Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond

Susanna Hoffs

Oct 13, 2026 · 43m

Summary

Susanna Hoffs discusses her new album *The List*, which explores themes of loneliness and life transitions through personal stories shared during writing sessions. She reflects on her novel, a memorable encounter with Bob Weir, and the creative process of turning her book into a musical with Edie Brickell. The episode also highlights collaborations with Rufus Wainwright and the influence of classic songwriting on her new work.

Topics discussed

Introduction and ChatGPT Work ad Before the Moment podcast promo Airbnb Co-Host Network ad Welcome and introduction of Susanna Hoffs The 'list' of ex-partners and its origin The Beatles influence on The Bangles Discussion on the song 'None of Them Were You' Themes of loneliness and human nature Writing novels vs. song lyrics Incorporating Prince and personal stories into the book Returning to songwriting after writing a book Before the Moment podcast promo ChatGPT Work ad Chase Business Checking ad Songwriting sessions and Sue's life perspective Recording in Sue's home and personal stories Melody writing and childhood influences The singular focus of listening to music Writing songs to be memorable and folk song roots Advice on hooks and the aim of the album The process of creating the album Duet with Jay's movie and The Turtles The song 'Better With You' and loneliness Vocal dynamics and previous collaborations Country music influences and vocal ranges Researching song titles and themes Acceptance of life's imperfections Psychoanalytical approach to songwriting Before the Moment podcast promo ChatGPT Work ad Chase Business Checking ad Ghosts in the record and Casablanca The Bob Weir story and Casablanca connection Meeting the Grateful Dead in New Orleans Invitation to sing with the Grateful Dead Performing with the Grateful Dead Bob Weir's favorite story Casablanca tie-in and separate paths The song 'This Island' and loneliness Feeling alone in a relationship Empty nest and melancholy Kids growing up and the empty house Dissonance in music and life Statistic on time spent with children Daughter dating sons and the song 'Girl' Writing a Burt Bacharach style song The song 'What Are Wings For' Turning the book into a musical Edie Brickell's songwriting process Plan for the musical adaptation Redemption arc in the musical Outro and Pushkin Plus subscription Before the Moment podcast promo Whoop ad and Malcolm Gladwell book promo
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