You Are Beautiful with Lawrence Zarian

LZ reunites with Chris Colfer, sharing stories about friends like Dot Marie Jones and reflecting on how his podcast began during the pandemic with first guest Jane Lynch and now closes Season 4 with Colfer. Zarian credits Glee and Colfer’s portrayal of Kurt Hummel with healing his own high school experience, while Colfer discusses difficulty accepting praise because Glee was a collective effort and because acclaim was intertwined with intense homophobia and trauma. Colfer describes realizing he was gay in high school, early inspiration from The Wizard of Oz and Mary Poppins, motivation shaped by his sister’s severe special needs, and encouragement from his grandmother Fonda.

They address losses of Cory Monteith, Naya Rivera, Mark Salling, and Colfer’s mother, grandmother, and aunt, and how grief changed his priorities. Colfer highlights his New York Times bestselling books, his film The Restoration of Grayson Manor, an upcoming adult novel, advice to guard attention and find supportive community, his long relationship with Will, and they briefly sing “Defying Gravity.”

Menu:

• 00:00 Reunion and Dot
• 00:45 Peaches and Aging
• 02:36 Podcast Origins
• 05:25 Chris Colfer Intro
• 06:58 Glee Changed Me
• 09:20 Praise and Trauma
• 11:17 Coming Out Stories
• 13:42 Wizard Beginnings
• 16:15 Mirror Reflections
• 19:43 Grandma Fonda Boost
• 21:02 Bullying and Kurt
• 28:04 Glee Family Fame
• 31:50 Reboot and Kurt
• 35:26 Loss and Gratitude
• 39:05 Awards and Wrap
• 40:02 Best Seller Breakthrough
• 41:24 Gay Identity And Art
• 44:30 Celebrating A Writing Legacy
• 45:54 Unapologetic Confidence
• 49:34 Restoration Film Deep Dive
• 54:25 Adult Novel Tease
• 55:19 Advice Finding Your Tribe
• 59:09 Relationship Secret Sauce
• 01:00:46 Desert Island Picks
• 01:03:44 Humor And Self Acceptance
• 01:05:40 Singing Defying Gravity
• 01:11:09 Beautiful Because Closing

LZ opens an “across the pond” episode of You Are Beautiful describing crushing his finger in a car door, then interviews 9-1-1 star Oliver Stark, who is recovering from a broken ankle suffered while performing a major stunt involving catapulting over burning cars onto a fire truck; he had surgery and uses a hands-free iWalk crutch, hasn’t missed work, and discusses resilience and identity.

Stark explains why he said yes to the podcast—greater self-comfort and valuing open dialogue—and talks about British “stiff upper lip,” his emotionally expressive father, and his relationship with his brother. He reflects on love languages (acts of service and words of affirmation), portraying Buck’s later-in-life bisexuality as one facet of the character that has helped fans and families, Buck’s growth and Season 10 fostering/parenting storyline, and how a recent low-budget indie film reignited his creative spark.

The episode ends with Stark’s affirmation: he is beautiful because he’s still learning and growing.

• 00:00 Across the Pond Intro
• 00:26 Smashed Finger Story
• 02:52 Oliver's Ankle Accident
• 05:24 Stunt Doubles and Safety
• 06:53 Recovery Mindset and Pain
• 08:52 Crutches and Home Obstacles
• 11:47 Why This Podcast Matters
• 14:05 Saying Yes to Vulnerability
• 18:06 Family Emotions and Upbringing
• 20:19 Sibling Dynamics and Growing Up
• 23:14 Finding Common Ground
• 23:57 Needs And Gratitude
• 24:09 Parents And Identity
• 27:04 Love Languages Talk
• 30:04 Playing Bisexual Buck
• 33:33 Representation And Stereotypes
• 39:25 Buck Growth Over Years
• 41:53 Season 10 Fatherhood Arc
• 44:00 Indie Film Creative Spark
• 47:13 Career Pride And Gratitude
• 49:42 Desert Island Rapid Fire
• 51:15 Mirror Affirmation Farewell

Lawrence Zarian interviews Tatyana Ali about self-image at age 46 while working in DC during Black Maternal Health Week, emphasizing gratitude, presence, and being “enough.” Ali explains the week’s role in drawing attention to Black maternal health amid healthcare cuts, hospital closures, and “maternal care deserts,” and stresses that Black women are three to four times more likely to die in childbirth, with over 85% of deaths preventable due to systemic healthcare bias, lack of consent, and inadequate postpartum care.

She shares her own obstetric violence experience and how respectful care with a Black midwife shaped her expectations and inspired Baby Yams blankets and quilts, which fundraise for doulas, midwives, and scholarships. Ali also reflects on child-actor life, regaining confidence after industry cruelty, memories from Fresh Prince, Broadway work in Fences, and advice to pursue art locally; she ends by saying she is beautiful because she never gives up.

