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Ryan Seacrest
You're listening to an iHeart podcast.
Danielle Fishel
Let's face it, with travel come curveballs. From flight delays to lost luggage, they put even the best laid plans at risk. Thank goodness for Avis. With them you know your rental car will come through and your plans are protected at all costs. Because it turns out Avis is here for your plans and they'll do whatever it takes to ensure you keep them, which is a big deal. And speaking of deals, you can save 20% when you pay now. Go to avis.complanonus to learn more. Avis Plan on Us. It's Danielle Fishel, Ryder Strong and Will.
Ryan Seacrest
Friedle from Pod Meets World.
Danielle Fishel
Are you a small business owner launching a company or dreaming of starting one?
Ryan Seacrest
Then check out season three of Mind the Business Small Business Success Stories from Ruby Studios and Intuit QuickBooks.
Ryder Strong
Join hosts Austin Hankwitz and Janice Torres as they talk to small business owners about how they've grown and maintained their businesses.
Danielle Fishel
You don't want to miss these inspiring stories of small business journeys.
Ryder Strong
Listen to Mind the Business Small Business Success Stories on the iHeart app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Danielle Fishel
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Danielle Fishel
As a boy mom to a three and a five year old, I barely get a break. So school drop offs, karate class, dressing my youngest as a superhero every day. It literally never ends. I can tell you firsthand your mom deserves something special this Mother's Day. And so do I. And that's where Pandora comes in. For my own mom. I'm looking to get her a bracelet, either with their iconic charms or something I can take her to get engraved in store at Pandora in my own handwriting. And whether it's shiny necklaces, earrings or unique rings, it's the perfect time. And Pandora is the place to show your mom just how special she is. Visit Pandora in store or online@pandora.net now.
Ryan Seacrest
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Ryder Strong
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Danielle Fishel
You know what's a unique Mother's Day conundrum that. Well, you guys do have to deal with it. I take it back. I was gonna say you don't have to deal with because you're not mothers, but you are.
Ryder Strong
We are mothers.
Danielle Fishel
You are? Yeah. You have mothers and you are married to women who are mothers.
Ryan Seacrest
Wait, do I. Did I have to get stuff for sue every month? I don't get stuff for sue on Mother's Day. Am I supposed to?
Ryder Strong
Do you say, happy Mother's Day?
Ryan Seacrest
Probably not.
Ryder Strong
Wow.
Ryan Seacrest
Well, I don't know.
Danielle Fishel
Did you not say happy Mother's Day today?
Ryder Strong
What about your mom?
Danielle Fishel
Did you celebrate the holiday?
Ryan Seacrest
I say it to my mom. I say it to my mom. I saved my mom.
Will Friedel
I did.
Ryan Seacrest
But it's like, because, you know, our kids go telling our kid, but she's 35, doesn't matter.
Danielle Fishel
She's still a mother.
Ryan Seacrest
I know. I never think about it.
Danielle Fishel
I guess you guys don't do anything. So, like, let's say, does Susan spend every Mother's Day with Lexi?
Ryan Seacrest
No.
Danielle Fishel
Okay. And so let's say they're not spending it together. What do you do for your wife, Susan, for Mother's Day, I let her.
Ryan Seacrest
Cook me my favorite meal.
Danielle Fishel
Will, this is not a bit.
Will Friedel
If this is not a bit.
Ryan Seacrest
No, I don't really.
Ryder Strong
Never thought about it.
Will Friedel
I know.
Ryan Seacrest
I've never thought about it. Where it's like, it's mother, it's.
Danielle Fishel
Oh, my gosh.
Ryder Strong
I know.
Ryan Seacrest
Lexi's 35. It's like, you know, I wish my mom a happy Mother's Day. Send flowers or do something. But I worship my wife every other day. I don't worship her any differently on Mother's Day, you know, I don't know.
Danielle Fishel
I don't know. Your mom's over 35, isn't she?
Ryan Seacrest
No, just about. She's going to be 35 this year. We're very excited. It's been the same birthday for 70 years.
Ryder Strong
But no. Yeah.
Will Friedel
No.
Ryder Strong
I mean, I. It's. It's definitely, like, Mother's Day changed meaning, you know, because it used to be just a time for me to call my mom, and then it was like, oh, it's time for me to call my mom, but also acknowledge my wife.
Danielle Fishel
Yes.
Ryder Strong
And, like, we do something. I usually get a card or we do something.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah, yeah, but that makes more sense.
Ryan Seacrest
You've got a little kid. You live together with the kids. I mean, that. You know, it's like, the time I met Lexi, she was already 21.
Ryder Strong
Right. But it's about her identity as a mother. It's not about my relationship to her being a mother. It's just about celebrating motherhood. And, you know, she did it. Yeah.
Ryan Seacrest
All right.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah. I, I. My mom has always loved Mother's Day. Like, just loves it. And. And every year, from the time I was little, Mother's Day was about. She didn't wanna do anything. She didn't wanna. She didn't wanna have to. We've never been a family that's liked reservations and crowded restaurants. So it was always breakfast at home, but she didn't wanna have to make any of it. So it was like, this is the day where we get to wait on Mom. We get to make Mom's breakfast, We get to make Mom's coffee. Any little thing that needs to be done. No, mom, you sit, you relax. Let us take care of it. And my dad, you know, we'd always. We'd have gifts for her. My dad would buy her gifts. We as kids would get her things or we'd make her something. And I remember thinking, like, yeah, that's fun. It was fun for me as a kid to celebrate my parents on their day. And then I became a mother, and it was like, oh, yeah, I get the real emotional weight of this one day. You know, parenting is, 99% of the time so incredibly thankless, and. And yet it's made up of all the little moments that most people would never think of. You know, you don't get to pick and choose the core memories your kids have. And so you never know when you're making one. It could be, like, a small thing. And now, as a grown woman who lives not super close to my mother, like, I still want to celebrate my mom on Mother's Day, but also, how do I do that while also refusing to lift a finger?
Ryan Seacrest
Yes, exactly.
Ryder Strong
You take her mantle now. Now. Yeah.
Danielle Fishel
And so it's very hard.
Ryder Strong
Yeah, no, it's hard.
Danielle Fishel
My mom has tried to be very, like, I'll come to you. Don't worry about it. But it's still. That's hard for me. I still have that feeling of like. But sure, you've had. And she says that. She Sundays, I've had 40 years of mother's Days.
