Zach Sang Show

We can't believe it's taken this long, but Lance Bass is finally making his Zach Sang Show debut! Lance joins us to talk about his new show 'Cocktail Wars' with longtime bestie and fellow 'NSYNC member Joey Fatone, filming 10 shows in five days, and just how much liquor was imbibed. He takes us back to the early days of 'NSYNC, from living together and figuring out his place in the group to the moment he realized just how famous they'd become. We get into the Lou Pearlman of it all, why the guys didn't walk away nearly as rich as people assumed, the supposed rivalry with Backstreet Boys, his friendship with their members, and where things stand with an 'NSYNC reunion.Lance also opens up about growing up gay in Mississippi, spending his boy-band years in the closet, and the secret relationships and celebrity crushes of the '90s. Plus, he tells us about his intense six months training to become a cosmonaut in Russia, his 'Zoolander' cameo, making out with Danielle Fishel, discovering Ryan Tedder (with a little…

Nessa Barrett was just here five months ago to talk about her EP 'Jesus Loves a PrimaDonna' — and now she’s already back with her third album, 'Tough Love.' She talks about how that EP informed the new record, becoming Bunny — and the various characters on the record as facets of her — imagining her exes watching from the audience, making “Fetish” her BPD hot-girl anthem, the Fleetwood Mac and Eagles influence on “Coming Home Again,” and the stories behind “Candy,” “Dracula,” “Glamorous” and “God Gave Me Expensive Taste.”Nessa also opens up about sex, intimacy and why this is the first time she’s written about those experiences, plus why she isn’t looking for love right now. And then we get into her into her dark-romance obsession — specifically the ‘Edge of Darkness’ trilogy, the five books she’s apparently written, whether she’ll ever publish under an alias, her new-ish tramp stamp, moonwater — and Nessa having absolutely no idea what a Sidekick is.Stream "Tough Love"►►…

Things get a little witchy — and a lot chaotic — when the ‘Coven Academy’ stars Malina Pauli Weissman, Jordan Leftwich, Ora Duplass, and Louis Thresher hit the couch. The new supernatural series follows three teenage witches at an elite magic school in New Orleans, where they’re learning to control their powers while dealing with friendship, grief, dangerous secrets and, naturally, some very complicated crushes. Malina plays Briar, Jordan plays mind-reading Sasha, Ora plays time-bending Tegan, and Louis? Well he's struggling as the newly turned vampire Ollie. Also at the center of the story is Malachi Barton as warlock Jake — Ollie’s competition in a love triangle with Briar.We talk about the very real chemistry that emerged during chemistry reads (even via Zoom), first on-screen kisses, who the cast ship in the Briar/Jake/Ollie love triangle, and finding pieces of themselves in their characters. Plus: anxiety and OCD, grief, the show’s take on witches and vampires (and vampires queer energy overall), their…

Chelsea Cutler is back on the pod! She’s been here many times over the years, but this time there’s a lot to catch up on — a new city, a new relationship, a new era and her fourth album, ‘IS THIS THE END?’Chelsea opens up about making the record in real time during a particularly vulnerable and challenging season of her life, and why she’s not interested in wrapping everything up with neat answers or resolution. We get into the chaos of being in your 20s, turning 30 and feeling like she’s living through her own coming-of-age movie, moving to LA, heartbreak, dating multiple people, Hinge, exploring her sexuality, and what she’s actually attracted to in a partner. She also talks about her OCD diagnosis and therapy, coming off antidepressants, learning to sit in stillness, the internet discourse around “BAD,” her Chatty Cathy tendencies, “THE CAR RIDE HOME,” her sing-lisp, the possibility of another Jeremy Zucker collab — and, naturally, bangs, Botox and lasers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy…

Hasan Minhaj joins us to talk about his new Netflix movie 'Best of the Best,' a college comedy set in the fiercely competitive world of Bollywood fusion dance. He gets into why this was basically Greek life for the South Asian diaspora, writing the movie during lockdown with Prashanth Venkataramanujam and pulling from some painfully true stories from his own life — including bidding hundreds of dollars he didn’t have on his future wife Beena at a UC Davis date auction. We also talk the star power of Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, the “Mindy Kaling effect,” A.R. Rahman, the Koh-i-Noor diamond, and why it’s taken so long to make a film like this one.Hasan also talks about being more present, making time away from his kids count and why he wants his work to entertain while still saying something. We get into finding love, laughter, and joy in a divided world, appreciation versus appropriation, his 2017 White House Correspondents’ Dinner and why “action is the antidote to anxiety.” Plus: does hard work actually equal…

The 53-year-old Ital-Chicago native has spent decades turning the everyday absurdities of family, relationships, and human behavior into observational comedy, going from waiting tables for years to honing his craft at The Comedy Store (which he still does) to becoming one of the biggest touring comedians in the country. He joins us to break down his growing SiriusXM podcast universe, including his latest monthly interview series “We Got Company,” while reflecting on joke building, and whether he’s slowly turning into his dad. He also talks about Robert De Niro wanting to spend time with his father while making ‘About My Father,’ getting notes from his dad and how seriously he takes raising grounded kids.We also give Sebastian a crash course in current slang and looksmaxxing, which leads us into his own physical glow-up, skincare and very specific shower routine. Plus: aging jokes, brushing your teeth in the shower, Zach and Dan’s dental habits, Dan’s inability to hold eye contact, carving pumpkins with…