Menu:

• 00:00 Twin Banter
• 01:40 Mirror Moment Enough
• 04:30 Black Maternal Health Week
• 06:00 Care Deserts And Joy
• 08:23 Why Death Rates Higher
• 10:18 We All Belong Story
• 15:05 Baby Yams Origin
• 20:12 Ashley Banks Spark
• 21:23 Finding The Cipher
• 24:44 Early Acting Beginnings
• 26:38 First Fresh Prince Day
• 28:20 Tom Jones Singalong
• 29:33 Fresh Prince Cast Texts
• 30:27 Desert Island Pick
• 31:47 Life as Raspberry
• 32:36 Broadway Fences Memories
• 35:32 Duet Dreams Rejection
• 37:12 Advice for Artists
• 41:45 Surprised by Life
• 44:17 Kindness Much Expected
• 48:55 Beautiful Because Closing

LZ interviews West End leading man Bradley Jaden, recently seen as Inspector Javert in Les Misérables: The Arena Concert at Radio City Music Hall, about the show’s renewed impact and Jaden’s approach to portraying Javert with increasing vulnerability and a visible “slow demise.”

Jaden discusses moving to New York and feeling lonely and overwhelmed by the sudden shift in attention, navigating introversion in an extrovert-facing career, losing significant weight after being told it would help his success, and living with body dysmorphia. He shares surviving a suicide attempt and how Les Mis has been therapeutic, enabling open conversations about men’s mental health.

They also cover his asthma as a childhood challenge that became a “superpower,” his stage name’s origin, his support network, and end with a brief lyric exchange and Jaden’s statement, “I… am beautiful because… I love deep.”

Menu:

• 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro
• 01:23 Mirror Check In
• 03:44 Les Mis Resurgence
• 05:02 New York Adjustment
• 09:09 Introvert in Spotlight
• 10:16 Weight and Image Pressure
• 13:57 Stage Name Origin
• 15:09 Career Gratitude and Growth
• 18:53 Support Network and Mentors
• 24:57 Why His Javert Hits Different
• 26:58 Javert Foundations and Auditions
• 31:57 Mental Health and Method
• 41:30 Audience Connection and Purpose
• 43:30 No Singing Lessons Reveal
• 44:01 No Sheet Music Needed
• 44:51 Finding Purpose in Small Wins
• 45:24 First Auditions and Miss Saigon Break
• 47:12 Les Mis Praise and Afterglow
• 48:09 Google Rumors and Relationship Truth
• 50:17 Learning Self Love
• 50:39 Five Things I Like About Me
• 53:58 Asthma Turned Superpower
• 55:58 Rapid Fire Broadway Picks
• 59:15 Singing Challenge and Stars Tease
• 01:05:58 Heartfelt Wrap Up and Beautiful Because

LZ interviews Jennie Garth on his podcast, discussing her book “I Choose Me,” its conversational tone, and themes of embracing emotions, acknowledging automatic negative thoughts, setting boundaries, and prioritizing time after loss and grief.

They talk about Garth’s upbringing in Illinois, her parents’ influence as educators who modeled helping others, self-reliance, and women’s empowerment, and how these lessons shaped her purpose.

Garth shares memories of her father’s death in 2008, missing his passing by moments, and reflects on the gifts her parents gave her. She recounts being cast on “Beverly Hills, 90210,” the intensity and global fame that left her feeling she missed a decade of personal development, and her bond with Luke Perry, including what he taught her about giving people what they need.

They touch on co-parenting and healing conversations with ex-husband Peter, QVC work, and close friendship moments, ending with Garth’s statement: “I am beautiful because I love deeply.”

Menu:

• 00:00 Pre Show Chaos
• 01:24 Outfit Compliments
• 02:32 Book Sets The Tone
• 06:35 Be Emotionful Excerpt
• 08:39 Negative Thoughts Tools
• 10:34 Aging Time Boundaries
• 12:44 Family Roots Midwest
• 14:15 Loss And Lessons
• 17:44 Parents Gifts Values
• 21:11 One Word Seeker
• 23:27 Messy Middle Wisdom
• 26:29 Crush Confessions
• 28:30 Dance Modeling Origins
• 30:50 Headshots And Identity
• 31:58 Dad Sees the Dance
• 32:50 Finding a Future
• 33:51 Landing 90210
• 36:22 First Days on Set
• 37:44 Fame Bubble and Lost Years
• 41:42 Luke Perry True Love
• 48:59 Cast Bonds and Missing Links
• 50:40 Desert Island and Ear Sniffs
• 55:36 Kelly Meets Jennie
• 01:00:25 Divorce Healing with Peter
• 01:04:32 Hustle and Rapid Fire
• 01:06:59 Closing Beautiful Because

LZ welcomes Debra Lee to “You Are Beautiful,” sharing his recent duet with Kelly Clarkson and introducing Lee as the former BET leader behind major cultural programming.

