Isa Briones: Stepping Into Santos

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Squeeze —
Isa Briones: Stepping Into Santos
March 25, 2026
Host: Taylor Lautner
Guest: Isa Briones

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Episode Overview

In this rich, heartfelt episode of The Squeeze, host Taylor Lautner welcomes acclaimed actress Isa Briones to discuss her breakout role as Dr. Santos on HBO’s medical drama "The Pit." The conversation centers on mental health in both healthcare and entertainment, Isa’s journey from theater to television, the gritty realities of portraying medical professionals, and her personal experiences navigating fame and vulnerability. The episode also explores the impact of accurate representation on screen, the enduring need for community and self-care in high-pressure careers, and Isa’s upcoming Broadway return.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Breaking Into "The Pit" & The Audition Process

• Juggling Auditions and Broadway
  While performing in "Hadestown" on Broadway, Isa faced the stress of overlapping auditions for “The Pit” and a CIA show, doubting her ability to convincingly play a doctor or agent.

  • “I had an audition for a medical show and an audition for like a CIA show… I could barely remember the lines and I was like, I feel so frazzled. I started having a meltdown… I shouldn’t even audition. No one’s gonna believe me as a doctor.” — Isa Briones [24:09]

• Support & Serendipity
  Her boyfriend encouraged her to submit the tape anyway, and, as Isa says, “It’s always those auditions… that are the ones that go, actually become fruitful.” [24:09-24:25]

2. Medical Bootcamp & Portraying Realism

• Hands-On Training
  The cast underwent an intense two-week bootcamp at Warner Bros. with medical professionals, learning to intubate, suture, and perform various procedures on dummies.

  • “Taught us how to intubate and taught us how to suture… But the biggest takeaway was…what are the questions I need to ask? What am I looking at? Who am I saying it to?” — Isa Briones [28:44]

• Commitment to Accuracy
  The show employs doctors not just as consultants, but as choreographers and writers, ensuring authenticity from jargon to medical practice.

  • “You can memorize lines all you want, but I actually don't know the ins and outs of where this information goes and what it really means…” — Isa Briones [01:09], [28:45]

• Humanizing Healthcare Professionals
  Isa shares how meeting real doctors broke the “superhero” stereotype, helping her focus on Dr. Santos as a complex person, not just a role.

  • “They're heroes and they're human beings who are going through their own shit, who are getting affected by cases…” — Isa Briones [29:20]

3. Family, Community, and Growing Up In Theater

• Theatrical Roots
  Raised in a family of working theater actors, Isa grew up on international tours and local LA theater. She observed firsthand the hardships and sacrifices behind the craft.

  • “People just have to do [theater]. It's like, I have to do theater. I love it so much that I'm even gonna lose money so I can do it.” — Isa Briones [08:56]

• Value of the Struggle
  Isa credits early years of hustle and rejection for giving her perspective, keeping her grounded despite sudden fame.

  • "Thank God that was what I grew up with. And I didn't enter just, like, success and fame… This is what it is." — Isa Briones [11:00]

• Pressure & Parental Support
  With both parents in the business, Isa felt a supportive, if anxious, environment. Her dad often joked, “Thank God our kids are good, because that would have been really rough…” [11:04]

4. On Representation, Stigma, and Mental Health Storylines

• Diving Deep with Dr. Santos
  Taylor points out the rare complexity of Isa’s character, and Isa explains how she relates to Dr. Santos’ defenses, insecurities, and humor.

  • “Anytime she's kind of out punching at someone else, it's because she's really scared inside and trying to protect herself. And I very much relate to that.” — Isa Briones [36:41]

• Handling Sensitive Plotlines
  Addressing a pivotal scene involving self-harm scars, Isa advocates for careful, collaborative handling of mental health themes.

  • “We've seen a lot of misuse of self-harm plotlines in the past. And so I was nervous about it. I was like, okay, if we're doing this, then we have to really do it right… I want this to be done as sensitively as possible.” — Isa Briones [38:43]

• Broadening the Conversation
  Both Taylor and Isa agree the show’s strength lies in its broad, authentic depiction of how trauma and mental health manifest differently for each character.

  • “Everyone is actually going through something and everyone can go through, like, with the whole pit fest thing… everyone’s gonna go home and, like, take it differently.” — Taylor Lautner [43:56]

5. Professional Parallels & Toxic Work Cultures

• Burnout in Healthcare & Acting
  The conversation turns to unhealthy cultures of overwork and ‘toughness’ in both fields.

  • “There's really no good comes from working yourself to death and making it this, like, point of pride.” — Isa Briones [44:50]

• The Power of Sharing
  “I think that's the most important thing is talking. And when you share like, oh, this is what I'm going through…Maybe there's something wrong. Like, maybe something needs to be done here.” — Isa Briones [45:35]

6. Fame, Friendship & Coping Strategies

• Adjusting to Visibility
  With "The Pit"’s soaring popularity, Isa addresses the impact of public scrutiny and the importance of stepping outside herself.

  • “It can be hard to not always be looking at yourself through other people's eyes… and then it becomes so me centric.” — Isa Briones [46:49]

• Community as Lifeline
  Isa expresses deep gratitude for her group of friends, particularly a circle of women who help pull her out of isolating spirals and keep her grounded.

  • “Thank God for my friends. I, for a long time, did not have a group of girls. And then about three years ago was when I gained just kind of suddenly this group of amazing women… You just have to have a community.” — Isa Briones [49:35], [49:48]

7. What’s Next & Returning to Broadway

• Looking Ahead in "The Pit"
  Isa teases upcoming episodes, describing themes of vulnerability and community as her character slowly allows others in.

  • “That’s a really beautiful message of the last couple episodes: finding your people and finding the ones you can lean on and be yourself with…” — Isa Briones [53:57]

• Broadway Return
  Isa will next star in "Just in Time," portraying Connie Francis, opposite Matthew Morrison and Jeremy Jordan, excited to “go back and touch people” and sing live again.

