Ep 109. Nell Bernstein, Ed O'Neill

In season 8, episode 109 of Tavis Smiley, viewers are treated to an engaging conversation between Nell Bernstein and Ed O'Neill.

Nell Bernstein is a renowned author and journalist who has written extensively on the US criminal justice system. Her most recent book, Burning Down the House, delves into the ways in which mass incarceration affects families and communities. Bernstein's book highlights stories of families who are impacted by the criminal justice system and provides insightful commentary on how policies affect them.

Ed O'Neill is perhaps best known for his roles in the popular sitcoms Married... with Children and Modern Family. He is also an accomplished stage actor and has appeared in many films over the years. In this episode of Tavis Smiley, O'Neill shares his thoughts on his career and reflects on his experiences working in the entertainment industry.

Throughout the episode, Smiley asks Bernstein and O'Neill probing questions about their respective fields. The conversations are insightful and thought-provoking, touching on topics such as the importance of storytelling, the role of the arts in society, and the complexities of the criminal justice system.

One particularly fascinating moment occurs when Smiley asks Bernstein about her process for researching her book. Bernstein explains that she spent many years visiting and speaking with incarcerated individuals and their families, observing how they interacted with one another and learning about the challenges they faced. She describes the emotional toll that this work took on her, but also emphasizes the importance of bearing witness to the stories of those affected by mass incarceration.

O'Neill's reflections on his career are equally compelling. He discusses his early struggles as an actor, including moments when he doubted his own abilities. However, he also speaks about the mentors who helped him along the way and the importance of remaining true to oneself in the face of industry pressures.

Throughout the episode, Smiley acts as a skillful moderator, drawing out the insights and perspectives of his guests while keeping the dialogue flowing. He creates a warm and inviting environment for conversation, inviting viewers to engage with the themes explored by Bernstein and O'Neill.

Overall, season 8, episode 109 of Tavis Smiley is a must-watch for anyone interested in the criminal justice system, the arts, or the human experience more broadly. Through their candid and thoughtful discussions, Bernstein and O'Neill exemplify the power of storytelling and the importance of bearing witness to the lives of others. Smiley facilitates an engaging and insightful conversation that will leave viewers thinking long after the credits roll.