Lee recounts growing up amid segregation, learning to sew from her mother, and formative experiences with race, education, and ambition that led to Brown and Harvard Law, then a shift from Steptoe & Johnson to BET after meeting founder Bob Johnson. She discusses building BET’s legal department, leading the network through major growth, and the legacy of shows and events including BET Awards, BET Honors, and “The Game.”

Lee explains launching the Debra Lee Collection of Italian-made handbags named for loved ones, including her late son Quinn, and promotes debraleecollection.com.

She addresses divisiveness, attacks on DEI, advice on navigating abusive workplace relationships, and her memoir “I Am Debra Lee,” including her abortion decision and Me Too experience, ending with her definition of beauty as caring about people.

Menu:

• 00:00 Late Start and Big News
• 00:16 Dream Duet With Kelly
• 01:06 Why Debra Matters Now
• 02:26 Debra Lee Collection Origins
• 04:28 Growing Up With Segregation
• 08:19 First Job and Hair Bias
• 12:31 Why Handbags and Luxury
• 15:51 Naming the Bags Family Tribute
• 19:29 Timeless Investment and Quality
• 22:20 Third Phase Reinvention
• 28:33 Navigating Hate and DEI Backlash
• 34:09 Treat Everyone With Dignity
• 36:31 Basic Human Needs
• 37:29 Why BET Changed Everything
• 39:30 Leading BET to Excellence
• 41:36 Programming Legacy Highlights
• 43:24 Leaving After 32 Years
• 44:10 Mirror Question Self Image
• 47:39 Memoir Purpose and Lessons
• 49:26 Me Too and Abuse Story
• 52:45 Advice for Getting Out
• 55:54 Fun Rapid Fire Questions
• 01:08:15 Beauty Definition Farewell

LZ opens the podcast with playful Italian banter and a warm introduction of guest Marco Calvani, praising his work as a playwright, filmmaker, actor, and director, including Netflix’s The Four Seasons (as Cloud) and his film High Tide. They recount meeting at the LA Magazine Pride event, discuss the importance of making people feel seen, and reflect on kindness, dismantling patriarchal thinking, and “surrendering to the unknown.”

Lawrence shares his sobriety and family history, while Marco describes losing his parents young, finding guidance through theater, later uncovering anger, and forming new ways of connecting with his parents’ memory. Marco names mentor “mothers” Francesca De Sapio and V (Eve Ensler), explains meeting his husband Marco Pigossi during the pandemic, and describes discovering fear, anxiety, and self-love that fueled his writing and career shift.

They touch on sibling dynamics, rapid-fire hypothetical questions, and close with affirmations of gratitude, plans for dinner, and a promise to collaborate creatively.

Menu:

• 00:00 Cold Open Banter
• 00:19 Italian Greetings Bit
• 01:33 Marco Calvani Intro
• 05:12 First Meeting Story
• 08:28 Finding Your Tribe
• 11:00 Being Seen and Kindness
• 13:43 Surrender to Unknown
• 15:25 Parents and Light
• 18:25 Theater as Lifeline
• 20:50 Anger and Healing
• 24:58 Chosen Family Mentors
• 29:46 Siblings and Notes
• 31:01 Twin Competition Journey
• 32:44 Brotherhood and Dating Twins
• 33:15 How Marco Met His Husband
• 35:33 Pandemic Self Discovery
• 38:12 Meditation and High Tide Breakthrough
• 39:50 Identity Trauma and Choosing Light
• 42:49 Protecting the Writer Within
• 46:31 Four Seasons Character Talk
• 48:52 Fun Hypotheticals and Dinner Guests
• 52:03 Mirror Questions and Beautiful Mantra
• 54:34 Work Together and Warm Goodbye
•

•

LZ opens his “You Are Beautiful” podcast and interviews Tan France about what makes people feel beautiful, personal style, and self-image. Tan shares his daytime and evening go-to outfits, love of jewelry, and his husband’s style influence, then discusses coping with online criticism and the broader culture of cruelty. He reflects on looking in the mirror, gratitude for health after a recent benign scare, appreciation for his Pakistani skin after years of hating it due to racism, and his birth name pronunciation.

Tan recounts learning to sew as a child to make clothes for his mother and sister, navigating being queer and not fully out to family, and the nuance of being a visibly gay Muslim on Western TV. They discuss Queer Eye’s impact, production time with participants, meaningful and difficult “heroes,” Tan’s struggle with aging, marriage priorities, and advice for finding style by borrowing inspiration and building your own.

