Eriq La Salle: From Coming to America and ER to Novelist and Master Storyteller

Big thanks to our partner, Dose. Give Dose a try today and get 35% off when you use code CARLOS. https://dosedaily.co/CARLOS Ever wonder what it takes to go from growing up in a tough neighborhood to starring in one of Hollywood's most iconic films? Eriq La Salle's story is one of grit, perseverance, and overcoming rejection—again and again. In this interview, he takes us through his journey, from a childhood in Hartford, raised by a single mother, to auditioning for Juilliard with no roadmap. Eriq reveals how he fought through constant setbacks in Hollywood, why he believes "writing is fighting," and how his persistence led him to become a published author after countless rejections. Now publishing under Sourcebooks alongside bestselling author Freida McFadden, he's gearing up for the release of the fourth installment in his Martyr Maker series, Laws of Solomon, on September 8th — with a fifth set to close it all out. In this candid conversation, Eriq also shares unforgettable moments from Coming to America and ER, including a funny memory from filming ER in Spain. He opens up about the challenges of fame, comparing it to a "200-pound St. Bernard" that has to be trained, and reflects on the deeper meaning of love, success, and the mistakes he's learned from along the way. This episode is packed with wisdom, motivation, and the resilience to keep fighting for your dreams—no matter the obstacles in your path. __________ At its core, The CARLOS Podcast is about resilience, fearlessness, and real truths we're not supposed to say out loud. If we've made you pause, rethink, or feel a little more connected, become part of what we're building. Here's what you can do: 👉 Join our membership community for early access, bonus episodes, and extra moments. 👉 Grab something from the online shop to represent the community wherever you are. 👉 If you're already a member, thank you, share this post with one person who loves real conversations. Join the community: Shop Dose: https://dosedaily.co/CARLOS (code CARLOS for 35% off) Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheCarlosPodcast Shop: https://thecarlospodcast.com/collections/the-carlos-podcast-merch IG: https://www.instagram.com/thecarlospodcast FB: https://www.facebook.com/thecarlospodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecarlospodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thecarlospodcast X: https://x.com/carlospodcast 00:00 Overcoming Rejection: Eriq La Salle's Writing Journey 01:08 Growing Up in Hartford: The Importance of Hard Work and Discipline 03:08 Mentor Guidance: Eriq's Path to Juilliard 05:31 From Talent to Discipline: The Secret to Eriq's Success 07:17 Coming to America Breakthrough: Landing the Iconic Role 09:15 Sponsor: Dose, The Health Supplement for Better Living 10:09 Eriq La Salle's Journey to Becoming a Novelist 12:59 Book Series and Influences: How Eriq La Salle Found His Voice 13:36 The Craft of Writing: One Sentence at a Time 14:40 Being a Black Man in 2026: Eriq La Salle's Perspective 15:38 Rapid Fire Favorites: Eriq's Quick Responses 16:18 Behind the Scenes of ER in Spain: A Memorable Experience 17:27 Love, Fame, and Patience: Eriq La Salle's Life Lessons 19:48 Journey Over Destination: The Power of Perseverance