The Bright Side (iHeartPodcasts and Hello Sunshine)

This episode originally aired on Sept. 23, 2024. Veteran journalist Connie Chung originally wanted to tell her story through stand-up, but her husband — veteran daytime talk host Maury Povich — convinced her to write a memoir. We’re still hoping for that stand-up, Connie! In her memoir “Connie,” she describes her career as an Asian American woman in a white male-centered industry, and provides a behind-the-scenes look at some of her career-defining reporting. Connie joins the Bright Side to discuss her new memoir and why everyone needs a mentor or a Maury.

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Does the prospect of going into business with your bestie make you sweat or squeal with delight? We talk with two friends and co-founders who quit their day jobs to start an organic period care company together. Their story is featured in the new Roku docuseries “Side Hustlers,” from Hello Sunshine. Plus, our thoughts on Beyoncé’s new album, now that we’ve had a few days to process. What’s your favorite track? We want to hear from you! You can reach the show at: hello@thebrightside.com. 

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Tika Sumpter has done it all, and she joins the show to share about her journey as a mother, actress, and creator. She dishes on the deep conversations she had with Jim Carrey on the set of the “Sonic” films, and creating content focused on emotional intelligence for kids with her podcast “Adventures of Curiosity Cove” and her book “I Got It From My Mama.” Plus, she discusses the importance of emotional repair in relationships, and how her creative projects spark meaningful conversations with her daughter.

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After starting her path there as an intern in 2001, Ali Goldstein is now the president of L'Oreal Paris USA, one of the world’s most recognizable brands. She joins the show to dig into the surprising origin and powerful legacy of the iconic tagline “Because I’m Worth It,” and its enduring impact on women's empowerment. She also touches on L'Oreal’s Women of Worth program, which honors extraordinary women making a difference in their communities. Plus, join Simone and Danielle in celebrating the new class of the Hello Sunshine Collective, and their exciting journey ahead!

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We chronically undervalue the invisible domestic tasks that women disproportionately own. Eve Rodsky took this imbalance head on by authoring “Fair Play” and creating the corresponding card deck. She shares how we often view women’s time like sand, and men’s like diamonds. Plus, she reveals insights from her latest research — relevant whether you're a parent, a partner, or just interested in playing a little bit more fair.

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The iconic “Beverly Hills: 90210” star explains her empowering mantra of "I choose me," and dives into her journey through marriage, divorce, motherhood, and self-discovery. Jennie shares her insights on aging, the pressure of societal expectations, and the importance of self-love. Plus, the complicated choice of the nuptial name change.

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Reese Witherspoon joins the first episode of The Bright Side to talk about second acts and new beginnings. She talks with the hosts about founding her company, what she’s learned about entrepreneurship, and how she stays positive when shit is hitting the fan. Plus, hosts Danielle Robay and Simone Boyce talk about the state of happiness.

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We have the power to contact our besties with the tap of a finger, yet we live in a loneliness epidemic. Journalist and author Anna Goldfarb wants to know: why? And what can we do about it? In today’s installment of our friendship advice segment “Asking for a Friend,” Anna delves into the research behind her book “Modern Friendship.” Anna’s findings reveal the importance of infusing your friendships with a shared sense of purpose, the optimal number of friends, and just how many hours it takes to form what she calls a “wholehearted friendship.”

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We’re kicking off Valentine’s Day week with a thought-provoking conversation with Meghan Keane, author of “Party of One: Be Your Own Best Life Partner.” Meghan challenges conventional ideas about love, relationships, and marriage, encouraging listeners to embrace self-love and redefine what it means to be in a relationship. She shares her personal journey of stepping out of the "haze" of societal pressure, finding validation within, and discovering the power of the relationship with ourselves — coupled or not. 

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When she first made the move from New York City to a farm in Minnesota, Molly Yeh embarked on a whole new life. She is the host of the Food Network’s series Girl Meets Farm and a New York Times bestselling cookbook author. Her new book, Sweet Farm!, is out next year. She came on the show to talk about fall cooking ahead of the holidays, how her training as a classical percussionist informs her work as a cook, and what it’s like to make a life on a farm.

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Sabrina Zohar is here to tell it like it is. The dating coach and host of the “Do The Work” podcast takes a no-nonsense approach to dating red flags, green flags, and everything in between. Plus, Danielle shares an embarrassing story and Simone schools us on which celebrities names we have been mispronouncing all along. 

We want to hear from you! You can reach the show at: hello@thebrightside.com.

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Chelsea Devantez is a TV writer, the author of the new memoir “I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This,” and the host of the podcast “Glorious Trash.” She joins Simone and Danielle to dive into the juiciest pop culture moments of the week, from dissecting the latest Bennifer gossip, to questioning Ed Sheeran's alleged phone-free lifestyle. They also explore Rihanna's potential return to the studio, and the exciting news about a Broadway musical based on Dolly Parton's life. 

