Mya

Summary

---

Teen Beat – "Mya" (June 17, 2026)

Podcast Host: Danielle Fishel | Guest: Mya

---

Episode Overview

In this nostalgia-rich episode of Teen Beat, Danielle Fishel welcomes Grammy-winning R&B star Mya. The conversation dives deep into Mya's childhood, formative years, her breakthrough in the late 90s and early 2000s music scene, her family roots, iconic collaborations, and her journey as an independent artist with her new album, Retrospect. The discussion flows with candid stories, laughter, and poignant reflections on creativity, identity, and legacy.

---

Main Themes & Discussion Points

1. Growing Up with Music & Creative Roots

• Family Influence:
  • Mya was surrounded by music from birth in Washington, D.C. Her father led a band and her grandfather orchestrated for orchestras (17:12).
  • "My dad is the performer. She's [my mom] the artist, but she's also the accountant. She's sewn my costumes ... My dad, not so much." – Mya (19:42)
• Early Artistic Exploration:
  • Dance was her first passion (ballet, jazz, tap); she also learned violin, sang in choir, and dreamed of Broadway (18:13).
  • "I love to do so many things. But the record deal happened in the midst of my first year of college and ... I said, well, this is a shot that I might not get again, so let's go for it." (18:25)

2. Teen Years, Identity, and Finding Her Path

• Tomboy with a Creative Streak:
  • "My dad raised me a little rough around the edges … I was a bit of a tomboy. We played tag football, tackle football … I was very athletic." (20:24)
  • Quiet and observant except during performance or play (20:44)
• High School Life:
  • Graduated high school at 16, led the dance team, started teaching dance at 14 (21:07, 21:30)
  • Early rebellion: "I got my nose pierced illegally with a fake ID at 16." (21:51)
  • On parents’ reaction: "They thought it was fake because I'm a wimp when it comes to needles ... They were disappointed … they said, why would you do that to your face?" (22:22)
• Maintaining Normalcy Amid Fame:
  • Despite fame, enjoyed country life, riding dirt bikes and go karts, and valued family time (23:41)

3. Breaking Out in Music & Television

• Take Me There (Rugrats Soundtrack):
  • Mya describes working with Teddy Riley and spontaneous collaboration on the xylophone dance in the music video (8:49–11:12)
  • "The xylophone part — that was actually a freestyle." (11:08)
• Working with Legendary Producers:
  • Collaborated with Swizz Beatz, Babyface, Missy Elliott, Wyclef Jean, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Timbaland, and many more.
  • "Who blew you away the most?" – Danielle
    "Tricky Stewart … he knows how to play instruments, and I've watched him on the keys. But it's also a tie between Wyclef because he's a guitarist ... it's magic." (12:03)
• Iconic TV Appearances & Cultural Moments:
  • Reminisces on TRL, BET’s 106 & Park, and memorable moments with ODB (Old Dirty Bastard), including his infamous "nothing" answer about giving back on TRL (27:44)
  • On TRL’s live audience: "There's nothing like that ... it's electric." (26:43)

4. Navigating the Industry & Independence

• Family’s Support and Transition:
  • Parents managed her early career but divorced at her debut’s release, shifting management responsibilities.
    "At the release of my first single, they got divorced. ... I found myself being managed by those that I didn't know. ... My mom has always remained my accountant." (33:34–34:18)
  • Shared fixation on organization and avoiding entertainment industry horror stories through careful parental accounting (34:29)
• Private Life & Modern Fame:
  • "You've somehow also been able to avoid being gossip fodder ..." – Danielle
    "I think I could do it with the faith that I've been rooted in, in any timeline ... but I would want a mentor ... it's a different time that we're living in." (35:16)
• Taking Creative Risks:
  • On seizing opportunities: "When an opportunity that sounds exciting to you comes about, you don't overthink it. You seize it immediately. ... Why regret? Why not?" (42:13, 42:45)
• Independence as an Artist:
  • Recent work on her album Retrospect is a result of years of creative ownership and producing on her terms, blending 70s/80s soul with contemporary hip hop (7:45, 62:27)

5. Career Milestones & Crossover Successes

• Lady Marmalade:
  • "A match made in heaven" — On collaborating with Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Pink, and Missy Elliott; recorded backgrounds together, leads separately (40:44–43:29)
  • Mya wasn’t thinking Grammy: "...this is for a film. How cool. Soundtracks. Oh, this video's gonna be amazing because movie money is a little bit different than music money." (43:37)
• Touchstone Collaborations:
  • On ODB and "Ghetto Superstar":
    "ODB heard my voice and said, 'That's the magic. That's the money. Who's that? Keep her.'" (58:33)
  • On Jay-Z and "Best of Me" remix:
    "Steve Stoute ... had all these relationships ... He and Jay-Z had a relationship ... The rest is history." (59:22)
• Iconic Fashion:
  • The legendary North Carolina basketball dress from the "Best of Me" remix video was designed by stylist June Ambrose.
  • "Do you have it?" — "I do, yes. And I have renditions of it too, that I'll wear for live performances." (62:02)

6. Artistic Maturity and New Album: Retrospect

• Inspiration:
  • Retrospect was influenced by Mya’s childhood living room playlists, built for joy during the pandemic, with party moods and funk/soul roots (63:09–63:59)
  • "This is my childhood wrapped in one project." (67:37)
• Homage to Upbringing:
  • "I transport and retreat to my living room where the touch and feel of vinyl, the needle to the wax were all experiences ... pure joy." (66:18)
• Embracing Musical Honesty:
  • "I like the rawness of the younger generation ... I admire that because I'm too meticulous." (65:18–65:48)

7. Reflections on Resilience, Mentorship, and Legacy

• On Peer Influence:
  • Usher was a peer who stood out, especially for technical excellence and stage confidence as a teen (44:32–45:42).
• On Handling Nerves:
  • Performance nerves are always present, especially with live TV. "When it's in front of an arena crowd ... I get so nervous ... when something is airing live because there's no room for mistakes." (46:11)
• On Dancing with the Stars:
  • Mya and Danielle commiserate over brutal Argentine tango rehearsals: "My legs were black, blue, purple from bruising. And I loved it … I was so impressed." (47:58–48:51)
• On Mentorship and the Next Generation:
  • "Mentors are very important ... The arts … teach teamwork ... you just go for it ... you actually get to be better the next time." (35:29, 42:13–43:10)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On striking out in music at a young age:
  "The record deal happened in the midst of my first year of college ... this is a shot that I might not get again, so let's go for it." – Mya (18:25)
• On stage persona:
  "I was very quiet. I was an observer. Still am. Until it was time." – Mya (20:44)
• On 'Lady Marmalade':
  "We laid our backgrounds together in California one day, and then we cut our lead separately. But I was a fan of everyone, including the producers. So it was a match made in heaven." – Mya (41:37)
• On ODB’s infamous TRL comment:
  "He said nothing. Straight to the camera." (27:44)
• On music's generational impact:
  "He [my dad] held my hand when Brandy started singing 'Have You Ever?' I'm like, oh, the power of music ... that was so special for me and it being from my generation." (54:12–54:45)
• On her feature on "Ghetto Superstar":
  "ODB heard my voice and said, that's the magic. That's the money … that's why my voice was on 'Ghetto Superstar.'" (58:33)
• On the iconic blue basketball dress:
  "That was styled and thought of ... by June Ambrose, a legendary, iconic stylist ... I have it. And I have renditions of it too, that I'll wear for live performances." (60:46–62:02)
• On personal growth:
  "You might suck at something first, but if you have a little bit of resilience ... you might just get good at it or be great one day. Just hang in there." (43:03)
• On artistic honesty:
  "I like the rawness of the younger generation ... there's a bit of freedom that's stripped ... when things are overworked. Or too refined." (65:19)
• On the essence of Retrospect:
  "What happened in my living room as a kid was just pure joy ... this is my childhood wrapped in one project." (66:18, 67:37)

---

Key Timestamps

| Segment | Time | |--------------------------|------------| | Welcome & R&B Intro | 04:33 | | Mya's Music Upbringing | 17:03 | | Take Me There/Rugrats | 08:29 | | Producers that Inspired | 12:03 | | Broadway/Stage Dreams | 18:13 | | High School Anecdotes | 21:07 | | Managing Fame/TRL Stories | 26:43 | | Lady Marmalade Backstory | 40:44 | | On ODB Ghetto Superstar | 55:04 | | Jay-Z "Best of Me" Story | 59:07 | | North Carolina Dress | 60:46 | | 'Retrospect' Origins | 62:27 | | 70s/80s Soul Influence | 66:00 | | Wrap-up/Closing | 67:45 |

---

Final Notes

• Mya’s journey from a shy, multi-talented D.C. kid to an industry veteran is one of resilience and reinvention, grounded by family and a love of true artistry.
• She embraces the new generation’s honesty in music while staying true to her own roots.
• Mya’s latest project, Retrospect, is a personal ode to her influences, family, and creative past — a perfect listen for old-school and new fans alike.

