is It Okay to Ghost A Friend? Help!" (with Roxane Gay)
We’re bringing you an episode of Dear Prudence from our friends at Slate. In this episode, Roxane Gay (best-selling author of Bad Feminist and Opinions) joins Prudie (Jenée Desmond-Harris) to answer letters from readers about how to decline a colleague’s invitation to dinner, when it’s okay to ghost a friend for good reasons, and what to do when you’re burned out on dating apps. Follow Dear Prudence to never miss an episode: https://slate.com/human-interest/dear-prudence. Keep up with Samantha B
Tech Bros or Tech Scoops? (with Kara Swisher)
Tech journalist Kara Swisher was five years old when her father died, teaching her from a young age that time is precious and she didn’t want to waste a single minute of it. Sam asks her how that lesson translates into her choices today, from abruptly leaving jobs to asking prominent people blunt and uncomfortable questions. Kara shares her opinion on Biden’s age, offers tips on cutting through bullshit, and commiserates with Sam over the tech bros she chronicles in her new book, “Burn Book: A T
Have It All or Have Enough? (with Chris Gethard)
At the height of comedian Chris Gethard’s career, he was hosting his own show and making more money than ever. Yet, his teeth were falling out from the stress and unhappiness of it all. Now, he plays dinosaurs with his son, volunteers with his local ambulance, and says his life is one hundred times less cool but a thousand times happier. Sam asks Chris about the choices he made to create a more well rounded life and how to define enough. Follow Chris Gethard @chrisgeth on TikTok, @chrisgeth on I
Listen Now: When We Win
Today, we are dropping in your feed to introduce you to When We Win, a new podcast from Lemonada Media that asks, is the impossible possible? What will it take to create a truly engaged democracy that represents all of us? Each week, Maya Rupert talks to some of the most incredible women of color in office today who ran against insurmountable odds and won, from the all-women city council in St. Paul, Minnesota, to the youngest Black woman to serve in Congress. So stop asking yourself if we can w
Choices We Made: Live in Fear or Love? (with Karamo)
When Karamo was 15 years old, he came out as gay to his best friend. That didn’t stop her from convincing him to lose their virginity together and ten years later, he found out he had a son. In one of our favorite episodes from the vault, Sam asks Karamo about the choices he made to forgive his friend, take custody of his son, and stop living in fear. They talk about his experience as the first openly gay Black man on reality TV, how his social work background helped him land his iconic role on
Valentines or Galentines? (with Lane Moore)
When Tinder first came out in 2012, former Cosmopolitan sex and relationships’ editor Lane Moore knew she needed to turn it into a comedy show. Now, she tours the world riffing on ridiculous profiles, swiping right alongside a live audience, and sharing in the humor and misery of online dating. Sam asks Lane what to watch out for in dating profiles, when it’s time to end things with a friend, and how writing books like her latest, “You’re Not the Only One F*cking Up: Breaking the Endless Cycle o
Choices We Made: Stay Silent or Sue the Cops? (with Eric André)
When comedian Eric André was boarding a flight in Atlanta, Georgia, he was “randomly” picked out of line by cops and searched for drugs. Instead of chalking the experience up to yet another racist day in America, he decided to sue the Clayton County Police Department for racial profiling. In one of our favorite episodes from 2023, Sam asks Eric what went into making that choice, why he no longer works in coffee shops, and how one prank on his show led to his arrest. Follow Eric André @ericfuckin
Better Choices in 2024: Glow or Burn Out? (with Tara Schuster)
Author Tara Schuster grew up in a neglectful, abusive household where “things came to die,” as she puts it. After a suicidal episode at age 25, she began a journey to reparent herself which led to two practical self-help books, “Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies,” and “Glow in the F*cking Dark.” Tara teaches Sam how to use a “values filter” to make choices, why unfollowing a friend on social media may be the best thing you can do for yourself, and how journaling unlocks your soul. Follow Tara Schu
Better Choices in 2024: Logic or Emotion? (with Stephen Dubner)
As the author and podcast host of “Freakonomics,” Stephen Dubner spends a lot of time thinking about and studying what goes into good decision-making. He gives Sam tips on balancing logic with emotion, offers ways to use your imagination to help you make a choice, and defends the coin-flip method. Follow Stephen Dubner @Freakonomics on X (formerly Twitter). Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X (formerly Twitt
Better Choices in 2024: Sunday Supper or Taco Tuesday? (with Samin Nosrat)
When chef and cookbook author (“Salt Fat Acid Heat”) Samin Nosrat bought a house in Oakland, she aspired to host big Sunday dinners with friends. Then COVID hit, those dinners got postponed, and Samin spiraled down into deep loneliness and depression. She tells Sam how she turned her sadness around by reigniting that passion to gather, cook, and eat together. Sam also asks Samin why so many new year resolutions center around eating, and gets a sneak peek inside her next cookbook! Follow Samin No
Better Choices in 2024: Give Advice or Take It? (with Sarah Silverman)
Let’s make better choices in 2024! But how? Is it about following good advice? Is there a scientific method? Can everyone do it? Each week in January, Sam will go beyond superficial hacks and get at the truth of how to lead a more meaningful life, starting with comedian Sarah Silverman. Sam asks Sarah about the advice she offers strangers on The Sarah Silverman Podcast, the one best choice she made in 2023, and what to do if you’re paralyzed with indecision. Follow Sarah Silverman @sarahkatesilv
Listen Now: The Deep Dive
This week, The Choice Words team is sharing Sam’s recent appearance on The Deep Dive!