Menu:

• 00:00 Welcome You Are Beautiful
• 00:53 Meet Tan France
• 01:50 Signature Style Staples
• 06:09 Handling Online Hate
• 12:23 Mirror Check Self Image
• 15:45 Learning To Love Skin
• 17:11 Real Name Roots
• 18:41 Fashion Spark Sewing
• 21:50 Queer Eye Coming Out
• 25:08 Representation And Stakes
• 27:27 Rock Bottom Realization
• 27:37 Early Attraction Awakening
• 28:00 Dad’s Store Lessons
• 29:14 Watching Queer Eye Hurt
• 30:31 Why Style Matters
• 31:08 Makeover Intimacy Method
• 32:02 Queer Eye Time Limits
• 34:07 Choosing Stores and Stylists
• 36:31 Hero Who Changed Him
• 37:58 When Heroes Resist
• 38:38 A Racist Hero Incident
• 40:53 Favorite Feel Good Episodes
• 42:01 When Self Care Slips
• 44:13 Struggling With Aging
• 46:33 Gay Men and Beauty Pressure
• 48:48 Off Camera Fab Five
• 51:15 Marriage Secret Sauce
• 52:12 Dating and LA Insecurity
• 53:39 Finding Signature Style
• 54:58 Beautiful Because Authentic

LZ introduces his podcast “You Are Beautiful,” born from pandemic isolation, weight gain, and his Achilles rupture, and welcomes Melissa Etheridge.

Etheridge says she learned “mirror work” during chemotherapy for breast cancer 22 years ago, training herself to say “Hello, gorgeous” and define beauty from within. They discuss oneness, choosing one’s feelings, and course-correcting negativity through gratitude and staying general rather than focused on life’s details. Etheridge describes a major awakening after over-consuming cannabis edibles, later followed by her breast cancer diagnosis, which propelled study of spirituality and plant medicine. She speaks about son Beckett’s opioid addiction and death in May 2020, emphasizing, “I cannot get sick enough to make a sick person well.”

Etheridge recounts her musical beginnings in Kansas, coming out, early women’s-bar circuit, discovery at Pasadena’s Vermie’s, the “Bring Me Some Water” breakthrough, her bald 2005 Grammy performance during chemo, and writing her new album “Rise,” including “Call You.” They discuss advice for LGBTQ people and parents, and she advises LZ for his upcoming duet with Kelly Clarkson, then sings a snippet of “I Wanna Come Over.”

Timestamp Menu:

• 00:00 Welcome You Are Beautiful
• 01:07 Why This Podcast Exists
• 03:03 Melissa Mirror Work
• 05:01 Oneness Gratitude Reset
• 09:16 Advice For Angry Mornings
• 13:44 Awakening Cancer And Cannabis
• 18:15 Loss And Loving Through Addiction
• 24:51 Leavenworth Roots First Guitar
• 27:10 Coming Out And Early Career
• 29:51 Finding Work in LA
• 30:12 Underground Women’s Scene
• 30:48 Label Pressure and Coming Out
• 32:36 Breakthrough Single Origins
• 36:07 Chemo and Grammy Comeback
• 39:38 Awards and Artistic Purpose
• 40:57 Songwriting Process and Inspiration
• 43:18 Rise Album and Personal Loss
• 46:13 Strength, Identity, and Community
• 48:29 Advice for LGBTQ People and Parents
• 52:16 Duet Prep and Stage Confidence
• 55:06 Romance, Stalker Song, and Farewell

Over Zoom, Lawrence Zarian interviews Ellen Burstyn ahead of their in-person meeting on The Kelly Clarkson Show, reflecting on divine timing and how his pandemic-born podcast explores how entertainers see the world differently.

Burstyn discusses promoting her poetry book and her discomfort with “commercializing” something sacred, emphasizing her goal of introducing poetry to people who don’t know it; Zarian shares how the book gave him language for grief, citing Maya Angelou and Rumi, and Burstyn recites Edna St. Vincent Millay’s “Love is not all.” Burstyn recalls a childhood split between being popular at school and hiding at home due to an abusive stepfather, and how poetry helped her envision a future.

They discuss forgiveness, therapy, sobriety, and generational trauma, then touch on colleagues and projects including Cloris Leachman, Jack Nicholson, Alan Alda, Linda Blair, and roles like Lois in The Last Picture Show, ending with Burstyn completing “I, Ellen Burstyn, am beautiful because…” with a memory of her mother.

Timestamp Menu:

• 01:51 Universe and Timing
• 03:04 Mirror Question
• 03:54 Poetry Book Doubts
• 09:01 Poetry Awakening
• 09:53 Two Lives Growing Up
• 15:42 Forgiving Mom
• 17:40 Trauma and Sobriety
• 24:47 Poems for Grief
• 29:33 Favorite Poem Recital
• 32:07 Poetry as Healing
• 33:21 Central Park Cherry Blossoms
• 35:32 Fashion and Self Love
• 37:39 Rapid Fire Film Memories
• 42:43 Internet Myths and Truth
• 44:24 Alan Alda and Friendship
• 48:07 Women and Equal Partnership
• 52:13 Revisiting Past Characters
• 54:03 Longing Poem and Farewell
• 55:55 I Am Beautiful Because

LZ hosts an episode of “You Are Beautiful” with actor Jason George, discussing why he’s uncomfortable with compliments and how he prefers focusing on work that puts something meaningful into the world.

