Scott speaks with Ben Stiller, actor, director, and executive producer of the hit series Severance, to discuss the highs and lows of a four-decade career in Hollywood. They talk about growing up in a showbiz family, the lessons hidden in failure, and the creative risks that paid off. Ben also opens up about sobriety, balancing ambition with family, and why Severance almost didn’t get made. Follow Ben Stiller, @BenStiller. Timestamps 00:00 - In This Episode 01:27 - What's your origin story? 04:07 - How did you end up at UCLA? 05:19 - What was your first gig out of college? 07:15 - What was your big break? 11:34 - Have you ever questioned your place in the industry? 15:01 - What projects were received differently than you expected? 18:35 - Who are some underrated actors you’ve worked with? 20:57 - Break 22:14 - What about Severance made you commit so quickly? 26:38 - Why does Hollywood feel bleak despite huge streaming budgets? 29:46 - What was your relationship with your parents like? 34:56 - Did your mom’s story shape your choice not to drink? 36:32 - How did sobriety influence your reconciliation with your partner? 37:53 - Break 40:15 - Any advice for dads learning to balance work and fatherhood? 43:25 - Any relationship advice for young men? 45:49 - How did your cancer diagnosis change you? 48:36 - Has your perspective shifted since overcoming cancer? 52:20 - What are you hoping to accomplish in the next 10 years? Please support this channel by subscribing here: https://links.profgmedia.com/youtube-prof-g-sub Want more Prof G? Check out everything we're up to at https://links.profgmedia.com/home #scottgalloway #benstiller #director #actor #newyork #california #podcast #podcastshow #hollywood #movie #profg #ucla #severancetvshow #severance