Podcrushed

Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne (The Theory of Everything, Fantastic Beasts) takes a break from gracing the stage (and the soundstage) to bring his characteristic charm and kindness to the pod. He recalls early memories from growing up as the artsy one in a family full of athletes, and talks about his early days as a young theater actor in London, in awe of the bright lights and buzzy energy.    Follow Podcrushed on socials:Tiktok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hot off the heels of his Emmy win, Lamorne Morris (New Girl, Fargo) stops by and makes all of Penn’s dreams come true. Lamorne is candid about volatile days at home, and why he chooses forgiveness; what it was like to be a tiny instigator; and the time he shat his pants in front of his crush. We get into hard days on New Girl, pick up lines in the real world, and playing the straight man in his Best-Actor-cinching role on Fargo.    Follow Podcrushed on socials:Tiktok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Platt (the actor and musician from Broadway plays like Dear Evan Hansen, films like Pitch Perfect, and new album Honeymind) takes a break from winning awards to drop by the pod. From the time he got fully pantsed in front of his crush, to his wholly uneventful coming-out moment with his parents, to his early successes as a young actor -- the lol's and lessons are plentiful.    Follow Podcrushed on socials:Tiktok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lucas Bravo (Emily in Paris, FREEDOM) joins us from the green room of The Kelly Clarkson Show to talk about his early years bouncing between France and Italy, the fortuitous run-in he had in the middle of a busy street that led to his breakout role in Emily in Paris, and how a retreat into the mountains to get away from Hollywood ended up bringing him right back.    Follow Podcrushed on socials:Tiktok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renowned medium Tyler Henry sits down to talk about death, the afterlife, and the mysterious lines of connection running between them. He shares about the time he shocked his teacher with an extremely specific premonition about her long-dead mother-in-law, the shocking circumstances of his mother's kidnapping, and his thoughts on the hosts' classic, super-chill-totally-normal question: "what is the purpose of life?"   Follow Podcrushed on socials:Tiktok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor, writer and director, James Morosini (It’s What’s Inside, The Sex Lives of College Girls) keeps it refreshingly honest this week— touching on the time he got catfished by his own father, and then wrote, starred in and directed a movie about it; the time he drove 6 hours for his first kiss only to learn he wasn’t on his crush’s hot list; and why becoming his town’s drug dealer to make friends backfired on him. We dive deep into his new movie, It’s What’s Inside, and his indie darling, I Love My Dad.   Follow Podcrushed on socials:Tiktok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chase Stokes (Outer Banks, Uglies) joins us for a candid conversation spanning childhood sports injuries to living in his car in Hollywood. He hilariously recalls bombing his Stranger Things audition, only to later stand before those same execs to land his breakout role as John B in Outer Banks. Chase also shares how he was able to work up the courage to nail the most epic first kiss story we’ve ever heard.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Demi Lovato (rockstar, popstar, and now Child Star director) sits down with Penn in New York City for an intimate and wide ranging conversation about her life -- from her time as a young actor on Barney, to her breakout role in Camp Rock as a teenager, to her stratospheric and storied music career in her adulthood.  Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ego Nwodim (Saturday Night Live, Mr. Throwback) finally visits the pod after 3 years of coordination. She shares her theories on why crushes are better than relationships, how her name made her impervious to rejection, and how she keeps it together when everyone around her is breaking. Ego may or may not regret opening up so much and blames it on Penn for taking the interview from his bed. You don’t want to miss this one!   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questions, meet answers! In our fourth themed AMA of the season, the hosts answer *your* questions about all things family. From Nava's countless hours of bonding with her dad while watching "Match Game", to Penn's theories on healthy boundaries, to the time in Sophie's childhood where her dad had to angrily tell her not to spit on people -- everything is on the table.  Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our third themed AMA of the season, the hosts tackle *your* questions about the coming-of-age journey. Highlights include Penn discussing how his passion for dance buoyed his spirits during his formative years in LA, Nava reflecting on how her sense of humor ebbed (and then grew) through the pivotal moments of her life, and Sophie opening up about her early encounters with racial othering as a child growing up in the expat community in the Philippines.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're rerunning our episode with the effervescent Victoria Pedretti. From S2: "Our most requested guest of the season, Victoria Pedretti (YOU, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) drops by the pod… for the second time this season! Hear her thoughts on the commonalities of fame and bullying, iconic moments on YOU, and why it’s okay to acknowledge when things aren’t okay."    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dylan Arnold (Oppenheimer, YOU) is in the guest seat this week, sharing about his latest project opposite Natalie Portman and Moses Ingram, “Lady in the Lake”. But first, he recalls the impact “Twilight” had on his self esteem as a middle school boy sans a cut jaw and six pack. He recalls his early passion for theater, and why working with Christopher Nolan was like attending 100 million dollar film school. And, of course, we get into YOU, what it was like working opposite Victoria Pedretti, and Dylan’s feelings on how the whole thing should end.