---

For more stories (and a bonus confessional!), check out the extended Friday episode and support Mya by streaming Retrospect and visiting her website: mayamya.com.

---

Transcript

[Maya]

This is an I Heart podcast. Guaranteed human.

[Bowen Yang]

This is Bowen Yang from Lost Culture Research with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang. We all know the feeling when life gets really busy.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Taking care of yourself can feel impossible. That's why Premier Protein shakes are my go to. They have 30 grams of protein, 160

[Bowen Yang]

calories, no added sugar, and they taste amazing.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

So they're a healthy choice you'll actually want to make.

[Bowen Yang]

It's not just for fitness, it's for getting after life.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

30 grams of protein give you the fuel you need. It's not just for intense gym sessions, it's just for life. With the wide variety of flavors, from

[Bowen Yang]

cafe latte to cake batter, it never feels boring.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

There's a flavor for everyone.

[Bowen Yang]

I personally love the peaches and cream,

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

but maybe you're a root beer floater

[Bowen Yang]

cinnamon roll kind of person.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Premier Protein powers me to say yes to more. Find your favorite [e-mail] that's P R E M I E R protein.com or at Amazon, Walmart and other major retailers.

[Kohler Ambassador]

When Kohler, global design leader and luxurious kitchen and bath products, asked me to be their ambassador for timeless, elegant, durable cast iron, I said, I'm in. Soon after, I was in their Kohler, Wisconsin foundry watching molten iron, poured enamel applied by hand, and the beautiful finished pieces ready to ship. Since 1883, Kohler cast iron has been crafted by incredible artisans and and seeing it firsthand gave me a whole new appreciation for their craftsmanship. Now I am proud to lend my stamp of approval to my favorite Kohler cast iron products for their durability, beauty and enduring style. Shop my curated [e-mail] as the Kohler cast Iron Ambassador, I say long live cast Iron.

[Danielle Fishel]

Hey, it's Danielle Fishel and I love me some treats for real. It's my love language. All I'm looking for is something simple that tastes amazing. And that's why I love Johnny Pops. Simple ingredients, no artificial dyes. Absolutely delicious. Whether it's a quick snack for the kids or a sweet treat for yourself, which we all absolutely deserve, Johnny Pops are perfect. And there's a kind deed on every stick to encourage everyone to share a little kindness.

[Ryan Seacrest]

So.

[Danielle Fishel]

So next time you're in the freezer aisle, grab a box of Johnny Pops and feel great about what you're sharing. Johnny Pops A better pop for a better world.

[Skyrizi Spokesperson]

I love days like these at the pool, but my moderate to severe plaque psoriasis can sometimes take me out of the moment. I'm ready to make a splash with clearer skin. Thanks to Skyrizi risankizumab RZA Skyrizi is a prescription only injection for adults who are candidates for systemic or phototherapy. At four months, most people saw 90% clearer skin when measured from head to toe and many were even 100% plaque free. People also saw significant improvement in psoriasis, symptoms of pain, redness, itching and burning.

[Maya]

Don't use if allergic to Skyrizi. Serious allergic reactions, increased infections or lower ability to fight them may occur before treatment. Get checked for infections and tuberculosis. Tell your doctor about any flu like symptoms or vaccines.

[Skyrizi Spokesperson]

Now there's nothing on my skin thanks to Skyrizi and that means everything. Ask your doctor about Skyrizi, the number one dermatologist prescribed biologic and psoriasis. Visit skyrizi.com or call 1-866-Skyrizi to learn more.

[CarMax Spokesperson]

Do you want to find a stress free way to buy your next car? Start at CarMax and shop your way. If you want to browse with confidence, get pre qualified online with no impact on your credit score and shop cars within your budget. From luxury cars to family rides, CarMax has options for almost every price range, including more than 25,000 cars priced under $25,000. So hey, want to get started? Just head to CarMax.com for details and get pre qualified today. Want to drive Carmax?

[Interviewer/Host]

Give me money for cigarettes.

[Maya]

I'll never need your bed

[Interviewer/Host]

I stay

[Maya]

the night and one night be came two or three.

[Danielle Fishel]

Welcome back to Teen Beat. I am your host, Danielle Fishel, your guide for a weekly journey into awkward teenage years and embarrassing childhood stories that have somehow teamed up to create a powerhouse influence on who we are today. Every week I sit down with interesting people who've done interesting things in hopes of connecting in this commonality, knowing that the stories of our past have shaped our blueprints of today. And since I shared my youth with millions of TV viewers living in public from 12 to 19 years old, it's time to turn the tables. I see it like this. I gave you my childhood. It's time we hear yours. And guys, if I had my druthers, this podcast would be about one thing and one thing only. Something I'm already always talking about. No, not Boy Meets World, not the finicky nature of the Sneakers app, not even my local Topanga Mall. It would be about late 90s, early 2000s R&B. I could argue and convince just about anyone willing to listen that this was peak time for the genre, especially when it comes to strong, talented women who are still thriving in the industry. Mary J. Blige, Aaliyah, Brandi, Missy, Destiny's Child, swv, Alicia Keys, Ashanti, Monica, tlc, xscape, En Vogue, Faith Evans, Idina, Howard, Khalees. The list goes on and on. And my guest this week is a pivotal member of this sorority. She's a triple threat who as a child began her career in dance as a child prodigy of sorts, focusing on ballet, jazz and tap dance, a style in which she'd studied under and later with Crispin Glover. But it was her voice that landed her an Interscope record deal in the mid to late 90s, resulting in her double platinum self titled debut featuring collaborations with Babyface, Diane Warren, Drew Hill, Silk, the Shocker, and Missy Elliott. And her song on the Bullworth soundtrack, ghetto Superstar, featuring Proz and the late Old Dirty Bastard, earned her a Grammy nomination in the best rap performance by a duo or group category. But come on, it was her second album. Also platinum 1999's Fear of Flying and the single Case of the X that real heads know is the Jam. Come on that song. And soon after, she'd be forever immortalized as part of the Grammy winning Moulin Rouge posse. Cut Lady Marmalade with Christina Aguilera, Lil Kim, Pink, and Missy, a track that my kids kids kids will still be blasting. And don't even get me started on how good she made a Rugrat song. And she's nowhere near done. Her tenth studio album, Retrospect, was just independently released, marking a new journey for the singer. And it features Snoop Dogg, too short and 21 savage, just to name a few of the guests. But the real standout is her now creating on her own terms as a veteran in the game with a sound influenced by 70s and 80s soul mixed with modern day hip hop roots. I am honored to welcome my former 21 hottest stars under 21 partner in a 1999 issue of Teen People. Maya. Hey there.

[Interviewer/Host]

Hi.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Good to see you.

[Danielle Fishel]

Good to see you. It's only been four years. We're 25 now, right? Yeah, we're about there.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Exactly.

[Danielle Fishel]

So good to see you. This really does feel like a reunion of a Teen People shoot. My goodness, I remember seeing that picture the for the first time and thinking, was that, was that the best picture of me they could find? I look very much like a deer in headlights.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I'm like, you were not the only one because I was thinking the exact same thing.

[Danielle Fishel]

You didn't like it of you either?

[Maya]

No, I didn't.

[Danielle Fishel]

I thought, I think we're cuter than this but, you know, listen, I'm just happy to have had the honor of standing next to you and what.

[Interviewer/Host]

What?

[Danielle Fishel]

We had a lot of those, you know, so much fun. We have so much to talk about, but there's really only one place I want to start, and that's with Take Me There, a song for the Rugrats movie that has no right being as good as it is. Can you tell me how that song came together?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

You know, some things you just have no clue about. You just show up and go.

[Maya]

But I was in the studio with Teddy Riley creating that song, actually recording that song, because it was actually written already when I walked in specifically for the soundtrack. We did cut it here in la.

[Danielle Fishel]

Really?

[Maya]

Yes. But I was not in the studio with Black street or Mace.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Maya]

And I did, however, get to work with the iconic producer himself, Teddy riley.

[Danielle Fishel]

Riley.

[Maya]

In 1998, which was the very first year I hit the scene. So.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah. So you're like, oh, this is a

[Danielle Fishel]

great way to enter what is going to be the entire rest of your career.

[Maya]

Well, you're not thinking that way. You're just kind of, like, going through

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

the motions and learning as you go in new territory.

[CarMax Spokesperson]

Yes.

[Maya]

But it was awesome. I learned that night that he was also a Libra. Oh, I'm a Libra as well.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay. And you guys connected over that.

