Bachelor Happy Hour - Stephani Sosa: ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ Bad Bunny, and More | Happy Hour

Episode Date: August 19, 2026

Today on “Happy Hour,” Charity is joined by Stephani Sosa from “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.” We kick things off by discussing how Stephani got into dancing, including her time in a troupe. Then, we get all the tea on her experience dancing for Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show! She tells us all about the celebrities there, how she got the opportunity, and more. We also discuss her time on “The Next Pro,” growing up dancing with her brother Spencer Sosa, and so much more. Tune in now and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Yeah, I'm obsessed. I'm obsessed. Listen to Pro Society on the IHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. I survived nine months in captivity, and I've spent my life exploring how other people survive what should have destroyed them. I'm Elizabeth Smart, and these are the Survivor Files. Every week, I'm with survivors who live through the unthinkable, abducted, stalked, controlled, and nearly silenced. These are stories about what it takes to make it out alive. Listen to the Survivor Files with Elizabeth Smart on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. I'm Hoda Kotbby, host of the podcast, Joy 101 with Hoda Kotby.

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and fights back. Guess you didn't move in on a bunch of dumb hillbillies now, did you? Listen to Our Town on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hello, everyone, and welcome back to Bachelor Happy Hour. I'm Charity, and I'm hosting from New York City today by myself without Rachel, but I am not alone, because I am joined with the one and only Stephanie Sosa from Dancing with the Stars Next Pro. I'm so excited. No, I cannot believe, like, we made this happen.

I'm so excited to chat. There's so much that we have to talk about because I remember the last time I think I saw you was actually Miami Swim Week. Yeah, no, it was. It was after. Yes, it was. And I was like, oh, my gosh, I didn't even know you were performing. You absolutely crushed that.

And then I remember the last thing that you said to me. You were like, because I knew you did next, dance with the stars next pro. And I was like, oh, my gosh, like, how did it go? And you were like, it went good, but like, you were like, have my back. So that was the one thing that I remember. I remember. Yes. I was like, I remember that. And I was like, okay, I know, I'm like, gear up. I'm about to be in the comments. And so we will get into next pro. But I want to start, take us back to how was dancing. How was it? How did you get into it growing up in Utah? Yeah. So, yeah, my dance journey has been

kind of insane. I started when I was seven. And then me and Ezra just kind of did it together. And we've been training in every style. And then I left my studio when I was 19 and started working professionally. But yeah, I'm training like basically everything. Yeah. the ballroom, the hip hop, the jazz, contemporary. And yeah, I always knew I wanted to be a professional dancer. So it's, like, so cool that I'm like, finally, like, living that out, like, you know, living out that dream. Yeah. Okay. So at what point did you realize that this could possibly turn into something bigger? It wasn't just like, oh, this is like a fun hobby or an extracurricular activity. Like, when did you have that realization? Like, oh, I can actually

make a career for myself. It's crazy because my dance studio, like, so many amazing dancers came out of, like, are like center stage performing arts yeah and i think like around like 13 just seeing like jena and like whitney carson and like derrick and julian just make a career for themselves and i was like wait i'm from the same place as them or i'm getting the same training like i feel like i'm a little different latina like i feel like i could do it and i think ever since i was 13 my dream was always to be on dancing with the stars so i think ever since just training in utah i just was like dreaming of moving l-a and doing the whole thing so yeah amazing okay so how was growing up up in Utah. Like obviously you're Latina and we know Utah's like you know it's very conservative

it's this you know blanket kind of image of like most people coming out of their like all look the same and they grow up Mormon like I know you guys grew up Mormon and Ezra talked about like leaving the church etc. So like how was that experience for you guys? Yeah it was definitely like hard. It was definitely I think I I handled it. I think me and Ezra like really alchemized it and I think we wouldn't have be where we're at if we hadn't grown up in Utah like I do look back and I'm like I am grateful that I did grow up in that environment just because it did make me who I am today like I wouldn't be as strong I feel like I wouldn't have gone for my dreams like but yeah it was really hard especially just growing up Mormon and you know leaving the church

and everything but I feel like I'm like the happiest I've ever been so I'm just like so grateful I mean I can tell me every time I see you I'm like you're obviously like the most stunning person but I'm like you're always glowing even more every time so I genuinely like it's just it makes my heart happy to see like you crushing it and obviously you know I love Ezra too yeah you guys go way back exactly exactly so speaking of going way back let's talk about your time on Dancing with the Stars you obviously did troop and that was an insane experience how was that for you that was crazy because it was like I felt like my dreams came true like that whole year like Ezra being a pro I got on troop like it was a It was just like the best three months ever. And I was like telling Ezra and like another podcast, I was saying that when I was on Troop, it was like the, I would never wasn't like nervous.

Like it's so weird. Usually like I'm nervous on like Super Bowl. I'm nervous. Like I was like nervous, you know. But like for this, it just felt so right. Mm-hmm. So yeah,

it was definitely amazing. And I learned so much about myself too. Really? Really? Yeah. What was like some of those like, I guess challenges or things that you had to like work through or grow through? with being on troop.

