Off The Vine with Kaitlyn Bristowe - Ezra Sosa | His Coming Out Journey, JoJo Siwa, & DWTS

Starting point is 00:00:00 This episode of Off the Vine is brought to you by Tonal. Right now, Tonal is offering our listeners $200 off your tonal purchase with promo code Vine. And Apartments.com, the place to find a place. You're listening to Off the Vine with Caitlin Bristow. Hey, Vino's, real quick, if you are listening right now, which obviously you are, you wouldn't be hearing this, can you hit the subscribe or follow button on whatever platform you're on? Please, that one simple thing helps more than you even realize it allows me to keep growing on this podcast. and making these episodes the best they can possibly be obviously for you.

Starting point is 00:00:38 That's the only favorite I'm going to ever ask, okay? It truly means the world to me. Thank you. Now, let's get into it. Hey, everybody. Welcome to Off the Vine. I'm your host, Caitlin Bristow. I'm so excited.

Starting point is 00:00:46 I get so hyped anytime I get to talk to anyone from Dancing with the Stars. And I can't believe I haven't had Ezra on the podcast yet. But everybody knows Ezra from TikTok. He was a dancer for Jojo Siwa. And now he's one of the pros on Dancing with the Stars. And he made it on his second year of being a pro. he made it all the way to the end with Olympic gymnast Jordan Childs, plays third and had what Carrie Annabah said was one of the best freestyles she's seen in 20 years.

Starting point is 00:01:11 I tried to not take that personally, but it was iconic. In this episode, we talked about his journey to becoming a pro. We talked about what it actually takes to earn that role behind the scenes, what it's like going from being eliminated early in his first season to making it to the end. And we also talk about something obviously much deeper, his coming out journey, the role that JoJo Siwa played in his journey and helped him step into. his truth, which is always amazing, what it was like growing up in Utah and not feeling fully able to be yourself and then how free it must feel after to be able to just be living your truth,

Starting point is 00:01:42 which he is obviously doing. So Ezra is honest. I feel like he's self-aware. He's so sweet and someone who's just very much in the middle of his story. I can't wait to see where he is like five, 10 years from now. So let's get into it. Ezra, welcome to the podcast. Where in the world are you right now? I'm in National Harbor. Do you have you performed here on tour? I don't remember. I went to like 70 different cities. I don't remember where I went or the name of like that does not sound familiar to me. It was the MGM Hotel. Oh, yes. I did. Yes. So I'm there now. So I love this hotel. It's very nice. Oh, are you an Alan gambling? I miss gambling with Alan. T. I don't gamble. I do not. But he's so good at it. he's so good he's tapped in and it's actually really cute seeing him because he talks about it all the time and I feel like whenever he talks about it I'm just like yeah whatever like just straight guy stuff but when he when he actually gambles in like this is kind of cute like he actually gets very into it that's like a core memory for me was on tour Alan and I loved gambling and he I was like same thing I was like sure he's probably as good as I am which I just wing it all the time but he was so strategic and he won so much money on a slot machine and what I really like is

Starting point is 00:02:51 is he took everyone out for dinner and paid for it because of that. Oh. Oh. Well, that's nice. Oh. It was nice. I'm going to tell him that so he can do it for us. Okay.

Starting point is 00:02:59 Yeah. If he wins again, he probably won't tell you because he was like, shit, I have to do the right thing. Now he's just going to keep it to himself. But yeah, the tour life. The tour life is crazy. So thank you for joining the podcast. Of course.

Starting point is 00:03:10 It's, it's insane. I don't think people understand how much work we do. Like, we're doing a show every day. Well, let's tell them. Let's start off with how. how tour life is because I knew it firsthand and I had no idea. Like when people, okay, for example, country music stars when they tour from Nashville, they'll go for like four days and then they get to come home and spend like the weekend

Starting point is 00:03:34 there. This is, you guys are gone for how much, like until May? Yes. On a bus. Sometimes once in a blue moon, you get to stay at a hotel, which is usually just for like one, maybe two nights. But otherwise you are on a bus from how many months is that that you're on a bus? We started mid-January.

Starting point is 00:03:51 and then we're done mid-May. So it's five months on the bus. Why? Why that long? The good news of that is the fact that the show is such a hit. So obviously there's such a demand for our tour. After this season, there was so much support that I personally felt from so many people. I wanted to be able to give back and dance every single night. And just like once that tour, like once the show hits, I am the happiest person ever.

Starting point is 00:04:17 I love hearing the audiences. I love meeting the fans. just because I feel like I have such a weird close relationship with all of them. Like a lot of people online say that like they're my close and personal best friend. But like that feels very real. Like whenever I'm performing, whenever I'm meeting these people, that's how it feels. It's just there's something so electric about being in a room with people that just support and respect what you do and are blown away by what you do. And I've seen the tour before.

Starting point is 00:04:41 It is not the one you're on right now. Hopefully when you guys come to Nashville, I'll be there. But it is so impressive and how much work goes into it and just what you guys do every single night. And I think about this often with touring for like even my podcast. Like I'm not on a bus, but just meeting the people who support you and, and show up for you all the time. It's there's nothing compares. It's the best.

Starting point is 00:05:02 It's exhausting. But I am so snatched right now. Yes. Like I am looking at the mirror and I'm like, oh, girl. I'm like, you may be tired, but you look so good. And we all, like, all of us look. Like, did you see Pasha? Did you see the app?

Starting point is 00:05:20 Honestly, everybody's body on Dancing with the Stars stresses me out because I'm just like, do I have to dance every day to be snatched? Is that what it's what it takes over there? There is a way to do it, but I definitely feel like if you're on this tour, it's just a little easier to lose weight because you are. And you're getting spray tans every week? I've exed out the spray tans. Oh, well, you don't need to. Well, I'm, yeah, I'm Hispanic, but also it gets on the costumes, even though they say it doesn't. And I hate the fact that wardrobe every single day has to like scrub out my spray tan like that.

Starting point is 00:05:53 Like I just don't like the fact that they have to do that. So I've just, I've been going rogue this tour. Yes. Wow, raw dogging it. I know. I'm raw dog and I'm very proud of myself. How old are you? 25.

Starting point is 00:06:05 You little baby with already so much wisdom and knowledge and empathy for others. I really love this about you. Now, tell me. Thank you. Because you grew up in Utah, which is very, you know, as we all know, the Mormon wives, Do you watch that and then do you go, this is accurate or do you go, that's a little crazy? Oh, you know, I watch that shit. I watch it.

