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Sophia
This is an iHeart podcast guaranteed human
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Sophia
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Martha Stewart
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Sophia
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Leslie Jones
Hey, everyone, it's Kalpen. I'm inviting you to join the best sounding book club you've ever heard with my podcast, Hearsay, The Audible and iHeart Audiobook Club. Every episode, I nerd out with amazing guests and dive into the best new audiobooks available on Audible. It's the book club for your ears. Listen to Irsay, the Audible and I Heart Audiobook Club on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts.
Sophia
Hey, everyone, it's Sophia. Welcome to Work in Progress. Hey, friends, we are back on Work in Progress with perhaps the best guest ever, the iconic Leslie Jones. It's so interesting to me, me, because, you know, college contest, and you won. And of course, that tells you something. And, like, we all know how hard this industry is. Comedy careers are tough. The travel, trying to get time, trying to get up on stage. You hear about the setbacks, and then, like, Chris Rock helped you get into the SNL orbit. Like, how? Well, how did you go from college to the.
Leslie Jones
Hey, hey, Fernanda. Fernanda, bring me that article. I had the article. They wrote an article on me when I did the contest. Yeah, Kelly Clarkson found it. The thing with Chris Rock was, it was so weird because every time I would see him, I was like, you know how funny I am. The only way I'm gonna make it is if you help me make it. Like you helped me make it. Like, it's gonna have to be a guy. Hey, hey, that article that's right there in my office, the article that Kelly Clarkson got me, it's right there in the office. I think it's in a frame anyway. And I'm like, chris. Every time I would see him, I'd be like, chris. I mean, I would literally run out to his car with him and be like, chris, Chris, what the fuck? And I remember him saying, you not ready. Now he tells the story saying, they not ready. And I was like, nah, motherfucker. You used to say it to me.
Sophia
Like, you said, it was me.
Leslie Jones
And I was like, how you talking about? I'm not ready. How you talking about I'm not ready. I am ready. Yes. This is so crazy. So this is the article.
Sophia
Oh, my God. That they wrote now on campus title.
Leslie Jones
Wow. No, what kills me is that when they entered, when they interviewed me, I said, I think a good comedian. This is. This is me at 19. I think a good comedian should be able to relate to the audience and talk about things in a natural way.
Sophia
Who is that person?
Leslie Jones
Who the fuck is that person? And where did I, you know, come? And the jokes I had literally would work now. I told a joke about my mom wanted me to be famous. She wanted me. She wanted me to be famous so bad that she would leave me in the grocery store. So then they would put me on the back of a milk carton. You remember when they used to put the missing kids on the milk carton?
Sophia
I sure do.
Leslie Jones
Somebody say, have you seen me? Yeah, have you seen me? Have you seen this little girl? And she said that. I said that when somebody go, girl, I saw your daughter on the milk carton. She'd be like, she's moving up. That was literally my first joke. And I'm like, okay, so I know what it's supposed to be about, right? I know what comedy. And I'm thinking jokes. Then I go back, I leave college, I go back to LA to start trying to do comedy. And I'm not doing good because I'm not understanding that comedy is jokes. Yes, but comedy is also what you said, the natural way. It's. It's. Don't talk about shit that don't have nothing to do with you. So that's why I saw. I opened up for Jamie Foxx did terrible. And the story is that I got my friend to, you know. You know, like, you're gonna have to take one for the team. Like, you know, I sent her in, the guy who was best friends with Jamie, like, he liked her. And I was like, you have to take one for the team, cuz. Cause I need to. I need to, you know, talk to Jamie. So the only thing I talk to Jamie is that if we can hang out with them. So she did. She took one for the team. And Jamie told me exactly what I need to hear. He said, you're so young, you don't have shit to talk about. As he was like, I know you think you have stuff to talk about, but you don't. You talking about your fucking uncle and milk carton. That shit don't even sound real. He's like, and even if it was funny, you're not. You're not Experienced enough to tell the joke. He was like, go out and have a life. Go live your life. Go get your heartbroken. Go break some hearts. Go get jobs. Go get fired. Go have a life and then come back. And I was like, yeah, that's exactly what I did.
Sophia
God, that's great advice.
Leslie Jones
It was absolutely great advice. And just like you said, it found me in the first place, it found me again after that. In 93. I got into an argument with the girl, the girl that we were living together, and we got into this argument and she was like, yeah, and you always talking about you want to be a fucking comedian, but. But you don't go up. And I was just like. I went upstairs and I called the Comedy Act Theater, Michael Williams. And he just so happened was answering the phone, and answered the phone, the owner of the club. And I said, hey, how do you do comedy? If I wanted to be a comedian, what would I do? How would I get time? And how would I do that? And he was like, are you funny? And I was like, man, I really do think I am, but I just don't know. I've never really been up. He was like, all right, come down. 7:30.
Sophia
Wow.
