Jeff Lewis Has Issues: Episode with Todrick Hall & Joey Zauzig

Release Date: November 13, 2024
Host: Jeff Lewis
Guests: Todrick Hall, Joey Zauzig
Podcast Series: Jeff Lewis Has Issues
Platform: SiriusXM

Introduction

In this episode of "Jeff Lewis Has Issues," Jeff Lewis hosts renowned entertainer Todrick Hall and Joey Zauzig, delving deep into personal lives, professional struggles, and the complexities of relationships. True to his no-filter style, Jeff navigates through candid conversations, humorous exchanges, and moments of vulnerability, offering listeners an unfiltered glimpse into the lives of these influential figures.

Reconnecting and Personal Updates

Jeff Lewis opens the conversation by welcoming back Sam (Joey Zauzig), noting his absence since April and his recent endeavors in London performing burlesque and playing the role of Donkey in "Shrek."

• Jeff Lewis [01:45]: "You went to do. I think you wrote for burlesque, right? Also performed in burlesque."
• Sam [02:05]: "Yes."

Sam discusses his intense schedule, performing upwards of eight shows a week, including matinees, and the physical demands of his roles.

• Sam [02:59]: "There are a lot of people testing me, some crazy stuff."

Jeff humorously acknowledges the effort Sam puts into his performances, teasing him about his weight loss and the heat of his costume.

Navigating Relationships and Public Perception

The episode shifts focus to relationships, particularly Jeff's interactions with Todrick and Sam. The trio discusses the challenges of maintaining personal relationships amidst public lives and the scrutiny that comes with fame.

• Jeff Lewis [03:28]: "I feel like I maybe would be defined as Disney sexual. Like, I am definitely gay, for sure."

Discussing the Wicked movie premiere, Jeff and Sam express excitement, while Todrick humorously admits his lack of theater knowledge.

• Todrick Hall [04:45]: "What's a matinee?"
• Jeff Lewis [04:50]: "Get some culture. We got used to culture."

This exchange highlights the playful yet honest dynamic between the hosts and guests, emphasizing their comfort in discussing personal topics openly.

Career Insights and Challenges

Sam reveals his transition from performing to writing his first original Broadway musical, expressing both excitement and sadness over selling his house to focus on his career.

• Sam [09:53]: "I just got fluttery a little bit just from you talking about it."

Jeff critiques the real estate process, suggesting Sam might have undersold his property, showcasing Jeff's penchant for blunt honesty.

• Jeff Lewis [10:06]: "I think the house was very undersold."

The conversation touches on the financial and emotional tolls of career shifts, with Sam admitting his possessions are now stored away, adding another layer to his life changes.

Addressing Past Breakups and Mental Health

A significant portion of the episode delves into the emotional aftermath of a breakup, group dynamics, and the pursuit of mental health.

• Jeff Lewis [32:05]: "Have you spoken to a therapist since your breakup?"
• Todrick Hall [32:09]: "I haven't, to be honest. And I'm starting to look for a therapist now."

Todrick candidly shares his struggles with trust issues and anxiety post-breakup, highlighting the importance of therapy and self-care. Jeff and Sam offer blunt yet supportive remarks, reinforcing the theme of seeking help and personal growth.

• Sam [33:00]: "Wild to me that you can find somebody to suck on your neck, go find makeup to cover up your hickeys, but you can't find a therapist."

This segment underscores the societal stigma around mental health and the personal battles individuals face in addressing their emotional well-being.

Humorous Banter and Personal Anecdotes

Amidst serious discussions, the episode is peppered with light-hearted moments and playful teasing.

• Jeff Lewis [17:58]: "I think the bulk of losing was in the early year, early 2024, shedding."

The trio engages in humorous exchanges about hickeys, makeup mishaps, and awkward encounters, providing comic relief and showcasing their chemistry.

• Todrick Hall [19:18]: "I'm just saying."
• Jeff Lewis [19:09]: "Todrick, do you know Carney Wilson?"

These interactions highlight the importance of humor in navigating personal and professional challenges.

Industry Insights and Future Plans

The conversation transitions to professional relationships and industry dynamics, particularly discussing past collaborations and potential future projects.

• Jeff Lewis [20:15]: "The way one thing I will probably. I understand, like, what Jonathan's publicist was saying is..."

Guests reflect on their experiences with industry professionals, expressing both admiration and frustrations, especially concerning public perceptions and contractual obligations.

• Sam [22:37]: "But I do think things escalated faster than they would have on a normal show."

This segment provides listeners with an insider's perspective on the complexities of showbiz, including marketing, audience retention, and professional relationships.

Closing Thoughts and Final Banter

As the episode nears its end, the group shares final thoughts on personal growth, relationships, and the importance of self-improvement.

• Jeff Lewis [31:17]: "Have you spoken to a therapist since your breakup?"
• Todrick Hall [35:47]: "I know that feeling exists."

They discuss the significance of self-awareness, the challenges of monogamy in high-profile relationships, and the continuous journey of personal development.

The episode concludes with a blend of humor and heartfelt reflections, encapsulating the essence of "Jeff Lewis Has Issues"—a space for honest, unfiltered conversations that resonate with listeners.

Notable Quotes

• Jeff Lewis [01:45]: "We expose Joey's hickey and talk about matinee performances and taking your own advice. Good morning, Todrick. Welcome back, bitch."
• Sam [02:05]: "The donkey is where it's at."
• Todrick Hall [04:45]: "What's a matinee?"
• Jeff Lewis [10:06]: "I think the house was very undersold."
• Sam [33:00]: "Wild to me that you can find somebody to suck on your neck, go find makeup to cover up your hickeys, but you can't find a therapist."
• Todrick Hall [35:47]: "I really do want the monogamous relationship."

Conclusion

This episode of "Jeff Lewis Has Issues" masterfully blends humor, honesty, and heartfelt discussions, offering listeners an engaging and relatable exploration of personal and professional life. Through candid conversations with Todrick Hall and Joey Zauzig, Jeff Lewis continues to deliver insightful content that resonates with a diverse audience, maintaining the podcast's reputation for unfiltered and compelling storytelling.

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Note: The transcript segments involving advertisements, intros, and outros have been omitted to focus solely on the substantive content of the conversation.