Starting point is 00:06:25 When it came out, oh, I was that. When I came out, I was teaching Anadilly how to dance. And I remember just being in New York, like, just after those rehearsals and watching it and just like, it is reality TV. We both know how reality TV can get. But some of the stuff that happens on that show isn't far fetch from what I've experienced growing up in Utah, which is probably comforting for me to watch. watch it because now I'm like, okay, now everyone can see like what my childhood was relatively like. Well, and that's what I want to kind of dive into because I didn't know, I don't know why I get so invested in. I love gays so much and I get so invested in their coming out story that

Starting point is 00:07:04 I like, I don't know if it's like annoying to always talk about it or if you feel empowered by it, but I want to talk about it because first of all, I didn't know that I didn't know that you and Jojo C-Wall were like that tight before any of this. Like, what age did you come out? And why did Jojo see what have a big part of that? So if you would have known me as a kid growing up, you would have known I was gay. I think it was more of me accepting it. I think that was the biggest drawback to what really made me come out publicly. When I met Jojo, I was 20, 21 when I met her.

Starting point is 00:07:33 So not too long ago, honestly. Yeah. And I feel like her personality and her persona is so out there. She's so unapologetically herself. Like, she's so good at that kind of stuff. And she saw me. she knew I was gay from the jump. And she called me out.

Starting point is 00:07:47 She's like, are you gay? And I was like, yeah. And I feel like just being who she is, like, she's such a kindhearted person. She saw that and she just wanted me to see how powerful it is to be gay and how amazing it is to be comfortable in your own skin. So you were dancing for Jojo's tour before all of this. Yes, it was. Okay. I had glitter, hair, rainbow.

Starting point is 00:08:09 Now I'm remembering, yes. Yes, it's starting to come back to you. Because I remember that this was during your tour of dancing. Yes, because you guys came To one of the shows, the two Yeah, yeah, yeah, okay, yes, I do And I remember looking you up on Instagram And seeing the rainbow hair

Starting point is 00:08:22 Yes, okay, bless, we could forget About that part, honestly You rocked it Thanks, sis, thank you But on that tour, it was like The rainbow hair, the glitter, She did my makeup every single day, It was so hard for me

Starting point is 00:08:35 And she was a person that was like, Okay, let's break this down. Why is it hard for you? And I was like, because growing up It wasn't okay And she was like, but it is okay And it's because she basically laid out my inner homophobia and helped me get through it. So when I did came out, it was so scary.

Starting point is 00:08:52 But she had my back. And that to me is like, I'll never forget that active kindness and service that she did for me in that time. Because if it wasn't for that, I don't think I would have been able to come out publicly. Which now, I mean, if you look at it, you're here you are openly queer. One of the most visible pros on Dance with the Stars. You're helping lead a show that millions of people watch. And every single week you get to inspire people who maybe in the same place you are, but you, like, you inspire me without even, you know, not just the fact that you're gay. You just inspire me because you like chase your dreams.

Starting point is 00:09:24 You're a good person. You're so entertaining. I feel like you are unapologetically who you are, which I can't even believe because you have been conditioned for a way of thinking. And the fact that you can even say that you had inner homophobia is so crazy to me because you were conditioned to think that way by your culture. Like what specifically were you afraid of losing by being open? The thing I was afraid of losing was the people I cared about. Even when my parents were starting to find out that I was gay, they were very like, no, this is not okay. If you do this, this is the path that you'll go down.

Starting point is 00:09:55 And I don't even think my parents knew and understood what it was like to be gay in those times. I just think society, like they just hear these terrible stories of these gay people and like the lives that they live and how it's not okay. And that's ultimately what they were afraid of, especially with my mom. I also feel like my mom, I was like my mom's favorite child. So I feel like my mom growing up, she was living like vicariously through me. And she had this idea of what my life was going to be like with my wife and my kids. And so I think when she started seeing that wasn't coming true, she was doing everything in her power to make me think, okay, this is not okay. But really, coming out, it was the hardest, easiest thing I ever did.

Starting point is 00:10:38 And it, like, at the time when I was like hitting send on that post, like, it was an instant. grandpa so like my hands were shaking and I sent it and I was freaking out. And then days went by and like, everyone still loved me the same. My mom still loves me the same. My parents still loves me the same. My community back in Utah still loves me the same. And that to me was just like the best lesson I ever learned. I'm like just because you may think they don't support you or they don't like you because of who you are. You just have to present themselves to you. And if they don't, that's on them, that's not on you. Yeah. That's a very, I mean, that's an important life lesson to learn that I learned maybe when I turned 30, like in my 30s.

Starting point is 00:11:14 So the fact that Jojo, I've always, you know, she's very controversial to people and polarizing. I always just have respected that no matter what her season is, she owns it or she can reflect on it. And she always grows from it. And I'm going, why can't people change? Why can't people like, you know, she's gone through so much in her own life. But when she sees you that clearly before you could accept her or say it out loud, I'm like,

Starting point is 00:11:39 was that confronting or validating? Confronting, especially at the time. Because I was in a position where I couldn't hear it. But also, I was obsessed with Jojo. So when she was telling me this, I was just like, this is my chance. Yes. It was scary, but I knew like, I don't know. There was a part of me that knew that, like, she was going to take care of me and she did.

Starting point is 00:12:00 That's so. And are you guys still close? Oh, we literally call at least three times a week. Oh, adorable. So her and his name's Chris, right? Chris, Christopher. We love Chris. Seems like an angel baby doll.

Starting point is 00:12:13 Yes. Yes. And they're just so sweet together. Yeah. I mean, I've gotten to know Jojo throughout a lot of her relationships. And I think there's something really telling when with Christopher, she's so present, especially with me. I feel like that's when you know you kind of found your person when she's not really questioning things. She doesn't have as much anxiety.

Starting point is 00:12:33 Like when I talk to her, it's just me and her and she's present. I know she's not worried about anything. And that's when I know, like, when you find something so real. and so honest. And yeah, I mean, I'm just so happy. I'm jealous of her. I'm really jealous. I'm like, this fine-ass man and you were a lesbian, I was like, I can't.

Starting point is 00:12:51 I can't with you. Like, I can't. But she locked in. She found her a UK six foot hunk of a man. Is he six feet? I mean, honestly, I don't know. I've never really met him in person. But like, he has to be because Jojo is tall.

Starting point is 00:13:05 Like, Jojo is tall. So I'm assuming he's also very tall. Yeah, that's a good point. I always pictured hers as being short until I met her. And then I was like, oh, you're tall. Oh, no, she's tall. Like, she's, yeah. Yeah.

Starting point is 00:13:13 Like, whenever we dance together, like, we're pretty close to the same height. She is a tall glass of water. Yeah, she is. Oh, that's amazing. Yeah, I also love watching her dance because, again, you can just tell she's like, she's just in the moment person. I guess it's kind of what you're saying. Like, when she's present, I feel like people around her feel it even if we're strangers

Starting point is 00:13:30 online. Yeah. You know what I mean? Yeah. Yeah. It's very interesting. And I also love that you celebrate your pride birthday every year now because it probably represents something like so emotional for you.