  • “My first show is April 1st. I'll be on with first with Matthew Morrison and then Jeremy Jordan… I love theater. I miss theater.” — Isa Briones [55:11]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Comfort Shows:
  “I've heard this from children, too. There are, like, children out there that are like, that's my comfort show. And I'm like, what does that say about the state of the world?” — Isa Briones [04:30]

• On Staying Centered:
  “At the end of the day, you have to. The only way to, like, stay sane in any sort of way and to also remain so grateful… is like, I can't believe I'm here.” — Isa Briones [15:58]

• On Fostering Empathy:
  “A lot of it is hoping that people walk away with more empathy for healthcare professionals, obviously. But it's also like, it's human stories. That's what all of this is for.” — Isa Briones [45:53]

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• Introductions & The Pit’s Impact: 02:16–06:23
• Family, Upbringing, and Theater: 06:23–13:07
• Handling Fame and Staying Grounded: 13:14–16:54
• Getting the Role & Bootcamp: 22:03–30:16
• Portraying Mental Health & Self-Harm Plotline: 36:41–41:12
• Work Culture Burnout (Healthcare & Acting): 42:27–45:53
• Coping Strategies, Friendship & Mental Health Maintenance: 46:38–51:37
• What's to Come for Dr. Santos: 51:37–53:57
• Return to Broadway: 54:24–55:40

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Episode Takeaways

Isa Briones’ story is one of humility amid rapid success, commitment to authentic storytelling, and an ongoing journey to self-care in the face of industry and cultural pressures. Both Isa and Taylor encourage empathy for those in high-stress fields—on screen and in real life—while making space for vulnerability, humor, and community support. Listeners are left inspired, understood, and ready to keep the conversation around mental health alive.

Transcript

[Podcast Host]

Neighborhood.

[Issa Barones]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show. Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date? Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird. Yeah, the bird looks out of your league anyways. Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Podcast Host]

The following podcast is a Dear Media production.

[Issa Barones]

Two grams of cefazolin.

[Podcast Host]

Now.

[Issa Barones]

When they first told us there was not gonna be any background music, we were like, okay, this is either gonna really work or it's really not going to. Yeah, it's what makes it feel so real. Feels like we're kind of bringing you into it. Pick the right case.

[Podcast Host]

I want to know what your audition process was like.

[Issa Barones]

I think it was a two show day. I had an audition for a medical show and an audition for CIA show. I like, could barely remember the lines and I was like, I feel so Fraz started having a meltdown. I was like, you know what? I shouldn't even audition. No one's going to believe me.

[Podcast Host]

As a doctor dying to know what this medical boot camp was like, taught

[Issa Barones]

us how to intubate and taught us how to suture. You can memorize lines all you want, but I actually don't know the ins and outs of where this information goes. And watch videos of like, what is the procedure? So I can kind of see it in my mind. I think that really tests you to be like, do you actually want to do this?

[Podcast Host]

People in the healthcare world that do have that really, like, tough exterior that they put on and there's whole other side. What's like the first thing that goes through your mind? I was nervous.

[Issa Barones]

I think we've seen a lot of misuse of self harm plot lines. If we're doing this, then we have to, like, really do it right. A lot of it is hoping that people walk away with more empathy. For healthcare professionals, it's human stories, the insecurities that all of her behaviors come from. She's a human being. I do kind of connect a lot to her mental health struggles. I definitely was nervous, but also happy that it was being talked about.

[Podcast Host]

Lemon drops. This episode today is truly one for the books. I. I have Issa Barones on the show today and she actually stars in one of my, if not my favorite show that's out right now. The Pit. If you have not watched the Pit, it's a medical drama on hbo, and it truly is one of the best shows out there, and you need to watch it. If you haven't, it has honestly just, like, swept every award show. Because this show is so good. The way they do it is coming from a healthcare professional. The way they do the show truly is so good, and you're really able to see what healthcare workers go through. And it's one of my favorite shows. So I'm honored to have Issa with me today. And we just kind of dive into everything. Her background, how she got the Pit, what it's like being on the Pit. The Pit really covers some tough topics, and. And it's really just something that engulfs you as a viewer. And getting to hear what it's like as an actor on the show, to be a part of that was truly so special. She is so bright. I adore her. And she's also making her return to Broadway, which we dive into. And I'm so excited for you guys to hear this episode. Well, Issa, welcome to the Squeeze.

[Issa Barones]

Thanks for having me.

[Podcast Host]

This is so exciting because I'm, like, obsessed with the Pit.

[Issa Barones]

Thank you.

[Podcast Host]

Literally, my favorite. I have a background in nursing.

[Issa Barones]

Yes, I know. So I'm like, why? Why? Don't watch. Well. Okay. It's so.

[Podcast Host]

It's so funny because I actually put it off for a really long time.

[Issa Barones]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And because I have, like, I worked during COVID and then I had really bad ptsd, depression, all the things I had to leave for my mental health.

[Issa Barones]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And so I was, like, really not wanting to watch it. And I just had so many friends. They were like, it's so good. And then it was just, like, doing so well. Like, the reputation was so good. I guess I have to. Yeah. And I've never watched a medical show, like, even, like, I never watched Craze. I never watched anything.

[Issa Barones]

I've never been a big medical show person either.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. My husband, too. He was like, what's the hype about this? And I was like, I don't know. I kind of want to watch. And it's now, like, it's so funny to say, but it's literally my comfort show.

[Issa Barones]

Okay. And I've heard this from children, too. There are, like, children out there that are like, that's my comfort show. And I'm like, what does that say about the state of the world?

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

That our kids are like, this is my comforting thing. But I. Yeah. I've always been like, with any healthcare professionals that watch the show, I'm like, don't do this to yourself. You're at work all day. Don't go back to work at night. But, yeah, it's also, I think, the. I don't know, we talk a lot about, like, representation matters, and it's like, this is one of those things where it's like, having your experience represented and feeling like, yeah, they got them. I'm not doing that right now, but I'm seeing that. Like, someone sees what I do. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I think because it's so, like, the audio, it's just like you're there. Like, there's no other audio that's playing.

[Issa Barones]

No. When they first told us there was not going to be any background music, we're like, okay, this is either going to really work or it's really not going to. Yeah, but it's what makes it feel so real, and it also makes it feel like you're a part of it. You're not watching a show. You're, like, exactly in it with the actors. And so it feels like we're kind of bringing you into it.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. It's so good. Okay, well, we start each episode with this jar. A little game called Citrus Got Real. If you want to pull a little piece of paper out of there and read it to our lemon drops, those are our listeners.

[Issa Barones]

Lemon drops.