Ryan Seacrest
Now it's your turn.
Danielle Fishel
Let's let it be about you.
Ryder Strong
Or you could do this. I mean, the other thing that's ironically happens between me and Alex is like, our gifts to each other are, like, getting a break from the kids or getting a break away from each other. So, like, you know, there's a year I. Me and a bunch of dads sent our wives off to a Mother's Day brunch. So we all watched the kids. So they got a break, you know, but it was like, we also didn't get to enjoy that. And then, like, Alex has been like, you can go to as many movies as you want today. I'll take Indy and that'll be Father's Day. You know, there have been like. But it's.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Ryan Seacrest
The irony, you know? Who doesn't like Mother's Day? The woman who invented Mother's Day.
Ryder Strong
What?
Ryan Seacrest
It's a true story. Anna Jarvis, the founder of Mother's Day, came to regret and even actively opposed the holiday she created. She was distressed by its commercialization, which she felt strayed from its original, more personal intent, and actively campaigned to have the thing she invented erased.
Will Friedel
Wow.
Ryan Seacrest
Isn't that crazy?
Danielle Fishel
Pretty nuts.
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah. I'm gonna have to celebrate, too. I'm gonna. I owe her retroactively. I owe her a whole bunch of Mother's things.
Danielle Fishel
You owe her a whole bunch of just nice, nice little things.
Ryan Seacrest
But I give her nice little things all the time. I enjoy giving her nice things.
Danielle Fishel
I know.
Ryan Seacrest
Like, I like worshiping her on a ren. Just like a regular Wednesday. I like to be like, hey, babe, this is for you because you're awesome. Like, as opposed to, this is the day I'm supposed to do this.
Danielle Fishel
Right. But same thing with Valentine's Day. Like, Valentine's Day isn't the day you tell your wife you love her. You tell her you love her. We never celebrate Valentine's Day all the time.
Ryan Seacrest
We never celebrate Valentine's Day.
Ryder Strong
Same with birthday, right?
Ryan Seacrest
It's like, yeah, Birthday's like. That's a personalized. That's just you and the power of the 11. That's what. That's what the birthday is. It's the only birthdays that count. Let's be honest.
Danielle Fishel
So, yeah, I ask for from Jensen every year I get a hotel room.
Ryan Seacrest
Alone for Mother's Day or for Valentine's Day.
Danielle Fishel
On Mother's Day. No, for Mother's Day. What my gift is, I don't take it on Mother's Day as much as I'd like the day alone. I feel like it's my duty. It's my duty to spend it with my kids. But my gift that I get is a night away at a hotel. And I then pick another day, maybe sometimes in June or July, and I go and I go to the spa and I sit in my robe and I order room service and I scroll my phone mindlessly and I don't have a monitor and nobody says mom and it's great.
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah, that sounds awesome.
Danielle Fishel
Pretty awesome.
Ryan Seacrest
It really does. Every day is my Mother's Day, baby. Every day is my Mother's Day.
Danielle Fishel
I also want to acknowledge that this holiday is hard for a lot of people. It's hard in our family as well, you know, as I'll start crying if I talk about it too much. But everyone knows for the most part that my mother in law passed a couple of years ago. And so, yeah, it's hard. It's hard for a lot of people. And you start getting the emails about the holidays, mothers and Father's Day and you know, there are people who want to be mothers and are trying to become mothers and that's not always an easy path. So also acknowledging that it's a difficult holiday for many, but sending love to all of you, whether you want to be a mother, you are a mother, you are not a mother, or you're Will who just is an 11th brother.
Ryan Seacrest
It's like, ah, what a mother. Mother who's a mother and Will who's a mother. There you go.
Ryder Strong
Oh, that works on so many levels.
Ryan Seacrest
So many levels.
Danielle Fishel
So many levels. Welcome to Pod Meets World. I'm Danielle Fishel.
Ryder Strong
I'm Ryder Strong.
Ryan Seacrest
I'm Will Friedel.
Ryder Strong
Oh, that's so funny.
Danielle Fishel
This is Danielle Fishel, Ryder Strong and.
Ryan Seacrest
Will Friedle from Pod Meets World.
Danielle Fishel
For many, the American dream means starting your own business and working for yourself.
Ryder Strong
If you're a small business owner, launching a company or dreaming of starting one, then you'll not only want to make sure you're using a platform like Intuit QuickBooks, but you'll also want to check out season three of Mind the Small Business Success Stories from iHeartMedia's Ruby Studio and Intuit QuickBooks.
Danielle Fishel
In every episode, hosts Austin Henkiewicz and Janice Torres talk to small business owners about how they've grown and maintained their business and tackled the hurdles and challenges that come with being your own boss.
Ryan Seacrest
From tracking money in and out to.
Danielle Fishel
Cutting through the complexity with an all encompassing platform like QuickBooks, you don't want to miss these inspiring stories of small business journeys.
Ryder Strong
Listen to Mind the Business Small business success Stories on the iHeart app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Danielle Fishel
What do you think of when you hear Amazon prime delivery trucks outside your home?
Ryder Strong
Your favorite streaming shows of course.
Danielle Fishel
But there is so much more. Whatever you love, that's what prime is.
Ryan Seacrest
Prime helps you get more out of whatever passions you're into and it helps you discover new ones.
Danielle Fishel
Just today I bought a new makeup remover for my brushes and a few collagen masks that I sleep in. And Amazon prime is perfect for my never ending obsession with beauty products. Not only do I get what I need incredibly fast, I can find myself going down a rabbit hole for all new items I didn't even know existed. Nail brightening treatment? Yes please. Green tea clay mask? Yes. Add it to the haul and the.
Ryder Strong
Fact that Amazon prime also puts hundreds of movies and TV shows right at your fingertips.
Ryan Seacrest
It's more than just same day delivery. It's a place to explore your passions.
Danielle Fishel
From streaming to shopping. It's on Prime.
Ryan Seacrest
Visit Amazon.comprime to get more out of whatever you're into.
Danielle Fishel
This is what you do when you have high standards and fancy all the fancy things like an iconic Dior saddlebag or that diamond tennis bracelet. You go to ebay.
Ryder Strong
There you'll find new loves that will never disappoint. Expertly authenticated in everything.