Starting point is 00:13:40 but also what a fun thing to do. Oh yeah. No tradition. Every single year, I'll do something different. Either it's like a concept video or something. I just have to do something publicly on social media where I am celebrating. That was my coming out. And I think it's really important also too, like a great yearly thing to remind everyone

Starting point is 00:14:01 about my journey and my roots and how I got there because I also think that's really important to share. Yeah, I agree. Totally. I love that you do that. And a lot of people listening, you know, maybe not necessarily. coming out in the same way as you, but a lot of people hide so many parts of themselves to the world because of either a way of thinking and growing up or shame.

Starting point is 00:14:20 Do you think the hardest part is external judgment or the internal one? I think the external judgment feeds into the internal judgment. I will also say that I recognize how looking fortunate I am to have the people that were around me at the time that I do come out. And I also recognize how many kids out there who do not have that support. system. So it's always such a tricky thing, especially when you're coming out because you want to come out in an environment that you feel like you will be accepted in. And I already had, I already had that. I had someone who was like a pop star super iconic diva who is like even if people don't accept you, I will and I'll

Starting point is 00:14:56 fight for you and I'll have your back. Not everyone has that. Well, again, like the hiding yourself, certain parts of yourself, I'm still trying to figure out some of that stuff as well. And growing up, You know, you talk about growing up in Utah and environments obviously shape so much of who we are and how we feel safe and show up in the world. But, you know, Utah is a different beast. Like, it's a different world over there compared to a lot of places in the States. And I want to think, like, I want to go back to little Ezra or maybe teen Ezra of like, what would you do to present a version of yourself to fit in? Like, what was something you would do that you look back on now and you go? I can't believe I did that.

Starting point is 00:15:33 Well, for one, I chemically straightened my hair. You did? Yes, because everyone in Utah, I feel like when I was growing up into Utah, the thing was straight hair. And then when I did it, the things was perms. So I chemically straightened my hair. And it also is for ballroom culture too, because if you see about when he slicks his hair, when you see Max, when he slips, like, he'll slick his hair straight. So I just felt like I was seeing that. And I was like, okay, I needed straight in my hair.

Starting point is 00:15:58 I was also very reserved. I'm also Scorpio. So I don't really like, I'm not really person that shows all their cards on the table. But as a kid, like, I was really, like, when I came to school, super shy, super reserved because I felt if I talked too much, if I was, if I presented too much of myself, they would discover that I am gay. And that's not what I wanted. So you knew just even at a young age that this is who you were.

Starting point is 00:16:21 You just had to, that's exhausting, Ezra. It is. It was pretty exhaust. Like, literally, I remember being a kid watching Titanic and seeing the booby scene and going, work. Work. Okay. And then I was like, wait, I feel like it should be turned on by that.

Starting point is 00:16:37 And then I was like, wait. And then high school musical came out and then Troy Bolton. And then that's right. And then Troy Bolton. Yeah. Oh my gosh. That's so valid though. Because you grew up dancing too.

Starting point is 00:16:48 Like you always were a dancer. That's such a you dancing too. Yes. So did dance for you feel like an escape or did it feel like just another place that you had to prove yourself? So it was, I feel like it was a good mix of both because dance quickly became the thing I latched on to because I, like I said, I wasn't the person that wanted to present all of my, all of who I am.

Starting point is 00:17:08 But dance was this form where I was able to express myself in ways that I literally couldn't. Because I couldn't speak up for myself. I couldn't talk to anyone. Like, I just felt so shy and so confined. But I would say at the studio I grew up at, they were very adamant about men dancing like men. So whenever I would dance a little feminine, they would call me on on it, which I don't think helped the case. But in hindsight, especially in what I do, it's important that I dance masculine too

Starting point is 00:17:34 because as a pro on the show, I'm mostly dancing with a female partner and so it's really important to embody a masculine figure, especially on the ballroom floor. Do I feel like at times it was like a little pushy? Yeah, but I look back at it and yes, it was traumatic to hear, but also it was really good for me to hear at the time.

Starting point is 00:17:52 So what is your take on when JoJo was on and they did two women and what would you think about two men being on the show? Would you like that or do you think... I would love it. Yeah. love it because I think when Jojo and Jenna were together, it was, it was when you can start mixing the rules. Well, that's what I was going to say.

Starting point is 00:18:09 It kind of feels like Jenna could take on some more masculine roles, which is fine. It's cool in the ballroom now, especially to break that mold because ballroom is so strict where like, I grew up doing hip hop. It was okay to be masculine, you know, in that energy. But yeah, okay, sorry, I cut you off. I got excited. To me, watching Jojo season was so refreshing because it was something different. Also, Jenna was such a perfect pro for that.

Starting point is 00:18:29 Totally. But just seeing them, like, switch up the connect. in the framing. I think even quite graphically, it's just so interesting to me. I always love like changing the rule books because you know ballroom Latin. It is, there is a technique. There is a rule. There are certain steps that you have to hit. But when you're allowed to switch rules, oh my gosh, you can do so much more with it. And that's just something that I'm so interested in. Wait, who would be your dream guest to have if they did a two male partners and you got to be with them.

Starting point is 00:19:02 And why is it Zach Efron? Why is it Zach Efron? No, I think it'd have to be someone from heated rivalry for sure. Oh my God. Either of them. Either of them. Because I just also feel like Hudson and Connor, I feel like both of them are very openly themselves people.

Starting point is 00:19:16 And I feel like that's the person that I would love to dance with if I had the opportunity to do that. Because it would have to take someone with a very big open mind, also very confident in who themselves to do something like that. and they both are perfect for it. Why did I not think of that? That is the most genius answer for that question. Did Zach Efron?

Starting point is 00:19:36 Because I'm a basic bitch who liked high school musical. Look, I don't want to take Dylan's brother, but if I have to, then I will. Right. The whole freaking Dylan, Dylan is like this, I've never, like, even just meeting him for a brief moment, he felt like a light in the world. Yeah, he's very nice. He is so nice. So nice, but he did rivalry.

Starting point is 00:19:57 They need to do that. man, they better be asking about that because that would be iconic. Oh, no, we're getting on it. We'll start a petition. We'll start manifesting. We'll start a little, which circles, like, let's go. I will do some witchy shit to make that happen. Also, it's like such a Canadian, like, I was just talking with my last guest about she was Canadian.

Starting point is 00:20:16 And we were like, Canada's just having such a moment in the Olympics with heated rivalry and people wanting to move here. And I'm like, that would be so great to have one of them. It's Canada's year. Come on, Canada. Give it to us. I mean, I feel like it's always our year, but that's because I am Canadian. So I just feel like, okay, I realized this in a big way while I was stuck in Canada. I feel like one of the most frustrating things about working out is putting in the effort and wondering, is this actually doing anything?

Starting point is 00:20:42 Because I was like, trying to find my own workouts. I was, you know, going to a hotel gym. But that is one of the reasons I love Tonal. Tonal is basically a full strength training system and personal trainer built into your wall, literally your wall. It gives you the convenience of a full gym at home, but with the guidance that actually helps you get stronger. Now, what's really cool is that tonal tracks your progress with every single workout. So after a quick assessment, it sets the right weight for each move and then automatically adjusts in one pound increments as you get stronger. So you're always challenged, but never guessing.