George answers Lauren’s mirror question by identifying first as a proud father, then they explore how he stays grounded in Hollywood through truth-telling family relationships, including a story from his rain-soaked wedding and the role of his brothers in keeping him humble.

They discuss hate as fear rooted in lack of understanding, the importance of proximity to others, and Lauren shares his experience as a gay man and his father’s evolving views. George recounts pivoting from a pre-law path into acting, booking Sunset Beach via a large audition contest, and later joining Grey’s Anatomy without auditioning, crediting his ease and chemistry with Chandra Wilson.

They reflect on why audiences connect with Ben Warren, share a Denzel Washington anecdote, and George advises actors to create their own work, find their voice, and avoid neediness in auditions, closing with his statement that he is beautiful because he cares about other people.

Timestamp Menu:

• 00:26 Stay Ready Mindset
• 01:34 Compliments and Purpose
• 03:10 Beauty Beyond Looks
• 04:52 Why This Podcast Exists
• 05:53 Mirror Question Dad First
• 07:07 Marriage and Staying Grounded
• 10:27 Brothers Family and Loyalty
• 14:29 Identity Proximity and Hate
• 20:03 Finding Acting by Accident
• 23:02 Sunset Beach Soap Bootcamp
• 24:48 Idol as Publicity
• 25:27 Sunset Beach Break
• 26:46 Kismet Casting Day
• 28:06 Union and LA Move
• 29:31 Denzel Food Truck
• 30:46 Grey's Without Audition
• 34:26 Ben and Bailey Magic
• 39:48 Desert Island Pick
• 43:47 Advice for Actors
• 47:56 Beautiful Because
• 50:39 Fatherhood and Wrap
•

In this exciting new episode, LZ reunites with Daniel Radcliffe for a playful, fast-paced interview about beauty, identity, and career.

Radcliffe shares that he often starts press days feeling camera-unready until hair, makeup, and styling help; he chooses flying or an invisibility cloak as a preferred Harry Potter power and says he’d show his son the first Potter film so his son is least likely to recognize him, noting his current anonymity as “just dad.” Asked about a desert-island companion among past co-stars, he picks Emma Watson.

He discusses his series “The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins,” explaining Arthur Tobin’s need for Reggie due to Arthur’s own scandal and reflecting on forgiveness, growth, and changing gambling culture. Radcliffe recalls “Equus,” “How to Succeed,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” praises Jonathan Groff, and previews his one-man show “Every Brilliant Thing,” emphasizing live audience connection.

He says he feels “beautiful” because he likes people and tries to ensure no one leaves a set feeling worse than when they arrived.

Timestamp Menu:

• 00:53 Meet Daniel Radcliffe
• 01:44 Speed Date Setup
• 02:40 Mirror Morning Check
• 03:27 Pick a Magic Power
• 04:25 One Potter for His Son
• 05:23 Desert Island Co Star
• 06:16 Fallen Rise of Dinkins
• 07:14 Mistakes Forgiveness Growth
• 08:42 Documentary and Autobiography
• 09:18 Broadway Naked Stories
• 10:20 Merrily and Broadway Love
• 11:46 Every Brilliant Thing Preview
• 13:19 I Am Beautiful Because
• 14:26 Thanks and Farewell

Lawrence Zarian welcomes actress Justine Lupe to his podcast and they joke about prisms, John Hamm comparisons, and first meeting at The Kelly Clarkson Show.

Lawrence asks Justine what she sees in the mirror, and she says she most identifies through her relationships—as a daughter, mother, sister, wife, and friend—crediting her close, codependent upbringing for prioritizing intimacy and safety over career volatility.

They discuss her early creative spark (playing the Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz), her New York years, and her work on Succession (choosing Shiv on a desert island) and Nobody Wants This, including Morgan’s vulnerability, fearlessness, and dynamic with Sasha.

Justine talks about transparency around body image and social media, advises focusing on soulfulness over aesthetics, and defines relationship essentials as mutual respect, vulnerability, and optimism. She ends by stating she is beautiful because she is soulful, kind, thoughtful, and deeply witnesses the people she loves.

Timestamp Menu:

• 00:17 Prism Compliments
• 00:58 John Hamm Mixup
• 02:10 Kelly Clarkson Encounter
• 05:33 Singing Suddenly Seymour
• 07:06 Finding The Right Fit
• 08:47 Mirror Question Identity
• 11:21 Family Roots Of Closeness
• 15:19 Midwest And New York Years
• 16:58 Early Spark For Acting
• 20:00 Parents And Healing
• 23:10 Succession Breakout
• 26:32 Desert Island Roy Pick
• 28:57 Nobody Wants This Praise
• 29:43 Fearlessness From Dad
• 30:41 Embracing Goofy Humor
• 32:56 Fearless Creative Risks
• 33:35 Trusting the Film Crew
• 35:56 Desert Island Character Pick
• 36:48 Why Morgan Resonates
• 39:25 Morgan and Sasha Chemistry
• 41:33 Body Image and Transparency
• 43:56 Advice for Social Media Pressure
• 53:23 Season Two and Relationship Keys
• 58:21 Beauty Definition and Farewell

Lawrence Zarian hosts an episode of “You Are Beautiful” with guest Melissa Errico, beginning with a candid, humorous setup about lighting, auditions, and aesthetics before moving into Lawrence’s background as a longtime TV makeover expert and QVC clothing designer behind “Beautiful by Lawrence Zarian.”