Waterparks’ Awsten Knight is back on the show — at this point, we’ve genuinely lost count of how many times he’s been here — but this time he’s joining us to talk about the band’s new album 'JINX.'Three years in the making, Awsten breaks down the themes behind the record, from existential dread and losing father figures to talking to his inner child and why creativity, for him, is so rooted in that younger version of himself. He also gets into rebuilding the Waterparks team, taking their live shows back to more intimate rooms and collaborating with Blink-182’s Mark Hoppus thanks to an assist from Dillon Francis.Predictably the conversation winds up unpredictable. Awsten talks skincare, scoring video games, why making 'JINX' was “better than therapy,” DeuxMoi making it onto the album and whether Austin is actually a good kisser. We also get into his suspiciously soft feet and aloe socks, Otto’s abs, Zach, Dan and Awsten’s sleeping habits, his paranormal obsession, homemade Ouija boards and EMF readers —…

Meet No Na, the 88rising-signed Indonesian girl group made up of Christy Gardena, Esther Geraldine, Baila Fauri and Shazfa Adesya. This is actually their second time on the show — we first met them last year (unreleased), but now they’re back with a whole debut album, 'island girl,' to dig into.The girls get into their Indonesian roots and the sounds of home that have made their way into the record, from gamelan to angkot horns, plus what it’s like hearing fans around the world learn Bahasa to sing along. We break down "seafood diet," "party in the +62" and "nick of time," their vocal evolution, and which Indonesian instruments they want to experiment with next.Plus we find out more about the girls as individuals: who is the nerd, who was the gymnast, who was in ‘Indonesian Idol’ and ‘Indonesian Idol Jr.’ and the virality of ‘rollerblade.’ They also explain their roles in the group, the influence of Tyler, the Creator, they launch a passionate campaign for justice for durian (which also happens to be a song…

Freya Skye is back! We first had her in back in 2025 alongside the cast of ‘ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires,’ and this time the British singer and actress joins us solo to talk about her latest single ‘Bad Taste’ — bad taste in romantic partners, that is, and finding her identity outside of Disney. She gets into establishing her aesthetic, why she doesn’t think she’s cool, busking at 12, Junior Eurovision, the challenges of the Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour tour, and her connection with Alex Warren and the hugely supportive parents who helped her chase her dreams from an early age.Freya also talks about the 40 songs she’s already made for her upcoming album, working with Julia Michaels and her love of Noah Kahan and Taylor Swift. Plus, she reflects on being just 14 when she was cast in ‘ZOMBIES 4,’ taking on the responsibility of a beloved franchise, shooting the fifth installment earlier this year, her ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ guest appearance, and her biggest dreams for what comes next.Stream…

Bella Poarch returns for the second time and this time the US Navy veteran turned social media star turned pop powerhouse joins us to dig into her long-awaited debut album ‘Picnic at the Cemetery.’ An incredible visual artist and world-builder, Bella explains how the Filipino tradition of celebrating All Saints’ Day inspired the record, why cemeteries have always felt safe to her and the origin of the Bigheads — characters born partly from the imaginary friends who helped her through a childhood of bullying and abuse. She also opens up about depression, abandonment, maladaptive daydreaming (and what that is), and how writing ‘Ribcage’ made her realize the 20-plus songs she already had weren’t telling her full truth, ultimately changing the direction of the entire album.Bella takes us inside songs including ‘Stay Gone,’ ‘Garden,’ ‘Tooth,’ ‘Nice to Meet Ya’ and ‘My Heaven Is Alone,’ reflecting on relationships, infidelity, and her experience in a military psychiatric ward, as well as the deeply personal story…

Tove Lo is back! One of our favorite return guests joins us to talk about her sixth album, ‘Estrus,’ out September 18, and the twisty four-year road that led her there. She breaks down the meaning behind the title — a female animal being “in heat” and why this resonates for her — and gets into writing the record in a tiny fishing village in Sweden, her Swedish versus LA selves, diving headfirst into dance music with SG Lewis and her DJ crew Ladies of Leisure.Tove also gets into what it’s like writing about love nine years into a relationship and contemplating motherhood. Are situationships harder to get over than relationships? And what’s up with her exes resurfacing whenever she releases new music — a phenom she addresses in “The Bad One.” Plus, we get into everything from her childhood detective alter ego Bianca Glitter Rose to working with Lisa and Rosalía, her relationship with mentor Max Martin, her stubbornness around ‘Habits (Stay High),’ why she prefers keeping the behind-the-scenes process behind…

21-year-old Japanese-Canadian actress Miku Martineau joins us to talk about her two very different Netflix worlds: returning as Yumeko in Season 2 of ‘Bet’ and starring as Teagan in ‘Crew Girl.’ She breaks down how she approached a character with existing manga lore versus building Teagan from the ground up, the surprising similarities between the two, going blonde for ‘Crew Girl,’ learning to row, doing her own stunts and what her gymnastics and Muay Thai background brings to the job. Plus, she teases ‘Bet’ Season 2 — which wrapped filming this summer — working with Saweetie, dives into the Yumekira fandom and weighs in on the messy Teagan-Josh-Cam love triangle.Miku also takes us back to growing up in Toronto, her parents’ restaurant, getting a scholarship to study film and TV acting in New York at 12 and landing an agent at 13 — despite once being told her braces would stop her from getting roles. We talk Japanese-Canadian representation, K-pop dance classes, hockey, volleyball, cast friendships, and her…