Danielle Fishel
Whether it's that vintage pearl necklace or brand new ruby earrings. A Prada crossbody bag to be besties with your other handbag. Even an eternally classic watch like that Rolex Oyster or that Cartier T. You know the one.
Ryder Strong
And when you find it, ebay has their expert's eyes to make sure you're getting the real deal. That way you can be confident that the designer finds you came for the luxury wardrobe you've always wanted. It's all real. In fact, it's verified authentic.
Danielle Fishel
So bring your high standards and never limit what you can find.
Ryder Strong
Yeah, ebay.
Danielle Fishel
The place for new, pre loved, vintage and rare fashion.
Ryder Strong
Ebay. Things people love.
Danielle Fishel
Summer is right around the corner. And you know what that means.
Ryder Strong
Barbecues.
Ryan Seacrest
Sunny days by the pool with my shirt on.
Danielle Fishel
No unwanted hair. No one wants that. So we're here to remind you about Nair, the number one hair removal brand. The gold standard in the field.
Ryan Seacrest
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Danielle Fishel
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Ryan Seacrest
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Ryder Strong
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Danielle Fishel
As a boy mom to a 3 and a 5 year old, I barely get a break. School drop offs, karate class, dressing my youngest as a superhero every day. It literally never ends. I can tell you firsthand your mom deserves something special this Mother's Day and so do I. And that's where Pandora comes in. For my own mom. I'm looking to get her a bracelet, either with their iconic charms or something I can take her to get engraved in store at Pandora in my own handwriting. And whether it's shiny necklaces, earrings or unique rings, it's the perfect time. And Pandora is the place to show your mom just how special she is. Visit Pandora in store or online@pandora.net now. It would be difficult to describe the landscape of 80s family television without the name Punky Brewster. What was only a four season show, two on NBC and two in syndication, propelled its star and her mismatched shoes into a pop culture stratosphere that would be hard to describe. In 2025, the Los Angeles native achieved a level of success that put her on a journey that could only be rivaled by Forrest Gump. Placing her front and center, always with a camcorder, in some of the coolest pop culture moments of the 90s, she not only possessed talent, she was surrounded by it, as seen in her film Kid 90, a documentary made up of her unbelievable home movies and now modern day footage. Hoping to learn more about herself in the process. And her newest documentary, the Hurts to Love youe tells the story of a Hollywood family ravaged by fame, addiction and mental illness. Her unique voice and her one of a kind experience in the business have made her one of the most interesting and illuminating voices in documentary filmmaking. And now she's talking to Us. So please welcome to pod meets world, an icon of the small screen. It's Soleil Moon Fry.
Will Friedel
Hi.
Ryan Seacrest
Hi.
Danielle Fishel
Oh, it's so good to see you. I have to admit, I feel very left out. I had Major Fomo not being at 90s con with you. I know you. We missed you. I know. I missed you guys. I know. You spent a wonderful weekend together.
Will Friedel
It was fantastic.
Ryan Seacrest
And we didn't want to tell Danielle. She actually wasn't invited.
Danielle Fishel
I know. Any other stories you want to tell me to make me jealous before we go? Anything.
Will Friedel
Just. It was just a good time.
Ryder Strong
It was a good night job.
Danielle Fishel
Do you do a lot of conventions?
Will Friedel
I only have done a few, but they've been so much fun that I'm like, oh, yeah, I want to go.
Danielle Fishel
I know.
Will Friedel
It's. It's been so beautiful, and people are so kind and wonderful, and I just love, like, spending time with people and getting to know them, and it's totally emotional and beautiful and inspiring and nostalgic and kind of like a reunion is the emotion.
Ryan Seacrest
Well, Soleil wouldn't get to meet a whole lot of people at the convention because she's. She's a hugger.
Will Friedel
I am.
Ryan Seacrest
And I mean, even more than Rider Strong is a hugger, she has to hug everybody. So you'd be there all day and meet six people is the problem.
Danielle Fishel
I love.
Will Friedel
Love people so much, and they were so sweet, and I just. I love hearing their stories and conversations.
Ryder Strong
When we were doing photo ops together, so we did a photo op. It was like the TGIF photo op. And it was a row of us. Jaleel and Soleil. Who else? We were all, Matt was there.
Ryan Seacrest
Matt.
Ryder Strong
Anyway, there's a lot of us, and there's a lot of people that were in a line, so we were like, we just have to move quickly and say hi. So, like, let's not hug. We're just gonna, like, say hi, just completely out the window. The second the first person went in, Soleil was just like, hi, how are you? How's your day? They're, like, crying and holding each other and talking, and she's like, where do you want to stand? I was like, oh, this is gonna take forever. You're, like, one of the most empathetic people I've ever seen in my life. Like, you just pour it out. You're just like, oh. And when the love comes to you, you just give it right back. It's an amazing thing to witness.
Will Friedel
It was really, really touching, and I just. Oh, my gosh. I love it. They. I love hearing the stories. And, yeah, I think it's a really healing experience, too. I think people are. There's just a really. It's. It's beautiful.
Danielle Fishel
It's scribble.
Ryder Strong
Did you always feel great when people recognized you, or was there a time where it was, like, not a great experience where you.
Will Friedel
I'm literally like, I love Punky so much. She is like, my son, superhero, part of, like, me. And I feel like there's Punky and everyone and Cherry and everyone. So for me, I, like, love when people connect to it. And, oh, my goodness, there was kids that showed up, dressed up like Punky, like, that. My heart was so warm. And I think that, honestly, that. That Punky has gotten me through some of the best times of my life and the hardest times of my life. Like, she just really, like, feels so connected to her. So I'm really touched when. When. When she touches other people, I get very excited about it.
Danielle Fishel
I think about this all the time, and I wonder if it's something that strikes you too. I have a son who is about to turn six. You were seven years old when you were cast as Punky Brewster, and an entire network show is now on your shoulders. My son cannot remember the jacket he brought to school that day at all. Like that. Just every day I'm like, where's your water bottle? Where's your jacket? There's always something lost. Yeah, you have. You can't go out like that. Does it blow your mind now when you think back to what you were capable of doing at 7 years old?