[Podcast Host]

I didn't place that one there. Just so you know. It was kind of sitting, like, right there. Open.

[Issa Barones]

What's your most used emoji? Oh, I mean, I. I use.

[Podcast Host]

I was just this a lot.

[Issa Barones]

I use the. The hand hearts. Yeah. But I also use the, like, melting face a lot.

[Podcast Host]

Uhhuh. Oh, I used salute a lot.

[Issa Barones]

Me too. No, it's like, if someone's like, okay, girls, we're. We're going to the bar at this time. It's like, yep, literally. But most of my days are like, the melting face.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, that's that.

[Issa Barones]

It kind of applies to everything. It's like, either good melting, or there could be really bad melting.

[Podcast Host]

Very versatile. It is a very versatile emoji.

[Issa Barones]

I love that.

[Podcast Host]

Awesome. Well, I'm excited to, like, dive into your story. Obviously, we're going to get into the pit, but I want to get into, like, where your love for performing came from, because you've been doing this for, like, a long time.

[Issa Barones]

For a while. Yeah. Yeah. And, well, my parents are. Started out as musical theater actors, and so when I was born, I was born in London just because my dad happened to be closing out the West End production of Miss Igon that month.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And he hadn't even been doing it during that time for a while. It's not like he was in the West End production the whole time. It was just like they found out they were pregnant with me. They were broke in New York and they were like, what are we gonna do? And then they were like, hey, can you come back for the last few months to close out the production? And so I just was born there because they were there.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And then throughout my life, until I was like 9, my dad was doing different tours of Miss Saigon, like the European tour. We were in the Philippines for a while, which is where my dad is from. And so. But yeah, I was just kind of always around actors. And I think always being around theater is such a special thing because it's so ensemble based. And you just, you develop such a love of like, oh, everyone doing it together.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And I think that's the most. That's what I love the most about acting is like, who wants to do it in a vacuum? That's what made like Covid and auditioning in Covid so weird. Because you're like, I'm just doing now. All of a sudden it's all self tape. I'm in a room alone. Sometimes you don't even have a reader with you.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Sometimes you have to FaceTime your friends and then position their computer behind the camera. So that. And it just feels so like, oh, this is not what I love about the thing I chose to do with my life. It's being around people and working together. And so that's always been a part of my life. And even when we moved to LA for the first time because my parents were like, maybe we should give the kids some semblance of a normal life. And they're like, let's try auditioning for film and tv. And that wasn't going great because that is a really hard business to break into. And so it was many years of us just kind of auditioning and not getting anywhere. But the first thing that they did because they were like, we need community. Like, because none of our family was in la, we were the only ones.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

That we knew. And so they're like, well, we love theater, so let's do theater. And they did local theater, Did a production of ragtime at a 99 seat theater. And again, what I love about theater people is like doing theater in la, you are not making money. If anything, you are probably losing money to do it. And that's what makes the community of LA theater. So special because it's like, oh, people just have to do that. It's like, I have to do theater. I love it so much that I'm even gonna lose money so I can do it. And that was a lot of my, like, formative years was just being around theater people who were like, this is. I have to do this.

[Podcast Host]

Wow, that's so special. Did you ever feel like. Did it feel pressure? I'm sure it felt supportive from your parents, but because, like, they both had a background in that. Did you ever feel pressure to, like, live up to that?

[Issa Barones]

Well, I don't know. And also when I, like, first, I don't remember this, but my parents told me that when we moved to la, I asked them pretty quickly, like, so when can I audition for things? And they were like, yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Were they excited about that or not?

[Issa Barones]

They were definitely like, ah, shit.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Like, we've doomed her. Cause, you know, when you've been in this business, especially in theater and, like, trying to break into film and tv, it's. It's hard and it's mostly rejection.

[Podcast Host]

And. Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And so they were like, oh, gosh, we doomed our kids to a really hard life. But I think. But of course they were like, we can't behave hypocrites. Like, that would be crazy. If you're like, no. Which I have met actors who are like, I will not let my child be mad.

[Podcast Host]

That's why I asked, because today Taylor is like, he. I mean, I've always told I, I grew up, I danced my whole life. Like, I love performing. And obviously he's acted since he was a child. And I'm like, hun, like, our kid, like, they're definitely gonna have that gene. He's like, why? He's like, I'm not gonna put them in it. But I think if they obviously, if they ask, we're not gonna be like,

[Issa Barones]

no, you can't do this.

[Podcast Host]

But he's so, like, he's nervous. He's definitely, like, a little nervous.

[Issa Barones]

No, this. My parents definitely were very scared. And I've thought about this to myself, like, one day, if I ever have a kid. Like, they're like, yeah, we were really nervous. What if they're not good? They're like, they're like, we want to support our child. What if they're not good? Like, that'll be so. And my parents and my dad says this all the time. He's like, thank God our kids are good, because that would have been really rough, rough time. Because my brother is also an Actor. And we both started auditioning very young. No. But they were always so supportive. And I think what is so special about it was, like, we all got to struggle together for a long time. It wasn't like, I was born and they were, like, off. I mean, they were doing theater, and that was, like, paying the bills and. Okay. For a while until I was nine. And then for a long time, for, like, probably a decade, it was like, okay, we're auditioning, but, you know, got. My dad was a massage therapist as well. My mom got her realtor's license and just trying to keep us afloat while also still pursuing that dream. And they were so scared to, like, pass that life on to us. But I'm like, thank God that was what I grew up with. And I didn't enter just, like, success and fame. It was like, no, no. This is what it is.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

1% experience, like, the really cool, glamorous side of it.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And. But I got to really see the. The hard work that goes into it.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And I think that really tests you to be like, do you actually want to do this?

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Because I think there are a lot of people who go into it assuming, yeah, that's going to be really easy and exciting all the time. And I think because we saw all sides of it, it was like, okay, if you're gonna do this, it means you really. You love it, and you love the. Working at it.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And working towards something. And now having, like. Like, the pit is beyond my wildest dreams of.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Because we've seen such hardship with it. I'm like, I didn't even think this was possible. And now to be able to, like, look at my parents and be like, look at what. What we did. This is crazy. No. That's so sweet.

[Podcast Host]

I know.

[Issa Barones]

I saw.

[Podcast Host]

I saw you brought your dad with you to actor awards.