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Starting point is 00:21:38 $200 off your tonal purchase with promo code Vine. That's tonal.com and use promo code Vine for $200 off your purchase. Tonal.com promo code Vine for $200 off. I feel like people love hearing behind the scenes of Dancing with the Starsuff or just anything. with the stars is so big and I want to know how you even got the job of becoming a pro because I don't even know the answer to this if there's like a formal audition process I'm sure obviously but like are you quietly being evaluated on like your social media and YouTube dance videos or how did you get the offer? I definitely feel like when I got so you think you can dance

Starting point is 00:22:20 that was like my first big like that was like my first big moment. I think when that happened I had the show's attention. So from when I got so you think I was having like meetings with them like once a year. But it wasn't until my team actually reached out to them, my management at the time. And they're like, are they looking for any dances? And they're like, actually, we are. But because it was during the pandemic, I, everything was through Zoom. So I was zooming with these people. I was sending them footage of me dancing, of me teaching other people how to dance. And a part of me, feel like I catfish them a little bit because when you meet, when you're like, right now, you probably don't think I'm six foot, right? These, but I was telling these people,

Starting point is 00:22:57 I'm six foot. And they're like every single meeting I was having. They're like, are you sure you're sick? I'm like, I'm six foot. Like, I am six foot. But height has had a lot to do with how I booked, how I booked dancing with the starts to begin with. But I remember when I first met them, they're like, oh, yeah, you're actually six foot.

Starting point is 00:23:13 I'm like, could you imagine if I wasn't? You're like, show up five to. Yeah, that's crazy. Well, they'd probably just fire you immediately because height is such a thing in the ballroom. I never thought about it until obviously I was on the show. And that's how they think about certain partnering. But then I look at Daniela and the partners she's got, and I'm like, she is just a tiny peanut.

Starting point is 00:23:30 And they keep putting her with these big tall men. Yeah. I mean, I think the fact that it's funny, but also the fact that she makes it work is the fact that it'll always happen to her. Well, such a testament to her just like creativity, her choreography, the way her brain and body work is sick. Yeah, she's really cool. Sickening. She is. She's insane.

Starting point is 00:23:50 She's another like another level for sure. When they say things on social media like Oval, take in the Ferrari. for a spin. I'm like, that is what she is. She is a Ferrari in the dance world. Do you know what's funny, though? They all are, but. I mentioned that to her. And I was like, I would love to do TikTok with you where it's like something around the fact that you're the Ferrari. Her ass is so humble. She was like, I don't know. Like, I don't know if I can put myself

Starting point is 00:24:12 out there like that. And I'm just like, girl. I know. I know. If you got it, on it, I'm like, I can't believe that I'm telling you this, but I'm like, you are a Ferrari. Like, you are. It's just a fact. It's so funny because I think of people, like, I've mentioned this on the podcast. I've met Carrie Underwood before and she's very shy and she's very reserved. And on stage, you would never think that because she's got this big, bold personality. And I feel like watching Danielle a dance, you think, God, she's got to be the most confident person in the room.

Starting point is 00:24:39 She's got to be so, like, loud and bold. And she's just so sweet and shy and humble. And it's so contradicting and amazing at the same time. Yeah, it makes you love her more. I like love people like that who are just like, who have this persona or she's like a badass on stage. she freaking owns it. But then she's the sweetest person ever.

Starting point is 00:24:58 And you're just like, I love people like that so much. I know. I know. I obviously need to talk to you about people like Anna Delvey also because I know you're probably like so sick of talking about it. No, I love talking about this queen. I love talking about her. I also call her a queen because I just, there's something so mysterious about her, but also

Starting point is 00:25:18 that's your first season as a pro. You get the pro and then you have a season with Anna Delvey. Like, what was your honest reaction when you got her as a partner? Were you like, who is that? Or were you like, oh, shit? I was gagged. I feel like if anyone were to take that call well, it would be a gay man. And I think casting him what they were doing.

Starting point is 00:25:37 They're like, okay, we have this new pro. He's very openly gay. He's super nice, really easy to work. We know exactly what to do with him. And I remember when I got the call with Dina, she was like, your job is to become her best friend. And I said, girl, you already know. she's going to be my best friend. Like, you know, she already is my best friend.

Starting point is 00:25:58 But I was such a big, I didn't watch the show necessarily, um, Invencing Anna. But I just saw all the clips of her on TikTok, of her in court in like high fashion of the scenes of her on Inventing Anna. I was like, wait, this girl is fierce. Like, I love people like that. So the fact that she was my first partner in my eyes is pretty iconic. Like, it really was such an iconic first partner for me. It really was. And the way that you rolled with the punches of it and, you know, the turn.

Starting point is 00:26:24 I hate the saying lemon into lemonade, but that's kind of what you did because people were so judgmental of her. And like, I laughed so hard when they bejewed her ankle bracelet. I was like, that is, again, iconic is the word that always keeps coming up. And it was amazing. But I feel like you handled it. One, you're a professional. So you were a professional in that scene. But two, you did make her comfortable and turn it into a friendship.

Starting point is 00:26:47 And then three, you turned it into a funny tattoo and it's going to be a memory forever. And it was your first season. You had fun with it. No, I definitely feel like that first season taught me so much just about what it means to be a pro on the show. And with Anna, it was a lot of cards that were against me. Like, I was giving it, like, especially when it comes to the show, I was, I knew I was like, okay, we're probably not going to win. Like, that's okay. But I just knew, like, I have an opportunity with someone who's never danced before.

Starting point is 00:27:14 And I always feel like, as you're a pro on the show, like, your job is to give them the best experience ever. But also, like, kind of changed their life through dance. And so I was like, okay, let's do this with Anna. Like, I can definitely do this with her. And like, during our time together, she was, you know, she was a little difficult in rehearsal. But when she came back for the finale, she embraced the whole thing. She embraced everyone, the whole environment. And that just made me feel like I did my job because she enjoyed being there.

Starting point is 00:27:42 And what I learned a lot from being around her is she's not in a lot of spaces where she does feel comfortable enough to be herself. I definitely feel like when she is her inventing Anna's self, it's, you know, it's a, it's a boundary. It's a front that she puts up. But when she came back, I was like, I just remember just having the best time with her. That's such a good point. Like when you said I did my job, I went that part. That is, it's so important for somebody to, like, because to me, dance is such a form of communication and kind of what you said, like, you went through a hard time.

Starting point is 00:28:15 Dance was like this place where you tried to like go be yourself. And you couldn't communicate to people how you were actually feeling. But dance was that part of you for an escape. And I feel like you did that for her, which is full circle. Yeah. Yeah. It was great. I do miss her a lot.