Leslie Jones
I was there, 7:00 o', clock, sitting in the parking lot, trying to talk myself out of doing it. I was like, what the fuck are you doing here?
Sophia
Wow.
Leslie Jones
Like, what are you doing here? This is. I don't know if this is gonna work out like it. And I was just so petrified. And I remember going inside and there was three comedians there. And this is my first lesson in comedy and is they were like, what kind of jokes you got? And I was like, oh, I got jokes about this, this, and it was like, somebody else already got those jokes. And then it was the first lesson that. And it was always something. Because what people didn't understand is I came from the hood. Like, I came from, like, crackheads, crack dealers, you know, I came from, like a hood where you had to be smart anyway. So, like, it's like taking the street to the street. Knowledge that I have told me. Yeah, they. They trying to fuck with me. Like, why are you talking to me? Why? If I'm not nothing, then why are you talking to me? You must be nothing too, because you here at seven o'. Clock. Because if you were something when you be here when the club is, you know. Yeah.
Sophia
Wouldn't you be here at 10?
Leslie Jones
Yeah, I wasn't stupid, right? So I was like, all right, whatever. And I remember performing that night and I didn't get Booed. And it was. People were laughing. So when I came off stage, the. The manager. Not the manager I talked to, but the manager that runs the room. Sharon, who. Today, I really feel like every club needs a Sharon. She was a. She was a gatekeeper. She's the one to go. Don't come back to my club unless you funny. Like, don't come back here. But she came up to me, she said, oh, you. You got potential. You got a lot of potential. She was like, keep writing and keep coming back. Keep coming back. Time for you. So I was like, great. And I started getting better and better. And at three months, I won a contest. I beat, like, veterans. I beat veterans. So, you know, at three months, you thinking, you know, you're a little cocky, and you're like, oh, shit, I must be. This is what, you know, hey, this is how Rich Pryor did it. I bet you Rich Pryor did like this. And it's just lessons you gotta learn. I remember meeting David Chappelle, and at that time, too, I was. Well, I was a hot bitch. Ooh, I was hot. I was. I mean, I'm not saying I'm not hot now, but I'm saying I'm a different type of hot.
Sophia
I understand that.
Leslie Jones
Long hair, beautiful body. Cause I just, you know, stopped playing basketball, so my body was just like, pow, pow, pow, and just gorgeous. And I'm talking about, oh, my God. Like I said, I'm so glad I came from the street, because them comedians, some of the lines they would give me. And I always knew, never get high on your own supply. It's the same thing. Never shit where you don't fuck people you work with. Right? So I already had the room.
Sophia
I learned that lesson the hard way.
Leslie Jones
Yeah, no, no, we all do, but we. I. This dude, and. And I knew I shouldn't have did that. I could have the dude next door. It was the same guy, so I know.
Sophia
Oh, my God, that's.
Leslie Jones
You know, you learn that. But that, you know, the media, the. Yeah, if you. You can come on the road with me, but you gotta have sex with me. Like, you know, you outlandish that.
Sophia
People would say to me, men are so embarrassing.
Leslie Jones
And I. And I would just check the f. I wouldn't fuck you with my. Go away. You know, I was just like, you know. And I would make them laugh, but, like, you'll never touch me. Like, you'll never. You know what I'm saying? You have to. It's just so many things that I was learning in that three Months. And I remember talking to a veteran and I was like, how long is it gonna take me to make it? I was like, how long is it gonna take me to be like the funniest bitch? Cause I really wanted to be funny. I made a prayer to God before I started. I said, if I'm not funny then, you know, let me still be in the field. But if I wanna be a comedian, if I'm funny, I don't want to be it. If I'm just pretend funny and it's like, put the work into it. And he told me, he was like 10 years. He was like, you got to get all that out. He was like, first three years is you telling fart jokes and pussy jokes and ass jokes. He was like, that's the two or three year old dope telling jokes. Like, you know, right?
Genentech/Novartis Ad Voice
Yeah.
Sophia
You have to mature as a comedian, as a storyteller.
Leslie Jones
Yeah, you gotta be, you gotta learn how to be on stage. You gotta learn if you're gonna have a drink on stage, if you're gonna hold the mic, you gotta learn all that stuff, you know. He was like, and then your fourth and fifth year is when you start kind of making money off of your shit. He said, it may be a little earlier because you are funny. He was like, but you still gotta pay dues. It's just, you just gotta pay em, you know, you gotta go through hecklers. I went through all the stages of it, you know. So.
Sophia
Yeah.
