Season 2 of "Dua Lipa: At Your Service" showcases Dua Lipa delving into Greta Gerwig's groundbreaking direction of "Barbie," Trevor Noah's comedic evolution, Monica Lewinsky's advocacy against public shaming, and Dan Levy's creative journey behind "Schitt's Creek."
Season 2 of "Dua Lipa: At Your Service," Dua Lipa converses with Douglas Stuart about the profound societal issues in 'Shuggie Bain.' She navigates the world of journalism with Dean Baquet, former executive editor of The New York Times. Pedro Almodóvar shares his unique storytelling style and the Spanish cultural influences on his films. Greta Gerwig discusses the transformation of a doll into a cinematic sensation in "Barbie." Mo Farah reveals his harrowing journey from being trafficked to the UK to becoming an Olympic champion. Dita Von Teese touches on her collaboration with Harry Styles and teaching Taylor Swift her signature martini glass routine. Dan Levy speaks about his new HBO Max series "The Big Brunch" and the success of "Schitt's Creek." Brandon Wolf emphasizes the importance of advocacy after surviving the Pulse nightclub shooting. Trevor Noah reflects on his South African roots and the challenges of hosting "The Daily Show." Bryan Stevenson underscores the racial bias and challenges within the American justice system. Charli XCX offers a glimpse into her music career and the tension between commercial success and underground roots. Min Jin Lee explores the Korean immigrant narrative through her novels. Monica Lewinsky confronts public shaming, cyberbullying, and the power dynamics of her past.
June 16, 2023
Guest Bio:
Douglas Stuart is a Scottish-American writer celebrated for his debut novel 'Shuggie Bain,' which won the 2020 Booker Prize. Born in Glasgow, Stuart moved to New York City and initially pursued a career in fashion design. His literary acclaim came with 'Shuggie Bain,' a semi-autobiographical work that explores a family's struggle with poverty and addiction in 1980s Glasgow. The novel has received widespread critical acclaim, solidifying Stuart's reputation in the literary world.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
Recorded live at the Hay Festival, a globally renowned literary event, this episode features a conversation between Dua Lipa and Douglas Stuart focused on 'Shuggie Bain,' the inaugural book for the Service95 Book Club. The dialogue transcends mere book promotion, delving into societal issues like addiction, poverty, and love that the novel addresses. Described as filled with "crackling conversation," the episode also contains strong language and serves as an intellectual and creative exchange between two artists from different disciplines.
December 9, 2022
Guest Bio:
Dean Baquet is an American journalist born on September 21, 1956, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He served as the executive editor of The New York Times from May 2014 until stepping down in 2022. Baquet began his journalistic journey at The Times-Picayune in his hometown before moving on to the Chicago Tribune. It was at the Tribune that he won a Pulitzer Prize in 1988 for investigative reporting on corruption in the Chicago City Council. Over his four-decade-long career, Baquet has been a staunch advocate for journalistic integrity and has served on the Pulitzer Prize Board since 2011.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
The episode, clocking in at just under an hour, serves as the season finale for Dua Lipa's podcast. The guest, Dean Baquet, brings a wealth of experience from his time as the executive editor of The New York Times. The conversation is a deep dive into the world of journalism, exploring not just the mechanics but also the ethics that guide the profession. Baquet discusses the challenges he faced while leading one of the world's most influential news organizations, including dealing with the rise of misinformation and the evolving landscape of digital journalism. The episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the media, offering a nuanced look into the responsibilities and challenges that come with leading a major news outlet in today's complex world.
December 2, 2022
Guest Bio:
Pedro Almodóvar is a Spanish film director, screenwriter, and producer born on September 25, 1949, in Calzada de Calatrava, Spain. He has been a significant figure in Spanish cinema since the 1980s. His films often explore themes of sexuality, passion, and identity. Almodóvar gained international prominence with his 1988 film "Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown," which was nominated for an Academy Award. His 1999 film "All About My Mother" won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. He has also received numerous other awards, including two European Film Awards and four BAFTAs.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
In this episode, Pedro Almodóvar joins Dua Lipa for an in-depth conversation that delves into his filmmaking career, his unique storytelling style, and the themes that pervade his work. Almodóvar discusses his early influences, including Spanish culture and his own experiences growing up in a small town. He also talks about his frequent collaborations with Penélope Cruz, describing how their working relationship has evolved over the years. One of the highlights of the episode is when Almodóvar reveals the challenges he faced while making "Pain and Glory" (2019), a semi-autobiographical film that earned Antonio Banderas a Cannes Film Festival Best Actor Award.