Will Friedel
It's wild. I think, you know, it's interesting. Like, I think that the show had. And I mean, yours as well, right? There's so many layers and heart and emotion and at a time. And television. Television. When, you know, we spoke about this, you guys, right? Where it's like, there's comedy, but you're also in tears and.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
And there's this connective tissue. And so I do realize, like, that that depth that was there is really inspiring to me, just because I think also I didn't know where Punky ended and I began. And so there was this very. You know, there was just this. This incredible spirit that I'm. I'm pretty in awe of, you know, and just like, okay, wow. Like, if I ever feel like I. Going through it, I'm like, okay, I gotta, like, bring in that Punky power, like, survival instincts, you know? So. Yeah, so it's wild. It is pretty amazing to see.
Ryan Seacrest
Well, I mean, I know that we when we go back and we watch our show, we're. I was 17, essentially, when we started, and I. There's still gaps in our memory. We were like, wait, I don't remember this. I don't remember that. What is it like when you watch yourself at seven? I mean, do you. Do you remember any of it? Or is it all just. You might as well just be watching a different television show.
Will Friedel
I have feelings that will come back so wild. You know, I'll. I'll have these feelings where it's like, I remember being in that, you know, the bed that, like, you know, like the wind, the wheelbarrow. Like, it was like a wheel. And it was so fun and wild and interesting and. Yeah. Just. There's so many memories. The tree house. And it was really fun going back and doing the continuation, because that was great to. Then again, like, be able to celebrate and have this amazing moment in time, all reconnecting. It was awesome.
Danielle Fishel
Well, one thing we don't have in common is that Punky Brewster was a worldwide phenomenon. You had a cartoon toys, paper dolls, puzzles. You had your own toothbrush. How did you stay grounded through all of that?
Will Friedel
Okay, first of all, it's so wild. So the shoes were, like, unbelievable. The doll was so cool. I love a Punky doll. And now it's so wild because at the. People bring these items that I've never seen before. So all of a sudden it'll be like a thermos or a lunchtail or, you know. But the thing is, I didn't get a piece of any of that. Do you know what I mean? No. Like, you know, young girl in a TV show at the time. So my point is not so much that I didn't get a piece, but I didn't see all of these things.
Danielle Fishel
You were not even aware because they weren't clearing it with you.
Will Friedel
I don't think they needed to or. I don't know. Or I didn't have.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
My contract, I guess. But, like. Right. Well, somebody did really well from them. Yeah, people did. But what was interesting, what was so beautiful is like, actually through these conventions, has been to, like, I'll start getting emotional so much of the time because I'm like, oh, my gosh, there was a bandana. There was, you know, there was a comic book. You know, like, all these things that I'm seeing for the very first time at the age that I am now. And it's just a really special, beautiful experience because I suppose, you know, I always had a really grounded family and always Went to summer camp. And my friends today are some of my best friends from when I was little, growing up, from 2 years old, 8 years old. So I was always really grounded and I. And so it's really beautiful that, you know, as we grow up and we have our insecurities and our roller coasters of emotions and all these things to, like, at this moment in time when I can appreciate it so much and be in such gratitude as I've always been, but like, on a whole other level where you're like, wow, like, this feels like, you know, beautiful to be able to have this full circle experience and to be able to share it, it's really fun. And I, like, end up wanting to spend hours decorating and, you know, and, like, making it even more special.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah, it's like a really nice victory lap that you didn't get to have at the time that you get to have now. It's really great. And similarly to Boy Meets World, Punky Brewster did more than just the regular fair for kids. You guys touched on drug abuse, the Challenger crash, CPR training. It means so much to us when we are at cons and people come up and tell us about those storylines and how, you know, the storylines that we did that touched on alcohol abuse or whatever and what they meant to them and their families. Is that the same for you? Do people come up and it just tell you what an impact it made?
Will Friedel
It's amazing. I mean, the amount of incredible stories from, from people that had grown up in foster care to, to, you know, unconventional families to these really beautiful stories. And then of course there's, you know, I mean, for me, I wanted to be an astronaut. So that was, you know, for me when the Challenger, I mean, just affected me so deeply. And, and so there's all different elements. The refrigerator, I think, for everyone. Oh.
Danielle Fishel
Oh, yes.
Will Friedel
You know, that, that I think is like, in people's memories. And.
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah.
Will Friedel
And, and so I, I just, that that's such an amazing feeling to feel like there's this touch point that we all get to connect to. And I think that was one of the most special parts of when we all were, were doing our shows. Right. It's just like, that's like, it's just a really nostalgic time.
Danielle Fishel
Do your kids know how cool you are? Like, do your kid, do your kids get it?
Will Friedel
You know, I think some moments they think I'm cooler than others. No, they, you know, it's awesome. They, they, they have been through it and they're amazing. And, and ultimately they've thought Punky was pretty cool. And now on the documentaries, they're really supportive around that. Like, they come in and they edit with me and they come up with music and they film with me. And it's like, it's so beautiful that they support me so much because I really don't know what I would do without them being such a support system.
Danielle Fishel
How old are they?
Will Friedel
So I have an 8 year old.
Danielle Fishel
Okay.
Will Friedel
11 year old, 17 year old and.
Danielle Fishel
A 19 year old. Oh, my gosh, four kids. So incredible. Well, you made kid 90 a beautiful documentary with the endless footage you took on your one of a kind journey through the decade of the 90s, which included touring with House of Pain, hanging out on the set of Kids, and dating teenage heartthrobs. Do you think the House of Pain documentary could ever be finished now?
Will Friedel
I mean, seriously, you know, that is a fantastic question. I would love to see that documentary finished.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
Gonna get everybody on the same. On the same page there.
Danielle Fishel
So much footage.
Will Friedel
So much footage. Like, endless footage. I have a plethora still of footage.
Danielle Fishel
If you had to guess, how many times do you think you went to Ed Dubevik's?
Will Friedel
Oh, my God, it was the place. But I definitely went to Jerry's Deli.
Danielle Fishel
At least at that bar. So.
Ryan Seacrest
Which one? The one. The one with the bowling alley.
Will Friedel
The one with pins for Boulevard. Yeah. Studio City, Thousand Percent and Formosa Cafe. At least. I mean, literally, there were definitely like those places in the city that we lived at. Cafe 50s I was really into also.
Danielle Fishel
Oh, yeah. Oh, I remember. Cafe 50s.
Will Friedel
Right. Isn't that wild?
Danielle Fishel
So funny. So many. So many great places still. All my favorite places. Just a bunch of. A lot of diners and.