[Issa Barones]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

That was, like, now like, just hearing all that, like, that just, like, it was really makes it so much.

[Issa Barones]

It was really beautiful. I was very emotional the whole day because I think you can also get very. So much chaos is happening in those things. I'm still very new. I. Like, before the pit, I'd never been to an awards show. Like, I'd never. And all of that is so crazy.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And you can be so wrapped up in, like, okay, you have to go. Here, take these pictures. Blah, blah, blah. But I kept just stopping and, like, looking at my dad and just, like, tearing up. I was like, oh, my God. Did we ever think that's.

[Podcast Host]

No.

[Issa Barones]

Literally, like, because the goal when you've been like, the goal is to be a working actor.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Which is hopefully you get some guest stars here and there that can pay the bills and you're able to work semi consistently. That is the goal.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

The fact that now I'm like, get to be a part of a show, that I'm employed for multiple seasons, that it has reached this height, that people love it, that people know who I am now, it's like, that was not even a thing that I was striving towards. It was just like, I hope I can just do what I love and pay the bills.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Like, oh, it's. It's really crazy. And it's really special to get to share that with my parents, especially my dad coming from the Philippines. Like, he. He came to the. Well, he came. He left the Philippines when he was 23.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And for so long, it was just like, is this even worth it? Do I go home? Do I stay, like. And now. Yeah. It's very, very special.

[Podcast Host]

Very, like, full circle.

[Issa Barones]

Very, very, very full circle.

[Podcast Host]

Very sweet. I love hearing those types of stories, obviously. Like, you know, it's crazy when people audition for something the first time they ever acted and they, like, do so well and like, that.

[Issa Barones]

And the thing is, I also. I still got successes very early. Like, I'm very young and I'm. And that is like, the privilege of having parents who were going through it at the same time and getting to, like, jump on it with them was like, I got to start really early.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

But, yeah, it's still. It really is insane to be like, oh, wow, how. How quickly that happened.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. It just makes it, like, so much more sweet that you, like, genuinely. I love when people just, like, have a love, like, for performing and just, like, genuinely don't care, like, what the role is, and they get to, like, do it because it's their passion and it's so fun for them and you

[Issa Barones]

can so quickly forget it. Yeah. I think especially when maybe more success comes, it can then become this machine. And I think that's been the thing that has freaked me out the most in this version of my career. Now that has been like, the last year and a half where you see, like, oh, I can see how people turn a corner and, like, maybe go the bad route of all of a sudden not caring about the actual art that they do, not caring about the acting or whatever creative outlet it is for them. And it's just about the pumping it out in the machine and, like, notoriety and, like, all that stuff. But, yeah, it. At the end of the day, you have to. The only way to, like, stay sane in any sort of way and to also remain so grateful and always checking in with like, I can't believe I'm here. It's like, I'd much rather always live in that than be like, yeah, this is just my life.

[Podcast Host]

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It's not just for intense gym sessions or hardcore workout days. It's for everything you need fuel for. With 30 grams of protein and tons of delicious flavors, Premier protein isn't just for those who get after fitness. It's for those who get after life. It's for squeezing in a walk, showing up to a meeting, feeling ready, saying yes to plans with friends, winning game night, or even mastering a new recipe for a dinner party. That's why it feels like such an easy, smart choice. Find your favorite [e-mail] that's P R E M I E R P R O t e I n.com or at Amazon, Walmart or other major retailers. I didn't realize how much my sleep needed to improve until I actually started sleeping on a better mattress. I thought I was sleeping fine and then I switched and I was like, wait, do I feel this much more rested? That's honestly how I felt after switching to Brooklyn bedding. The first thing I noticed was how supportive it is. It's the perfect balance where it feels like really solid underneath, but still soft and comfortable on top. It's one of those beds where you lay down and immediately feel the difference. And I love that everything is designed and assembled right in Arizona. There's no middleman, no gimmicks. It's just really high quality craftsmanship at a price that actually makes sense. They also have so many different options depending on how you sleep, which I think is huge because not everyone needs the same thing in a mattress. And if you tend to sleep hot, they use cooling technology to help regulate temperature, which makes such a difference throughout the night. And something else that gave me peace of mind is they're fiberglass free and even endorsed by the American Chiropractic association for spinal alignment and back health. So you know it's actually supporting your body the way it should. They offer a 120 night comfort trial so you can really test it out and make sure it's the right fit for you. Go to BrooklynBedding.com and use my promo code SQUEEZE at checkout to get 30% off site wide. This offer is not available anywhere else. That's brooklynbetting.com and promo code squeeze for 30 off site wide. Support our show and let them know that we sent you after checkout. BrooklynBetting.com promo code SQUEEZE. Okay, let's dive into the pit.

[Issa Barones]

Okay.

[Podcast Host]

I'm very excited. I want to know what your audition process was like. Obviously you knew it was like four. I'm sure you just have been like auditioning four things. Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Okay. Well, so. Because like I've, I've, I've done TV shows before. I, I've been lucky enough to be a series regular before. But it's always been like, like that was a moment and then it dissipated. That was a moment, it dissipated. And, but there were such wonderful experiences and that's kind of what you come to expect at that point. When, when that was, it was like I had a season, it didn't get renewed. That's fine, like move on, like onto the next thing. And I also, I love theater and at the time when I was auditioning for the Pit, I was doing Hadestown on Broadway. And that when you're doing eight shows a week, it's really hard to like lock in and do auditions at the same time.

[Podcast Host]

Oh my gosh. I didn't even think about that.