They talk about how fashion is less about how you look and more about how you feel, share favorite pieces from Lawrence’s line (including blues, an off-the-shoulder rosette top, and a scalloped V-neck stripe), and discuss what Melissa wears to feel confident—V-necks, black-and-white Breton stripes, vintage biker boots, and eclectic, artsy combinations.

Lawrence and Melissa also answer a mirror question about what they like seeing in themselves that day, including Melissa’s healing from an eye stye, feeling rested, and fresh red hair, and Lawrence’s enjoyment of wearing blue, having a good hair day after hair loss post-COVID, and embracing turning 60.

The conversation expands into Melissa’s artistry and origins: her father playing Michel Legrand at home during the Vietnam era, how that music later led to Melissa’s close collaboration with Legrand on Broadway and on a symphonic record (“Legrand Affair” with the Brussels Philharmonic), and her formative experience seeing “On Your Toes” on Broadway that made her sob and sparked her desire to perform. They discuss Sondheim’s “Beautiful” from “Sunday in the Park with George,” which Melissa reads aloud to frame beauty as something that changes, and Lawrence’s intent to focus his podcast on the essence of people rather than projects.

Melissa then describes her evolving relationship with Barbra Streisand—how Malcolm Gets pushed her to truly listen, how Streisand’s artistry feels like a force of nature, and how Melissa’s “The Streisand Effect” concert is an homage exploring what Streisand made possible rather than a tribute imitation. They share personal connections to Broadway (including Lawrence’s first love story with Hugh Panaro after seeing “Les Misérables,” and plans to coordinate seeing him perform again), and Melissa recounts meeting Streisand briefly backstage at Madison Square Garden.

Melissa also describes creating a new song concept, “Daughter of Fire,” inspired by Streisand’s memoir and a moment with her own daughter, and she closes by sharing her current release: an album titled “I Can Dream, Can’t I?” rolled out as weekly singles via a “waterfall release,” featuring classic American songs and ending with Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now.”

The episode ends with Lawrence’s signature prompt—Melissa answering “I am beautiful because…”—and she responds that she is beautiful because she feels music deeply as something precious that passes through her.

Timestamp Menu:

• 00:51 Broadway Beginnings and My Fair Lady
• 01:49 Meet Lawrence and the Beauty Theme
• 02:46 Fashion Crushes and QVC Picks
• 04:24 How a Designer Is Made
• 08:31 Podcast Origin and Mirror Question
• 09:32 Melissa on Exhaustion and Healing
• 12:38 Three Things You Like Today
• 15:14 Aging and Self Acceptance at 60
• 17:24 Sondheim Beautiful Reading
• 21:58 Melissa Musical Spark and Legrand
• 26:56 Broadway Awakening and Les Mis
• 30:48 Broadway Crush Memories
• 31:30 Broadway Boyfriends Bond
• 32:14 Streisand Effect Origins
• 37:05 Meeting Barbra Briefly
• 39:40 Daughter of Fire Song
• 42:26 Style That Feels Fire
• 48:21 Wardrobe Tips After 40
• 53:37 New Album Dreaming
• 56:32 Beautiful Because Music
• 58:35 Blue Love Farewell

LZ interviews actor Michael Urie on the podcast “You Are Beautiful,” beginning with playful banter and a lip-sync to “Don’t Cry Out Loud,” which prompts Lawrence to share a personal memory of hearing the song as a closeted teen and how it shaped his connection to Michael’s fearless public identity.

Michael answers Lawrence’s mirror question while doing press from The Daily Show green room, noting Shrinking has been renewed and joking about fixing a broken hot-water handle in his Upper West Side apartment. They discuss Michael’s Texas roots in Plano, his early love of movies and storytelling inspired by Tim Burton, and how shyness led him to play alone with toys while inventing stories. Michael describes a key high-school turning point when a substitute and his teacher moved him into an advanced theater class, being pushed into Fiddler on the Roof due to a lack of boys, and realizing performance was for him after getting a big, repeatable laugh; he also competed in speech tournaments.

Michael talks about coming out with support from his older queer sister, having dated girls in high school, and feeling that people in New York and at Juilliard made “intelligent assumptions” as he grew into himself.

