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Society & Culture

What I've Learned

Esquire

Esquire’s long-running interview series comes to life in audio format in this podcast hosted by editor-in-chief Michael Sebastian. In each episode, Michael sits down with actors, athletes, directors, musicians, writers, comedians, politicians and other legendary figures for a candid interview to pull back the curtain and reveal the hard-earned wisdom each has gleaned. 

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  • 16 episodes
  • Avg 37 min
  • English

Episodes 16

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  • Wednesday · 46 min

    Hasan Minhaj on Fatherhood, Losing "The Daily Show" & Ronny Chieng | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Hasan Minhaj has built a career turning headlines into comedy, but the biggest lessons he’s learned have come from navigating success, setbacks, and everything in between. In this episode of the “What I’ve Learned” podcast, the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning comedian sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on fame, fatherhood, and what it takes to keep creating through adversity. Watch as Minhaj opens up about losing the opportunity to host “The Daily Show,” the message he'd like to send to Prince Harry, and why an $85,000 Pizza Hut commercial changed his life. He also discusses “Best of the Best,” his comedy partnership with Ronny Chieng, and the importance of joy and representation. Stream “Best of the Best” on Netflix September 18th. Get tickets for "Hasan Hates Ronny | Ronny Hates Hasan" here: https://www.hasanhatesronny.com Listen to the “Hasan Minhaj Doesn't Know” podcast here: https://lemonada.lnk.to/HasanMinhajDoesntKnowYT #HasanMinhaj #BestOfTheBest #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • September 2 · 33 min

    Adam Scott on Losing "The Office" to John Krasinski & Landing "Parks & Rec" | What I’ve Learned

    Adam Scott has spent decades bringing complicated and hilarious characters to life on screen, but the lessons he’s learned extend far beyond the roles. In this episode of the “What I’ve Learned” podcast, the Emmy-nominated actor sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on why not getting “The Office” was ultimately meant to be and how a cult following brought “Party Down” back more than a decade later. Watch as Scott opens up about everything from knowing the ending of “Severance" and what he learned acting alongside Robert De Niro in "The Whisper Man" to attending Taylor Swift’s wedding and what the first line of his obituary would say. Watch "The Whisper Man" on Netflix. #AdamScott #TheWhisperMan #Severance #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • August 12 · 38 min

    Aaron Sorkin on Why AI Will Fail, Facebook & The Future of America | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Aaron Sorkin has spent decades writing some of the most influential stories in film and television, but the biggest lessons he’s learned extend far beyond the page. In this episode of the “What I’ve Learned” podcast, the Academy Award-winning writer and director sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on the craft of writing, the power of dialogue, and why storytelling matters, especially in the age of AI. Watch as Sorkin opens up about addiction and recovery, what he learned from Rob Reiner, why he’d like to revisit “The Newsroom,” and how becoming a father and surviving a minor stroke changed his perspective. He also discusses “The Social Reckoning,” Facebook’s influence on modern life, and why he still believes America can turn things around. Read Aaron Sorkin’s full Mavericks of Hollywood profile here: LINK TK #AaronSorkin #MavericksOfHollywood #HowIGotHere #Esquire

  • July 6 · 26 min

    Aaron Judge on Fatherhood, Failure & Being a Yankee | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Aaron Judge has become one of the defining athletes of his generation, but the biggest lessons he’s learned have come far beyond the baseball diamond. In this special first-ever live taping of the “What I’ve Learned” vodcast, the Yankees Captain sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian the Yankees Captain sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian in front of an audience at Ralph Lauren’s flagship New York store to reflect on growing up in a small California town, being adopted, learning from failure, and what it truly means to wear the pinstripes. Judge opens up about developing the routines that transformed his career, why legacy is about much more than home runs and MVP awards, and how fatherhood has changed the way he experiences baseball. He also shares what it means to represent the Yankees on and off the field before answering questions from young fans in the audience. Check out Aaron Judge’s Esquire cover here: https://www.esquire.com/sports/a71604174/aaron-judge-interview-2026/ #AaronJudge #Yankees #NewYorkYankees #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • June 25 · 47 min

    Johnny Knoxville on Bulls, Broken Bones & The “Jackass” Final Chapter | What I've Learned | Esquire