Each week, comedians and best friends Jessica St. Clair and June Diane Raphael take a ‘deep dive’ into their real lives and discuss a wide range of topics including how to pursue joy amidst the insanity of motherhood and family, grief and loss, sh*t they put on their faces, and why they refuse to check their voicemails or unpack their suitcases. The Deep Dive captures the friendship of two women trying to surv
Listen Now: The Dough
Sam wants to introduce you to a show from Lemonada Media that she thinks you’ll like: The Dough. The Dough is an eye-opening new 10-episode podcast series about the financial trapdoors any of us could fall into. From messy divorces to wellness products that are too good to be true, join host X Mayo (The Blackening, The Daily Show, Swarm) as she explores the financial flops and money myths that stand in the way of financial freedom. On this show, cash is queen. We hardly know her, but we're deter
Chicken or Fish? (with Chelsea Peretti)
Comedian and actress Chelsea Peretti isn’t great at making choices. She likes to vacillate between different options, from acting in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” to directing the feature film “First Time Female Director,” to launching the podcast “Call Chelsea Peretti” back in 2012. Sam asks her which comedy movies were most influential to her growing up, how stand-up can feel both energizing and lonely, and why she keeps bringing her phone with her during bath time. Follow Chelsea Peretti @chelsanity
Gossip Girl or Too Cool for School? (with Penn Badgley)
When actor Penn Badgley was offered the role of Dan Humphrey in “Gossip Girl,” he initially turned it down because it wasn’t interesting enough. He also turned down the role of Joe Goldberg in “You” because he didn’t want to glorify a serial killer. Sam asks Penn what led him to change his mind on these two career-defining shows, how his Baháʼí faith helps him make decisions, and why you won’t be seeing him on crypto ads anytime soon. Follow Penn Badgley @PennBadgley on Instagram and Twitter. Ke
Keep Acting or Run for Political Office? (with June Diane Raphael)
When President Trump was elected in 2016, comedian June Diane Raphael considered dropping everything (except her new baby) and running for local office. Instead, she chose to write a book helping other women do it. In some small part, that decision led to 2018’s record year of women winning seats in office. Sam asks June where her propensity for sharp decision making comes from, whether having kids helped or hurt her career, and why she prefers true crime over comedies. Follow June Diane Raphael
Listen Now: I Need To Ask You Something
We’re off this week but wanted to share a new Lemonada Media series with you that we know you'll love. It's called I Need To Ask You Something.We all have terrifying questions that we can’t stop thinking about. Did I make the right decision as a parent? Can I share a secret with my mother or father? Usually, these questions go unanswered because it’s too scary to imagine saying them out loud. This is the place where young people and caring adults in their lives can ask the hardest questions of e
Listen to Your Inner Voice or Suppress It? (with Raquel Willis)
When author and activist Raquel Willis came out to her parents, they didn’t both react positively at first. While that was hard for her, she did not let it stop her from continuing to come out to others and live her truth as a proud trans woman. Sam asks Raquel how online forums helped her find community when she was a young queer person, why she wishes more members of the mainstream media would trade in their “objectivity” for empathy, and what she would like young people to learn in school abo
Listen Now: The Defenders
We are dropping in your feed to share Lemonada Media's newest series, The Defenders. On Friday, June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Since then, it's been a barrage of bad news and bleak headlines. But for every restriction, there are many more acts of resistance, and a growing network of activists, clinic workers, faith leaders, and everyday people working to expand access to care.This is the story of the fight for freedom in a post-Roe America, co-hosted by Samantha Be
Star on Broadway or Bail? (with Ellie Kemper)
When actress and comedian Ellie Kemper was supposed to make her Broadway debut a few months ago, she was so nervous she kinda hoped she’d get sick and be unable to take the stage. Many negative COVID tests later, she made it through her show’s run, but did end up losing her voice at the end due to stress and anxiety. Sam asks Ellie if she’d consider upping the fear factor and doing a one-woman live stage show and if she’s good at setting boundaries for herself at work. Plus, a surprisingly in-de
Vote in the House of Representatives or Keep Talking to Sam? (with Rep. Ro Khanna)
When Congressman Ro Khanna has a big decision to make, he wants to gather all relevant information and hear many differing opinions before he makes up his mind. When he’s at home, he defers to his wife. (Smart man.) Sam asks Rep. Khanna what it feels like to make decisions that affect millions of people, how he stays optimistic about progress when things feel so dire, and what the heck is going on with House Republicans. Plus, Rep. Khanna makes a choice in real time when the vote buzzer goes off
To Post or Not To Post? (with Rachel Bloom)
When Rachel Bloom was making a name for herself in comedy, she shared her life openly online. Then she became a mom and realized she wanted her daughter to decide for herself how online she would be. Sam asks Rachel how she balances her instinct to overshare with her desire to keep her child’s life out of the public eye, how she came to combine her love for sketch comedy with her background in musical theater, and what she means when she tells Sam she fears creative atrophy.