The inimitable Joey King joins us on the couch to talk about joining Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock in ‘Practical Magic 2.’ At just 27, Joey has already been acting for more than two decades, starting out in commercials at four before landing her breakout role opposite Selena Gomez in ‘Ramona and Beezus’ (which we chat about of course). In this wide-ranging convo she reflects on growing up on-screen, auditioning as the real work, and why acting is, inherently, a little embarrassing.Joey also gets into her longtime ‘Practical Magic’ fandom, working with Nicole and Sandy, the sisterhood at the heart of the movie, casting spells on set and midnight margaritas with her legendary co-stars. Plus, she talks texting with Nicole for life advice (as well as interrupting Nic and Zac Efron’s onscreen tryst in ‘A Family Affair,’ while almost choking on a grape), shaving her head and growing it back (and shaving it again and again), working with Christopher Nolan, learning from Patricia Arquette, her marriage to…

Medium Build, aka 35-year-old Nick Carpenter, joins us to talk about his new album 'King of Having Fun' and the evolution that brought him here. What starts off as a chat about his gold tooth winds up as a wide-ranging, earnest, honest, and very funny conversation covering his evangelical upbringing in Georgia, his hedonistic years in Anchorage, Alaska, his time in Nashville, his breakthrough 2024 album 'Country,' and some of the songs on his latest LP, including 'Perceived,' 'Feed the Boys' and 'Thank You, Cook.' Nick also gets into his complicated relationship with attention and acclaim, opens up about why he drank and his sobriety, and speaks candidly about the complicated line between embracing his queerness and feeling like he’s commodifying it, and so much more. This new record is his best yet, with that mindset reflected in an upbeat, high-def collection that still retains his ability to dig deep.Stream "King of Having Fun" ►► https://mediumbuild.lnk.to/KingOfHavingFunSUBSCRIBE to Our Podcast…

At 28 years old, New Milford, Connecticut native Jackson Olson has gone from chasing the traditional baseball dream to becoming one of the most recognizable faces of the Savannah Bananas — and now he’s trading Banana Ball for the ballroom on Season 35 of ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ Jackson joins us to talk about how he landed a spot on the Bananas, finding his personality as a performer in his early 20s, and the team’s mission to inject fun back into baseball. He breaks down how Banana Ball actually works, the social media machine behind the team, founders Jesse and Emily Cole’s PT Barnum-inspired approach to entertainment, his lingering MLB ambitions, and what he makes of critics — including Dave Portnoy — who think the Bananas are ruining baseball.Then it’s time to dance. Jackson talks about partnering with Emma Slater on ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ training for five hours a day until his feet were shredded, and why learning to dance has been one of the hardest things he’s ever done. He also opens up about…

Too $hort joins us to look back on more than four decades in hip-hop and the stories behind one of the genre’s most enduring careers. He takes us back to Oakland in the ’80s, when he was selling $20 custom raps on cassette to local drug dealers, and explains how his voice and name became famous around the Bay Area before people even knew what he looked like. He also gets into the stories behind songs like “Freaky Tales” and “Blowjob Betty,” his mother’s reaction to his music, the meaning of being a “player,” and why his supposed retirement in 1996 was never quite what it seemed.Now 60 years old and still going strong, he breaks down his place in hip-hop history, from the ’90s East Coast–West Coast rivalry and the rise of hyphy to the Lil Jon collaboration that changed the course of his career and the making of “Blow the Whistle.” Too $hort shares what it was like recording with The Notorious B.I.G., Tupac and JAY-Z (the only rapper to do so!), including watching Biggie work without writing down his verses…

AWICH and ONE OK ROCK frontman Taka join us to introduce YAO, the new Japanese supergroup bringing together AWICH, ONE OK ROCK, CHICO CARLITO and Paledusk. They explain how the collective came together, the Japanese philosophy behind its name, spending a month in Biarritz creating together and the story behind debut single “777.” Plus, working with RZA, JAY-Z and Linkin Park, and the differences between Japanese and American artists.AWICH opens up about growing up in Okinawa, writing poetry, becoming a rapper at 14, moving to America, motherhood and returning home after the death of her daughter’s father. Meanwhile, Taka reflects on growing up with two famous singers as parents, facing assumptions about his success, getting kicked out of J-pop group NEWS and eventually becoming the frontman of ONE OK ROCK. Plus, learning English, why Taka once planned to quit at 35, Ed Sheeran at the Sphere, Backstreet Boys, Vegas, and taking Japanese music global.SUBSCRIBE to Our Podcast…

The Warning join us in the studio for a second time to discuss their fifth album, Everything's Falling. Hailing from Monterrey, Mexico, sisters Daniela, Paulina and Alejandra Villarreal stop in fresh from Japan to talk about making the record, taking six months off the road to process the past five years, and what they've learned after 13 years together as a band. We also get into why they write in English, how Monterrey still comes through in their music, and the ways they've continued to get to know each other through the songs they make.Plus, we dig into the specific songs on the record, from catastrophic thoughts and industry tunnel vision to growing up in public and the double standards still being felt for women in rock. The sisters also discuss fear of dying, the influence of Sean Paul, which of them is the most opinionated and confrontational, getting back on the road, and so much more. Stream "Everything's Falling" ►►https://tinyurl.com/2xkebpxxThis episode is sponsored by AlexaPlus. Learn more at…

The legend that is Sara Bareilles joins us to talk about ‘Good Grief,’ her first album in seven years, and the new documentary of the same name. She opens up about navigating some incredibly difficult years, and the tenderness, humor and humility she’s found along the way. During that time, she’s said goodbye to several close friends while also embarking on IVF, and she’s open in her music — and in person — about the complicated emotions that can accompany the path to parenthood. The documentary captures the intimate recording of the album in Woodstock, NY, with her close collaborators, alongside incredibly candid conversations exploring many of the same themes. She also discusses the story behind the song “Home,” which was inspired by a podcast conversation between Anderson Cooper and Stephen Colbert about Colbert losing his father and two brothers when he was just 10 years old.Sara also looks back at the songs and projects that have shaped her career, from “Gravity” and “Brave” to “Love Song”; the origins…