Starting point is 00:28:30 Even though she didn't follow me, I do miss her a lot. She unfollowed you? Yes. Okay. And this is my fault. This is my fault. I made a joke with Jordan, my partner this season, that I actually had a shot this year. And that was like the, that's what it was in.

Starting point is 00:28:48 She was very upset about that. And I just sent her a message just telling her like, look, that post is a gag. Our season was a gag. And I just want you to know that that post does not reflect how I feel about you or my experience with you. It just was a joke. But yeah, I honestly, I feel like we will reconnect at some point. I don't think it's any time soon. But I look forward to it because I really do miss her.

Starting point is 00:29:11 This is reminding me of me and Alan. Oh, my gosh. It's the exact thing. I said something as a joke. on my podcast and then somebody in the media world picked it up and totally made it look like something it wasn't. And then people were mean to him because of what I said that I felt so terrible. And I knew I just had to give it time. And then we reconnected and we danced together a few weeks ago. And we were just back. It was the same way. Oh my gosh. Right. At his competition.

Starting point is 00:29:38 Yeah. Oh, that makes me so happy. I mean, that's what I love about, I even like all the pros. What's really nice is that they've been a part of this show for so long. Like, whenever it comes to things like that they handle it so well and as you can imagine when we're on tour like it we run into those issues with each other but i will say without a doubt like every single time that either i get snappy or someone gets snappy with me will always have that adult conversation after and we always i feel like it makes us stronger like our relationships together stronger um so it makes me happy that i mean that you guys are reconnected it's such a family vibe you know it's it's exactly the same as fighting with family they're always going to be family it's always going to come back it might

Starting point is 00:30:17 take longer. It might be quick. It's just like one of those. It's, it's, it's, it's you're bonded forever through it and you're a family and you get through it. I've seen the atmosphere like on tour. There's bickering that happens on stage. There's stuff. But it's so fast and over with and everybody speaks their mind. And then they collaborate in the end. Like everybody is collaborating and taking each other's advice and making up for it. And then you go out and dance and you forget about it. And you laugh and you're smiling on stage. And do you guys play games on stage? We haven't yet. Okay. Okay. I know. It starts to happen towards. the end.

Starting point is 00:30:48 Like, did you do the animal game? Yes. Okay, we did that a couple of times last year. Explain to people what the animal game is because I'm blanking on it. Something about saying you make the noises. Yes. So the animal game is when we are on stage. And mind you, these are very subtle things.

Starting point is 00:31:03 Like, if we ever do it, you will never know. You will never know, but we do it. Everyone will get an animal, but you're paired with someone else, but you don't know who that other animal is. Like, you don't know who else is. If I'm a sheep, you don't know who else is a sheep. So when you're on stage and you're dancing, you're going to do it. with someone, you're going to have to make that sound. So if I'm, if I'm a sheep and I'm dancing with

Starting point is 00:31:21 Danny, I'll just go, bah, like, just like randomly. And then she'll go like, moo. And then that's when I know. She's not your match. She's not a match. But that's one of the games that we do. It's so fun. It's, I couldn't do it because I am wait. Dancing ballroom does not come naturally to my body. So I'm constantly thinking about what's next in the move and the counts. So I could never, I would try so hard. I'd be like, I want to be a part of the game. And then I'd completely forget. But towards the and we would do so we'd have like a penny we'd pass around on stage or again people would never and then one time at the end of uh it was like the closing number and it was like one of the last shows one time daniela just didn't go out for her part so ardom was stuck without a partner and so we

Starting point is 00:32:02 watched him struggle by himself those are the bad i know we haven't done that yet but i look forward to that god i feel like because last year was my first my first full tour i feel like they pulled their pranks on me because it was my first time was kind of like my initiation. Yeah. And yeah, no, those jokes, they're so funny. They're so funny. But also, they change up the show a lot. So it's more refreshing for us.

Starting point is 00:32:27 It is. It's so, how did they prank you? I think one of the times was this balloon and we did get in trouble for this. We danced with these balloons. And then for some reason, I think it was, I can't remember who it was. But they tied my balloons. So it was like half my size. So when it came on on stage, I'm like dancing with a balloon that's like,

Starting point is 00:32:45 to my hip level. And I'm like bending down and I'm like this. And they're like, Ezra, you could have just pulled on it and it would have been released. I'm like, I don't know. Like, I don't. Like, I'm a person that doesn't do well with like when things switch up like that. But I just remember just being like, what the hell? And then I just, I really like ran with it.

Starting point is 00:32:59 And it was so fun. I love that shit. I love a prank so much. God, that makes me giggle. And what's something that surprised you? Because obviously this was your second year being a pro. What does surprise you the most about being a pro that people wouldn't know? How much you do.

Starting point is 00:33:11 Yes. The amount of hats you have to wear. Like, oh my gosh. Because like name three of them. You have to be a choreographer, basically a babysitter and like therapist. And then 20 other things. 20 other things. And like we're in charge of like music selection.

Starting point is 00:33:27 They have to listen to us about wardrobe because really what we are we're a liaison to our celebrity. And they don't understand this show at all. So it's our job to explain these things to them. And also like they don't understand like costumes. So if like Anna didn't like a costume, I would say, okay, make that look more expensive. Like I know like she would love it so much more if it was more expensive. So there's also like that producer aspect of it too where we have to like really understand this person and catered war job, lighting, music, storyline, coiography.

Starting point is 00:33:59 Storyline's a big one. Yeah, storyline is huge. But yeah. Especially for someone like Anna, but then you don't get to tell the full story. And then it's probably sad because you probably planned out so much stuff that didn't get to happen. Oh my gosh. Yeah. I was excited for that.

Starting point is 00:34:13 Like a jail cell block tango moment or what? It was honestly, I didn't want to do that because it was overused. But I wanted to be criminal by Britney Spears so bad. Just like, oh my God. So bad. I just wanted to do it so bad. Oh God, you should still do it just for Instagram. When you guys have your comeback, when you like reconnect and reconnect, you can do that just for.

Starting point is 00:34:34 That will be the TikTok audio. Yes. Yes. Use. Oh, my God. See, your creative juices are flowing. And it would be like, you know, how Whitney and. Mark got to have their social media moment,

Starting point is 00:34:45 then you guys make a comeback and you do criminal Britney Spears. Oh, I already see it. I have to do it now. I have to do it. The next season with Jordan obviously changes everything. You're not just surviving the season. You're absolutely thriving. You make it all the way to the finale.

Starting point is 00:35:00 Your freestyle gets called one of the best in decades, which I totally agree. I was dying watching that freestyle. I didn't see it coming. And I was like, I watched it. again and again and again and again and again. But did that season feel just different for you, like from the get-go? Oh, completely.

