Alysia Reiner | Orange is the New Black Gave Me a New Lens... & a New Purpose

Alysia Reiner is a force in entertainment and activism. You might know her as DODC Agent Deever in Disney+’s Ms. Marvel or as Natalie "Fig" Figueroa on Netflix’s groundbreaking Orange Is the New Black, where she earned a SAG Award as part of the stellar cast. But Alysia’s talents go far beyond the screen.She’s not just an actress but also a producer, with hits like Equity (a Sundance favorite) and Egg (100% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes!). Beyond her Hollywood accolades, Alysia is a passionate advocate for women’s rights and climate change. She co-founded Livari, an eco-fashion initiative, and is the first eco emissary for zero-waste beauty brand Izzy. As an ambassador for GDIM and a board member of the Earth Day Initiative, Alysia speaks at prestigious venues like the White House and the United Nations, inspiring change in the entertainment industry and beyond. AND she’s a firefighter! WHAT?!Join us as we explore her journey, from breaking barriers in Hollywood to championing sustainability and empowering women worldwide. Alysia’s story is one of persistence, passion, and purpose—don’t miss it! IN THIS EPISODE:[2:00] Alysia talks about growing up and how she felt was was too big, not only physically but mentally and emotionally [5:28] Alysia discusses how recovery is a daily challenge and choosing to have different thoughts [6:10] Alysia talks about wanting to be an actress starting at a young age and the journey she went on [7:30] Alysia reflects on the tumor she had and how it changed her life [12:13] Alysia reflects on the ‘rejections’ she faced while trying to be an actress and the lessons learned [16:30] Alysia discusses how her fathers death shaped a big project she worked on about grief [23:00] Alysia tells the story of how a casting director told her to never get a nose job and she really held onto that[25:00] Alysia explains how there was no one big break for her, but several stepping stones[34:00] Alysia discusses her involvement in community service [47:27] Alysia wraps up with what she has learned about keeping steady while the world is so uncertain KEY TAKEAWAYS:[16:30] Alysia discusses how her fathers death shaped a big project she worked on about grief [28:00] Alysia explains Orange Is the New Black and the research she did for the show [40:00] Alysia talks about the unjust stories of our justice systemShow Notes:(Full episode release January 20, 2025) A big thank you to Alysia Reiner for joining the podcast and sharing your inspiring story. Your devotion to serving your community is truly incredible. Follow Alysia on Instagram: @alysiareinerFor the freckles mentioned in this program, go to: https://fazitbeauty.com/Learn more about Alysia Reiner: https://www.alysiareiner.com/about************Make sure to follow Jamie @jamiehess on Instagram for news & updates, and visit our companion Instagram account @gratitudeology for a sneak peek into the personal moments discussed on the show.************The Gratitudeology Podcast theme music is by HYLLS, performed by Nadia Ali @thenadiaali  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands