Ep 995: From Pretty in Pink to a Sci-Fi Nightmare: Andrew McCarthy

What happens when the person searching for the truth can’t trust his own memory?

Linda Mitchell welcomes actor, director, author, and travel writer Andrew McCarthy to Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T. for a conversation about his new sci-fi mystery thriller, Orion, and the curiosity that keeps a creative career moving.

Known for beloved films including Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo’s Fire, Mannequin, and Weekend at Bernie’s, McCarthy takes on an intense, mysterious supporting role in this latest project.

In Orion, an astronaut returns to Earth after a disastrous mission with fractured memories and unanswered questions. As he works with a space agency interrogator, the search for answers reveals a threat that reaches far beyond the mission.

Conversation topics:
• What drew Andrew to his role in Orion
• Creating tension while keeping a character’s intentions hidden
• Memory and trust at the center of the film
• How directing informs his approach to acting
• Exploring new roles beyond familiar audience expectations
• Staying curious across acting, writing, directing, and travel

Orion is directed by Jaco Bouwer, written by Anne Vithayathil, and stars Andrew McCarthy, Drew Van Acker, and Debby Ryan.

In theaters October 2, 2026.

Connect with Linda:
https://sisterhoodofsweat.com
https://listentolinda.me

Enjoyed this episode? Follow Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves a good mystery.

Summary

In this episode, Andrew McCarthy discusses his transition from iconic teen movies to darker, more complex roles, explores the impact of AI on acting, and shares insights into his latest sci-fi film Orion. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of acting, storytelling, and the evolving landscape of film.

• Andrew McCarthy's transition from teen movies to darker roles
• The influence of John Hughes on youth films
• The role of vulnerability and imperfection in acting
• The impact of AI on acting and creativity
• Storytelling in Orion and themes of trust and manipulation
• The importance of human connection in art and film
• Directing versus acting: insights from McCarthy
• Techniques for managing tension and deception in thriller roles

takeaways

• Andrew McCarthy believes that movies like Pretty in Pink took young people seriously, which is why they remain relevant.
• He emphasizes that the human element and imperfection are what make acting and storytelling compelling.
• McCarthy sees AI as the anti-actor, lacking the deep humanness that makes art meaningful.
• He values the simplicity of acting when directed well, focusing on authenticity rather than overthinking.
• The film Orion explores themes of trust, manipulation, and the uncertainty of memory, reflecting current societal anxieties.

Sound Bites

• "Vulnerability shows up on the screen."
• "Acting is the anti-AI."
• "Sci-fi reflects our future and fears."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andrew McCarthy and his career

01:56 What made teen movies like Pretty in Pink iconic?

04:42 McCarthy's experience working with James Spader and Molly Ringwald

07:14 The story's exploration of contact with the unknown

08:03 AI's role in acting and creativity

09:14 The value of directing experience for actors

10:44 Balancing reveal and conceal in thriller acting

11:35 How the Orion director helped McCarthy get into character

12:20 Why sci-fi is relevant and relatable today

13:15 Closing thoughts and thanks

Check out this episode!

Ep 995: From Pretty in Pink to a Sci-Fi Nightmare: Andrew McCarthy

What happens when the person searching for the truth can’t trust his own memory?

Linda Mitchell welcomes actor, director, author, and travel writer Andrew McCarthy to Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T. for a conversation about his new sci-fi mystery thriller, Orion, and the curiosity that keeps a creative career moving.

Known for beloved films including Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo’s Fire, Mannequin, and Weekend at Bernie’s, McCarthy takes on an intense, mysterious supporting role in this latest project.

In Orion, an astronaut returns to Earth after a disastrous mission with fractured memories and unanswered questions. As he works with a space agency interrogator, the search for answers reveals a threat that reaches far beyond the mission.

Conversation topics:
• What drew Andrew to his role in Orion
• Creating tension while keeping a character’s intentions hidden
• Memory and trust at the center of the film
• How directing informs his approach to acting
• Exploring new roles beyond familiar audience expectations
• Staying curious across acting, writing, directing, and travel

Orion is directed by Jaco Bouwer, written by Anne Vithayathil, and stars Andrew McCarthy, Drew Van Acker, and Debby Ryan.

In theaters October 2, 2026.

Connect with Linda:
https://sisterhoodofsweat.com
https://listentolinda.me

Enjoyed this episode? Follow Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves a good mystery.