Yeah, I think just like remembering that like I do like belong there. Like I think it was hard to because I was like the first Latina and like I always told myself I wanted to be the first Latina on Troop and all that. And so when I was in that space like I was just trying to like navigate myself and just like that like representing, you know, my community correctly. And I just yeah, it was it learned a lot about myself. Like even how to like style my hair on the show like that's something that I really wanted to like figure. out because I you know moving forward whoever is like on the show like I want them to be have like a really easy experience and not have to feel like it's like the first for them so

yeah that's so beautiful no I'm like I always remember like you and Ezra literally like just history makers it's like no and it really is and it's like so beautiful that you guys obviously get to do like these experiences together but also like you know you have your career and Ezra has his so how has that been like for you guys like basically doing it together but also having your own lane and kind of like doing it side by side with each other yeah i think growing up we thought we'd be doing the exact same things yeah so it's like crazy that like in like the most beautiful way like our careers have been like in and out like we're together doing stuff and then we're not and i think just through each experience it we've grown and like we're able to like teach each other

as well like getting on dancing with stars troop like my social media was like lacking a lot and he was like hey staff so he helps me yeah he's like we're going to post this like i was like okay yeah and And then like emotionally, I feel like I'm there for him with like different experiences and just helping him choreograph. So I feel like our, I think our careers are meant to go in and out in like the most beautiful way. At first it was hard because it felt like we like we were doing exactly what we wanted. But that's like, like you never, never goes as plain. Yes. Okay.

So let's talk. Obviously you had your debut at the Super Bowl and which was insane. I didn't even know obviously you're going to do that until like you teased it a little bit. I was like, wait, stuff's going to be at the Super Bowl. And then I'm like, wait, putting two together. I'm like, you're about to be performing with bad bunny, which is crazy. Obviously, I'm like, I'm a big bad bunny fan, gorgeous human, but I'm like you, you crushed it. So thank you.

Tell me how that like came to be, like how was that experience because I have a lot of questions. So do you know listeners. Yeah. It was crazy because I auditioned back in like October, November time and I didn't even know what I was auditioning for because basically my agent was, yeah. Yeah. What? Like in like, whenever you're auditioning for like big opportunity. the agent doesn't really tell you what it's for just because of like confidentiality like they don't

tell you they won't disclose the artist they'll just give you the dates and like what they're looking for okay so like i'm at this audition i walk like i literally don't i'm just latin vibes we're latin outfit just we're going to be doing so i'm like you know i'm just you know so i went and then i'm in line and i heard people like being like it's for the super bowl and then i like looked in the email and i'm like of course it's the dates of the super bowl like i'm not i don't even put two to Yeah, I was like, I don't fall football. Like I didn't even, and I was like, oh my gosh, like this is crazy. But yeah, there were so many girls at that audition.

It was like definitely scary. But I'm just so happy that I, I did my best and I booked it. And no, I was like, clearly I'm like, you did do your best. And so how does it feel like obviously? Because that Super Bowl performance, I think was like it was for like the culture. But also it was just so much bigger. And I think so many people like appreciated it appreciated that the ones that did. But like how for you?

Like obviously that's huge for yourself and to be like somebody that's selected to be a part of that. Like how did that feel for you? It felt so aligned. Like I feel like the universe like really wanted me a part of that. And I am just so grateful because like a lot of my career, I've been like one of the first Latinas in many spaces. So for the first time I was like around people that were like me. And it was just like it was so healing.

And I just like I remember after like I performed like I was like with all the dancers, screaming backstage. were all, like, sobbing her eyes out. And, like, people, like, call, some dances were, like, facething their parents from Puerto Rico crying. And I just was, like, crying on the phone with the eyes right. I'm like, I'm like, I'm like, I'm just like, like, chills right now.

That's so beautiful. So it was just like the, like, the, like, I think it was, like the best thing I've, like, experience. Yeah. And it was just so beautiful. Oh, yeah. I love that. Did you, I mean, obviously, I'm, you danced alongside him, but did you ever have, like, any, like,

quality time or, like, one-on-one time with that money? I'm like, I want the tea. No, he was very, like, had his security. Okay. But he would, like, come over and, like, stand by the Casitha girls and just be, like, standing there. And we're all just like, like, you guys, I'm like, literally that picture frame. That frame of like, yeah.

We're like, guys, he's coming around the corner. And, like, we're like, just act natural. We're just, like, like, hey, guys. We're like, hi. Like, it was just like, I. Yeah. We also were told, though, like, not to talk to him unless he came and talk to you. Okay.

So just to, like, we're being respectful because there were so many dancers. Yeah. In that wherever we were rehearsing. So yeah, it was crazy. So how was it rehearsing? Like obviously gearing up to the Super Bowl? Like what was practice like? How many rehearsals did you guys have if you can like share any of that?

Yeah. So I, when I got the call, I, they told me it didn't start to like mid January, but there had been people rehearsing since December like creating the different like numbers and stuff. Okay. And so basically like I was group B. So basically group A had been rehearsing for like two weeks. And then I got brought on group B. and it was crazy.

We rehearsed for a month, and it took so long to finally create the tracks, the formations, and, like, a lot of moving parts. Like, we changed choreography a lot. Yeah, I can imagine. Yeah. They would, like, record and then, like, go, and they'd go through production, and they would change things. But, yeah, Bad Bunny didn't come into rehearsals until, like, the last week.

Oh, wow. Once the costumes were set, once our formations was set, everything was set. Camera angles, like, we had so many camera rehearsals. Yeah. Because they had to get those shots perfect. And then he came in once everything was set. And then we basically, the last. Yeah.

