Work in Progress with Sophia Bush
Episode: Work in Progress: Tony Hale
Release Date: August 7, 2025
Introduction
In this heartfelt episode of Work in Progress with Sophia Bush, host Sophia engages in an in-depth conversation with the Emmy-winning actor Tony Hale. The discussion delves into Hale's latest project, the fantasy drama feature film "Sketch", and explores his personal and professional journey, including his experiences with creativity, anxiety, and parenting.
Discussion Highlights
1. The Journey Behind "Sketch" ([04:08] - [10:18])
Tony Hale introduces his profound role in "Sketch", where he portrays a devoted father in a fantastical world where his daughter's drawings come to life, bringing both chaos and familial closeness. Hale shares the eight-year odyssey he undertook to bring this movie to fruition, emphasizing his commitment to his creative vision despite numerous challenges.
Notable Quote:
"This movie exists in this fantastical world... but they wind up bringing the family closer together." — Tony Hale [04:24]
2. Creativity and Overcoming Obstacles ([10:32] - [15:14])
The conversation shifts to the difficulties in film production, particularly securing financing and maintaining faith in unconventional projects. Hale discusses the skepticism they faced, with some envisioning the film as reminiscent of The Babadook or Goosebumps, not fully grasping its emotional depth.
Notable Quote:
"The business is so easy getting a film together... but finding financing was another story." — Tony Hale [05:48]
3. Personal Struggles and Anxiety ([15:14] - [22:36])
Both hosts open up about their personal battles with anxiety. Ryan Reynolds shares his journey through therapy, learning to embrace his past without letting it define his self-worth. Hale relates by discussing the importance of recognizing one's value regardless of external successes.
Notable Quote:
"The value you have today is going to be the exact same value you have after whatever success you think is like, success." — Ryan Reynolds [08:10]
4. The Paradox of Success and Contentment ([22:36] - [32:00])
Ryan Reynolds reflects on his early success with Arrested Development, explaining how initial fulfillment gave way to unexpected dissatisfaction. Therapy helped him realize the importance of practicing contentment in the present rather than constantly chasing the next big achievement.
Notable Quote:
"What's next? Because I don't... I've been just for so long. There’s nothing wrong with ambition... but I haven’t really taken the time to look around and ask myself, what's here?" — Ryan Reynolds [54:31]
5. Balancing Professional and Personal Life ([32:00] - [45:12])
The dialogue explores the delicate balance between career demands and personal life, especially parenting. Reynolds discusses his approach to supporting his daughter, emphasizing the need to listen without immediately offering solutions, a strategy he learned through personal and professional experiences.
Notable Quote:
"Do you want to talk about how to solve it, or do you just need someone to listen to the problem?" — Tony Hale [45:07]
6. Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity ([45:12] - [54:31])
Both speakers highlight the strength found in vulnerability. Hale shares insights from his therapeutic conversations, advocating for authenticity in interactions. Reynolds echoes this sentiment, noting the importance of being present and embracing the ordinary moments in life.
Notable Quote:
"There's a lot of power in kind of putting a label on it that's... like, I'm so fun." — Tony Hale [37:58]
7. Reflections on Parenting and Legacy ([54:31] - [60:05])
Reynolds and Hale discuss the long-term impact of their parenting styles, acknowledging that their children may one day seek therapy to navigate the complexities of growing up with anxious fathers. They emphasize the importance of empathy, listening, and allowing their children to develop resilience.
Notable Quote:
"There's no way I would not have empathy. All that kind of stuff is result of what I've been through." — Ryan Reynolds [47:48]
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with sincere acknowledgments of each other's efforts and a mutual appreciation for the depth of their conversation. Tony Hale expresses his enthusiasm for supporting Reynolds' future projects, while Reynolds commends Hale's ability to foster meaningful discussions.
Notable Quote:
"This is a real gift to a lot of people. You do in this though, because just being conversations, it's an opportunity to kind of get a little deeper." — Tony Hale [58:32]
Key Takeaways
- Persistence in Creativity: Tony Hale's dedication to producing "Sketch" underscores the importance of staying true to one's creative vision despite obstacles.
- Mental Health Awareness: Both hosts openly discuss their struggles with anxiety, highlighting the value of therapy and self-reflection.
- Balancing Success and Contentment: Learning to appreciate the present moment can lead to greater personal fulfillment than continuously chasing future goals.
- Empathetic Parenting: Effective parenting involves active listening and supporting children without immediately resorting to solutions.
- Embracing Vulnerability: Authenticity and vulnerability are portrayed as strengths that foster deeper connections and personal growth.
Notable Quotes Summary
- Tony Hale: "This movie exists in this fantastical world... but they wind up bringing the family closer together." ([04:24])
- Ryan Reynolds: "The value you have today is going to be the exact same value you have after whatever success you think is like, success." ([08:10])
- Ryan Reynolds: "What's next? Because I don't... I've been just for so long. There’s nothing wrong with ambition... but I haven’t really taken the time to look around and ask myself, what's here?" ([54:31])
- Tony Hale: "Do you want to talk about how to solve it, or do you just need someone to listen to the problem?" ([45:07])
- Tony Hale: "There's a lot of power in kind of putting a label on it that's... like, I'm so fun." ([37:58])
- Ryan Reynolds: "There's no way I would not have empathy. All that kind of stuff is result of what I've been through." ([47:48])
- Tony Hale: "This is a real gift to a lot of people. You do in this though, because just being conversations, it's an opportunity to kind of get a little deeper." ([58:32])
Final Thoughts
This episode of Work in Progress with Sophia Bush offers listeners an authentic glimpse into Tony Hale's artistic journey and personal life. The candid conversation emphasizes the importance of mental health, the challenges of balancing career and personal responsibilities, and the strength found in vulnerability and authentic connections. Whether you're a fan of Tony Hale, navigating your own creative projects, or seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode provides valuable insights and heartfelt reflections.