Follow Rachel Blo
Writing Books or Doing Standup? Or Podcasting? Or Producing? Or Acting? (with Phoebe Robinson)
When Sam asked multihyphenate entertainer Phoebe Robinson what professional endeavor she’d pick if she could only choose one, Phoebe realized her answer was a recent shift in opinion for her. The writer-producer-podcaster-actor-comedian has recently rediscovered the joy of standup comedy. Sam and Phoebe get into why Phoebe used to dread every standup set, the freedom she gained when she realized it’s impossible to make everyone laugh, and how she’s learning to trust her gut more. Follow Phoeb
Comedy at 10am or 10pm? (with Maria Bamford)
When comedian Maria Bamford recently did some shows in LA and New York, she decided to perform her set early in the morning. Despite some “goofballs” who fell asleep, the time change from a traditional late night start was a solid choice for her. Sam asks Maria how her family feels about being such a big part of her comedy, why it’s important for her to talk openly about money, and her new memoir, “Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult.” Apple Books has teamed up with Lemonada Media for an audiobook clu
Family Secrets or Big Reveal? (with Kerry Washington)
When actress Kerry Washington’s parents told her a massive family secret five years ago, it shook her entire world. And despite being an extremely private person, Kerry decided to reveal this shocking information in her new memoir, “Thicker Than Water.” Sam and Kerry discuss how learning this truth helped Kerry truly know herself for the first time in her life and what made her want to share her story with the world. Plus, how Kerry feels about people’s inability to differentiate her from Olivia
Go Big or Stay Home? (with Senator Tina Smith)
When Tina Smith was lieutenant governor of Minnesota, she was asked to fill the U.S. Senate vacancy created when Al Franken resigned in 2018. She’s been a force to be reckoned with ever since, fighting for abortion rights, mental health care, the environment, and much more. In this conversation taped before a live audience for MinnPost Festival in Minneapolis, Sam asks Senator Smith how she decides which issues to advocate for, why she believes that reproductive freedom is indeed a winning polit
Live in Fear or Love? (with Karamo)
When Karamo was 15 years old, he came out as gay to his best friend. That didn’t stop her from convincing him to lose their virginity together and ten years later, he found out he had a son. Sam asks Karamo about the choices he made to forgive his friend, take custody of his son, and stop living in fear. They talk about his experience as the first openly gay Black man on reality TV, how his social work background helped him land his iconic role on “Queer Eye,” and the best ways to break through
Stay Silent or Sue the Cops? (with Eric André)
When comedian Eric André was boarding a flight in Atlanta, Georgia, he was “randomly” picked out of line by cops and searched for drugs. Instead of chalking the experience up to yet another racist day in America, he decided to sue the Clayton County Police Department for racial profiling. Sam asks Eric what went into making that choice, why he no longer works in coffee shops, and how one prank on his show led to his arrest. Follow Eric André @ericfuckingandre on Instagram and @ericandre on Twitt
Live with Shame or Confront It? (with Ricki Lake)
When Ricki Lake hosted her eponymous talk show in the 1990s, she wore hairpieces and extensions to hide the fact that her hair was thinning. After decades of privately feeling shame about her hair, Ricki learned she had androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss in both men and women. Sam asks Ricki about her decision to go public with her alopecia diagnosis, how she landed the gig hosting her talk show when she was only 23 years old, and the 35th anniversary of her star-making role as Tr
Stay in the White House or Binge HGTV? (with Alyssa Mastromonaco)
When Alyssa Mastromonaco was Deputy Chief of Staff in the Obama Administration, there was a point in time when she was averaging two hours of sleep per night. After a doctor’s visit confirmed she was exceedingly sleep deprived, she decided it was time to leave the White House after working for President Obama for nearly 10 years. Sam asks Alyssa what it was like to go from that high-stakes environment to watching HGTV all day, what made her decide that she’s never wearing Spanx again, and how sh
Ruby Tuesday or Drag Brunch? (with Bob the Drag Queen)
When Bob the Drag Queen was broke and working at a Ruby Tuesday in Georgia, a theater friend offered to buy his ticket to New York City if he promised to leave right away. The decision to take that ticket changed the entire trajectory of his life. Sam asks Bob how he went from performing in children's theater to drag brunches, where he received the most heat while filming the HBO reality series “We’re Here,” and why our politics seem to be backsliding into a sinkhole. Follow Bob the Drag Queen @
Do It All or Delegate? (with Governor Gretchen Whitmer)
When Governor Gretchen Whitmer was at the start of her political career, she found herself caring for both her newborn daughter and her mother, who was dying from brain cancer. The choice to become her mother’s primary caregiver as a new legislator, mom, and wife taught her to stay focused on what matters and not get distracted by things that don’t. Sam asks Governor Whitmer how she handles haters, what’s front of mind as we enter the 2024 presidential election season, and why there needs to be
Listen Now: Hysteria
Today as a special treat, we’re sharing an episode of Hysteria from Crooked Media featuring our very own Samantha Bee! Each week on Hysteria, political commentator and comedy writer Erin Ryan and former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco are joined by a bicoastal squad of funny, opinionated women to talk through everything from reproductive rights to romcoms. They break down the political news of the week, plus the topics, trends, and cultural stories that affect women’s li
Express Your Grief or Keep It In? (with Rob Delaney)
When actor Rob Delaney’s two-and-a-half-year-old son Henry died, Rob decided to share his family’s experience with Henry’s illness and death with the world. What emerged was the deeply personal memoir, “A Heart That Works.” Sam asks Rob about how his approach to his career shifted after Henry passed away, a seemingly small choice he made at a recovery meeting that ultimately changed the trajectory of his life, and his thoughts on the platform formerly known as Twitter going off the rails. Follow
Postal Uniform or Power Suit? (with Amber Ruffin)
When Amber Ruffin was living in Omaha, Nebraska, she figured she’d stay there forever – carrying the mail, buying a home, and maybe doing some community theater. Then she attended the Chicago Improv Festival with her Omaha improv group, and decided to pack up and move to the Windy City and give full-time comedy a try. Sam asks her how she got from improv to hosting her own late night TV show, her Tony Award-winning turn as a Broadway writer, and how she finds her amazing wardrobe of suits. Fol