Leslie Jones
And I tell comedians when you try to skip the stage, you're not doing any good for you as an entertainer or for your audience, you're not doing anyone any good. It's always good to have a. I always think three pigs, three pigs, three pigs. The one that lived is the one that had the bricks. He had a strong foundation. Your shit can't blow away. You gotta. And the only way you can have a strong foundation is to work. You don't want a doctor that just said, woke up one day and said, I'm gonna be a doctor. You want a doctor that's been trained, that's been in the field, that knows, that's had experience. When I went to go get my knee checked, I remember my aunt telling me, make sure that he does surgery. This is not. No, every once in a while, shit, make sure that he has a surgery schedule every week. Like you ask him, do you do surgery or is this just a case you taking on? And I remember my knee doctor laughing. He was like, that's a good question. He said, I do all the left knees on Wednesday and all the right knees on Thursday. And I was just, like, loved. You know what I mean? It's shit like that.
Sophia
Yeah.
Leslie Jones
Then he's confident, because you don't want a doctor that's gonna be like, I think I'm good. You know, people tell me I'm. You don't want that. And that's.
Martha Stewart
And then.
Leslie Jones
And that's what makes me mad, that when people see that type of confidence on me, I promise, Sophia, I don't know what it is, but when people see that type of confidence on me, everybody tries to break it.
Sophia
Well, the world hates a confident women. And frankly, people are very jealous of anyone who makes an artistic life. And so I think the envy and also the loathing from this, you know, white, heteronormative patriarchy we all suffer under. Like, I think it really bends people out of shape to see women embody themselves and. And laugh at themselves and survive their mistakes and thrive in their careers. Like, they really get butthurt about it.
Leslie Jones
And I'm telling you, it's a thing. You see it like, they go. It's. First of all, they go, oh, this is just a.
Martha Stewart
This.
Leslie Jones
This is a fluke. This is a fluke that she's.
Genentech/Novartis Ad Voice
This is.
Leslie Jones
She's getting lucky. And then they say, I'm not lucky. And then they go, oh, she's arrogant. We need to break her down. You know, I'm not saying that that. That happened with everybody at snl because Lorne had much respect for me. The one thing that I loved about Lorne Michaels is that he knew exactly who I was. He knew exactly what I could do. He understood me in a way, and he loved that. He loved it because he was like, oh, like, you know how to work a room. You know how to be this when it needs to be this. You know how to be this when it needs to be this. He says, you know how to work. So that's the one thing that Lauren. But the people. Some of the people that work there were just very. How can I put it? Like, you. You just. You just. I can't explain this. Like, you're just too. You're. You're too what? Confident? Like, I know what I want. I'm sorry? I know what I want. I know you think you know everything, and that was the thing. There were people that worked there for years, and they think they knew everything, which they probably did. But you don't know me, motherfucker.
Sophia
Yeah, like.
Leslie Jones
Like, you should be open to learning. You should. Like, when I Go into hair rooms and all that. I always say the white hair people should be able to do black hair because black hair people know how to do white hair. Like, I'm very much vocal on shit like that because I feel like. Like building your portfolio is a very important thing. Yes. And never know everything. And I learned that. I learned that again coming up. In comedy, you always gonna learn. They threw me into SNL as a stand up to a sketch comic. And that shit is not fucking easy to. And baby, my ego had to learn that.
Sophia
Yeah.
Leslie Jones
Cause I'm gonna tell you, I didn't go in there with respect for sketch comedy. I didn't go in there with no respect. I was like, these are sketch comics. These are motherfuckers who couldn't make it and stand up. That's the attitude I had.
Sophia
And baby.
Leslie Jones
Yeah. And baby, I sat down to that table read.
Sophia
Yeah.
Leslie Jones
And these commenced to doing shit that I have never seen before. Yeah. Kate McKinnon and changing her accents in a Next Level. Keenan changing his accents. And do Cecily doing literally raw characters. I was just. I literally was at the table like this the whole time. Like, I can't.
Sophia
That's so crazy.
Leslie Jones
I was missing my lines. Cause I was so like, oh my God. And they loved me. I love that they loved me because I was their audience. Seriously. I sat down like I was about to watch a show. Every table read. And they loved it because I really love that. Exactly how. I'm telling you, this is how the audience is going to react to that shit. If I didn't laugh, most likely that sketch didn't get it. Was it my first year. It was like Wonderland being in those.
Sophia
Yeah. It's like you win the lottery once a week. Come on.
Leslie Jones
And that's how I play. And that's how I. That's why I brought a spirit there. Because I would come on Saturday and I would literally yell, we playing baseball tonight, motherfuckers. Like it was, you know, you pumped the whole room up, you know.
Sophia
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Like I, I love SNL and I love comedy, but it's like to be in love with what you do, I think is so important and also to love art. Like I notice something like I'll go to a show, especially if you go like somewhere in LA or somewhere in New York and like everyone's like standing around watching the singer sing. Kind of like maybe doing that. I'm, I'm ass on the floor, screaming, dancing. Like my friends and I are the people who will get the whole Room dancing. I'm like, we are at a show, like, have the time of your life and make that person who is up there doing his or her thing feel good.
