reSee.it Podcast Summary
Dax Shepard welcomes Lupita Nyong'o, an Academy Award-winning actor known for her roles in *12 Years a Slave*, *Black Panther*, and *Us*. They discuss her upcoming animated film *The Wild Robot*, based on a beloved book series about a robot named Roz who develops a heart. Dax humorously mentions their shared connection to robots, and they encourage listeners to check out the film.
Lupita shares her experience recording her podcast, *Mind Your Own*, which she produced while traveling. She reflects on her childhood, born in Mexico due to her father's political activism in Kenya, where he faced danger from an autocratic regime. Lupita discusses her family's history, including her father's brother's mysterious disappearance, which prompted their move to Mexico.
Lupita describes her upbringing in Nairobi, where she experienced political tension but was shielded from its harsh realities. She attended international schools, which shaped her worldview. Her parents emphasized the importance of education and cultural exposure, leading her to learn multiple languages and travel.
The conversation shifts to Lupita's experience moving to the U.S. for college, where she faced cultural shocks, particularly during her first winter. She recounts her struggles with identity and self-acceptance, especially regarding her skin color and beauty standards. Lupita explains how her time in Mexico helped her embrace her uniqueness, as she received attention for her appearance that she hadn't experienced in Kenya.
As they discuss her acting career, Lupita reflects on her breakthrough role in *12 Years a Slave*, which deepened her understanding of African American history and its relevance to her immigrant experience. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling and representation in film.
Lupita shares her thoughts on fame, noting that while she grew up around it, she never fully embraced it. She discusses the pressure of maintaining her career after winning an Academy Award and the anxiety that followed. Dax relates to her feelings of insecurity and the challenges of navigating celebrity.
They touch on Lupita's fashion sense, her experiences at fashion shows, and her admiration for designers. Dax expresses his excitement about Lupita's upcoming projects, including her podcast and film, and encourages listeners to support her work.
The conversation concludes with a light-hearted discussion about their personal lives, including relationships and the complexities of dating in the public eye. Lupita reflects on her desire for companionship and family, while Dax shares his own experiences with fame and identity. They both acknowledge the challenges of balancing personal and professional lives in the entertainment industry.