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah, you still love. That's. That's Danielle. Cafe Danielle.
Will Friedel
Come on.
Ryan Seacrest
Norms was great.
Will Friedel
Yeah, I might have gone in. Yeah. Not too long ago.
Ryan Seacrest
Of course, who doesn't? It's a brilliant place. But no, I think I told you on the panel that, you know, I grew up a television junkie and Punky Brewster was one of the shows that was in the zeitgeist for me of what made me want to be an actor. I mean, I saw kids on the screen and you just go, that. That I need to do that. I have to do that. And your show was certainly one of those again, I think I also told you there was some. There's still some trauma from the refrigerator episode, from the Challenger episode. There's a few. It's like the smoking episode for Diff'rent Strokes, which had the Opposite effect on me. And I was already smoking by 10. But I stayed away. You do. You stay away from refrigerators? It was like they would just get into your head. And this was one of those shows as a kid that was so unbelievably important to me. So I get a chance to say thank you for that. Because without those shows, I don't think I'd be sitting here right now.
Will Friedel
I love that. And I just heard a story yesterday from Cherry, which I have to get to the bottom of to find out if, in truth, something around Ice Cube's name may have had to do with the refrigerator. But we have to find out if this is true. It could have just been somebody getting me really excited.
Danielle Fishel
And Cherry.
Will Friedel
Now what if I'm, like, sharing it and then. But I have to look this up, because that would be, like, one of the coolest things in the entire universe if somehow, like this.
Ryan Seacrest
That was true.
Will Friedel
Icon got inspired by a Punky Brewster episode that would be like, we gotta do something.
Ryder Strong
I don't remember this episode. I never saw it. Surprisingly, Punky Brewster is one of the few shows I do remember as a kid, because I didn't. I never had television, but I would go to my grandmother's house and watch it. And I must have somehow got her to tape them or something. Cause I watched a lot of Punky Brewster. And it was like Will said, it was one of the first where I was like, oh, my God, that is a kid. Like, I wanted to be you.
Will Friedel
I was like, this is amazing.
Ryan Seacrest
And then.
Will Friedel
And then Ryder and I ended up in the summer camp movie together.
Danielle Fishel
Oh, we know. Summertime Switch.
Will Friedel
Oh, yeah. Yeah.
Danielle Fishel
We gotta talk about that. I'd love to know your memories about that summer in Atlanta.
Will Friedel
Okay, where were we?
Ryder Strong
Jacksonville.
Danielle Fishel
Jacksonville. Okay. I thought it was Atlanta.
Will Friedel
First of all, I. Okay, first of all, I remember that I think I had dyed blonde hair or something like that. But that wasn't all of my memories. I feel like I was really young on set by myself. I feel like I was maybe, like, 17 years old or something.
Ryder Strong
But you were older than the rest of us. Like, that was.
Will Friedel
Yes. But, yeah, you guys were like, 14, 15.
Ryder Strong
And we still had our parents. We still had our parents. And you were by yourself. And I remember you were like the cool older teenager hanging out. And we all were at the hotel. You and I didn't get to work together that much. But it was so funny because when your documentary came out, my mom said to me, she was like, well, don't you remember Soleil always had a camera. And I was like, what are you talking about? I didn't remember this. She was like, she had the best, awesomest video camera that we could, you know, you could get back then. And she was always filming. I was like, I can't believe you remember that.
Will Friedel
And by the way, I do think I did. I did find video of that time. And I remember there was a really cool town that I went to one day, this amazing church, and I have footage of it. And I was like, I did. I had my video camera with me, and then I would do. Oh, my God. I would do Risky. There was like, you know those teeny tiny honey wagons where it's like, oh, yeah.
Danielle Fishel
Oh, yeah.
Will Friedel
I. I remember this because I found a video of it as I was doing kid 90 where I was full blown, like, doing, like, Risky business in the honey wagon. Oh, my gosh. I think, like, pain, smoking. I don't know. Yeah, I was like, I don't know. I was like the. The wild counselor.
Ryan Seacrest
Oh, by the way, according to Billboard and Ice Cube, his brother would throw him in. So his brother was always getting girls. And he said, his brother said to him, when he's 13, that refrigerator down the street, I'm going to take you down there. I'm slamming you in the freezer, and when they pull you out, you're going to be an ice cube.
Will Friedel
Okay. Right. Oh, my God.
Ryan Seacrest
So there. So there you go.
Will Friedel
Because, like, people knew that if I. Thank you.
Danielle Fishel
Wow.
Will Friedel
I think you just made my entire year.
Danielle Fishel
Wow.
Will Friedel
Oh, I mean, that feels like a punky reference, right?
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah, it kind of feels like a punky reference. It does. It absolutely does. It's perfect timing, too.
Will Friedel
I'm going to really have to find Ice Cube out there and be like, this is this.
Ryder Strong
You're welcome.
Will Friedel
This is.
Danielle Fishel
You're welcome.
Will Friedel
Heard it here on your podcast. It's so exciting. Literally, I had this conversation, you know, but here's the beauty of it, right? I love that you guys are here together. Right. And how funny and beautiful is it that I can say? I was talking to Cherry yesterday. You know, I think that's something that's, like, so special about so many of our relationships, is that these are real connections, real love, real friendships, real, like, dynamics. And you see that with you guys. You know, Cherry and I have that, and I think that's really, really special. Like, yeah, really special. And. And so as much as we grew up in this, like, very surreal world that we're in, like, there's so much depth to it. And our playground. And at the same time, like, there's a great deal of love there. And I just. That, like, just hit me that I was like, oh, I was just talking to her yesterday. And you guys were like, it's just really special.
Danielle Fishel
We've also talked about how even if we'd never worked together, anyone who was around and in that same circle, there is just a. There's a real love and mutual respect and like, there's a comforting feeling being together where we. There's a shorthand we don't have to try to explain. Yeah.
Ryan Seacrest
It's where it just. It's like a safe space where other people become your safe space. It's strange.
Will Friedel
Totally. And I think it was such a small group of us. Right. Like.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
And that's why sometimes when I talk about, you know, that there's friends that have gone on to have these amazing, beautiful lives and then some of my dearest friends who didn't.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
You know, and like, not superficial friends, like, really true.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
Deep relationship. So it is so layered. And I think that's such a universal, you know, thing across the board. Right.