Owen Thiele has stories for days. We could have kept him chin-wagging on the couch for another hour, but the actor, podcaster, and all around hilarious human stopped by primarily to talk about the hotly anticipated second season of ‘Adults,’ which, by the way, blows season 1 out of the water. We discuss the show in-depth, working with his now-bestie castmates and the arc of Anton’s story, not to mention the entrance of Raven Symone as his sister (and the cultural importance of ‘That’s So Raven.’ But then things get really good: there’s talk of peptides, SoulCyle sharting, his fascinating childhood and family history — from his adoption story, to his mom as his best bud, to his star-studded LA high school — and just what is going on with his in-development series ‘Off Color’ based on his real life. And of course we get into his podcast, ‘In Your Dreams’ (Alex Cooper made him do it), his long-term love with iconic stylist-to-the-stars Jared, staying friends with exes, going to NYU with Timothée Chalamet,…

Maia Reficco and Fernando Lindez join us to discuss their new Prime Video romance ‘The Last Sunrise,’ based on the novel by Anna Todd. Maia stars as Ry, a college student living with a chronic illness who heads to Mallorca with her protective mother, played by Eva Longoria, and unexpectedly falls for local Julián, played by Fernando. Maia comes to the film after starring in ‘Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin’ and making her mark on Broadway in ‘Hadestown,’ while Spanish actor and model Fernando brings a very different path to the couch — from being discovered in the background of a friend’s Instagram photo at 18 to opening a Versace show in Milan.They talk about their bad first impressions to building a genuine closeness while filming in Mallorca, intimacy coordination, the logistics of Fernando’s nude scene, (and his love of nude beaches!), and what it was like having Eva Longoria play Maia’s mom. They also unpack the film’s bigger ideas about romance, family, and how fleeting life can be.Plus, Maia talks…

At just 19 years old, Chino Pacas has already released three LPs: 'Que Sigan Llegando las Pacas' (2024), 'CRISTIAN' (2025), and now 'QSLLP V2' — a record inspired in part by John Wick. His music is yet another reason why corridos are going global and reaching new, younger audiences. He joins us on the couch for the first time to talk about his beginnings in Mexico, the essential influence of his brother Turo, moving to Florida, going viral on TikTok, and getting discovered and signed by JOP. Oh, and then there was that lil’ collab with Drake.Plus, he discusses collaborating with FLVCKKA, wanting to experiment with bachata and cumbia — and eventually record in English — how he wound up buying a fan a Louis Vuitton bag, why “gorditas is my thing,” and so much more.SUBSCRIBE to Our Podcast ►►https://tinyurl.com/48yfe4v5SUBSCRIBE to YT ►►https://tinyurl.com/5n8km55uFollow The Zach Sang…

After having Nick and Chris on the show over the years we finally bag Matt who has something he’s super proud to talk about: his memoir ‘What Happened Yesterday.’ The 23-year-old opens up about growing up as a triplet with Nick and Chris and the complicated process of figuring out who he is outside of his brothers after spending much of their lives having practically identical experiences. Plus, how the three have learned to create together while building increasingly independent lives.Primarily though, his memoir is a candid portrayal of his experiences living with debilitating anxiety, his mental health and medication journey, not to mention therapy. He discusses the loss of his grandad, family issues, panic attacks, and how writing has become an outlet and a boon. We also discuss the adrenaline rush of the Sturniolo Triplets’ rapid YouTube success, social media and public perception, and why he wants to talk openly about mental health while keeping some parts of his life — including his relationships —…

Harry Jowsey returns to discuss his new Netflix show ‘Let’s Marry Harry,’ where 20 women are competing for his heart as he searches for a wife with help from friends Amanda Kloots, Sony Henty, and his ex Georgia Hassarati. Alex Cooper also pops in with her two cents. The Aussie-born reality TV bad boy and heartthrob has become a reality TV regular (watch out for him on ‘The Mob’ this Fall) since his 2020 break out moment on 2020’s ‘Too Hot to Handle.’ He’s since expanded into podcasting (‘Boyfriend Material’), hosting, producing, and even acting (in a film with Al Pacino?! Yeah really!). Oh and he has his own skincare brand which he founded after several skin cancer scares. On this ep Harry opens up about losing his dad through assisted dying, continuing to navigate his grief, and how that experience reshaped the way he thinks about commitment, monogamy, and what he wants from a partner. He also talks about sobriety, his relationship with alcohol, his infamous dating history, and what it’s been like trying…

Omah Lay joins us two years after his last visit — an interview during which he experienced his first-ever earthquake! Nothing quite so eventful happened this time, but a lot has changed.Now 29, Omah Lay is back with his sophomore LP, ‘Clarity of Mind,’ an album he believes might just be the greatest Afrobeats album ever made.He opens up about the past two years and what it has taken to find greater peace and emotional freedom, including working on his mental health, letting go, navigating shifts in his identity and learning not to push love away. He talks about loneliness, narcissism, get into why he chopped off all his hair, and the fresh start it represented. Stream "Clarity of Mind" ►►https://tinyurl.com/4k98m62mThis episode is sponsored by AlexaPlus. Learn more at amazon.com/newalexaSUBSCRIBE to Our Podcast ►►https://tinyurl.com/48yfe4v5SUBSCRIBE to YT ►►https://tinyurl.com/5n8km55uFollow The Zach Sang…

