Jonathan Van Ness, known for their role on “Queer Eye” and their long-running podcast, “Getting Curious,” has announced a significant evolution of the show. The podcast, which has explored a wide range of topics since its inception in 2015, is now rebranded as “Getting Better with JVN,” with a renewed focus on personal development.
Van Ness shared the news via Instagram, stating, “After 9+ years Getting Curious is evolving into something new. I’m still getting curious, but in new ways. Introducing… Getting Better with JVN, a new chapter of Getting Curious. While the old Getting Curious was learning about the world around me, Getting Better is using curiosity as a tool for personal growth.”
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The rebranded podcast will feature experts, friends, and leaders who will join Van Ness each week to facilitate growth and learning. Notably, “Getting Better with JVN” will now include video content available on YouTube, in addition to its audio format.
“Experts in their fields, friends, and leaders will come on every week and help us grow, learn about ourselves, access some joy, and one more thing.. we now have video! It will all be on YouTube! And also still everywhere you listen,” Van Ness wrote.
The evolution of the podcast marks a new chapter for Van Ness, who has built a diverse career spanning television, writing, and activism. “This has been my baby for almost a decade and this is just the next chapter. Please come along with me, we’re in this together,” they shared.
“Getting Curious” debuted in 2015 with an episode examining Sunni and Shia Muslim relations. Over the years, the podcast has covered a wide array of topics, from social justice issues to pop culture phenomena. Van Ness’s career trajectory has paralleled the podcast’s growth, with their rise to fame on Netflix’s “Queer Eye,” followed by a memoir, children’s book, and essay collection.
Van Ness has also engaged in advocacy work, lobbying for LGBTQ+ rights in Washington D.C., and has been open about their identity as non-binary and HIV-positive. They have also launched a haircare line and toured a live show that blends comedy and gymnastics.
Despite their multifaceted career, Van Ness has remained committed to their podcast, which recently reached its 300th episode. “I’m just so curious about us in the United States, how things got this way, and how we became who we became,” Van Ness said. “I feel like I’ve grown up with the show, and so much of what I know about life, I’ve learned while recording this podcast.”
In a previous interview, Van Ness highlighted several pivotal “Getting Curious” episodes, offering insight into their wide-ranging interests and commitment to education. Topics included:
- Techno-chauvinism: An episode featuring data journalist Meredith Broussard explored algorithmic bias and the limitations of technology.
- Hair variation: Evolutionary biologist Tina Lasisi discussed the science of hair, debunking myths and addressing the historical misuse of hair science in criminal investigations.
- Fatphobia: Sociology professor Sabrina Strings discussed the historical roots of fatphobia and the problematic origins of the body mass index (BMI).
- Data collection and privacy: Broussard returned to discuss data collection and the importance of privacy legislation.
- Queer animal kingdom and mycology: Episodes explored the diversity of sexual expression in the animal kingdom and the complex reproductive systems of mushrooms.
- Reproductive justice: An episode examined the history of reproductive rights and the impact of white supremacy on reproductive justice.
- Child welfare system: Van Ness explored the complexities of the child welfare system and the financial incentives that can perpetuate family separation.
- Ice in Hawaii: An episode delved into the cultural and historical significance of ice in Hawaii, tracing its roots to colonialism.
The transition to “Getting Better with JVN” reflects Van Ness’s evolving focus on personal growth and using their platform to empower listeners. The inclusion of video content on YouTube will further enhance the podcast’s reach, allowing viewers to engage with Van Ness and their guests in a more immersive way.