[Issa Barones]

Your whole. Cause obviously you only work at night, but the whole day feels like work too because you are prepping to be able to do that and you're constantly having to keep your body in check, your voice in check, just making sure that you are able to do the best job you can at night while staying safe, not hurting yourself, all of those things. So it does feel like an all day job in a way of kind of forcing self care in a way. But then you have these auditions coming in because I, I knew that it was a four month run. I knew it was going to end at some point. So I was auditioning. There was a day where I had, I think it was a two show day. So I was like, I'm about to go leave for two shows and my boyfriend was helping me and I had an audition for a medical show and an audition for like a CIA show and I was like, I like could barely remember the lines and I was like, I feel so frazzled. And I started having a meltdown. I was like, you Know what? I shouldn't even audition. I shouldn't even audition. No one's gonna believe me as a doctor. Who's gonna believe me as a doctor? A CIA agent? Like, it doesn't even matter. And then he was like, okay, so we're just gonna take a breath.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And he was like, just, it's fine. Just do it. Like, just doesn't even matter. Like, you know what? Read it off the thing. And I did. I had my iPad and I was like, you know what? They have charts. That's fine. Yeah, my iPad here. And I'm reading off of this. And I did it. And I was like, that was terrible. No one's gonna believe me. Whatever. Right. He sent it off. And I feel like it's always those auditions. In my experience, those. The ones where you're terrible. It doesn't even matter. No one's gonna even watch it. That are the ones that go. Actually become fruitful. And then. Yeah, when I was. I was still doing the show and I had like, a zoom callback, I was the only one of the American cast, I think, that didn't go in. In person at all because I just couldn't because I was the schedule that I had. And so zoom callback and then another one. And so in relatively, it was a pretty quick process because it was so like, we're up and running in, like, June. Yeah. All while doing the eight shows a week. And then my run ended. Was always planned to end. It was a week before the show started filming. But it was in the middle of the two weeks of medical boot camp. Yes. And they were like, you can't miss that. You have to go to that. So for my last week of shows, I missed Tuesday through Friday with, like, personal days, went to la, did medical boot camp, had My Best Friend's wedding. I went to go to that. And then that night at like, 3am, flew back to New York, did my evening Saturday show, and then my Sunday matinee with my bags at the airport, and then flew right back to LA and started the pit, which was crazy. Kind of a whirlwind. But I also think theater people, that's like. That's what you're primed for.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Because that's also the dream. It's like, God, thank God, I'm booked and blessed. Yeah. I'm gonna do whatever I can to make sure everything works.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

But definitely a crazy start to a very intense process.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. Well, I was dying to know what this medical boot camp was like. I'm so curious.

[Issa Barones]

Well, we were on the stages at Warner Brothers. Okay. So we had, like a big empty stage. It was before it was being used. It was also still very soon after, kind of recovering from the SAG strike. From all the strikes. So, like, nothing was filming.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

On Warner Brothers, it was very. It was ghost town. We were the only production for months.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

But, yeah, we had like a big empty soundstage and these foldable tables and a whiteboard and these incredible doctors, half of whom work with us every day. And consulting is not the word, because they are choreographing, they are teaching us constantly, and they are writing. They're in the writers room as well. And yeah, we just kind of got a little two week crash course in our two week med school. But the thing is, they couldn't obviously really teach us too much in two weeks. But I think really the biggest takeaway of it was it was showing us what questions we should ask is how I kind of viewed it. Obviously, we ran through some of the basic procedures, like, taught us how to intubate and taught us how to suture, taught us how to do pericardiocentesis. Like all of these different things on dummies. But the biggest takeaway was like, oh, now I know when I go into a scene. Because we. We had a lot of prep time for that first episode, but after that, it's like, you're off to the races. There's no time to rehearse and do all of that.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

So I had to. We had to, like, take that time to be like, now we know going into. Every time we enter a trauma scene to make it go as smoothly as possible. What are the questions I need to ask? Where. What are the. And the main thing for me it was like, oh, yeah, I'm saying jargon. Where am I looking? What. What am I looking at? What. Where am I getting this information from? Who am I saying it to? Who. Like, that was the biggest thing. It's like you can memorize lines all you want, but I actually don't know the ins and outs of where this information goes and what it really means. And also just I found it makes it so much easier to memorize these lines that to someone who is not a health care professional. Sounds like gibberish.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

To actually know exactly what you're talking about. So I think we all. I mean, they did a great job of overviewing certain basic procedures. But then whenever I have, like, a new trauma scene, I always look it up and I'm like, okay, what exactly? Watch videos of like, what is the procedure? So I can kind of see it in my mind.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

That way, when I have to say these words, it's like, I understand what it is. Because if you're saying it and, you know nothing, it's like, that's just gonna go right out of my head.

[Podcast Host]

No, for sure. Yeah. And you, like, you know, depending on what you're saying, like your body language and like, how you're, like, actually, like, saying it definitely changes.

[Issa Barones]

Getting to talk to so many different doctors. To me, being so far from the medical field before this, I. I think you just think of medical professionals as like, these heroes, obviously, but in a way that can be such a disservice to their humanity, where it's like, oh, these people are. They're superheroes. They're saving lives. They're. Nothing affects them. And they're so strong and like, blah, blah, blah. It's like, yeah, they're very strong and they are amazing, and they're heroes and they're human beings who are going through their own shit, who are getting affected by cases and have to be the strong one for the family, for. For the patient. There's so much mentally that goes into it. And so getting to talk to all these different doctors and be like, oh, right, yeah, you're a human being. You have a personality. Your personality is very. That person. And being like, right, I'm not playing a doctor. I'm playing a fucking doctor.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Who has. Who's just a person.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And that was a cool kind of breaking down of the wall of this. This artifice that it's like, oh, this is someone who isn't affected by anything, because that's not an interesting thing to play. And it's also just not true. And so that was a really great help from getting to talk to all of these doctors and nurses and seeing their unique personalities come through and how that comes through in high stress situations and through the medicine.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, no, that's so true. I think that's what I think. That's. I mean, obviously there's, like, little things in the show that I love of, like, I love when they show someone going to the bathroom. Like, I love, like, in the first season, like, they literally follow, like, Noah the whole time.

[Issa Barones]

And then it's like effortlessly trying to go, finally peas.

[Podcast Host]

I'm like, this is like, so like, it's like little things like that that I'm like, it's cool because it, like. Like you were saying the way it dives into, like, each character being an actual human and like, having their own thing going on, like, they're not just this superhero at work. It's. I think that's, like, really what, like, draws you into. Because it's like a reminder that they really are.

[Issa Barones]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Humans.