    Johnny Knoxville built a career doing things most people would never dream of, but the biggest lessons he’s learned have nothing to do with getting shot out of a cannon or hit in the crotch. In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” the “Jackass” co-creator and frontman sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on the birth of “Jackass,” the influence of Hunter S. Thompson, and the people who shaped him, from his prank-loving father to his lifelong friends. Knoxville opens up about grief, becoming a dad at a young age, and what it means to finally feel comfortable in his own skin. He also shares stories behind some of his most infamous stunts, including getting shot in a bulletproof vest, tearing his urethra, and surviving a brutal encounter with a bull. See “Jackass: Best and Last” in theaters now. #JohnnyKnoxville #Jackass #JackassMovie #JackassBestandLast #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • June 15 · 47 min

    Jon Bernthal on "The Odyssey," Fatherhood & Owning His Mistakes | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Jon Bernthal is known for playing tough guys, but some of his biggest lessons came far away from a film set. In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” the actor sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to discuss fatherhood, masculinity, and the moment that changed the direction of his life. From working with Christopher Nolan on “The Odyssey” and reuniting with Tom Holland to reflecting on marriage, friendship, and showing up for the people you love, Bernthal shares why empathy and vulnerability are just as important as strength. Get tickets to “Dog Day Afternoon” on Broadway here: https://dogdayafternoon.com/ Check out Jon Bernthal’s Esquire profile here: https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/a71271445/jon-bernthal-the-punisher-the-bear-odyssey/ #JonBernthal #DogDayAfternoon #TheBear #TheOdyssey #SpiderManBrandNewDay #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • April 20 · 33 min

    David Spade on Chris Farley, 'SNL' & His Feud With Eddie Murphy | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    David Spade built a career on saying what everyone else is thinking, but some of his biggest lessons came behind the scenes. In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” the comedian, actor, and podcaster sits down with Esquire editor-in-chief Michael Sebastian to talk about his iconic ‘SNL’ years, memories of Chris Farley, and the moments that shaped him, from “buh-bye” becoming a cultural catchphrase to navigating his feud with Eddie Murphy and almost playing Joey on ‘Full House.’ Watch as he reflects on being tattooed by Sean Penn, trading notes with comics like Nate Bargatze, processing loss over the years, sharing how he’s handled fame, failure, and why you just have to keep going. See 'Busboys' in theaters now. Watch 'Outcome' on AppleTV. #DavidSpade #Outcome #Busboys #SaturdayNightLive #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • S1 · E8
    April 14 · 25 min

    Aryna Sabalenka on Coco Gauff, Smashing Rackets & Perfecting Her Serve | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Aryna Sabalenka is one of the top tennis players in the world, but getting there wasn’t easy. In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” she talks with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian about losing control of her serve, what really happened after her match against Coco Gauff, and the lessons she learned from her father. From training with men to smashing rackets and balancing two completely different personalities on and off the court, Sabalenka shares how she learned to stay in the fight. Read Aryna Sabalenka’s full Mavericks of Sports profile here: https://www.esquire.com/sports/a70884977/aryna-sabalenka-interview-2026/ #ArynaSabalenka #MavericksOfSports #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • S1 · E7
    April 2 · 38 min

    Arsenio Hall on Tupac, Prince & Saving 'Coming to America' | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Arsenio Hall changed late night forever, then made the decision to walk away on his own terms. In this episode of "What I’ve Learned," the comedian, actor, and talk show host sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on fame, fatherhood, and the lessons behind his new memoir Arsenio, including why he turned down films like "Bad Boys" and chose to be present for his son. From saving "Coming to America" to his friendship with Pamela Anderson and behind-the-scenes stories about Tupac, Eddie Murphy, and Prince, Arsenio shares why making people laugh is what matters most. Get your copy of Arsenio’s self-titled memoir here: linktr.ee/arseniohall #ArsenioHall #Arsenio #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • February 26 · 46 min

