Best of Design Matters: Carrie Brownstein

Podcast Information:

• Title: Design Matters with Debbie Millman
• Host: Debbie Millman
• Guest: Carrie Brownstein
• Episode: Best of Design Matters: Carrie Brownstein
• Release Date: January 27, 2025
• Description: Carrie Brownstein discusses her multifaceted career as a punk musician, writer, comedian, and actress, delving into her experiences with Slater Kinney, Portlandia, and her personal journey.

Introduction

In this standout episode of Design Matters with Debbie Millman, Carrie Brownstein joins host Debbie Millman to explore the depths of her creative journey. From her early days in the music scene to her ventures into comedy and writing, Carrie offers candid insights into the forces that shaped her multifaceted career.

Early Life and Influences

Carrie opens up about her upbringing in the suburbs of Redmond, Washington, and how growing up on the periphery of Seattle influenced her aspirations and sense of identity.

Carrie Brownstein (00:24): "If it weren't all true, Carrie Brownstein's career would seem like fantasy fiction."

She reflects on her confidence in elementary school and how being an overachiever contrasted with her later feelings of insecurity.

Carrie Brownstein (08:17): "I was a little bit of an overachiever, I guess. I mean, if I'm just listening to that list and feel exhausted by it. Then, yes, I was."

Musical Beginnings

Carrie discusses her initial foray into music, detailing how she transitioned from piano lessons to guitar at the age of 15. She recalls saving up to purchase her first guitar and the significance of that investment in her teenage years.

Carrie Brownstein (13:23): "I worked at the Crossroads movie theater in Redmond. I worked Saturdays and Sundays. And yeah, I just saved up my money."

Her relationship with music became a vital outlet for her emotions, especially during tumultuous personal times.

Carrie Brownstein (15:05): "Music seemed like a hobby and certainly a way of harnessing my emotions as a teenager."

Formation of Slater Kinney

Carrie delves into the dynamics of the Olympia music scene and her collaboration with Corinne Tucker, leading to the formation of Slater Kinney. She emphasizes the unique chemistry and intuitive musical connection they shared.

Carrie Brownstein (43:55): "We just are really intuitive. Together we can sort of finish each other's musical sentences."

The band’s minimalist punk sound and their decision to reinvent themselves during a trip to Australia mark pivotal moments in their journey.

Carrie Brownstein (42:22): "We went to Australia and sort of took ourselves to the other side of the world. It just allowed us to see ourselves in a different way."

Challenges and Defending the Band's Position

As Slater Kinney gained popularity, Carrie and Corinne faced questions about being an all-female band and their unconventional setup without a bass player. Carrie expresses her frustration with these external interrogations, highlighting the added pressures they faced.

Carrie Brownstein (45:08): "We just wanted to talk about the music. Like why do we have to..."

Relationship with Fame and Personal Growth

Carrie reflects on her complex relationship with fame, describing it as something she doesn't particularly value. Instead, she focuses on gratitude and surrounding herself with diverse, interesting people.

Carrie Brownstein (46:44): "I think it's still something that I don't really value as a category. I try to examine things more from a place of feeling gratitude."

Her hobbies, such as dog agility and pickleball, serve as avenues to connect with people outside her usual circles, enriching her personal life.

Carrie Brownstein (47:44): "I love these kinds of hobbies or pursuits that get me outside of a social group that I would normally be around."

Hiatus and Volunteer Work

Following the band's hiatus in 2006, Carrie immerses herself in volunteer work at the Oregon Humane Society. This period becomes a therapeutic outlet, helping her navigate personal losses and providing clarity during challenging times.

Carrie Brownstein (51:10): "Dogs... their needs are very clear, and they're simple, and you realize that humans aren't that much different."

Collaboration with Fred Armisen and Portlandia

Carrie's collaboration with Fred Armisen leads to the creation of Portlandia, a beloved comedy series. She discusses the naturalness of transitioning into acting and comedy, despite feeling imposter syndrome initially.

Carrie Brownstein (56:35): "I was terrified."

The show's success and critical acclaim, including receiving a Peabody Award and praise from Jerry Seinfeld, are humbling yet viewed as subjective.

Carrie Brownstein (59:44): "I feel like that stuff is so arbitrary and subjective."

Recent Works and Grief

During the creation of Slater Kinney's latest album, Little Rope, Carrie faces the tragic loss of her mother and stepfather. She shares how grief influenced her songwriting, turning her sorrow into a ritualistic and grounding practice.

Carrie Brownstein (61:18): "Music... it was comforting to put my hands on the neck of the guitar and feel my fingers move along the frets."

The album reflects a balance of despondency and hope, showcasing the band's evolution and resilience.

Carrie Brownstein (64:02): "We're a band willing to reckon with the present... a celebration at the same time."

Final Thoughts

Carrie concludes by reaffirming her commitment to voicing restlessness and dissatisfaction, not out of cynicism but as a drive to continue striving and not settle.

Carrie Brownstein (65:43): "I try to at least question what I'm dissatisfied about. But I also like to be a voice for those of us who are discontent."

Her passion for urgent life and art underscores her dedication to making meaningful contributions through her work.

Carrie Brownstein (66:09): "I want life to feel urgent. I want art to feel urgent."

Conclusion

Carrie Brownstein's conversation with Debbie Millman offers a deep dive into her journey as a creative force, navigating the intersections of music, comedy, and personal growth. Her reflections illuminate the challenges and triumphs of carving out a unique space in the creative world, making this episode a compelling listen for those seeking inspiration and authenticity.

Notable Quotes:

• Carrie Brownstein (00:48): "I want life to feel urgent. I want art to feel urgent."
• Carrie Brownstein (08:17): "I was a little bit of an overachiever, I guess..."
• Carrie Brownstein (15:05): "Music seemed like a hobby and certainly a way of harnessing my emotions..."
• Carrie Brownstein (43:55): "We just are really intuitive. Together we can sort of finish each other's musical sentences."
• Carrie Brownstein (46:44): "I think it's still something that I don't really value as a category..."
• Carrie Brownstein (51:10): "Dogs... their needs are very clear, and they're simple..."
• Carrie Brownstein (56:35): "I was terrified."
• Carrie Brownstein (59:44): "I feel like that stuff is so arbitrary and subjective."
• Carrie Brownstein (61:18): "Music... it was comforting to put my hands on the neck of the guitar..."
• Carrie Brownstein (64:02): "We're a band willing to reckon with the present..."
• Carrie Brownstein (65:43): "I try to at least question what I'm dissatisfied about..."
• Carrie Brownstein (66:09): "I want life to feel urgent. I want art to feel urgent."

Resources:

• Carrie Brownstein's Memoir: Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl
• Slater Kinney's Latest Album: Little Rope
• Slater Kinney Website: slaterkinney.com