Janelle Monáe: We Should Thank Our Exes (FBF)
Summary
Alex Cooper sits down with Janelle Monáe to discuss her new album, *The Age of Pleasure*, which she describes as a soundtrack to a lifestyle born from healing trauma. Monáe opens up about overcoming abandonment issues stemming from her father’s addiction and how therapy helped her reframe past relationships. The conversation also covers her views on privacy, the importance of communication in polyamorous dynamics, and challenging societal norms around love and identity.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Sour Patch Kids, Stouffer's, T-Mobile
Guest intro and vacation stories (Jamaica)
Childhood in Kansas and friend group dynamics
New album 'Age of Pleasure' and creative process
Overcoming rejection and self-worth in art
Healing from father's addiction and abandonment
Relationships, breakups, and the value of therapy
Sponsors: Haagen-Dazs and Stouffer's
Learning from past partners and personal growth
Advice for listeners on mental health and therapy
Rebuilding relationship with father and family support
Sponsors: Mushroom Council and Haagen-Dazs
Privacy in relationships and social media pressure
Communication styles and polyamorous relationships
Navigating societal judgment and authenticity
Coming out, sexuality, and finding community
Sponsors: Mushroom Council and BetterHelp
The concept of 'coming in' and handling negativity
Sexual pleasure, shame, and body reclamation
Tour details, album tracklist, and fan gifts
Sponsors: Ashley Lux, Kotex, and T-Mobile
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