[Maya]

He works very similar to myself.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Maya]

It's very quiet until it's showtime, and

[Danielle Fishel]

then it's time to go. That's actually one of the things I want to talk to you about, but I want specifically for this song, when you first hear it and they're spelling out Rugrats, are you like, what the is this? Or do you right away love it?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So I have a baby brother. We're 12 years apart. I already knew what Rugrats was.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

Okay.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

And that's actually when he became my fan because, yeah, he's like, I get it.

[Interviewer/Host]

Now you're doing Rugrats music.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yes, I get it. Yeah. He didn't really care about his sister before then, but I always loved Angelica the character, so I was so ecstatic to be a part of the soundtrack.

[Interviewer/Host]

So cool.

[Danielle Fishel]

And the music video, I feel like an entire generation is connected to the song and the visuals. I'm sorry. I could literally make a whole podcast just about Take me there. Do you have any memories from the video shoot?

[Maya]

I do. So Jamie King, the iconic choreographer, he's worked with Madonna, Janet Jackson, and so on. He puts tours together. I remember he choreographed this video.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Okay.

[Maya]

And I learned the choreography the night before, coming in from somewhere in Europe. And the next day we were on set.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

It was just so fake fast.

[Danielle Fishel]

I'm gonna need you to teach me that xylophone part.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

That was actually a freestyle.

[Maya]

Was it? Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

That's my favorite part.

[Interviewer/Host]

So congratulations to you. No offense, Jamie King, but your little xylophone number is something special.

[Maya]

Do you remember the movie Big?

[Parent or Family Member]

Yes.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yes.

[Danielle Fishel]

That was your mom. That was what was in your head.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah.

[Interviewer/Host]

Your big moment.

[Maya]

I love it.

[Danielle Fishel]

I mean, Teddy Riley, as you mentioned, he is a legendary producer, one of the many that you've work. While I was researching, I was just counting up the superstars you have collaborated with. Check out this list. It might be the best list out there. Swizz Beats, Babyface, Missy, Wyclef, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Timbaland, Rockwilder, Tricky Stewart, Rodney Jerkins and Scott Storch. And that's truly just a tease of your entire roster. So I'm gonna put you on the spot a little bit here. Who blew you away the most from a producer standpoint?

[Maya]

Oh, my goodness. Well, Tricky Stewart, he is an instrumentalist. He knows how to play instruments, and I've watched him on the keys. But it's also a tie between Wyclef because he's a guitarist.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Maya]

And I see it happen in real time. I get to watch them actually create from nothing, which is magic. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

Seeing there be nothing, truly nothing. And then someone go, I have an idea. And then to be able to with their body, bring it into, like, fruition. It's magical.

[Maya]

Yeah. And Wyclef is also a performer, so he has all of that experience on stage.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

And he's so spontaneous. He's also a comedian.

[Interviewer/Host]

Right. Okay.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

He brings it to his creation of music. And just being in the studio is electric.

[Interviewer/Host]

Right. I bet.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Lots of good stories, backstories.

[Danielle Fishel]

Is there a producer out there that you haven't worked with yet that you're still dying to work with?

[Maya]

Well, he's not with us anymore, but I'd always wanted to work with Quincy Jones. And still, even though I have a song on my very first album that Babyface produced, I didn't actually get to meet him. Oh, okay. During that process. So I would really like to work with Baby Face. Okay.

[Danielle Fishel]

Let's manifest that for you. Yes, I love that.

[Bowen Yang]

This is Bowen Yang from Lost Culture Research with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang. We all know the feeling when life gets really busy.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Taking care of yourself can feel impossible. That's why Premier protein shakes are my go to. They have 30 grams of protein, 160

[Bowen Yang]

calories, no added sugar, and they taste amazing.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

So they're a healthy choice you'll actually want to make.

[Bowen Yang]

It's not just for fitness, it's for getting after life.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

The 30 grams of protein gives you the fuel you need. It's not just for intense gym sessions, it's just with the wide variety of flavors from cafe latte to cake batter,

[Bowen Yang]

it never feels boring.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

It's a flavor for everyone.

[Bowen Yang]

I personally love the peaches and cream,

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

but maybe you're a root beer floater

[Bowen Yang]

cinnamon roll kind of person.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Premier Protein empowers me to say yes to more Find your favorite [e-mail] that's P R E M I E R protein.com or at Amazon, Walmart and other major retailers.

[Danielle Fishel]

Hi, it's Danielle Fishel, podcaster, actor and treat connoisseur. As someone who takes snacks seriously, a good frozen treat has to be delicious, fun, and something I feel great about sharing with my four and six year olds. That's why I love Johnny Pops. Simple ingredients, no artificial dyes and flavors for the whole family. From organic rainbow to chocolate dipped strawberry to organic unicorn twist. And every stick has a kind deed on it, encouraging all of us to spread the love. So next time you're in the freezer aisle, grab a box of Johnny Pops. Thank me later. Johnny Pops. A better Pop for a Better world

[Kal Penn]

hey everyone, it's Kal Penn. I'm the host of Irsay The Audible and iHeart Audiobook Club. This week on the podcast, I am sitting down with Ray Porter, the narrator of Andy Weir's audiobook project, Hail Mary Massive Sci fi adventure about survival and science and what happens when you wake up alone, very far from Earth.

[Ray Porter]

I really had to make a decision because I caught myself getting that frog in my throat and starting to get teary as I'm narrating some of these sections and it's like, okay, yo yo yo, is this indulgent? And I really thought about it. I was like, no. At this point it would kind of be betraying the trust the author and the listener have in telling this story if I don't go through it. There's places in this book that that deeply, emotionally affected me and I left it on the mic. That's great because it served the story. People will say like, oh my God, I cried at the end. It's like, yeah dude, me too.

[Kal Penn]

Listen to Hearsay the Audible and iHeart audiobook club on the iHeartradio app or wherever you get your podcasts Are you

[Interviewer/Host]

really buying a car online on Autotrader right now?

[Parent or Family Member]

Really? I can get super specific with dealer listings and see cars based on my Bud.

[Interviewer/Host]

You can really have it delivered or pick it up. I think kid is walking up the slide.

[Danielle Fishel]

Really?

[Parent or Family Member]

Auto trader. Buy your car online. Really?

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey there, it's Ryan Seacrest for Safeway for you. Save days are here now through June 25th. Find hot deals throughout the store and earn four times a point. Look for in store tags to earn on eligible items from Triscuit, Quaker Reese's and Dot's Pretzels. Then clip the offer in the app for automatic event long savings. Stack up those rewards to save even more. Enjoy savings on top of savings when you shop in store or online for easy, easy pickup or delivery restrictions apply. See the website for full terms and conditions.

[Danielle Fishel]

Let's talk a little bit about Maya in dc. Your dad was in a band, Jump Street. So were you always surrounded by music?

[Maya]

Always. Since I was born. I had a baby picture.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

She can share it with the publicist.

[Maya]

I was obviously in Pampers and my mom is teaching me how to play piano. Her dad orchestrated for orchestras. He wrote all of the sheet music for every instrument in an orchestra by hand. Composer, classic pianist. But yeah, there were always instruments in our house. My dad is a singer, the leader of his band always, since he was

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

about 16, 17 and it was an electric living room, you know, and so much rich music.

[Danielle Fishel]

You started dancing at a very young age, but you also played violin and obviously you sing. It was like you were a musical. Bo Jackson, how did you choose which avenue you wanted to pursue?

[Maya]

It was actually Broadway for me.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yes.

[Maya]

I was going to college after high

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

school, University of Maryland, College Park. The goal was eventually to go to Juilliard at some point in New York

[Maya]

and pursue Broadway because I love to do so many things. But the record deal happened in the midst of my first year of college and I'd been recording demos, taking the train back and forth to Philadelphia from D.C. d.C. Yeah, two hours and had to make a choice because there was investment being put up and there was a label that was interested. I said, well, this is a shot that I might not get again, so let's go for it. College is always there, correct?

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah, seize it. Seize that chance. Like I said, we did a photo shoot together in the late 90s and you are a very sweet, relatively soft spoken person, but musically you have always commanded such a presence on stage. You are anything but shy there. Is that how you've always been? Is that your Libra. Libra personality.

[Maya]

Yes. So my parents are polar opposite.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Maya]

But they're both Libras. And I'm the even balanced 1010 Libra

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

who was born October 10th.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

The perfect amount of my dad.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

To survive this business is in me.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Maya]

The perfect amount of my mom to survive this business and be super creative. Okay. My dad is the performer. She's the artist, but she's also the accountant. She's sewn my costumes. She's so great with organization. My dad, not so much.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Right, right, right.

[Maya]

But he's the creator and understands spending and investment and, you know, aesthetics. Yeah.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Wow.

[Danielle Fishel]

You really had a perfect.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

All of these things.

