Work in Progress with Sophia Bush

Abby Phillip is one of the most trusted voices in American media — the anchor of CNN NewsNight and a sharp, steady guide through democracy’s most turbulent moments. She argues that journalism today isn’t about pretending to be “impartial” but rather meeting every story with curiosity, honesty, and depth. Abby's also unafraid to put the powerful on blast, and she reveals a major issue that politicians are missing when it comes to voters. Plus, find out how her new book A Dream Deferred is reframing Jesse Jackson’s legacy and raising urgent questions about America right now.Check out her book at bookshop.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul leads like a mom who’s had enough — protective, outspoken, and unwilling to watch her people get pushed aside. She opens up about the loving anger that drives her, the urgency of defending families, and what it takes to lead with both empathy and backbone. She also has a message for critics of newly-elected NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, because she believes New York is at its best when we all work together.It's a candid, clear-eyed look at how she’s fighting for New Yorkers when it matters most.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amanda Kloots has lived many lives — Broadway dancer, Rockette, author, TV host, wife and now, single mom — and she’s still redefining what resilience looks like. Amanda opens up about juggling loss and enduring grief with newfound joy and reinvention, She also shares hard-won insights on healing, creativity, and the quiet courage it takes to begin again.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heyyy, Work in Progress listeners! We’re thrilled to share a special episode takeover from Tell Me Something Messy—the raw, hilarious, and heartfelt podcast hosted by actor, writer, and activist Brandon Kyle Goodman. In this intimate conversation, Brandon sits down with Sophia Bush to explore what happens when your personal evolution doesn’t fit the timeline others expect—diving into career pivots, heartbreak, community, faith, and the practice of coming home to yourself, baby! Brandon also opens up about how their staged production, Heaux Church, produced by Lena Waithe, has helped reframe some of their views on community, identity, and self-compassion. ✨ Tell Me Something Messy is the podcast where vulnerability meets humor, hosted by Brandon Kyle Goodman (Big Mouth, Human Resources). Each week, Brandon and guests unpack the beautiful contradictions of being human—sex, spirituality, friendship, forgiveness, and all the glorious mess in between. Listen and watch full episodes on YouTube @BrandonKGood and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow and join the messy community on Substack.Instagram: @TellMeSomethingMessyTikTok: @TellMeSomethingMessySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malala Yousafzai was just 15 when the Taliban tried to silence her for demanding girls’ right to education — and instead made her one of the most powerful voices of her generation. Now 28, the Nobel Peace Prize winner reflects on the life behind the legend — the recovery, love story, and private doubts few have ever heard her share. Find out why Malala says real courage isn’t about surviving what happened to her but choosing how to live after it.Malala's new memoir "Finding My Way" is available now at bookstore.org.Learn more about the Malala fund here and Recess here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert Reich has spent a lifetime standing up to bullies—from the playground to the halls of power. Now, the former Labor Secretary and bestselling author reveals what we must do to take a stand against social injustice while democracy itself is under attack.Find out why the most impactful leaders might be the ones who never hold public office and why he still believes the antidote to darkness isn’t optimism—but action.Follow Robert on Substack: https://robertreich.substack.com/Learn how you can host or attend a screening of Professor Reich's documentary at https://www.thelastclassfilm.com/Find his memoir "Coming Up Short" at bookshop.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett isn’t pulling punches — especially now, as she fights a Texas redistricting plan that could erase her district and reshape democracy itself. The former civil-rights attorney opens up about the toll of being targeted, the fuel behind her fearlessness, and why she refuses to “play nice” when people’s rights are on the line. Find out what it really takes to keep showing up when the system keeps moving the goalposts... and what just might make Jasmine leave politics for good.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brie Larson and Courtney McBroom are redefining what it means to throw a party — and to live one. From childhood hot-dog experiments to full-blown adult spelling bees, the Oscar-winner and the chef-author spill stories from their friendship and the book it inspired. Find out how hot queso bonded these friends for life, what qualifies someone as the perfect guest, and why, when it comes to the best parties, the mess might just be the magic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" fan favorite Mayci Neeley gets brutally honest about love, loss, and survival —stories she lays bare in her new memoir "Told Ya So." Her journey from heartbreak and abuse to resilience and rebuilding takes on new dimension as she reflects on life lessons only learned in hindsight.Brace for some fun shockers, too, as Mayci also spills the tea on "Mormon Wives" season 3 and reveals why she's not losing sleep over some of the show's wilder revelations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hulu’s acclaimed limited series "The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox" pushed Grace Van Patten to her limits—learning Italian in weeks, embodying Amanda’s story, and carrying insights from both Knox herself and producer Monica Lewinsky that changed her beyond the role. Grace opens up about the pivotal gap year that made her choose acting for good and the unexpected lessons she’s still trying to apply off-screen. Plus, with "Tell Me Lies" season 3 filming now, Grace hints at what makes this chapter of her career both thrilling and bittersweet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carson Daly has been a defining voice in pop culture for more than three decades, but despite his warmth, humor and openness in front of the camera, behind the scenes, he's struggled with potentially career-crushing anxiety.Carson opens up about his first panic attack which took place in his TRL dressing room and how he went from thinking he was “broken” to becoming a leading voice for mental health. Find out how he's turned his self-awareness into a superpower and uses his mental health toolkit to help others, even on live TV.Learn more about the Project Healthy Minds World Mental Health Day Festival at https://www.projecthealthyminds.com/.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beloved Pediatric Emergency Department doctor and social media sensation Dr. Meghan Beach is trusted by millions on social media for her razor-sharp insights and relatable, no-nonsense style. She’s also changing the way parents receive and understand vital insights about children’s health. Hear how Dr. Beach balances saving lives, raising four kids, and breaking down medical myths online. Plus, she reveals a few life-saving tricks every parent should know, including a surprising way parents could prevent severe allergic reactions.Find and follow Dr. Beach on instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/dr.beachgem10?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unfiltered, unapologetic, and utterly magnetic—Malin Åkerman is fresh off her bold, twist-filled turn in "The Hunting Wives" and opens up about embracing freedom on screen, the power of female friendship, and the honesty that fuels both her marriage and her career. Plus, find out the current state of the show's second season and how she and her husband feel about her new status as a queer icon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cristela Alonzo isn’t just one of the funniest voices in comedy—she’s a storyteller whose underdog journey fuels razor-sharp stand-up on identity, class and culture. Her latest Netflix special "Cristela Alonzo: Upper Classy" blends hilarity with humanity, but in the comedy clubs, she’s proving that laughter can spark real change. Hear firsthand about the family struggles that shaped her, the dystopian nightmare she found herself in on election night, and the unexpected way she raised $30K of life-changing support, one laugh at a time.All proceeds from Cristela's live "Room Temperature Shows" benefit The Immigrant Defenders Law Center. Learn more about their work at https://www.immdef.org/.Cristela's new Netflix special "Cristela Alonzo: Upper Classy" comes out September 23rd. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lilly Singh has never been afraid to break boundaries, and her latest project proves it. A trailblazing comedian, storyteller, and digital creator, Lilly reveals all the dirty details about her bold new comedy “Doin’ It” and how this film had moments that made her blush. Lilly’s also making amazing strides in her mission to uplift women and amplify underrepresented voices! Find out how and discover what she says is her number one priority in life. Learn more about Lilly’s projects and mission here: Unicorn Islandhttps://www.unicornisland.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Jonathan Capehart opens up about his extraordinary life and his latest book, “Yet Here I Am: Lessons from a Black Man’s Search for Home.” He takes us from the tension of straddling two very different worlds—urban New Jersey and rural North Carolina—to the complexities of race, queerness, and identity in America’s shifting landscape. Plus, Jonathan explains why he feels obligated to share his opinions, even when others in his industry are blasted for doing the same.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Don Lemon is an award-winning journalist, bestselling author, and one of the most influential voices in American media. Known for fearless storytelling and unflinching conversations about politics, culture, and identity, he’s now reinvented himself in bold new ways. In this conversation, Don opens up about resilience, his new YouTube series/podcast “The Don Lemon Show” and the power of queer joy. Plus, Don talks candidly about what led to his leaving CNN and gives his take on Trump’s intimidation efforts against mainstream media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophia's in-depth conversation with Amanda Knox continues with what happened after the guilty verdict - from Amanda's traumatic time spent in an Italian jail to the equally shocking revelation that her conviction was overturned and she'd be set free. Amanda takes us through the painful process of grieving all that was lost, finding purpose in what came next and seeking closure through the most unexpected source.Before you watch the rest of "The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox" on Hulu, listen to Amanda share her story in her own words.