Starting point is 00:35:19 I also feel like I had someone who is a star. Like Jordan is incredible. She was very fast up learning. She was very eager to work and to learn. And so I think the biggest thing that really helped me a lot was her giving me the confidence and strength, even though I am a newer pro, to really trust in everything that I did. And even when I doubted myself, she'd be like, Ezi, like, you know, whatever you do,

Starting point is 00:35:44 I'm a hundred percent behind and we're going to make it work no matter what. And I feel like just having, I feel like you work different when the people around you are just fully, like, supporting you. And I think that's exactly what I needed to get through that season. And if it wasn't for that, if it wasn't for that exchange that we had together, like me being new or this, but her fully, like, understanding and, like,

Starting point is 00:36:02 and trusting and, like, allowing a space for me to grow as well, I don't think I would have had as good as a season as I did. No, because I've heard. you know, this, the show has been on for how many seasons are we at now? We're about to hit 35. That's crazy. 35 seasons. I have heard nightmare stories about who people get partnered with, not supportive.

Starting point is 00:36:23 They don't show up the way that they're supposed to. They're hard to work with. Like, it must be so amazing to have someone like Jordan who also is so used to performing under pressure. Yes. Obviously, like a different kind of vulnerability. But what was the dynamic like early on? Was it that?

Starting point is 00:36:40 Like she already knew the pressure of performing and she was helping you or were you helping each other probably? I don't think she understood the amount of pressure that it means to be on the show because like before week one she was like, oh no, we got this. Like we're confident. The first thing she said to me after we had her first heart to heart after we first met, she was like, Ezra, we're going to have so much fun. And I just knew that we would. Like I just knew without Mattis. Oh, wait, no, no. This is going to be so much fun.

Starting point is 00:37:06 But after that first week, oh, no, no, no. Like she felt that pressure a little bit. But she's an Olympian and she had that mindset where like if I got in my head, she was sit down and talk to me and I was like, oh my gosh, like you're so right. And it was so beneficial when it came to show days because she knew exactly what she needed to do to get in the mindset in order for her to deliver. And all she had to do is vocalize that to me. Olympian gymnasts are a different breed of beasts.

Starting point is 00:37:34 Like even just talking to Sean Johnson, who was on Dancing with the Stars, She was also on the All-Star season. She also did special forces. And just like the mental gymnastics that they have to go through to stay, you know, strong and just what they've gone through in their life with their bodies and their mind. And it does remind me of dancing, but I think on a whole other level. I don't think people also realize how much trust is required between a pro and a partner. Did you two have that from the get-go or did you have to build the trust?

Starting point is 00:38:04 No, we had that from the get-go. That's nice. Yeah. And I definitely feel like our week one wasn't great. Like our week one, I got lower scores than I did with Anna. Like we, we did not start off on the right foot. And so I feel like that made me pull up because I knew I had someone who was very like, who very much was eager about the process and who wanted to make it to the end. And I had to pull up. And even in that whole week, like, she never even doubted me. And I, and I was going into rehearsal being like, okay, I feel like she's going to doubt like what I have planned for this week. But like, as she was the most consistent she ever was. So it really helps. That's, yeah. She seems like, I've just, I loved watching you guys together. The dynamic was absolutely perfect.

Starting point is 00:38:47 I, you did such a good job with all the choreography and she obviously crushed it. And I really loved it. And then you guys got matching tattoos, which is, again, it's just on brand for you now to do the tattoo thing. Look at that. Every year. Every year, girl. It's such a good tattoo. I love it.

Starting point is 00:39:03 But wait, were people like spreading rumors about you too? Oh, you know me. You know, you know, in the gossip. You started the rumor, didn't you? Oh, of course I did. Well, I don't even know how it happened. No, it wasn't us. It was just like, okay, this is how it started.

Starting point is 00:39:18 We were in a press line for GMA, like, first ever press line that we had to go through. And a guy asked if we were like an item, if we were interested in each other. And I was like, literally, I was like, girl, I'm gay. Like, uh, like, also like, have you ever seen this shit before? Like, I'm very like, just watch me and just watch me. You don't know. Yeah. We're not compatible.

Starting point is 00:39:36 For some reason, you know how like the Facebook ads and the Facebook news outlets, like all those like sketchy stuff. They just kept like, okay, they're a couple. Oh, they're starting to date. And I'm just like, where are they getting this from? So I don't know what it was. I think there was one particular that said that we secretly got married and it's a and it's affecting like her gymnastics, her gymnastics performance. And I was like, oh, no, we have to lean into this. Oh, this is getting out of hand.

Starting point is 00:40:03 And so always lean in. I was talking to her. I was like, hey, we have to get a tattooed. together and she's like, can we have to get a matching tattoo? So we're already talking about it. And so when we were getting our tattoo, was like, should we f*** the internet? And she was like, let's go. And so we got just Mary tattooed on our, on our hands.

Starting point is 00:40:17 And literally, you know it picked up when Us Weekly was like, they just got just married tattoos and we completely like punked the internet. And that was the best ever. That was the best sharing on top of my season. It was so great. It's just so funny. I mean, there's always so many rumors on that show. Like, it doesn't even surprise me that.

Starting point is 00:40:36 some guy who clearly doesn't know what's going on asked with that, but I feel like chemistry can be in dance and not offline. And people don't understand that chemistry in dance can mean something else and everyone that, I mean, which is part of the fun of watching because the rumors that swirl are just so, sometimes they're true. Sometimes they're so far fetch. But I can't imagine because, well, Jenna and Val have just been through it for so long. And like, they're so strong and good about it that it doesn't like.

Starting point is 00:41:03 They're locked in. They're so locked in. And like, I admire their relationship so much because I can't even imagine the rumors that swirl. But like, it's, it's so wild to me what I see online and when I know the truth or when something's like a little bit on. And I'm like, Glebb and Brooks, like obviously from the gate go, I'm like, it's a glub. Like, if he's single, like he is down to mingle with anyone. He's just such a flirt by nature. But it's just so fun to watch at the same time.

Starting point is 00:41:27 Like literally he'll talk to me. I'm like blushing. And I'm like, I'm like, I know. I think he like, and I'm like obviously not. He makes everybody to have a chance. Yeah, he's really good at that. He's a smooth talker for sure. He's so good at it.