Summary

In this episode, Andrew McCarthy discusses his transition from iconic teen movies to darker, more complex roles, explores the impact of AI on acting, and shares insights into his latest sci-fi film Orion. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of acting, storytelling, and the evolving landscape of film.

• Andrew McCarthy's transition from teen movies to darker roles
• The influence of John Hughes on youth films
• The role of vulnerability and imperfection in acting
• The impact of AI on acting and creativity
• Storytelling in Orion and themes of trust and manipulation
• The importance of human connection in art and film
• Directing versus acting: insights from McCarthy
• Techniques for managing tension and deception in thriller roles

takeaways

• Andrew McCarthy believes that movies like Pretty in Pink took young people seriously, which is why they remain relevant.
• He emphasizes that the human element and imperfection are what make acting and storytelling compelling.
• McCarthy sees AI as the anti-actor, lacking the deep humanness that makes art meaningful.
• He values the simplicity of acting when directed well, focusing on authenticity rather than overthinking.
• The film Orion explores themes of trust, manipulation, and the uncertainty of memory, reflecting current societal anxieties.

Sound Bites

• "Vulnerability shows up on the screen."
• "Acting is the anti-AI."
• "Sci-fi reflects our future and fears."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andrew McCarthy and his career

01:56 What made teen movies like Pretty in Pink iconic?

04:42 McCarthy's experience working with James Spader and Molly Ringwald

07:14 The story's exploration of contact with the unknown

08:03 AI's role in acting and creativity

09:14 The value of directing experience for actors

10:44 Balancing reveal and conceal in thriller acting

11:35 How the Orion director helped McCarthy get into character

12:20 Why sci-fi is relevant and relatable today

13:15 Closing thoughts and thanks

Check out this episode!

994: What Black Bears Can Teach Us About Fear and Respect with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant’

 Summary

In this episode, wildlife ecologist Dr. Rae Wynne Grant shares her insights on black bears, conservation, and the importance of respecting wildlife. Discover how animals like bears and cheetahs adapt and learn practical tips for coexisting safely with wild animals.

 

Show Notes

What can black bears teach us about the impact humans have on wildlife? In this episode of Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell talks with wildlife ecologist Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant about her research on large carnivores, her journey into science, and the importance of seeing more women represented in the field.

Dr. Rae is a co-host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild and host of Going Wild with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. She shares what drew her to wildlife as a child, what studying bears has taught her about living alongside animals, and why local communities are essential to conservation.

They also look ahead to Season 4 of Wild Kingdom, which brings viewers stories from Alaska, Costa Rica, Australia, Puerto Rico, and other remarkable places.

In this conversation:
• How a childhood fascination became a career in wildlife ecology
• What human activity can change about black bear behavior
• The difference between fearing an animal and respecting it
• Why representation matters in science and storytelling
• Simple ways families can connect with and help protect nature

Season 4 of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild premieres October 3 on NBC’s “The More You Know” weekend programming block. Check local listings for the time. Learn more at wildkingdom.com.

key topics

• The concept of 'better' as a continuous journey rather than a destination
• The 1% principle and its application in daily life
• Reframing nerves and fear as fuel rather than obstacles
• The importance of speaking kindly to oneself and rewriting negative tapes
• Playing to win versus playing not to lose and its impact on performance
• The difference between a giving and a getting mindset in relationships and work
• Strategies for managing nerves and using them to enhance performance
• The role of joy in sustaining growth and maintaining motivation

Sound Bites

• "Speak to yourself more kindly and rewrite those tapes"
• "Play to win, not just to not lose"
• "Nerves are fuel, not a sign of failure"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joseph Ariel Town and his work

02:04 Why the idea of being the best is limiting

04:05 The 1% principle and daily small shifts

05:37 Playing to win versus playing not to lose

06:52 The giving versus getting mindset in relationships

07:47 Overcoming nerves and performance anxiety

09:10 Reframing nerves as fuel and staying present

10:26 Experiencing joy during the process, not just the outcome

11:18 Where to find Joseph's book and podcast

12:13 Final thoughts: growth is a direction, not a destination

Check out this episode!

994: What Black Bears Can Teach Us About Fear and Respect with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant’

 Summary

In this episode, wildlife ecologist Dr. Rae Wynne Grant shares her insights on black bears, conservation, and the importance of respecting wildlife. Discover how animals like bears and cheetahs adapt and learn practical tips for coexisting safely with wild animals.

 

Show Notes

What can black bears teach us about the impact humans have on wildlife? In this episode of Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell talks with wildlife ecologist Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant about her research on large carnivores, her journey into science, and the importance of seeing more women represented in the field.