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amanda Knox went from a college student studying abroad to the center of one of the most notorious wrongful convictions of our time. Vilified by tabloids and betrayed by a justice system, she spent years fighting not just for her freedom, but for her truth — the actual truth — to be told.Now a bestselling author, journalist, and advocate, Amanda is reclaiming her voice and dismantling the false narratives adopted by a media fever storm that once defined her. Find out how Hulu’s highly anticipated limited series "The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox" empowered her to finally seize control of her own story, and how another woman who intimately understands media vilification, none other than Monica Lewinsky, joined the deeply personal fight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alyson Stoner appeared in over 200 films, TV shows and tours, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture long before they were old enough to drive. But being a child star is not for the faint of heart!In this candid conversation with Sophia, Alyson opens up about their tumultuous childhood in Hollywood, sharing first-hand knowledge of exploitation and offering constructive insights on how to fix the broken system.Alyson's memoir, "Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything" is out now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Hale has infused humor and heart into hilariously awkward TV characters on "Arrested Development" and "Veep," and now he’s taking on a profoundly different role in the fantasy-drama “Sketch” — a beautiful film he worked for eight years to make.Hear which moment in the movie hit very close to home and even helped him be a better dad. Find out what traits he and Sophia share, and which one informed his character in “Arrested Development.” Plus, Tony tells why "Veep" writers would never have written storylines like the ones playing out in real life current events."Sketch" is in theaters now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lake Bell is known for acting, directing and screenwriting, and now she adds children’s author to her credits! Inspired by her young daughter’s journey with epilepsy, Lake hopes “All About Brains: A Book About People” will normalize the conversation about neurodivergency -- something Sophia wished people were doing when she was a child! Lake and Sophia get real about everything from politics to parenthood, including the plight of being a night owl with kids. Plus, Sophia shares a wild encounter inside an airport bathroom that’ll have every woman wondering what she’d do in that situation. “All About Brains: A Book About People” is available at booksellers everywhere.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award-winning actress Jurnee Smollett is a veteran of the big and small screen, and she’s not even 40 yet! The actress started her career when she was still in diapers and won a Critics' Choice award by the time she was eleven years old. Now she’s turning up the heat with her new Apple TV+ crime drama, “Smoke.” No stranger to tackling complex roles, Jurnee joins Sophia to talk about playing a brilliant but troubled detective in her new show, including her prep and research, the behind-the-scenes process of creating a world for her character, and what it was like watching it in front of an audience for the first time! She also opens up about her divorce, early childhood acting experiences, overcoming major working mom guilt, and her relationship with her siblings. New episodes of “Smoke” drop every Friday on AppleTV+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breakout star of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Bozoma Saint John joins Sophia at the Create and Cultivate Festival to share all the juicy details about trying to convince Sophia to join RHOBH! Is there a chance Sophia would take Boz's offer seriously? Then, Sophia turns the tables and digs into why Boz is not your typical 'housewife'. Plus, parenting cheat codes you need to know and the secret to slaying in the boardroom and in life!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The current administration's environmental rollbacks are certainly disheartening, but there are folks like Former Governor Jay Inslee who are on a mission to defeat climate change. Environmental advocate Jay Inslee joins Sophia to talk about the ongoing fight to protect our environment, the future of clean energy production, his entry into politics in his 30s, and how he was able to pass one of the strongest clean energy laws in the country. Plus, he shares personal experiences with climate-related disasters, the power of perseverance, and his work in progress. This is a chat full of hope that we could all use right about now!To learn more about the power of clean energy and how you can get involved, head on over to climatepower.us(http://climatepower.us/)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Changes are a part of life, and sharing one's experiences can help others navigate their life transitions. That's what philanthropist, businesswoman, and advocate for gender equality, Melinda French Gates, is hoping to do with her new memoir, "The Next Day."Get ready for a deeply personal conversation as Melinda joins Sophia to discuss her life, both in and out of the public eye. From her 'crisis of self' to her path to philanthropy, motherhood, and moving forward after her divorce, Melinda shares it all. Plus, she reveals her 'word of the year' and her work in progress!Melinda's book, "The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward," is out now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of our favorite guests is back on the pod! Multi-award-winning actor, producer, director, and proud father David Oyelowo has been very busy in front of and behind the camera! Currently, he can be seen in his Apple TV+ series “Government Cheese,” and if you love the art of acting, this chat is not to be missed! The actor joins Sophia for a revealing conversation about his new show and the long road to getting it made, being a forever student of acting and storytelling, the things you can’t learn in drama school, the sheer amount of rejection you will face in this industry, and the key to successfully pitching projects! Plus, he chats about him and his wife being “half empty nesters,” how he feels about his son going to the same drama school he did, and his current work in progress!