About this episode

Drew and Lea Lachey discuss how their classroom empathy exercise inspired the Off-Broadway musical Label•less, emphasizing the importance of kindness in their work and lives.

When Drew Lachey (98 Degrees) and Lea Lachey (Choreographer) asked their students to anonymously write down the ways they didn't feel seen, they had no idea it would change the course of their lives. Those handwritten stories became the foundation for Label•less, the moving new Off-Broadway theatrical experience encouraging audiences to look beyond labels and reconnect through empathy. In this special The Art of Kindness conversation, Drew and Lea join Robert Peterpaul to discuss how kindness shapes every aspect of their work—from directing and teaching to parenting and creating safe spaces where artists can thrive. This podcast podcast episode covers: How their new show Label•less was born out of classroom Redefining labels from educator to parent to pop star and what they really mean Building rehearsal rooms with love instead of fear How kind leaders are better leaders Why they can't shake an interaction with one random security guard, plus more. Label•less is a groundbreaking new 90-minute musical experience that gets real about the challenges we all face in today’s world. Created by Drew Lachey (98 Degrees & “Dancing With the Stars”) and choreographer Lea Lachey, Label•less…

People in this episode

Host: Robert Peterpaul

Guests: Drew Lachey, Lea Lachey

Topics covered

• empathy
• theatrical experience
• kindness
• education
• musical
• parenting
• leadership

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: 98 Degrees, Dancing With the Stars

Books & works: Label•less

More episodes of The Art of Kindness: Pop Culture & Positivity with Robert Peterpaul

• Hand Stitching Your Way to Mindfulness, Creativity & Connection with Elizabeth Duke · July 21, 2026 · 57 min
• How 'The Lost Boys' Tony Winner Jen Schriever Lights Up Broadway with Kindness & Curiosity · July 6, 2026 · 47 min
• Carey Renee Sharpe: From Pediatric ICU Nurse to Finding Her 'Blood' Off-Broadway · June 29, 2026 · 45 min
• Isaac Mizrahi on Acceptance, Broadway Legends & Not Caring What People Think · June 22, 2026 · 49 min
• JoAnna Garcia Swisher (Sweet Magnolias) Returns: The Secret to Being a Good Friend · June 15, 2026 · 49 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Art of Kindness: Pop Culture & Positivity with Robert Peterpaul podcast page.