FLO join us in the studio for the first time to discuss their latest album ‘Therapy at the Club’ and they are a hoot. We get straight into it: the sisterhood, the songwriting, the haters, and all the drama that goes down at the club (and the club loos - that’s British for bathroom, FYI). They even do a bit of a capella, because, of course, their seamless vocal blending is the bedrock of their sound. What’s fascinating about this trio, made up of Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma, and Renée Downer, even though they were put together by the industry bods, it seems like they’ve been friends forever, bonded by being raised like single mums, and a like-minded drive. And they don’t give a damn if having an opinion as women in music can sometimes be mistaken for being “difficult.”They also talk about their key collaborators — MNEK, Julian Bunetta, each other — Missy Elliott, Cynthia Erivo, stripping it back for Tiny Desk, getting paranoid on edibles, partying in Ibiza, and breaking down some of their hits including…

Noah LaLonde, aka Cole Walter joins us on the couch to discuss season three of ‘My Life with the Walter Boys,’ and boy, this season things get prettttty steamy. Of course we get into the evolution of Jackie and Cole’s relationship, and what’s ahead in Season 3 (ugh that ex of Jackie’s who shows up!), plus his nerve-racking chemistry test, conversations with the author behind the original Wattpad phenomenon, and why one breakup scene became one of the toughest scenes he’s ever filmed.For the 28-year-old Macomb, Michigan-born actor Walter Boys was his big break — the making of him — so we find out about his path to acting, spending two semesters studying law, winning a national hockey championship in 2013, and dealing with imposter syndrome. Plus, he opens up about his close-knit family, singing, the science behind the swooniness of his hair, his heartthrob status, dating rumors, and what he’s learned from Nikki Rodriguez (aka Jackie). This episode is sponsored by AlexaPlus. Learn more at…

Travie McCoy sits down with us for the first time ever — a rescheduled interview because just before he was supposed to come in, he legit broke his neck. So we find out what happened there, how he’s been recovering, and what’s up with the first new Gym Class Heroes music since 2011. It’s a song called “Universal Language” and an album is coming… but as for the rest of the band? You’ll just have to watch the interview and see. We also talk about some of his biggest hits from “Billionaire” with Bruno Mars to “Stereo Hearts” with Maroon 5; how Oprah and Diddy got nixed from lyrics, touring with Lil Wayne and T-Pain, depression, being a nostalgia junkie, keeping old love letters, breaking his neck and his lifelong mission to not be corny. He’s 45 now. How wild is that?Stream "Universal Language" ►►https://tinyurl.com/mv636xseThis episode is sponsored by AlexaPlus. Learn more at amazon.com/newalexaSUBSCRIBE to Our Podcast ►►https://tinyurl.com/48yfe4v5SUBSCRIBE to YT ►►https://tinyurl.com/5n8km55uFollow The Zach…

Mrs. GREEN APPLE join us for the first time ever to discuss entering Phase 3 of their career, writing “Brand New,” the Japanese theme song for 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day’. The trio — made up of Motoki Ohmori, Hiloto Wakai, and Ryoka Fujisawa — reflect on the journey from being friends in school to becoming one of the country's biggest bands, why they divide their career into distinct "phases," and the creative freedom that's driving this new era.We also dive into the deeply personal meaning behind “lulu,” Motoki Ohmori's role as the creative force behind their music, visuals and live shows, their process, and why (their incredible) fashion has become another language for expressing who they are. Along the way, we discuss the story behind “Inferno,” the theme tune for manga series ‘Fire Force,’ their ambitions beyond Japan, makeup on men, the story behind their name and so much more. "Brand New" ►►https://mrsgreenapple.com/news/detail/22835This episode is sponsored by AlexaPlus. Learn more at…

We're thrilled to finally welcome Rebecca Black to the studio. It's been 15 years since she became a global viral sensation at just 13 years old with "Friday"—a song that also made her what many have called "the internet's first punching bag." Since then, she's quietly built one of pop's most fascinating second acts: growing up in public, embracing her queer identity, becoming an acclaimed DJ (yes, we had to talk about that Boiler Room set), and steadily carving out her own lane as an artist. Now, at 29, she's here to discuss her bold sophomore album, 'The Age of the Exhibitionist.'So who exactly is the exhibitionist—Rebecca, or the rest of us? We explore the album's central themes, from authenticity versus performance to living in an era where everyone is constantly on display, and how DJing has transformed the way she writes and performs music. The artist Lady Gaga once called a "genius" also opens up about queer identity, playing "Hot Wet Delirious" for her girlfriend, the influence of dance music, and…

Jacob Batalon joins us to discuss reprising his role as Ned Leeds for a fourth time in 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day.' The Hawaii-born Filipino actor reflects on nearly a decade growing up alongside Tom Holland and Zendaya, the chemistry audition that changed his life, and why he wasn't even sure there would be a fourth Spider-Man film. It's hard to believe that landing one of the biggest franchises in cinema began with his very first proper audition. He also shares what he learned from Robert Downey Jr., Jon Favreau and Zendaya while growing up in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.Plus, Jacob opens up about starring in and executive producing 'Reginald the Vampire', being raised by immigrant parents, overcoming childhood bullying, the grounding influence of his fiancée Veronica, his obsession with Pokémon, and the story behind becoming the internet's "CEO of Sex." Along the way, we discuss breaking male friendship stereotypes, his love of manga, finding creative fulfillment, and why he's always trying to keep the…

