Work in Progress with Sophia Bush

"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" star Kelli Giddish joins Sophia to reminisce about their early SVU-Chicago P.D. crossover days — find out why she still thanks Sophia in her head every time she goes out to dinner! Plus, Kelli opens up about her scrappy NYC beginnings, a meet-cute you can’t script and why she's not making any long-term plans for SVU.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this journey of life, sometimes it can feel like we have lost our way.  Dr. Thema Bryant has written a road map for those seeking to discover their authentic selves, which can lead to a path of greater fulfillment. The renowned psychologist, author, and professor joins Sophia for an inspiring conversation full of truth bombs we all need to hear, including not being afraid of feeling disappointment, recognizing the signs of emotionally unavailable people, and learning to trust yourself. Dr. Thema’s book “Matters of the Heart” is available in bookstores now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a second grader, Zerlina Maxwell was obsessed with politics, so it was no surprise that she would go on to work for two presidential campaigns. Today, she is a highly regarded political analyst, a best-selling author, and host of 'Mornings with Zerlina' on SiriusXM. A little over a month into this presidency, we are already in the 'find out' stage. With a wealth of experience, Zerlina joins Sophia to help break down the current state of things, what Democrats missed with their messaging, how they can improve communication to connect with everyday people, and the valuable lessons she learned from working on the campaigns of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many people are feeling heartbroken and terrified right now, and the biggest question in the air is, what went wrong?  The View co-host, political strategist, and commentator Ana Navarro joins Sophia to try to make sense of the election outcome, the Latino vote, the role misogyny, racism, and misinformation played during the election, the importance of supporting organizations that help our most vulnerable, and how we move forward. Ana also discusses the importance of Democrats finding strong candidates to run for office in 2026, choosing hope vs hate, the importance of self-care at a time like this, and a reminder - you are not alone! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rebecca Traister is an award-winning writer covering women in politics and media, a best-selling author and one of Sophia’s idols! Rebecca joins Sophia to discuss the shifting ideas of power distribution, the clash we are in the middle of now, what preceded the rise of Donald Trump, the preventable death of a pregnant teen in Texas because of the state's abortion ban, and the Republicans' plan to undermine workplace protections. Rebecca is the author of "Big Girls Don't Cry," "All the Single Ladies," and "Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women's Anger." For more information on Rebecca and her work, visit rebeccatraister.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harvard Professor, bestselling author, and founder of Vision & Justice, Sarah Lewis, is bringing to light what has been hidden from view about racial hierarchy in the U.S. in her new illuminating book, "The Unseen Truth: When Race Changed Sight in America." Sarah joins Sophia to discuss her extensive investigative work that revealed the hidden history of images that changed our perceptions of race. They also discuss the moments in history that have shaped us, how Frederick Douglass' speech on the power of images inspired Sarah's work, and how her near-death experience changed her outlook on life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some of the brightest minds, activists, and trailblazers came together in NYC for The Ford Foundation's Free Future panel, "Preventing Gender Violence Around the World." Sophia and Chase Strangio, Deputy Director for Transgender Justice with the ACLU's LGBT & HIV Project, explain why the ACLU is heading to the Supreme Court to fight for trans youth health care and what's at stake. For more information, head over to aclu.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get ready for an inspiring chat about the shift and rise of women's sports!Sophia takes us back to the Paris Olympics and her chat with Li Li Leung, the President and CEO of USA Gymnastics, WNBA Player Monique Billings, and Volleyball National Champion Madisen Skinner, about the future of women's sports, including the importance of mentorship, finding balance, advice for success in collegiate sports, the athletes that inspired them, and not being afraid of doing things that scare you! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Live from the DNC, our friend CNN’s Laura Coates turns the tables and interviews Sophia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Glynnis MacNicol is living her dream! Over 40, single, childfree, enjoying her freedom, and living life to the fullest, and she's written a memoir all about it! The author, journalist, and podcaster joins Sophia to chat about her new book, "I'm Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself," which chronicles her time in Paris in pursuit of pleasure! She reveals what led her to leave her life in New York for Paris, how her experiences challenge societal assumptions about women of a certain age, why she thinks her book is resonating with readers, and the satisfaction of claiming your freedom and finding joy in aging! "I'm Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself: One Woman's Pursuit of Pleasure in Paris" is available for purchase now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With polarization on the rise, some may start feeling helpless and hopeless, but there's a beacon of hope on the horizon...an international organization actively working towards global peace. Shamil Idriss, CEO of Search for Common Ground, a non-profit that works to stabilize conflict zones and heal communities, joins Sophia to talk about the mission of the organization, the impact of their work, transforming conflict into cooperation, the five vital pillars to determine a healthy society, the power of using your voice to push for change, and what is essential for peacebuilding. For more information on Search for Common Ground and how you can contribute to their mission, visit sfcg.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When her country called, she answered. Mae Krier is a real-life Rosie the Riveter who, at just 17, left home to work in a factory and help her country during World War II. The trailblazer and Congressional Gold Medal recipient shares her journey with Sophia, which spans the Great Depression, living through 17 American Presidents and contributing to the war effort by building bombers for Boeing during WWII. It's a riveting story from a member of the greatest generation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a child, Luke Russert would grab a mic and narrate his surroundings, a habit that was not surprising given his parents' profession. His early exposure to journalism, growing up on sets and around politics, laid the foundation for his future career.  Luke joins Sophia to share his experience growing up in the world of journalism and the impact the loss of his dad, Tim Russert, had on him. He opens up about delivering a eulogy to a room full of presidents and senators, forging his own career path, dealing with comparisons to his father, and the surprising advice he received that made him decide to walk away from the world of news for a while. He also talks about his journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with grief which led to his book, "Look for Me There: Grieving My Father, Finding Myself," available now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talented artist, director, and New York Times bestselling author Miranda July was "hell-bent on expressing" herself at a young age, so she made a path for herself encompassing multiple platforms.  Miranda joins Sophia to discuss her creative process, the inspiration behind some of her projects, and her latest book, "All Fours," which is getting rave reviews.  "All Fours" is available for purchase now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trained dietitian, entrepreneur, and plant-based cook Radhi Devlukia transformed her relationship with food by consciously cooking and using meals to support her well-being, and she's on a mission to help others take their health back into their hands through good, flavorful food!  Radhi joins Sophia to talk about how her upbringing and personal life led to her career path, how anxiety is wrecking your gut health, and the benefits of Ayurveda, which leads Sophia to reveal how an Ayurvedic cleanse helped with her asthma.  Plus, Radhi talks about her new cookbook, "Joyfull: Cook Effortlessly, Eat Freely, Live Radiantly," and shares the recipe for a drink that will help jump-start digestion and help with bloating and gas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson went from being a shy kid to being a successful actor on Broadway and the big and small screen . . . and now he's a successful podcast host too! Is there anything he can't do? The actor joins Sophia to chat about his journey to becoming an actor, which started at the tender age of eight, how he feels now looking back on his "Modern Family" days, fun stories from the set, and juggling home and work life with two little ones at home!  Plus, the scoop on his podcast "Dinner's On Me," including upcoming guests and favorite restaurants you should check out!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary actress Jane Fonda found her calling for activism in the 60s and never looked back. At age 86, she continues to pursue change with a contagious enthusiasm and necessary urgency.  The Oscar winner joins Sophia for a conversation that explores her complicated childhood, her relationship with her father, and how she untangled herself from the pressures of Hollywood. A true work in progress, Jane also examines her resilience and where she hopes to improve in what she calls her final act. These days, Fonda is busier than ever fighting climate change and invites listeners to join the Jane Fonda Climate Pac by texting JANE to 40506. For more information on the important work she’s doing, visit JanePac.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bryan Greenberg has entertained fans on the big and small screen for over two decades, including playing fan favorite Jake Jaglieski on "One Tree Hill" . . . but now he is expanding his resume to include writer, producer, and director.  Bryan joins Sophia to talk about his new movie, "Junction," and how his own brush with opioid abuse inspired it, how he got such an impressive cast to join him on set, including Sophia, and the four-year journey to make the movie.  Bryan also talks about how and when he got into acting, how he and his lovely wife, Jamie Chung, juggle their careers and parenthood (they have twin boys)! Plus, a little 'One Tree Hill' behind-the-scenes chat you won't want to miss! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophia is back, and she is answering your questions!  After a health scare, Sophia reveals she is learning to prioritize her health and working on not putting herself last. She admits this election year has made her anxious, and there have been a few sleepless nights . . . she details how she is coping with that, and she also gives tips on how to talk to someone with opposing political views.  Plus, Sophia shares her favorite coffee order and the most requested dish she loves to make when hosting an event! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ava DuVernay went from working behind the scenes as a Hollywood publicist to picking up a camera at the age of thirty-two and changing her career path to become an award-winning, celebrated writer and director.  Ava joins Sophia to talk about her journey into filmmaking, why she is at the most vulnerable time of her life, and what it was like crowdfunding her latest and most personal film, "Origin," which tackles race and hierarchies.  "Origin" is in theaters on January 19th. To support the film, go to Seat16.com and gift $16 for a ticket and a one-year subscription to masterclass to teens across the United States. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She went from a trial attorney to a federal prosecutor, walking away from the law and turning to journalism so she could have a voice for those without one.  CNN's Laura Coates joins Sophia to talk about her time working in the US Department of Justice, what she was ill-prepared for, the moment that changed her career path, and how you should approach this election year, including the most dangerous thing a voter can do.  Plus, Laura breaks down some of today's political headlines, including Colorado and Maine taking Donald Trump off the ballot. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Born into a life of activism, Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood, is on a mission to help win back reproductive rights!  Alexis joins Sophia to talk about the moment that inspired her to join Planned Parenthood, the harmful impact the overturning of Roe v. Wade is having on regular, everyday people, and the critical fight happening right now for reproductive health rights.  Alexis also discusses the states where abortion is going to be on the ballot and how to get informed and involved.  For more information, visit:  Florida -  https://floridiansprotectingfreedom.com/NY -  https://nyequalrights.org/Planned Parenthood Action -  https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Air Force Veteran and former Congressman Adam Kinzinger followed Republican party lines until January 6, 2021 . . . that's when he decided enough was enough, but it came at a cost.  Adam shares his political journey with Sophia, from his strict religious upbringing, finding himself in the military, getting into politics, to standing up to his own party by voting to impeach Donald Trump and joining the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the Capitol. Plus, Adam talks about what it was like being in the Capital on January 6, having friends and family turn their backs on him, and what he thinks it will take for the GOP to be great again. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Her story of resilience and strength is truly inspirational, from living in her car as a teen struggling to make ends meet to becoming a Grammy-nominated multi-platinum selling artist.  Singer and songwriter Jewel opens up to Sophia about being homeless at 18 because she refused to sleep with her boss, why she turned down a million-dollar recording contract at the start of her career, the legendary artist that helped her land her first big break, to now celebrating the 25th Anniversary of her hit sophomore album, "Spirit."  Jewel also discusses prioritizing her mental health over success and fame, starting her foundation over 20 years ago to help at-risk youth, and how you can join the #NotAloneChallenge on social media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She was one of the highest-paid supermodels of the 80s, gracing the covers of countless magazines around the globe, used to being seen but never heard . . . until now.  Paulina Porizkova joins Sophia to share her journey from child refugee to international supermodel, how working in the fashion industry took a toll on her mental health, dealing with societal pressures put on women, and getting better with age! Plus, Paulina reveals how social media has played a big role in her life . . . finally giving her a platform to get her voice heard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For over three decades, Grammy and Oscar-winning rockstar Melissa Etheridge has dazzled audiences across the globe. Now, she is lighting up the Broadway stage with her one-woman act.  The rock icon joins Sophia to talk about her journey from a kid in the midwest with a guitar to a globe-trotting hitmaker, how her critically acclaimed stage show came about, the decision to open up about her son's passing in her memoir, and growing up in the '60s and '70s, and the consequences of coming out then versus now.  Plus, Melissa is going on tour again this spring! How she feels about hitting the road again, and details about her upcoming special coming to Paramount+ soon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