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For Alexandra Hayes Robinson — AKA Hello Hayes — the journey to becoming an advice columnist started when she realized that she was a person with very big feelings. Now, with hundreds of thousands of followers across social media platforms, she uses that introspection to answer questions all about friendships, confidence, and so much more. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss active listening and couples who sleep in separate bedrooms.

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We’re back with another segment of “Mom Friend,”a judgment-free zone to explore the often-overwhelming work of parenting. Today, we’re talking back to school – and specifically how parents are navigating that transition. Abby Schiller, founder of The Mother Company and life coach, joins the Bright Side to offer ways for parents to cope with change and at the same time, empower their children to be independent. Have a parenting question? Send an email or voice memo to hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com. 

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Eve made her mark in the rap scene in the late ’90s as the first lady of Ruff Ryders. And over the past decades, she’s had platinum albums, hit singles, and a Grammy Award. She was also one of the first female rappers to have a sitcom, launch a clothing line and co-host the daytime talk show, “The Talk.” Eve joins the Bright Side to share how she’s navigating life in London with a blended family and she’s spilling all the details in her new memoir, “Who’s That Girl?”

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Would you let AI win your arguments for you, a TikTok filter guide your makeup game, or the internet influence your “winter arc”? To dive into these questions and more, we’re joined by Jill Dunn and Carlene Higgins, the dynamic duo behind the popular beauty podcast “Breaking Beauty.” They also pop off on the latest beauty trends, and give expert recommendations for splurges, drugstore gems, and holiday gifts. 

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Actor and activist Jameela Jamil has advocated around body image, diet culture, mental health, and more. Her newest cause: getting people exercising in the most inclusive way possible. The I Weigh founder wants to remove the self-consciousness that many women associate with exercise spaces — and she wants them to feel safe doing it. To that end, she’ll be speaking at “Move For Your Mind” in New York, New York on Monday, May 20th. Plus, this National Graduation Tassel Day, Danielle and Simone give their younger selves some advice.

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Did you grow up in a snack house, or an ingredient house? It's Feel Good Friday! Danielle and Simone are joined by showrunner Tim Palazzola for a good-vibes, laughter-filled episode. They dive into inspiring stories from the New York Marathon, the tale of a woman who found love at Home Depot with the help of some "questionable" advice, and the power of trusting your intuition. Plus, Tim shares what a showrunner actually does!

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The outrageously funny Michelle Buteau is the co-creator of Netflix’s “Survival of the Thickest,” and she just became the first woman to record a comedy special at Radio City Music Hall. Michelle opens up about her journey to self-discovery, the importance of betting on yourself, and how motherhood has reshaped her perspective. She also shares the humor that runs through her multicultural upbringing and the power of embracing authenticity at every stage of life. Her new special, “Michelle Buteau: A Buteau-ful Mind at Radio City Music Hall,” is out on Netflix on New Year’s Eve. 

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Nora McInerny is an author and the host of the podcast “Terrible, Thanks for Asking.” She joins Danielle and Simone for a lively discussion about ephemeral tattoos and women naming their kids after themselves. Then, they dive into a deeper conversation about life after grief, our shared joys, and our shared joys. Would you name your daughter after yourself? Send an email to hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com and let us know!

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For flirting coach Benjamin Camras, flirting isn’t just about being charming and extroverted — it’s about genuine, thoughtful connection. Online or IRL, romantic or platonic, he lays out how to unleash your inner flirt and cultivate meaningful connections in any situation. So whether you're single and ready to mingle or happily coupled up, he has some advice for you. 

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Showrunner Tim Palazzola joins in to get into the biggest stories this Super Bowl Weekend — including Kendrick halftime show predictions, and some of the most iconic ads from Super Bowl history. Then, in honor of Valentine’s Day, would you get a tattoo in honor of a romantic partner? Plus, what are the official rules of what can and can’t go on your bed — and how often should you ACTUALLY  be changing your sheets? Tune in for all this, as well as a surprising tattoo reveal!

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Neha Ruch founded Mother Untitled as a community for mothers rethinking their relationship to work. The goal: to give clarity and confidence to women who are considering a career pause or downshift, and to shift the perception of what it means to be a stay-at-home parent. Plus, Danielle and Simone get into the phrases that successful women use at work. Do you use any of these phrases at work? Maybe you have your own? Let us know at Hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com

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Did you know perfectionism isn’t necessarily a bad thing? Katherine Morgan Schafler, psychotherapist and author of the book “The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control,” doesn’t want you to see perfectionism as a flaw, rather – a superpower. On this week’s Wellness Wednesday, Katherine shares advice on how to harness that power of perfectionism and use it to our advantage. 

