Charli XCX • From Boom Clap to Brat

Legendary makeup artist, author, and entrepreneur Bobbi Brown joins host Charlotte Alter for our final episode of the season. They delve into Brown's journey from her Chicago upbringing to the pinnacle of the global beauty industry. Brown candidly shares the story behind her rise to success, from the profound influence of her mother on her perception of beauty to how she developed her iconic natural makeup style, to how she built not one but two, massively successful cosmetics companies. Brown sheds light on the changing face of beauty in the age of social media and cosmetic procedures, and lets us in on her 89-year-old father's beauty routine. Tune in for an intimate discussion on life, legacy, and the true essence of beauty with one of the industry's most revered figures, Bobbi Brown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For over a decade, Charli XCX has been a trailblazer in the pop and electronic music scenes, captivating audiences with hits like “I Love It” and “Boom Clap,” and acclaimed albums such as "How I'm Feeling Now" and "Crash." Her music has underscored iconic TV shows and films, from “GIRLS” in the 2010s to the recent hits “Bottoms” and “Barbie.” This week, Charli XCX sits down with host Charlotte Alter and shares insights into her creative process, her complex relationship with 90s pop, and how TikTok has revolutionized the music industry. With her new album, "Brat," dropping on June 7, Charli opens up about her journey and the inspiration behind her latest work. Tune in for a lively conversation that dives deep into the mind of one of pop’s most dynamic artists, and discover why, through it all, Charli XCX just wants her music to help people have fun.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Howard is one of the most prolific and celebrated filmmakers of the last fifty years. This week, Howard and host Charlotte Alter dive deep into his decades-long career in front of and behind the camera. Howard shares the inspiration behind his latest documentary film, “Jim Henson: Idea Man,” and what drove his decision to chronicle the life and work of a fellow Hollywood legend. The pair explore how Howard’s films reflect the eras in which they were made, the complex stories and characters that captivate us all, and why many of Howard’s films lack a traditional villain. Howard shares his insights on maintaining optimism in storytelling, balancing a prolific career with parenthood, and the invaluable advice he's received from industry legends. He also discusses how his documentary work enhances his narrative films, the inspiration behind his upcoming film "Eden," and the joy of experiencing his films through the eyes of his grandchildren. Tune in for an intimate look into one of Hollywood’s most enduring and beloved minds.  • "Jim Henson: Idea Man" is available on Disney+ on May 31.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ana Zamora is the Founder and CEO of The Just Trust – a nonprofit organization that supports criminal justice reform and public safety innovation in the United States. This week, we’re sharing a conversation that Ana had with host Charlotte Alter in March, in which she shares her personal journey into criminal justice reform, spurred by her brother’s experience with the system. The pair delve into the complexities and necessities of bipartisan collaboration in criminal justice reform, discussing how Democrats and Republicans can work together to create meaningful change. They explore the critical role of philanthropic investment in effecting positive change and the innovative strategies in use at The Just Trust and its partner organizations, and the importance of police and community cooperation in solving difficult issues. With insights from her background at the ACLU and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Ana provides a compelling vision for a more just and equitable future and the investment strategy she believes it will take to get there.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sherrie Westin is the dynamic force driving Sesame Workshop’s global educational initiatives. This week, Westin shares her inspiring journey to becoming President and Interim CEO of Sesame Workshop with host Charlotte Alter. The pair trace Westin’s path from her early days organizing activities for neighborhood friends, through a successful career in media and public service, to a profound pivot into children's television driven by the transformative experience of motherhood. They explore the global impact of "Sesame Street," delving into the meticulous research and cultural adaptations that bring joy and learning to kids across the globe. Westin sheds light on Sesame Workshop’s efforts in empowering the next generation to navigate the world of tomorrow, and outlines Sesame Workshop’s ongoing efforts to provide essential resources in crises around the world. Tune in for an engaging discussion on how Sesame Workshop continues to uphold and evolve the original vision of "Sesame Street," making a lasting difference in the lives of children worldwide.