Barnard or Big Screen? (with Greta Gerwig)
When Greta Gerwig is directing a film, each choice feels like the next move in a dance. When she falls out of step, she just has to find the dance again. Sam asks her about the art of directing, why attending Barnard College changed her life, and if she played with Barbies growing up. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram and Twitter. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and eve
Brooklyn or Amsterdam? (with Michelle Buteau)
When comedian Michelle Buteau saw elementary school kids practice an active shooter drill, she questioned whether or not America was the right place to raise her newly born twins. Tack on Trump’s presidency and some not-so-choice Supreme Court justices, and her husband’s home country of the Netherlands started to look even more attractive. Sam asks Michelle whether her family’s summer in Amsterdam may turn into a permanent move, the perks of being an expat in Europe, and how her book, “Survival
Doting Housewife or Banned Author? (with Judy Blume)
When Judy Blume was 22 years old, she decided to defy her husband’s orders and vote for John F. Kennedy rather than Richard Nixon. That tiny act of rebellion in the ballot box became a defining moment in her life. Sam asks Judy how that set her off to become one of the top banned authors in the country, what her ideal sex ed curriculum looks like, and whether she’ll ever write a book about Margaret in menopause. Follow Judy Blume @judyblume on Twitter and @judyblume4real on Instagram. Keep up wi
Calm Extrovert or Manic Introvert? (with Betty Gilpin)
When actor Betty Gilpin was simultaneously filming “Masters of Sex” and doing wrestling training to prepare for “Glow” (oh, and planning her wedding), she went into full upper body muscle spasms. Her nervous system was having a panic attack. Sam asks Betty how that moment taught her to slow down and changed the way she approached her life and career. They also discuss horse feuds, fake authenticity, and why we need to stop calling women badass. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsambee on Instagram
Actor or Lawyer? (with Uzo Aduba)
When two-time Emmy-winning actor Uzo Aduba was in high school, she thought she was going to be a lawyer. Then her creative writing teacher asked her if she’d ever considered going to art school, which introduced a choice to Uzo that she didn’t even know existed. Sam asks Uzo how she chooses her projects, including her upcoming Netflix series "Painkiller," and about the day she decided to quit acting, which then turned into the day she booked "Orange Is the New Black." Follow Uzo Aduba online @U
Honest Conversations or Family Secrets? (with Laura Dern and Diane Ladd)
When Laura Dern found out that her mother, Diane Ladd, had scarring on her lungs, the doctor told her to be gentle with her mom because she’d be dead in 6 months. Laura chose to challenge that diagnosis by taking her mother on regular walks to expand her lung capacity. Not only did it work, but it turned into a new book co-written by the two award-winning actresses. Sam asks the mother-daughter duo how those walks saved Diane’s life and what family stories and secrets were uncovered during those
America’s Sweetheart or Media Mogul? (with Katie Couric)
When Katie Couric was leaving CBS News as the first solo female anchor of a nightly news broadcast on a major network, she read a handwritten note from a former colleague that informed her next choice. Sam asks Katie about that moment and other big ones, like interviewing Sarah Palin at a pivotal moment in the 2008 presidential election and building her own media company. Katie talks about why she waited to have kids, whether her moniker of “America’s Sweetheart” holds true, and which stories sh
Stealing Cars or Sporting Goods? (with Judd Apatow)
When Judd Apatow was in sixth grade, he knew he wasn’t like the other kids. While everyone else played sports, he would come directly home from school to watch shows like M*A*S*H, The Odd Couple, and Monty Python. Sam asks Judd about his choice to write jokes for comics twice his age, where his unearned confidence came from, and how to stay humble in Hollywood. Plus, they swap crime stories, from changing the price tags on racquetball racquets to… stealing cars? Check out his new book, “Sicker i
Baby or Facelift? (with Rosie O'Donnell)
When Rosie O’Donnell chose to step away from her talk show after six successful seasons, her actor friends thought she was out of her mind. Sam asks Rosie what went into that professional choice as well as a personal one: celebrating her 50th by adopting a baby. Rosie relives moments like drunk-dialing Oprah, fighting with Eileen Fisher, and uttering a sentence that’s never been said in Hollywood. Follow Rosie O’Donnell @Rosie on TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter. Keep up with Samantha Bee @realsam
Choice Words with Samantha Bee (Official Trailer)
Samantha Bee is pro-choice. Yes, that one, but also others! Each week, Sam will sit down with people she admires to explore the biggest choices they’ve made in their lives and the ripple effects those decisions have had – the good, the bad, and everything in between. What wisdom can we glean from the choices made by some of the most successful people in film, comedy, music, sports, and politics? Find out on Choice Words, coming June 1.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coming Soon: Choice Words with Samantha Bee
Samantha Bee is coming back! Starting this June, Sam will talk to celebrities, politicians, journalists, chefs, artists, and athletes about the big choices they’ve had to make in life to get them to where they are today. Because she's not just pro-choice; she's pro-choices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: David Sedaris
Samantha Bee sits down with legendary writer and satirist David Sedaris to discuss his new book A Carnival of Snackery, picking up trash wherever he goes, Cat Scratch Fever, and why he never reads anything written about himself. Original release date: December 21, 2021.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Andrea Martin
Samantha Bee sits down with legendary comedic actress and fellow Canadian Andrea Martin to discuss the variety shows they grew up with, TikTok comedians, and working with everyone from John Candy to Jacques Lecoq. This episode was initially recorded for the Toronto Hot Docs Podcast Festival. Original release date: February 8, 2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Jeff Goldblum
Samantha Bee sits down with THE Jeff Goldblum to talk about returning to Jurassic Park, becoming a Prada model, moonlighting as a kids piano teacher, making ice cream and the beauty of tiny things. Original release date: March 1, 2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Sean Hayes