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On this special 4th of July episode, we celebrate American women who shaped history. Mattie Kahn, author of "Young and Restless: The Girls Who Sparked America's Revolutions," shares stories that are often overlooked in history books. She highlights how Mabel Ping-Hua Lee, Claudette Colvin, the teens who helped in the Revolutionary War, and more defied expectations and fought for change. Mattie also discusses Mary Beth Tinker's landmark Supreme Court case and its enduring impact on student rights.

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Jamie Kern Lima founded IT Cosmetics, and followed the little voice inside to go from self-doubt to building a billion-dollar beauty brand. From childhood dreams sparked by Oprah to battling no after no, Jamie shares how she turned rejection into resilience, trusting her intuition against all odds. She shares practical tips on building self-worth and navigating life's challenges with courage and authenticity. Plus, the Reese’s Book Club pick for July is “The Cliffs” by J. Courtney Sullivan. She’ll be on the show later this month, so send your questions to hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com and she may answer them on the show!

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As a former matchmaker turned dating coach, the founder of Date Brazen, and the author of Thank You, More Please: A Feminist Guide to Breaking Dumb Dating Rules and Finding Love, Lily Womble has done her homework in the trenches of relationships. She came on the show to talk about dating fatigue, how to be bolder in asking for what you want, and asking tough questions as a way of building intimacy.

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Sometimes the barrier to entry with investing comes down to vocabulary: What’s an ETF? A bond? A stock? Simran Kaur is here to get you started if you have never invested before. She is an entrepreneur and founder of the platform Girls That Invest.  She brings concise, clear, and actionable advice on where to start if you’re new to investing, and debunks some of the “common knowledge” many women have been fed about their abilities to manage and invest money.

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Did you have a mentor who made a difference in your life? Did you wish you did? January is National Mentoring Month. Danielle and Simone are joined by Delores Druilhet Morton, the CEO of the mentorship nonprofit Step Up, to share the power of mentorships, how mentors show up differently in our lives, and the importance of vulnerability.

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Today, we bid farewell to an archetype that defined millennial hustle culture: the #girlboss. Danielle and Simone give heartfelt eulogies, and are joined by cultural critic Leigh Stein to understand the girlboss rise and fall. Leigh helps make sense of why it’s time to let her go, and where we go from here. Plus, we dive into AI therapy (yes, it’s real), the new Bridget Jones movie, and the paradigm-shifting viewership of the women’s NCAA Finals. Send in your #girlboss condolences: hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com. 

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Happy Labor Day! We’re celebrating the unsung women of the labor movement with Jenny Kaplan – CEO and co-founder of Wonder Media Network and the host of the “Womanica” podcast. Jenny shares the herstories of the first woman appointed to the U.S. Cabinet, equal pay activists, a labor activist focused on gender and race in the workplace, and a politician engaged in women’s and workers’ issues while she was in Congress.

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On this week’s “Wellness Wednesday,” we’re looking at the fostering a healthy relationship with money. Lindsay Bryan-Podvin is a financial therapist, the founder of Mind Money Balance, and the author of “The Financial Anxiety Solution.” She breaks down our emotional connection to money, the importance of understanding one's early money messages, and overcoming negative money beliefs. 

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Rebecca Lowe is one of the world’s leading soccer sportscasters, having spent over 20 years covering the sport on both sides of the Atlantic for outlets including the BBC, ESPN, and currently at NBC, now in her sixth consecutive NBC Olympics Daytime Host assignment. In the run up to Paris, Rebecca joins us with an insider’s take on not one but many different athletes’ roads to the Olympics. Rebecca gives us a sneak peek of what’s to come at this year’s games. We’ll get up to speed on fresh faces to look out for like 16-year-old gymnast Hezly Rivera and hurdler Masai Russell, the triumphant return of Sha’Carri Richardson, Simone Biles’ unexpected rival, and more. 

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Do you remember the first time you saw yourself truly represented on the screen? Today on the Bright Side, we’re talking with Madeline Di Nonno – the president and CEO of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media – to unpack some of the mind-blowing studies the institute has done about women’s representation in TV and film and the possibility that we discover when we challenge long-held stereotypes.

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What’s a “dolphin shower?? Are voice notes replacing voicemails? And is love truly blind? To answer these questions and more, Danielle and Simone are joined by comedian and content creator Rachel Samples. Plus, they also pop off on the greatest T.V. performances of the 21st century… and what to expect in the new season of “The White Lotus.”

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Emma Grede and Ashley Graham are no strangers to starting a business. Emma is the CEO and co-founder of Good American with Khloe Kardashian and a founding partner of Skims with Kim Kardashian. Ashley is a world renowned model, body positivity advocate, and entrepreneur. Together they host Hello Sunshine’s docu-series “Side Hustlers,” where they both invest their own money and offer guidance and mentorship to help shape successful women-led ventures. Emma and Ashley join The Bright Side to share the importance of investing in women’s business ideas.