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melanie Lynskey has viewers glued to their TVs with her on-screen work in Showtime's Emmy-nominated hit series, “Yellowjackets,” but she once thought the show would never get off the ground! The award-winning actress joins Sophia to discuss her ever-evolving career in Hollywood, women’s experiences in the industry, and why she thought nothing would come of “Yellowjackets!” She also opens up about overcoming her eating disorder, loving motherhood, why she goes to a psychic, and the deliciousness of being on a hit show in her 40s! Plus, Melanie revisits her time working with Kate Winslet on “Heavenly Creatures” 30 years ago, being obsessed with her hubby’s (Jason Ritter) show “Matlock,” and she and Sophia trade stories about meeting and fangirling over Megan Thee Stallion!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

True talent speaks for itself, and Micael Urie has it in droves! From playing fan favorite catty assistant Marc St. James on "Ugly Betty" to playing a hilarious narcissistic attorney in Apple TV+'s "Shrinking" to entertaining fans with his podcast and putting queer stories front and center with Pride Plays! Actor, producer, writer, and director Michael Urie joins Sophia to chat about his acting journey, including a fascinating chat about the interesting relationship actors have with the camera, what he has learned from Harrison Ford on the set of "Shrinking," what it was like hosting the GLAAD awards, and working (playing) with his "Ugly Betty" co-star and real-life friend Becki Newton on the rewatch podcast "Still Ugly!"Plus, he shares the backstory on co-founding Pride Plays and putting queer stories center stage, what his younger self would think of his career, and what he believes is the greatest show ever!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve seen the headlines, the news footage, and the online outrage about the ICE raids in LA, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joins Sophia to give a real-time report on the State of the City.How did a small pocket of unruly protesters in one of the largest populations in America lead to military movement on city streets? Should law-abiding Angelinos be living in fear?Mayor Bass sounds the alarm on the daily departure from due process, and what could be next in the immigration sweeps happening across the country.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Activist and author Shannon Watts has an important message for women - it is not too late — and you are not too old! — to go after what you really want. The founder of Moms Demand Action is back on the pod with Sophia to chat about the inspiration and message behind her new book, "Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age." Shannon opens up about the turning point in her life, the phone call from Maria Shriver that led to her new book, and the inspirational stories from women living their most authentic lives. Plus, real talk from Sophia and Shannon about living with ADHD, Michelle Obama's parenting advice, and the importance of practicing hope . . . especially through the next four years. "Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age" will be available for purchase on June 17. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Her motto in fourth grade was, 'If you can believe it and dream it, you can do it!' And Heather McMahan has done it! She's got a standup special streaming on Hulu right now, is on the road with her Bamboozled comedy tour, and is the host of her own popular podcast, "Absolutely Not!" The comedian joins Sophia to discuss life on the road, the inspiration behind her podcast, and why hosting awards red-carpet shows is the wildest experience ever, but she has a bigger goal in sight . . . hosting the big show itself - The Emmys! Yes, she's manifesting! Plus, Heather opens up about how losing her Dad impacted her comedy, how grief can expand one's capacity for joy, and how she knew her husband was the 'right one.'Heather's comedy special, "Breadwinner," is streaming on Hulu now, and for info on how to see her live and in person on her Bamboozled tour, visit heatherontour.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Triple threat, O-T Fagbenle, has had viewers glued to their screens with his portrayal of Luke on Hulu's "The Handmaid's Tale," which is coming to its conclusion after six intense seasons!The actor, writer, and director joins Sophia to talk about the final season of the Emmy-winning show, including his evolving relationship with his on-screen wife, June Osborne — aka Elisabeth Moss — his audition for the role, and his feelings about the show ending. Plus, a deep dive into AI, a conversation about politics and community, and O-T's heartfelt work in progress.The final episode of "The Handmaid's Tale" will drop on Tuesday, May 27, on Hulu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Temperatures are climbing in here! Radio and podcast host and NY Times best-selling author, Tinx, has just dropped her anticipated debut fiction novel, "Hotter in the Hamptons!” It’s a romance for a new generation, sizzling with sexual tension! TikTok’s “big sister” joins Sophia to talk all about her steamy new tale — including addressing the ghostwriting drama — her novel getting the TV treatment, and what she learned in her 20s that she wants all young women to know! Plus, dating red flags, learning boundaries as a content creator, and her work in progress! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a small-town girl doing plays as an 8-year-old in Macon, Georgia, to being a leading lady on her own hit TV show! Carrie Preston shines as 'Elsbeth Tascioni' in one of CBS' most successful dramas, a show she thought would never see the light of day!Carrie Preston is opening up to Sophia about reprising the Emmy-winning role of 'Elsbeth,' which viewers first saw on the small screens 15 years ago in "The Good Wife," and what it's like playing a woman of a certain age reinventing herself. She also shares her journey to becoming an actress, director, and producer and using her platform for good.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's no secret that Tony Award-winning actress Annaleigh Ashford is a versatile force to be reckoned with! From her captivating performances on Broadway in 'Legally Blonde' and 'Wicked' to her current role on the small screen in the true crime drama "Happy Place," she's proven she can do it all! Act, sing, and dance, but did you know she's also good at impressions?Ever get together with a friend you're comfortable around, and you let loose and start making silly voices? That happens a lot when Annaleigh joins Sophia on the pod, and it's hilarious! Besides slipping into her 'puppet Judy Garland' character, the actress talks about her new series based on a real-life story and why it's different from other true crime drama shows, making the transition from stage to television, and why it's so easy to slip into people-pleasing mode on sets. Plus, she opens up about working alongside the late great James Earl Jones on the Broadway revival of "You Can't Take It With You" and the surprising request he made near the end of their show's run that taught her an unforgettable lesson! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TV viewers welcomed Susan Kelechi Watson into their homes for six seasons as the beloved Beth Pearson on 'This is Us.' Now, viewers can see her in a totally different role in the Shondaland whodunit 'The Residence.'The actress joins Sophia to chat all about her time on the Netflix murder mystery, including what it was like walking onto the very detailed sets, the star-studded cast, the talk of a second season, and they both compare notes on what it's like working at Shondaland!Plus, Susan reveals her path to becoming an actor, which started when she was just three years old! She also opens up about the significance of her role as 'Beth' on "This is Us," words of wisdom for aspiring actors, and her work in progress. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get ready for a big dose of fun when Dr. Teddy Altman makes a house call to the pod!Yes, it's a Cass and Teddy reunion! Actress, producer, and director Kim Raver joins Sophia to talk about Grey's Anatomy, from breaking down the dynamic of their characters' on-screen chemistry and how they approached the will-they-or-won’t-they open marriage storyline — with Kevin McKidd and the writers too! — to some fun behind-the-scenes stories you need to hear stat!Plus, a blast from the past! Kim talks about her TV debut on Sesame Street and how public arts changed her life. She also shares her inspiration for getting behind the camera, attending Debbie Allen's unofficial school of directing, and swaps stories with Sophia about each of their first days on Grey's and how the cast welcomed them to the set!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michelle Obama reveals her TV guilty (and not so guilty) pleasures, her love of tennis, a good martini, motherhood and marriage. Listen to Michelle's podcast, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FLOTUS, wife, mother, author, attorney, advocate, television producer and host of the podcast IMO…Michelle Obama is here! Listen to Michelle's podcast, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If the daily headlines coming out of the White House are making you feel antsy, discouraged, angry, or overwhelmed…you're not alone!There are people out there fighting the good fight, like Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, and those helping us make sense of the political drama, like political strategist Jordan C. Brown. They want people to know that even though things are feeling dark right now - public sentiment is working! They tell Sophia about the small victories setting the stage for even larger triumphs down the road, the Signal leak and what's really going on, advice for those who want to engage in activism, and lifting the curtain on political theater! Swalwell recalls the time Ted Cruz publicly trashed him on TV, only to turn around the next day and tell him privately he was doing "a really good job!" It's a story you don't want to miss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

POTUS is in the house! Bellamy Young has been a busy actor for 30 years, tackling many roles, including playing President Mellie Grant on the hit show ‘Scandal.' Now, she's teaming up with humanitarian group Care to uplift women's voices.Bellamy Young shares with Sophia what inspired her to use her platform to highlight women leaders from around the globe in her new podcast "She Leads With CARE." She also reveals the obstacles to doing a podcast in multiple languages worldwide, the inspiring stories that left her in tears, what's possible when we care, her work in progress, and the new sci-fi novel she wrote! Bellamy also opens up about her time on 'Scandal,' from what the atmosphere on set was like to her feelings about working with Shonda Rhimes, and whether she thinks the cast would really be up for a reboot! Her answer is scandalously good! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.