[Issa Barones]

And because we've gotten shows before where you get a lot of personality, but you also aren't seeing a whole lot of medicine.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And so getting to marry the two makes it the most realistic it can be.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. There's something about opening a can of soda that just feels so nostalgic, like it instantly takes you back. And I feel like for me, that's always tied to the little moments, like an afternoon treat or wanting something fun to drink. But I feel like as I've gotten older, I've really tried to be more mindful about what I'm drinking day today, which is why I love Olipop. It really does taste like a classic soda, but it's made in a completely different way. It has a functional ingredient blend. It's high in fiber, low in sugar, and it actually supports digestive health. I love so many flavors of Olipop. I feel like it's hard for me to pick, but this strawberry vanilla one just does something for me. I am obsessed with the flavor. It's just this, a fun little treat for me to have throughout the day, and I know that I'm not having to sacrifice anything drinking it. Two out of three Americans say they deal with digestive issues and 95% of people aren't getting enough fiber. So I love that Olipop is tackling both of those things in a way that still feels fun and easy. And I think that's why it's become such an easy swap, because you still get the same nostalgic soda experience, but in a way that feels so much better for your body. I also feel like it's one of those things that I reach for in the afternoon when I want a little pick me up or just something that feels like a little treat without overthinking it. And for our listeners today, you can get a free can of Olipop. Buy any two cans of Olipop in store and we'll pay you back for one. Works on any flavor at any retailer. Visit drinkollipop.com squeeze Olipop is sold online at drinkolipop.com and Amazon and is available in the soda aisle and with the chilled beverages at thousands of retailers nationwide, including Walmart, Target, Costco, and Whole Foods. Cheers. I feel like there's this idea if you're eating well and taking care of yourself, you don't really need to think about anything else. But the reality is you can't out exercise or out eat every single gap in your nutrition. And I think that's something I didn't fully realize until I started paying closer attention to my routine. Like, even when you're doing all the right things, there's still gaps that can happen. And that's kind of how I started thinking about my multivitamin 2. It's not there to replace a healthy lifestyle. It's there to support it. Because even when you're doing your best, there are so many factors that can impact what your body is actually getting, like your diet, your lifestyle, even things like how food is grown today. It's not always as straightforward as we think. That's why I like having something like ritual as part of my routine. It just feels like an easy way to stay consistent and support my body without complicating things. You guys have heard me talk about this, that I've been taking rituals essential for women 18 and older multivitamin, and I've just made it a part of my day. It's something I take consistently and don't really have to think twice about anymore, which I think is key. I like that it's simple. It's just two capsules a day. They're designed to be delayed release for better absorption. It also has nine key nutrients that your body actually needs. And they're gentle on your stomach, which I really appreciate. They even have this slight, minty essence to it, which makes them easier to take. Another thing I really appreciate is how transparent they are about what's in their products. Everything is vegan, non gmo, and tested for heavy metals and allergens, which gives me peace of mind knowing exactly what I'm putting into my body. Instead of striving for perfect health, aim for supporting foundational health. Save 25% on your first month at ritual.com thesqueeze that's ritual.com thesqueeze for 25% off your first month. I feel like the hardest part of working out isn't always the workout itself. It's staying consistent and knowing what to do when you actually show up. And for me, I've noticed, I say so much more consistent with everything feels streamlined and I don't have to overthink it. And when I don't have to plan my workout or wonder if I'm doing things correctly, that's usually when I fall off. And that's what I love about peloton it really takes the guesswork out so you can just focus on moving your body and actually enjoying it. The new Peloton Cross Training Tread plus is such a game changer because it's not just a treadmill. It's built for so many different types of workouts. It makes it so easy to build a full workout into your routine, even on busy days when you don't have a ton of time. Oh, what's really cool is peloton IQ gives you real time strength coaching helps you track your reps and even corrects your form while you're working out. I feel like that's something most of us don't get unless we're working out one on one with a trainer. It also creates personalized plans and recommends classes based on your goals, your progress, and even your mood, which makes it feel more tailored and keeps you motivated. Instead of just doing random workouts, let yourself run, lift, sculpture, push, and go. Explore the new peloton cross training tread [e-mail] I'm curious. What. Are there any characteristics that you relate to Dr. Santos? Like, what are like thing. Do you see anything in yourself that

[Issa Barones]

you see in her big time? You know, she gets a real bad rep for being kind of a. And. And whatever. And, and I think starting out, I saw her almost in a similar way where I was like, oh, yeah. She, like, is. Is kind of no good sometimes, but the more I got to do it and I don't live in it, I was like, damn, we're really similar. Because obviously not nice. Don't be mean. Don't be mean ever. But the insecurities that they. All that all of her behaviors come from, I'm just like, yeah, obviously again, she's a human being and I do kind of connect a lot to her mental health struggles and to the walls she puts up. Because all of that, anytime she's kind of out punching at someone else, it's because she's really scared inside and trying to protect herself. And I very much relate to that. I also think she's funny and I hope I'm funny the way they write her. Really funny. Yeah, they do a really great job.

[Podcast Host]

No, I think, I think. Don't worry. No, I, I feel like, what, like being a few episodes into season one, your character definitely was the one that I was like, intrigued by the most because I, I know people in the healthcare world that do have that really, like, tough exterior that they put on and there's a whole other side. So I've been really excited to watch your character grow.

[Issa Barones]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Especially in season two. You know, we have that bathroom scene where you see the scars on her leg. I'm curious, when you read that in the script, what's like the first thing that goes through your mind when you read that?

[Issa Barones]

Well, actually, they told me about it beforehand.

[Podcast Host]

Okay.

[Issa Barones]

Because they wanted to make sure that I was okay with that, which was great. Wow. Scott Gamble, he's awesome. He, he. Whenever there's something really like, sensitive or personal, he'll reach out and kind of ask about it. And yeah, I think I was nervous because that's a very vulnerable thing to play and showcase. And also I think we've seen a lot of misuse of self harm plot lines in the past. And so I was nervous about it. I was like, okay, if we're doing this, then we have to really do it right. And, and, you know, I still don't know because we don't see the episodes in advance. So I'm, I'm, I'm still nervous. I'm like, I hope this plays and I hope it comes off okay. And, and. But they're also so collaborative. And I had a lot to say about it because I was like, I want this to be done as well as possible and as sensitively as possible. So I would email the writers and with kind of my thoughts on how to explore it. And they were very open to that. But yeah, I definitely was nervous, but also happy that it was being talked about because I think we, we, we explore a lot of mental health things in this show, obviously, especially, like, with, you know, the main focus being Robbie and his ptsd. And now in this season, it's becoming clear, like, what is this motorcycle trip? Like, what are you really about to do? And that's a very important question, a very important conversation. But also, I think when we're always talking about it, kind of like, yeah, I feel like most of the scenes have been like him being like, I'm gonna go kill myself anyway. And it's like, oh, my God.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And so getting to look at it through different characters and how it manifests differently for everyone, I think is the coolest part of it. Because it is not the same for everyone. Yeah, obviously, especially from different ages, from different backgrounds. Like, it's, it's. It varies in experience. And yeah, I'm, I'm excited that we talk about it, but also nervous because it's a, it's definitely a vulnerable, Vulnerable thing.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. I love what you just said about, like, how everyone kind of like takes it differently and people come from such, like, the ages and the backgrounds and there's the biggest reason. What took me so long to, like, actually quit? I. Well, it's actually. It's funny because I ended up. I worked on Covet. I was. I started originally as a, like, telemetry cardiac nurse, and then we switched to Covet. I was coveted for about six months. And then we kind of went back. I would like float to the COVID unit here and there. But then I ended up. I never got coveted working. I ended up visiting Taylor on set and I got coveted. I was like, of all places. Yeah, no, it was.