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn has become a household name in the years following the events of January 6, 2021. This week, we’re sharing a conversation Dunn had with host Charlotte Alter back in February, wherein Dunn shares scenes from his childhood in Prince George’s County and speaks to how his lifelong interest in serving the public led him to a career in law enforcement. The pair delve into the realities of working in the Capitol before and after January 6th, and the profound lessons Dunn learned about government and democracy over the course of his career. Dunn opens up about his emotional testimony at the January 6th Committee hearing, the current state of American politics, and his vision for bridging the deep divides in this country. Tune in for a unique perspective on the challenges facing American democracy and the relentless pursuit of a more united nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona has unique insight into the current state and future of American schools. This week, we’re sharing a conversation Secretary Cardona had with host Charlotte Alter last month to help shed light on this changing landscape. Cardona shared cherished memories of being an elementary school principal and the challenges of post-pandemic education. The pair unpacked everything from student loan debt solutions under the Biden administration to the critical role of mental health support in schools around the country. In addressing some of the most pressing issues in education today, Secretary Cardona spoke to the multifaceted use of standardized testing, the integration of AI and new technologies in classrooms, and strategies to address chronic student absenteeism. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on shaping tomorrow’s educational landscape with the man at the head of the class.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maya Rudolph is a comedy legend, and a 2024 TIME100 honoree. The multitalented actor, acclaimed for her iconic tenure on Saturday Night Live and unforgettable performances in “Bridesmaids,” “Big Mouth,” and more, joins host Charlotte Alter this week to dive deep into her creative process and personal journey. Maya takes us behind the scenes of growing up in a musical family and highlights the parallels between careers in music and comedy. In discussing her hit Apple TV series “Loot,” Maya shares her thoughts on what it would be like to live the life of a billionaire, the perks of working alongside world-renowned chef David Chang, and what drew her to the series in the first place. Rudolph opens up about balancing motherhood with the demands of a live weekly show, how she mastered the art of her world-class impressions, and what made the cohort of female comedians she worked with on SNL so incredibly special. Tune in for a conversation filled with laughter, revelations, and a glimpse into the life of one of comedy’s finest. Read more:Maya Rudolph | TIME100 https://time.com/6964633/maya-rudolph-2024/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Acclaimed novelist and 2024 TIME100 honoree Lauren Groff is a singular voice in American fiction. This week, Groff joins host Charlotte Alter to delve deep into the essence of creativity and the intricacies of the natural world and the human body. Lauren shares her unique perspective on how time acts as the "secret currency" of art, reflecting on the challenges of balancing marriage, motherhood and writing. Known for her commitment to an analog writing practice, Lauren discusses the virtues of disconnecting from digital distractions in favor of play, and unpacks the parallels between athleticism and artistic expression. Articulating the urgencies of this moment in history, Groff provides insights into her approach to weaving real-world themes and pressing societal issues into her narratives. Join Charlotte and Lauren for a deep dive into the life and mind of a writer who crafts not just stories, but windows into our world. Read more:  Lauren Groff by Ann Patchett | TIME100• https://time.com/6964750/lauren-groff/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Distinguished, award-winning journalist Christiane Amanpour is known for her fearless reporting from some of the world's most volatile regions. CNN's chief international anchor of the network's flagship global affairs program, "Amanpour," Christiane joins host Charlotte Alter this week to reflect on her experiences as a war reporter over the past four decades and share what concerns her most about the current state of global affairs. In discussing the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and the ongoing war in Ukraine, Amanpour shares insight into how today’s global crises compare to past conflicts that she's reported on from the ground. She outlines the formidable challenges journalists face while reporting from conflict zones, and underlines the importance of allowing reporters to serve as the eyes and ears for the world – and the responsibility the international community has in supporting and sustaining that work. Tune in for an expert and nuanced look at complexities of modern journalism and the intricacies of the geopolitical order.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.