Well, it's his thing. So we're like, yeah. He's like, I have nothing to do with this thing. Well, interesting thing is like they actually took our phones. Oh, like during rehearsals. Yeah. So you guys could get no, you have no footage. Oh my gosh.

I mean, that makes sense. But like, wow. They wanted to keep it really secret. Yeah. And also just to like keep us all present in the process because you really had to pay attention. There was like things would be changing. Like we'd be doing choreography. Okay.

we're going to change the whole thing now like five six we're like okay period like we're just going yeah yeah yeah so yeah it was it was definitely so cool and for first time in my life like I felt like I was like back at my dance so you kind of like like like fully present in the work no distractions and like during lunch we had to sit there and talk to each other it was really really cool yeah I love that I really do love that it seems like it's very like immersive like you know it's like you guys are locked in for quite literally a bigger reason were y'all rehearsing in L.A yeah okay and like we would go and like they we had to pretend like we weren't rehearsing there so we'd go to lunch and people like were you guys that is actually so crazy because that I've been like yeah so many dancers

like wearing all because they're all black as well for rehearsals so like so my dances coming out of a building and then they're like what are you rehearsing for we're like oh I don't know like we just had to play so dumb yes which is so crazy yeah and I do have like two more questions about the Super Bowl so obviously like you guys did rehearsals all together but on the day of the Super Bowl like I obviously saw the trees were like people like how did that like work out did you guys have to go over like did y'all do formations like the day of or like a couple days before like what was their role and like how did that work i will say the tree people were my favorite but they didn't come until like the last week too but they had their own rehearsals okay so then when we were all together

it was so cute because they would do their like track and everything and then we'd be dancing they'd be like whoa like frozen yeah guys we're like oh my gosh i love it and like during like breaks we were in this huge arena right yeah all the dances were on this side of arena all the trees and you just see all of these faces just sitting with the trees just like this drinking water and we were dying and they were like doing waves and I was like I was like I would have loved to be a drink no person I said how do I set up yeah I'm no professional but like a tree sounds great no they were like our hype people the whole time and they were so cool. That is funny.

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When I was 14 years old, I was kidnapped and held captive for nine months. I survived, and I've spent my... life exploring how other people survive what should have destroyed them. I'm Elizabeth Smart, and these are the survivor files. I just remember this low, taunting voice next to my ear saying, shut up, don't say anything. Every week, I'm with survivors who live through the unthinkable. I knew if he woke up, without a doubt, he was going to hurt me. I started feeling that there was someone at the end of my bed and I just started screaming. They are abducted, stalked, controlled, and nearly silenced.

But these aren't stories about what's taken from them. There's stories about what it takes to make it out alive. Listen to the Survivor Files with Elizabeth Smart on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hey, this is Hayes Davenport. And Sean Clements. We host the podcast Hollywood Handbook on the Big Money Players Network. Our show is extremely accessible to first-time listeners.

Each week, we talk to someone in show business, aka the biz, and try to help them with their careers and see what they have to offer us. Everyone has a good time, and no one gets mad at their publicists for letting them do our show. We've had a lot of great guests like Sarah Sherman, not that great. Actually, can you help me shape this? How about we flip it on his head, right? How about we flip this script? What is the surprise woman?

But actually you think is the straight man is actually the one who's acting weird. Adam Scott, this entire time you've been expecting Adam Sandler to come to visit the show. I would never expect. I would never set expectations for something like that to happen. If the universe allows for something like that to happen, I'm open to it. I'm always going to accept. You know, Danny McBride, fine. Yeah.

It's all this fragile masculinity exuding. I could smell it walking down the hallway, to be honest with you. I was like, is that weed? Nope, it's fragile masculinity. Ben Stiller, no. Because a lot of times, out of context, people don't get it or even know what a circle is.

You know what I mean? Like, they're like, oh, what's a state. Everyone's so dumb. And fake. Right, fake and also not interested or just like, oh, I've got my life. I don't care about your life. And a lot of other big shots.

that wouldn't be where they are without us. Oh, and by the way, Will Ferrell told us personally he loves the show and he wants to be a guest on every episode, but he's just so busy. Listen to Hollywood Handbook on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. I'm Hoda Kotby, host of the podcast, Joy 101 with Hoda Kotby. If you know me, you know, I'm always searching for inspiration and useful tools to maximize joy. So this podcast lets us uncover those things together. through meaningful conversations with fascinating people.

Like when my friend Henry Winkler offered advice to aspiring actors and really anybody hoping to stand out. You're not hired just to fill time and space. You're hired to fill the space with you. You have something in your guts. You go with it. And Sean Johnson recalled the moment she realized her now husband, Andrew, was the one.

He was just so unapologetically himself and knew nothing of it. of Hollywood. He hadn't been on a plane before without his family. It was so pure. Listen to Joy 101 with Hoda Kotby on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Okay. So, and also my one last question about Super Bowl, we obviously saw Alex Earl make a guest appearance. Was there anybody else that was like celebrities that you got to meet during that process? Yeah, well, it's crazy because when we got cast in Casita, they said you'll be at celebrities, we didn't know who the celebrities were until literally five minutes of them,

like walking towards us, like, setting them in formation. Yeah, so we were just like pretending to like vibe with random. Oh, so you didn't even know Alex was going to be there. No, I had no idea. The rumor was because we were all like, who's going to be? Yeah, yeah, yeah. We like, probably Carol G or Becky G. Like, we were like, for sure.