[Danielle Fishel]

All perfect mix of both of your parents. And you're right. You need both sides to make it.

[Maya]

Yes.

[Danielle Fishel]

In this industry.

[Maya]

Yes.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So what was the question?

[Danielle Fishel]

It was, what were you like as a kid? Were you.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Well, it depends on the environment because

[Maya]

I grew up with brothers. My dad raised me a little rough around the edges. I was a bit of a tomboy. We played tag football, tackle football, grass stains on the knees. I was very athletic.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah.

[Maya]

Just kind of whatever, huh?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah, yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

You were just thrown into dirt. Yeah.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Whatever it was.

[Maya]

I was very active. Then there were the activities that I was placed in, thankfully, summer camps and all the things majorettes. But I was very quiet. I was an observer. Still am. Until it was time.

[Danielle Fishel]

Right.

[Maya]

Not to be.

[Interviewer/Host]

And then.

[Maya]

But I was loud when I was a kid. As far as playtime. Okay. Is concerned, I was tomboy.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Danielle Fishel]

I love that you were a high school senior at only 16 years old. And it wasn't that long after that that you would be on trl. So what was high school like for you?

[Pedigree Spokesperson]

Yeah.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I was the quiet girl until about

[Maya]

my junior or senior year.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Okay.

[Maya]

I became the captain of the dance team.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yes.

[Maya]

Along with another girl named Nessa.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Maya]

And, you know, we were leaders. But I also had my very first job in high school at 14. Okay. As a dance teacher. Yeah. Outside of school. So I was very disciplined, very focused and driven. Did a lot of shopping.

[Interviewer/Host]

Oh.

[Maya]

And so my identity, you know, came about. I got my nose pierced illegally with a fake ID. Oh, my 16.

[Danielle Fishel]

Where'd you get the fake ID?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

At the mall.

[Maya]

At the mall. One of those kiosks I love.

[Danielle Fishel]

The mall had a kiosk for fake IDs.

[Maya]

Well, for nose piercings.

[Danielle Fishel]

Oh, for nose piercings.

[Maya]

I don't know who. Yes, I do know who gave me the hookup.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

One of my male friends in high school.

[Maya]

He said, I can get you A

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

fake id, but, yeah, I got it.

[Maya]

I showed my id, you know.

[Danielle Fishel]

What did your parents think about the nose piercing?

[Maya]

Well, they thought it was fake because I'm a wimp when it comes to needles.

[Danielle Fishel]

So they were like, there's no way she would do that. And did you just let that go? Oh, yeah, it's fake.

[Maya]

Like, no, I said, no, it's real. They were disappointed at first. They said, why would you do that to your face? Your career. I said, it'll be fine, you know,

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

and look at you now.

[Interviewer/Host]

It's like such an iconic part of who you are.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I guess I was a little rebellious back then. Just trying to find my own.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Yes.

[Maya]

Identity.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Listen, individuality is.

[Danielle Fishel]

I got my belly button pierced at 15 and it was. I'd still have it today if it were up to me, but I've had it beaten out of me by.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I've always wanted one.

[Interviewer/Host]

Really?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

Oh, it's so funny. What's stopping you now?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

It's never too late.

[Interviewer/Host]

Never too late. Yeah, never too late.

[Danielle Fishel]

On weekends, you were studying with Crispin Glover with your own solo in a Kennedy center performance. And you were on BET's Teen Summit. Were you in any way still able to live a normal teenager's life? I know you got your nose pierced at the mall and taught dance classes, but once it really started happening for you and you were performing for crowds, were you able to feel like you had a normal teenage life?

[Maya]

Yeah, I think so.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Maya]

I was a country girl. I rode dirt bikes and go karts and all of the things.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So we definitely had a great life

[Maya]

as kids and teenagers. It was busy, but I loved it because it was a bit of independency as well as seeing a chick name

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

on it, you know, every few weeks.

[Maya]

It was great.

[Danielle Fishel]

What was the first thing you splurged on and treated yourself to?

[Maya]

It was always clothes and shoes. I would always be at the mall, you know, and it was literally an investment for my performances because I was tap dancing solo and becoming this the girl that I wanted to be. Right at that time, it was around 15 or 16, so it still had something to do with business.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah. Back then, I think we also got to use it as a write off. You could buy clothes and be like, I need this for performance. Now that they don't even let you write it off anymore.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Well, that was before the record deal. Oh, okay. We didn't have the business established then. This was just me in high school, you know, with my first job, just

[Danielle Fishel]

thinking, this is business.

[Maya]

Business and the reasoning behind that is because, you know, we always had hand me down clothes, or my mom would go to the thrift store and repurpose things. She would upcycle, or she would actually make our clothes, and we hated them because they weren't like the name brand

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

clothes that all the cool kids were wearing. And we got teased for everything.

[Maya]

But when I found that independence, I got to choose what I was going to wear. But I was also an artist, just like herself, sketching designs and all of these things and bringing those things to life. She.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

She sewed my prom dress that I designed.

[Danielle Fishel]

Really?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah. So those are the first things that

[Maya]

I would spend with my own money.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Maya]

Now, when the advance came for the record deal, I invested in equipment because I've always wanted to record harmonies. I was always fascinated with layering. Okay. My voice and different notes, and I

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

would flip karaoke tapes and cassettes over

[Maya]

and over and again, and the quality was just awful. So that's the first thing that I did.

[Danielle Fishel]

Equipment. Investing in yourself again. Everything you're saying. I keep hearing that perfect mix of your dad and your mom. You know, you're like, this is an expense, but it's an investment in myself as well, and it'll allow me to create.

[Maya]

Yeah. So fun. It wasn't even investment to me. I just wanted to do it.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah, yeah. Like a toy.

[Maya]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

But for fun. And. And your career. So bet 106 and park and TRL were both so pivotal in your career. I don't mean to sound like an old lady here, but I don't think people realize how great of a time that was to be a part of. Maya could be doing the first segment, and then Korn was premiering a video immediately after. Did you like doing those shows?

[Maya]

Absolutely. There was a live audience, and there's nothing like that. You know, give and receive. The exchange, the energy. Seeing Times Square outside of the windows and the fans and the supporters. It's electric when you're just a spectator watching at home on the tube, but when you're there, it's a whole other world. It's awesome.

[Danielle Fishel]

Do you have any memorable stories from a trl?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yes, it went viral a couple of years ago. Odb.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Maya]

Praz and I. I'm not sure if Wyclef was there. Okay, he may have been, but we were all on the couch being interviewed for the Ghetto superstar record.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah, ODB was a very honest guy.

[Maya]

And I think the question that was

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

asked was, what would you like your legacy to be?

[Maya]

Or how would you Give back to your community. What it is. What is it that you would like to give back?

[Danielle Fishel]

Uh huh.

[Maya]

He said nothing straight to the camera.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I'm just saying what. Okay, well, maybe that's the honest answer here.

[Interviewer/Host]

Did you say anything?

Did you?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Like we just all burst out laughing. All of us. The host, the audience, everyone on that couch.

[Interviewer/Host]

Nothing.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I mean, it wasn't even nicely said. Nothing. That's how he said. Said it. Not followed up by a laugh or anything.

[Maya]

Just not.

[Interviewer/Host]

Oh my gosh, I love it so much. I found a clip online of Carson Daly's birthday special where you.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Was that TRL or was a birthday special?

[Interviewer/Host]

I don't think it was trl.

[Maya]

Mtv, maybe?

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah, it was mtv. Yes. And you are giving him a lap dance during the final credits. Nikki Hilton is there, Jessica Simpson is with Nick Lachey, and Sarah Silverman is on Jimmy Kimmel's lap. It is so wildly Y2K. Do you remember that taping at all?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I remember clearly and I remember all the reactions and the faces. I don't know if they edited it to be that way, but I mean, the jaws dropped.

[Interviewer/Host]

Jaws were on the floor.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

That was the My love is like, whoa, yes.

[Maya]

Cocky era.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Just very overly sexy and cocky of a record that Missy Elliott wrote, by the way.

[Maya]

So of course it would be.

[Interviewer/Host]

Of course.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

But yeah, that was, I think, a shocking moment for myself, but so great. I said, this is not gonna happen again.

[Maya]

Cause I'm not gonna be able to

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

fit these shorts ever again. So why don't you enjoy it while you can?

[Interviewer/Host]

Do it while you can. I also stumbled upon a picture from

[Danielle Fishel]

the 2001 MTV Janet Jackson tribute, which. And the photo is you, Busta Rhymes, Pink Tyreese, Stevie Wonder, and Aaliyah, which is quite the lineup. But it also got me thinking about your interactions with Aaliyah, who would tragically die just a few months after that photo was taken. Did you get to know her at all? Did you have a relationship with her?

