Brett Goldstein avoids emotions at all costs - Wild Card with Rachel Martin

Summary

Wild Card with Rachel Martin: Brett Goldstein Avoids Emotions at All Costs

Released on April 17, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Wild Card with Rachel Martin, host Rachel Martin delves deep into the psyche of Brett Goldstein, the acclaimed actor, writer, and stand-up comedian known for his role as the cynical soccer player Roy Kent in Ted Lasso and his involvement in the hit show Shrinking. Recognized by The New York Times as a Top 10 Podcast of 2024, Wild Card breaks the mold of traditional interview formats by encouraging guests to explore profound life questions using a unique deck of conversational cards. This episode offers listeners an intimate look into Goldstein’s experiences, fears, joys, and his distinctive approach to emotions.

Family Traditions: The Mysterious 'Trevor'

Early in the episode, Brett Goldstein shares a humorous yet heartfelt family tradition that left him both puzzled and amused.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [02:31]: "I have to ask the right question. And I'm sure there is a key to this person."

Goldstein recounts how his father had an unusual habit of calling everyone "Trevor" with various adjectives, leading to a memorable trip to Universal Studios where their collective antics left an imprint on the ET ride experience.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [02:31]: "We went with a load of people once to Universal Studios... ET was just going, thank you, Trevor, Trevor, Trevor..."

This tradition, though baffling, highlights the playful dynamics within Goldstein’s family and the lasting impact of such unique rituals.

Appreciation of Beauty and Spiritual Awakening

Goldstein delves into a pivotal moment that reshaped his understanding of spirituality and beauty.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [04:25]: "It was so fucking beautiful."

While sitting in Barbados, Goldstein was struck by a breathtaking sunset that challenged his atheistic beliefs, leading him to view the sun as a manifestation of a higher power.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [06:38]: "I say thank you a lot. I say the words I use most are thank you and sorry."

This experience not only deepened his appreciation for beauty but also influenced his perception of gratitude and existence.

Stand-Up Comedy vs. Acting and Producing

Brett Goldstein passionately discusses his enduring love for stand-up comedy, even amid his success in television and film.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [09:12]: "I've done stand up for, like, 17 years now. And I love it. And I always do it."

Goldstein contrasts the structured, high-pressure environment of producing and acting with the raw, immediate feedback of stand-up. He likens the spontaneity of stand-up to an addictive rush, essential for his emotional well-being.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [10:30]: "I feel a bit like it's like heroin... I feel depressed."

His commitment to stand-up underscores his need for authentic audience interaction and creative expression.

Emotional Attachment to Ted Lasso and Shrinking

The conversation shifts to Goldstein’s emotional journey with Ted Lasso and the new dynamics introduced in Shrinking.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [14:04]: "I like the idea that everything's preordained, but then why preordain terrible stuff?"

Goldstein reflects on the camaraderie among the cast and crew, emphasizing the importance of genuine relationships in creating heartfelt narratives. He discusses how Shrinking embodies earnestness and humor, balancing emotional depth with comedic elements.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [15:36]: "It's harder to be... it's harder to be."

He emphasizes the challenge of maintaining empathy and love for characters, even the flawed ones, which enriches the storytelling in both shows.

Love, Empathy, and Personal Connections

Goldstein offers profound insights into his beliefs about love and empathy, revealing a nuanced understanding of human relationships.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [18:46]: "If you're, like, trapped with someone, you're like, oh, fucking hell, this person's so boring."

He explains his philosophy that with the right questions and perspective, one can find love and connection even in the most challenging relationships. This cyclical process of initial disdain followed by deep appreciation showcases his commitment to empathy.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [20:42]: "No, no, they wouldn't. I hope they wouldn't know."

Goldstein highlights the transformation that empathy can bring, both in personal relationships and in his creative work.

Contemplations on Death and Afterlife

The discussion takes a contemplative turn as Goldstein shares his thoughts on death and spirituality.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [27:07]: "I do think there's more to it, you know, I think about death all the time."

He references the Pixar film Soul to illustrate his belief in a continued existence beyond death, blending elements from various spiritual traditions. Goldstein grapples with the juxtaposition of magical and terrible events, pondering the role of fate and gratitude in shaping one’s perception of life.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [25:23]: "It's hard to square the magical things with the terrible things."

This introspection reveals Goldstein’s struggle to reconcile randomness with meaning, underscoring his complex relationship with existence.

Legacy and the Fear of Being Forgotten

Goldstein candidly addresses the concept of legacy and his ambivalence towards being remembered.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [31:06]: "Does it matter? Does anything matter?"

He expresses skepticism about the lasting impact of one's work, citing examples of once-popular shows that faded into obscurity. Instead of striving for an enduring legacy, Goldstein focuses on creating meaningful and authentic work in the present.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [32:50]: "There's something magical like reading a book from 200 years ago... a hand reaching from the past to hold yours."

This perspective emphasizes the transient nature of fame and the importance of genuine artistic creation over the pursuit of immortality.

Final Memory Moment: The Best Day on Sesame Street

Concluding the episode, Goldstein shares a cherished memory from his time on the set of Sesame Street, encapsulating his love for creativity and joyful experiences.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [35:19]: "It was truly like a collective everyone imbuing this thing with magic."

He vividly describes witnessing adults on skateboards, engaged in playful antics with cat puppets, embodying the whimsical spirit of the show. This memory stands as the pinnacle of his personal and professional life, representing a moment of pure, unadulterated happiness.

Quote:
Brett Goldstein [38:11]: "It was truly like a collective everyone imbuing this thing with magic."

Goldstein reflects on the special nature of that day, dubbing it "the best day of my life," and juxtaposes it with his ongoing desire to create meaningful work without succumbing to the pressures of legacy.

Conclusion

Brett Goldstein’s conversation with Rachel Martin offers an unfiltered glimpse into his emotional landscape, creative philosophy, and the experiences that have shaped him both personally and professionally. From humorous family traditions to profound spiritual insights, Goldstein navigates the complexities of love, empathy, and legacy with candor and wit. This episode of Wild Card not only highlights Goldstein’s multifaceted career but also underscores his ongoing quest to balance vulnerability with emotional restraint.

For those seeking an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of Brett Goldstein’s life and mindset, this episode serves as an invaluable resource, capturing the essence of a man who, despite his cynical exterior, harbors a sincere and tender core.