‘We Need Someone Who Is Unafraid To Speak His Mind About Tough Issues,’ Says ‘Dr. Phil’ Co-Executive Producer

Dr. Phil Co-Executive Producer Astra Austin says the topics she loves to tackle on the show are news and social issues. In season 3, she produced an episode titled, “I’m Gay, OK?” “It wasn’t easy. We received a lot of negative feedback,” says Astra, adding, “I knew it was the right thing to do, and Dr. Phil knew it was the right thing to do. [Executive Producer] Carla Pennington knew it was the right thing to do. That was just the beginning.” Astra says she’s produced numerous controversial episodes in the 16 years she’s been with the program taking on the topics of racism, white privilege, and more. “We need someone who is unafraid to speak his mind about tough issues,” She says about Dr. Phil. “It’s true authenticity – keeping it real.” Hear more about Astra’s career at Dr. Phil in the video above. Plus, hear from Co-Executive Producer Angie Kraus who has been working with Dr. Phil since his days on Oprah, and Co-Executive Producer John Perry who says he has “the most interesting job” at Dr. Phil. Tune in on Wednesday for guest updates in the conclusion of this two-part episode, “Dr. Phil: 20 Years Changing Lives,” airs Wednesday. Check your local listing for air times. Want to be part of the virtual audience? Click here.