[Maya]

We'd done a couple of different shows together. We were just always crossing in workplaces. And we'd done a photo shoot in New York. There were individual photo shoots. I think they were called fanzines.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Maya]

At the time, where you do several, you know, outlets at once in one place. Lots of hair magazines, et cetera. And, you know, we kicked it. But we never had, like, a very close relationship. It was more so a work associate out of respect, you know, very friendly at all times. Cordial. Yeah, yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

So you signed to interscope records at 19 pretty quickly, right? Out of high school, what is it like going from Maryland to the very fast paced music business, recording that first album, especially because so much of your life had been focused on dance, not necessarily becoming a pop, R and B sensation. So what was that transition like from high school to Interscope?

[Parent or Family Member]

Deal?

[Maya]

Well, I was actually in the orchestra and choir. Gospel choir.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay, so you. So singing was always.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah, singing was always there, but it

[Maya]

was more so done in, like, plays or a Broadway.

[Danielle Fishel]

Right, Like Broadway idea. Yeah.

[Maya]

Capacity. So, you know, the recording artist thing was unexpected.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

And of course, you know, I knew that I could execute it because of the entertainment value and entertainer was always the goal in mind. Some of the inspirations were Gregory Hines, who I'd seen live when I was about 10 years old on Broadway and got to train with him and dance with him. But Sammy Davis Jr singing, acting, dancing, just personalities and very nice, you know, very warm and welcoming spirits. So they were always in my living room, black and white films, et cetera. So I was always surrounded by music through my grandfather, my mom, my dad.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah.

[Maya]

And I was always doing something in choir or national anthems and talent shows. But the goal was never recording artists.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

Until my late later teens. Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

And so were your parents involved in your career still at that time? Like when you signed to Interscope, are your parents actively involved in it?

[Maya]

Yes.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So it's really wild.

[Maya]

As I was in high school, going into college, I'd recorded demos, you know, in Philly. But prior to that, I recorded my very own first song, original of my own, and I was 15 years old. They invested in me to do that. That was actually shopped to the independent label that was in Washington, dc.

[Ray Porter]

Okay.

[Maya]

Who discovered me. And my parents were my managers at the time. My mom had experience running my dad's independent label called TMC Productions, where he'd recorded his own records for years, dressed up his own vinyl, took them to the radio station in our state. So they had all of the. The chops, you know, they knew what they were doing.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

Business in a very boutique way. But at the release of my very first single, they got divorced.

[Danielle Fishel]

Oh, oops. Wrench in the system.

[Odoo Spokesperson]

Yeah.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So that didn't work out.

[Maya]

And, you know, I found myself being managed by those that I didn't know. They were strangers. And, you know, divorces can be taxing. And so neither one of them were kind of capable at the time to. To really be engulfed in the business of Maya.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yes. And. And it is all encompassing, especially at the beginning when you're getting started and it's meetings and phone calls and appointments and. Yeah, when you're going through a divorce, guess what? There's not a lot of time for thinking about all of that stuff.

[Maya]

But my mom has always remained my accountant and watched the books since, so.

[Danielle Fishel]

Great. My mom was that person for me, too. And she was meticulous about it.

[Maya]

Yes.

[Danielle Fishel]

She was always so worried that I'd ever have a reason to suspect that something had been mismanaged. And so she kept every pay stub. I mean, just meticulous records of everything in case I ever needed it. I never needed it.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So important.

[Danielle Fishel]

But it is.

[Interviewer/Host]

We're lucky.

[Maya]

There are horror stories.

[Danielle Fishel]

True horror stories. Yes.

[Maya]

Very fortunate.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yes.

[Danielle Fishel]

You have somehow also been able to avoid being gossip fodder for nearly three decades. You've kept to yourself and you've honestly, you've lived a relatively private life. Let's say you were just starting out in 2026 and social media and content creation is so important. Do you think you could do it?

[Maya]

I think I could do it with the faith that I've been rooted in, in any timeline, any world. I think, of course, today would be a lot tougher, but I would, I would want a mentor for myself.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Maya]

That has walked this business and walked the shoes of an entertainer. Experience the highs, the lows and devastations to guide me and hold my hand along the way. Because it's a different time that we're living in with oversaturation and sensory overload and mental health awareness, I'd say is at the forefront, which is great because we didn't have those discussions back then, but I think my parents exposed me to so much for a long time. It instilled so many values, which is why I am a huge advocate of the arts and sports or any programs for, for youth so that you can get through this thing called life, regardless of the time or the era. But yeah, I think mentors are very important.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah, you're absolutely right.

[Bowen Yang]

This is Bowen Yang from Lost Culture Resource with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang. We all know the feeling when life gets really busy.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Taking care of yourself can feel impossible. That's why premier protein shakes are my go to. They have 30 grams of prote, 160

[Bowen Yang]

calories, no added sugar, and they taste amazing.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

So they're a healthy choice you'll actually want to make. It's not just for fitness.

[Bowen Yang]

It's for getting after life.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

The 30 grams of protein gives you the fuel you need. It's not just for intense gym sessions. It's just for life. With the wide variety of flavors from

[Bowen Yang]

cafe latte to cake batter, it never feels boring.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

It's a flavor for everyone.

[Bowen Yang]

I personally love the peaches and cream,

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

but maybe you're a root beer floater

[Bowen Yang]

cinnamon roll kind of person.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Premier Protein Power me to say yes to more. Find your favorite [e-mail] that's P R E M I E R protein.com or at Amazon, Walmart and other major retailers.

[Danielle Fishel]

Hello, it's Danielle Fishel and I am here to talk treats. I take em serious and as you know, they can make or break a day. Whether you're looking for something on a hot afternoon, an after dinner treat, or just a little moment to make the day feel special, Johnny Pop's is such an easy family favorite. Johnny Pop's frozen treats are deliciously made with simple ingredients and no artificial dyes, which means I love sharing them with my four and six year olds. And the flavor options run the gamut. Organic rainbow fruit stacks, chocolate fudge minis, chocolate dipped strawberry, organic cotton candy, unicorn twist and even some no sugar added options. And one of my favorite things about Johnny Pops is that not only are they delicious, they're full of joy. Every stick has a kind deed printed on it and that small moment can turn snack time into a little reminder that kindness is king. Johnny Pops are available in all your favorite stores. To find the store nearest you, visit J O N N Y p o p s.com Johnny Pops a better Pop for a Better World

[Kal Penn]

hey everyone, it's Cal Penn. I'm the host of Irsay the Audible and I Heart Audiobook Club. This week on the podcast, I am sitting down with Ray Porter, the narrator of Andy Weir's audiobook project, Hail Mary Massive sci fi adventure about survival and science and what happens when you wake up alone, very far from Earth.

[Ray Porter]

I really had to make a decision because I caught myself getting that frog in my throat and starting to get teary as I'm narrating some of these sections and it's like, okay, yo yo yo, is this indulgent? And I really thought about it. I was like, no. At this point it would kind of be betraying the trust the author and the listener have in telling this story if I don't go through it. But there's places in this book that deeply, emotionally affected me and I left it on the mic. That's great because it served the story. People will say like oh my God, I cried at the end. It's like yeah dude, me too.

[Kal Penn]

Listen to Irsay, the Audible And I heart audiobook book Club on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Interviewer/Host]

Are you really buying a car online on autotrader right now?

[Parent or Family Member]

Really?

[Interviewer/Host]

At a playground?

[Parent or Family Member]

Yeah, really. Look at these listings from dealers.

[Interviewer/Host]

Wow, your search can really get that specific.

[Parent or Family Member]

Really?

[Interviewer/Host]

And you just put in your info and boom, car's in your budget.

[Parent or Family Member]

Mom needs a second. Honey.

[Interviewer/Host]

You can really have it delivered.

[Parent or Family Member]

Really? Or I can pick it up at the dealership. One second.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Bag, sweetie.

[Parent or Family Member]

Mommy's buying a car.

[Danielle Fishel]

Mommy, look.

[Interviewer/Host]

I think your kid is walking up the slide. Kyle.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Again?

[Parent or Family Member]

Really? Autotrader buyer, Car online. Really?

[Interviewer/Host]

Hey there.

[Ryan Seacrest]

It's Ryan Seacrest for Safeway for you. Save days are here now through June 25th. Find hot deals throughout the store and earn four times a point. Look for in store tags to earn on eligible items from Kinder, Ghost, Energy, Cottonelle, Ben and Jerry's, and Popsicle. Then clip the offer in the app for automatic event long savings. Stack up those rewards to save even more. Enjoy savings on top of savings. When you shop in store or online for easy pickup or delivery, restrictions apply. See the website for full terms and conditions.