Samantha Bee sits down with actor, producer, and fellow podcaster Sean Hayes to discuss the movies they've never seen, bringing back celebrity poker tournaments, live theater, and plantar fasciitis and other medical issues she wants him to cover on his podcast HypocondriActor. Original release date: January 25, 2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Chelsea Handler
Samantha Bee sits down with comedian Chelsea Handler to talk about the questions they hate being asked, why she loves giving advice, starting therapy, becoming more political, and getting your period while wearing white pants. Original release date: March 15, 2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Elie Mystal
Samantha Bee sits down with author, lawyer, and commentator Elie Mystal to talk about his new book "Allow Me to Retort," going to law school with Tom Cotton, the need to get rid of the Electoral College, what rights SCOTUS might take away next, and Neil Gorsuch's ouija board. Original release date: April 19, 2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Pamela Adlon
For the Season Two finale, Samantha Bee sits down with actor Pamela Adlon to talk about ending her show Better Things, why Mother's Day is the worst day of the year, 80s afterschool specials and making enough lasagna to feed the fire department.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Elie Mystal
Samantha Bee sits down with author, lawyer, and commentator Elie Mystal to talk about his new book "Allow Me to Retort," going to law school with Tom Cotton, the need to get rid of the Electoral College, what rights SCOTUS might take away next, and Neil Gorsuch's ouija board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Michael Ian Black
Samantha Bee sits down with actor, comedian, and author Michael Ian Black to discuss putting a strip mall on the moon, strategies for dealing with online trolls, and the infamous pee tape. Plus they make a passionate plea for free Tostitos Hint of Lime.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Edi Patterson
Samantha Bee sits down with one of the stars of The Righteous Gemstones, Edi Patterson! They talk about sexy church outfits, their favorite TV shows growing up, and if doing improv is scarier than horror movies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Sue Bird
Samantha Bee sits down with WNBA star and style icon Sue Bird to talk about becoming an activist, why we'd all be better off if the WNBA was in charge of the country, what gives athletes a "cool factor" and if she and Megan Rapinoe will ever get into politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Ed Helms
Samantha Bee sits down with actor Ed Helms to discuss their formative years on The Daily Show, his new show True Story, the importance of diverse writing rooms, and why it's important to laugh at yourself.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Chelsea Handler
Samantha Bee sits down with comedian Chelsea Handler to talk about the questions they hate being asked, why she loves giving advice, starting therapy, becoming more political, and getting your period while wearing white pants.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release Presents: The Deep Dive
There's no new episode of Full Release today so in honor of International Women's Day check out another podcast we love with some very funny ladies, The Deep Dive with Jessica St. Clair and June Diane Raphael available wherever you're listening to this.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jeff Goldblum
Samantha Bee sits down with THE Jeff Goldblum to talk about returning to Jurassic Park, becoming a Prada model, moonlighting as a kids' piano teacher, making ice cream and the beauty of tiny things.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Stacey Abrams & Lara Hodgson
Samantha Bee sits down with Stacey Abrams and Lara Hodgson to discuss their new book Level Up, sleeping in six minute increments, why we need more female entrepreneurs, and why their official policy is "don't work with jerks."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #20
In a special President's Day bonus episode of Full Release, hear which former president Sam would most like to interview, what she'd do if one of her kids wanted to run for president, and which state she thinks should replace Iowa as the first to vote in 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bridget Everett
Samantha Bee sits down with the very funny Bridget Everett to talk about learning to accept compliments, writing for other characters, and getting advice from Patti LuPone. Don't listen if you haven't done the 2/2/22 Wordle yet!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Andrea Martin
Samantha Bee sits down with legendary comedic actress and fellow Canadian Andrea Martin to discuss the variety shows they grew up with, TikTok comedians, and working with everyone from John Candy to Jacques Lecoq. This episode was initially recorded for the Toronto Hot Docs Podcast Festival.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jonathan Van Ness
Samantha Bee sits down with "Queer Eye" star and host of "Getting Curious" Jonathan Van Ness to discuss how The Golden Girls shaped their lives, the upcoming Olympics, and where they do their best thinking.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Sean Hayes
Samantha Bee sits down with actor, producer, and fellow podcaster Sean Hayes to discuss the movies they've never seen, bringing back celebrity poker tournaments, live theater, and plantar fasciitis and other medical issues she wants him to cover on his podcast HypocondriActor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Ana Gasteyer
Samantha Bee sits down with the hilarious Ana Gasteyer to discuss apartment rats, collaborating with friends, sharing a gynecologist, and the possibility of returning to Broadway.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #19
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam make some big predictions for 2022--will this be the year she takes up Olympic curling? Maybe!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Marc Maron
Samantha Bee sits down with legendary comedian and podcaster Marc Maron and talks about driving in NYC, interacting with Instagram-live fans, the process of honing jokes, and why cats are impossible to work with. Original release date: November 30th, 2021.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Stanley Tucci
Samantha Bee sits down with actor, producer, author, and the internet's favorite bartender Stanley Tucci to discuss his new memoir, Taste, canning tomatoes, their favorite now-closed NYC restaurants, and why CNN's Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy was the ultimate passion project. Original release date: October 5th, 2021.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Happy 2022!
Samantha Bee reminds you that it's time to take down your tree and also that she'll be back with new episodes on January 18th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #18
In a special bonus NYE episode of Full Release, Sam says what she would put in a 2021 time capsule, what the midterms mean for the year ahead, and if she does New Year's resolutions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Repeat: Tig Notaro
Samantha Bee sits down with comedian Tig Notaro to talk about loving old people, cats that nurse raccoons, and her new animated comedy special, Drawn. Plus, Tig invites Sam's whole family to stay with her! Original release date: September 14th, 2021.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: David Sedaris
Samantha Bee sits down with legendary writer and satirist David Sedaris to discuss his new book A Carnival of Snackery, picking up trash wherever he goes, Cat Scratch Fever, and why he never reads anything written about himself. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #17
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam spreads the holiday cheer and shares her favorite Christmas movies, when it's time to take down the tree, and why panettone has got to go.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Phillip Picardi
Samantha Bee sits down with Phillip Picardi, former Chief Content Officer of Teen Vogue and current host of "Unholier Than Thou" on Crooked Media to talk about understanding teens, Hot Jesus, and how voting is the least we can do--not the most. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Fred Armisen
Samantha Bee sits down with actor, comedian, and drummer extraordinaire, Fred Armisen to discuss returning to live comedy shows, performing for an audience, why every house should have a drum set, the first concerts they ever went to and what it's like to meet your idols.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #16
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam throws her producer Adam a baby shower and answers all his newborn-related questions like how to stop photos of your baby from ending up on Baby Wiki-Feet. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Marc Maron
Samantha Bee sits down with legendary comedian and podcaster Marc Maron and talks about driving in NYC, interacting with Instagram-live fans, the process of honing jokes, and why cats are impossible to work with.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #15
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam goes into extreme detail on why in another life she would be a house cat, her thoughts on hosting a daytime show, and who she still would really love to interview.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: José Andrés
Samantha Bee sits down with chef and humanitarian José Andrés to talk about food insecurity, his new one billion dollar climate disaster fund, and if his work with World Central Kitchen basically makes him a small functioning government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Kal Penn
Samantha Bee sits down with Kal Penn to discuss the importance of letter-writing even though it's not as fun as tweeting, what his parents now think about his career, why Election Day is a Tuesday, and if we'll ever see an Ambassador Kal Penn (he hopes so!).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #14
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam admits to knowing nothing about Marvel movies but everything about ice cream sandwiches, talks about her favorite childhood Halloween costumes, and her thoughts on haunted houses. Spooky! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Rep. Cori Bush
Samantha Bee sits down with Congresswoman Cori Bush to discuss experiencing an insurrection three days into a new job, why Democrats so often need to be the adults in the room, and how thrifting is good for your look and the environment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Yamiche Alcindor
Samantha Bee sits down with journalist, White House Correspondent for PBS NewsHour, and host of Washington Week Yamiche Alcindor to talk about waking up to Trump tweets, meeting the legendary Gwen Ifill at the hair salon, the importance of open dialogue, and why her mom forced her to watch TV.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #13
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam discusses starting a book club, why one day we'll miss Fox News, and why school boards need to start offering free t-shirts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Rep. Adam Schiff
Samantha Bee sits down with Congressman Adam Schiff to discuss his new book, Midnight in Washington, if he thinks President Trump will ever run again, the California recall system, and his potential screenwriting career.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Adam Rippon
Samantha Bee sits down with Olympian Adam Rippon to discuss how to choose the music for your figure skating routine, begging people not to vote for Bob Dole, and the pivot from being an athlete to being an entertainer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #12
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam regales with stories about her Daily Show audition, traveling for Full Frontal segments, and talking to her kids about anti-vaxxers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Stanley Tucci
Samantha Bee sits down with actor, producer, author, and the internet's favorite bartender Stanley Tucci to discuss his new memoir, Taste, canning tomatoes, their favorite now-closed NYC restaurants, and why CNN's Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy was the ultimate passion project.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Tarana Burke
Samantha Bee sits down with activist, author, and founder of the Me Too movement, Tarana Burke to discuss her new memoir, Unbound, what it's like to realize Oprah knows your name, and if the world would have been a better place if we had just stuck with MySpace. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #11
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers your best questions about math homework, almost getting sued for a field piece, and the best and worst parts of the Biden administration so far. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Ken Burns
