The Accidental Activist

Latest Episodes:

Welcome to Season 2 Sep 30, 2022

Show notes

All season long, join Isha Sesay as she talks with celebrity changemakers who are pushing themselves far beyond their comfort zones with the intention of making the world a better place. From issues like reproductive rights to racial justice, these Hollywood icons share how they found themselves inhabiting the role of activist – and what they’re thinking ahead of the midterms this Fall. Leave these conversations inspired to take action and get involved.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesse Williams May 27, 2022

Show notes

To close season one of The Accidental Activist, Jesse Williams joins the show. Steeped in an activist background, Jesse shares how his activism started, where his fire comes from, and how he operates as an actor and activist in Hollywood. Jesse and Isha break down what it means to be an activist and how we all have a responsibility to serve others. Finally, Jesse sheds light on the single greatest moment that threatened to turn him away from activism.

2016 BET Awards Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbJUzqw1E-g

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Roxane Gay (Author) May 20, 2022

Show notes

In this episode, Roxane and Isha explore the obsession with the scrutinization of our bodies and the role misogyny plays in that scrutiny. As a writer and social commentator, Roxane explains why she not only doesn’t claim the title of activist, but she also doesn’t do the work she does with the intention of activating. She is simply telling her story and sharing her experience. But sometimes that's enough to get put on the proverbial pedestal.

You can hear more from Roxane in her newsletter, The Audacity, and on her podcast, The Roxane Gay Agenda.

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Alyson Stoner (Actress, Singer, Dancer) May 13, 2022

Show notes

Alyson Stoner has been in the limelight since childhood. But now she is speaking out against the lack of support for children in the industry. In this week’s episode, Alyson sheds light on the ways in which Hollywood and society fall short of protecting children in the business. She discusses her experience and why she’s chosen to use her platform to better conditions. Alyson emphasizes the importance of taking care of your mental health and how we can all do our small part to make the world a better place.

To support Alyson and the causes she believes in, check out the organizations below:

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Forest Whitaker May 06, 2022

Show notes

This week, Isha is joined by Oscar winner and founder and CEO of Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative, Forest Whitaker. Forest shares how his early childhood exposure to violence in his community served as a driving force in both his acting career and his activism. He teaches Isha the lesson of the importance of being strategic and methodical with every decision you make and the two bond over their shared experience of running a not-for-profit.

You can find out more about The Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative https://www.wpdi.org/

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Margaret Cho Apr 29, 2022

Show notes

Margaret Cho has been making us laugh for years. But now it’s time to get serious. This week, Margaret joins Isha to help spotlight the rise of anti-Asian hate in America. Born out of fear, Margaret’s activism works to dismantle the toxic labels about and within the Asian American community. Margaret challenges the myths and stereotypes that harm how we see and interact with each other while demonstrating the power of turning fear into fuel.

Check out Margaret's podcast Mortal Minority!

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Masai Ujiri (Toronto Raptors President) Apr 22, 2022

Show notes

This week, Isha is joined by her friend and fellow activist, Masai Ujiri. As a former athlete and current President of the Toronto Raptors, Masai has a mental fortitude that extends well beyond basketball. This is the same fortitude he had to exhibit when one of the highlights of his career took a dark turn. In this episode, Masai illustrates why he credits his multinational upbringing for much of his success and why he chooses to invest in the youth.

To support Masai’s organization, go to https://giantsofafrica.org/

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Dr. Lucy Kalanithi (When Breath Becomes Air) Apr 15, 2022

Show notes

Turning pain into purpose can often be the cornerstone of activism. Dr. Lucy Kalanithi exemplifies that in her work as a physician. In this episode, Lucy walks us through her unconventional journey into activism. She explains what it means to find joy in the midst of suffering, the importance of discovering your purpose, and why she’s fighting to make the healthcare system more human and more humane.

Check out Lucy’s podcast Gravity

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Baratunde Thurston (Author/Host of How To Citizen) Apr 08, 2022

Show notes

In this week’s episode, Isha is joined by author, comedian, and activist, Baratunde Thurston. From the hallways of Sidwell Friends School to behind the mic of his How To Citizen podcast, Baratunde employs humor, compassion, and a little bit of anger to convey his thoughts on race, culture, and politics. Isha and Baratunde discuss the significance of one’s upbringing, what it means to be an activist in today’s day and age, and the pillars of being an engaged citizen.

Baratunde’s 2019 Ted Talk - How to deconstruct racism, one headline at a time

Check out Baratunde’s podcast How To Citizen with Baratunde!

Organizations and programs that Baratunde supports:

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Alyssa Milano Apr 01, 2022

Show notes

Alyssa Milano has been on our screens for decades. But she’s also been on the front lines championing the issues she believes in for just as long. Her roles on Who's the Boss?, Melrose Place, and Charmed are as iconic as her activism. While most of us choose one cause, Alyssa has dedicated herself to many. In this episode, Alyssa shares the origin story of her activism, how love propels us, and how to face the critics.

Mentioned tweet: https://twitter.com/alyssa_milano/status/919659438700670976?lang=en

Check out Alyssa’s podcast Alyssa Milano: Sorry Not Sorry!

Resources:

Follow Isha Sesay on Twitter and Instagram.