Dr. Rae is a co-host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild and host of Going Wild with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. She shares what drew her to wildlife as a child, what studying bears has taught her about living alongside animals, and why local communities are essential to conservation.

They also look ahead to Season 4 of Wild Kingdom, which brings viewers stories from Alaska, Costa Rica, Australia, Puerto Rico, and other remarkable places.

In this conversation:
• How a childhood fascination became a career in wildlife ecology
• What human activity can change about black bear behavior
• The difference between fearing an animal and respecting it
• Why representation matters in science and storytelling
• Simple ways families can connect with and help protect nature

Season 4 of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild premieres October 3 on NBC’s “The More You Know” weekend programming block. Check local listings for the time. Learn more at wildkingdom.com.

key topics

• The concept of 'better' as a continuous journey rather than a destination
• The 1% principle and its application in daily life
• Reframing nerves and fear as fuel rather than obstacles
• The importance of speaking kindly to oneself and rewriting negative tapes
• Playing to win versus playing not to lose and its impact on performance
• The difference between a giving and a getting mindset in relationships and work
• Strategies for managing nerves and using them to enhance performance
• The role of joy in sustaining growth and maintaining motivation

Sound Bites

• "Speak to yourself more kindly and rewrite those tapes"
• "Play to win, not just to not lose"
• "Nerves are fuel, not a sign of failure"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joseph Ariel Town and his work

02:04 Why the idea of being the best is limiting

04:05 The 1% principle and daily small shifts

05:37 Playing to win versus playing not to lose

06:52 The giving versus getting mindset in relationships

07:47 Overcoming nerves and performance anxiety

09:10 Reframing nerves as fuel and staying present

10:26 Experiencing joy during the process, not just the outcome

11:18 Where to find Joseph's book and podcast

12:13 Final thoughts: growth is a direction, not a destination

Check out this episode!

Ep 993: Why “Better” Is More Powerful Than Being Your Best with Joseph Ari’el Towne

 Summary

Joseph Ariel Town shares insights on overcoming fear, performing under pressure, and creating lasting change through small, intentional choices. Discover how to shift your mindset from seeking perfection to embracing continuous growth and joy.

 

SHOW NOTES

What if becoming your “best self” is not the real goal?

In this episode of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell sits down with high-performance coach, actor, director, podcast host, and author Joseph Ari’el Towne to discuss the powerful philosophy behind his new book, The Better Mindset.

For more than three decades, Joseph has worked inside the rooms where performance happens—on film sets, in studios, in rehearsal spaces, and alongside elite athletes, award-winning creatives, executives, and broadcasters. Through that experience, he discovered that the tools that help create a great athlete are often the same tools that help create a great performer and a more fulfilled human being.

Joseph explains why chasing perfection can keep us stuck and why becoming one percent better at what matters most creates more sustainable growth. He and Linda discuss how to turn fear and nervousness into useful energy, the difference between planning to win and playing not to lose, and why joy should be part of the journey rather than something we postpone until after we succeed.

They also explore the “giving state” versus the “getting state,” the relationship between our surroundings and our performance, and how honest self-examination can help us grow without slipping into shame or self-criticism.

If you have ever felt overwhelmed by how far you still have to go, this conversation will remind you that you do not have to change everything at once. You simply need to choose your direction and take the next intentional step.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:

• Why “better” can be more powerful and sustainable than “best”

• How the one-percent principle creates lasting change

• What elite athletes, actors, executives, and creatives have in common

• How to use fear and nervousness to improve your performance

• The difference between a giving state and a getting state

• Why planning to win is different from playing not to lose

• How your physical environment influences your mindset and well-being

• How to pursue growth without perfectionism or shame

• Why joy should be the vehicle rather than the reward

Joseph Ari’el Towne’s new book, The Better Mindset, releases globally on September 29. Season two of The Better Mindset podcast premieres this fall.

key topics

• The concept of 'better' as a continuous journey rather than a destination
• The 1% principle and its application in daily life
• Reframing nerves and fear as fuel rather than obstacles
• The importance of speaking kindly to oneself and rewriting negative tapes
• Playing to win versus playing not to lose and its impact on performance
• The difference between a giving and a getting mindset in relationships and work
• Strategies for managing nerves and using them to enhance performance
• The role of joy in sustaining growth and maintaining motivation

Sound Bites

• "Speak to yourself more kindly and rewrite those tapes"
• "Play to win, not just to not lose"
• "Nerves are fuel, not a sign of failure"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joseph Ariel Town and his work

02:04 Why the idea of being the best is limiting

04:05 The 1% principle and daily small shifts

05:37 Playing to win versus playing not to lose

06:52 The giving versus getting mindset in relationships

07:47 Overcoming nerves and performance anxiety

09:10 Reframing nerves as fuel and staying present

10:26 Experiencing joy during the process, not just the outcome

11:18 Where to find Joseph's book and podcast

12:13 Final thoughts: growth is a direction, not a destination

Check out this episode!