Samantha Bee sits down with legendary filmmaker Ken Burns to discuss his new project, Muhammad Ali, how to edit years worth of footage, the impact of streaming services, and working with your kids. Plus he dares to say there are too many podcasts--the horror!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Tig Notaro
Samantha Bee sits down with comedian Tig Notaro to talk about loving old people, cats that nurse raccoons, and her new animated comedy special, Drawn. Plus, Tig invites Sam's whole family to stay with her!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #10
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers more of your most pressing questions. Find out her take on Universal Basic Income, what she puts in her quiche, and why she won't let her kids play football.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Samantha Bee sits down with Joseph Gordon-Levitt to discuss how making music has changed in their lifetimes, what happens when tech gets ahead of the law, staying grateful, and the joys of visiting Sesame Street.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Sara Schaefer
Samantha Bee sits down with comedian Sara Schaefer to talk about releasing a book during a pandemic, her miniature comedy club the Haha Hole, and what's scarier — live TV or cliff jumps.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #9
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam gets you in the back-to-school spirit by answering your school questions! Find out what kind of high school student she was, and why she hates golf.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jen Psaki
Samantha Bee sits down with White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki to discuss her favorite parts of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill (hint: it's not the name), what to say to people who don't think childcare is infrastructure, and why people keep sending her hair berets (thanks Esther!).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bradley Whitford
Samantha Bee sits down with Emmy-nominee Bradley Whitford to discuss how The West Wing became "progressive porn," who in the Trump administration he would be cast to play, his new documentary Not Going Quietly, and his deep relationship with Sam's dad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #8
In a special spooky bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers listener questions with a Friday the 13th twist. Listen to find out her greatest phobia and her favorite scary movies. It'll be a scream!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Secretary Pete Buttigieg
Samantha Bee sits down with Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to talk about the bipartisan infrastructure bill, electric vehicles, and if he'd like to travel to Space. Listen now for some out of this world answers!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #7
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers your pressing Olympics questions! Listen to learn about her ideal opening ceremony and if she thinks they should have a permanent location. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: The Menopause Manifesto w/ Dr. Jen Gunter
In a special episode, Samantha Bee welcomes Twitter's unofficial gynecologist, Dr. Jen Gunter, back to the show to discuss her new book, The Menopause Manifesto, and tackle everything from reforming the word menopause, why women hate the word moist, and the joys of trolling dangerous feminine products on social media. This episode was initially recorded for the Commonwealth Club and Inforum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #6
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers listener questions and reveals why her Secret Service name would be Mom Jeans, how she's never been surprised in an interview, and why she worked at a bank as a child.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Rob Reiner
Samantha Bee sits down with the legendary actor and director Rob Reiner to discuss when she saw This Is Spinal Tap with her grandmother, why Ted Cruz loves The Princess Bride, and joining Twitter just to take on Donald Trump.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Roxane Gay
Samantha Bee sits down with Roxane Gay, The New York Times best-selling author of Bad Feminist, to discuss everything from fixing your own plumbing, to the problems facing the publishing industry, and dealing with Twitter trolls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #5
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam spreads the patriotic cheer and gets you in the mood for the Fourth of July. This is truly podcasting the way the Founding Fathers intended. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Tim Gunn
Samantha Bee sits down with fashion legend Tim Gunn to talk about how he ended up on TV, the message we all send with our clothes, and to finally settle the debate on skinny jeans once and for all. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Padma Lakshmi
Samantha Bee sits down with Padma Lakshmi to discuss the lasting impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry, how to look at the immigrant experience through food, why everyone should spend at least a year of their life working in the service industry, and how to run a show with "Big Uterus Energy."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #4
In a special bonus episode of Full Release Sam spills the T...V? Tune in to hear her answer some of your most pressing TV-related questions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Charlotte Clymer
Samantha Bee sits down with activist and writer Charlotte Clymer to discuss why the military has historically been a bellwether for equality, why Republicans are hell-bent on curtailing trans rights, and the arm workout that comes with using a typewriter. Plus some strong opinions on cherry pits!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bonus: Stitcher Premium Episode
In a free bonus episode of Full Release for Stitcher Premium, Sam answers listener questions about interviewing people who don't like her (wow, rude!), being a boss-ass-bitch, and her very specific surprising pet peeve about journalists.
Bonus: Stitcher Premium Episode
In a free bonus episode of Full Release for Stitcher Premium, Sam answers listener questions about interviewing people who don't like her (wow, rude!), being a boss-ass-bitch, and her very specific surprising pet peeve about journalists.
