Podcast appearances and mentions of Willie Geist

From a Long Island teen interviewing his comedy heroes on a high school radio station to the producer, director, and writer behind The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Anchorman, Trainwreck, and more, Judd Apatow is a modern-day comedy icon. He sits down with Willie Geist at New York's Gotham Comedy Club to trace his rise to fame, from the tough early years and the mentorship of Garry Shandling to how the cancellation of Freaks and Geeks ultimately helped launch a generation of stars. Apatow also talks about his new scrapbook-style book Comedy Nerd, his love of stand-up, and his deep dive into documentaries, including new films on Mel Brooks and Norm Macdonald. Along the way, he reflects on how setbacks shaped his success, and the persistence that's kept him creating for more than two decades. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For more than 30 years, Jim Gaffigan has been making audiences laugh with his signature blend of honesty, self-deprecation, and heart, cementing his place among the most beloved voices in comedy. In this conversation from February 2021, he joins Willie Geist to reflect on three decades in stand-up, the comedy of family life, and the unexpected quarantine hobby that kept him grounded: cross-country skiing. Want to be in the room when Jim and Willie catch up next? Sunday Sitdown Live returns to New York's City Winery on November 10, and you can get tickets now at TODAY.com/FanFest. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get ready for the big reveal! The Today Show's Halloween extravaganza is back and bigger than ever. Join us on the Plaza as our anchors pull out all the stops with their jaw-dropping and unforgettable costumes. You won't believe who they're dressing up as this year — tune in for the surprise, the spectacle, and all the spooky fun! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest on Hurricane Melissa as the Category 5 storm makes landfall in Jamaica. Also, new details on reported mass layoffs at Amazon and how they could affect your shopping. Plus, a closer look at how investigators are tracking down the Louvre jewelry heist thieves. And, how real estate agents are using AI to attract buyers—and what consumers should know. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Judd Apatow stops by to talk about his new book ‘Comedy Nerd: A Lifelong Obsession in Stories and Pictures', which welcomes readers into his comedic world. Also, the incredible story of an NFL coach's search for the father he never knew—and how close they'd actually been all along. Plus, our Shop TODAY team shares can't-miss deals on durable, long-lasting products. And, Ree Drummond serves up a delicious pot roast with mashed potatoes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two decades after his breakout album It's Time, five-time Grammy Award winner Michael Bublé sits down with Willie Geist at New York's Blue Note Jazz Club to reflect on his journey from Canadian fishing boats to global fame. Bublé opens up about the grandfather who introduced him to Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, the early gigs that shaped his craft, and the moment that changed everything in his career. He also talks about his love for Christmas music, the perspective he gained after his son's illness, and his return as a coach on NBC's The Voice, where he's chasing his third straight win. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael J. Fox is an award-winning actor, author, and philanthropist whose talent, humor, and heart have inspired generations. Four decades after Back to the Future made him a global star, Michael J. Fox sits down with Willie Geist to reflect on the film that defined a generation and the resilience that's defined his life since. He opens up about the whirlwind of becoming Marty McFly at 23, the joy of rediscovering the movie as a fan, and the impact of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which has raised more than $2.5 billion for Parkinson's research. Plus, through decades of challenges and triumphs, Fox shares why he still believes “everything is possible.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The jewelry designer behind Taylor Swift's engagement ring, Kindred Lubeck makes her 1A debut and opens up about the piece that garnered global attention and her journey long before the overnight success. Also, Maria Shriver, sat down with women innovators who are rewriting the way people look into health and aging and the unexpected ways they are trying to change the quality of life for older women who are more likely to suffer from debilitating diseases. Plus, NBC News' Jacob Soboroff goes behind-the-scenes of Netflix's "Nobody Wants This" and catches up with the cast as the countdown to season 2 is on. And, Carson Daly is joined by his wife Siri Daly for a special edition of TODAY Food Loves Football.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest details in President Trump's anticipated high stakes meeting with Ukraine's leader at the White House just one day after a surprise phone call with Russia's Vladimir Putin. Also, new developments in the indictment of Former Trump National Security Adviser John Bolton, accused of mishandling classified information. Plus, urgent rescues are underway in Alaska where a devastating storm has wiped out communities along the state's coastline and military planes are now being used in what officials are calling the most significant airlift operation in the state's history.  And, NBC's Tom Costello joins to discuss new research showing robocalls are hitting a 6 year high. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

