Lauren Patten has no interest in pretending.

Despite a robust theatrical resume, including a Tony win for Best Featured Actress in the hit show Jagged Little Pill, and plenty of TV/film experience, with her starring role on the show Death and Other Details, Lauren is quick to find the vulnerable pocket of a conversation, a space that acknowledges and confronts her creative paralysis and perfectionistic tendencies. That’s what made us so delighted to host her on The Resistance.

For all of her success, Lauren is remarkably open about her journey toward self-discovery—both personal and professional—which is why the young artist is so relatable. On this episode, she discusses how her roles have helped her realize her own story, that she’s accessed parts of her real story by stepping into the narratives of others. She also talks about the courage she’s summoning to expand her career in new, unexpected directions.

Here’s our conversation with Lauren Patten.