Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out

KC Shornima, a talented comedian and SNL writer who once climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, shares her unique perspective on handling stress and humor in tough situations. She discusses the balance of addressing sensitive topics, like trauma, in comedy and the powerful connection between laughter and pain. Mike and KC also dive into hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from SNL, and she reflects on how childhood experiences influence her comedic storytelling. Their conversation emphasizes the value of vulnerability in both life and laughter.

Ryan Hamilton, a comedian known for his Netflix special 'Happy Face', returns to discuss his remarkable journey after being hit by an airport shuttle bus. He shares how he transformed trauma into comedy, even humorously recalling a weed-buying escapade with his mom during recovery. Ryan offers insights into life on the road, including his touring routine with Jerry Seinfeld and invaluable advice from Chris Rock. With wit and candor, he navigates the delicate balance of humor and hardship in his performances.

Ben Stiller, acclaimed for his roles in Zoolander and Night at the Museum, teams up with Adam Scott, known for Parks and Recreation and Severance. Together, they delve into the behind-the-scenes magic of Severance Season 2 and share audition tips filled with humor. The trio reflects on early acting journeys, the challenge of maintaining character during comedic performances, and the emotional weight of grief in their work. Their nostalgic banter about past projects adds a comedic touch, leaving listeners both entertained and enlightened.

Fred Armisen, renowned actor and comedian known for his work on Saturday Night Live and Portlandia, joins for a lively discussion. He shares hilarious stories from his SNL audition and offers insightful sketch writing tips. The conversation also meanders into the oddities of museum etiquette and how different cultures embrace the acoustic guitar. At one point, he even picks up Mike's guitar to illustrate musical styles worldwide. Their playful banter reveals the importance of enjoyment in creativity, making for a delightful listen.

Jo Firestone, a multi-talented writer, actor, and comedian, returns for an engaging chat. She shares her innovative approach to live comedy that includes clay and pie, and recounts an amusing mishap that put her in a spotlight with security. The duo playfully debates text acronyms for laughter, while also discussing the quirks of dating and societal standards. Jo reflects on collaboration in comedy and the nuances of creativity, all within an entertaining framework of personal stories and laughter.

Kumail Nanjiani, a stand-up comedian and actor known for 'The Big Sick' and 'Silicon Valley,' shares insights into his return to stand-up after a six-year hiatus. He discusses the emotional journey tied to the Marvel film 'Eternals' and the dynamics of collaborative writing with his wife. Kumail opens up about his Broadway experience in 'Oh, Mary!' and the complex balance of vulnerability in relationships and comedic performance. The conversation also touches on the importance of accessing mental health care and the evolution of comedic identity over time.

Dive into the fascinating world of comedy with a blend of creativity and community! Discover how artificial intelligence might reshape humor and hear personal stories about overcoming creative blocks. Learn the art of resetting audience energy during performances that go awry. Plus, gain insights on reigniting your passion for stand-up after a break and the importance of shared experiences in connecting with your audience. Perfect for aspiring comedians and fans alike!

In this lively conversation, comedy legend Bob Odenkirk, known for his roles in SNL and Breaking Bad, dives into the interplay between anger and humor. He shares insights on balancing his transitions from comedy to dramatic roles, and even action films like Nobody. Bob discusses the challenges of authenticity in the fickle entertainment industry and reflects on personal chaos shaping creativity. He also touches on invaluable life lessons from parenthood and the importance of supporting charitable causes like Food on Foot.

Alex Edelman, an Emmy-winning comedian and writer for The Paper, returns for his fifth chat, diving into the nostalgia of being a Boston sports fan. He shares hilarious tales, including his unexpected stint as a hospital clown and the challenges of finding humor amidst grief. The conversation also touches on the potential impact of AI on comedy and reflects on his creative journey after losing a collaborator. With insights on comedy and personal anecdotes, Alex keeps the laughs rolling while pondering life’s more serious themes.

Chelsea Handler, a stand-up comic and author, shares her journey from career lows, including a major bomb at Just For Laughs, to her present success with 'The Feeling'. She reflects on the importance of sisterhood in comedy and offers humorous insights into daily rituals, like her love for coffee. Chelsea reveals a wild anecdote about unintentionally transporting cocaine and her bold confrontation with Woody Allen. The conversation also explores personal growth, resilience, and the necessity for balance in a comedian's life.