But I stood next to Jessica Alba. And that was really cool. Because I am obsessed with her and Honey. Yeah. And I was like, you know, like, obsessed. Like, I didn't know how to add. I was like, hey girl, she's like, when do we dance? I'm like, you're going to see them start walking.

And I like told her exactly, like, and then you're going to start dancing. So she's like, we're like, we're like, pose. And then I'm like, she's like, when do you dance? When do we dance? I'm like, now. No, it was really good. Oh, my God. Like an incredible experience, incredible opportunity.

Do you feel like that's something you want to like keep doing, like things like that, like performing for, you know, singers or musicians? Like, is that the lane that you want to kind of take? You know, I am open to anything at this point. I feel like my, my journey has been very unexpected but beautiful and like the most, like the best way. So I'm just kind of open to whatever the universe is getting. Like if I get called to do something, I'll do it. If I go an audition, I'm just going to try to do everything that I can, every opportunity and just maximize it.

And yeah, but I do, I really do love hip hop. Yeah. No, I'm like, if you guys have never seen stuff dance hip hop, that's why I was like she's great in all areas. But I'm like, oh my God, like you really shine. Like, you know, like you shine in every. thing but like I'm like oh this girl hip hop is it yeah so I'm like I'm just I'm gonna definitely take the next couple months and like really train in every style that I can yeah especially I'm when I get back in my hip hop too because I I miss it yeah yeah I'm like I'm like I'm like I

you know you are a star but I'm like like music video like video like yeah it's crazy because like he's doing random music video is like I did a Becky G one recently like I just keep I'm like I did a Ross Litch one but when I first I'm like I'm like I did a Ross Litch one but when I first moved to LA and I was like the lead girl I keep this and then I did a music video randomly for Armichick he's like this huge Armenian artist okay I don't I'm not familiar I wasn't either and like I was the lead girl and I was like it was like a Latin number yeah I guess I got like two million views on YouTube so I'm like I guess maybe that's my positive I don't know no I'm like you do good at any and everything you do like seriously but I'm like yes I would love to continue to see you shine in that

Do you have any interest, like, in Broadway or, like, musical theater? Yeah. I do. I did. I did work, like, dabbled my feet in it a little bit. I did, like, a pre, like, Broadway run of, like, take the lead. So I was here for, like, three months. Yeah.

Okay. Yes. Yes, yes, yes. Okay. So, I mean, if that goes to Broadway, I'd love to be a part of it. Like, I would, you know, I'm kind of open to everything. I did use to sing when I was little, too. Okay.

So she's, like, like, triple threat. You know, also, like, Ezra, because the fans don't know us, but Ezra, but Ezra used to sing too. Like we both used to sing. So like I'm like Ezra like maybe you can. Wait, I'm so sorry. We have to pause for Joseph. I, you're telling me news and I'm like, I love your brother.

Wait. We were in Greece. Like, and I, we were like, we had two rooms. Like my mom and I were in a room. Ezra like is amazing. He bought her whole trip. Anyway, Edge is in the other room and like we can hear. And then we just hear him singing in the shower.

And then I text him. I'm like, come on singer. He's like, shut up. No, I'm about to live. But he's really good. Wait, this is crazy. I don't think that's, like, such a, like, hidden talent that I don't think anybody knows about either. He's going to kill me for saying this.

That's okay, but I'm like, you told me first. I love. Yeah. But that is actually unbelievable. You guys should do, have you heard of, um, what's it called? Like, the voice celebrity. It's like a new sector. No, I haven't heard of it.

I'm like, do you guys need to go on it? Oh, no. No, I don't think we're like that. But if we train and, like, maybe in, like, a year or two, I'd be, I would love to do, like, Broadway, like that. Okay. Wow. That is.

I'm like, this is breaking news. He's going to kill me. No, it's okay. I'm like, Ezra, we love it. We love you, Ezra. So, like, this adds to the love. There's nothing wrong here. Wait, I did not know that.

And I'm genuinely shook in my boots right now. Yeah. Crazy. Okay, let's talk about next pro. Dancing with the Stars. Obviously, congratulations on being casted and having that opportunity. Tell us what was that like when you found out that you were going to be on that show. Yeah.

obviously you have had quite the journey within the dancing with the stars family yeah i will i remember getting the email to audition like in november yeah and i thought it was a scam because it was like i'm like so confused i'm like next pro like i don't know you know sometimes get those weird like emails yeah so i like i like i called edard i'm like is this real like is this like and he was like let me see and he's like oh yeah it's real and i was like why didn't you tell me about this like i'm like wait did he not know what he's like i don't know girl like i was like okay um But yeah, and then I was like, you know what? I'm just gonna audition and like, see.

So I just, they had me send in like, I did like interviews and like, you know, they know me. So I just sent in like all my dance stuff again, like recent. I had to re-film things. And then I got the call when I was actually at Super Bowl rehearsals like dirt. Like I like ended rehearsals walking out. And then I got the call and I was like, wait, this is crazy. No, I was like, that is crazy.

Like two big like opportunities happening almost at the same time. That's crazy. Yeah. And my immediate like reaction was like, fuck yes. I'm doing this. Yeah, I was like, the universe wouldn't put it in my path. I, like, wasn't meant, like, you know, if I wasn't meant to do it. And so I was like, I'm going to go for 100%.