Danielle Fishel
Totally. Well, both of your documentaries, Kid 90 and now the Carters, hurts to Love you deal with the price of adolescent fame. Do you think there's any part of you that has some, like, survivors guilt about it?
Will Friedel
That's such a great question. I think that when. When I was making kid 90, I really, really had. So. I mean, it was such a peeling back of the onion because when I started it, I wasn't setting out to make a documentary that was so personal. I thought it was going to be about everyone but me. Then it became like, really personal experience and I felt like with that I was like, I just. I didn't see it, you know, and now I was reliving the tapes and the audio and I was like, oh, my gosh, like, now that I can see it, you know, like, it. It was like a veil lifted. Right. And so I went through that process and. And that was, you know, really very much a love letter that I got to share with, with others who we all, you know, could connect to it. And then I. I went through another experience on a documentary that I've been working on with someone that I love deeply. And. And then again I was like, if I could only see it. And then this time I was seeing it and at the same time I didn't feel like I could see that person. Right. So then there was that element, you know, and so I think there's always that kind of inner part of me that's felt like wanting to do whatever I can to, you know, some kind of, you know, that, that. That inner spirit of just wanting to do whatever I can to help others and do more. And through that journey, which was so emotional as well, I learned, like, I'm not able to necessarily save someone as much as I want to, but what I can do is I can put that into art and into my family and into my loved ones and into philanthropic work that I do. And I can continue to be empathetic and continue to help sharing stories and creating a safe space for people to share their truth and their stories and be an instrument for something way bigger than me. And so that's what I really set out to do and really with this experience with the Carters is like, look, I can do my best to, like, provide a safe space. And I feel a moral responsibility in that. And so that's where it's. Where it's gone for me is that to look back and to feel guilt about not being able to, you know, save the people I loved, that wouldn't, you know, wouldn't help or serve you.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
But to feel the grief and to really take that grief and turn it into art and into light and to love. Because I was saying, you know, recently, it's like I have tried to work grief away, love grief away, you know, and it comes back to, you know, catches up with you. I was talking to my dear friend Brian about this recently and Sharna, and, you know, it's like, it's just something that. That sticks with you, right? Yeah. Go through it and then it can still come and, you know, sneak up on you. So my. My dream is to continue to create safe spaces for people to share their stories and. And for it to touch people and that. That's how I best can, you know, Can. Yeah. Heal and not feel that guilt, you know, and it has snuck up on me a few times, but, you know, again, it has come with a great deal of. There's been a lot of loss in life. There's been so much joy and so much love and so much, you know, so much happiness. And there's also been a lot of loss.
Danielle Fishel
This is Danielle Fishel, Ryder Strong and.
Ryan Seacrest
Will Friedle from Pod Meets World.
Danielle Fishel
For many, the American dream means starting your own business and working for yourself.
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Listen to Mind the Business Small Business Success Stories on the iHeart Apple app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Your favorite streaming shows of course, but.
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And the fact that Amazon prime also puts hundreds of movies and TV shows right at your fingertips.
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Summer is right around the corner. And you know what that means.
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As a boy mom to a 3 and a 5 year old, I barely get a break. School drop offs, karate class, dressing my youngest as a superhero every day. It literally never ends. I can tell you firsthand your mom deserves something special this Mother's Day and so do I. And that's where Pandora comes in. For my own mom, I'm looking to get her a bracelet, either with their iconic charms or something I can take her to get engraved in store at Pandora in my own handwriting. And whether it's shiny necklaces, earrings or unique rings, it's the perfect time. And Pandora is the place to show your mom just how special she is. Visit Pandora in store or online@pandora.net now. You've had so many different experiences and now have documented many different cases of instances of the dark side of child stardom. Has there been any sort of tangible through line or something you can point to specifically that feels like a common denominator?
Will Friedel
It's such a great question. You know, I think that, you know, for me it's interesting because I. It's like this onion that continues to peel back because even through this process with the, with the Carters, you know, watching the lengths that they went to and you know, Aaron, like just, you know, just wanting to be loved and being such a people pleaser and I was like, oh my goodness, like I can so understand that kind of wanting to feel loved even. You could have a completely stable family, parents that Love you and still that desire to want to be loved. We all want to be loved.
Danielle Fishel
Right.
Will Friedel
We all, like, feel that. That love. And, and so I do think there's this. There is this common thread which is that, you know, that. That we all want to be loved and we all want to do our best. And I think that, you know, I could see a lot of my friends in these journeys and. And I think when you take those elements of wanting to be a people pleaser and you compile it with health and all of these different dynamics that. That can become, you know, just bigger than life. And I look at so many of our amazing artists and icons that are no longer with us, and you, you know, you question, like, to what length, you know, what pushes somebody over the edge, you know.
Danielle Fishel
Well, one part of kid 90 that really resonated with me was the focus on your body as a child and how strange it was that we allowed this kind of discourse. Do you think we've gotten any better with this as a society?
Will Friedel
Oh, my goodness. You know, I had so many insecurities growing up, like, going through, you know, puberty in the public eye, and I think it just got so exasperated with, you know, with social media and literally watching the, what. What has gone on through, you know, the fact that anyone can be behind a screen right now and in social media. And so I think it's just gotten amplified so much. And I don't think we've really begun to look at what this is doing to, you know, I mean, haven't even begun to scratch the surface of how this has affected, you know, teens and kids. And being a mother and seeing it, you know, it's just. It's heart wrenching because anyone can hide behind a screen and say anything they want to anyone and. And so often can be objectified. So I think for me, my. One of my biggest goals is like, that we actually have conversations around this, that we have these kinds of conversations, that we talk about it with our families and our loved ones and not sweep it under the rug so that we actually know what's. So that we can better be compassionate and understanding each other.
Ryder Strong
It's really interesting the way you answered that question, because I think in my mind, you know, just listening to what. How Danielle phrased it, I was like, thinking, right, it's gotten better to be a female celebrity or adolescent female celebrity. But actually what you're saying is that we've actually just turned it outward so that almost every. Your average girl is her own celebrity in the public. Yeah. And that's like, oh, my God, you're right. You're so right. It does seem like at least now, like, you. I saw Millie Bobby Brown calling out, like, the way that she's, you know, been called out for her appearance in a way that is like male actors. So I feel like the conversation is. Is out there at least like, in a way that back in the day, like, when you guys were going through it, you guys being sexualized at a young age was totally normal, which is crazy. And then.