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This episode originally aired on Dec. 2, 2024. How do you throw a great holiday party? Do you pick a theme? Keep the invite list short, or invite everyone you know? What makes a good tradition? Lizzy Mathis is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Cool Mom Co., and co-host and executive producer of “Honest Renovations,” Roku’s home improvement series. She joins the show today to talk about hosting holiday parties, entertaining tricks, and more!

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The holidays are coming fast. Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin of “The Home Edit” share tips for staying organized through the whirlwind that is the holiday season. Plus, they give a sneak peek into ABC’s reboot of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” which will feature Clea and Joanna!

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As the co-creator and star of “Broad City”, Ilana Glazer spent her twenties perfecting the relatable buddy comedy about trying to "make it" in New York. Ilana’s new movie “Babes” also draws from her own experience, this time of becoming a mom in her early thirties, to portray the messy, hilarious, and poignant reality of motherhood and how it can test even our most cherished lifelong friendships. She spoke with us about what pleasure looks like in her thirties, why she hates it when people call pregnancy “gross” and how she’s learned to manage her nerves. 

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Claudia and Jackie Oshry are sisters and co-hosts of the pop culture podcast “The Toast.” They join Danielle and Simone to pop off about PDA, repurposing your wedding ring, and unwanted exes coming back into your life. 

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Danielle and Simone dive into this week’s hottest pop culture stories with Emmy-nominated TV host and fashion designer Nina Parker. They get into Kim Kardashian's contract for her son’s YouTube channel, the latest on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship, and the buzz on “Who TF Did I Marry” — the viral TikTok series from earlier this year now set to become a real-life TV show.

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Diosa Femme is a writer, producer, and the co-founder of “Locatora Radio,” a platform dedicated to spotlighting untold stories and shifting cultural narratives. She joins Simone and Danielle to dissect the latest pop culture moments, like the remake of “La Bamba,” whether it’s time for Brat Summer to be over, and Naomi Osaka's bold tennis look.

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Has anyone ever called you too emotional? Or too shy? Too ambitious? Or too inquisitive? Your biggest weakness could actually be one of your greatest strengths and there are stats to back that up. Julia Boorstin is a CNBC senior media and tech correspondent and author of “When Women Lead” – which reveals the odds-defying leadership approaches of women running the world's most innovative and successful companies. Julia joins the Bright Side to discuss what happens when women lead and why we are actually the leaders we’ve been looking for. 

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After journalist and best-selling author Elaine Welteroth gave birth to her son, she became interested in learning more about the maternal health crisis in America.  It inspired her to found birthFUND, a coalition that financially supports mothers who want to use midwives. Plus, Danielle and Simone react to the news that Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie are reportedly reuniting for a new reality TV show. 

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The word “iconic” gets thrown around a lot these days. But with two Olympic medals, five World Championships, and nine US Championships, figure skater Michelle Kwan is nothing if not iconic. And after representing the US on the world stage in the ice rink, she has moved on to an incredibly fitting second act: she’s the US Ambassador to Belize. Ambassador Kwan talks about her Second Act, and the lessons she learned in her storied figure skating career.

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It’s Election Day! As we celebrate the power of making our voices heard at the ballot box, Danielle and Simone are joined by acclaimed historian Dr. Martha S. Jones to discuss the courageous women who fought to make women’s right to vote a reality and to honor the unsung heroes who have carried that torch into the present day. Dr. Jones is a professor of history at Johns Hopkins University and the author of “Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All.”

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Danielle and Simone sit down with L’Oréal Women of Worth honoree Dr. Ni’Cola Mitchell, award-winning entrepreneur and founder of Girls Who Brunch Tour. Dr. Mitchell shares her inspiring journey of turning personal pain into purpose, through her nonprofit organization which empowers young women — especially those from vulnerable backgrounds. From advocating for financial literacy to offering mentorship to girls who've survived traumatic experiences, Dr. Mitchell reveals how exposing young girls to new opportunities helps them discover their superpowers. 

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Etiquette advisor and finishing school alum Myka Meier joins us to de-mystify the holidays, from choosing a host gift with the maximum "wow factor" to creating the ultimate sensory experience at your holiday gathering. Myka brings her warm, approachable advice to winter socializing and reminds us of the power of a homemade brownie. 

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As a middle-aged mother of three from Tennessee, Leanne Morgan breaks all the stereotypes of what it takes to succeed in comedy. Yet, after two decades of homing her distinct style of "clean comedy," Leanne's down-to-earth, relatable humor has catapulted her into the spotlight, with the help of a viral video and support from stars like Reese Witherspoon. 

Today on the show the "Mrs. Maisel of Appalachia" shares her unlikely journey from growing up in a farming family to selling out the Grand Ole Opry, how she never gave up on her Hollywood dream, and why her audience hasn't feel "seen" until now. 