TODAY's Willie Geist returns and joins in on the fun to co-host with Jenna. Willie helps viewers through some tricky situations in a 'Modern Manners' Edition of 'Social Dilemmas'.  Also, Sherri Shepherd stops by to discuss her children's book The Sunshine Queens. Plus, Hardee Bhavsar opens up about her journey running the TCS New York City Marathon and how it was more than just setting a record. And, social media superstar, Eli Rallo talks about her newest project Does Anyone Else Feel This Way and the inspiration behind her book of essays.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Over the past three decades, Matthew McConaughey has starred in more than 50 films, won an Academy Award for Dallas Buyers Club, delivered an Emmy-nominated performance in True Detective and topped bestseller lists with his memoir, Greenlights, but he's still chasing something more meaningful. In his latest project, The Lost Bus, he tells the gripping true story of a school bus driver who risked everything to save 23 children during the 2018 Camp Fire, California's deadliest wildfire. McConaughey sits down with Willie Geist to reflect on acting alongside his teenage son Levi and his 93-year-old mother in the film and how the project deepened his perspective on fatherhood, legacy, and what really matters. He also discusses his new book Poems & Prayers, the power of belief in a cynical world, and why risk-taking has defined his career. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Willie Geist joins Jenna for a game of The Great Debate. Also, Aubrey Plaza discusses her new children's book, “Luna and the Witch Throw a Halloween Party.” Plus, dating advice influencer Laurie Cooper joins for a Martini Meetup. And, Today Food culinary producer Anthony Contrino celebrates National Cake Decorating Day. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenna and Willie weigh in on some listeners' tricky social situations. Also, Emilia Jones stops by to talk about her thrilling new HBO series ‘Task.' Plus, a closer look at the Lulada Club — the all-women's salsa orchestra fueling the resurgence of the salsa scene across the U.S. And, chef Kwame Onwuachi shares a delicious recipe for BBQ greens inspired by his Afro-Caribbean roots. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenna and Willie weigh in on some viral social media debates causing a stir right now. Also, Morris Chestnut stops by to catch up and talk about his latest role as the famed Dr. John Watson from the legendary Sherlock Holmes stories in the series ‘Watson.' Plus, lifestyle expert Jasmine Snow shares a few looks to help you feel your best, whether it's for a job interview or a new role. And, a look at Princeton Review's annual best colleges ranking. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we go back to October of 2021 to listen in on Donny's conversation with, co-anchor of MSNBC's “Morning Joe” and anchor of “Sunday Today”, the nicest guy on TV, Willie Geist. Together they take through Willie's journey from doing musicals as a kid in New Jersey, meeting his future wife at 11 years old, and getting his start as a freelance producer at MSNBC. Willie shares his secret to a long and happy marriage, the power of not keeping "score", and the importance of having humility. Most importantly, Donny gets to the core of Willie's brand of authenticity and being truly decent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jenna is joined by Willie Geist as they catch up on Hollywood's latest headlines. Also, Miranda Kerr is live in Studio 1A to discuss life as a mom and her skincare brand. Plus, a look at a story that reminds us it's never too late to live out your dreams. And, Jaleel White chats about the second season of his game show, "The Flip Side." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Known for his early roles in Disco Pigs and Peaky Blinders, Cillian Murphy's career reached new heights with his Oscar-winning performance in Oppenheimer, a script he calls one of the greatest things he's ever read. Murphy sits down with Willie Geist to reflect on the cultural phenomenon of Oppenheimer, including his surprise that its complex structure and themes connected with such a massive audience and how Christopher Nolan's bold decision to write the script in the first person shaped his performance. He also opens up about his latest project, Steve, a heartfelt story of a teacher fighting to hold his school together while grappling with his own struggles mirrored by the challenges of one of his students, as well as what fans can expect from the upcoming Peaky Blinders movie. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two Delta planes collide on a taxiway at New York's LaGuardia Airport. Also, the latest on the government shutdown and its impact on politics and everyday life for Americans. Plus, remembering the life and legacy of primatologist and anthropologist Jane Goodall, who died at 91. And, a closer look at how social media may be fueling the growing divide among Americans. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shop TODAY lifestyle expert Makho Ndlovu shares must-have products in fashion, beauty, home, and more. Also, Hoda returns with a special surprise tied to one man's inspiring story. Plus, chef Paola Velez whips up a bodega brownie whoopie pie in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Willie Geist, Dusty Dvoracek joins the show.