[Issa Barones]

Jesus.

[Podcast Host]

It was.

[Issa Barones]

It was really just so. It was really good.

[Podcast Host]

But I ended up getting like, long covet. I was so sick, I had to go on disability for two months. I literally couldn't work. I couldn't leave the house. But I think that was my body being like, dude, you gotta, like, check in with yourself. You're like, not okay. But the nursing culture, and I know this is just like something in hospitals as well. No matter what profession you are in the healthcare field, there's definitely like a toxic, like, there's obviously like, seniority, but there's also like a. You have to tough it out to work through this.

[Issa Barones]

And like, doesn't matter.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, just I have so many, like, nurses on my floor. Be like, I've. I'm the only one, like, from my new grad program. I'm the only one that could do it. And like, they would make jokes about, like, because it was me and another girl who were like, the new nurses on the floor. And they were like, let's see which one of you lasts longer. Like, and it's just like, it's so interesting, like, that culture, so. And I'm like, I'm stubborn. So, like, I'm like, I'm not a quitter. Like, I literally just like, worked my ass off in school. Like, this is like, I never wanted to go in the hospital originally, but because everything closed, I was like, oh, no. I, like, want to do. Here we go. Yeah. So I got that job and I was like, great, guess I'm doing this. But I was so stubborn about, like, not wanting to quit. I'm so thankful that I ended up getting Covid because I would have just like gone down to part time and like, you know, played with that a little bit and I would have. It would have taken me so much longer to actually address my mental health. But I feel like what the show really shows you is that everyone is actually going through something and everyone can go through, like, with the whole pit fest thing, you were all. All of these characters are experiencing the same. Literally the same thing, but everyone's gonna go home and, like, take it differently. Yeah. So that's what I love, like, it. That this show does. Is it really? Obviously, you know, every patient, everything that every person that comes in is, you know, things that either need to be talked about or, you know, like, common, like liver cirrhosis, like, something like that. But also it's so important that we're getting to see, like, how these things affect these healthcare professionals.

[Issa Barones]

That's. It's also funny. I mean, obviously to a very different degree. I'm not saying we're the same, but in, like, with acting, I feel like you get that kind of toxic environment and that headspace of like, okay, I'm going to. I'm going to work myself to death. And that is. I have to feel, like, really proud of that. It's a very capitalist mindset. It's like, it's. It's built into the world we live in. And I've felt it as a theater actor. You get a lot of theater actors who feel really high and mighty of like, I've never called out and I'm like, good for you. That's great. But also, maybe you need to sometimes. And maybe you need to, like, because if you're muscling through everything, then something really bad could happen later. Like, I've seen people muscle through and then they fully lose their voice forever.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And it's like that, or they. Or you fully burn out and you're like, I cannot go back to the hospital. Like, there's. There's really no good. Comes from working yourself to death and making it this, like, point of pride. And. And we make it this way of being like, I'm better than you, and. And unfortunately, again, just a product of capitalism. But I think getting. I feel like we're in a better time now. It's still not great, but we're getting to that point where we're talking about it. And I think that's the most important thing is talking. And when you share like, oh, this is what I'm going through. This is what you're going through. Oh, we're going through the same thing. Maybe there's something wrong. Like, maybe something needs to be done here.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And it's all parallel.

[Podcast Host]

No matter.

[Issa Barones]

Like, yeah.

[Podcast Host]

You know, no matter what the career is, the feelings are, everything is very, like. It's very parallel. It's all.

[Issa Barones]

And having a show like the pit is a version of talking about it. It's inviting conversation. It's inviting people to look at this and be like, do you think that this is okay?

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Because a lot of it is hoping that people walk away with more empathy for healthcare professionals, obviously. But it's also like, it's human stories. That's what all of this is for. That's why I love to act. That's why we love to, to create. Because it's all about telling stories about us.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And trying to learn from it instead of repeating mistakes over and over again.

[Podcast Host]

So true. How? Because you've been in just busy season between busy time, busy times, filming, press, word season, all the things. How, how do you prioritize your mental health? Because I'm sure this like the swing is probably like a lot to handle.

[Issa Barones]

Yeah, it's definitely hard. I. But because I've had, again, I've had different levels of it.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

When I've worked before, there were those moments and they were also very niche things. Still Star Trek and there's goosebumps. So it was like, yeah, there are niche sectors of people are, are watching this. It's not like full blown. Everyone's watching. And this is the first time I've been in something where it's like, oh no, no, everyone's watching it. Which is amazing and a blessing. But it, it definitely changes your worldview a little bit. And also how you view. It can be hard to not always be looking at yourself through other people's eyes because you become so aware of being perceived. And that can be a little scary when you always are thinking like, but what does this person think of me? And like, how would I look at me if I were that person? And. And then it becomes so me centric. And that is really scary because I'll like stop for a second, be like, I've been thinking about me and my perception so much and like, God, go outside, like go volunteer to hug someone. My God. And I think that has become. Yeah. The biggest thing is like finding ways to kind of step out of it that I think has been easier in the past. This is like we work, we film for so long, we're filming for eight months out of the year and then we have like three months of a break and then we go back and so you kind of feel like you're always in it. And obviously I'm not saying my experience is anywhere close to as traumatic as an actual healthcare professional, but when you are, it's different in that environment.

