Podcast Summary: Good Hang with Amy Poehler featuring Dakota Johnson
Episode Information
- Title: Dakota Johnson
- Release Date: June 10, 2025
- Host: Amy Poehler
- Podcast: Good Hang with Amy Poehler
Introduction and Setting the Stage
In this engaging episode of Good Hang with Amy Poehler, Amy welcomes renowned actress Dakota Johnson for her very first podcast appearance. The conversation is set in a relaxed studio environment, with Dakota bringing her newly rescued puppy, Tokyo, adding a heartwarming touch to the episode.
Friendship and Early Connections
The episode kicks off with a brief interaction featuring Amy's friend and editor, Blake Lee, who shares how he met Amy and his connection to Dakota. Blake reminisces about attending a dance party where he first connected with Amy through Aubrey Plaza and highlights the spontaneity that led to his lasting friendship with her.
Quote:
Blake Lee [02:22]: “I fell in love with you instantly... You changed my life.”
Dakota’s Upbringing and Family Background
Dakota delves into her unique upbringing, born into a family deeply rooted in the acting industry. She shares insights about her parents, including her father Don Johnson and stepfather Antonio Banderas, as well as her grandmother Melanie Griffith, a passionate animal conservationist.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [11:45]: “She rescued lions and tigers and elephants at one point.”
Growing Up Between Locations
Growing up amidst acting sets significantly influenced Dakota's perception of acting as a magical and safe space. She recounts riding dirt bikes and snowboarding in Woody Creek, Colorado, despite her aversion to skiing, highlighting a childhood filled with outdoor adventures rather than typical suburban experiences.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [16:54]: “I think of Woody Creek, Colorado. It was the best.”
Career Highlights and Influences
Dakota reflects on her early acting experiences, including her first professional role in a movie alongside her mother at the age of nine. She discusses her admiration for actors like Diane Keaton and her aspirations shaped by watching Saturday Night Live (SNL), which later became a significant part of her career when she hosted the show twice.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [35:52]: “I love SNL so much... It's my favorite place in the world.”
Handling Criticism and the Razzies
A candid segment of the podcast addresses Dakota’s recent Razzie win for Worst Actress in "Madame Web." Dakota maintains a positive outlook, sharing her experience of receiving support from Sandra Bullock and emphasizing the importance of humor in handling criticism.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [35:41]: “I was like, oh, my God. It was just crazy.”
Upcoming Projects: "The Materialists"
Dakota discusses her upcoming documentary film, "The Materialists," directed by Celine Song. She praises Song's directorial prowess and the collaborative process they underwent, emphasizing the emotional depth and clear vision that Song brought to the project.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [42:36]: “She's able to communicate what she wants emotionally... we had one brain.”
Personal Insights and Managing Anxiety
The conversation shifts to Dakota’s personal life, where she openly talks about her anxiety, particularly in high-pressure situations like award shows. She shares techniques she employs to remain present and manage her anxiety, attributing some of her composure to her unique upbringing on set.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [24:37]: “I have anxiety, but it makes me hyper present.”
Intimacy Coordination and Professional Growth
Dakota elaborates on her experiences with intimacy coordinators in her recent projects, highlighting the importance of creating safe and comfortable environments during sensitive scenes. She appreciates the guidance and professionalism that intimacy coordinators bring to the set.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [47:32]: “It was so cool. A lot of it is about feeling good in my body.”
Personal Life and Pet Adoption
Dakota introduces her rescue dog, Tokyo, sharing the emotional journey of adopting her new pet after her previous dog passed away. Amy emphasizes the importance of animal adoption, encouraging listeners to consider adopting from shelters.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [09:25]: “She’s like an angel.”
Fun Moments and Quick Questions
In a light-hearted speed round, Amy and Dakota discuss various personal preferences, such as favorite books, TV shows, and humorous takes on reality television. Dakota shares her discomfort with shows like "Farmer Wants a Wife," adding a humorous twist to the conversation.
Quote:
Dakota Johnson [54:19]: “It's a nightmare. Please tell me it's a nightmare.”
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to Dakota and her dog, Tokyo. Amy reiterates her love for animals and encourages listeners to adopt pets from shelters. The conversation leaves listeners with a sense of warmth and appreciation for Dakota's candidness and Amy's welcoming host style.
Quote:
Amy Poehler [56:27]: “Thank you for coming on your first podcast. That means a lot.”
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Blake Lee [02:22]: “I fell in love with you instantly... You changed my life.”
- Dakota Johnson [11:45]: “She rescued lions and tigers and elephants at one point.”
- Dakota Johnson [16:54]: “I think of Woody Creek, Colorado. It was the best.”
- Dakota Johnson [35:52]: “I love SNL so much... It's my favorite place in the world.”
- Dakota Johnson [35:41]: “I was like, oh, my God. It was just crazy.”
- Dakota Johnson [42:36]: “She's able to communicate what she wants emotionally... we had one brain.”
- Dakota Johnson [24:37]: “I have anxiety, but it makes me hyper present.”
- Dakota Johnson [47:32]: “It was so cool. A lot of it is about feeling good in my body.”
- Dakota Johnson [09:25]: “She’s like an angel.”
- Dakota Johnson [54:19]: “It's a nightmare. Please tell me it's a nightmare.”
- Amy Poehler [56:27]: “Thank you for coming on your first podcast. That means a lot.”
This episode offers a delightful blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and genuine humor, making it a must-listen for fans of Dakota Johnson and Amy Poehler alike. Whether you're interested in Dakota's acting journey, her approach to handling criticism, or her love for pets, this conversation provides a comprehensive and entertaining glimpse into her life and career.