Episode 9: Laura Benanti & the Gospel of Divine Dissatisfaction
I still can’t even comprehend that Laura Benanti agreed to come talk with us. This conversation shook me. I had hoped for a great interview, but what I ended up getting was something far greater: a woman I deeply respect and admire. And not for her talents, though obviously I bow down at that altar.
Famous people are given alllll sorts of liberties that average civilians are not, and it can really fuck with their pretty little heads. I was nervous that Laura would be exhausted and over it before we even started. (Yes, I am aware that this constant self-bullying is not okay. And I am working on it.) Instead, I was greeted by a bright-eyed, clear-faced beam of pure light and energy. As she drank her very green smoothie and took time to carefully consider each question, I was struck by that moment of pure awe. Of course Laura Benanti has been on Broadway since she was 18, and has amassed more credits and accomplishments in the years since than can comfortably be listed off in a blog post. Of course the goddess that dedicated four years to helping us laugh at the horror show that was the Drumpf presidency. Of course she swears and has no patience for BULLSHIT. Of. Course.
We get into some real realness about the performance of motherhood in the episode, and I am so grateful to every listener who has reached out to share that it helped them feel better about the So Muchness of parenting. To anyone out there for whom it feels Too Much, please know that you matter. You are not alone, and there are brighter days ahead. We love you. Thanks for listening.