[Danielle Fishel]

Let's get into Lady Marmalade. This obviously is just Heavy Hitter Central, and you are all so talented. Do you remember the pitch for it and how did you find yourself on the song?

[Maya]

Yes. The managers that I had at the time, they were in touch with the record label Interscope, and they mentioned it without too many details. I was familiar with the song, of course, and of course the names. I just. I said, yes, of course. I'm a fan of everyone, and I didn't think twice about it. And there we were laying our backgrounds together in California one day, and then we cut our lead separately. But I was a fan of everyone, including the producers. Yeah. So it was a match made in

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

heaven, and it was a lot of fun.

[Danielle Fishel]

I'm noticing a little theme with you that's so important, which is that when an opportunity that sounds exciting to you comes about, you don't overthink it. You seize it immediately. You go, hey, there's a record label right out of high school. This is unexpected. Yes. And Lady Marmalade. Yes. And it's really paid off for you, the trusting your instincts and trusting your gut. Is that something that your parents have nurtured in you? Is that something. Is trusting your intuition something that's important to you?

[Maya]

Yes. My parents have everything to do with that. I'd say there was a lot of fear and intimidation or insecurity in my childhood. Uncertainty. Okay. But the arts definitely taught me. Teamwork, of course, taught me that you just go for it. Yeah. You might make a mistake, you might fall in your face eight times in

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

front of the world or whoever's watching.

[Interviewer/Host]

Right.

[Maya]

But there's a lesson to be learned. You actually get to be better the next time. And you're not alone.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Right.

[Maya]

You know, so go for it. Why regret? Why not? So I've seen the improvement, and I think I've had opportunities that prove time and time again that, you know, you might suck at something first, but if you have a little bit of resilience

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

and perseverance and can take the criticism along the way. Yeah. You might just get good at it

[Maya]

or be great one day. Just hanging there. Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

So you all laid some of your tracks together. You did the independent, the solos separately.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yes.

[Danielle Fishel]

But Lady Marvel, you're all in the same room.

[Maya]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

Did you. Did it just feel special immediately? I find it hard to believe that it didn't sound like a Grammy winner from just the very first get go.

[Maya]

Well, I wasn't even thinking Grammy. I was honestly thinking, oh, this is for a film. How cool. Soundtracks.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Oh, this video's gonna be amazing because movie money is a little bit different

[Maya]

than music money, and I'm so excited for that. So I wasn't really thinking Grammy because I didn't even know at the time that songs on soundtracks could get me nominated for Grammys, you know?

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

I was still new.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah.

[Maya]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

So, yeah. That's so crazy that then being nominated for Grammy isn't even yet, which makes sense. You're thinking a movie. Movie, money, video, Grammys, like, the last thing on your mind. I had mentioned your class of R and B singers from the late 90s, early 2000s, and it is stacked in with talent. Who impressed you? Was there anyone that you were, like, a big fan of from your peer group?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Of course. I have to think about this.

[Maya]

From my peer group.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Oh, yeah.

[Maya]

Usher.

[Odoo Spokesperson]

Yeah.

[Maya]

I'd work with Usher for the Michael Jackson 30th anniversary tribute.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yep.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Maya]

And he's just very focused. He's also a Libra.

[Danielle Fishel]

Libra.

[Maya]

Libra.

[Danielle Fishel]

Have such a special place in your life.

[Maya]

Yeah. My production partner for this new album is a Libra. Snoop is a Libra. Like, there are a lot of folks.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

21. Savage is a Libra.

[Maya]

Libras and I work so well together. Lots of creative energy. But yeah. Yes.

[Danielle Fishel]

Usher is a great one.

[Maya]

So Usher.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah.

[Maya]

I thought he was very focused, driven. He was so young when he stepped into this business. Probably about 14.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

Maybe even younger when he recorded his first album. And growing up in front of the world. Yeah. But of course, cardio dancing and singing are two different types of breath work, and he mastered that so young. And to see him in rehearsals, but also see him perform at Madison Square Garden with no fear, like, yay. Like, we're the same age.

[Kal Penn]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

So I was highly impressed. Michael Jackson was in the room.

[Bobcat Spokesperson]

Really?

[Maya]

During our rehearsals. Whitney Houston was there. Oh, my gosh.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Timid. And yes, you're just having a ball. So I was so impressed with his free energy.

[Danielle Fishel]

So do you think when you perform. Because no one would ever think you're nervous watching you perform. Do you. Are you putting on a character in order to be able to do it? Are you nervous inside?

[Maya]

I think we all are a bit nervous because so many things can go wrong. And when it's in front of an arena crowd, something that's actually being taped or filmed or live, I get so nervous inside when something is airing live because there's no room for mistakes.

[Interviewer/Host]

Right.

[Danielle Fishel]

Gotta do it.

[Maya]

With millions watching Dancing with the Stars, was that every single week for me,

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

and I'm a dancer.

[Danielle Fishel]

I have absolutely no idea how you did not win Dancing with the Stars. Can we. Can we just for a moment talk about how you're the best dancer to have ever been on Dancing with the Stars? I'm saying it right now so you

[Maya]

can win in scores and points, which I did. But that doesn't matter. It's about, are you being voted for?

[Danielle Fishel]

Right.

[Maya]

Your fan base has to chime in if people think you're safe because you have high scores and, oh, you might technically be a good dancer. That's not what that show is about. It's about. Okay. Do the judges think so? Did you nail every component of technique and this hand and this finger placement

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

or whatever it is that they judge

[Maya]

timing and embodiment for that specific dance style, which I have no clue of, because you're literally learning a new style of dance every single week.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yep.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Not my forte or anyone's, for that

[Maya]

matter, but it's about all of those things, including the votes at the end of the day, which really counts.

[Interviewer/Host]

Are.

[Danielle Fishel]

Are the thing at the end of the day. That's the end. All be all. Did you have a favorite dance from Dancing with the Stars? Is there anything when you look back on your time, you think, I think that's my number one. I'm the most proud of that.

[Maya]

Yes. There was a very difficult dance on Dancing with the Stars that I'm most proud of because first by seeing it, I didn't think I could do it. It's so technical and it's actually so brutal because your partner and you are kicking each other most of the time until you're in team tango. Exactly. My legs were bl. Black, blue, purple from bruising. And I loved it. But when I saw the performance and like, I literally worked overtime to get it right because it was so difficult. So difficult. Looking back at it, I was so impressed.

[Odoo Spokesperson]

Yeah.

[Interviewer/Host]

You're like, I can't believe that's me.

[Maya]

And learning it in just one week and being lifted in the air.

[Kohler Ambassador]

Yes.

[Maya]

Yeah, it was a lot.

[Danielle Fishel]

Argentine tango was my favorite too. Absolutely loved it. Yes. Absolutely loved it. Same. Like, I remember watching videos of it and being like, I, I, I'm not gonna be able to do this. And the lifts and, and I also huge bruise on my hip from a couple of the, you know, lifts where you get swung around and you're just smacking your hip into each other. It's, it's, it's brutal. But it's my favorite one, my favorite performance. I did my everything about it. Loved it so much. So I.

[Maya]

There's so much strength in it too.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah, absolutely.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yep.

[Danielle Fishel]

You come away from that experience real ripped.

[Bowen Yang]

This is Bowen Yang from Lost Culture Resource with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang. We all know the feeling when life gets really busy.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Taking care of yourself can feel impossible. That's why Premier protein shakes are my go to. They have 30 grams of protein, 160

[Bowen Yang]

calories, no added sugar, and they taste amazing.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

So they're a healthy choice you'll actually want to make. It's not just for fitness.

[Bowen Yang]

It's for getting after life.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

30 grams of protein gives you the fuel you need. It's not just for intense gym sessions. It's just for life. With the wide variety of flavors from

[Bowen Yang]

cafe latte to cake batter, it never feels boring.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

There's a flavor for everyone.

[Bowen Yang]

I personally love the peaches and cream,

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

but maybe you're a root beer floater,

[Bowen Yang]

cinnamon roll kind of person.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Premier Protein empowers me to say yes to more. Find your favorite [e-mail] that's P R E M I E R- dot com. Or at Amazon, Walmart and other major retailers.

[Danielle Fishel]

Hey, it's Danielle Fishel and I love me some treats for real. It's my love language. All I'm looking for is something simple that tastes amazing. And that's why I love Johnny Pops. Simple ingredients, no artificial dyes. Absolutely delicious. Whether it's a quick snack for the kids or a sweet treat for yourself, which we all absolutely deserve, Johnny Pops are perfect. And there's a kind deed on every stick to encourage everyone to share a little kindness. So next time you're in the freezer aisle, grab a box of Johnny Pops and feel great about what you're sharing. Johnny Pops, a better Pop for a better world.

