Ego Nwodim’s “Thanks Dad” Podcast Returns for Season 2 with Big Money Players and iHeartMedia
The ever-charismatic actress, comedian, and producer Ego Nwodim is back in the spotlight — this time with the highly anticipated second season of her acclaimed podcast, Thanks Dad. After a celebrated debut that captured listeners with its warmth, wit, and honesty, the series now joins Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players Network and iHeartMedia, solidifying its position as one of the most promising comedy-interview podcasts in today’s booming audio scene.
A Star Returns: Ego Nwodim’s Journey from SNL to Podcast Stardom
Before becoming one of the most recognizable faces on Saturday Night Live, Ego Nwodim built her career on sharp humor, bold characters, and authentic storytelling. Born and raised in Baltimore, Nwodim transitioned from biology major at the University of Southern California to sketch comedian, carving her niche in an industry often dominated by big personalities and bigger egos.
With Thanks Dad, she channels that same comedic intelligence and emotional insight into long-form conversations — ones that bridge the gap between laughter and introspection, family and fame, identity and creativity.
“This season, I’m speaking with a broader range of guests, while staying true to the heart of the podcast — to connect, inspire, and bring some joy,” Nwodim shared in her announcement.
About “Thanks Dad” – The Heart of the Podcast
The name Thanks Dad pays tribute not just to family, but to the quirky and complex relationships that shape who we become. Each episode features deep, funny, and heartfelt conversations between Nwodim and her guests — ranging from Hollywood celebrities to everyday storytellers.
Core themes explored include:
Family and upbringing: How parents, siblings, and childhood shape our perspectives.
Identity and purpose: Navigating life’s transitions with humor and humility.
The creative journey: Struggles and breakthroughs in art, comedy, and media.
Connection through laughter: Finding joy in vulnerability and shared humanity.
Season Two Highlights: A Broader, Brighter Perspective
The new season, premiering Tuesday, October 28, 2025, expands its reach and roster. This time, listeners can expect bigger guests, deeper conversations, and more emotional honesty — all wrapped in Nwodim’s signature wit.
Confirmed Guests Include:
Tamron Hall – Emmy-winning journalist and talk show host, discussing resilience and motherhood in the public eye.
Miguel – Grammy-winning singer-songwriter reflecting on art, fame, and the creative process.
Heidi Gardner – Comedian and SNL castmate, appearing in the season premiere episode for a candid and hilarious chat about family quirks, friendship, and their shared love of Jack Black.
In the first episode, Nwodim and Gardner unpack the chaos of “wacky ex-boyfriends,” reminisce about their early SNL days, and laugh over the absurdities that brought them closer together.
Big Money Players Network & iHeartMedia: The Power Behind the Mic
With Thanks Dad now officially part of Big Money Players Network, the show joins a powerhouse lineup that includes some of the biggest comedic voices in podcasting — all executive-produced by Will Ferrell in partnership with iHeartMedia.
What This Partnership Means:
Bigger reach: Distribution through iHeartPodcasts expands global accessibility.
High production value: Enhanced sound design and storytelling quality.
Video content expansion: Full episodes available on Thanks Dad’s official YouTube Channel, providing fans with behind-the-scenes visuals and on-screen chemistry.
Cross-promotion opportunities: Appearances on related Big Money Players shows and digital events.
This collaboration positions Thanks Dad not just as a podcast, but as a multi-platform entertainment experience designed for today’s hybrid audio-visual audience.
Award-Winning Recognition: A Podcast with Impact
Earlier in 2025, Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim earned a prestigious Ambie Award for Best Interview Podcast, a testament to its blend of humor, empathy, and originality. In an era where countless podcasts compete for attention, Nwodim’s show stands out for its authentic storytelling and genuine emotional connection with listeners.
“People listen to feel seen,” Nwodim explained in an interview. “Comedy gives us permission to tell the truth in a way that heals.”
Beyond the Mic: Ego Nwodim’s Expanding Creative Universe
Even as she builds her podcast empire, Nwodim continues to explore new creative territories. This fall, she makes her off-Broadway debut at Lincoln Center with her one-woman comedy show, part of The Comedy Series — a major milestone showcasing her range as a writer and performer.