And I was like, hey, training mode. So I remember after that, I started scheduling, like, my privates and just, like, starting to, like, train. So after Super Bowl, I'd, like, go to studio and, like, take lessons, like, tango and all of the things that I was, like, not the best at and just really just train and train. Because soon as Super Bowl was done, I had a week. And I was here and I saw you. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.

We went to dinner with us. Yeah. That's like, when I saw you. And then from there I left. Yes, because I remember you told me you were like, I'm getting ready to leave. Remember how anxious? You were.

I'm like, we were literally running around, like trying to grab stuff, like shopping. But then I was like, wait, where are you going? But I didn't even, I don't think I put you on together that it was for that. Yeah. Oh my gosh. That was such a quick turnaround. Yeah. So then I like went right away and I flew to Australia and then, yeah, I was there.

So. Oh my gosh. I literally, I'm like, I have so many questions. Okay. So the cast obviously is like, I think you were the only one from Troop that was on there. And most of everyone else either has like a history with like competition ballroom or was from so you think you can dance. Yeah.

So like did you know most of them or were they all like new faces for you? I knew everybody except for Nina and AJ. Okay. So basically, yeah, I knew everybody. Okay. Oh, and Tristan. I didn't know him before. Okay.

So yeah. Yeah. I knew literally every single person. Yeah. Because like Eric was like a ballroom dancer. growing up he was phenomenal and then briar everyone knows briar so it's just like i knew like basically yeah and then natalie i knew well as well because she actually did the off-broadway thing job with me oh okay fine and she's from my studio too so i just like we all like knew each other yeah yeah it's crazy um oh my gosh really i'm like

i honestly really did enjoy the show like i enjoyed the format of and i was like oh this is like very different but it's like it's interesting because it was also like interesting just to see like almost like the pros come back to you and like judge and like you and like you give you guys notes, but it was like different, almost in a different light than what we typically see them on like the actual Dancing with the Stars show. Like I feel like, I don't know, in a way, it was like a little bit more personal. And I'm like, I actually love this. Like it was good. So how was like the experience overall? Like obviously we know that you just got eliminated this past week. So how how was the process in it's? I will say the process for me was like really healing.

Like some like, especially my week to Rumba with Tristan, like just be able to do that was like, I just like so happy um i did learn a lot about i was like i would say like i'll growth was like the thing i took from it i grew a lot yeah in that experience and just like it really all the things i've been like training for like was put to the test and such a short amount of time in that in that environment and that competition and so yeah it was definitely it was good and i i'm glad i did it like i'm really happy that i went and i just went for as much as i could so and so it's so funny because I was like, obviously when I saw you last at Miami Swimming, you were like, have my back. And I was like, I got you.

Which is like so crazy because I'm like, we know like obviously social media is like a beast of its own. And it comes with so many great things, but also like there is like a negative part of it. Yeah. And I remember I was like, okay, like the first episode came out. And then I think people like just kind of like took something and ran with it. They're like, oh, it's definitely stuff. Like stuff is like I saw that like comment so many times of like stuff's the next pro. And like, you know, people just like make.

assumptions or whatever but how was like having the feedback from just the audience and how well did you like obviously digest it what was like some challenging parts for you yeah i definitely knew that like on the show like you know the danceman stars fans like they really are invested so like they're going to comment basically in any opinion they have which is awesome for the show but also like just i had to remember that going in um the like feedback on the show like was great like i feel but they didn't really air a lot of every judge's like comment they definitely cut out like a lot of things really okay from like for everybody so um i think the audience feedback i just take it and i like i like i'll like whenever i get comments like that especially if they're like a lot of just like negative comments or just like maybe work

on this like i'll like listen to it and i'll think about it and i'm like if it doesn't i'm like if honestly they might be right of some things you know perhaps and then if it doesn't serve me i kind just like let it brush off and I keep going. Especially like on the comments with my hair, that really was like hard for me. No, I literally, I was like, I can't join this conversation. I'm like, I got your back on everything because I was like, I'm going to get myself in trouble because I'm like, I just thought it was like insane. Like you know what I mean?

It was just too like fixated on that and I'm like that's if that's the only thing that you can say or like fine to critique about stuff, then I mean she's doing a great job. You know what I mean? And it's just like it's so like it's just something that's like not needed. And I did not appreciate that because I'm like, you just don't comment on a woman of colors hair, but like, who am I? Who am I? Yeah. But no, I will say, like, I feel like you handled yourself so well.

And, like, obviously, like, we see Ezra was able to, like, support you and, like, you guys did a lot of content together. So how has that been, like, having, obviously, your brother's support? Like, I know he's the best and he's done everything. He told me, like, he's a girl, I got your back. So just, like, I don't know, I'm just, like, grateful I had him in my corner because I think it would have been really hard. And even like there was like one day I was like crying about it and he just came and told me he's like Steph like you're having these hard situations and these hard conversations because future people are not going to be able to have the like you're going to you're going to make it easy for them.

Yeah. Like being able to navigate curly hair on a ballroom is like very rare and not a thing. Like even when I could pee, I had I slicked my hair or I did like half a half downer. Which is great. I get it. It's like, you know, I get it. It's like ballet. It's classy.