[Kal Penn]

Hey everyone, it's Kal Penn. I'm the host of Earsay, the Audible and iHeart Audiobook Club. This week on the podcast, I am sitting down with Ray Porter, the narrator of Andy Weir's audiobook project, Hail Mary Massive sci fi adventure about survival and science and what happens when you wake up alone, very far from Earth.

[Ray Porter]

I really had to make a decision because I caught myself getting that frog in my throat and starting to get teary as I'm narrating some of these sections. And it's like, okay, yo, yo, yo, is this indulgent? And I really thought about it. I was like, no. At this point it would kind of be betraying the trust the author and the listener have in telling this story if I don't go through it. But there's places in this book that that deeply, emotionally affected me and I left it on the mic. That's great because it served the story. People will say like, oh my God, I cried at the end. It's like, yeah, dude, me too.

[Kal Penn]

Listen to Irsay, the Audible and iHeart audiobook club on the iHeartradio app or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Interviewer/Host]

Are you really buying a car online on Autotrader right now?

[Parent or Family Member]

Really? I can get super specific with dealer listings and see cars based on my budget.

[Interviewer/Host]

You can really have it delivered or pick it up. I think kid is walking up the slide.

[Danielle Fishel]

Really?

[Parent or Family Member]

Auto trader Buy your car online. Really?

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey there, it's Ryan Seacrest for Safeway for you. Save days are here now through June 25th. Find hot deals throughout the store and earn four times the points. Look for in store tags to earn on eligible items from Triscuit, Quaker, Reese's and Dot's Pretzels. Then clip the offer in the app for automatic event long savings. Stack up those rewards to save even more. Enjoy savings on top of savings when you shop in store or online for easy pickup or delivery, restrictions apply. See the website for full terms and conditions.

[Danielle Fishel]

You Last year performed on some dates with Brandy and Monica and I have to think that was a blast. I can't believe I missed it. As someone who is also heavily associated with nostalgia Myself. Do you enjoy seeing these crowds who have grown up with you coming out to support you and sing along to every word with you?

[CarMax Spokesperson]

Yes.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

It's.

[Maya]

It's so special to be amongst your family.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yes, Literally.

[Interviewer/Host]

The peers. Our peers.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Your peers.

[Maya]

You know,

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

we speak the same language

[Maya]

and we've had lives that have been lived since we were teenagers. And the music that speaks to us, whether it would be core memories for some or where we are in our lives, because we're all still making music that resonates with our timeline now, and the world has changed so much, and we're still here holding each other down. So I loved it. I loved being a spectator, just listening to all the nostalgic songwriting compositions, the great music with bridges and modulations and wonderful lyrics. My dad and I sat front of house at one of the shows. I can't remember the city. I think it was actually Baltimore. Okay, okay. Which is, you know, close to where we're from. And he held my hand when Brandy started singing. Have you ever? I'm like, oh, the power of music. The power of music and lyrics. So that was so special for me and it being from my generation, you

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

know, because usually parents and grandparents kind of talk down on the generations under

[Maya]

them about the music that we're making, and it doesn't sound like real music anymore, you know, so for him to resonate with something from my age bracket was really great and an emotional song at that.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah, that's a beautiful moment. I want to talk a little bit about Ghetto Superstar. It's an infamous rumor that ODB was on the song because he was going door to door at the recording studio trying to force his way into songs.

[Maya]

Is that true? I've never heard that story.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay, so then I'm gonna check out. That is not true.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I don't know.

[Maya]

I've never heard that before.

[Interviewer/Host]

Really?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

It could be because he was very spontaneous.

[Odoo Spokesperson]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

Okay.

[Interviewer/Host]

All right. So not unsurprising for him to knock

[Danielle Fishel]

on the door and be like, I'm here. What can I do?

[Maya]

Uh huh.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I actually believe that.

[Interviewer/Host]

Really?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

You're like, I do believe that.

[Interviewer/Host]

Oh, that is so funny.

[Danielle Fishel]

Do you have any fun favorite experiences with him other than him saying nothing?

[Interviewer/Host]

He almost burned himself on pyro performing

[Danielle Fishel]

at the 1998 MTV VMAs. That must have been been traumatizing.

[Maya]

I'm not sure if pras pulled him back.

[Danielle Fishel]

I think so. Yeah.

[Maya]

Yeah. And I'm not sure if we rehearsed it at all.

[Parent or Family Member]

Really.

[Maya]

I can't remember. Or if he Was there during rehearsals, but that could have been a disaster.

[Danielle Fishel]

I mean, yes.

[Maya]

But thankfully nothing happened. My gosh.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Cues matter, which is why I'm so detail oriented. It's very analogous, but things like that

[Maya]

matter to know exactly what part of the song and going over it and over every time. So every person on that stage understands, you know, where they need to be markers on the stage.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I'm literally there making sure we have

[Maya]

a long strip of tape of where every prop goes, cutting them, placing them, where, you know, having the dancers in certain places. Because anything can happen at anything anytime. But, yeah, details matter.

[Danielle Fishel]

They really do. I just went on the Dancing with the Stars tour. I was there for a month, and we. It was very much the same way. You know, there's three sets of stairs and everyone's gotta walk and people are crossing. And you've got 12, 13 people dancing at the same time.

[Maya]

In heels.

[Danielle Fishel]

In heels, by the way, with fog, which makes the stage moist or half. You know, sometimes we were at amphitheaters where it was humid outside, and now you're like, watch out. Beads falling off of costumes and people dancing barefoot. The amount of beads lost dodged into bare feet while we were on tour. And those, you know, if you're not showing up for your cues and you can't see the tape when it's dark. Those things are important. These are people's bodies. And yeah, it all very important. So don't ever feel bad about being

[Interviewer/Host]

anal and being like, I'm here, taking notes.

[Danielle Fishel]

Very smart.

[Maya]

I will share this with you. ODB was responsible for my feature on Ghetto Superstar.

[Interviewer/Host]

Really?

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

I only had one song out in the Universe, which was all about me featuring Cisco, my debut single. In 1998, my dad and I took a train to New York, had a session with Wyclef Jean.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yes.

[Maya]

Laid down the chorus, and that was that. We didn't hear anything back, you know.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

I was asked to do the chorus, and it was the shortest session I probably ever had. To this day, there were several other singers that were established that recorded that chorus that were being considered because, you know, they had much bigger presence.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

And, yeah, I was just the new

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

girl on the block. Right.

[Interviewer/Host]

Right.

[Maya]

ODB heard my voice and said, that's the magic. That's the money. Who's that? Keep that.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Keep her.

[Maya]

Whoever that is. I'm telling you right now, it's her. Yeah. That's why

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

my voice was on Get a Superstar.

[Danielle Fishel]

Unbelievable.

[Maya]

Yeah, he convinced them so great.

[Danielle Fishel]

And what an ear. I mean, he's right. He's absolutely right.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Well, he may or may not be. Oh, no, we don't know.

[Danielle Fishel]

I'll say it. I'll say it. You don't have to say it. I'll say it.

[Interviewer/Host]

He's right. But it was written and that's the

[Danielle Fishel]

way it turned out.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

Pretty great. Your music has always included such great rap features. From Mace to Jadakiss to ODB to Jay Z on the Best of Me remix. How did that come together with Jay Z? Because he was flying very, very high at that time.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Yeah.

[Maya]

So on the record label side and Interscope, there's my independent company through Hak Islam University Music Entertainment. And then in marketing, there's like Steve Stout Advertising as well. And he had all of these relationships being that he's from New York, from Jadakiss to Jay Z and he would do some calling for features, etc. There were a lot of remixes that happened around that time too. So he and Jay Z had a relationship and he may have actually called the producers track masters who are legends in hip hop to create the new track for the remix as well. And the rest is history. Jeez.

[Danielle Fishel]

Isn't it funny? It's just like knowing the right person who knows the right people who get the inspiration at the right time.

[Maya]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

And the next thing you know, history is. Has been made. Well, Hype Williams. The Hype Williams video brought us the iconic North Carolina baby blue basketball dress. Just an all timer. Tell me all about that dress. Where did it come from? Did you design it? Did your mom design it? Did you know how big of a deal it was going to become? Were you offered Tar Heel tickets for life? Where is it now? Can I put it under glass? What? Tell me everything about that dress.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Oh, my goodness.

[Maya]

Well, the North Carolina jersey dress from the Best of Me remix video. We call it part two, by the way.

[Interviewer/Host]

Okay.

[Maya]

That was styled and thought of and manifested by June Ambrose, a legendary, iconic stylist. You know, fashionista.

[Parent or Family Member]

Yes.

