Podcast Summary: The Stephen A. Smith Show Featuring Taye Diggs

Episode Title: Interview Only: Actor Taye Diggs ready to show his body "Full Monty" style
Release Date: November 29, 2024
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Guest: Taye Diggs
Platform: iHeartPodcasts

1. Introduction and Guest Welcome [01:02 - 01:29]

Stephen A. Smith enthusiastically welcomes Taye Diggs to the show, highlighting Diggs' impressive career spanning Broadway, television, and film. Smith references notable works such as "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," "All American," and "The Best Man," emphasizing Diggs' versatility and impact in the entertainment industry.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith [01:02]: "The one and only Taye Diggs in the house. My brother. What an honor."

2. Introducing "Second Chance Stage" Talent Competition [01:46 - 03:06]

Taye Diggs discusses his new project, "Second Chance Stage," a talent competition series designed to give individuals another opportunity to pursue their dreams after life’s obstacles have set them back. The show features Diggs alongside two other judges who offer guidance and support to contestants with inspiring backstories.

Notable Quote:

Taye Diggs [01:57]: "We give them another chance. And the stories are amazing. You know, we get to judge them, we get to give them suggestions."

3. Taye Diggs as an Empathetic Judge [03:20 - 03:44]

Smith inquires about Diggs' judging style, contrasting it with the more critical approach of judges like Simon Cowell from "American Idol." Diggs reveals his empathetic nature, attributing it to his life experiences and fatherhood, which allow him to connect deeply with contestants' stories.

Notable Quote:

Taye Diggs [03:20]: "I won't lie. I wanted to be that kind of judge, but I'm too emotional. I can't help but be affected by what these people have been through."

4. Personal Reflections: The Ultimate Second Chance [04:44 - 05:35]

When prompted to share his own second chance, Diggs speaks poignantly about his son, Daniel, viewing him as the embodiment of a fresh start and a source of inspiration to live a better life.

Notable Quote:

Taye Diggs [04:57]: "My son is that second chance. He represents to me all of the good."

5. Career Journey and Black Hollywood [06:01 - 08:45]

Diggs reflects on his career, discussing the challenges of navigating both black and mainstream Hollywood. He expresses pride in his contributions and the positive impact his work has on younger generations aspiring to enter the industry. Diggs emphasizes the importance of ownership and creating opportunities within the African American community.

Notable Quotes:

Taye Diggs [06:36]: "Everything now is starting to make sense. And I can, you know, relay this to my son, and he gets it."

Stephen A. Smith [08:11]: "What advice would you give to actors based on your experiences?"

Taye Diggs [08:45]: "Keep your head down, keep moving. Listen to your inner voice and keep moving forward."

6. Memorable Roles and On-Set Experiences [12:43 - 17:12]

Diggs reminisces about his roles in "The Best Man" and "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," highlighting memorable scenes and interactions with co-stars like Morris Chestnut and Nia Long. He shares an anecdote about an unscripted on-set moment where Nia Long physically slapped him, underscoring the authenticity of their performances.

Notable Quotes:

Stephen A. Smith [16:33]: "Is it true that Nia Long slapped the living hell out of you for real in that scene?"

Taye Diggs [17:12]: "Sometimes you just gotta improvise and go with what you feel."

7. Production Ventures and "Sable" Bourbon [21:07 - 27:20]

Diggs discusses his entrepreneurial spirit, mentioning the launch of "Sable," a bourbon brand he co-owns with Morris Chestnut and Malcolm D. Lee. He emphasizes the importance of ownership and creating products that resonate with the community.

Notable Quotes:

Taye Diggs [21:07]: "We're trying to explore, you know, stretch out. Expand. So that's been fun."

Stephen A. Smith [27:00]: "What's next for you?"

Taye Diggs [27:20]: "Creating ownership, Right? I gotta get on that bus."

8. "All American" vs. "The Best Man" [18:27 - 19:37]

Comparing his experiences on "All American" and "The Best Man," Diggs highlights the diversity and real-life issues portrayed in "All American," such as race and identity, contrasting it with the camaraderie and humor of "The Best Man." He appreciates the different challenges and growth each project offers.

Notable Quote:

Taye Diggs [18:41]: "All American was great just because it was so diverse. It was so diverse."

9. Parenting and Athletic Influence [19:43 - 20:47]

Diggs talks about his 15-year-old son, Daniel, an aspiring point guard, and how his son's athletic pursuits inspire him. He shares insights into balancing discipline and allowing Daniel to express his athleticism fully, drawing parallels between coaching and parenting.

Notable Quote:

Taye Diggs [19:43]: "He's got a mind and he's hungry, right? So I gotta let that animal out."

10. Being a Sex Symbol and Personal Growth [23:07 - 24:29]

The conversation shifts to the topic of being perceived as a sex symbol. Diggs reflects on his journey from insecurity to self-confidence, attributing his growth to his upbringing in the church and his commitment to humility. He acknowledges the benefits of this image in Hollywood while maintaining his grounded nature.

Notable Quotes:

Taye Diggs [23:20]: "I'm somebody. I deserve to be here."

Stephen A. Smith [24:09]: "Does it inspire you to be in the best physical condition possible?"

Taye Diggs [24:09]: "It's that, my son inspires me."

11. Future Projects and Industry Impact [27:56 - 27:55]

Looking ahead, Diggs expresses excitement for the potential second season of "Second Chance Stage," the expansion of "Sable" Bourbon, and his ongoing production endeavors. He speaks passionately about the importance of African Americans owning their projects to foster independence and representation in Hollywood.

Notable Quote:

Taye Diggs [27:40]: "We got it. You know what I'm saying? Billy Baker, my man."

Stephen A. Smith [27:56]: "What’s next for you?"

Taye Diggs [27:56]: "Producing a bunch of stuff, so."

12. Conclusion and Final Remarks [27:55 - 28:21]

Stephen A. Smith wraps up the interview by commending Diggs for his impactful career and role as a mentor to aspiring actors. He expresses confidence in Diggs’ continued success and contributions to the industry, offering words of encouragement and appreciation.

Notable Quotes:

Stephen A. Smith [27:56]: "You've been an incredible role model to so many cats out there with the wonderful work that you've been doing throughout your illustrious career."

Stephen A. Smith [28:19]: "All the best to you, one and only Taye Diggs in the house right here on the Stephen A. Smith Show."

Key Takeaways:

• Empathy in Leadership: Taye Diggs values empathy and personal connection, particularly showcased in his role as a judge on "Second Chance Stage."
• Ownership and Representation: Emphasizing the importance of African Americans owning their content and ventures to foster independence and representation in Hollywood.
• Personal Growth: Diggs highlights his journey from insecurity to confidence, influenced by his upbringing and his role as a father.
• Mentorship and Inspiration: Through his work and personal endeavors, Diggs serves as a role model and source of inspiration for the younger generation in the entertainment industry.

Note: Timestamps correspond to the participants' dialogue within the transcript and provide context for the quoted sections.