It's all the things. But I think for my younger self, I really wanted to be authentically myself for that first week. So that's why I had it all the way out. Yeah. No, I'm like, I love your hair. I'm like, let it lose. Let it lose.

Yeah. Our radio experience with Cameron Wickcomb. Live at the Ryman. You and a pal with flights and two nights in Nashville. To see Cameron Wickcombe at the legendary Ryman Auditorium. Plus a thousand dollar spending caps. Just another day. She ain't know the fear.

Just listen to Pure Country for 10. 10 minutes a day on the free IHart Radio app, and you're in to win. Cameron Wickham. Stream the new single, Kingdom of Fear. Available now. If your bookshelf and your 4-U page are equally important to your personality, welcome home. This is Proz Society, the weekly podcast that's part book club, part group chat for thought daughters, pop culture obsessives, and anyone who thinks Pride and Prejudice and Love Island deserve the same level of discourse.

I'm Eli Rallo, and every week we're connecting the dots between. books, the internet, and the conversations everyone can't stop having. I'm going to have to look up this story. I'm obsessed. From bestselling authors and your favorite book talk creators to the latest pop culture moments, nothing is off the table. It's like if you can hide some real messages inside compelling characters, then that is a Trojan horse.

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Shut up. Don't say anything. Every week, I'm with survivors who live through the unthinkable. I knew if he woke up. Without a doubt, he was going to hurt me. I started feeling that there was someone at the end of my bed, and I just started screaming. They are abducted, stalked, controlled, and nearly silenced. But these aren't stories about what's taken from them. There's stories about what it takes to make it out alive.

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Actually, can you help me shape this? How about we flip it on his head, right? How about we flip this script? What is the surprise woman? Actually, you think is the straight man is actually the one who's acting weird. Adam Scott. This entire time, you've been expecting Adam Sandler to come to visit the show. I would never expect.

I would never set expectations for something like that to happen. If the universe allows for something like that to happen, I'm open to it. I'm always going to accept. You know, Danny McBride, fine. Yeah, it's all this fragile masculinity exuding. I could smell it walking down the hallway, to be honest with you. I was like, I was like, is that weed? Nope, it's fragile masculinity.

Ben Stiller, no. Because a lot of times, out of context, people don't get it or even know what a circle is. circle is. You know what I mean? They're like, oh, what's the state. Everyone's so dumb. And fake. Right. Fake and also not interested or just like, oh, I've got my life. I don't

care about your life. And a lot of other big shots that wouldn't be where they are without us. Oh, and by the way, Will Ferrell told us personally he loves the show and he wants to be a guest on every episode, but he's just so busy. Listen to Hollywood Handbook on the IHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

I'm Hoda Kotbby, host of the podcast, Joy 101 with Hoda Kotb. If you know me, you know, I'm always searching for inspiration and useful tools to maximize joy. So this podcast lets us uncover those things together through meaningful conversations with fascinating people. Like when my friend Henry Winkler offered advice to aspiring actors and really anybody hoping to stand out. You're not hired just to fill time and space. You're hired to fill the space with you. You have something in your guts. You go with it.

And Sean Johnson recalled the moment she realized her now husband, Andrew, was the one. He was just so unapologetically himself and knew nothing of Hollywood. He hadn't been on a plane before without his family. It was so pure. Listen to Joy 101 with Hoda Kotby on the IHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast. or wherever you get your podcasts. Okay, so this past week was a harder episode. And I think a lot of the fans got to see that.

There was like maybe not so great comments about Tristan and like how his attitude was in rehearsals with you. So like if you can tell us a little bit like how was that navigating working alongside him? Yeah. And, you know, ultimately like seeing you guys have to say goodbye or like that being y'all's last dance. How was like that for you? Yeah, it was definitely like I felt like I saw like I felt Tristan like I remember when he first Got into the house like I was like just so you know like I got your back because like I like there's not many people like us in that space And I was like if you need anything and if you feel like out of place like just come talk to me because I know I feel you yeah

And so I think we we created like a beautiful like friendship and I think it was just hard because like in the competition like my stakes were really high like I like have to keep keep reminding myself. that like I trained my whole life for this moment. Yeah, yeah, yeah. And so I am a very empathetic person. So if I care about somebody, sometimes I'll like, you know, you know, not really honor what is it that I need to do. And so, I mean, it was hard that week, like, disappointing him. But I knew that it was the right decision for me.

Yeah. And but when we did come together and we like, you know, made up and everything, like we really did make the most out of that, you know, having to do another rumba again. Like, and Ezra told me going in, like, which is the best piece of advice I ever got from him was like, whatever cards you're like, whatever cards you're, dealt like you just make the most out of it because you never know you never know and like you know

like when he was parted with an adelvie like it wasn't the greatest card but he made the most out of that i'm telling you like if anyone could do it it was him and he really did that so he was like yeah basically when i got the rumba i was like i'm just remembering that i'm like who knows like this is an opportunity for me to show the judges i can create another dynamic rumba that's different from the one we just did so i just really try to like think of it positive positively but like towards the end i was just kind of like It was a lot. Yeah. It was a lot.

Yeah. But I'm very proud of the Rumba that we did. Like with the, like the cards. Like I just, I'm very happy with it. So. No, I mean, all the dances I thought like truly, like I said, I'm your biggest fan. I'm like you shied in everything. Thank you.