Starting point is 00:41:41 He's so smooth. But what you are really good at is your TikTok lives. You have built a massive online fan base, which is so fun. And hosting TikToks for Dance with the Stars. So I love that they're adding this, contributing to millions of votes and becoming one of the most recognizable personalities on the show, in my opinion. Oh, thank you. Do you feel pressure to be on all the time now when, like,

Starting point is 00:42:06 even if you meet people in your life. Or is that just, I feel like that's also kind of who you are. You're just, you're on kind of guy. Yeah, I do. But the thing is,

Starting point is 00:42:13 I really do enjoy meeting people that watch the show. I really do enjoy meeting people like that. But I mean, if it's like a 7 a.m. Airplane, I'm like, I'm not giving the best energy, rightfully so,

Starting point is 00:42:24 like no one else is the same. But it's very, like, tricky, like, going out in public now. Definitely, like, I feel like in L.A. People are so used to seeing,

Starting point is 00:42:32 like, reality TV stars. Like, I don't feel like I get recognized or stop as much when I'm in L.A. But usually when we're on tour and we're going out to city and the city and we're stopping and meeting these people, I think it's a really cool way to get to know like the different types of people in the different areas. So many different types. And I am so fascinated by it. Val's very good at it too. Like I feel like when we're in the city, he's just like,

Starting point is 00:42:51 I'm going to go walk around. I'm like, girl, we're in Wichita. I'm like, wait, what? Like, you're going to walk. Okay. Okay. Period. I'm like, okay, you better. But he'll always come back with like the most interesting stories and like he's met the most interesting personalities. is and it really inspires me to do the same too and just to be able to connect um with the fans of the show well it's it is such a uh wide variety of fans like especially now that the tic talk aspect has been added in you being a pro like we you're really touching on so many different age groups and different kinds of people now which is so nice to see because i think it really was kind of like similar to bachelor back in my day was like very the bible belt of america where now it's such a range from

Starting point is 00:43:33 A to Z of people that watch the show, which I love to see. Oh, me too. It's, I think that's what makes me so happy because I definitely feel like dancing with the stars perfectly, like the people who are watching up perfectly encompasses our nation and like the people who are in our country. And I think it's really cool, especially when we travel. And every single show we have is sold out. So you know that when we're in Wichita or when we're in Florida, you know that those people

Starting point is 00:43:59 are watching because we're going and they're loud and they're engaged during the show. So it's really cool to see that. Okay, we all know this feeling when your to-do list is so long. You don't even know where to start. Oh, I feel like that right now, actually. Work appointments, catching up with friends, remembering to drink enough water. Life is nonstop. And if you throw apartment hunting into the mix, well, forget about it. Just forget about it. But that is where Apartments.com can come in handy. They take the stress out of finding your next home so you can actually enjoy the process instead of dreading it. So if you want to see if a place is a good fit, you can take a 3D virtual tour and get a real feel for the the space without even having to leave your couch. And once you find a place you love, you can schedule a

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Starting point is 00:45:15 And I can't believe, like, just the clips that you guys make go viral is so funny. What is happening with the everyone kissing you? What is the, what is the scoop on everyone kissing you? Where did this start? What is happening? So it happened when Jenna kissed me. Yeah. I don't know where it came from.

Starting point is 00:45:30 I remember she was like, oh, my gosh, we're so close to kissing one time we did actually kiss. And then I think it was a show. I can't remember what show it was. But I can't remember the show it was. But I was just like. are we kissing today? And then we did.

Starting point is 00:45:40 And it was just like so funny. And then this is, this shows Val's true character. I go to Val, I said Val, I'm starting to get bored with this number. When you walk across the stage, like,

Starting point is 00:45:50 I really need you to do something that's gonna like, just like wake me up. That's gonna like help spruce it up. And of course, his ass walks across the stage, grabs my face and we lock lips. And I am freaking out.

Starting point is 00:46:02 And then I go back to Jenna and she's like, did he kiss you? And then Emma's like, do you kiss you? I'm like, yes. I don't think anyone believe that happened. I blanked that whole number and if you watch it back, my face is like,

Starting point is 00:46:12 I couldn't believe it actually happened. Um, and then Emma kissed me after that too. But I think the ongoing joke is that I'm collecting kisses like infinity stones and I have to be able to kiss the whole cast on stage by the end of tour or else I did not accomplish this tour. Another fun game. Yes. Oh, yeah. Very achievable. Very achievable. Yeah. So I was like, what is happening? I love it and I want to be a part of it. Okay. Which brings me to my final moment of the podcast, which is superlative. because you could plead the fifth, but that would be really boring. Oh, no, you know, I'm going to tell you.

Starting point is 00:46:43 Okay. I want to know, like, all the most likely two moments. Like, okay, who is on the tour bus? Maybe it's on your bus. Maybe it's another one. Who's the messiest? I'm saying Jeff, but Allen. Alan because of Jeff.

Starting point is 00:46:56 Oh, because of Jeff. Okay. Yeah, but that's his dog for anyone who doesn't know. That's his excuse. He's like, it's because of Jeff. I'm like, yep, okay. Totally. That's, but you're not on the Jeff bus, so, which sad, but I would say under

Starting point is 00:47:08 him, I would be next because I am not. Really? He's like, yeah, he'll clock me. He goes, for a gay man, you're really messy. I'm like, I know. Like, I'm actually really messy. Oh, that's hilarious. Okay, who's most likely to cry in rehearsal? I would say Emma, because she's very empathetic. Like, if anyone's

Starting point is 00:47:24 feeling down, she'll put it on herself to fill down too. Yes. So I feel like in that sense, like she would be, I would say though, it's hard to answer that because no one's cried during rehearsal yet. So, I was thinking that too. I'm like, everybody's so just like tough and strong on that show. And I'm like, they could be crying, but I was thinking of Emma because I'm like, it doesn't

Starting point is 00:47:42 need to be like, oh, there being a cry baby. It's like she cries because she feels. Yes. Or even like we have a dance together where we do somewhere over the rainbow and like we have where we're always just like lock eyes and like some days we're just really joyous and we're emotional and she's crying or it's like I'm crying and then because she's crying and I'm crying. Like I just feel like in that sense like she would be the crier of the group.

Starting point is 00:48:04 Yeah. See, that's very fair. Okay. Who's the most competitive? Oh, who isn't? I know what? I think we're all competitive. I think we're all evenly on the same playing field.

Starting point is 00:48:16 I will say, oh, I don't know who's the most, though, because they're all competitive in their own way. I know. Danny is weirdly competitive. Like, Danny locks in. Like, she locks in. Alan's really competitive. Brandon can be really competitive.

Starting point is 00:48:29 Pasha can be competitive. But, like, when he, like, when he gets, like, mad and he gets competitive, like, you'll know. Like, and he'll lock in. he will do the best performance for you ever if he ever gets competitive. I'm, I would say I'm up there too. I am very competitive even though it's very shocking in people. I grew up at ComKit.

Starting point is 00:48:49 Of course, I'm competitive. Jenna's competitive. Val, I would say it's pretty competitive. But he's also like, I've been this. I've been doing this. Like it doesn't faze me as much. But we're all pretty, we're all pretty competitive. That's why I asked because I'm like, I think everyone is,

Starting point is 00:49:02 but I wondered who you would say is the most. That's funny, though. Who is most likely to forget the choreography? Me. Really? Oh, yeah, you had a moment. Yes. It would be me.

Starting point is 00:49:13 No, yeah, openly, I do mess up a lot. And I am like, I have a hard time matching everyone. So there are dance captain Britt. She's always just like on me. She's like, you keep doing this. And I'm like, I'm so sorry. And then I'll kind of like joke with her being like, let's see if I do today. We're like, let's see if I forget today.