Ep 993: Why “Better” Is More Powerful Than Being Your Best with Joseph Ari’el Towne

 Summary

Joseph Ariel Town shares insights on overcoming fear, performing under pressure, and creating lasting change through small, intentional choices. Discover how to shift your mindset from seeking perfection to embracing continuous growth and joy.

 

SHOW NOTES

What if becoming your “best self” is not the real goal?

In this episode of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell sits down with high-performance coach, actor, director, podcast host, and author Joseph Ari’el Towne to discuss the powerful philosophy behind his new book, The Better Mindset.

For more than three decades, Joseph has worked inside the rooms where performance happens—on film sets, in studios, in rehearsal spaces, and alongside elite athletes, award-winning creatives, executives, and broadcasters. Through that experience, he discovered that the tools that help create a great athlete are often the same tools that help create a great performer and a more fulfilled human being.

Joseph explains why chasing perfection can keep us stuck and why becoming one percent better at what matters most creates more sustainable growth. He and Linda discuss how to turn fear and nervousness into useful energy, the difference between planning to win and playing not to lose, and why joy should be part of the journey rather than something we postpone until after we succeed.

They also explore the “giving state” versus the “getting state,” the relationship between our surroundings and our performance, and how honest self-examination can help us grow without slipping into shame or self-criticism.

If you have ever felt overwhelmed by how far you still have to go, this conversation will remind you that you do not have to change everything at once. You simply need to choose your direction and take the next intentional step.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:

• Why “better” can be more powerful and sustainable than “best”

• How the one-percent principle creates lasting change

• What elite athletes, actors, executives, and creatives have in common

• How to use fear and nervousness to improve your performance

• The difference between a giving state and a getting state

• Why planning to win is different from playing not to lose

• How your physical environment influences your mindset and well-being

• How to pursue growth without perfectionism or shame

• Why joy should be the vehicle rather than the reward

Joseph Ari’el Towne’s new book, The Better Mindset, releases globally on September 29. Season two of The Better Mindset podcast premieres this fall.

key topics

• The concept of 'better' as a continuous journey rather than a destination
• The 1% principle and its application in daily life
• Reframing nerves and fear as fuel rather than obstacles
• The importance of speaking kindly to oneself and rewriting negative tapes
• Playing to win versus playing not to lose and its impact on performance
• The difference between a giving and a getting mindset in relationships and work
• Strategies for managing nerves and using them to enhance performance
• The role of joy in sustaining growth and maintaining motivation

Sound Bites

• "Speak to yourself more kindly and rewrite those tapes"
• "Play to win, not just to not lose"
• "Nerves are fuel, not a sign of failure"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joseph Ariel Town and his work

02:04 Why the idea of being the best is limiting

04:05 The 1% principle and daily small shifts

05:37 Playing to win versus playing not to lose

06:52 The giving versus getting mindset in relationships

07:47 Overcoming nerves and performance anxiety

09:10 Reframing nerves as fuel and staying present

10:26 Experiencing joy during the process, not just the outcome

11:18 Where to find Joseph's book and podcast

12:13 Final thoughts: growth is a direction, not a destination

Check out this episode!

Ep 992: Sanya Richards-Ross Reveals What Happens After Olympic Gold

SANYA RICHARDS-ROSS PODCAST INTERVIEW

INTRO

Today’s guest knows what it means to run toward greatness, rise beyond expectations, and reinvent yourself when one chapter comes to an end.

Sanya Richards-Ross is an Olympic champion, world champion, NBC Sports analyst, entrepreneur, author, and one of the most decorated female track and field Olympians of all time. She made history in the 400 meters, winning Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games and anchoring the United States 4x400-meter relay team to three consecutive Olympic gold medals.

Now, Sanya is helping others tell the stories behind their accomplishments as the host of “Beyond the Curve,” a new Scripps Sports Network series exploring life after success, the courage to begin again, and the power of reinvention.