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Raven-Symoné is back — this time with her wife and co-host on “Tea Time with Raven and Miranda,” Miranda Maday. They give their verdict on a Reddit AITA that involves roommate pettiness and hair products, we learn about cancel culture insurance (and whether Raven would buy it), and we ask for the celeb tea. Plus, Danielle suggests it's time that we, as a society, bring decorum back.

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Malika Andrews is the host of ESPN’s “NBA Today” and “NBA Countdown.” She joins Simone and Danielle to celebrate WNBA All-Star Weekend and to discuss Serena Williams standing in her power. They also pop off about this year’s Emmy nominations (how is “The Bear” a comedy?), and honor the legacies of three greats we lost recently — Shannen Doherty, Richard Simmons, and Dr. Ruth Westheimer. 

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Bozoma Saint John is an author, entrepreneur and marketing executive who’s represented some of America’s most recognizable brands. Now, she’s starting a new chapter as the newest member of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” She dishes about her decision to join the franchise, her incredible career, and why trusting your intuition is the key to success.

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Actor, producer, and first female 007 Lashana Lynch joins to talk spies, creative vision, and more! In her new show, “The Day of the Jackal,” she stars and produces alongside Eddie Redmayne. She shares what it was like to be a first-time producer, the transferable skills she’s learned from playing a spy, and what role she’s itching to take on next. 

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Dive deep with us into the spookiest dating trend of all: GHOSTING! Dating coach and host of “The Sabrina Zohar Show” Sabrina Zohar returns to the show to unpack why people ghost and how to better deal with this modern disappearing act. As we dig into emotional availability and communication styles, Sabrina helps us navigate the confusion that comes with being left on read. 

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At age 94, June Squibb is starring in her first leading role in this summer’s geri-action comedy film, “Thelma.” She plays a mischievous woman who gets scammed and goes on a mission to reclaim the thousands of dollars that as stolen from her by someone pretending to be her grandson. June joins The Bright Side to chat about her decades-long career, finding balance between love and craft, and how it never occurred to her to give up.

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2024 has been a phenomenal year for women in sports. With the record-breaking viewership of the women's March Madness finals, women's athletics have finally gotten the media coverage they deserve. However, recent research shows that by the time girls hit 14 years old, they are twice as likely to quit playing sports than boys. Christine Yu, award-winning journalist and author of “Up to Speed: The Groundbreaking Science of Women Athletes” joins us on the show to unpack why this is happening and what we can all do to help the girls in our lives learn that a good body is a strong body. Plus, Danielle and Simone chat about wearing perfume to bed, acts of microfeminism, and men's emotional wellness retreats. What are your small acts of feminism? Email us your answers at hello@thebrightside.com. 

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Pop culture anthropologist and internet personality Blakeley Thornton joins the show to give an all-access pass to the “Wicked” movie premiere! He, Danielle, and Simone dive into the star-studded fashion, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's emotional bond, and the profound impact the film is having on audiences. They debate this year's Sexiest Man Alive from "People," (John Krasinski…?) and call out some alternatives. Plus, they ask the age-old question: Is it ever a good idea to get back with your ex? 

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Happy Holidays! Our showrunner Tim Palazzola joins the show with a game of Secret Celebrity Holiday Traditions. We look back at a year of interviews, and quiz the hosts on who loves mulled cider, who looks forward to Christmas cookies, whose kids get double the presents, and more!

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Comedian Rachel Samples joins the show for this week’s Poppin’ Off. Rachel, Danielle and Simone talk about their excitement for “Wicked Day” and Diane Keaton’s new Holiday song. Plus, they get into Issa Rae’s recent hot take on whether or not men can hold a decent conversation– featuring a fun weigh in from The Bright Side’s own, Tim Palazzola.

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Welcome to The Bright Side, a new daily podcast from Hello Sunshine. Every morning, hosts Danielle Robay and Simone Boyce are bringing your daily dose of inspiring stories, trending topics in pop culture, and thoughtful conversations with experts and celebrity guests, all handpicked to make your day a little bit brighter, more joyful, and fun. 

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Ever think of trying to run your family more like a business? Economist Emily Oster has. She returns to help guide parents through the less-frequent but more substantial challenges of parenting during the elementary and preteen years. Bringing insights from her book “The Family Firm,” she recommends looking at strategies employed by successful businesses — like identifying your core values, and focusing on "the four F's" — to create a plan for navigating these tricky years.

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Today we are back with another installment of “Mom Friend,” a judgment-free zone to explore the often-overwhelming work of parenting. Emily Oster is back. She is an economist, bestselling author of “Expecting Better” and “Cribsheet,” and is the CEO of ParentData. We unpack what the data says about all the parenting concerns that arise from birth through the preschool years.

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Kirbie Johnson returns! She’s a beauty guru and co-host of the podcast “Gloss Angeles,” who’s also known for her work with The Cut, PopSugar, and more. She joins the show to pop off on a viral parenting controversy, the pros and cons of wedding content creators, and who’s the real queen of Halloween? 