[Maya]

Yes. She was doing so many artists at that time in hip hop and R B that created this whole aesthetic during that time. It was the Mary J. Bliges of the world. A lot of artists that were on Bad boy Fashion was a big thing.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

In hip hop and R B culture during the early 90s till I came into Equation into the 2000s to this day. And she was a part of that. So her iconic mind came up with the idea of turning something just so sporty and casual to. For the woman in a dress form. Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

And perfect for you who grew Up. Such a tomboy. And I mean, just so perfect for you. Where is it today? Do you have it?

[Maya]

I do, yes. And I have renditions of it too, that I'll wear for live performances.

[Danielle Fishel]

So great. Oh, so great. Your new album, Retrospect is wonderful. It is a really evolved, unique sound. And it's been a while since you've released an album, so why now? What was it about now that spoke to you?

[Maya]

Well, if I could release an album every year, it would be now.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yeah.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Okay.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So what I do is release lots

[Maya]

and lots of singles in between projects. And my Last one was TKO in 2018. And pandemic happened while we were actually crafting other projects and singles as well as putting them into the universe. But that time, that uncertain time in all of our lives was the confirmation to continue the thought of this project that started in 2003, really, with a Rick James cover on my Motoring album.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

So this is my living room on retrospect.

[Maya]

A lot of these sounds, especially for the first half of the album, which is very celebratory, pick me up moods and in party moods. That's how my living room sounded. And that's the music that I would craft in my playlist during the Pandemic. And I was instantly brought joy, like the environment and my frequency. My vibe shifted.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

To an uncertain place. Doubtful place. To joy. And I said, yeah, we have to do this. This is the direction we're going. No if, ands or buts about it. And that's how Retrospect was finished. Because the very first song on this project I cut in 2016 because I heard the music happening across the hall

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

while I was working on another album.

[Maya]

Wow.

[Danielle Fishel]

And you went across and you were like, what is that?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

What's that?

[Maya]

Who does that belong to? Oh, no one. Okay, give me a copy now. And I wrote the song that night. Really? Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

Wow. So this has been. I mean, you mentioned 2003, so 23 years in the making, but also the first song 10 years ago, special place in your heart. Getting 21 Savage on the ASAP was a big deal. Are you a fan of new hip hop?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

I am. I kind of like it all.

[Parent or Family Member]

Yeah.

[Maya]

It has its place in my life.

[Interviewer/Host]

Life.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

There are certain things I don't listen to on Sundays.

[Danielle Fishel]

Huh? Right.

[Maya]

There are lots of things I do

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

listen to that I don't listen to on Sundays. In the gym.

[Interviewer/Host]

Right.

[Danielle Fishel]

There you go. Everything has its place.

[Ray Porter]

I love it.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yes.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Because I need to get in beast mode.

[Maya]

So I love all the sub genres of R B sub genres of hip hop. It's really interesting to see how the new kids and the younger kids are expressing themselves.

[Domino's Spokesperson]

Yeah.

[Maya]

I just love honesty and we grow as human beings. But it's not for me to talk down on. I like the transparency that the kids are going for nowadays. And there's like not a care in the world. It doesn't have to be perfect anymore.

[Danielle Fishel]

Right.

[Maya]

I come from a specific era where everything just had to be too perfect. And so there's a bit of freedom that's stripped. Or honesty. Sometimes that's stripped when things are overworked. Yeah. Or too refined. And I love the rawness of today, even if it's not necessarily what I can relate to.

[Danielle Fishel]

Right.

[Maya]

I like the rawness of the younger generation.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

Like, I admire that because I'm too meticulous.

[Danielle Fishel]

I. I feel you on that. I also, I'm like, ah, wouldn't it be nice to be a little more. I. I don't have it in me. I don't have it in. I cannot do it. But it is enjoyable to watch someone else do it.

[Maya]

Yeah.

[Danielle Fishel]

I sensed a big funk and 70s soul influence on the album. Was that a conscious direction? Cause the first thing it made me think of was that it was like hearkening back to albums your parents probably played for you when you were a kid.

[Maya]

You nailed it on the head.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

I transport and retreat to my living room where the touch and feel vinyl, the needle to the wax were all experiences. The artwork on the vinyl, the little. What are they called?

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Those plastic things for the 45s.

[CarMax Spokesperson]

Yes.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

The little discs.

[Interviewer/Host]

Yes.

[Maya]

I don't even know what they're called. But it was fascination being able to see but also witness and then experience the music and the artwork of all of those individuals or bands from that time. But what happened in my living room as a kid was just pure joy.

[Maya's Sister or Close Associate]

Whether it was extended family coming over and being the center of attention and singing and dancing for everyone, or just

[Maya]

literally being in my own world and letting the music take me wherever it took me. But there were musicians as well that came to rehearse with my dad for his performances. Still to this day, by the way, and I use this word so many times in this sit down with you, it was electric.

[Danielle Fishel]

Yeah.

[Maya]

And I will never forget those experiences. And I've always wanted to bring that to my own projects, but also the stage because my dad is a kick butt performer too.

[Parent or Family Member]

Right.

[Maya]

And so it's all of that. It's my childhood wrapped in one project.

[Interviewer/Host]

Oh, I love that.

[Danielle Fishel]

Listen, if Maya is willing to sit down with me for an interview, I am going to force her to stick around for as long as possible. So we have a bonus episode dropping this Friday exclusively on the Teen Beat dedicated podcast feed where I continue this conversation with Maya and we listen to one of your voice memos recalling an embarrassing childhood memory that will forever remain our little secret. And don't forget to listen to Maya's newest album, Retrospect, available wherever you stream music music. And you can go to mayamya.com that's my a m y a dot com to learn how you can pick up physical copies, which is a great way to support her new independent journey. Teen Beat is an I heart podcast produced and hosted by Danielle Fishel, executive producers Jensen Karp and Amy Sugarman Executive in charge of production Danielle Romo Producer and Editor Tara Suedboksh. The theme song is by Mark yes, that Mark Hoppas. Follow us on Instagram eenbeatpod

[Domino's Spokesperson]

this is

[Bowen Yang]

Bowen Yang from Lost Culture Research with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang. We all know the feeling when life gets really busy.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Taking care of yourself can feel impossible. That's why Premier Protein shakes are my go to. They have 30 grams of protein, 160

[Bowen Yang]

calories, no added sugar, and they taste amazing.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

So they're a healthy choice you'll actually want to make make.

[Bowen Yang]

It's not just for fitness, it's for getting after life.

[Premier Protein Spokesperson]

Premier Protein powers me to say yes to more. Find your favorite [e-mail] that's P R E M I E R protein.com running

[Odoo Spokesperson]

a business shouldn't feel like surviving a software group project. One app for accounting, another for inventory, another for sales, and somehow none of them talk to each other. That's where Odoo comes in. An all in one business management software that brings every part of your business together, from sales and accounting to inventory and marketing. All in one powerful platform. No messy integrations, no bouncing between tabs, and best of all, no spreadsheets. Stop managing software and start managing your business with one unified system. Try for free today at odoo.com iheartradio that's O D O O O.com iheartradio

[Pedigree Spokesperson]

we learned how to love dogs from the dogs that loved us and waited for us to get home from school. They were the dogs that raised us. We returned the love with Pedigree Dog Food. It was good then. It's better now. For 40 years, Pedigree has been bringing out the goodness in dogs. Every bowl serves up 100% of the nutrition your dog needs. Supporting six health essentials. That's the pedigree, goodness, promise. Pedigree. Good, then better. Now.

[Bobcat Spokesperson]

This episode is brought to you by Bobcat. They started the compact equipment industry through grit, determination and a whole lot of think we can't do that.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Watch us.

[Bobcat Spokesperson]

They set standards, broke records, empowered people to build bigger and higher, to dig deeper, to make the impossible possible. We've all been there with the doubters, telling us what we can't do. Who cares what they think? We don't need their permission or forgiveness. We just get things done. So go ahead and doubt me. Judge me, Challenge me. But when the time comes, watch me. Bobcat.

[Domino's Spokesperson]

It's called soccer. It's called football. Soccer.

[Odoo Spokesperson]

Football. Domino's. Best deal ever. Let you get any pizza, including stuffed crust, with any toppings for 9.99.

[Domino's Spokesperson]

Okay, we can agree on that.

[Pedigree Spokesperson]

Yeah, fully.

[Domino's Spokesperson]

So pineapple.

[Pedigree Spokesperson]

Don't ruin it.

[Domino's Spokesperson]

Get any pizza, including stuffed crust with any toppings for 9.99. Finally, something everyone can get behind. And if the rest disagree, that's between them and Domino's. Which means the only thing left to fight over is who's ordering. Prices higher for some locations. Excludes XL and specialty pizzas. Select this offer from 6:15 to 7:26 online only. Size availability varies by crust tank max 7 toppings, 6 for pan and New York style crust. Minimum purchase required for delivery. Prices, participation, delivery area and charges may vary.

[Maya]

This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed Human.