Willie Geist joins the show.

Lin-Manuel Miranda is a Tony, Emmy, Grammy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning artist who revolutionized Broadway with his groundbreaking musical Hamilton. In this throwback conversation from November 2021, Miranda sits down with Willie Geist to reflect on the inception of Hamilton, the influence Rent had on his life, and how he paid tribute to Jonathan Larson in his directorial debut of Tick, Tick… Boom! starring Andrew Garfield. He also shares why he continues to push boundaries by blending theater, film, and music to create transformative stories. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nathan Lane is a three-time Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor beloved for his roles on stage and screen, from The Producers and The Birdcage to voicing Timon in Disney's The Lion King. In this conversation from March 2023, Lane opens up to Willie Geist about his return to Broadway in Pictures from Home, his journey from theater to Hollywood, and the performances that have defined his decades-long career. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nicole Scherzinger is a Tony Award–winning actress and Grammy-nominated singer who made her Broadway debut in Sunset Boulevard, which earned her the 2025 Tony for Best Leading Actress in a Musical. In this Sunday Sitdown from July 2025, Scherzinger joins Willie Geist over pizza to reflect on her run as Norma Desmond, her chart-topping career with The Pussycat Dolls and her new Netflix show Building the Band. She also opens up about her friendship with Liam Payne and working with him on his last major TV appearance before his passing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cynthia Erivo is a Grammy, Tony, and Emmy Award-winning powerhouse who first stunned Broadway audiences in The Color Purple and recently took on one of musical theater's most iconic roles: Elphaba in Wicked. In this chat from October 2024, Erivo joins Willie Geist to talk about stepping into the emerald spotlight opposite of her friend Ariana Grande and the thrill of seeing Wicked billboards light up Times Square ahead of the highly anticipated film adaptation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leslie Odom, Jr., who was Willie Geist's very first Sunday Sitdown guest nearly a decade ago, is returning to Broadway to reprise his Tony and Grammy Award-winning role as Aaron Burr in Hamilton. In this conversation, Odom reflects on why stepping back into the role ten years later feels like a homecoming and how the standing ovations take him back to his 17-year-old self who dreamt of being part of Broadway. He also opens up about life beyond the stage as an author, singer and father, sharing how joy, healing, and intention continue to guide his latest chapter. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From fleeing Cuba as a young girl to becoming the Queen of Latin Pop, Gloria Estefan's journey to prominence has been defined by resilience. In this sitdown from May 2025, Estefan reflects on her family's story, her lifelong love with Emilio Estefan, and the global success of hits like “Conga.” She also opens up about returning to the stage after her 1990 bus accident, releasing her first Spanish-language album in 18 years, Raíces, and her new musical, Basura. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From her breakout role on Desperate Housewives to thriving today as an actor, director, producer, and entrepreneur, Eva Longoria has one of the most multifaceted careers in Hollywood. In this conversation from March 2025, Longoria opens up to Willie Geist about how her childhood in Texas shaped her journey, her perspective on fame, family, and longevity in Hollywood at 50, and her starring role in Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip. She also talks about her work behind the camera and building her tequila brand, Casa Del Sol. 

