Podcrushed Episode Summary: Bryce Dallas Howard

Release Date: June 18, 2025
Hosts: Penn Badgley, Nava Kavelin, Sophie Ansari
Guest: Bryce Dallas Howard

Introduction

In this heartfelt and engaging episode of Podcrushed, hosts Penn Badgley, Nava Kavelin, and Sophie Ansari welcome acclaimed actress and director Bryce Dallas Howard. The conversation delves deep into Bryce's formative years, her relationship with her family—particularly her father, Ron Howard—the challenges she faced during her school days, and her illustrious career in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Family Dynamics

Bryce opens up about her childhood, providing listeners with a glimpse into her upbringing and the influence of her parents.

• Bryce on Parenting and Learning Disabilities [09:34]:

  "I have been properly diagnosed, and I'm on the autism spectrum. That's something that is confusing for parents because...especially girls growing up in the '80s and '90s, they didn't think that was possible."

• Influence of Her Mother [11:08]: Bryce describes her mother's adventurous spirit and resilience:

  "She was managing a gun range on her own... She cut her hair and joined the football team."

• Relationship with Her Father [11:22]:

  "My dad is an impeccable human... They've been married for over 50 years, and their love story is truly inspiring."

Middle School Memories and Personal Growth

Bryce shares an amusing yet poignant memory from her middle school days that highlights her strong-willed nature and commitment to personal principles.

• Choosing Not to Date Until 18 [10:04]:

  "I decided that I wasn't going to date anyone until I was 18... I may have had my heart bruised, but never broken."

• First Kiss Experience [13:43]: Bryce recounts her first kiss at a performing arts camp and the subsequent realization that led her to her personal decision about dating.

• Embarrassing School Trip to Russia [35:17]: An unforgettable school trip experience where Bryce stood out as the only sober student amidst her peers' wild antics:

  "I was the only one that didn't drink. It was a very intense first night."

Navigating Adolescence and Peer Pressure

Bryce discusses how she managed to withstand peer pressure during a tumultuous school trip, emphasizing her focus on personal integrity over conformity.

• Handling Social Pressure [40:05]:

  "The peer pressure thing is not a thing that really resonates... My identity was so much about 'I don't break rules.'"

• Maintaining Friendships [26:29]: She highlights the importance of meaningful friendships and shares insights about her lifelong friend, Moet Hashimoto:

  "The only reason why it's really sustained into adulthood is because Moet is awesome and patient with me."

Career Highlights and Breakthroughs

Bryce delves into her early acting career, pivotal moments, and collaborations that defined her path in Hollywood.

• Breakthrough Role in The Village [45:15]: Bryce describes her casting process and working alongside renowned actors and directors:

  "M. Night Shyamalan saw that play and cast me in The Village, which was my first movie. It was a really lucky break."

• Experiences on Iconic Sets [60:07]: Sharing her deep connection with the Star Wars universe, Bryce reflects on her experiences directing and the profound influence of George Lucas:

  "Being on the set of Willow and seeing George's passion was incredible. It shaped my approach to directing."

• Upcoming Project: Deep Cover [55:33]: Bryce teases her new action-comedy film, highlighting the improvisational elements and her collaboration with talents like Orlando Bloom:

  "Orlando improv some stuff that's definitely in there. Nick was the improv winner, so that was very fun."

Personal Insights and Advice

Throughout the episode, Bryce offers invaluable advice drawn from her personal experiences, particularly focusing on self-acceptance and mental well-being.

• Advice to Her Younger Self [71:08]:

  "I would say never diet. Don't try to change your body based on what you eat and how your movements are two separate things."

• Embracing Health at Every Size [72:48]: Bryce emphasizes the importance of self-love and rejecting societal pressures related to body image:

  "I really believe in health at every size. Unhooking myself from that has been liberating."

• Navigating Social Media as a Parent [46:59]: Bryce discusses her proactive approach to managing her children's engagement with social media:

  "I have an episode and a TED Talk to show them before they even get a cell phone. It's about preserving your private life while living in public."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts expressing their admiration for Bryce's candidness and inspiring life journey. Her stories underscore the themes of resilience, authenticity, and the importance of meaningful relationships—key elements that resonate with the Podcrushed audience navigating their own teenage years.

Notable Quotes:

• "I decided that I wasn't going to date anyone until I was 18."
  —Bryce Dallas Howard [10:04]

• "She was managing a gun range on her own... She cut her hair and joined the football team."
  —Bryce Dallas Howard [11:22]

• "The peer pressure thing is not a thing that really resonates... My identity was so much about 'I don't break rules.'"
  —Bryce Dallas Howard [40:05]

• "I would say never diet. Don't try to change your body based on what you eat and how your movements are two separate things."
  —Bryce Dallas Howard [71:12]

Podcrushed continues to explore the multifaceted experiences of adolescence through authentic conversations and relatable stories. Tune in to hear more about Bryce Dallas Howard's journey and gain insights applicable to your own life.