November 25, 2022
Guest Bio:
Greta Gerwig is a distinguished figure in contemporary cinema, both as an actress and a director. She gained widespread acclaim with her directorial debut, "Lady Bird," which received five Academy Award nominations. Her adaptation of "Little Women" in 2019 was another milestone, earning six Oscar nominations. Gerwig's films often delve into the complexities of femininity and the human condition. Her recent work, "Barbie," broke box office records, becoming the highest-grossing opening weekend for a film directed by a woman. She co-wrote the script for "Barbie" with Noah Baumbach, and the film has been praised for its unique approach to a character often dismissed as a mere doll.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
Greta Gerwig joins Dua Lipa for an insightful conversation that covers her journey in the film industry, her unique storytelling style, and the themes that run through her work. Gerwig discusses her recent blockbuster, "Barbie," revealing how she and her team managed to turn a doll into a cinematic sensation. The film explores themes of femininity and societal expectations, much like her previous works "Lady Bird" and "Little Women." Gerwig shares that the script for "Barbie" came out of a desire to do something "wild and anarchic" post-pandemic. The film has been praised for its humanist story that goes beyond the sparkly costumes and blowout parties. The episode concludes with Gerwig discussing the challenges and rewards of directing a film that has become a cultural phenomenon.
November 18, 2022
Guest Bio:
Mo Farah is a British long-distance runner who has won four Olympic gold medals and six World Championships, making him the most successful male track distance runner in history. He has been honored with the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017. Farah has also been involved in philanthropic efforts, including the Mo Farah Foundation, which aims to provide aid to people affected by drought in the Horn of Africa.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
Mo Farah joins Dua Lipa for a conversation that goes beyond his athletic achievements. The episode delves into Farah's early life, revealing that he was trafficked to the UK from Djibouti as a child. Farah discusses the emotional weight of carrying such a significant secret and expresses his hope that by sharing his story, he can help others seek the help they need. The episode serves as a platform for Farah to discuss issues that are often overlooked, including the complexities of human trafficking and the emotional toll it can take on individuals.
November 11, 2022
Guest Bio:
Dita Von Teese, often hailed as the "Queen of Burlesque," has been instrumental in reviving the art form of burlesque performance for contemporary audiences. Beyond the stage, she has ventured into acting, with roles in television shows such as "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" and "RuPaul's Drag Race." Her entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her authored works on the history of burlesque and fetishism, as well as in her business ventures that include a lingerie line and a perfume collection. She has also lent her voice to social causes, notably as a spokesperson for MAC Cosmetics' Viva Glam campaign, which aims to raise funds for HIV/AIDS research.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
In this episode, Dita Von Teese delves into the intricacies of her multifaceted career, discussing her recent cameo alongside Harry Styles in the film "Don't Worry Darling," and sharing the story behind teaching Taylor Swift her signature martini glass routine. She also talks about her impact on the modern burlesque scene, her entrepreneurial ventures including her lingerie and perfume lines, and her advocacy work, particularly her involvement in MAC Cosmetics' Viva Glam campaign for HIV/AIDS research.
November 4, 2022
Guest Bio:
Dan Levy, the Emmy-winning creator and star of "Schitt's Creek," has made a significant impact on television with his nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters. The show, which he co-created with his father, Eugene Levy, has won nine Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series. Levy has also won individual Emmys for Outstanding Writing and Outstanding Supporting Actor. He is currently working on a new HBO Max series, "The Big Brunch," and has roles in upcoming projects like Netflix's "Sex Education," Disney's "Haunted Mansion," and The Weeknd's HBO series "The Idol."
Episode Summary and Highlights:
In a conversation with Dua Lipa, Dan Levy discusses his career trajectory, including the challenges and triumphs he has faced. The episode touches on Levy's new HBO Max series "The Big Brunch," a cooking competition that celebrates undiscovered culinary voices. Levy also shares insights into the success of "Schitt's Creek," attributing its widespread acclaim to its timing during the pandemic and its themes of love and family. The episode delves into Levy's upcoming projects, including his directorial feature film debut.
October 28, 2022
Guest Bio:
Brandon Wolf is a survivor of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting and has since become a leading advocate for gun safety and LGBTQ rights. He has been a powerful voice in efforts to shift gun policy in America, serving on the Advisory Board of The Pride Fund to End Gun Violence. Wolf has also been a top national surrogate on Senator Elizabeth Warren’s Presidential Campaign. He co-founded The Dru Project, an LGBTQ youth organization that has provided over $100,000 in college scholarships. Wolf has been recognized as one of Huffington Post’s 30 LGBTQ Influencers Under 30 and Business Equality Magazine’s 40 LGBTQ Leaders Under 40.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
Dua Lipa is joined by Brandon Wolf, who shares his harrowing experience of surviving the Pulse nightclub shooting and how it propelled him into advocacy. The episode delves into Wolf's work in gun safety legislation and LGBTQ rights, including his role as a top national surrogate on Senator Elizabeth Warren’s Presidential Campaign. He also discusses The Dru Project, an organization he helped to found that focuses on cultivating inclusive school environments and providing scholarships to emerging queer leaders.