Highlights of Nwodim’s Career Beyond Podcasting
Seven Years on Saturday Night Live: From “Miss Eggy” to “Lisa from Temecula,” her sketches have gone viral worldwide, blending absurd humor with social commentary.
Film & Television: Recently wrapped production on Little Brother, a Netflix comedy directed by Matt Spicer, co-starring John Cena and Eric André.
Theater Roots: Before television fame, she honed her craft in improv and stand-up stages across Los Angeles, particularly at the Upright Citizens Brigade.
This balance of screen, stage, and sound projects reflects her rare versatility — and her growing influence in the entertainment industry.
What Makes “Thanks Dad” Different
While celebrity interview podcasts are abundant, Thanks Dad distinguishes itself through intimacy and perspective. Nwodim’s approach is not about promotion or performance; it’s about understanding the human side of success, struggle, and self-discovery.
What Listeners Love About the Show:
Relatable storytelling: Honest reflections on family, identity, and growing up.
Comedic authenticity: A blend of laughter and vulnerability that feels effortless.
Diverse guest list: Voices from film, television, music, and everyday life.
Emotional depth: Episodes often end with insight — not just punchlines.
A Platform for Joy, Healing, and Representation
For many listeners, Nwodim’s voice offers comfort and representation in spaces where Black women’s humor and perspective are often underrepresented. Her storytelling bridges cultures and generations, tackling universal themes with sharp intelligence and sincerity.
“I want people to walk away from each episode feeling lighter, even if we talk about something heavy,” Nwodim told Variety. “Laughter has always been my language of healing.”
How to Tune In: Schedule & Platforms
Release Schedule: 🎧 New episodes every Tuesday
Available On:
iHeartPodcasts
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Amazon Music
YouTube (Video Episodes)
Produced By: Big Money Players Network & iHeartMedia Executive Producers: Will Ferrell, iHeartMedia
Behind the Scenes: How “Thanks Dad” is Made
Listeners often praise the production quality of Thanks Dad — something that stems from Nwodim’s hands-on creative process. Every episode is carefully crafted to balance humor with heart, featuring dynamic editing, natural soundscapes, and thoughtful pacing.
Creative Process Snapshot
Guest Selection: Focused on diversity of experiences and storytelling potential.
Interview Prep: Nwodim researches deeply, creating genuine curiosity rather than scripted Q&A.
Recording & Editing: Seamless flow that highlights emotional beats without losing comedic rhythm.
Audience Feedback: Listeners’ input often shapes future topics and tone.
This method ensures the show stays authentic, evolving, and audience-driven.
The Bigger Picture: The Podcast Boom in 2025
The success of Thanks Dad reflects a broader shift in entertainment — where podcasts are now the new talk shows, blending celebrity insight with personal vulnerability.
Industry Trends Fueling the Growth:
The rise of video podcasts on YouTube and TikTok.
Increased listener demand for authenticity over scripted celebrity content.
Brands investing heavily in podcast advertising and sponsorships.
Major networks like iHeartMedia building “audio-first ecosystems.”
With this momentum, Thanks Dad is positioned as both a cultural commentary and a feel-good favorite in the evolving digital media landscape.
The Emotional Resonance: Why Listeners Keep Coming Back
The secret to the podcast’s success lies in emotional honesty. Listeners describe Thanks Dad as “therapeutic,” “comforting,” and “surprisingly funny in the middle of pain.” That blend of laughter and life lessons makes the show a must-listen for fans who crave more than surface-level interviews.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Ego Nwodim
As she juggles projects across podcasting, theater, and film, Ego Nwodim is clearly in a creative renaissance. Future plans include:
Expanding Thanks Dad into live recordings with audiences.
Potential TV adaptation of select podcast episodes.
Launching a book project inspired by the show’s themes of family and gratitude.
Whatever comes next, Nwodim’s ability to merge humor with humanity ensures she’ll continue to stand out in every medium she touches.
Final Thoughts
Ego Nwodim’s Thanks Dad isn’t just a podcast — it’s a celebration of connection, creativity, and comedy. By blending heartfelt interviews with unfiltered humor, Nwodim proves that the most powerful conversations are often the ones that make us both laugh and reflect.
As Season Two launches under the banner of Big Money Players Network and iHeartMedia, one thing is certain: Ego Nwodim’s voice isn’t just being heard — it’s being felt.