Leslie Jones
And like, let me tell you, it's so important. The first gala I went to, Bruno Mars was performing, right? So I'm sitting beside 80, and I'm like, okay. I don't know about y', all, but I was like, okay. He came and started performing for me and my table because it was like nobody else. But by the end of that night, everybody was out. They seat even. Yes.
Sophia
And everybody had the time of their life, didn't they?
Leslie Jones
And he. I remember him saying to me, girl, thank you. He was like, because they wouldn't do it. It's like, I have the most fun.
Sophia
Yes.
Leslie Jones
Because, you know, you, like, I've had such so many things happen to make you go, all right. You could either be fucking a bum and just be depressed and die, or you could take this as a lesson that life is be lifeing and you better. Life. Life.
Sophia
Yeah.
Leslie Jones
Doesn't that you.
Sophia
But you better give it right back.
Leslie Jones
Give it.
Sophia
Can I ask you something? I'm so. You know, because that's clearly part of your spirit, and it's your tenacity, and it's all these things. And I wonder when you reflect, especially on snl, like, do you think it gives you a perspective? Because not only is it comedy, but it's so topical. Like, you are able to really reflect on the world around us. You are able to. To make fun of all the politicians. I mean, I think about Melissa McCarthy doing Sean Spicer. I think about, like, God, I think about. You had to be there when Trump hosted in 2015.
Leslie Jones
But I think about that. But we. I didn't at that time, Sofia. I didn't. He wasn't the president, and I thought it was hilarious. Everybody in New York was something. He sucks. Everybody was so pissed he was coming. But I thought it was hilarious because I'm like, he's the Apprentice. He's harmless. I literally was like, he's fucking harmless.
Sophia
Like, he's a mosquito.
Martha Stewart
Why?
Sophia
Who cares?
Leslie Jones
He's the fucking Apprentice. What the fuck?
Sophia
Oh, God.
Leslie Jones
I didn't know he was dangerous until the host meal. And that's when Melania, Jared, and Ivanka was there. And I was. I remember looking at Taryn and I said, taryn, I think I'm supposed to kill this whole side of the table. And he was like, can I get my food first? Let me get my food and get it to go. And Then do whatever you need to do. Because. And I always think back to that. I said, was I supposed to? Because, like, none of this would be going on if I. I would be in jail. Yes, but I might have saved the world. And everybody was like, no, it's okay.
Sophia
Oh, my God. Okay.
Leslie Jones
That you didn't murder the. I love it.
Sophia
I also love that you'll just say it like something I love about you.
Leslie Jones
You know, everybody fucking thinks it, and they know what they know.
Sophia
Like, in all the years that I've been a fan of your work, like, you're. You're not especially politically cautious. You're blunt. You're willing to say the thing. Like, has that ever cost you? Do you ever get scared? I mean, shit's cost me for sure. So I'm like, I don't.
Leslie Jones
I had to really learn how to deal with the business part of this business.
Sophia
It's hard.
Leslie Jones
You can't talk to certain people in a certain way because they can't take it. Like, you have to. I could be real, and I usually am. Very real. But what I learned is I, as the star, can't say it. I have to get someone else to say it. I gotta always look pristine. And even when I handle something, it has to be. But what I've learned, and then my mistakes, is how to kind of be in the middle with it. I speak. I don't yell anymore. Because I used to yell, because I used to think that's the only way people could hear me. Because it always seemed like that's the only time that people would do it, when I would go the off or when I would yell. But then I started learning that you're gonna love this. So I live my life by the God, the Godfather, a little bit just by the brothers. Okay? So sometimes I can be Sunny, but sometimes if I'm Sunny, I might get shot up at the Toble. So sometimes I can only use Sunny every once in a while. Sunny cannot come out because, like, everybody's scared of Sunny, right? Every. Everybody. Not my assistants. My assistants do not like when Sonny come out. But they know how to handle Sonny. Like, my assistants are great. They know how to handle Sonny, and. And. And my friends know how to handle Sunday Sonny, but the people outside of my circle don't know how to handle Sonny. Yeah, Sonny is very, like you said, blunt. What the fuck? Why is this happening? I need. You know what I'm saying? But so Sunny's can't come out. So sometimes I'm Fredo, very vulnerable and like, okay, But I don't understand why this can't happen. Like. Okay, okay, okay. I'm just telling y' all right now that this is what I. That's Fredo. Michael is the. That just patient, and he says what he wants and he doesn't repeat it because you heard me the first time. I don't have to repeat what it is. We've worked with me before. You know that. I don't take no. Go talk to my manager. Like he would send them to Tom, his lawyer. Go talk to Tom. You don't get. You don't get to talk to me unless I want to be present. So. So that's how sometimes you have to handle the business.
Sophia
I love that.
Leslie Jones
And everybody has a Sunny. Everybody has a Michael.
Sophia
Everybody has a show.
Leslie Jones
What I love about my writer, Lenny, he'll go, I need you to be Michael. I need you to be Michael today.
Sophia
Wow. I love that.