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your favorite icy grl, rapper extraordinaire, Saweetie joins us in-person for an intimate conversation on childhood, yearning for parental closeness, friendships born out of tests, and the early glimmerings of massive talent. Saweetie shares how giving herself a one year timeline to live austerely led to her current success, and what her fans can expect from her soon.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our second themed-AMA of the season is all about LOVE. The hosts tackle your questions on how to get over heartbreak, recognize “the one”, reconcile religious differences, and keep things playful. They weave their non-expert (repeat: totally subjective, possibly unhelpful!) opinions with personal stories that will make you laugh, and (if you’re a Nava or a Sophie) possibly tear up.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Manganiello (True Blood, Deal or No Deal Island) is a renowned heartthrob— but did you know he’s also a certified, almost-skipped-two-grades, dungeons&dragons master, nerd? Joe regales us with stories of his almost unbelievable tween years juggling his academic gifts with his athletic prowess and a burgeoning passion for the arts. He opens up about why honoring a family legacy of survival is so important to him, and why becoming a dad could be his most exciting role yet.    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tyler James Williams (Abbott Elementary, Dear White People, Everybody Hates Chris) tells stories of jumping over tables to impress his middle school crush, recalls memories of how he quelled his own internalized feelings of rejection from his years playing a reject on television, and offers his philosophy on how film sets with both adult and child actors should run.    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're rerunning one of our favorite interviews from Season 1! Conan O'Brien (SNL, Late Night, Conan) comes by to discuss his "need" for friendship and what it was like being the tall, lanky redhead in middle school in Boston. He also tells the group about the beginnings of his career in comedy at Harvard, SNL and more. Stick around to hear about his family's obsession with Gossip Girl and his thoughts on how the show ended.     Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brittany Snow (Pitch Perfect, Hairspray) joins the gang and shares stories from her decades-long career in Hollywood. Brittany shares details about the extreme lengths she went to in order to succeed as a child actor, and how her own struggles with relationships and body image influenced her directorial debut, Parachute. She and Penn dish on the John Tucker Must Die sequel rumors, and share their favorite memories from set.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maya Hawke (Stranger Things, Inside Out 2) drops by the pod and shares why conventional schooling wasn’t for her, and how growing up immersed in art shaped her. She reflects on how it felt to be the new kid on Stranger Things, and talks about the inspiration behind her new album "Chaos Angel."   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this special conversation with Ariana Grande, Ariana spills the beans on why she keeps casting TV serial killers as her music video leads, the dance move Penn tried to sneak into the "The Boy Is Mine" video, and the inspiration for her Eternal Sunshine era. The gang share their reactions to the Wicked trailer, and Ariana opens up about all the magic she experienced bringing Glinda to life — in front of and behind the scenes.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation with the extraordinarily prolific Ariana Grande, the crew has a wide-ranging conversation on childhood, her Broadway origins, and getting to act alongside her best friends. Ariana shares thoughtful reflections on her time at Nickelodeon and why therapy should be mandatory for all child actors.   For more on music, Eternal Sunshine, BTS on The Boy is Mine MV, and Wicked, check out Part 2.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The gang is joined by Matthew Hussey, the renowned relationship coach and New York Times bestselling author of “Love Life”. Matthew goes into his personal journey of confidence and clarity in relationships, shares simple advice on how to find a long-term partner, and gives insight into how to avoid the avoiders (and tame the avoider within).    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time in the history of Podcrushed, Penn flies solo with our guest, Daisy Ridley (Star Wars Trilogy, Murder on the Orient Express). She gushes over her first big crushes on Pink and Julia Stiles, how pain shaped part of her adolescence, and the role that intuition played in landing her, a then-unknown actress, the most coveted role of the 2010s as Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. They also take a deep dive into her more recent foray into independent films, including her latest role as the first woman to ever swim the English Channel in Young Woman and the Sea.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today the gang chats with B.J. Novak, the actor, writer, and all-around comedic force from films like Inglorious Basterds and The Founder, and shows like The Mindy Project, The Newsroom, and The Office. He recounts summer camp crushes, his slow realization that he was funny, and the prank that made him a Boston legend.    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first of several themed AMAs this season, Penn, Sophie and Nava tackle timeless questions, like "would you forgive a friend who cheated with your partner while high?", "would you publicly out a cheating spouse?", and "should you let your friends know about all their annoying habits?" Nava recalls her most traumatic friend breakup, Sophie shares how she saved a friendship from drifting too far apart and Penn… is there. Tune in and get ready for some extra laughs this week.    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we are blown away by Karamo Brown (Queer Eye, Karamo Show), whose life consists of a series of plot twists almost too-incredible to believe. Karamo opens up about living authentically at school while hiding himself at home, how a one-time encounter with his best friend turned into the greatest plot twist of his adult life, why life after MTV's The Real World was almost unbearable, and how he managed to land his role on Queer Eye even though he missed every round of casting but the last.   Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The inimitable, outrageously talented Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men, Handmaid's Tale) is here and we're NOT OK! Elisabeth shares about her years training as a ballet dancer, the tough lessons she learned from early adolescent manipulation, why she wished she'd been cast on Gossip Girl, and why she refuses to ever go method. We get into all things Handmaid's Tale and her exciting new project, The Veil. Tune in to find out how Penn made Elisabeth blush...by comparing her to a baby?    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We couldn't be more excited to kick things off in Season 3 with the one and only Jake Johnson (New Girl, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse)! Jake reflects on the trauma of being called "little boy!" in front of his crush, how his mother's intuition saved him from going to juvie, and why you should always listen to your gut, even when you're wrong sometimes. He also reminisces about his time on New Girl and what excites him most about switching things up behind the camera.    Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTok Instagram XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcrushed is back for Season 3! We’re so excited that we had to show you a sneak peek of what’s to come. We hope you enjoy, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for our premiere on April 24!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In honor of our friend Ramy Youssef's recent SNL performance, and the overwhelming success of his Academy Award winning film Poor Things, we're rerunning our episode with him! Come join us as Penn falls in love with our guest, Ramy Youssef (award-winning actor, producer, and stand-up comic). Ramy shares what it was like to be a Muslim kid in New Jersey the day after 9/11, why he loves Jesus but won't eff with Santa, and why in middle school he literally would have rather shit his pants than miss out on a good time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're rerunning our Taylor Tomlinson episode in celebration of the release of her new Netflix special "Have It All"! You may know her from her other Netflix specials, "Quarter Life Crisis" and "Look at You", but this week's guest, the bright, witty, and ludicrously funny Taylor Tomlinson, feels duped! She thought she was coming on for a breezy conversation on first periods and childhood crushes, and instead found herself deep in a conversation on heartbreak, rejection, death, and mental illness. The hosts hold nothing back, too, this week as they reflect on sudden loss and middle school trauma. This is a special episode of Podcrushed you won't wanna miss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our Season 2 finale the one and only Ziwe stops by! Her legendary sharp wit and inimitable comedic voice are on display as she showers us with stories of adolescence and coming of age. She shares why being completely herself has been critical to her career, an update on her future foray into pop stardom, and why the keys to success are within our own reach. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our penn-ultimate episode of the season, we interview the trailblazing renowned psychotherapist and relationship expert, Esther Perel. We learn about her new course "Turning Conflict into Connection," and Esther shares her profound wisdom on love, conflict, and human connection. She leads us in answering personal questions from her new game "Where Should We Begin", while she shares personal stories of worst dates and delicate family dynamics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our final EXTRA CREDIT episode this season, we talk to Katie Florence, whose father and brother both died when she was young. We explore the process of navigating grief and using humor as a tool to heal and survive devastating losses. Follow Podcrushed on Socials: InstagramTikTokXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

YOU asked, we delivered! This week the one and only Charlotte Ritchie (YOU, Ghosts) brings Penn to tears with stories of her tween gymnastics days in his favorite embarrassing story of the season. She and Penn share some Season 4 BTS and share their predictions over Joe and Kate's fates in the final season of YOU.Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokInstagramXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a full circle moment, on this EXTRA CREDIT episode we connect with Quinn Hardy (@quinickle) — a content creator whose plea for Penn to "duet" him went viral last year. He talks all things bullying, social media infamy, and gets surprisingly philosophical.Follow Podcrushed on Socials: InstagramTikTokXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seth Meyers (Late Night with Seth Myers, Saturday Night Live) and Josh Meyers (Mad TV, That '70s Show) join us this week for a hilarious conversation on their Midwestern upbringing. They recall their first 'birds and the bees' chat with their dad, why Seth is incapable of lying, how Josh handles heartbreak, and why they're each other's biggest supporters. Sophie, Penn and Nava declare them the most wholesome guests they've ever had and try to find a way to become part of the Meyers' family.Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokInstagramXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there such a thing as twin telepathy? Find out on this week's extra credit YOUR STORY episode, featuring listeners and twins Nahja and Nahjeniq Buchanan. Nahja and Nahjeniq share about their twin hijinks in middle school, establishing their own identity separate from being a twin and tapping into their twin intuition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s extra credit YOUR STORY episode, Nayya Hassan opens up about her teenage experience with a forced arranged marriage to her own cousin. Nayya blows the team away with her strength, resilience and courage.Follow Podcrushed on Socials: InstagramTikTokXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The stand-up comic taking the world by storm, Matt Rife, drops by this week and shares about his first love, his most epic on-stage bomb at 15, how comedian Ralphie May changed his life, and for the first time, shares the full story of how he and his girlfriend met and fell in love. We have a feeling you’re gonna love this one. Stick around! Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokInstagramXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us this week for our second extra credit YOUR STORY episode, where we devote an entire episode to a conversation with a listener. Today we we talk to our youngest guest ever— 16 year old Sophie Fergi shares about how severe bullying in middle school led to a home-schooling journey that has culminated in a very prominent online presence on social media. She shares what she’s learned about navigating hate, both from peers in real life, and trolls on the internet. Follow Podcrushed on Socials: InstagramTikTokX  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Come join us as Penn falls in love with our guest, Ramy Youssef (award-winning actor, producer, and stand-up comic). Ramy shares what it was like to be a Muslim kid in New Jersey the day after 9/11, why he loves Jesus but won't eff with Santa, and why in middle school he literally would have rather shit his pants than miss out on a good time. **This episode was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.** Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokInstagramXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us this week for the launch of our first ever extra credit YOUR STORY episode, where we devote an entire episode to a conversation with a listener. Today we talk to Simran Jeet Singh, a professor, activist, and author, about his first memorable encounter with religious discrimination on a soccer field, and in a boys' locker room, in Texas. Follow Podcrushed on Socials: InstagramTikTokXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we are joined by the sensational Jada Pinkett Smith. Jada shares about her tumultuous adolescence in Baltimore, how her time in a metal band helped her learn how to shield her heart from bitterness, what she’s learned about healing and forgiveness in family relationships, and why love is only possible when we sacrifice our ego. Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokInstagramXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World-renowned expert on the science of happiness, Dr. Laurie Santos (host of The Happiness Lab; professor of Yale University’s most popular class in history!) takes the time to answer YOUR most submitted questions on happiness this week. From sharing about the most misunderstood ideas on happiness (hello money!) and the most overlooked aspects of happiness, to whether single people can actually be as happy as married couples, to the fastest way to lift yourself up out of sadness (the answer might surprise you), this episode of Podcrushed will leave you armed with new insights to improve your happiness, in the short and long term. Follow Podcrushed on socials:XTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we have not one, but two guests -- Bob Odenkirk, the award-winning actor, writer, and comedic trailblazer whose career has spanned decades, and his daughter Erin Odenkirk, an accomplished multimedia artist and illustrator. Together they co-authored a book of children’s poems and illustrations called ‘Zilot & Other Important Rhymes”, which manages to entertain while also encouraging children to write their own poems. Bob tells us why he still sometimes feels like a fourteen-year-old, Erin tells stories of growing up in the uber-creative Odenkirk household, and the hosts finally discover what exactly a "zilot" is.  Follow Podcrushed on socials:XInstagramTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Geri Halliwell-Horner — the singer you may know best as *the* Ginger Spice from the Spice Girls — joins us to talk about her first experiences navigating fame as a Spice Girl, her lifelong journey with spirituality, and her NYT best-selling fantasy novel for young readers “Rosie Frost and the Falcon Queen."  Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokXInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**This episode of Podcrushed was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.** Today we're joined by James Scully, the actor you may know from shows like Titans and Heathers, or from characters like Forty Quinn from Penn's show You. Coincidentally, James just so happened to be taught by Nava when he was in ninth grade. Yes, that's right -- Nava was James Scully's teacher when he was in high school. James shares his favorite memories from Nava's class, gets candid about growing up as a theater kid in Texas, and recalls his favorite moments working alongside Penn on set.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we get to experience Kevin Bacon in the first degree! Kevin tells us all about his new podcast, Six Degrees with Kevin Bacon, how his mother influenced his passion for philanthropy, and how he came out of the womb seeking attention. Kevin shares why fame doesn't bother him (too much), how he draws inspiration for his spirited Tik Tok account, and most significantly, finally agrees to share a piece of marriage advice.  Instagram TikTok XSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Who is the most charming man alive?” and come up with Matthew McConaughey, you are correct. This week, the hosts bask in the light of Matthew’s infectious spirit as he regales them with stories from his adolescence in Texas, important lessons on love and patience, why a little bullshitting is vital, and shares the inspiration behind his new children’s book, Just Because. Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokInstagramXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our guest this week is the one and only Bobby Berk (Queer Eye, Nailed It!). Bobby shares about his road to self discovery, from coming out to his family and church community as a teen, to finding his passion for art and design. He shares about how he manifested the Fab 5 with a group chat before final casting of Queer Eye, the time he almost punched a fan by accident, the principles of design that his new book Right at Home, explores, and why making your bed every morning can make or break the rest of your day. Follow Podcrushed on socials: TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**This episode of Podcrushed was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.** Our guest this week is none other than Taylor Momsen (The Pretty Reckless, Gossip Girl). She and Penn reunite for the first time since filming the season finale of Gossip Girl in 2012. Taylor shares what it was like being the youngest actor on set, her impressions of working with Penn, and why it was important for her to give her all to pursuing a career in music. Taylor lets us in on her creative muses, how she's drawn inspiration from the darkest moments of her life, and how she's learned to pick herself up after facing heartbreaking losses.  Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokTwitterInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we bring you an episode from "I Weigh", the podcast against shame hosted by Jameela Jamil, where she sits down with Penn for a wide-spanning conversation. From Jameela's feed: "Actor, podcaster, and most thoughtful man Penn Badgley joins Jameela and the two ponder life, love and fame. They discuss his experience becoming an adult in the limelight, what it feels like to be heavily sexualized, why they both don't enjoy sex scenes, how his fame affects his children, his personal journey with finding peace and happiness, and together they ask the toughest question - what is love?" Follow Podcrushed on socials:  TikTokTwitterInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The hosts are back with their S2 AMA (or should we say AUA -- Ask Us Anything) episode. They reflect on who their favorite guests have been, their most vulnerable moments on the show, things they’ve learned about each other in the process of making Podcrushed, and everyone shares a critical lesson they’ve learned about love. Follow Podcrushed on socials:TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**This episode of Podcrushed was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.** Today we're joined by actor, podcaster, and certified Hollywood icon Rob Lowe, who spares no details about the highs and lows of his truly remarkable life. Nothing is off the table -- from stories of his teenagehood in the limelight, to his journey with sobriety and spirituality, to his discoveries about parenthood, Rob's signature blend of honesty and optimism is in full force throughout.  Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokTwitterInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may know her from her viral Netflix specials, "Quarter Life Crisis" and "Look at You", but this week's guest, the bright, witty, and ludicrously funny Taylor Tomlinson, feels duped! She thought she was coming on for a breezy conversation on first periods and childhood crushes, and instead found herself deep in a conversation on heartbreak, rejection, death, and mental health. The hosts hold nothing back, too, this week as they reflect on sudden loss and middle school trauma. This is a special episode of Podcrushed you won't wanna miss. Follow Podcrushed on socials:TwitterInstagramTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ALOK (author, poet, comedian) wows the Podcrushed gang with their deep insights into human nature, connection, friendship, and identity. They share stories of self-discovery  and acceptance, healing and growing with compassion — all with their trademark blend of wry humor and deep wisdom. Follow Podcrushed on socials:InstagramTikTokTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**This episode of Podcrushed was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.** Nina Dobrev (Vampire Diaries) stops by the pod to share recollections from her early adolescence, including her time as a substitute on the national Canadian gymnastics team, navigating Canadian culture under a strict Bulgarian upbringing, and recognizing how recreating family-seeking patterns in romantic relationships was preventing her from finding real love. Follow Podcrushed on socials! InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the brilliant Jenny Han—creator of To All the Boys I've Ever Loved, XO Kitty and The Summer I Turned Pretty—shares the real story behind the letters she wrote to all the boys she'd ever loved. She also talks about the importance of protecting her young actors, investing in new talent, and how she convinced Taylor Swift to let her use a track off the unreleased 1989 (Taylor’s Version!) Follow Podcrushed on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kelly Clarkson, the award-winning singer, songwriter, and television personality, brings her buoyant spirit to the pod for a wide-ranging chat about everything from winning the very first season of American Idol, to living out of her car after her apartment burned down, to the moment she had as a middle schooler when she realized she could sing. (Like, SING sing). Follow Podcrushed on socials:  TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're running back one of our favorite episodes! America's favorite friend Lisa Kudrow speaks candidly about her adolescence, family tragedy, her days in a comedy troupe with Conan O'Brien, and what it was really like to revisit "Friends" after all these years.  Folllow Podcrushed on socials:TwitterInstagramTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multi-hyphenate talent — actor! writer! comedian! book imprint owner!—Phoebe Robinson (Two Dope Queens, Sooo Many White Guys) struggles to keep her cool in front of Penn, while opening up about why she *wasn't* the class clown when she was younger, the most insulting thing a guy's ever told her during a romantic moment, and what she's learned from her astrologist who's also her life coach. Follow Podcrushed on  socials: InstagramTikTokTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The gang sits down with Dr. Sasha Hamdani, who weaves together her personal experience growing up with ADHD and her professional experience as a psychiatrist to upend some fundamental stigmas about ADHD. And it’s not all business — Sasha tells stories of starting a riot in her classroom in fourth grade and biting her water polo teammate mid-game. Follow Podcrushed on socials: TwitterTiktokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Seinfeld, Veep) proves why she’s such a national treasure. Authentic, charismatic, and thoughtful — Julia shares about standing up to a major studio when they wanted to sue her as a young actress, how fighting breast cancer was a lot like surviving a shark in open waters, and why she stays open to life’s great mysteries.  Follow Podcrushed on socials! TwitterInstagramTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Goodbye YOU: A Farewell to Sera Gamble" In this very special episode of Podcrushed, we invite YOU showrunner, Sera Gamble (The Magicians, Supernatural) to reflect on 4 seasons of YOU—from her earliest pitch meetings, to landing on Penn as Joe, to saying goodbye four seasons later. We get to hear her side of the now infamous boundary-setting conversation, and Sera shares why she's the real Joe Goldberg. Follow Podcrushed on socials:TikTokTwitterInstagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lilly Singh -- YouTube icon, author, actor, and the first female late-night host in over 30 years -- drops by the pod and impresses the hosts with her wit, warmth, and depth. From her middle school obsession with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, to the obstacles she faced in late night, to why she'll still be anxiously seeking her mother's approval on her death bed -- Lilly does not hold back! Follow Podcrushed on socials!  TikTokTwitterInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our conversation with Roy Wood Jr, front runner to take over the Daily Show and host of this year’s White House Correspondent’s Dinner, runs the gamut —from why he started a fight at a Stop the Violence rally when he was a middle schooler to why he isn’t afraid to get political in his standup.  Follow Podcrushed on socials: TikTokTwitterFacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's guest is Iliza Shlesinger, the inimitable stand-up comedian, best-selling author, and podcaster. She opens up about growing up Jewish in conservative Texas, confronting her crush while in her high school mascot regalia ("a gigantic foam hornet head"), and doing stand-up comedy in parking lots.  Follow Podcrushed on socials:  InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The brilliant Jameela Jamil (She Hulk, The Good Place) stuns the group with her unparalleled ability to flip between painful recollections, deep wisdom, and delightfully wicked humor all in the same thought. Jameela shares about the inspiration behind I Weigh, why she backed out of a chance to star in S4 of YOU, and why failure is her good place (we had to!). You also won’t want to miss the moment Jameela cries out “what the f&$k Penn,” while Sophie and Nava lose their minds with glee. Follow Podcrushed on socials: TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“She’s blonde!” The delightful Tilly Keeper (YOU, East Enders) shares about her humiliating first school play, why Britney Spears was her religion, and finally shares the long-awaited answer to what life-altering wisdom Joe whispered in Lady Phoebe’s ear. You don’t wanna miss it! Follow Podcrushed on socials:InstagramTikTokTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You've probably seen him all over your For You page on TikTok, or your Discover page on Instagram, but this week Chris Olsen opens up like never before, sharing how the hardest moments led to his most important transformations.  He opens up about rehab and his journey to sobriety, the pressure to assimilate, and how a 23andMe DNA test exposed a hidden family history.Follow Podcrushed on socials! TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Adam Brody (Fleishman is in Trouble, Shazam!, The O.C.) stops by and wins the group over with his endless trove of middle school stories. Adam gets passionate explaining his take on marriage, and shares why he’s the happiest he’s ever been. Follow Podcrushed on socials! TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on the pod we have Sophia Bush (One Tree Hill, Good Sam, John Tucker Must Die), who sits down to discuss her activism journey, love as a daily practice, and navigating life in the public eye. Follow Podcrushed on socials:InstagramTikTokTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're joined in-person by the brilliant actor and Penn's co-star Ed Speleers (You, Downton Abbey, Star Trek: Picard), who shares why his first play shocked and stunned his entire school, the reason that his first movie role, Eragon, was almost his last, and why his character Rhys from You is his favorite villain. (RHYYYYYS!)   Follow Podcrushed on socials!  TikTok Twitter InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We kick things off in Season 2 with the phenomenal, Emmy-award-winning actor Jharrel Jerome (When They See Us, I'm a Virgo). He shares about why he almost missed his audition for a little Oscar-winning project called Moonlight, why breaking someone else's heart meant breaking his own, and why projects that speak to the culture are so important to him. Follow us on socials! TwitterTikTokInstagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/b3Z2gtnE5Rk The gang is back with another bonus episode breaking down YOU S4, Part 2. Penn shares why episode 8 is his favorite of all time, where season 5 might find Joe, and what it was like to (SPOILER ALERT!) direct all his previous leads. As always, this episode is full of spoilers. Tread with caution. Follow us on socials! TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s episode is a rerun of our pilot! Penn invites his old pal Leighton Meester to help kick things off. They reminisce about the first project they ever worked on together (spoiler - it's not Gossip Girl). The gang chats about fake heart attacks, unfair beauty standards, and whether it's time for Leighton to play Timothee Chalamet's mom. Follow Podcrushed on socials:TwitterTikTokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're rerunning our episode with Tati Gabrielle! In this episode, Sophie and Nava swoon over Penn's You S3 cast mate Tati Gabrielle, while Penn tries (unsuccessfully) to keep them grounded. Tati opens up about her life, the girls have fun roasting Penn, and the gang bonds over their shared love of the esoteric. Follow us on socials:InstagramTikTokTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Watch this episode on YouTube!In this special, bonus episode of Podcrushed, Sophie and Nava grill Penn all about the first five episodes of You, Season 4. They get into the new characters, the most surprising plot points, and some BTS on the show’s approach to intimacy this season. This conversation is *full* of spoilers so listen at your own peril… Follow us on socials:InstagramTikTokTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a rerun of our episode with Jenna Ortega! She gets refreshingly candid about representation, body image, and therapy, and spills the deets on what it was like working with Tim Burton on the iconic Netflix series "Wednesday." Follow us on socials:InstagramTikTokTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we bring you an episode of Why Won't You Date Me? with Nicole Byer. From Nicole’s feed: “Oh my god, he's here. Penn Badgley (You, Gossip Girl, host of Podcrushed) joins Nicole to discuss why people are infatuated by his serial killing character, why love is not depicted accurately in media, bringing down your walls to connect with people, and the existential insecurities he had when dating.” Follow Podcrushed on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elizabeth Lail is our very special guest for the Season 1 finale of Podcrushed. She shares about early social stigmas that shaped her current world views, prevalent and problematic romantic tropes, and what she thinks should happen to Joe at the conclusion of YOU. Follow us on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singer, songwriter (and current queen of TikTok) Meghan Trainor joins us this week to talk about being frenemies with her brothers in middle school, why she’s homeschooling her kids, and how social media stardom has transformed her career. As a special bonus, Ryan Trainor stops by to share about his and Meghan’s podcast, Workin' On It, and how he’s working to overcome addictions stemming from childhood trauma.  