#913 - Andrew Schulz - Why Does Modern America Feel So Insane?
Mar 10, 2025
auto_awesome
Join Andrew Schulz, an actor and comedian, as he shares his journey into fatherhood and the challenges of IVF. He humorously reflects on the chaos of modern parenting and the emotional rollercoaster associated with fertility struggles. Andrew also touches on societal expectations surrounding motherhood, differences between the UK and US cultures, and the absurdities of today's political landscape. His insights on using personal experiences in comedy offer a fresh perspective on navigating life's complexities while embracing humor.
Andrew Schulz shares how the challenges of fatherhood and fertility struggles have humorously reshaped his perspective on life.
The podcast explores how Meghan Markle's relationship with Prince Harry has redefined their identities amid public scrutiny and societal expectations.
Discussions emphasize the often-ignored masculine perspective on fertility challenges, encouraging a broader dialogue about male health and vulnerability.
Comedy is highlighted as a vital tool for addressing heavy topics like fertility and parenting, fostering connection and understanding among audiences.
The hosts propose redefining success from wealth to emotional fulfillment, advocating for deeper connections with loved ones over traditional achievements.
Deep dives
Meghan Markle's Lifestyle Series
The episode highlights Meghan Markle's new lifestyle series launching on Netflix. The discussion revolves around the anticipation and excitement surrounding the show, questioning its potential success and implying that Markle has faced significant challenges in her public image. The hosts joke about the odds of her succeeding in the entertainment industry, underscoring the notion that despite her controversial reputation, she continues to find opportunities. This sparks a conversation about the dynamics of fame, privilege, and the public’s perception of high-profile figures.
Prince Harry and Public Perception
As the conversation unfolds, the hosts touch on Prince Harry's relationship with Meghan Markle and the broader implications of their public feud with the royal family. They suggest that Markle has managed to redefine her identity and power by marrying Harry, transforming the narrative surrounding both of them. This figurative 'sucking of privilege' is framed as an intriguing commentary on personal agency and societal expectations. This leads to a deeper reflection on how public figures navigate their identities amid scrutiny.
Cultural Ambivalence Towards Royalty
The hosts express a cultural ambivalence toward the British royal family, conveying that many in America view them as relics of a bygone era. They discuss how this ambivalence is reflected in public sentiment, shaping the way Markle and Harry's actions are received. This dynamic fosters a disconnect between American audiences and traditional monarchy structures, as there's a sense of freedom and independence that contrasts with royal protocols. The conversation highlights the complexities of modern celebrity versus historical relevance.
Personal Stories and Vulnerability
During the podcast, personal anecdotes are shared to emphasize the theme of vulnerability. The speakers recount their experiences concerning fertility issues, and the fears associated with masculinity and expectations of fatherhood. The candidness about personal struggles invites listeners to relate deeply, showcasing the importance of opening up about sensitive topics. This narrative serves not only as comic relief but also as a powerful tool for connection with the audience.
Health, Fertility, and Masculinity
The discussion circles back to health, particularly male fertility, underscoring the societal pressures on men about their reproductive capabilities. It highlights the often-overlooked narrative that fertility challenges also affect men, advocating for a broader conversation about male health. This revelation disrupts long-held stereotypes and urges listeners to confront their own biases surrounding masculinity. The relevance of the topic resonates, as it encourages awareness and support for male emotional vulnerability.
Comedy as a Medium for Healing
Comedy's role in navigating difficult personal topics such as fertility and parenting is highlighted throughout the episode. The hosts reflect on how humor can serve as a coping mechanism, bringing levity to otherwise heavy subjects. By discussing their own challenges in a humorous light, they create a space for others to feel heard and understood. This reinforces the therapeutic nature of comedy and its ability to foster resonance among diverse audiences.
Time, Family, and Life Choices
The repercussions of time on personal life and family dynamics become a crucial theme in the conversation. The speakers reflect on their past choices, contemplating how their respective journeys have influenced their current relationships and future aspirations. There's a growing understanding that, despite prior sacrifices, the arrival of family can redefine priorities and meanings of success. The candid honesty surrounding their feelings of urgency regarding family life resonates powerfully in the context of modern parenting.
Interpersonal Connections and Authenticity
The episode sheds light on the significance of authentic connections in friendships, particularly as one's social and professional life evolves. The hosts emphasize that genuine relationships with friends and family should take precedence over fleeting online opinions. They draw attention to the need for emotional intelligence and how it relates to nurturing meaningful bonds. This focus on authenticity promotes a broader understanding of masculinity that values connection over competition.
Redefining Success Beyond Conventional Metrics
A key point in the podcast is the redefinition of success beyond traditional markers like wealth and career accolades. The speakers suggest that true fulfillment comes from relationships and shared experiences with loved ones. This perspective encourages listeners to recalibrate their definitions of achievement and wealth in favor of emotional and familial bonds. Recognizing that happiness and success can be measured by time spent with loved ones rather than monetary gain is an empowering message.
The Impact of Modern Parenting on Identity
The discussion concludes with insights into how modern parenting shapes personal identity and challenges traditional notions of masculinity. The hosts acknowledge the transformative power of children, asserting that parenthood fosters growth and reevaluation of personal beliefs and values. This shift represents a broader cultural trend toward valuing emotional availability and vulnerability in men. The episode ultimately advocates for embracing the complexities of parenthood and the profound lessons it imparts.
Andrew Schulz is an actor, comedian and a podcaster.
Having children today’s world can be challenging. Parenthood, especially with fertility struggles, comes with obstacles, but is layered with moments of humour. As a new father, Andrew shares insights on IVF and a fresh take on the chaos of the world as a proud new father.
Expect to learn how becoming a father has changed Andrew for the better, what it was like to go though fertility challenges when conceiving, what IVF was like for Andrew and his wife, how Andrew used his struggles with IVF in his new comedy special, Andrews thoughts on the Zelensky-Trump Oval Office meeting, the biggest differences Andrew sees in the UK and US, what Andrew thinks is really going on with the Epstein files, Andrew’s thoughts on Tate’s recent return to America, the conversation between Andrew Huberman, Bryan Johnson and Kim Kardashian and much more…