Leslie Jones
Okay, good.
Sophia
Okay.
Leslie Jones
And then he'll.
Sophia
I love it, Sonny. I love it. The Three Boys from the Godfather and the Three Ghosts of Christmas Past. We've really.
Leslie Jones
We've.
Sophia
We've really covered some shit today.
Leslie Jones
This is what I'm saying, Sophia. When you listen to stuff like this, right, and you hear this, right, we as humans, we know what right and wrong is. Yeah, we know what right and wrong is. Now. There's a such thing as that. If you don't know, then that's. Will give you the. The plausible, you know, deniability. But you do better when you know better and stop fighting your conscience. Your conscience is trying to tell you to grow, and it's okay to grow. You guys always think of. Of. Of things like this. Painful. It's suffering. Oh, I'm going through. No, you're growing. You're growing. Your mind doesn't want no more. Your mind is telling you, I want to grow, and you keep feeding me. Yeah, and there's a lot of us that fight that, because a lot of us think, I just want to be a normal person. I just want to go to work every day. I want to pay my bills. I want to come home and watch tv. I want to do. No, no, no, no, no. No one is normal. No one is. Is normal. No one is excluded from what it is that your fucking fate and your job is.
Sophia
Is.
Leslie Jones
Even if it's just being a teacher, even if it's being a crossing guard, even if it's just getting up and giving people compliments every day, you have a job. You are a specific piece of art that was made by God and You have one purpose in life, and that is to be you. Stop trying to be other people because that you fell in the mission be you. You are special. There's something about you, something about you that you're supposed to be given to someone. And that's what I always tell everybody. The only way that we're gonna beat what's going on right now, it's very obvious. The only way. The only way that this gets beat is that everybody has to start dicking. Digging deeper into themselves. Digging deeper into themselves. Because the only thing that's gonna beat this much hate is love.
Sophia
Yeah.
Leslie Jones
I promise. You don't want to hear that. But that's the only thing that's gonna. If we.
Sophia
But it's true.
Leslie Jones
Even the fights between the races, The. The Asians now hate the blacks, and then the Mexicans hate the Asian. All that shit is for a reason. To keep us bundled up so we don't fight. What the fuck is really right there
Sophia
in front of us if we're busy fighting each other? We're not fighting the top of the power structure.
Leslie Jones
That part.
Sophia
That part, Sophia, that's what has to change. That is what has to change.
Leslie Jones
Absolutely. It starts inside. It starts inside. It starts inside. Everybody needs to think about what it is that they are as a person.
Sophia
Yeah.
Leslie Jones
What it is that they receive. How do you receive love? Start there. Because you can't get what you don't have. You can't give. And if you look inside yourself, you'll look and see that you haven't. Like I tell people all the time, whenever somebody be like, oh, I'm just so stupid. Don't say that.
Sophia
Stop talk about yourself like that.
Leslie Jones
Don't talk. Yourself doesn't know when you're joking yourself. Don't know. It just takes it in and it builds that. That little bad thing that attaches on you. And now you got that. Stop doing that.
Sophia
Yeah, like.
Leslie Jones
Like when you've done something to be like, oh, man, I can't believe I did that. Well, let's not make that mistake again. Do that.
Sophia
Yes, you're right.
Leslie Jones
Do that. Because. Would you tell your friend that. Would you say to your friend, you're a dumbly. Yeah, you're so stupid. Why would you make that? You wouldn't talk to your friend like that. You wouldn't talk to your kids like that. Why you talk to yourself like that? You go to sleep so you see yourself in the morning. You eat with yourself. You're pissed with yourself. You shit with yourself. You're sick with yourself. You better start liking yourself. That's your best friend.
Sophia
Yes.
Leslie Jones
Stop it. Stop.