[Podcast Host]

The same. But Different.

[Issa Barones]

It's. It definitely kind of gets to you. And there's like, a thing that a lot of actors say. It's a famous quote that your brain knows you're acting, but your body doesn't. And so when you're kind of always in that environment and even though it's acting, you're still seeing, like, someone's guts spilling out and someone writhing in pain and screaming, or you're seeing this child crying. It's like, oh, my God. Like, oof. I know. I was just acting and it wasn't that much of my day. But then I go home and I feel, like, terrible and so real. That's been kind of a new. I don't have the answer of what my kind of mental health centering and grounding is it. I'm still finding it because it is. It kind of changes every day. And, yeah, it's a lot, but I think it's been a lot of leaning on people. Like my friends.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Thank God for my friends. Oh, my God. I, like, I've thought about this a lot. I, For a long time, did not have a group of girls. I didn't have, like, my girls.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Because when I was, like, a teenager, I had a group of girls in it, and it went very badly, and it was, like, very sad. And then about three years ago was when I gained just kind of suddenly this group of amazing women. And that. Because I. The way that my mental issues kind of can manifest is really isolating.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And really just kind of going into my hole and, like, stewing. And because I've gained all these friends, it's like, who also go through these things. They're like, no, no, come out, come out. You gotta come out. You gotta come be with the girls. Yeah. And I think that's been the biggest lifesaver is you just have to have a community. You have to have people around you who also. Who get what's going on too. Which can be hard and isolating too, when you're in a weird situation. Like, this is something that now is such an unrelatable situation. I hate how unrelatable I am. Like, this is crazy. I'm experiencing such wonderful, beautiful, amazing things with success in whatever form that is. But it also comes with a different set of. Some people just don't want to be your friend anymore because they're like, I can't relate to you. And, like, you trigger an insecurity in me. And it's like, that's so valid and that's so okay. But also, like, Damn.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

Lost. Lost some people there. And you have to keep trying to find the people who won't leave, who will stick with you, who will always understand what you're going through and listen to you. And. Yeah, it's just. Thank God. Thank God for my girls.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. That's so special. Heading into the last few episodes of this season, what are you most excited for people to see this season? Like, what can they expect? What are you looking forward to? To watching, I guess, because you don't get to see the episodes ahead of

[Issa Barones]

time for these last couple episodes.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

I'd never remember what happens in this show because we filmed for so long. You're like, where am I, God? When we, like, started our press tour, and they were like, so, episode one. And I was like, you're like, okay.

[Podcast Host]

I don't know, because you. I'm assuming you guys don't. Do you film in. You don't film in order?

[Issa Barones]

Yes, we do.

[Podcast Host]

You do.

[Issa Barones]

No. It's amazing. It's a beautiful gift. We film in order. Everything is chronological except for, like, if there's something that, oh, this is filmed outside. We'll do that a week later.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

And in Pittsburgh. We go to Pittsburgh for a week and we shoot all the Pittsburgh things. Got it. But for the most part, we are all in order. And that's amazing. That makes our lives and our jobs so much easier. But it also does mean that, like, you go on to the next one, it's like, yeah, it's out. That one's gone.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

No idea. But no going into these last ones. I think I'm. I'm excited about continue. If continuing to fall. Follow Santos, and with her kind of mental health struggles, getting to see her slowly letting people in, slowly letting herself have a community. I do feel like Issa is going to Sandra's, like, come on, you gotta have friends. And. And I think. And I think it's true for a lot of the characters is the. You see a lot of people starting to really lean on each other, and you start to. You start to see it even now. I mean, with whatever episode is out now. Like, as you go on, you start to see chairs and people kind of finding their people and. And I think it's. It's. That's a really beautiful message of the last couple episodes is finding your people and finding the ones you can lean on and be yourself with and actually, like, let down the walls with.

[Podcast Host]

That's special. I'm like. I, like, don't. I don't want it to end so I really don't know when I'm gonna, like, watch. I mean, I definitely, like, binge it.

[Issa Barones]

Well, have you gone back and watched Er? No, because that's. That's okay. What I hear is, like, the thing.

[Podcast Host]

Okay.

[Issa Barones]

That's what you're supposed to do.

[Podcast Host]

Okay. Yeah, maybe that'll be.

[Issa Barones]

That's what my mom did.

[Podcast Host]

Okay, great. So maybe I'll finish this and then

[Issa Barones]

I'll go, and then she'll just be texting me and she'll be like, Noah. Oh, God. Noah with his drinking. Oh, my God. Oh, my gosh.

[Podcast Host]

That's so funny. Okay, well, last little thing, A little birdie maybe told me that you're heading back to Broadway. Yeah. Can you tell us a little bit about that?

[Issa Barones]

Yeah, yeah, I'm about to. I'm literally tonight gonna fly to New York because I'm gonna jump into a show called Just in Time. It is about Bobby Darin, the singer from 50s and 60s, and I play Connie Francis. Sarah Hyland is playing it right now. She's incredible. I got to see her a few weeks ago. She's so wonderful. And, yeah, I'm really excited to. To jump into it. I love theater. I miss theater. I think when we're doing these long stints of filming the pit, once I'm done, I'm like, I have to go back.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Issa Barones]

I need to touch people. Yeah. And. And I miss singing, and I get to really sing in this. It's so fun. But, yeah, I'll be. My first show is April 1st. I'll be on with first with Matthew Morrison and then Jeremy Jordan. Very, very.

[Podcast Host]

Wait. I'm gonna be in New York in that time.

[Issa Barones]

Come, wait. Come wait.

[Podcast Host]

No, I really will.

[Issa Barones]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, my gosh.

[Issa Barones]

Wait.

[Podcast Host]

This is so exciting.

[Issa Barones]

Text me.

[Podcast Host]

This is so exciting.

[Issa Barones]

Let's go out.

[Podcast Host]

Oh, my gosh.

[Issa Barones]

I love it. Yay.

[Podcast Host]

Yay.

[Issa Barones]

Thanks for having me. Thanks for having me.

[Podcast Host]

Chatting is so fun.

[Issa Barones]

Please note that this episode may contain

[Podcast Host]

paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services.

[Issa Barones]

Individuals on the show may have a

[Podcast Host]

direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.