Podcast Summary: Don't Ask Tig – [Encore] LeVar Burton
Title: Don't Ask Tig
Host: Tig Notaro
Guest: LeVar Burton
Release Date: September 11, 2024
1. Listener Update: Justin’s Bookstore Success [00:27 – 02:01]
Timestamp: [00:27]
Tig Notaro opens the encore episode by sharing an inspiring update from a listener named Justin. Justin had previously sought advice from Tig and Reese Witherspoon about opening a bookstore in his small town. Tig recounts Justin's message:
“Thanks for the update, Justin. I'm going to send some copies of my book your way, and I'm going to call Reese and let her know. So you'll probably be hearing from her too. Pretty likely.”
— Tig Notaro [00:27]
Justin announces the successful establishment of "Curious Cat," an indie bookstore in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, attributing part of its fruition to the support from "Don't Ask Tig."
2. Welcoming LeVar Burton [02:47 – 03:20]
Timestamp: [02:47]
Tig introduces her special guest, LeVar Burton, renowned actor, director, producer, and host of the beloved PBS children's series "Reading Rainbow." Tig warmly welcomes him:
“LeVar Burton, it's a true honor to have you on the show.”
— Tig Notaro [02:47]
LeVar responds with enthusiasm, expressing his joy in being part of the "Tig Nation."
3. Conversation with LeVar Burton [02:01 – 32:52]
a. Personal Connections and Star Trek [02:01 – 10:31]
Timestamp: [06:01 – 10:31]
LeVar delves into his lifelong passion for speculative fiction and his role in "Star Trek: The Next Generation." He reflects on how "Star Trek" provided him with a sense of belonging and representation during the tumultuous civil rights era.
“Gene Roddenberry's vision of the future... when the future comes, there's a place for you.”
— LeVar Burton [06:03]
Tig shares her own experience with "Star Trek" conventions, expressing mutual admiration and the potential for future meetings.
b. The Essence of Good Storytelling [10:31 – 11:38]
Timestamp: [10:31]
LeVar emphasizes that good storytelling hinges on conflict, compelling characters, and the ability to educate and enlighten.
“The stories that we tell... are the vessel that delivers to us as human beings everything we need to know about being human.”
— LeVar Burton [09:56]
c. Influence of Fred Rogers [11:38 – 13:41]
Timestamp: [11:38]
LeVar shares insights from his mentor, Fred Rogers, highlighting the importance of authenticity and using media as a ministry to convey meaningful messages.
“Fred was all about being okay just the way you are exactly in this moment.”
— LeVar Burton [12:05]
4. Listener Questions and Advice Segments [13:40 – 32:52]
a. Handling Complaints About School Reading Materials [14:08 – 17:45]
Timestamp: [14:08]
A listener, MB Writes, a high school English teacher, seeks advice on addressing parents' concerns about the appropriateness of assigned reading materials. LeVar advocates for evolving reading lists to reflect societal changes and diversity.
“I think it's healthy for parents to ask these questions.”
— LeVar Burton [14:40]
He encourages open dialogue and revising curricula to better represent a diverse society.
b. Navigating a Crush on a Co-worker [18:56 – 22:27]
Timestamp: [19:00]
Jay confides in having a crush on a co-worker who is already in a relationship. LeVar advises against pursuing the relationship, emphasizing respect for existing bonds and the potential complications of mixing work and personal life.
“I do not believe that it serves you, him, or the company you both work with to cross those streams.”
— LeVar Burton [20:52]
He recommends focusing on personal growth and recognizing the signs that the attraction is unattainable.
c. Confession Booth: Dealing with Past Guilt [24:03 – 29:17]
Timestamp: [24:38]
Lori shares a haunting memory from high school involving a possible car accident she caused during an illegal U-turn. LeVar addresses her feelings of guilt and uncertainty regarding karma, advising her to let go of the unresolved past and focus on her present contributions.
“Do what you can where you are. That's the advice that I would give to her.”
— LeVar Burton [27:59]
Tig reinforces the importance of moving forward and not dwelling on uncontrollable past events.
d. Name That Thing: Naming a Guitar [29:21 – 32:08]
Timestamp: [30:36]
In a lighthearted segment, Tig asks LeVar to name her new guitar. Drawing inspiration from his work in "Roots," LeVar suggests "Kunta" for a male guitar or "Kizzy" for a female one.
“If your guitar is male, I'm gonna go with Kunta... if female, Kizzy.”
— LeVar Burton [30:36]
He humorously notes that these names carry personal significance in his life.
5. Promotions and Closing Remarks [32:08 – 35:53]
a. LeVar Burton's Podcast [32:23 – 32:52]
Timestamp: [32:23]
LeVar promotes his podcast, "LeVar Burton Reads," encouraging listeners to tune in for hand-picked short fiction stories.
“There's a new episode that drops every Tuesday... I read it to you.”
— LeVar Burton [32:28]
b. Final Thoughts and Production Credits [32:52 – End]
The episode concludes with Tig thanking LeVar for his participation and sharing information about the podcast's production team and how listeners can submit their own questions or confessions.
Notable Quotes:
-
LeVar Burton on Storytelling:
“The stories that we tell... are the vessel that delivers to us as human beings everything we need to know about being human.”
— LeVar Burton [09:56] -
LeVar Burton on Star Trek's Impact:
“Gene Roddenberry's vision of the future... when the future comes, there's a place for you.”
— LeVar Burton [06:03] -
Advice on Professional Boundaries:
“I do not believe that it serves you, him, or the company you both work with to cross those streams.”
— LeVar Burton [20:52]
Conclusion:
This encore episode of "Don't Ask Tig" featuring LeVar Burton offers a blend of personal storytelling, insightful discussions on the power of narrative, and practical advice for listeners grappling with various life questions. From the significance of representation in media to navigating complex personal relationships, Tig and LeVar provide thoughtful and engaging content that resonates with a wide audience.