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah.
Ryder Strong
And then conversations around your weight or your body. It was just fair game in a way.
Ryan Seacrest
We wrote episodes about it, and we had episodes of our show about it. It was crazy.
Ryder Strong
That has gotten better. But you're right that in general, this social media landscape has made it so that everybody, Every teenager kind of is a famous person now.
Will Friedel
I think. I think you're so right. I think that it's so amazing that there are conversations. And that to me, the fact that we're even talking about this right now shows me that there's growth and that's incredible.
Danielle Fishel
Yeah.
Will Friedel
Seeing the way in which. And watching it when working on the Carters, like, seeing the things that were said to this young man when. Who is in such a vulnerable, awful. And that anyone can say anything male, female. And it's so easy to hide behind a screen, to just say whatever you want and have no accountability, you know, and. And to go back to the point of just wanting to feel loved. Right. So it's like. And then whatever endorphins and everything, like, oh, people are liking people. People are giving me positive attention. And what does that look like? Like, what does that represent to female or male as they're developing? I just. I think it's so layered. So layered.
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah. Well, I have a question then, because we. We don't focus on it a lot, but we certainly talk about it a lot. I think it's important because we're putting a spotlight on some of the negative sides of. Of growing up in the entertainment industry. And there are plenty of. What was your favorite part about growing up as a child?
Will Friedel
Oh, my God. So many favorite parts. Like, it was so funny that my mom the other day is like, oh, my God, are you okay? You know, like, like, because there is, like, so much emotion to, like, the. The painful parts. But I'm always, like, for everyone that had, like, this painful experience, there's so many friends that have had these incredibly beautiful lives. I have, like, the most amazing kids, and. And I'm so thankful. And I literally, like, the sound stage was like our playground, and we got to scooter around the lot and we got to jump around on our pogo sticks and play dress up like it was a dream come true in so many ways. So that's the thing is, I think there's. It's just the roller coaster of life. There's been so much good. Like, so much good. I have the most happy memories of, you know, going on fun adventures. It was so awesome. When I would be working in a different state, my mom would ask if I could bring a friend with me, and, like, we would land wherever we were and we'd go to, like, the local carnival. I mean, things like that, that just, like these totally special, rarefied, exquisite experiences, you know? And, I mean, I. I loved boxing. My dad was a Golden Glove boxer. I got to meet Muhammad Ali. Like, cherry Coke on him. Like a Bruce Springsteen concert with Michael Jackson and Elizabeth Taylor. Like, these are the most amazing, colorful. Like, I just have had so much joy. Like, so much joy. So by, again, like, I think it's that polarity, right? Like, there's so much to it.
Danielle Fishel
Well, everyone, you can watch the Carters Hurts to love you now on Paramount. Plus, my last question for you, Soleil, is what would you like people to come away after they watch the documentary? What do you want them to come away with at the end of it?
Will Friedel
I love that question. I really, really hope it encourages us to have deeper conversations around mental illness and addiction and destigmatize these conversations, because I think they're really important to have, and I don't think we have to feel shame around them. I don't think we have to live in guilt. I think we have to be able to just be more open with each other and check on each other and to know that we're not going through it alone. I don't know any family that's not touched in some way or another by these issues. So I think they're really universal, and I hope that it continues this conversation in a more universal way, and that as much as there's pain in this story, there's also so much heart and love and hope because you look at the generational patterns and how angel is really working to break the generational cycle. And through her strength, you see this incredible light. And I hope it provides healing for she and Nick and their family and for others and. And that people watch it and see a part of themselves. You know, I think that's been one of the most rewarding parts of hearing from people after They've seen it. And having them walk into like being like, how am I going to relate to this family? And then like literally after watching it going, I had no idea. Like, this reminded me so much of my own family or this reminded me so much of someone I knew. And, and so that to me is so rewarding and special when somebody can connect to some part of their own lives through someone's journey.
Danielle Fishel
Well, thank you so much for being with us. What's next for you? Where can people find you? How can people support you other than watching the documentaries?
Will Friedel
Right now you go on to Paramount plus and watch the partners and then you go over to hulu and watch kid 90 and. Yeah, and there's lots more to come.
Ryan Seacrest
Is Punky streaming anywhere? Can people watch Punky for you?
Will Friedel
I think that is streaming on people, Peacock. I would think. Okay, look, you can go across all these platforms.
Danielle Fishel
Exactly, every platform.
Will Friedel
And watch my kids doing all sorts of fun things and you know, and yeah.
Danielle Fishel
Is Jagger in the industry now?
Will Friedel
Jagger is a phenomenal filmmaker. Yeah, she's, she's amazing. Poet is phenomenal. Off at college and dancing and studying social justice and anthropology and just mind blowing. And my 11 year old's brilliant and the 8 year old, they're just so special and amazing and I just feel like the luckiest person in the entire world.
Ryan Seacrest
I love that. I would like to have one guest come on and go. My 19 year old. Amazing. The 8 year old, like you never hear, you never hear that they might.
Danielle Fishel
Turn into something, but forever and incredibly unique. Soleil, thank you so much for being with us. We so appreciate you.
Will Friedel
Thank you.
Danielle Fishel
Thank you.
Ryder Strong
Bye.
Danielle Fishel
Wow, it's so cool. She's doing such great things with, you know, her voice and her platform and.
Ryan Seacrest
Yeah, yeah, she was one. I mean, she's on that list for me. She's absolutely on that list for me of just watching her and going that I need to do that. I have to find a way to do that.
Ryder Strong
Yeah, I think it was also like because she had an unusual name and I had an unusual name.
Ryan Seacrest
Oh yeah.
Ryder Strong
She was like this kind of like hippie kid. I like was like, oh, that's totally going to be me someday.
Danielle Fishel
That's all I wanted.
Ryan Seacrest
Just a hippie kid. That's all I wanted though. I mean it was, she was, she's responsible for, I think a, a young, like a whole generation of younger actors watching shows like that and Different Strokes where The lead was 7, 8, 9 years old. And it just made you go, God, man, I want to try that so. Yeah, she's. She's one of the OGs.
Danielle Fishel
Thank you all for joining us for this episode of Pod Meets World. As always, you can follow us on Instagram Pod Meets World show. You can send us your emails. Pod Meets. And we've got merch.