As the Emmy-winning host of Last Week Tonight, John Oliver has redefined political comedy with his wit and satire. In this sitdown from February 2024, Oliver joins Willie Geist at a pub to watch his beloved Liverpool football club and preview the 2024 season of Last Week Tonight. He also reflects on his bold decision to move to America for a dream job on The Daily Show, a leap that set the stage for his late-night success.

A four-time Emmy winner for his legendary role as Walter White in Breaking Bad, Bryan Cranston's made a massive mark on Hollywood. In this conversation from December 2020, Cranston talks to Willie Geist about starring in Showtime's Your Honor and reuniting with Aaron Paul to launch Dos Hombres Mezcal. He also reflects on the enduring legacy of Breaking Bad and why he's often drawn to morally complex characters.

Nominated for an Emmy for his starring role in Shrinking, Jason Segel has proven his versatility across dramas and comedies over the last 20 years. In this sitdown from October 2024, Segel opens up to Willie Geist about working alongside Harrison Ford in Shrinking, his long run of comedies from Forgetting Sarah Marshall to How I Met Your Mother, and the life-changing advice he received from Judd Apatow. 

With her Emmy-winning role in Abbott Elementary, Sheryl Lee Ralph has become a powerful voice for educators while cementing her place as one of Hollywood's most enduring talents. In this conversation from February 2024, Ralph sits down with Willie Geist to celebrate her career renaissance after decades in the business and shares how Robert De Niro gave her advice that kept her moving in her career.

From Rocky to Rambo to his latest hit Tulsa King, Sylvester Stallone has spent decades defying the odds. Long before Hollywood stardom, he was a struggling actor in a New York apartment, writing the script for Rocky that would change his life. In this Sitdown, Stallone reflects on the hardships that fueled his drive, why he refused to let anyone else play Rocky, and how receiving the Kennedy Center Honors has impacted his perspective on legacy.

Writer and actress Issa Rae stops by to discuss her documentary on the history of black television, “Seen and Heard”. Also, Issa plays “Don't Look Back”, where she'll have to guess television shows based off descriptions from Willie and Savannah. Plus, “Diary of a CEO” podcaster Steven Bartlett shares his story and gives advice to listeners on the value of failure. And, catching up with Bethenny Frankel on motherhood and her recent move to Florida. 

Jenna Bush-Hager sits down with parents of victims of the Camp Mystic flooding to discuss the tragedy and their goals for change. Also, comedian Whitney Cummings stops by to discuss her new standup tour and how becoming a mother has impacted her life and comedy. Plus, Whitney plays “The Random Objects Roast”, where she'll have to hilariously roast objects that Jenna will present to her. And, Food Network's Chef Michael Symon tutorials his favorite game-day wings just in time for football season. 

Host of “Football Night in America” Maria Taylor previews some fun storylines from the upcoming NFL football season. Also, catching up with actor David Duchovny as he shares his debut poetry book,  About Time. Plus, cookbook author Dina Deleasa-Gonsar shares a quick and easy apple cider chicken dinner to make during back-to-school season. And, sitting down with Zoey Deutch to discuss her new unconventional rom-com “The Threesome.”

A trio of stars — James Corden, Neil Patrick Harris and Bobby Cannavale — stop by to discuss joining forces for the new Broadway play ‘Art.' Also, the story behind a teacher going viral for his passion and enthusiasm that is inspiring his students and the internet. Plus, dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman shares her top five beauty secrets from around the world. And, Jenna and Willie play a game of ‘Pop Off,' where they try to guess pop culture answers based on fun clues.