Sophia
Can't wait. I can't wait to clip that audio and make it my ringtone. Thank you for the pep talk. And now a word from our sponsors who make this show possible. This is for those who experience allergic reactions from food, medicine, insects or other allergy triggers. About 60% of patients do not consistently carry their epinephrine needle injectors, which scares me. And that's why I wanted to tell you all about our new friends at nefi. NEFI is the only needle free epinephrine nasal spray for those who weigh 33 pounds or more. It's used for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which is a big deal. NEFI works as well as a needle injector and it's designed to be safe and easy to use at the first sign of symptoms, so in a high stress moment, you can quickly treat an allergic reaction. NEFI is also small and discreet, so it's easier to carry as part of your everyday routine. That way, you always have it with you if the unexpected happens. You can pay as little as $0 for at least four Nefi devices, two packs through the copay Savings program with commercial insurance if eligible. Patients should not pay more than $199 for NEFI. If you have medical conditions or take certain medicines, your condition may worsen, so tell your doctor about nasal heart, thyroid or kidney issues, high blood pressure, Parkinson's, diabetes if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, and all medications you take. Side effects include nasal discomfort, headache, runny nose, shakiness and throat irritation. These are not all side effects. Before you get a new epinephrine prescription or refill, ask a doctor about Needle Free nephew today. Visit nefy.com that's N-E-F-F-Y.com or call 1-877-my-NEPHI to learn more that Invite to brunch. You're hesitating because brunch isn't just brunch for you. When you've got food allergies, it's research, preparation and food avoidance. But over time, you've learned to plan, prepare and stay safe. And you still show up anyway. Welcome to at the Table, the food allergy podcast brought to you by Genentech and Novartis. Each episode pulls up a chair to a different table, from date nights to tables abroad, and explores what it really means to navigate each moment while still eating safely. Join Tyler Florence, a chef who was diagnosed with 42 food allergies as a child and Jenna Ushkowitz, a mom navigating food allergies every day. Together, they discuss real stories from people living with food allergies. The challenges, but also the wins. Because living with food allergies isn't just about what you can't eat. It's about still having your seat at the table. Listen to at the Table, the food allergy podcast on America's number one podcast network, iHeart. Follow at the Table and start listening on the free iHeartRadio app today. Choices Aren't they great? It's why Plan B made over the counter emergency contraception legal more than 20 years ago because now you have a backup plan and a choice that's freedom to be. Plan B is the number one OB GYN recommended emergency contraception. It is not an abortion pill. Get it immediately at all major retailers in store or delivery. Use Plan B emergency contraception as directed within 72 hours after unprotected sex. The sooner you take it, the better it works.
Martha Stewart
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Sophia
and Aleve is here to keep you on the go. Whether it's planes, trains or automobiles, Aleve's got your back. With up to 12 hours of back pain relief with just one dose, you will get to your destination and be ready for your next adventure. So pack your sunscreen, your shades and your Aleve. No matter where your final stop is, A leave will keep you moving from sun up to sundown. A leave's got your back this summer. Feel Aleve. Use as directed for minor aches and pains. I want to talk with you all day and I also want to pump up me too.
Leslie Jones
Sophia we have to be friends.
Sophia
Do you live in LA for real?
Leslie Jones
What have I seen you on? I recognize that mole. I don't know what I've seen you on. What have I seen you on? I recognize that mo. You look. You look like. But not Kristen Bell.
Sophia
If you like cop stuff. Did you watch Chicago pd?
Leslie Jones
I saw.
Sophia
And, like, svu. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Leslie Jones
I've seen your face. I don't forget a face. Sophia. Oh, my God. I'm excited now.
Sophia
I'm gonna. I love this.
Leslie Jones
You are gorgeous.
Sophia
You sweet, Sweet.
Leslie Jones
I mean, the whole ponytail with the perfect down the middle.
Sophia
It's just because my hair's dirty.
Leslie Jones
And then you got the rings. You got the rings on like you about to pop a. In the face.
Sophia
Listen, you wanna. You talk about the Godfather. I'm like, I was joking about this. I got to host the View last week, and I'm, like, sitting there talking shit with Whoopi and Sunny. And, you know, I was like, look, things are crazy. I don't know. All these people need to go to jail. Like Michelle Obama says, when they go low, we go high. Like, my mom was raised in the Bronx. When you go low, I'm gonna meet you in the fucking gutter.
Leslie Jones
When you go low, I'm going to hell.
Sophia
Yes. When Sonny goes, Sonny goes. I'm going to the core of the earth. I said, okay, that's the mood for 2026. But it's like, for you, you're out on a standup tour right now, and I. And I think about this, because obviously you're talking to people in cities all over the place about what's going on. You're making it funny.
Martha Stewart
Yeah.
Sophia
But you're giving people pep talks. And you are also traveling around the nation. Like, some places you go are going to be less receptive than others.
Leslie Jones
No, what's.
Sophia
What's, like, the core of the tour? Where are you going? How are you thinking about talking to people in 2026?
Leslie Jones
I go everywhere. I go everywhere. And you know what's amazing? My. See, you could tell by a comedian, their audience. My audience is so amazing. They tip, they're nice, they're polite, they're there for comedy. It's a great audience. But you know what's so crazy? I have fans that I don't. And when I see them in the audience, I go, oh, you're.
Sophia
You're like, what?
Leslie Jones
That's really cool. You know what I'm saying? But I don't see what I see on the Internet.
Sophia
I know it's different.
Leslie Jones
I see a Whole different type of people. They are.
Sophia
All, this is why we need to be together. Exactly.
Leslie Jones
And even when I go out in the towns and walk around, like, I forgot where it was we went, and I was like, this is. I don't see. I don't. Racist. I don't see. I don't see what. What. What it is that we're reflected on the Internet. And I really believe that's why we don't need to be on it all the time and get out and meet real people. Because my audience is everywhere I go. They're awesome. And I love touring. I love talking to people. I love making people laugh.
Sophia
Where do people get the info on the rest of the tour? Do they go on my Instagram?