Check out our episode with Alexene Farol Follmuth here! 

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This episode is for anyone who works, whether you’re a first-time job-seeker or looking to make a pivot to something more fulfilling. 

Gianna Prudente and Jamé Jackson Gadsden host LinkedIn’s work podcast “Let’s Talk Offline.” They offer strategies for leveraging LinkedIn to land your dream job — like creating a compelling personal brand, building genuine connections, and more. Plus, they dive into how Gen Z is reshaping the workplace.

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Antoni Porowski, star of “Queer Eye” and host of “No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski,” shares about the power of food in connecting cultures and people, the lessons learned from his immigrant background, and the importance of preserving family stories. Hear about his surprising journey to the cast of “Queer Eye,” what he’s looking for in love, and what he wants to be doing when he’s a “wrinkly old raisin.” Plus, for anyone who’s ever counted their macros — Simone surprises Antoni with a protein snack taste test! 

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All of us struggle with saying no to situations, people, and dynamics in our lives. Today we’re diving into developing healthy boundaries with licensed therapist and relationship expert Nedra Tawwab. She’s the author of the New York Times bestselling book “Set Boundaries, Find Peace,” as well as “Drama Free” and “Consider This.” She breaks down the difference between healthy, rigid, and porous boundaries and also gives us a great perspective on boundary setting around the holidays. 

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Actor and producer Jessica Biel has done many things in her career, but writing a children’s book about periods was not something she anticipated doing. She stops by The Bright Side to talk about her new book, A Kids Book About Periods, and why she’s on a mission to ease the shame that can come with puberty and menstruation. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss Molly Baz’s Times Square billboard, and is secretly making your fiancé pay for their engagement ring scammy? Weigh in: hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com

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The singular Chelsea Handler — author, comedian, host, and icon — dishes all about her journey to turning 50 and the upcoming release of her new book, “I'll Have What She's Having” (out February 25th). Whether it was a crisis of confidence when she was at the very top, or bombing at a comedy showcase early in her career, Chelsea opens up about the life-changing moments that have shaped her into the fearless, bold woman she is today.

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The color-obsessed content creator Courtney Quinn — better known as Color Me Courtney — joins the show to talk about the power of color, and what different colors say about our clothes, our confidence, and even our show’s logo! Plus, Danielle and Simone talk about the upcoming Margot Robbie-produced Monopoly movie, Lenny Kravitz working out in leather pants, and the colors we’re wearing this season. Are you all about bright colors, or do you prefer a more neutral palette? Send us a voice memo at hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com. 

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Jacqueline Novak is the co-host of the podcast “Poog,” the author of “How to Weep in Public: Feeble Offerings on Depression from One Who Knows,” and the force behind the Netflix special “Get On Your Knees” — a comedically highbrow exploration of a less-than-highbrow sex act. She talks about the act of creating something unique, and of being true to who you are. Simone fills Danielle in on a life-changing retreat.

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When Asma Khan was in her 20s, she couldn’t even boil an egg. By the age of 45, Asma led an all-female kitchen staff at her acclaimed London restaurant, Darjeeling Express. Today, Asma is an award-winning chef, a bestselling cookbook author and a fierce advocate for women in professional kitchens. Asma joins the Bright Side to discuss how her upbringing in India ignited her to revolutionize the culinary world.

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From her tenure on both “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette,” Hannah Brown was thrown into the reality TV world of love and relationships. Was it real? And what did she learn about love on and off the camera? Since her stint on the shows, she has made her debut as a romance novelist. She came on the show to talk about what love is — and what it isn’t. 

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In this special edition of “Poppin’ Off,” we’re joined by our Emmy-winning showrunner Tim Palazzola! Tim, Simone, and Danielle unpack the controversial stripping of Jordan Chiles' Olympic bronze medal, the media's obsession with creating rivalries among women, an odd collaboration on a new mayonnaise-scented cologne, and the upcoming Disney "Villains Land" — a dark, new take on classic Disney lore. 

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Naz Perez is a host, film critic, and founder of the support group Heartbroken Anonymous. On today’s Poppin’ Off we talk about the hottest Halloween costume ideas this year, big Y2K fashion comebacks, and what to look out for next year's "Superfine" Met Gala. 

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In our first-ever Halloween episode, Danielle and Simone are joined by comedian and Halloween enthusiast Lauren Lapkus. They dive into the spooky season with laughs and chills, sharing details about Lauren's hilarious podcast, “Haunting,” where she brings real ghost stories to life through her character Theresa—a dead influencer stuck between worlds.

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Showrunner Tim Palazzola joins Danielle and Simone for another laughter-filled episode. They pop off on Oscar nominations, love lessons from Khloé Kardashian, and whether or not they’ve ever “quiet vacationed.” Plus, they share their predictions for the biggest fashion trends of 2025.

