Podcast Summary: "Call It What It Is" with Ariana DeBose

Title: Call It What It Is
Host: iHeartPodcasts (Jessica Capshaw and Camilla Luddington)
Guest: Ariana DeBose
Episode Release Date: March 31, 2025
Episode Highlight: Ariana DeBose discusses her journey in the entertainment industry, personal growth, managing relationships, and embracing change.

1. Introduction

The episode of "Call It What It Is" kicks off with the hosts, Jessica Capshaw and Camilla Luddington, warmly welcoming their special guest, Ariana DeBose. The conversation sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of Ariana's experiences, both personal and professional, highlighting the enduring friendship between Jessica and Camilla.

2. Friendship and First Meeting

Jessica reminisces about the first time she met Ariana on the set of West Side Story, describing the initial excitement and connection.

[03:34] Jessica Capshaw: "I get to look at your eyes while I say this in person. In real life."

Ariana recalls her first encounter with Jessica, marked by admiration and the beginning of a strong bond.

[05:38] Ariana DeBose: "I was like, maybe we have. I, like, dig her spirit."

3. Experiences on Set

The discussion delves into their shared experiences on set, particularly focusing on the demanding nature of acting and choreography. Ariana shares insights about the rigorous demands of dance in West Side Story.

[11:07] Ariana DeBose: "Dance is spiritual. It's like communion."

Jessica adds anecdotes about the intense work ethic of their co-star, Steven, emphasizing his dedication both on and off set.

[06:20] Jessica Capshaw: "He never really goes out because... he was so self-aware."

4. Handling Stress and Mental Health

Ariana opens up about the challenges of maintaining mental health amidst the pressures of the industry. She discusses moments of self-doubt, stress from award campaigns, and the physical toll of her performances.

[21:35] Ariana DeBose: "I didn't realize how many people I was gonna have to talk to and meet. I got sick. I developed 52 food allergies."

Jessica relates by sharing her observations on balancing personal well-being with professional commitments.

[24:00] Jessica Capshaw: "We need to learn. But that's okay. We need to grow."

5. Success and Recognition

The conversation shifts to Ariana's remarkable achievements, including her BAFTA win and experiences during award seasons. Ariana reflects on the unexpected nature of her nominations and the subsequent press tours.

[20:46] Ariana DeBose: "The win was getting to make the movie itself."

Jessica emphasizes the emotional and physical demands of such high-profile successes.

[25:05] Jessica Capshaw: "The show must go on."

6. Personal Growth and Manifesting

Ariana discusses her evolved approach to manifesting and personal growth, highlighting the importance of flexibility and trusting the universe.

[31:49] Ariana DeBose: "I use photos to represent the feeling of an experience that I would like to have."

Jessica concurs, sharing her journey towards recognizing the difference between reacting and responding.

[26:32] Jessica Capshaw: "How am I in this situation? Is my reaction what this situation needs?"

7. Navigating Relationships and Boundaries

The hosts and Ariana delve into the complexities of maintaining healthy relationships, both personally and professionally. They explore strategies for setting boundaries and handling toxic friendships.

[37:27] Jessica Capshaw: "So if anyone ever asks you, you…"

[38:28] Ariana DeBose: "And that's their ignorance, not mine."

They discuss the significance of direct communication and the courage required to address and manage challenging relationships.

[37:57] Jessica Capshaw: "And you got to be brave."

8. Industry Insights and Change

Ariana and Jessica share their perspectives on the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, emphasizing the need for diversity and the acceptance of different appearances on screen.

[60:12] Ariana DeBose: "But I think we're living in wild times as it is."

Jessica highlights the positive shifts towards more inclusive representations and the importance of maintaining one's reputation within the industry.

[57:50] Ariana DeBose: "I do care about my reputation."

9. Hair and Appearance Talk

Light-heartedly, the conversation shifts to personal style, specifically Ariana’s recent hairstyle change. They discuss the significance of hair in expressing individuality and the practical aspects of maintaining appearances in the acting world.

[65:12] Ariana DeBose: "I started immediately feeling the vibration of liberation as she was cutting my hair off."

Jessica shares humorous reflections on wigs and the behind-the-scenes efforts to maintain certain looks for roles.

[68:30] Ariana DeBose: "But, you know, that's the thing, though. Pop stars are real people too, and they have to protect their hair."

10. Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Jessica and Ariana express mutual appreciation for their friendship and the enriching conversations they've shared. They reinforce the themes of kindness, personal growth, and the importance of supportive relationships.

[70:44] Ariana DeBose: "Spread joy, kindness."

[71:13] Jessica Capshaw: "I look forward to every single time I get to see your bright shining eyes."

Notable Quotes:

• Jessica Capshaw on Self-Awareness:
  "[06:38] Jessica Capshaw: He was so self aware... he's done his work at work and also at home."

• Ariana DeBose on Dance as Spiritual Communion:
  "[11:07] Ariana DeBose: Dance is spiritual. It's like communion."

• Ariana on Manifesting from a Place of Flexibility:
  "[31:49] Ariana DeBose: I use photos to represent the feeling of an experience that I would like to have."

• Jessica on Balancing Reaction and Response:
  "[26:32] Jessica Capshaw: How am I in this situation? Is my reaction what this situation needs?"

• Ariana on Embracing Change:
  "[60:12] Ariana DeBose: But I think we're living in wild times as it is."

Conclusion

This episode of "Call It What It Is" offers a candid and heartfelt conversation between longtime friends Jessica Capshaw and Camilla Luddington, with the insightful addition of Ariana DeBose. Covering a spectrum of topics from personal struggles and industry challenges to the joys of friendship and self-expression, the episode provides listeners with valuable lessons in resilience, kindness, and the continual journey of personal growth.