Work in Progress: Dylan Mulvaney

Podcast: Work in Progress with Sophia Bush
Host: Sophia Bush
Guest: Dylan Mulvaney
Release Date: March 13, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt and engaging episode of Work in Progress with Sophia Bush, Sophia welcomes comedian, storyteller, and vibrant personality Dylan Mulvaney to discuss her newly released book, "Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer." Sophia sets the stage by highlighting the essence of Dylan’s book, which combines humor, personal anecdotes, and profound reflections on her journey before and after her transition.

Sophia Bush [00:30]: "In this book, Dylan pulls back the curtain on her life from the it girl online lifestyle to witty and intimate reflections of her journey, both pre and post transition... all of it."

Behind the Scenes: Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Fundraiser

The conversation kicks off with Dylan and Sophia reminiscing about their recent experience at the prestigious Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards fundraiser. They share their excitement and the whirlwind of emotions felt during the event.

Dylan Mulvaney [02:30]: "I think this was my third one. I'm also really happy because I've been on a few podcasts lately where like, this comes out in five months, but this one will actually come out fairly soon."

Sophia Bush [04:06]: "It was a lot."

They recount interactions with notable personalities, including Hunter Doohan and Michaela J. Rodriguez, emphasizing the supportive and joyous atmosphere of the evening.

Creative Pursuits and Personal Growth

Dylan delves into her creative endeavors, discussing her ventures into comedy, writing, and participating in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She reveals how her passion for storytelling evolved into writing her book, initially envisioned as a lighthearted collection of diary entries.

Dylan Mulvaney [13:19]: "I wanted to write the book... it ended up being this thing that was deeply healing for me."

Sophia and Dylan explore the challenges of maintaining creativity while managing personal growth and the pressures of public life. They touch upon the importance of being mission-aligned and the struggle to balance multiple projects without burning out.

Navigating Identity and Transition

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Dylan's journey with her gender identity and transition. She shares intimate details about the emotional and mental challenges she faced, including dealing with transphobia and finding her true self amidst public scrutiny.

Dylan Mulvaney [32:56]: "I'm either going to believe this, what they're saying about myself, and I'm going to take it on as part of me, or I'm going to acknowledge that what they're saying is not true about myself because I know who I am."

Sophia comments on the impact of external opinions and the internal struggle that comes with being a public figure. The conversation underscores the resilience required to stay true to oneself in the face of criticism and misunderstanding.

Coping with Public Scrutiny and Mental Health

Sophia and Dylan discuss the toll that public life takes on mental health, especially for transgender individuals. They highlight Dylan's experiences with online harassment, media portrayal, and the importance of supportive relationships.

Sophia Bush [32:55]: "Reading your words when you talked about it took my breath away because I know exactly how that feels."

Dylan emphasizes the necessity of distancing oneself from negative comments and reinforcing self-identity to combat the mental and emotional noise generated by external negativity.

Dylan Mulvaney [33:17]: "I had to be very clear about who I was."

The Power of Support Systems

The episode beautifully illustrates the significance of strong support systems. Dylan credits her close friends, like Lily, her life coach Mori, and Alok, for providing unwavering support and helping her navigate the complexities of public life and personal growth.

Sophia Bush [50:19]: "I have actually done so much by myself for so long. I tend to show up for other people, but I very rarely ask people to show up for me."

Dylan echoes this sentiment, recognizing the importance of leaning on trusted individuals to maintain mental well-being and personal stability.

Future Aspirations and Hope

Looking ahead, Dylan shares her aspirations of becoming a Broadway diva and her commitment to telling stories that bring joy and provoke thought. She discusses her book's role in healing and empowering herself, as well as its potential impact on readers.

Dylan Mulvaney [24:15]: "I want to be a Broadway diva who gets to tell stories... I want to make people laugh, especially at some of the dark things, like through transness and identity."

Sophia and Dylan explore the concept of hope versus optimism, with Dylan articulating a balanced perspective that acknowledges the realities while maintaining hope for positive outcomes.

Dylan Mulvaney [63:00]: "It's a balance of realism versus hope... I have a plan B, C, and D that can still get me through and that I can still live a full life, hopefully."

Closing Thoughts

The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of authenticity, community, and self-acceptance. Sophia and Dylan emphasize that embracing one's true self and fostering supportive relationships are crucial for personal growth and happiness.

Sophia Bush [43:44]: "It's important to remind myself that it's also not my real life and be in my life as much as I can."

Dylan Mulvaney [46:09]: "You have that arsenal of incredible humans to tap into, you should use it."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sophia Bush [00:30]: "In this book, Dylan pulls back the curtain on her life from the it girl online lifestyle to witty and intimate reflections of her journey, both pre and post transition... all of it."

• Dylan Mulvaney [13:19]: "I wanted to write the book... it ended up being this thing that was deeply healing for me."

• Dylan Mulvaney [32:56]: "I'm either going to believe this, what they're saying about myself, and I'm going to take it on as part of me, or I'm going to acknowledge that what they're saying is not true about myself because I know who I am."

• Sophia Bush [32:55]: "Reading your words when you talked about it took my breath away because I know exactly how that feels."

• Dylan Mulvaney [63:00]: "It's a balance of realism versus hope... I have a plan B, C, and D that can still get me through and that I can still live a full life, hopefully."

Conclusion

This episode of Work in Progress with Sophia Bush offers an intimate glimpse into Dylan Mulvaney's life, her creative journey, and the resilience required to thrive in the public eye as a transgender woman. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, Sophia and Dylan provide listeners with inspiration, hope, and a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding identity and personal growth.