XLOV join us in the studio for the first time ever! The stunning quartet — made up of Wumuti, Rui, Hyun, and Haru — who hail from China, Taiwan Korea, and Japan, respectively, are here to talk about their latest, fourth EP ‘I,God,’ but it’s also a getting to know you chat. We find out more about their origins, meeting initially on a Korean survival show, and how under Wumuti’s leadership they came together to truly test the boundaries of K-pop — in terms of both sonics, visuals, and gender representation. A collaborative approach shaped their identity.We also dig into their latest EP, ‘I,God,’ and discuss how the group's multinational lineup and Wumuti, Rui, Hyun, and Haru reflect on coming together from different countries, the creative freedom they have within the group, Wumuti's role on the A&R team, and how they build a song, concept, choreography, and music video from the ground up. Plus the Afrobeat influences on “1&Only,” their definition of rizz, discovering K-pop through BTS, Haru's dance…

Kylie joins us again, a year after the release of ‘Rise of Red,’ after her EP ‘B.O.Y.,’ and after the Zombies/Descedents tour. Now she’s back with the latest installment of Disney’s Descendents ‘Wicked Wonderland,’ and a new EP ‘Valley Girl Problems’ - a collection of wall-to-wall pop perfection with lyrics that are searingly vulnerable and evisceratingly on-point. As her private life imploded she poured everything into journals and with the help of Tayla Parx and Tricky Stewart she turned that heartbreak into songs that will resonate with anyone who’s been blindsided in life. She was processing in real time. And yes we do talk about ‘Wicked Wonderland’… could this be the end of Red for Kylie? Watch to find out. This episode is sponsored by AlexaPlus. Learn more at amazon.com/newalexaSUBSCRIBE to Our Podcast ►►https://tinyurl.com/48yfe4v5SUBSCRIBE to YT ►►https://tinyurl.com/5n8km55uFollow The Zach Sang…

Long Beach's own GIVĒON joins us on the couch for the first time to talk about the deluxe version of his album 'BELOVED II.' The Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter reflects on growing up on the east side of Long Beach, the first song he ever wrote, his Barry White-esqu baritone, working on Justin Bieber's “Peaches,” and collaborating with artists including Leon Thomas and Teddy Swims. (Turns out he was a Nickelodeon fan.)Of course we have to talk about his breakout hit “Heartbreak Anniversary,” but the conversation also hits on skincare, celebrating small wins, accosting SZA at the mall and singing to her. Plus wrestling, romance as an art form, learning from past relationships (and what he wants), why failure is often the first step toward success, and so much more. He’s actually so funny. Just the story about him and his brother’s name being pronounced incorrectly for their whole lives is worth the click! Stream "BELOVED: ACT II" ►►https://tinyurl.com/ta7td6vfThis episode is sponsored by AlexaPlus. Learn…

Twenty years after releasing his classic debut album 'In My Own Words,' Ne-Yo joins us to reflect on that record and the songs that changed his life while introducing his new album country-R&B album, 'Highway 79.' He looks back on his legendary collaborations with Swedish songwriting duo Stargate, the creation of “So Sick,” and the stories behind songs like “Closer” and “Miss Independent,” and all the hits he wrote for others like Rihanna’s “Take a Bow” (she was just a teen when they first met), and Beyoncé's “Irreplaceable” — a song he originally wrote for himself.Ne-Yo also opens up about why country music inspired his latest project, the changing definition of pop, and why he feels vulnerability has disappeared from modern R&B. Along the way, he shares memories of writing for Rihanna and Michael Jackson, explains why the singer always matters as much as the song itself, writing in Nashville, being a dad to seven kids, playing the Grand Ole Opry and so much more. What’s the inspo behind newie ‘Ms. Tundra’?…

Always a joy to have Olivia O’Brien back on the pod — this time to discuss her latest album ‘Pixie’ (it’s her haircut, but listen, she definitely was big into fairies back in the day). It’s been a decade since her breakout hit 'i hate u, i love u' with gnash introduced her to the world, and Olivia is embracing a new era — teaming up with Day Wave aka Jackson Phillips — to create a record that’s indie-pop leaning and as brutally honest as ever. The long purple hair is gone, she’s over her previous attraction to “internet boys,” and her songs showcase her perspective on love, identity, and growing up in the spotlight from this 26-year-old vantage point.So of course we get into it: the manic pixie dream girl trope, her haircut, and how autobiographical the album really is. She also reflects on 10 years of her breakout song, the disconnect between public perception and reality, being cheated on, dating apps, supporting Benson Boone, the pressure to chase perfection, oversharing and the internet, living with OCD,…

FYI spoilers are in this episode!After breaking out as Mary Anne Spier in Netflix's 'The Baby-Sitters Club,' Malia Baker has become one of Disney's brightest young stars as Chloe Charming in the 'Descendants' franchise. Joining us on the couch for the first time, Malia chats all about 'Descendants: Wicked Wonderland,' where Chloe and Red must deal with the consequences of changing the past alongside a new generation of heroes and villains.The Botswana-born, Vancouver-raised actress discusses filming her solo musical number, whether she'd change the past if she could time travel, and the film's themes of friendship, loyalty, and why not every villain is truly a villain. She also opens up about her Disney audition journey, what she learned from working with Brandy, why she intentionally keeps her distance from social media, her activism, and executive producing as well as starring in 'Hair of the Bear,' which was co-directed by Alexandre Trudeau, the son of former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, plus…

One of the biggest voices in modern Bollywood, Vishal Mishra has built an extraordinary career as a singer, songwriter, composer, and playback singer. Best known for songs like "Kaise Hua," "Pehle Bhi Main," "Aaj Bhi," and "Jaate Hue Lamho," his music has become a staple of contemporary Indian cinema, finding audiences around the world. Now, after years of success writing for film, he's released his long-awaited debut studio album, 'Pagalpan.'Vishal joins us to discuss the years-long process creating this record — he wrote over 170 songs for the album — and reflects on being ridiculed after his ‘Indian Idol’ audition (and other rejections, studying law before committing fully to music, landing his first big break, and writing songs at lightning speed for Bollywood. Currently touring North America, he explains his process, gives us insight into the Indian film industry, plus so much more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…