Full Release: Chris Bosh
Samantha Bee sits down with retired basketball star and Hall of Fame inductee Chris Bosh to talk about his new book Letters To A Young Athlete and discuss everything from paying student athletes and teaching his kids about civil rights, to living in the only fancy building in Toronto and keeping bees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #3
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers listener questions about interviewing people who don't like her (wow, rude!), being a boss-ass-bitch, and her very specific surprising pet peeve about journalists.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jaime Harrison
Samantha Bee sits down with DNC Chair Jaime Harrison to discuss the plan for the--gulp--2022 midterms, how to build on Joe Biden's early success, and how to turn off politics when it's your whole life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Sherrilyn Ifill
Samantha Bee sits down with the President and Director-Counsel of the NAACP-LDF Sherrilyn Ifill to discuss the one year anniversary of the killing of George Floyd, voter suppression tactics, and living in a world that is basically fact free.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions #2
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers listener questions and covers everything from her inability to meditate, candid thoughts on Josh Hawley, and how no one has ever offered her cocaine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Anna Faris
Samantha Bee talks to fellow funny lady Anna Faris about podcasting, puzzles, pitching new shows, and being...too funny?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Senator Elizabeth Warren
Samantha Bee talks with Senator Elizabeth Warren about her new book Persist, how childcare is the granny-panties of policy proposals, and whether or not Bailey would be allowed to have a puppy playdate with Major Biden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Bonus- Listener Questions
In a special bonus episode of Full Release, Sam answers listener questions about news stories that have shocked her, singing the National Anthem, and always having cake around the office.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Stephen Colbert
It's a Daily Show reunion! For her season two premiere, Samantha Bee sits down with former colleague Stephen Colbert to discuss everything from covering Joe Biden to cancel culture to colonoscopies. Fun!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Coming Soon- Full Release Premium Episodes
Bonus episodes of Full Release are coming to Stitcher Premium! To sign up, you can go to stitcher.com/premium and use the promo code SAMBEE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Samantha Bee Finds Her Full Release...Again
Full Release with Samantha Bee is back for a second season of interviews, games, and laughs on May 4th!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Women's History Month
Samantha Bee celebrates Women's History Month with some fierce trivia competition. To be nice, we'll say it was a tie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Mailbag- Sam's Valentine Advice
Samantha Bee answers listener questions about love and reveals her earliest celebrity crush. Spoiler alert--it was biblical.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Mailbag- Final Trump Thoughts
Samantha Bee answers her final Trump-related listener questions and doles out some senior superlatives for the Trump Administration. Spoiler alert: no one wins most likely to succeed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Holiday Mailbag
Samantha Bee answers your holiday questions!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Mailbag
Samantha Bee answers pressing listener questions from what kind of vanilla to purchase to whether or not Joe Biden should work with Republicans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jon Favreau
Samantha Bee talks to President Obama's first Director of Speechwriting and co-host of Pod Save America, Jon Favreau. They make predicitons about the Biden-Harris administration, share advice for young White House staffers, and talk about who they're most excited to see leave the White House.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Cecile Richards
Samantha Bee talks to author, activist, and feminist leader Cecile Richards about her new organization Supermajority, a lifetime of activism, and when she'll finally pop her celebratory champagne.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: DAN RATHER AND SPECIAL GUESTS
In this special Election Day episode of Full Release, Samantha Bee talks to news legend and true gentleman Dan Rather about the first time he voted, covering the 2000 election, and who to call for bail money. Plus, special guests pop by with words of encouragement for everyone voting today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Ilana Glazer
Samantha Bee talks to Broad City star Ilana Glazer about the need to do comedy, understanding the political system, and dancing with former AG Eric Holder. Apparently he's got some real dance moves...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Chris Hayes
Samantha Bee talks to MSNBC host Chris Hayes about President Trump's Covid diagnosis, the plan for election night, and why bad things happen when he and his wife have date-night.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jon Lovett
Samantha Bee talks to fellow podcaster Jon Lovett about Vote Save America, the newest PlayStation, and everyone's favorite Miami residents--the Golden Girls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jane Fonda
Samantha Bee talks to living legend Jane Fonda about her decades of activism, her reflections on being a feminist, the 40th anniversary of Nine to Five, and THE red coat (it was on sale!).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Patton Oswalt
Samantha Bee talks to comedian Patton Oswalt about engaging with Trump supporters on Twitter, making breakfast, and his forever-career as a DJ. They agree that you should always listen to Dolly Parton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Megan Rapinoe
Samantha Bee talks to soccer superstar Megan Rapinoe about her fight for equal pay for female athletes, living in the WNBA bubble, and the dream of eating sushi in a post-pandemic world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Sec. Julián Castro
Samantha Bee talks to former HUD Secretary Julián Castro about his friendship with Elizabeth Warren, turning Texas blue, and the future of the Democratic Party--and get this--he is...hopeful?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Rep. Katie Porter
Samantha Bee talks to Representative Katie Porter about sending kids to school in a pandemic, why all the old dudes in Congress don't understand childcare, and why her kids will NEVER paint their nails on her bedspread.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Kara Swisher
Samantha Bee talks to Kara Swisher about who from the tech world Kara would prefer to quarantine with, how life is like Star Wars, and even why Sam should start Tik Tok-ing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jemele Hill
Samantha Bee talks to sports journalist and fellow podcast host Jemele Hill about how they've both been called out by Donald Trump, what to do when you can't stop waking up at 4:30 in the morning, and if The Rock should run for president (spoiler alert: she thinks he should). Two women talking about sports? Bring on the trolls!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Connie Schultz
Samantha Bee talks to journalist Connie Schultz about teaching a new generation of journalists, why she used to be called "Connie Tyler Moore," and who cheats more at Scrabble--her or her Senator husband.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Dr. Jen Gunter
Samantha Bee talks to the unofficial resident OB/GYN of Twitter, Dr. Jen Gunter, about lotus births, raw placenta meat, acid wash jeans, and big hair. You're gonna learn a lot on this one.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Jelani Cobb
Samantha Bee talks to journalist Jelani Cobb about taking over Selena Gomez's Instagram, the power of police unions, and what he'd spend his time talking about if racism was finally over. A girl can dream!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Soledad O’Brien
Samantha Bee talks to cable news legend and Twitter ‘boss lady’ Soledad O’Brien about her love/hate relationship with the journalism industry and gets some advice on how to create the perfect "podcasting voice" and how to choose the best murder venue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Release: Samantha Bee finds her full release
You didn't ask for it, but you got it -- it's a Samantha Bee podcast!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.