October 21, 2022
Guest Bio:
Trevor Noah is a South African comedian, television host, and political commentator, best known for his tenure as the host of Comedy Central's "The Daily Show." Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Noah began his career in his home country before gaining international prominence. He has received numerous accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award. Noah is also an author, with his autobiography "Born a Crime" detailing his life growing up in apartheid South Africa. The book became a bestseller and is being adapted into a feature film.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
In this episode, Trevor Noah joins Dua Lipa for a candid conversation that covers a range of topics. Noah discusses his journey from South Africa to becoming the host of "The Daily Show," as well as his decision to step down from the role. The episode also delves into Noah's book "Born a Crime," exploring its themes and the upcoming film adaptation. Additionally, Noah shares insights into his comedy style, his views on the current political climate, and his future projects.
October 14, 2022
Guest Bio:
Bryan Stevenson is a Harvard Law School graduate who founded the Equal Justice Initiative in 1989. The organization provides legal representation to prisoners who may have been wrongly convicted, unfairly sentenced, or abused in state jails and prisons. Stevenson has argued and won multiple cases at the U.S. Supreme Court, including a landmark ruling that mandatory life-without-parole sentences for children 17 or younger are unconstitutional. He is the author of the critically acclaimed memoir "Just Mercy," which was adapted into a feature film. His work has earned him numerous awards, including the MacArthur Foundation "Genius" Grant and the NAACP Image Award.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
The episode featuring Bryan Stevenson delves into the intricacies of the American justice system, focusing on issues like mass incarceration, racial bias, and the death penalty. Stevenson shares his experiences of representing marginalized individuals, particularly Black men, who have been unjustly sentenced. He discusses the concept of "proximity" to suffering as a catalyst for meaningful change. The episode also explores the politics of fear and anger that have fueled mass incarceration. Stevenson's insights are not just an indictment of the system but also serve as a call to action, urging listeners to get involved and make a difference.
October 7, 2022
Guest Bio:
Charli XCX, born Charlotte Emma Aitchison, is a British singer-songwriter and record producer. She gained prominence with her debut album "True Romance" in 2013. Her 2014 single "Boom Clap" charted worldwide, and she received critical acclaim for her mixtape "Pop 2" in 2017. Charli XCX has been nominated for two Grammy Awards and has won several other accolades, including two Billboard Music Awards. She is also known for her collaborations with artists like Iggy Azalea and Troye Sivan. Her latest album, "Crash," was released in 2022.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
The episode aired on October 7, 2022, and runs for 46 minutes. Charli XCX and Dua Lipa delve into the complexities of being a pop musician, discussing topics ranging from the challenges of touring to work-life balance. Charli XCX shares her experiences in the music industry, particularly the tension between achieving commercial success and staying true to her underground roots. She also talks about the mental toll that touring takes on her and how her relationship has been a grounding force in her life. The episode concludes with Charli XCX offering her thoughts on up-and-coming artists in the music industry.
September 30, 2022
Guest Bio:
Min Jin Lee is a Korean-American author best known for her novel "Pachinko," which was a finalist for the National Book Award for Fiction in 2017. She has received numerous other accolades, including the New York Times 10 Best Books of the Year. Lee's work often explores the complexities of Korean history, the diaspora, and the immigrant experience. She is a graduate of Yale College and has a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. Her first novel, "Free Food for Millionaires," was also well-received and she is currently working on her third novel, "American Hagwon."
Episode Summary and Highlights:
The episode delves into Min Jin Lee's approach to novel-writing, emphasizing her meticulous research and dedication to emotional truth. She discusses her own immigrant experience, moving from Seoul to New York at age seven, and how it has influenced her storytelling. The episode also touches upon her internationally acclaimed novel "Pachinko," and her upcoming work, "American Hagwon." Lee shares that she might only write five books in her lifetime, aiming for each to be of the highest quality. The conversation also explores the broader themes of immigration, the role of women in society, and the importance of storytelling in today's world.
September 23, 2022
Guest Bio:
Monica Lewinsky is an anti-bullying campaigner, Vanity Fair writer, and producer. She gained notoriety in the late 1990s due to her affair with then-President Bill Clinton, which led to his impeachment. Since then, she has been an advocate against cyberbullying and has written extensively on issues related to public shaming and the #MeToo movement. She has produced documentaries, including the acclaimed '15 Minutes Of Shame'. Lewinsky also holds a degree in social psychology from the London School of Economics. She has been featured in a 2014 Vanity Fair essay called "Shame and Survival," dissecting the power dynamics between her and President Clinton.
Episode Summary and Highlights:
The episode delves into Monica Lewinsky's struggle to rebuild her life after the infamous affair with President Bill Clinton. The conversation between Dua Lipa and Lewinsky covers a range of topics from resilience and reclaiming narratives to the current state of women's reproductive rights. Lewinsky discusses her evolving relationship with feminism and the work that still needs to be done to prevent history from repeating itself. She also talks about the long-lasting trauma of the incident and how it has impacted her in the years since. The episode is a deep dive into the challenges of public shaming, cyberbullying, and the complexities of women's rights in the current socio-political climate.
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