Please welcome the incredible Sanya Richards-Ross to the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T.

10-MINUTE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Sanya, you spent so much of your life chasing a finish line. When you retired from track and field, who were you when there was no longer another race to win?

2. Was there a moment when you realized that reinvention did not mean leaving the Olympic champion behind, but allowing yourself to become something more?

3. Your new series, “Beyond the Curve,” focuses on what happens after someone reaches the height of success. What inspired you to create conversations around the second act?

4. You have interviewed athletes, entertainers, and everyday heroes for the series. What have those conversations taught you about the common fears people face when they are starting over?

5. You made history through discipline, sacrifice, and relentless preparation. Which lessons from the track have helped you most as a broadcaster, entrepreneur, wife, and mother?

6. Many women struggle when their identity has been connected to a title, career, relationship, or achievement. What would you say to the woman wondering, “Who am I now?”

7. We often think of success as winning, but sometimes the greatest victory is having the courage to change direction. How has your personal definition of winning evolved?

8. You have experienced pressure on some of the world’s biggest stages. What did those high-pressure moments teach you about trusting yourself when everything is on the line?

9. What do you hope viewers will feel or recognize within themselves after watching “Beyond the Curve”?

10. Sanya, when you look at your life today, what are you running toward now?

OPTIONAL RAPID-FIRE QUESTIONS

1. One word that describes your life right now?

2. The best advice you have ever received?

3. The person who inspires you to keep going?

4. A daily habit you refuse to skip?

5. Track shoes or high heels?

6. The accomplishment that means the most to you?

7. What does sisterhood mean to you?

8. One thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

9. Finish this sentence: Reinvention requires…

10. What makes you feel strongest?

OUTRO

Sanya, thank you for reminding us that our greatest victory may not be what we accomplish in one season, but how courageously we step into the next one.

Everyone, be sure to watch “Beyond the Curve,” airing Tuesdays at 9 p.m. Eastern on Scripps Sports Network. Episodes will also be available on the Scripps Sports YouTube channel the following day and will air on Bounce at a later date.

And to my sisters, remember, the finish line of one chapter may be the starting line of something even greater. Keep believing, keep evolving, and keep sweating!

10 CLICKBAIT TITLES

1. Sanya Richards-Ross Reveals What Happens After Olympic Gold

2. Beyond the Gold: Sanya Richards-Ross on Starting Over

3. Who Are You When the Applause Stops?

4. Sanya Richards-Ross on Reinvention, Identity, and Her Second Act

5. The Truth About Life After Becoming an Olympic Champion

6. Your Greatest Win May Come After the Finish Line

7. Sanya Richards-Ross: Reinvention Is the Ultimate Victory

8. From Olympic Champion to Powerful Storyteller

9. How to Find Yourself Again After Major Success

10. Beyond the Curve: Sanya Richards-Ross Is Redefining What It Means to Win

SHOW NOTES

ion, NBC Sports, Scripps Sports Network, Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda MitchellWhat happens after you achieve the dream you have spent your entire life pursuing?

In this inspiring episode of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell sits down with Olympic champion, world champion, NBC Sports analyst, entrepreneur, and author Sanya Richards-Ross.

Sanya reflects on the identity shift that followed her retirement from track and field and shares how she learned to embrace a powerful new chapter beyond competition. She discusses the discipline and resilience that helped her become one of the most decorated female track and field Olympians of all time, along with the lessons she now carries into broadcasting, business, marriage, and motherhood.

Sanya also takes us behind the scenes of her new series, “Beyond the Curve.” Through intimate conversations with athletes, entertainers, and everyday heroes, the series explores life after major achievement and proves that reinvention may be the ultimate win.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How to separate your identity from your accomplishments

• Why the end of one chapter can become the beginning of your greatest season

• What Olympic competition taught Sanya about pressure and self-belief

• How to navigate fear when starting over

• Why success is about more than trophies, titles, or applause

• How Sanya’s definition of winning has changed

• What she hopes viewers take away from “Beyond the Curve”

“Beyond the Curve” airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. Eastern on Scripps Sports Network. Episodes are also available on the Scripps Sports YouTube channel the following day and will air on Bounce at a later date.

Connect with Sanya Richards-Ross and follow her journey on social media.

Connect with Linda Mitchell:

Website: SisterhoodofSWEAT.com

Listen and learn more: ListenToLinda.me

 

Check out this episode!