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Looking for science-backed ways to lift your mood and boost your happiness? Karen Guggenheim is the co-founder of The World Happiness Summit, a pioneer in the global happiness movement and a leader in promoting the science behind happiness. On this week’s Wellness Wednesday, Karen shares the simple, yet powerful steps you can take even when life feels overwhelming and the number one action you can start today to create more happiness in your life.

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She’s been a “Bond girl,” flew through space in “Starship Troopers,” and burst a breast implant on the set of a reality show. ’90’s icon and reality star Denise Richards reflects on her exceptional life and celebrates her upcoming reality show, “Denise Richards and Her Wild Things,” out March 4. She opens up about navigating Hollywood’s challenges, her experience with the media, and how she’s worked to protect her daughters from the darker sides of the industry. Denise also discusses her past with Charlie Sheen and her current marriage to Aaron Phypers, and addresses some rumors about her in a game of “Wild or Mild.”

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Glynnis MacNicol, author of "I'm Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself," joins the show to discuss how single women can (and do) embrace joy and self-discovery — and how to redefine success and pleasure in middle age. Plus, Simone and Danielle get into societal pressures, gender biases in success timelines, and examples of late bloomers who defied societal expectations. 

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Dr. Sasha Hamdani — known online as @thepsychdoctormd — is a board-certified psychiatrist and ADHD specialist. She shines a light on the unique ways ADHD presents in women, the impact of late diagnoses, and the interplay between hormonal changes and ADHD symptoms. Dr. Hamdani also shares her personal insights and expertise in managing her own ADHD diagnosis. This episode originally aired Oct. 23, 2024. 

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Comedians, writers, and partners in life Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne join the show to talk about how they first met and fell in love, co-directing their new film “Am I Ok?” starring Dakota Johnson, and a meeting with Reese Witherspoon that may or may not have gone off the rails. Plus, a party bus with Pedro Pascal? 

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When author Chelsey Goodan started tutoring girls, she realized that what they needed most was for someone to listen to them. Her new book, “Underestimated: The Wisdom and Power of Teenage Girls,” is the result of all that listening. It's a practical guide for those looking to help empower girls and change the narrative of perfection that so many girls have internalized.  Plus, in honor of Mother’s Day, Danielle and Simone’s moms stop by The Bright Side studios to drop some motherly wisdom. Have a Mother’s Day shout out? Email us: hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com. 

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Dr. Aditi Nerurkar is a leading expert in stress management and resilience. She joins the show to give actionable advice on navigating stress and burnout, and finding joy amidst life's challenges. She lays out how stress impacts our bodies, the differences between healthy and unhealthy stress, and gives practical techniques like "stop, breathe, be" to manage stress in real time. Dr. Nerurkar shares insights from her book "The Five Resets: Rewire Your Brain and Body for Less Stress and More Resilience.”

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Economist and CEO of ParentData Emily Oster returns, this time dispelling myths and shedding light into the complexities of fertility. She discusses what does and doesn’t affect sperm and eggs, the science behind egg freezing, the impact of stress on fertility, and much more. 

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Optimism is not just an outlook — it’s a mindset. And it’s a mindset that can change your life for the better, according to Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist and the author of “Practical Optimism.” Dr. Varma says you can actually train your brain to become more optimistic by learning to reframe negative situations. The effects are stunning. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss Billie Eilish’s new album, Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen, and Rihanna on plastic surgery. Have a hot take on celeb culture? You can reach our show at hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com. 

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Beyoncé drops her Levi’s, Sabrina Carpenter critics need to move on, and autumn rings in merlot nails and other cozy fashion vibes. Here to get into all that and more is Julissa Bermudez, former host of “106 & Park,” star of “Empire Girls,” and the founder of República Skin. She asks the important questions, like why drink a smoothie from a deodorant brand? And how did Beyoncé fit into those Levi’s to begin with?

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Giada De Laurentiis is an Italian food icon and an Emmy-winning TV personality whose energy is as infectious as her culinary expertise is deep. The former host of “Everyday Italian” and “Giada at Home” shares insights into her early days at the Food Network, breaking stereotypes throughout her career, and the inspiration behind her latest chapter — the launch of her new platform, Giadzy. 

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It is National Stress Awareness Day. It’s a tremendously stressful time but there’s so much hope! Judith Moskowitz is a psychologist and Northwestern University professor who studies the unique mental and physical health effects of positive emotions. She comes on the show to break down all the ways you can embrace a positive mindset in your life today and into the future.

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Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson East was 20 years old and a star gymnast when she decided to leave her sport in 2012. More than a decade later, she experienced the Olympics in Paris with kids and to her – it was better than any gold medal. Shawn joins the Bright Side to talk about what life has been like in her current chapter of marriage and motherhood and how retiring led her to see herself as someone who has value outside of gymnastics.