How was, um, how was it choreographing the numbers? Like you guys obviously collectively together choreograph. So how was that experience or choreographing? Um, like in the group week. Um, yeah. But also like in like, like, like, whenever you guys are paired. Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah.

It was crazy because we only had five hours for each routine. So, like, week, like. Like a week? No, no, like, we had like basically two days. Oh, for every dance. Yeah, so we had three hours the first day. Yeah, yeah. And they timed it.

Like, we walked in. It was like a timer and we had to choreograph it. And they, we listened to the music right away. We just start going. Oh, wow. Yeah, it was very much like high stakes. Like, we had to be ready. So that was hard.

And then I think we had two or three hours the next day depending on. But they wanted to make it fair for everybody. so everybody had the same amount of hours, which I thought was great. Yeah. Fair. Yeah, yeah. So, yeah, that was crazy.

Because even on dancing with stars, like, you don't, you get, you get like at least a week. Yeah, that's what I was like. Oh, wow. This is like, and no phone. Yeah, cut that and a half. Yeah. Cut that and a half is crazy. So if I wanted to be inspired by a routine or like maybe like figure out a cool lift,

like I couldn't go on you. Like we could, but like we had a certain amount of like time. So. Oh my gosh. It was the hardest thing I've ever done. I didn't even think about you guys not having your phone. Yeah. I couldn't like text as a matter of routine be like what needs work like you know like and we'll

do that with each other like he'll send me stuff like of him and Jordan last year and be like yeah what do you think for her arms I'm like oh maybe like you know we help each other yeah yeah yeah a lot of self reliance it seems like yeah you're like going in there and that's it you only have yourself yeah literally yourself and your talent wow yeah I'm like it carried you so like I'm honestly so happy for you like I really am and obviously my biggest thing is like I love keeping up with what's next for you. So is there anything that you can tease for us about what's next, a fun project? And it's okay if you can't, but like, I'm like, we're all like curious. I will say that I'm going to keep training in like ballroom. I know I sit on the show is like I was like

kind of closing the chapter, but I'm just going to keep trying. But I'm also going to put my eggs in other baskets. Yeah. And like I am doing like an acting project soon. So I'm really excited about that. Okay. And then yeah, I'm just going to keep. keep training. Maybe I really want to get back in my hip hop bag too. So we'll see. No, I'm like, hip hop is it. That's like the consensus from this interview is like, Steph wants to be a hip hop girlie and she will be. So yeah. Oh my gosh. Okay. Amazing. Okay, we're going to play a quick game. Yeah, let's do it. Because I'm like, I love, I love, love, love games. It's basically rapid fire. So just first answer that comes to your mind. Okay. But it's like, you know, related to you.

Okay. The first one, most nerve-wracking performance that you've ever done. Um, my week one next pro. Yeah. Yeah. But I'm like, you also killed it. Thanks. Okay. One artist still on your dance bucket list.

Tyler. What, okay, you know what? No, that makes so much sense. Yeah, I'm obsessed for her. No, that makes, I'm manifesting that right now. Like, I need to see you. Wait, no, that act. I'm like, you are like her.

Like, wait, no, this makes so much sense. Yes. I think she's such a body and I love her. choreography too. Yes, I was like, it's very fitting for you. Yeah, I love that. I'm like, I love her. Okay, great. Yes, we're going to manifest that we'll see stuff with Tyler very soon. Okay, what celebrity do you think could take home the next Mirabal? Honestly, I forgot her name, but she danced, she did like a little like spin and dip with Val at Miami Swimming. Mara. Mara. Yeah. Yeah, yeah. I was like her back and her legs and her feet. I'm like, she was

literally ballroom girly. Like she just needs some training and she's going to be great. Which is so funny because I was like, wait, when I saw that, I was like, oh, she's going to crush, like, ballroom. And I feel like for like, because I'm like petite like her too. I was like, I was, I struggled so much with Latin. So I was like, it's going to be interesting to see like which is her struggles. And you did not struggle. You were good. That talk show with Ezra was fire.

With the help with you and Ezra. Literally, we was hours in the studio. But yes. I feel like she would do good regardless. But I also have Sierra. Like, Sierra, I feel like is going to crush it. No. Her personality, too.

I feel like is like very. I need a win. I need a win for the girlies. Yeah. No. Yeah. So I'm putting my money on Tierra. Me too.

Just kidding. I'm changed my answer. Okay. Who's funnier? You or Ezra? For sure, Ezra. He's just funny. He's just funny.

He's always been funny and he forever will be funny. No, he really is one of a kind. Yeah. He really is. Okay. What is your biggest dating red flag? About yourself? About myself?

Yeah, that's what. That's my note. About myself. I'm really bad at communicating sometimes. That's okay. I get lost with time. Like, I'll, like, be out and about and I'll, like, forget to text my boyfriend that I've been, like, that I went to this.

And, like, I'm just really bad because I'm so in my career. So that's probably my red flag is I'm very much career person. Okay. So sometimes I will put my career over my person. So, but as a woman, like, I feel like that's okay sometimes. Listen, it is, it is okay. I'm just more obsessed with my career, which is like maybe, I don't know. I'm like balance, there's balance and everything.

But I do appreciate that it's that and not something else. You know what I mean? It's for your career. So I'm always supportive of that. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. We're not mad at it.

Morning person or night owl. Yeah. Nile for sure. Yeah. I'll be up to like two in the morning. I'm screaming. Literally crazy. Literally.