Leslie Jones
And also my. My special that I did on Peacock is on YouTube now. So, yes, we got all kinds of things. And then the. The show is coming out on hgt Roast my rental.
Sophia
I'm so excited. I want to do an HGTV so bad.
Leslie Jones
We gotta work together.
Sophia
We have to.
Genentech/Novartis Ad Voice
Yes.
Leslie Jones
I think I know what I want you for.
Sophia
Okay.
Leslie Jones
My God, this could be interesting. I was thinking about who could do it, and now I know. And you have the perfect face for it.
Sophia
From this moment, like, you have so much going on. You've accomplished so much, but, like, when you're a storyteller, when you're insatiably curious, you. You always want to do the next thing. What feels like your work in progress right now.
Leslie Jones
I want to. I want to do a drama. I would love to do a drama. I would love to play a serial killer, actually. You know what I'm saying? I would just love, like, you know, it's really good when a comedian plays that type of part because it's really creepy and fun, and I just. I want to do something like that. I want to love that. Yeah. I want a role where I'm crying, You know?
Sophia
You want your viola moment. 18 years. The best cry I've ever seen anyone do on camera. I think about it twice a week.
Martha Stewart
What?
Leslie Jones
Viola Davis.
Sophia
Oh, my God. In Fences, when she's looking at Den.
Leslie Jones
Oh, my God, the snot coming out.
Sophia
I was like, her whole face, it's so crazy. And she does that. Beautiful. Like, her teeth are gritted. And she's like, 18 years. And the growl. And I'm just like, I. I worship at the Church of Viola. Like, that's it. I'm done.
Leslie Jones
I love Bassett. When she was.
Sophia
Oh, my God.
Leslie Jones
351 times. 351.
Sophia
When Angela Bassett has the moment where she goes when she takes like the breath before she starts in on you and you're just like, I'm gonna die now. And I want. Want to like she's. So anyway, we could talk about them.
Leslie Jones
Yeah, we can.
Sophia
Oh, yeah, I love that. A drama. Maybe a killer like you wanted to be. You wanted to be the cop in the bone collector, but now you want to be the killer in the bone collector.
Leslie Jones
Wouldn't that be interesting? As. And then just psychopath. Like I laugh.
Sophia
So let's make a. Let's make a drama together. I'll arrest you.
Leslie Jones
You'll arrest me or will I arrest you?
Sophia
You'll have to tune in to find out, listeners. I'm obsessed with you. This was the best hour ever. Thank you for coming on the show. Congratulations on the tour. Obviously, everyone's gonna jump and watch. Your special tour dates are at Leslie Dash Jones. Dash. Tour. Dash. No, I'm. I'm saying that wrong. That's. I'm sorry.
Leslie Jones
Instagram.
Sophia
I'm like, that's not right. Find tour dates on Leslie's Instagram where you can visit lesliejonestour.com I don't know what the I'm doing. I'm tired. Okay. Send me a text message. We have things to do.
Leslie Jones
Yes, ma', am, we do.
Sophia
And I will see you soon. I hope.
Leslie Jones
I hope so too.
Sophia
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Xolair omalizumab is proven to significantly reduce allergic reactions if a food allergy accident happens. Xolair 150mg is a prescription medication used to treat food allergy in people 1 year of age and older to reduce allergic reactions due to accidental exposure to one or more foods while taking Xolair. You should continue to avoid all foods to which you are allergic. Don't use if you are allergic to Xolair. Xolair may cause a severe life threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Tell your doctor if you have ever had anaphylaxis. Get help right away if you have trouble breathing or if you have swelling of your throat or tongue. Xolair should not be used for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Xolair is for maintenance use to reduce allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, while avoiding food allergens. Serious side effects such as cancer, fever, muscle aches and rash, parasitic infection or heart and circulation problems have been reported. Please see xolair.com for full prescribing information. Ask an allergist about Xolair this is an advertisement for Xolair, paid for by Genentech and Novartis.
Leslie Jones
I'm U.S. transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The sound of a seatbelt. It's one of the most important sounds in our car. It means everyone is ready and everyone is safe. The more our kids see us put on our seat belts, the more natural it is for them to put theirs on, too. Make it a priority. Buckle up every time. Hear the sound. Make it a habit. Paid for by nhtsa Honey, Felipe sent
Sophia
another photo from Argentina.
Martha Stewart
How?
Leslie Jones
With T Mobile, of course.
Martha Stewart
Mira.
Sophia
He's video calling us.
Leslie Jones
Hola, familia. Did you get my photos?
Martha Stewart
We did.
Sophia
They're so pretty.
Leslie Jones
Here to share every moment with T Mobile. Enjoy Data roaming at no extra charge in 21 Latin American countries. Switch now on the TLife app or T Mobile qualifying plan required. Not for extended international use. You must reset in the US and primary usage must occur in our network.