This inimitable, hilarious, and quip-tastic D’arcy Carden joins us on the couch for the first time to discuss her new ensemble show ‘Five Star Weekend,’ where she plays an over-eager pal with zero social awareness alongside stellar cast including Jennifer Garner, Chloe Sevigny, Regina Hall, and Gemma Chan, to name a few! But we also had to get into her iconic other roles, specifically Janet from ‘The Good Place,’ her early years juggling improv at Upright Citizens Brigade, and popping into numerous eps of ‘Broad City’ thanks to her fellow UCB crew Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson. Oh and nannying for none other than Bill Hader who she ultimately wound up on screen with ‘Barry’ alongside Henry Winkler. Phew. We also discuss her adoration of Maya Rudolph (another co-star), her cool as hell upbringing in the Bay Area, her love of Pearl Jam, her cry prep playlist, her appearances on ‘Wheel of Fortune’ and ‘Jeopardy,’ plus her special bond with Lenny Kravitz and just what The Smashing Pumpkins had to do with her…

Thirteen years since the end of ‘Victorious’ and its spin-off is now imminent: ‘Hollywood Arts,’ starring Daniella Monet reprising her role as Trina (and exec producing). Crazy. Crazier still that Monet — who came up with Zach — has never been on the show. So this interview is really more like a catch up with old friends as they reflect on the next chapter of one of Nickelodeon's most beloved franchises. Together they look back at the original show's legacy, where we left Trina, how the show came together, and what fans can expect as the story picks up — with a few familiar faces set to return.Beyond ‘HA’ Daniella opens up about balancing acting with raising two children, why Hallmark movies have become such a great fit for this stage of her life, and the changing entertainment landscape since she first dreamed of landing a Nickelodeon show. Other topics discussed: the ‘Victorious’ cast group chat, Trina's evolution, Daniella's audition for ‘Hannah Montana’ and ‘Chicago’ (she busts out some bars), an…

Best known to many through her hilarious TikToks which often rope in her Oscar-winning legend of a Martin Scorsese, 26-year-old Francesca is also carving out a career as an actor/director/writer in her own right and she joins us fresh off the announcement that she’s been cast in Season 2 of Amazon's 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith.' We talk about growing up on legendary film sets, why acting scares her more than directing, and how the two disciplines inform one another. Francesca also opens up about hyperfixation, anxiety, becoming a caregiver after her mother was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's, the heartbreak of grieving someone who is still alive (the experiences of which informed her short film ‘Fish Out of Water’), navigating "nepo baby" discourse, and responding to TikTok haters. We also chat about the script she's currently writing, crushing on Asa Butterfield during 'Hugo,' her blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment in the One Direction doc, what she thinks about Harry Styles and Zoe Kravitz, Saint Carlo Acutis,…

All hail Zooey Deschanel! The indie-quirk queen! And yes we discuss her relationship to the word quirky! The actor will always be Jess from ‘New Girl’ and Summer from ‘500 Days of Summer’ and that adorable older sister stewardess in ‘Almost Famous,’ and we talk about all this — so many iconic roles — plus the lore of her blonde hair in ‘Elf.’But the craziest thing that’s happened to Zooey in the past year? The TikTok-enabled resurgence of a She & Him song she wrote 25 years ago. In fact, it’s one of the first songs she ever wrote. So yes, we chat about “I Thought I Saw Your Face Today” too, new music, and their upcoming tour this Fall.We also discuss what it’s like renovating a house with her Property Brother fiancé Jonathan Scott, when her kids will watchher work, karaoke, that first kiss scene in ‘New Girl’ (there’s a lot of ‘New Girl’ in this interview: the rhythm of comedy, specific eps, being preg twice during shooting, and so much more), and how Zooey’s never laid eyes on drugs apart from weed. :) This…

Before stepping into the world of Elle Woods, Chandler Kinney had already built an impressive career across Disney, horror, action, and reality TV. From playing fan-favorite werewolf Willa in Disney's 'Zombies' franchise to the horror movie obsessed Tabby Haworthe in 'Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin,' and making history as part of the first all-Black partnership to reach the 'Dancing with the Stars' finale, Chandler has become one of Hollywood's most versatile young stars. Now she's taking on the role of the flannel-wearing Kimberly in Prime Video's highly anticipated 'Legally Blonde' prequel series, 'Elle.'The self-described “recovering perfectionist” joins us in the studio to talk about landing 'Elle' and her character Kimberly who is anything but nice to the blonde bubbly LA transplant. Set in the 90s, if you like ‘Clueless’ you’ll like ‘Elle,’ and it’s already been renewed for a second season. We also talk ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ her love for Willa, playing a queer character in a live action Disney…

MICO joins us in the studio for the first time to unpack ‘When the lights turn on,' the Filipino-Canadian artist's debut album, his biggest creative swing and his most personal project to date. The Toronto-born singer-songwriter first broke through with his 2022 indie-pop hit "cut my hair," which became a top 20 radio hit in Canada, with songs like "I'd Hate to Be My Friend" and "HOMESICK" catching fire on TikTok. The 23-year-old discusses coming up on Discord and Twitch, plus he opens up about making a breakup record in real time, the disconnect between online perception and reality ("Dreamboy"), and what happens when you get into a situationship with your bestie ("Favorite Flowers"). We also dive into serial monogamy versus hookup culture, the influence of bands like All Time Low, Panic! At The Disco, 5 Seconds of Summer, Why Don't We, and Waterparks, and why the blunt honesty of 2000s songwriting still inspires him. And he finally puts to rest one of the internet's biggest questions: did he actually…