Okay. One song. Guarante to get you dancing. One song. Oh, staying alive. Okay. I don't know why. Just like, oh, that's so sexy.

Just a girl in he'll just think, da, nah, no, no, no. Oh, no, no. Yeah. Like, the 80's hair. Yeah, that's been a part. Yeah. Okay, that's a good one.

The best part about being on dancing with the stars next pro is. The growth. Oh. Okay, that's a good, that's a beautiful answer. Yeah. Yeah. I feel like those shows always, like, it's, it pushes you to extremes, you know? Yeah.

And it's like, it really is about what you learn, what you take away from it. It's not always going to be the easiest path. But I appreciate that. Yeah. Okay, great. What's one dream you still haven't checked off your list? I really want to be in a feature film where I can sing, dance, and act. Like, do all three.

Okay, beautiful. That's like, really, that's like big, big, big down the line. I'm like, maybe soon. You're like, that's a way down. And I'm like, maybe next week. Yeah. Okay, cool. If your friends called you from jail.

Oh, period. What do you think they would assume? the reason would be I'm not surprised and they probably say I'm not surprised probably honestly I don't know I'm like so curious because I'm like I feel like I know you but I don't know I'm like maybe I'm like probably when I get like a little too drunk I get like really emotional and like if you like piss me off I'll scream that's okay so maybe if I'm like too much screaming I don't know like potentially like getting in a fight with somebody or accidentally do something I do a lot of things on accident like I'm just like sometimes I'm just not yeah yeah like I'll

forget like my wallet or yeah stuff like that so maybe accidentally do something i don't know amazing i think you know it's so funny i think ezra i messaged me at miami swim week and that was like one of his questions what do he say oh god is step is step out is she lit right now and i was like no i saw her up she just performed i think she's good yeah yeah it's so funny so yeah like that's like i'm like i'm like i'm like was crazy like i was just like i want to have fun like i'm loud I love that. We support it over here. Okay. Would you rather hand out a rose or receive one? Oh. Ew. Um, I hand out a rose. Okay. And with that, I do have a question. Would you ever do like a dating show? Ah! Um, not those, not the. Um, if I'm single, probably. Oh, yeah, you're dating. Yeah. If I was single, then, yeah, probably.

That's my bad. Actually, crazy for asking that. I would love to do Love Island just for the fits. I feel like you would do good. Like I wouldn't even want to find a man. Like I just want to like dress up. And the friendships. Yeah. Yeah. The friendships are the girls and then the fits.

Period. They're all of like I feel like I dress like that when I go out. So I'm like definitely I would just love that. Maybe we can make it happen just for like a time. You know. I'm just your stylist. Okay. Yeah.

Oh my gosh. Well, thank you, Stephanie. Thank you. So much for joining us today. This was honestly a pleasure and like you know I love you so much. Like you're the best at what you do and just honestly have such a good head on. your shoulders. So you're a biggest fan over here and always supporting you and rooting for your success. And you're a body and I love you. Period. Where can our listeners follow you at?

At Steffey Chica on Instagram and TikTok. Period. And for our listeners, you can follow us at Bachelor Happy Hour and Bachelor Nation. Make sure you rate reviews, subscribe, wherever you listen to your podcast and we'll see you guys soon. Bye. If your bookshelf and your for-you page are equally important to your personality, welcome home. Pro Society is a weekly podcast that's part book club, part group chat for anyone who thinks pride and prejudice and love island deserve the same level of discourse. Each week, we're connecting the dots between books, the internet, and pop culture with your favorite writers, book talk creators, and plenty of overthought opinions. Yeah, I'm obsessed. I'm obsessed.

Listen to pro society on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever. you get your podcasts. I survived nine months in captivity, and I've spent my life exploring how other people survive what should have destroyed them. I'm Elizabeth Smart, and these are the Survivor Files. Every week, I'm with survivors who live through the unthinkable, abducted, stalked, controlled, and nearly silenced.

These are stories about what it takes to make it out alive. Listen to the Survivor Files with Elizabeth Smart on the IHeart Radio app. Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. I'm Hoda Kotbby, host of the podcast, Joy 101 with Hoda Kotb. You know, I'm always searching for inspiration and useful tools to maximize joy. Like when my friend Henry Winkler offered advice to aspiring actors and really anybody hoping to stand out. You're not hired just to fill time and space.

You're hired to fill the space with you. Listen to Joy 101 with Hoda Kotby on the I Heart Radio. app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Our hometown is not a test tube. 90 miles northeast of Nashville, a battle for the future of America, plays out in one small town. Developers with right-wing ties have purchased hundreds of acres of land. We need cities on a shining hill.

This is our town, a podcast about what happens when a small town becomes the site of a social experiment and fights back. Guess you didn't move in on a bunch of dumb hillbillies now, did you? Listen to Our Town on the IHeart Radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hello, my love. I'm Ryan Weiss, and for the past 15 years, I've been an emotional intelligence coach and a spiritual guide, and I'm sharing with you my new podcast, Waking Up with Ryan. Waking Up with Ryan is a daily audio video podcast, here to help you connect with yourself before the noise of the day takes over. So let's start our days together with a moment of calm.

That's just for you. Listen to waking up with Ryan on the IHeart radio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This is an IHeart podcast. Guaranteed human.