Ryan Seacrest
Merchy. I was. I'm trying to. Trying to do it like punky. Punky. How, how would you. Who would always say, oh, punky, merchy, punky. That's my best impression. Punky.
Danielle Fishel
Hunker.
Ryan Seacrest
Punky.
Danielle Fishel
Pod meets WorldShow.com we love you all. Pod dismissed. Pod Meets World is an I heart podcast produced and hosted by Danielle Fischl, Will Friedle and Ryder Strong, executive producers Jensen Karp and Amy Sugarman, executive in charge of production, Danielle Romo, producer and editor Tara Sudbaksh, producer Matty Moore, engineer and Boy Meets World super fan Easton Allen. Our theme song is by Kyle Morton of Typhoon. Follow us on Instagram odmeatsworld show or email us at podmeatsworldshowmail.com hey, it's Ryan.
Ryan Seacrest
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This podcast is supported by BetterHelp, offering.
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Yu Jo discussing who can benefit from therapy. I think a lot of people think that you're supposed to be going to therapy once you're like, having panic attacks every day. But before you get to that point, I think once you start even noticing that you feel a little bit off and you can't maintain this harmony that you once had in relationships, that could be a sign that maybe you want to go talk to somebody. There's always a benefit in talking to someone because we can all benefit from improved insight about ourselves and who we are and how we behave with other people. So if you're human, that's like a good indicator that you could benefit from talking to somebody. Find out if therapy is right for you.
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Ryan Seacrest
You're listening to an I Heart podcast.
Release Date: May 12, 2025
Host/Authors: Danielle Fishel, Ryder Strong, and Will Friedle
Guest: Soleil Moon Frye
Overview:
The episode opens with a heartfelt discussion among the hosts about the multifaceted nature of Mother’s Day. Danielle, Ryder, and Will delve into their personal experiences, highlighting both the joys and challenges that come with celebrating this special day.
Key Discussions & Insights:
Balancing Roles:
Danielle shares her struggles as a mother juggling multiple responsibilities.
"I'm a boy mom to a three and five-year-old... It literally never ends." [04:46]
Evolving Traditions:
Ryder reflects on how the meaning of Mother’s Day has expanded to honor not just biological mothers but also stepmothers and partners.
"Mother’s Day changed meaning... it's time for me to call my mom, but also acknowledge my wife." [05:06]
Personal Reflections:
Danielle reminisces about her family’s unique way of celebrating Mother’s Day, emphasizing simplicity and genuine appreciation over grand gestures.
"This is the day where we get to wait on Mom. We get to make Mom's breakfast, we get to make Mom's coffee." [06:15]
Emotional Challenges:
The hosts acknowledge that Mother’s Day can be difficult for many, including those who have lost their mothers or are striving to become mothers.
"It's hard for a lot of people... sending love to all of you, whether you want to be a mother, you are a mother, you are not a mother." [09:44]
Notable Quotes:
Danielle Fishel:
"Parenting is 99% of the time so incredibly thankless, and yet it's made up of all the little moments that most people would never think of." [07:01]
Ryan Seacrest:
"Every day is my Mother's Day, baby." [09:36]
Introduction:
The hosts warmly welcome Soleil Moon Frye, the iconic star of "Punky Brewster," who joins them to discuss her journey from child stardom to documentary filmmaking.
Key Discussions & Insights:
Convention Experiences:
Soleil shares her excitement about attending fan conventions and the emotional connections she forms with fans.
"It's totally emotional and beautiful and inspiring and nostalgic and kind of like a reunion." [17:04]
Impact of "Punky Brewster":
The conversation delves into how the show addressed serious topics like drug abuse and the Challenger crash, leaving a lasting impression on both the cast and audience.
"The show had so many layers and heart and emotion." [20:17]
Child Stardom Reflections:
Soleil discusses the challenges and rewards of growing up in the spotlight, emphasizing the importance of maintaining grounded relationships and personal growth.
"I always had a really grounded family and always went to summer camp." [22:21]
Documentary Insights:
Soleil talks about her documentaries "Kid 90" and "The Hurts to Love You," highlighting her desire to shed light on the darker aspects of fame, addiction, and mental illness within Hollywood families.
"I hope it encourages us to have deeper conversations around mental illness and addiction." [50:23]
Mental Health Advocacy:
Emphasizing the stigma around mental health, Soleil advocates for open conversations and support systems to help those struggling.
"We have to be more compassionate and understanding of each other." [43:44]
Legacy and Personal Growth:
Soleil reflects on how her experiences have shaped her into a filmmaker and advocate, aiming to inspire healing and connection through her work.
"To feel the grief and turn it into art and into light and to love." [37:05]
Notable Quotes:
Soleil Moon Frye:
"Punky's spirit is something I carry with me to this day. It's about survival and the will to keep going." [21:13]
Danielle Fishel:
"Mother’s Day is about celebrating motherhood, but also about honoring the relationships that shape us." [05:27]
Will Friedle:
"Creating safe spaces for people to share their stories is how I best can heal and not feel that guilt." [37:04]
Ryder Strong:
"Social media has turned every teenager into a celebrity, which has its own set of challenges." [46:00]
Overview:
Before concluding, Soleil shares her future projects and extends gratitude to her fans for their unwavering support. The hosts reciprocate with warm thanks, highlighting the importance of community and shared experiences.
Key Points:
Upcoming Projects:
Soleil hints at new documentaries and creative ventures aimed at further exploring personal and societal issues.
"There's lots more to come." [52:15]
Family and Support:
Emphasizing the role of family in her life, Soleil expresses admiration for her children’s pursuits and their support in her endeavors.
"My kids are just so special and amazing." [52:41]
Notable Quotes:
Soleil Moon Frye:
"I hope people find a part of themselves in our family's journey, and that it brings healing and understanding." [50:23]
Ryan Seacrest:
"Without shows like Punky Brewster, I don't think I'd be sitting here right now." [28:56]
In this episode of Pod Meets World, Danielle, Ryder, and Will offer a deeply personal and introspective look into the complexities of motherhood before welcoming Soleil Moon Frye to discuss her impactful journey from child star to documentary filmmaker. The conversation skillfully weaves themes of family, mental health, and the enduring influence of beloved television shows, providing both nostalgia and meaningful insights for listeners.
Disclaimer:
This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the core discussions and interviews presented in the episode.