Follow us on socials!TiktokTwitterInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renowned physician and author Dr. Gabor Mate visits the show this week to share gems about the myth of normal, forming vital intergenerational bonds, and the importance of compassion in healing trauma. Follow us on socials!TwitterInstagramTiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Brian Baumgartner (The Office) stops by and offers some theories on why The Office is the most streamed comedy in history, and also opens up about a traumatic medical procedure in middle school that altered the course of his life.  Follow Podcrushed on socials! InstagramTwitterTiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conan O’Brien steals the show this week, helping Penn regain control from the normies (Sophie & Nava). He also reminisces about his disastrous first school play and reveals his Gossip Girl standom. Follow Podcrushed on socials! TiktokTwitterInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you are enjoying Podcrushed, there’s another series that we just know you’re going to love. After first going viral on TikTok by telling the story of how she got stuck buying 100 tacos on a first date, Elyse Myers now has millions of eyeballs watching her videos daily. Each week on Funny Cuz It’s True, Elyse sits down with her favorite creators, friends and comedians to find the stories that have stuck with them and changed their lives in small ways. She wants to know how they handled these situations and learned to laugh about them years later.   In this episode, legendary director, writer, and actor Paul Feig joins Elyse to talk about Elyse’s first kiss, and Paul's own awkward romances (like the ones that inspired his show "Freaks and Geeks”). Plus, Paul shares his experiences from “The Office.”   To hear more Funny Cuz it’s True, head to https://link.chtbl.com/funnycuzitstruewithelysemyers Follow Podcrushed on socials! TwitterTiktokInstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our most requested guest of the season, Victoria Pedretti (YOU, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) drops by the pod… for the second time this season! Hear her thoughts on the commonalities of fame and bullying, iconic moments on YOU, and why it’s okay to acknowledge when things aren’t okay.Follow Podcrushed on socials: InstagramTwitterTiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To watch the video version of this episode, head over to the YouTube Podcrushed channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUvv82qZ85Q In this special episode of Podcrushed, Penn answers all of your questions about his Netflix show, YOU — including his favorite moments with each season’s co-lead, and the cringiest scene he’s ever had to film. Fans of YOU, this one’s for… well, you get it. Follow Podcrushed on socials! InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chart topping singer-songwriter Andy Grammer brings his signature buoyancy and relentless optimism to a frank and reflective conversation around death, songwriting, and always being true to yourself. Follow Podcrushed on socials! InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've got two guests! Today's episode is with Sasheer Zamata and Nicole Byer, two brilliant comedic minds (and fellow podcasters) who just so happen to be best friends. The gang talks poker faces, ghost stories, and worst on-stage bombs. Follow us on socials! TiktokInstagramTwitterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin Baldoni -- actor, director, and New York Times bestselling author -- stops by the pod to share stories from his youth, and lessons from his quest to understand the meanings and misconceptions around what it is to “be a man”.  Follow us on socials! InstagramTwitterTiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week our guest is the incomparable Domino Kirke-Badgley (musician, doula, and happens to be married to our host, Penn). She shares the story of how she and Penn met, and offers a deep dive into how traumatic events from her adolescence continue to shape her now. Follow us on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Ronson -- the seven-time Grammy Award winner you may know from songs like "Uptown Funk" and "Shallow" -- swings by the show this week and shares stories of interning at Rolling Stone as a 12 year old, being in the room when some of the greatest songs of all time were being crafted, and even shares a few lessons he’s learned about love.  Follow us on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Internet's best friend, Elyse Myers, stops by the show and shares the real story behind the taco date that made her a Tik Tok sensation, how she knew her husband was different from all the other men she'd dated, and how she navigates the highs and lows of social media celebrity.  Follow us on socials: InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The youngest artist ever inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, Kelsea Ballerini, shares about her brand new album, her time as a judge on The Voice and what it was like to be supported by Taylor Swift, and that one time she stole* a mailbox.  Follow us on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're back from hiatus! Sebastian Stan (Pam & Tommy, Fresh, I Tonya, the Marvel franchise, etc.) joins us to talk about moving to America in eighth grade, losing himself in his roles, and memories of Penn from their time together on the set of Gossip Girl.  