Lawrence shares his own later-in-life public coming-out and sobriety, and a Harrison Ford anecdote from Live with Regis and Kelly; Michael reflects on long careers, working with Harrison Ford on Shrinking (including the character’s Parkinson’s storyline), and how acting can evolve into old age, mentioning June Squibb. In rapid-fire topics, Michael discusses Ugly Betty: multiple auditions, Mark St.

James originally intended only for the pilot, Vanessa Williams’s generosity, and their on-set comedic collaboration; he highlights his proudest element—the bond between Mark and Justin Suarez and the storyline confronting Mark’s mother. Asked for advice to queer youth in a difficult climate, Michael emphasizes “find the helpers,” chosen family, and that it’s not worth expending energy trying to change people—find your tribe.

He also reflects on stage work including Buyer & Cellar (hundreds of performances and famous attendees, though Barbra Streisand never came), Torch Song with Mercedes Ruehl, Once Upon a Mattress as an unexpected dream role, and the shocks and performances in Oh, Mary! with Jinkx Monsoon.

The episode ends with Michael sharing that his relationship works because he and his partner listen to each other, and he completes Lawrence’s closing prompt: he is beautiful because of the reflection of life he receives back—joy, humanity, and connection.

Menu:

• 00:00 Pajamas, Popcorn & Finally Meeting Michael Urie
• 01:04 Breaking the Ice: A Surprise Lip-Sync Challenge
• 02:14 “Don’t Cry Out Loud” Deep Dive: Music, Memories & Meaning
• 04:06 Why This Podcast Exists: Beauty, COVID Reset & Fearless Living
• 05:54 A Camp Crush & Learning to Hide Feelings
• 07:19 Mirror Question: Pride, Sobriety & Where You Are Today
• 07:53 Press Day Wins & Upper West Side Life (and No Hot Water)
• 10:51 Texas Roots: Plano, Two-Stepping & Oil Can Harry’s
• 12:46 The Spark to Perform: Movies, Toys, Theater Class & Getting the Laugh
• 18:52 Coming Out Journeys: Family Support, Julliard & Finding Your Person
• 25:05 Was I Born for This? Finding the Path to Acting
• 25:38 Support Systems & ‘It Was Meant to Be’
• 27:34 Working Forever: June Squibb, Harrison Ford & Aging in the Craft
• 30:17 Harrison Ford’s Humble Movie-Star Moment (Hair & Makeup Story)
• 31:28 Rapid Fire Begins: Landing Ugly Betty’s Mark St. James
• 34:06 Why Mark/Justin Mattered: Representation, Heart & Comedy
• 38:29 Advice for Queer Kids Today: Find the Helpers, Find Your Tribe
• 42:12 Stage Lessons: Buyer & Cellar and the Barbra

In this episode of 'You Are Beautiful with Lawrence Zarian,' LZ engages in a heartfelt conversation with the 96-year-old actress June Squibb. From her early years growing up in Illinois to her illustrious career on Broadway and in Hollywood, June shares her life's journey with humor and wisdom.

She discusses her memorable roles, including her breakout in 'Gypsy,' starring alongside Jack Nicholson in 'About Schmidt,' and her latest projects 'Thelma' and 'Marjorie Prime.' Reflecting on the evolution of her career, June explores the themes of resilience, love for her craft, and the sacredness of life.

This captivating discussion uncovers her insights into beauty, aging, and the essence of truly caring about people.

Timestamp Menu:

• 00:38 First Impressions and Personal Comforts
• 02:51 Reflections on Beauty and Family
• 04:49 Early Life and Career Beginnings
• 06:16 Broadway and New York Adventures
• 12:40 Transition to Film and Notable Roles
• 19:43 Oscar Buzz and Recent Projects
• 21:32 June Squibb's Stuntwoman Experience
• 23:40 Working with Scarlett Johansson
• 26:29 Broadway and Marjorie Prime
• 29:41 Reflections on Life and Career
• 31:29 Advice for the Future
• 38:23 Embracing Aging
• 41:20 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of 'You Are Beautiful with Lauren Zian,' LZ engages in a heartfelt and revealing conversation with legendary actress Susan Lucci.

The dialogue kicks off with a nostalgic recount of their initial meeting through mutual connections like Regis Philbin and their shared experiences on television. Susan Lucci opens up about her career, her transformative role as Erica Kane on 'All My Children,' and her impactful storytelling, particularly highlighting the poignant storylines that tackled real-life issues such as her character's daughter coming out. Susan delves into her personal experiences of grief following the loss of her husband, finding strength and restoration in unexpected places, and embracing new beginnings.

Together, they discuss the importance of connecting through shared stories, the enduring impact of significant life events, and finding signs of loved ones in everyday moments. It's a deep, touching, and authentic exploration of life, loss, love, and the timeless beauty of human connections.