Starting point is 00:49:31 And she'll be like, as? I'm like, I'm sorry. I'm really trying. but it is me. I do have a lot of brain parts on stage. I can't believe, like, of my whole season, I thought for sure I would screw up and forget. That was my biggest fear, and I never did. But I feel like that.

Starting point is 00:49:44 Oh, good for you. You're more consistent than me. 100%. I don't know about that. But who is the best dressed off camera? Val, he is dripping. Yes. He's got style.

Starting point is 00:49:56 Like, he'll, his, like, day she was like a loafer, like a nice loafer. And, like, he has, he's always dressed nice. He's his cologne. He's always presentable nights. He's always wearing. And you know this on tour. Every single day he's wearing new clothes. Really?

Starting point is 00:50:10 Yes. Like he has a new, like not like a new outfit, but like he'll have like clean clothes that he'll wear every single day. Because on tour like will notoriously wear the same shit like for three days in a row. I do that not even on tour. Just like. Same. Same. Yeah.

Starting point is 00:50:26 I'm glad that you're on the same boat there. But Val's the most dripped. Okay. Secretly, who is the funniest? Brandon. He's so funny. He is so funny. And I'll clock Allen because I'll be pissed.

Starting point is 00:50:39 I didn't say Alan. Alan is just funny all the time. But Brandon is consistent. Like when he says a joke, we all laugh. Like I feel like Alan would just say things just to say things and be funny. Brandon is just. Brandon is smart funny. Like the stuff, he's quick.

Starting point is 00:50:55 Like when it comes out, it is funny. He's very funny. Do you know who else is up there too? Who? Pasha. Pasha is so funny Pasha is so funny Yes I really got to know Pasha on tour

Starting point is 00:51:07 And he was so funny Yeah I agree I'm like girl you're not you're not like this on camera I'm like where is this coming from But he's the secret funny one That's yeah that's totally okay Besides you Future Mirabal winner energy

Starting point is 00:51:21 I will say this it's due time Brit Stewart She needs a mirror ball And she is so incredible Especially in this tour I just watch her backstage And I'm just so in awe of like her ability to dance, but like her patience, her teaching ability, her choreography, she has everything it takes to, um, to win. I just really want to see happen so bad. Her and Pasha. I want to see them

Starting point is 00:51:43 both win so bad. I agree. Britt really is just like the most well-rounded. I just, I am, I too was in awe of her so many times. I love watching her dance. I love watching everybody dance. There's really not one person I wouldn't just watch for 24 hours a day dance. It's just like you guys are all so talented. There's the reason why you're like on the show. There's a reason. Everybody has great, wonderful personalities. And I just,

Starting point is 00:52:06 I loved our conversation today. I love conversations that are just real and honest. And yes, you're incredibly talented. And yes, you're entertaining. And yes, you're fun to watch.

Starting point is 00:52:15 But the real story is like, always for people to just own who they are and become themselves. And obviously, that's what you're doing. That's what you've done. Thank you. You're so sweet. I just love you.

Starting point is 00:52:26 I just think like so many people listening will see parts of themselves, you know, that in the journey, whether it's finding confidence or finding belonging or just like choosing themselves, I guess. I feel like you're such a good role model for that. And I just thank you for being here. I also think I'm very lucky that I went on tour with Jojo, but like I wish we toured together. Because I feel like we would have been best.

Starting point is 00:52:48 I mean, we are best friends. But I definitely feel like we would have had a great time. I actually said something to Alan when I was with him. I said, I feel like me and Ezra would be best friends. Yes. He probably. He's like, no, he's. He said, I like Ezra.

Starting point is 00:53:03 I like him a lot is what he said. He better. He better say that. He did. He did. He did say that. And I just, yeah, I feel like we vibe. And we'll have to, I'll come find you guys on a tour and tell everybody where they can find you and where they can find dates for the tour.

Starting point is 00:53:18 Yeah. Okay. So my socials are my Instagram's Ezra. Dot Sosa. My TikTok is Ezra Sosa. Besides that, I don't care about the other socials because I don't even use them. We're currently on tour. Dancing with the Stars Tour Live.com, I believe it is.

Starting point is 00:53:31 But I don't know. Just look it up. And we're also doing Dancing with the StarsCon, which is the first time wherever. Are you doing that? No, but tell everybody about that. I'm so excited about it because, like,

Starting point is 00:53:43 Jojo's going to be there. So she's going to be there. There's a lot of people I personally just love so much and that I'll be able to get to share the stage with. And I just really hope that everyone's there because it's going to be really fun and magical. And it's going to be a show, a TV show? It's not a TV show, but

Starting point is 00:53:58 We're doing a live performance. So this will be like, okay, okay, okay. This will be like a one off. I think I'm doing a dance with Jojo. I think Jojo's doing it with Jenna. Jenna's doing dances with her partner. So if you were,

Starting point is 00:54:07 if you're nostalgic dancing with the stars fan and you just, we're doing the, we're like bringing it back and we're literally transporting you into the ballroom. They're showing us like the, they're showing us like the graphics of what our, our sets going to look like for the performance part. It's going to be insane. It's going to be really cool.

Starting point is 00:54:25 Oh, that's so exciting. So when is that happening? Okay. So it's July 3. 31st through August 2nd. And you must be there. Amazing. I will.

Starting point is 00:54:32 Well, I'm a little like sad because I wasn't invited, but I'm going to show up anyways. They are. So they haven't rolled out all the celebrities yet. Well, so. It's also hard to because Hardham isn't there anymore. So and he was my partner. I feel like it's like, yeah. What are you talking about?

Starting point is 00:54:46 Yeah, I want to dance with you. I want to dance with you. Ask Howard. I learned in, I learned in three hours a minute and a half of a Viennese waltz and nailed it that night. I'm not surprised. I'm not surprised. It was so fun. So I would love to dance with you.

Starting point is 00:55:01 And I, no matter what, will come support. I'll teach you one of the dances I do with Anna. And we will have a, we will show them up. Or maybe we could do criminal and it could be the moment that you never had. Yes. And then maybe grand reveal and she shows up in the ballroom for the first time in two years. And she pushes me out of the way and then you guys to take it home. I love it.

Starting point is 00:55:20 Oh, my God. I love it. Thank you so much. Tell everybody on a tour that I say hello and that I miss everyone and I love everyone so much. Hey guys, it's your friend Michelle Collins, and I'm here to invite you to listen to The Michelle Collins Show. Yes, that's my show, unfiltered, unscripted, unhinged, and covers pretty much everything you're going to want to care about. It's funny, it's fearless. It could go off the rails at any moment and often does. So follow, rate, and review the Michelle Collins Show wherever you get your podcasts. And let's spiral together. Pluto TV has thousands of free movies and TV shows. You swear. If I'm lying, I'm down. This is the mindset Free

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