Sophia
Visit t mobile.com it's summertime and a lead is here to keep you on the go. Whether it's planes, trains or automobiles, Aleve's got your back. With up to 12 hours of back pain relief. With just one dose, you will get to your destination and be ready for your next adventure. So pack your sunscreen, your shade, and you're Aleve. No matter where your final stop is, Aleve will keep you moving from sun up to sundown. Aleve's got your back this summer. Feel Aleve Use as directed for minor aches and pains.
Leslie Jones
This is an iHeart podcast.
Sophia
Guaranteed Human.
In this lively and candid episode, Sophia Bush continues her conversation with the iconic Leslie Jones, exploring the journey from aspiring comedian in college to SNL star, touring comic, and evolving storyteller. The discussion weaves through hard-won lessons in comedy, the realities of being a confident woman in entertainment, the unique rollercoaster that is SNL, navigating industry pitfalls, the power of self-love, and Leslie’s vision for her creative future. Brimming with laughter, vulnerable stories, and sharp wisdom, the episode is a deep-dive into what it means to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress.
"You not ready. Now he tells the story saying, they not ready. And I was like, nah, motherfucker. You used to say it to me." — Leslie [04:19]
"I think a good comedian should be able to relate to the audience and talk about things in a natural way." — Leslie [05:30]
"You're so young, you don't have shit to talk about... Go out and have a life... and then come back." — Jamie Foxx via Leslie [07:39]
"Yeah, that's exactly what I did." [08:08]
"Keep writing and keep coming back." — Sharon to Leslie [10:27]
"First three years is you telling fart jokes and pussy jokes ... you got to get all that out." — Comedy veteran to Leslie [13:02]
[13:31] Leslie likens building a comedy career to the story of the three little pigs:
"The one that lived is the one that had the bricks. He had a strong foundation. Your shit can't blow away. The only way you have a strong foundation is to work." — Leslie [13:31]
[14:45] On how confidence is perceived and policed:
"When people see that type of confidence on me, everybody tries to break it." — Leslie [14:46]
"The world hates a confident woman." [14:57]
[15:45] Reflections on SNL:
"You just... you're too what? Confident? ... You don't know me, motherfucker." — Leslie [16:44]
"I didn't go in there with respect for sketch comedy. ... I sat down to that table read and these commenced to doing shit I have never seen before... I was missing my lines. Cause I was so like, oh my God." — Leslie [17:42/18:21]
"I sat down like I was about to watch a show. Every table read. And they loved it because... this is how the audience is going to react." — Leslie [18:22]
[25:26] Sophia and Leslie discuss the need to show up fully, whether on stage or in the crowd:
"Bruno Mars was performing ... He came and started performing for me and my table because it was like nobody else. But by the end of that night, everybody was out their seat even." — Leslie [25:26]
"He said, 'Girl, thank you. Because they wouldn’t do it.'"
[26:02] Leslie on resilience:
"You could either be fucking a bum and just be depressed and die, or you could take this as a lesson that life is be lifeing and you better. Life. Life." — Leslie [26:02]
"At that time, ... I thought it was hilarious because I’m like, he's the Apprentice. He's harmless. ... I didn’t know he was dangerous until the host meal. ... I said, 'was I supposed to kill this whole side of the table?'" — Leslie [27:06–27:31]
"Sometimes I can be Sunny... but sometimes if I'm Sunny, I might get shot up at the table." — Leslie [28:49]
"Sometimes I'm Fredo, very vulnerable and like, okay..."
"Michael... he says what he wants and he doesn't repeat it because you heard me the first time."
"We as humans, we know what right and wrong is... Stop fighting your conscience. Your conscience is trying to tell you to grow, and it’s okay to grow." — Leslie [31:37–32:22]
"You are a specific piece of art that was made by God and you have one purpose in life, and that is to be you. Stop trying to be other people because that you fell in the mission be you." [32:41]
"The only thing that's gonna beat this much hate is love." [33:31] "Stop talking about yourself like that... Yourself doesn't know when you're joking... and now you got that. Stop doing that." [34:27-34:41]
"You're sick with yourself. You better start liking yourself. That's your best friend." — Leslie [34:50]
"I go everywhere. ... My audience is so amazing... I don't see what I see on the Internet. ... That's why we don't need to be on it all the time, and get out and meet real people. ... I love touring. I love talking to people. I love making people laugh." — Leslie [42:33–43:41]
"I want to do a drama. I would love to do a drama. I would love to play a serial killer... I want a role where I'm crying." — Leslie [44:29]
Leslie Jones shows how tenacity, self-awareness, and humor can power not only a career but a joyful, authentic life. Through stories, candor, and sharp comedic wisdom, she and Sophia Bush celebrate what it means to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress — and remind us all to value our own, unique presence in the world.
Find Leslie’s tour dates: Leslie’s Instagram or lesliejonestour.com
Watch her special on YouTube!