    Will Reeve on Grief, Resilience, and Carrying His Parents’ Legacy | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Will Reeve grew up in extraordinary circumstances. As the son of Christopher Reeve, the first Superman the world came to love, he learned resilience and purpose early on after a horse-riding accident left his father paralyzed. In this episode of "What I’ve Learned," the award-winning journalist, ABC News correspondent, and "Good Morning America" contributor sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to discuss grief, marriage, and the lessons that continue to shape him. Reflecting on the compassion and strength modeled by his mother, Dana Reeve, as well as the overwhelming support of his father’s friends, including Robin Williams, Will explains why he wouldn’t change a thing about his life. #WillReeve #ChristopherReeve #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • S1 · E5
    January 28 · 33 min

    A$AP Rocky on Fatherhood, Faith, and Becoming a Modern Renaissance Man | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    A$AP Rocky has lived many lives, from growing up in Harlem to becoming a modern Renaissance man, global artist, designer, and father. In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” he sits down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on faith, family, creativity, and the moments that shaped him, from working with Denzel Washington and Rose Byrne to collaborating with Tim Burton on his new album 'Don’t Be Dumb.' Rocky opens up about becoming a girl dad, his relationship with Rihanna, and surviving his toughest chapters.

  • S1 · E4
    Dec 10, 2025 · 23 min

    Bowen Yang on ‘SNL,’ Old Habits, and the Culture That Shaped Him | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Bowen Yang has spent the past six years becoming one of the most distinctive voices on "Saturday Night Live." In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” the comedian, actor, and Las Culturistas co-host talks with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian about early controversy, fame, and staying grounded across "SNL" and "Wicked." From role models like Conan O’Brien and Tina Fey, to burnout, identity, and the art of unlearning, Esquire’s cover star reflects on the work and perspective that got him here. Watch ‘SNL’ on NBC or stream on Peacock. Watch ‘Wicked: For Good’ in theaters now. #BowenYang #SNL #SaturdayNightLive #Wicked #WickedForGood #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • S1 · E3
    Dec 8, 2025 · 37 min

    Jason Bateman on Child Stardom, Sobriety, & Four Decades in Hollywood | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Jason Bateman has been working in Hollywood since he was ten years old, and he’s learned a lot along the way. In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” the star sits down with Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on child stardom, getting sober in his thirties, and building the lasting marriage and career that followed. Watch as the actor, director, and SmartLess co-host opens up about four decades in the business, raising two daughters, and what really keeps him grounded in a world built on illusions. Check out Jason Bateman’s Esquire cover here: https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/a69605877/jason-bateman-what-ive-learned/ Stream ‘Black Rabbit’ on Netflix. #JasonBateman #BlackRabbit #ArrestedDevelopment #Smartless #Ozark #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • S1 · E2
    Oct 20, 2025 · 29 min

    Jonas Brothers on Fatherhood, Fame, and Two Decades of Music | What I've Learned | Esquire

    The Jonas Brothers have learned a few things after 20 years in the spotlight together. In this episode of “What I’ve Learned,” Nick, Joe, and Kevin Jonas sit down with Esquire Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to look back on two decades of music, fame, and brotherhood. From their Disney days to solo careers, fatherhood, divorce, and life on tour, the brothers open up about family, faith, and the future of the band. Read the Jonas Brothers digital cover story here: https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/music/a69062100/joe-nick-kevin-jonas-brothers-interview-2025/ Stream 'Greetings From Your Hometown' here: https://jonasbrothers.lnk.to/greetingsfromyourhometown #JonasBrothers #NickJonas #JoeJonas #KevinJonas #GreetingsFromYourHometown #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

  • Oct 16, 2025 · 37 min

    Marc Maron on Rage, Regret, and Learning To Let Go | What I’ve Learned | Esquire

    Marc Maron has made a career out of brutal honesty both on stage, on his podcast, and in life. In the premiere episode of Esquire's new video podcast, “What I’ve Learned,” the comedian, actor, and "WTF" host sits down with Editor-in-Chief Michael Sebastian to reflect on three decades of lessons in art, addiction, grief, and growth. From his role in the upcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic "Deliver Me From Nowhere" to his complicated friendship with Louis C.K. and ongoing feud with Jon Stewart, Maron opens up about aging, ego, and what it really means to evolve. Listen to the final episode of #WTFPod here: https://www.wtfpod.com/ Stream ‘Marc Maron: Panicked’ on HBO Max. 'Deliver Me from Nowhere' is in theaters October 24th. #MarcMaron #Panicked #DeliverMefromNowhere #WhatIveLearned #Esquire

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