Follow us on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saniyya Sidney (King Richard, Hidden Figures, Fences) takes a break from beating Will Smith in tennis and hanging out with Beyoncé to give the lowdown on what it’s like being a fifteen-year-old in 2022. She tells stories of her remarkable career and reminds us that being positive is a choice.Follow us on socials!InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Relationship scientist, critically-acclaimed author, and Penn's couples therapist, Dr. Stan Tatkin, joins the pod to talk all things love and relationships.  He gives tips on how to help a relationship thrive… even when you want to *kill* the other person. Follow us on socials!InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For today's special episode, we are pulling back the curtain and interviewing each other! Penn reminisces on being an awkward teenager, Sophie remembers her globe-trotting childhood, and Nava recalls being TOTALLY COOL when she met Penn in her own apartment.  Follow us on socials! InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

America's favorite friend Lisa Kudrow speaks candidly about her adolescence, family tragedy, her days in a comedy troupe with Conan O'Brien and what it was really like to revisit "Friends" after all these years.   Follow us on socials! InstagramTwitterTiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The extraordinary journalist Mona Chalabi wins everyone over with her deep intellect and even deeper compassion. Mona is a catalyst for the group's most open and vulnerable conversation yet, touching on mental health, long-term illness, and the death of beloved family members. Want to submit your middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail. Follow us on socialsInstagramTwitterTiktokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shay Mitchell (Pretty Little Liars, YOU, Dollface) reunites with Penn for a delightful conversation on vision boards, manifesting, mama bear-ing, and embracing failure on the path to success. She opens up about pre-partum depression and why in high school she frequently ate lunch alone in the bathroom. Want to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail. Follow Podcrushed on socials:InstagramTwitterTikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chace Crawford stops by and opens up about frosted tips, heartbreak, and being "okay" at football (this is disputed; we've heard he's quite good). He and Penn reminisce on their Gossip Girl days, while Sophie and Nava try to act casual. Want to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail.  Follow us on socials! InstagramTikTokTwitter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Penn squirms while Evan Rachel Wood reads entries from her tween diary — revealing their mutual crush on each other. Evan delights the gang by recalling the lyrics to Penn’s first love song. Want to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail. Follow us on socials!instagram.com/podcrushedtwitter.com/podcrushedtiktok.com/@podcrushedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Writer, comedian, actress, and The Bear star Ayo Edebiri charms the crew with stories of first periods and missed Leonardo DiCaprio encounters. Want to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail. Follow us on socials! instagram.com/podcrushedtwitter.com/podcrushedtiktok.com/@podcrushed See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Schumer reads an entry from her middle school diary, dishes on her first breakup, and gets real about love and postpartum vulnerability.  Want to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail.  Follow us on socials! instagram.com/podcrushedtwitter,com/podcrushedtiktok.com/@podcrushed See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jenna Ortega gets refreshingly candid about representation, body image, and therapy, and spills the deets on what it was like working with Tim Burton in the upcoming series "Wednesday." Want to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail. Follow us on socials! instagram.com/podcrushedtwitter.com/podcrushedtiktok.com/@podcrushedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rainn Wilson regales the group with stories of heartbreak, courage, and finding your footing when you *really* don't fit in. The cherry on top: he sings! Want to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us every detail.  Follow us on socials: instagram.com/podcrushedtwitter.com/podcrushedtiktok.com/@podcrushed  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophie and Nava swoon over Penn's YOU Season 3 castmate, Tati Gabrielle, while Penn tries (unsuccessfully) to keep them grounded. Tati opens up about her life, the girls have fun roasting Penn, and the gang bonds over their shared love of the esoteric. Come to our launch party! We're hosting a middle-school-dance-themed kickoff for the podcast on Thursday, June 2nd in Brooklyn, NY. Tickets here: linktr.ee/podcrushed Follow us on socials:instagram.com/podcrushedtwitter.com/podcrushedtiktok.com/@podcrushedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drew Barrymore joins the crew to share hilarious and heartfelt stories about her turbulent adolescent years in the spotlight. They marvel at the power a little discomfort has in bringing you closer to your full self. Come to our launch party! We're hosting a middle-school-dance-themed kickoff for the podcast on Thursday, June 2nd in Brooklyn, NY. Tickets here: linktr.ee/podcrushed Follow us on socials:instagram.com/podcrushedtwitter.com/podcrushedtiktok.com/@podcrushed See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Penn invites his old pal Leighton Meester to help kick things off. They reminisce about the first project they ever worked on together (spoiler - it's not Gossip Girl). The gang chats about fake heart attacks, unfair beauty standards, and whether it's time for Leighton to play Timothee Chalamet's mom.Follow Podcrushed on socials: @podcrushedWant to submit a middle school story? Go to www.podcrushed.com and give us *every* detail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcrushed — the podcast where Penn Badgley reads your middle school story —  explores the heartbreak, anxiety and self-discovery of being a teenager. Hosts Penn Badgley, Nava Kavelin, and Sophie Ansari bring you stories and conversations about middle school —   from childhood crushes, to battles with body hair, to schoolyard scuffles. The results are sometimes awkward, sometimes heartwarming, and always relatable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.