Josh Groban Talks Early Breaks, Broadway, Baseball Cards, and “Hidden Gems”
By Chris Bobbitt, Broadcast Manager, Walmart Radio
3 MIN READ
A Shy Choir Kid Becomes a Global Voice
Josh shared that his “aha” moment came thanks to a teacher who believed in him long before he believed in himself. “I was a shy kid hiding in the back of the choir,” he said. “My teacher pulled me to the front and said, ‘You’re singing the next solo.’ That moment changed my life.” That moment launched a journey that eventually led Grammy-winning producer David Foster to discover Josh at age 17, opening doors Josh never imagined.
The Big Break That Changed Everything
Before fame, Josh headed to Carnegie Mellon to study musical theater. But when David Foster offered to make an album with him, Josh took what he assumed would be a one-year break. “Twenty-five years later, I’m sitting here with you talking about it,” Josh laughed. And the rest, of course, became a platinum-selling, arena-touring career.
Broadway, Netflix, Movies… and The Office
Fans know Josh for his powerful vocals, but he’s built an impressive acting résumé as well — including his Netflix series *The Good Cop*, film appearances, and acclaimed Broadway performances. Chris made sure to highlight Josh’s iconic cameo as Walter Bernard Jr. on "The Office," which Josh joked was “absolutely a career highlight.”
Josh said he’s open to returning to Broadway when the right project arrives, calling it both “the happiest and hardest I’ve ever worked.”
Spreading Light Through the Arts
Josh’s passion for creativity extends beyond performing. His Find Your Light Foundation supports arts education programs across the country. It began in 2005 when fans surprised him with a $25,000 donation onstage. "I realized this platform could do real good,” Josh said. “We’ve raised millions to keep arts education alive.” Supporters can learn more or donate at FYLF.org.
Video Games, Baseball Cards, and Dried Mango
When Josh isn’t touring, he relaxes with hobbies that take him right back to being 15 — video games, MLB The Show, and collecting baseball cards. He even runs a secret eBay card store. “If you think you found me, message the seller,” he teased.
And yes… dried mango is his tour snack weakness.
Hidden Gems and the Road Ahead
Josh shared details about "Gems" and "Hidden Gems," collections celebrating both fan favorites and rare deep cuts. He’ll be touring next year with many of these songs. Chris also surprised him with the news that "Gems" is a bestseller on Walmart.com.
“Whoa! That’s awesome. Thank you, Walmart.com!” Josh said with a smile.
A Conversation Full of Heart
From gratitude for his early choir teacher to his passion for the arts and his quirky humor about coffee, squiggles, and dried mango, Josh brought warmth and authenticity to Walmart & Sam’s Club Radio.
It was an uplifting conversation with an artist who continues to connect people through music — approaching it all with humility, wonder, and joy.