Alicia Keys is a musical powerhouse, known for her timeless voice, soulful ballads and fearless artistry. In this conversation from April 2024, she joins Willie ahead of the Broadway debut of Hell's Kitchen, the coming-of-age musical inspired by her life. Alicia reflects on the decade of work it took to bring the show to the stage, the personal stories behind it, and the enduring legacy of her music.

Grammy Award-winning artist Bad Bunny sat down with Willie Geist to discuss his historic concert residency in Puerto Rico and his foray into acting with his latest movie "Caught Stealing".

Few artists have walked a path like Jelly Roll, who grew up surrounded by struggle and addiction before choosing redemption. In this sitdown from October 2024, Jelly Roll talks with Willie about his transformation from rapper to country star, the resilience that shaped his music, and the persistence that led him to selling out arenas across the country.

Machine Gun Kelly has built a career on defying expectations, first breaking out as a Cleveland rapper, then reinventing himself as a punk rock star. In this chat from October 2021, MGK opens up to Willie about his musical evolution, his high-profile relationship with Megan Fox, and how music has carried him through fame, anxiety, substance abuse, and loss.

Olivia Rodrigo skyrocketed to global fame with her record-breaking debut Sour, reshaping pop music with her voice, lyrics, and honesty. In this conversation from September 2023, she and Willie talk about the release of her sophomore album Guts, the way she tells stories through her music, and why she refuses to reveal the true inspiration behind her hit single “Vampire.”

A look back at the major milestones of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's love story and the moments that led up to their engagement. Also, Willie sits down with Bad Bunny to talk about the global sensation's residency in Puerto Rico, his dip into acting and more. Plus, our Shop TODAY team reveals the winners of the first Sleep Awards. And, chef Andy Quinn shares a few dishes to cook up for the end of summer.

SNL stars Bowen Yang and Kenan Thompson battle in a game of 'Prompter Wars.' Also, Michelle Buteau shares details on her new show 'Survival of the Thickest.' Plus, Jenna and Ego Nwodim try a bungee fitness class. And, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka talks her new stand-up special. 

Maya Rudolph knew early on she was born to make people laugh, but her run on Saturday Night Live cemented her place as a comedy powerhouse. In this chat from September 2018, Willie sits down with Maya inside SNL's iconic Studio 8H to talk about her favorite celebrity impressions, working alongside icons like Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, and how the show became her comedy boot camp, paving the way for hit roles in Bridesmaids and her Amazon series Forever with Fred Armisen.

Known for his quick wit, Vince Vaughn has been a fixture of Hollywood comedies for more than two decades, starring in hits like Swingers and Wedding Crashers. In this Sunday Sitdown from May 2025, Vince joins Willie Geist at Enoteca Maria on Staten Island, the Italian restaurant that inspired his new Netflix film Nonnas. They talk about his career of iconic roles and even meet Joe Scaravella, the man who's life inspired the story of the film.

One of comedy's most influential voices, Tina Fey has left her mark on entertainment in countless ways. In this sitdown from January 2024, she and Willie discuss her experience writing, producing, and starring in the Mean Girls reboot, and look back on her days writing and performing on Saturday Night Live, the launchpad that made her a household name.

Willie Geist gets together with comedy icon Will Ferrell to talk about Ferrell's time on SNL, the famous movie lines that are always quoted back to him and his new movie, "You're Cordially Invited" where he stars alongside Reese Witherspoon. (Original broadcast date February 2025)

Willie Geist sits down with the host of "The Late Show", Stephen Colbert, to chat about Stephen's rise to fame and the pivotal moment he knew he would be able to make a career out of comedy. He also shares some of his favorite recipes from his cookbook, “Does This Taste Funny?” (Original broadcast date October 13, 2024)

A new wave of tariffs takes effect — what it means for global markets and American consumers. Also, United Airlines flights resume after the airline resolves a technology issue that caused ground stops at several major U.S. airports. Plus, Eli Lilly says it's one step closer to FDA approval for a first-of-its-kind oral weight loss medication. And, what to do about cruise fare hikes and where to find the best deals on sea travel.