We’re insanely excited to have 20-year-old London chanteuse Sienna Spiro on the couch. In the past year her career has gone stratospheric thanks to her retro-tinged ballads, instantly chic 60s styling, and her husky powerhouse vocals. If you like Adele, you’ll be falling for Sienna. Touting her debut album ‘Visitor’ we get into all the stories behind the songs from the depression (“Pure”), to the relationship with an older man ("Great Expectations" and "He's Not My Baby, I'm His”), to the recurring themes of impermanence and time (“Mono No Aware”). We also discuss her mother's brain tumour diagnosis, emotional numbness, taking inspiration from Roberta Flack and Dusty Springfield, working with Omer Fedi, songwriting "speed dating," how she went from a puffer jackets to a slick bouffant beehives, and the importance — and struggle — to stay present. With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. Try Apple Creator Studio free at https://www.apple.com/apple-creator-studio/This episode is sponsored by…

Joining us in the studio for the very first time, Grupo Frontera are one of the biggest acts in música mexicana. Three albums into their career, the McAllen, Texas six-piece—Adelaido Solís III (vocals), Juan Javier Cantú (accordion), Alberto "Beto" Acosta (bajo quinto), Carlos Guerrero (drums), Julián Peña Jr. (bass), and Carlos Zamora (keyboards)—have helped bring cumbia norteña to a global audience. Shaped by their Mexican-American upbringing, they've amassed billions of streams and scored worldwide hits including "No Se Va," "un x100to" with Bad Bunny, and "Coqueta." They join us to talk about their new EP, ‘Con Dolor.’We talk about their unlikely beginnings as a wedding and quinceañera band, growing up in a border town, modernizing regional Mexican music while staying true to its roots, going independent, and how ‘Con Dolor’ fits into their discography. They also share stories about recording live together, collaborating with Bad Bunny, Shakira, and Maluma, "Coqueta" becoming a global smash after…

ATEEZ leader, producer, and creative force Hongjoong returns to the studio for a conversation about the journey that's taken him from sending in a demo and training alone for six months to leading one of K-pop's biggest groups. With nearly 200 songwriting credits across ATEEZ's first eight years, the 27-year-old reflects on how he first fell in love with making music, his songwriting process, the responsibility that comes with being the group's captain, and the difference between being an artist and an idol.We also dive into ATEEZ's latest era — ‘Golden Hour Part 4 dropped in Feb and it seems like Part 5 is on the way. Plus the story behind "Lemon Drop" and "NO1," and his album of reinterpretations celebrating the artists who inspired him. Along the way, Hongjoong talks about his love of Los Angeles, what keeps him inspired after eight years, and why ATEEZ's enduring motto remains: Break the Wall.With Apple Creator Studio, it’s all yours for the making. Try Apple Creator Studio free at…

Joe Santagato. He's a regular-degular Italian-American born in Queens who has, along with his childhood bestie Frank Alvarez, become the internet's favorite hang. He joins us on the couch for the first time to chart his career from YT and Vine virality to being "the least famous person" to sell out MSG; building his podcasting empire with his buds, to becoming People Magazine's Sexiest Podcaster of 2025. Whatta category!The comedian, podcaster, and entrepreneur opens up about the anxiety leading up to ticket sales, proposing to his fiancée with a mouth so dry he could barely speak, playing the Garden hungover, and why therapy has shifted his focus from chasing outcomes to caring about the work itself. Plus Joe talks about fans turning clips into an entire content ecosystem, navigating parasocial relationships, and the thinking behind his new charity The Happy Cry Fund and the thinking behind it. He's about to head out on tour again too and for every live show ticket sold a dollar goes to his charity. to help…

More than half a century after changing the sound of popular music, Earth, Wind & Fire are still bringing people together. Formed by the late Maurice White in 1969, the band fused soul, funk, R&B, jazz, rock, gospel, and African influences into a style that produced timeless classics like "September," "Shining Star," "Let's Groove," and "Reasons." Even today, "September" continues to find new generations of fans thanks to TikTok, memes, movies, weddings, and the annual internet celebration of the 21st night of September. Now, surviving members Philip Bailey, Verdine White, and Ralph Johnson join us to discuss Questlove's documentary Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial vs That's the Weight of the World), reflecting on the life and vision of Maurice White, who passed away in 2016 but remains the band's guiding spirit.The trio look back on growing up together, learning their craft by playing covers, the three stages of creativity, and how songs like "Shining Star" went on to inspire artists including Stevie…

Lesbian Jesus returns! Last year Hayley Kiyoko popped in to discuss her sophomore book, ‘Where There’s Room For Us,’ and she promised she’d return to discuss her debut feature length film ‘Girls Like Girls’ which started its life as a song (back in 2015), became a groundbreaking music video, evolved into a New York Times bestselling novel, and has now arrived on the big screen. Hayley opens up about why this story has become her life's work, the emotional journey of bringing it to theaters, and how scenes from the film were pulled directly from her own experiences. We also dive into the healing power of representation, fan reactions from fans, and why telling authentic LGBTQ+ stories feels as important as ever.Hayley also discusses assembling the film's all-female department heads, casting the film’s leads Maya Da Costa as Coley and Myra Malloy as Sonya, working alongside Zach Braff, and creating a soundtrack packed with artists including Young Miko, Tegan and Sara, and Gigi Perez. Plus: AIM screen names,…