Timetamp Menu:

• 00:54 Special Guest: Susan Lucci
• 01:39 Memorable First Meeting
• 02:32 Navigating the Entertainment Industry
• 05:32 Pandemic Reflections and Personal Growth
• 12:11 Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings
• 17:28 Iconic Soap Opera Moments
• 22:15 Impactful Storylines and Representation
• 27:38 The Power of Storytelling
• 28:11 Coping with Loss and Grief
• 29:25 Rediscovering Passion and Purpose
• 32:26 Writing Through Grief
• 38:12 Memories and Treasures
• 43:38 Signs from Loved Ones
• 50:46 The Journey of Sobriety
• 55:05 Reflections and Gratitude

In this episode of 'You Are Beautiful with Lawrence Zarian', Dave Coulier opens up about his multifaceted life journey. The discussion covers Dave's reflections on family, past experiences, and career highlights, including his role in the iconic TV show 'Full House'. Dave shares emotional stories about his family, particularly navigating life after his cancer diagnosis. He emphasizes the importance of early detection, personal health, and the impact of environmental factors on well-being.

Additionally, Dave introduces his new venture, Aware Market, aimed at promoting healthier lifestyle choices through non-toxic products. This episode is a heartfelt dialogue about overcoming adversity, embracing health, and the power of community.

Timestamp menu:

• 00:27 Welcome to the Show
• 01:34 Lawrence's Podcast Concept
• 02:56 Dave's Family and Grandfatherhood
• 05:10 Childhood Reflections and Family Dynamics
• 07:00 Parental Divorce and Emotional Impact
• 11:23 Life Before and After Diagnosis
• 18:50 Sharing the Diagnosis with Family
• 21:22 Health Update and New Challenges
• 29:01 Full House Audition and Career Reflections
• 32:34 Reflecting on Full House Memories
• 32:57 Choosing a Castaway Companion
• 34:18 Voice Acting Inspirations
• 35:34 Meeting Animation Legends
• 37:00 Impressions and Comedy Career
• 40:13 Cancer Diagnosis and Awareness
• 43:25 Creating a Holistic Marketplace
• 48:38 Advocating for Early Detection
• 54:44 The Importance of Letting Go
• 58:58 Gratitude and Final Thoughts

In this episode, LZ engages in a heartfelt and comprehensive conversation with actress Beth Behrs. The podcast covers a range of topics including self-acceptance, beauty standards, and personal growth. Beth shares her journey from her early years in New York, her love for horses, and her experiences on popular shows like 'Two Broke Girls' and 'The Neighborhood.'

They discuss the importance of creating authentic human connections amidst a technology-driven society and the value of giving back to the community. Beth also talks about her latest venture, Range Revolution, designing regenerative leather cowboy boots, and the joy of making people laugh.

The discussion concludes with touching insights on what makes each feel beautiful and grounded.

Menu:

• 00:00 Welcome and Introduction
• 00:53 Guest Introduction and Compliments
• 01:15 Fashion and Beauty Insights
• 02:34 Personal Stories and Reflections
• 03:48 Community and Connection
• 05:44 Technology and Human Interaction
• 07:37 Acting and Career Beginnings
• 10:02 Broadway and Musical Inspirations
• 12:13 Horse Riding and Personal Passions
• 19:36 Hollywood Stories and Friendships
• 30:58 Discussing Talk Show Experiences
• 34:01 Memorable Moments with Sally Field
• 37:12 Reflecting on Long-Running Sitcoms
• 39:51 Designing Regenerative Cowboy Boots
• 49:33 Secret Celebrity Renovation
• 51:13 Mahjong and Friendship
• 53:11 Speed Round and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'You Are Beautiful' hosted by LZ, Chrissy Metz, famed for her role in 'This Is Us,' dives deep into a heartfelt conversation. Chrissy discusses emotional and physical self-worth, personal struggles with body image, and the search for grace amid challenges. The dialogue covers profound themes of vulnerability, personal healing, and societal perceptions of beauty. Touching on topics like anxiety, addiction, and the impact of COVID-19, the conversation is both raw and inspirational. Highlights include Metz's experiences on set, her views on self-care, and the importance of gratitude and self-love.

The episode is illuminating, providing solace and validation to listeners navigating their own journeys.

Menu:

• 00:00 Welcome and Introduction
• 00:53 Special Guest: Chrissy Metz
• 02:10 Life in Nashville
• 04:58 The Power of Self-Love
• 09:03 Struggles with Food and Addiction
• 15:05 Finding Comfort in Shared Experiences
• 18:21 The Importance of Self-Compassion
• 23:37 The Comfort of the Familiar
• 24:07 A Candid Conversation
• 24:34 The Impact of Kate Pearson
• 25:16 Behind the Scenes of Filming
• 25:46 Body Image and Representation
• 27:15 Unexpected Encounters
• 29:03 The Cast's Bond
• 35:08 Portraying Single Moms
• 37:28 Accents and Authenticity
• 41:51 Real Stories, Real Impact
• 43:46 Children's Books and Big Feelings
• 47:58 Final Thoughts and Reflections