His work on the big and small screen has earned him plenty of accolades (Selma, Nightingale), but his philanthropic work is truly inspiring. Award-winning actor, director, and producer David Oyelowo joins Sophia to chat about growing up in Nigeria, experiencing culture shock when he moved to London, the importance of representation in Hollywood, and the inspiration behind his foundation helping girls in Nigeria. Plus, David got a call from a mega superstar in the middle of the podcast! For more information on the David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship for Girls, visit Geanco.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She found herself smack dab in the middle of a political firestorm during the Trump administration . . . now the former White House aide is telling all in her new book, "Enough."  Cassidy Hutchinson joins Sophia to discuss the events leading up to the January 6th Capital attack, Trump's gleeful reaction to the chaos, his refusal to send a tweet to diffuse the situation for hours, and her bombshell testimony before the House committee investigating the attacks and the fallout.  Plus, Hutchinson shares her journey to the White House, why she aligned herself with the Republican Party, and taking accountability for being complacent during the attacks on the Capital. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She found herself smack dab in the middle of a political firestorm during the Trump administration . . . now the former White House aide is telling all in her new book, "Enough."  Cassidy Hutchinson joins Sophia to discuss the events leading up to the January 6th Capital attack, Trump's gleeful reaction to the chaos, his refusal to send a tweet to diffuse the situation for hours, and her bombshell testimony before the House committee investigating the attacks and the fallout.  Plus, Hutchinson shares her journey to the White House, why she aligned herself with the Republican Party, and taking accountability for being complacent during the attacks on the Capital. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophia reunites with Hilarie Burton for a very special WIP live from Hilarie's "Grimoire Girl: A Memoir of Magic and Mischief" Live Talks LA Event in Santa Monica!  The duo talks about the importance of telling your story on your terms, discovering magic in the world, finding fun in failure, not being afraid of making poor choices, and who is the worst hoarder between the two!  Plus, the ladies reveal what bums them out, why it's important to celebrate your wins, and you won't believe the one thing Hilarie has all over her house . . . it's an eyeful!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While others run away from danger, journalists like Matt Gutman run towards it.  The Chief National Correspondent for ABC News joins Sophia from Israel.  Gutman is on the ground reporting on the latest war between Israel and Hamas. He shares what he is seeing and experiencing in the war-torn area, how he's protecting himself, both physically and emotionally, while covering the story, and what was happening when he had to evacuate in the middle of a live report for 'The View.' Plus, Gutman talks about his new book, "No Time to Panic," which details his struggles with panic attacks, how they threatened to affect his career, and how he manages his anxiety. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are triple threats, quadruple threats, and then there is E.R. Fightmaster . . . non-binary actor, writer, comedian, producer, and musician.  The multi-hyphenate opens up to Sophia about being the first non-binary character on "Grey's Anatomy," loving and fighting for their community, their journey of self-discovery, and the importance of representation in media.  Plus, E.R. talks about their new music debuting later this month and why they chose to call their EP "Violence." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's guest went from working as an intern at CNN to becoming a trusted face in news covering campaigns and the White House.  CNN's chief political correspondent, anchor of Inside Politics with Dana Bash, and co-anchor of State of the Union with Jake Tapper joins Sophia to talk about her journey into journalism, the pressure of getting a story right, and the rigors of covering breaking news.  Plus, Dana gives an explainer on the Hamas attack on Israel and breaks down why Kevin McCarthy got voted out as Speaker of the House and the impact it will have on the White House. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the A-List to the New York Times Best Sellers List, to using his star power for good . . . there's little Matthew McConaughey cannot do!  The Academy Award-winning actor joins Sophia to talk about his non-profit foundation aimed at empowering and providing a safe space for high school students, his new book and the inspiration behind it, and how he got into acting.  Plus, Matthew reveals what kind of kid he was growing up and shares some of the many accolades he won in high school, including 'most spirited.'  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We kick off our first episode back with former White House Press Secretary and host of one of the most-watched news programs on MSNBC, Jen Psaki.  Jen joins Sophia to discuss her journey to the White House, putting her neck on the line for her beliefs and the news sources she trusts the most.  Plus, Jen talks about what she wants audiences to get out of her show, what you should know going into the next election, and she weighs in on the concerns over Biden's age. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We kick off our first episode back with former White House Press Secretary and host of one of the most-watched news programs on MSNBC, Jen Psaki.  