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J. Courtney Sullivan is the author of “The Cliffs,” Reese’s Book Club pick for July. Known for her multilayered generational narratives, her work has received acclaim from icons like Gloria Steinem, Oprah Winfrey, and Reese Witherspoon. In today's episode, she discusses the central themes of her novel — the constraints and opportunities determined by a woman’s moment in history, and the poetry found when we delve deep into the history of a place. You can find “The Cliffs” on Apple Books or wherever you get your books.

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Dr. Flo Rosen, AKA Ask Bubbie, joins The Bright Side for our regular “Grand Ol’ Grannies” segment with our favorite advice-giving grandmas. The former pediatrician turned TikTok phenom drops some truth bombs about gentle parenting, keeping sane with a fussy child, and when the best time is to visit new parents. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss the solar eclipse, bachelorette parties, and Mel B getting kicked out of the Spice Girls chat. Which Spice Girl are you? Send us a voice memo at hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode. 

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Dr. Kathleen Smith has a fascination with people-pleasing: why we do it, why it’s hard to shake, and how to actually break free from it. She is a licensed therapist, expert on relationship systems, and author of “Everything Isn’t Terrible: Conquer Your Insecurities, Interrupt Your Anxiety, and Finally Calm Down” as well as “True to You: A Therapist’s Guide to Stop Pleasing Others and Starting Being Yourself.” She breaks down some practical tips for understanding the disease to please and why birth order has a lot to do with it! 

She also writes a newsletter called “The Anxious Overachiever” which you can subscribe to here:  https://theanxiousoverachiever.substack.com/

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Who will win big at this weekend’s Academy Awards? Do you need a nemesis in your life? What do you think about last names as first names for new babies? To answer these questions and more, Danielle and Simone are joined by everyone’s favorite showrunner, our very own Tim Palazzola!

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Ada Limón draws inspiration from nature — from feeling like a part of a much larger, awesome whole. She’s partnering with the National Park Service to create the “You Are Here” initiative: seven picnic tables at seven National Parks, each featuring a site-specific poem selected by Ada. And later this year, she’s sending one of her poems to space on NASA’s Europa Clipper! She shares insights about her relationship to poetry, and gives a prompt to help all of us get in touch with our inner poet. Plus, Sophia Bush and letting yourself exhale, whether to block an ex, and fake celebrity relationships.

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Eleven years ago, Kerry Diamond launched Cherry Bombe, a magazine dedicated to raising a glass to women in and around the food world. Since then,  it’s grown into a media empire that includes podcasts, conferences and a fan base known as The Bombe Squad. She joins The Bright Side to talk about doing things on her own terms and how she learned to listen to her gut.

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Reyna Roberts may or may not have discovered she would be featured on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album the way the rest of us did: when she heard her own voice on two of the tracks. Reyna joins The Bright Side to talk about what it’s like to be a black artist in a predominantly white genre, the Beyoncé effect on country music, and she sticks around to play a round of “This or That'' with the hosts. Plus, Taylor Swift joins the billionaire club, Shakira’s hot take on Barbie, and our weird celebrity crushes. 

Be a part of The Bright Side! Are you watching the NCAA FInal Four this weekend? What do you make of the Caitlin Clark effect? Send us a voice memo at hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode. 

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Friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson returns for another “Asking for a Friend.” She lays out how conflict in our friendships is not only normal, but an opportunity to meet a need and ultimately strengthen the relationship. And she gives us some concrete pointers on how to navigate that conflict. Her book “Fighting for Our Friendships” is out May 7. Plus, adventures in recreating healthy recipes at home, keeping tabs on your friends and family, and the girls soccer team that beat a boys team for a championship. Need some friendship advice? Send us an email at hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com and we may get you an answer from an expert!

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Rita Omokha is a journalist and the author of the new book “Resist: How a Century of Young Black Activists Shaped America.” She takes us on a journey through history, sharing stories of powerful young Black activists — past and present — whose courage and determination have reshaped America’s fight for justice, and connects them to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plus, she explores her own experience of racial politics in the U.S. as a Nigerian-American — particularly after the murder of George Floyd. 

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Creator and star of “Suffs” Shaina Taub talks about bringing history to life with her Tony-Award-winning musical about the American Suffrage Movement. Shaina shares her journey to bring “Suffs” to the stage, how she ended up starring as Alice Paul, and her work with Sir Elton John on “The Devil Wears Prada” musical.

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Frustrated with viral skin care misinformation, Dr. Shereene Idriss posted her first video debunking myths in 2018. Since then, Dr. Idriss has grown a community of of more than three million skincare “nerds” across her social media, and has founded a science-backed skincare line called Dr. Idriss. For Wellness Wednesday,  the Internet’s favorite board-certified dermatologist joins the show to share research-based advice and break down why less is more with skincare. 

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