Jen joins Sophia to discuss her journey to the White House, putting her neck on the line for her beliefs and the news sources she trusts the most.  Plus, Jen talks about what she wants audiences to get out of her show, what you should know going into the next election, and she weighs in on the concerns over Biden's age. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cast of Good Sam, Sophia's new show, answers rapid fire questions so we can get to know them better!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Part 2 of this special episode where Sophia flips the mic and she's put in the hot seat by two of her best friends, Jenny Smart and Vanessa Magos. Sophia answers both light-hearted and deep questions from her besties, tackles fan questions, PLUS they play a fun game!Executive Producers: Sophia Bush & Rabbit Grin ProductionsAssociate Producers: Samantha Skelton & Mica SangiacomoEditor: Josh WindischArtwork by the Hoodzpah SistersThis show is brought to you by Brilliant AnatomySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophia flips the mic and she's put in the hot seat by two of her best friends, Jenny Smart and Vanessa Magos. Sophia answers both fun and deep questions from her besties, tackles fan questions, and more! Don't forget to tune in next week for Part 2!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode was originally released on September 8, 2020. Jamil Smith is a talented journalist and Emmy-Award-winning television producer whose work explores a range of political and cultural topics including national affairs, race and racism, police brutality, feminism and gender roles, identity, and pop culture. Jamil joins Sophia on the podcast to discuss the depths of our country’s politics and culture, the Black Lives Matter movement, Breonna Taylor & Jacob Blake, the current climate in America, what it would really mean for us to love each other a little more…and so, so much more in this powerful, must-listen episode.Executive Producers: Sophia Bush & Rabbit Grin ProductionsAssociate Producers: Samantha Skelton & Mica SangiacomoEditor: Josh WindischArtwork by the Hoodzpah SistersThis show is brought to you by Brilliant AnatomySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In honor of Black History Month, Work in Progress in honored to have journalist and Emmy-award winning television producer Jamil Smith on the podcast for a two-part special. Jamil joins Sophia to talk about growing up in a feminist household, the importance of fueling the intellect of children, understanding the black experience, telling the Beverly Johnson story, and so much more.Executive Producers: Sophia Bush & Rabbit Grin ProductionsAssociate Producers: Samantha Skelton & Mica SangiacomoEditor: Josh WindischArtwork by the Hoodzpah SistersThis show is brought to you by Brilliant AnatomySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special part 2 episode with Jason Isaacs, Jason joins Sophia to talk about what draws him to acting and the curiosity of getting to live different lives, therapy, what his current work in progress is, and so much more!Executive Producers: Sophia Bush & Rabbit Grin ProductionsAssociate Producers: Samantha Skelton & Mica SangiacomoEditor: Josh WindischArtwork by the Hoodzpah SistersThis show is brought to you by Brilliant AnatomySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Isaacs is a remarkable actor, philanthropist, and Sophia's TV Dad on their new show, Good Sam. You may have seen Jason as Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter series, Captain Hook in Peter Pan, Colonel William Tavington in The Patriot, or Hap in The OA. Today, you'll get to see Jason in a whole new light as he talks with Sophia about his childhood, what drew him to acting when he was in college, and so much more. Don't forget this is only part 1, so be sure to check back next week for part 2!Executive Producers: Sophia Bush & Rabbit Grin ProductionsAssociate Producers: Samantha Skelton & Mica SangiacomoEditor: Josh WindischArtwork by the Hoodzpah SistersThis show is brought to you by Brilliant AnatomySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cast of Good Sam, Sophia's new show, answers rapid fire questions so we can get to know them better! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Katie Wech is a TV and film writer for shows such as Rizzoli & Isles, Jane the Virgin, and most recently she’s the creator of Good Sam. Joining her is Jennie Snyder Urman, a writer herself, although more often credited as a producer for shows like Gilmore Girls, Charmed, Jane the Virgin, and now she’s the executive producer of Good Sam. Katie and Jennie join Sophia on the podcast today to talk about their journey to becoming writers, how the TV show Good Sam came together, and so much more!Executive Producers: Sophia Bush & Rabbit Grin ProductionsAssociate Producers: Samantha Skelton & Mica SangiacomoEditor: Josh WindischArtwork by the Hoodzpah SistersThis show is brought to you by Brilliant AnatomySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special part 2 episode with Skye P. Marshall, Skye joins Sophia to talk about getting the role of Dr. Lex Trulie on their CBS show Good Sam, what their experience has been like on set together, and so much more!Executive Producers: Sophia Bush & Rabbit Grin ProductionsAssociate Producers: Samantha Skelton & Mica SangiacomoEditor: Josh WindischArtwork by the Hoodzpah SistersThis show is brought to you by Brilliant AnatomySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.