The Gist Funny You Should Mention: Steph Tolev
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Oct 10, 2025 Stand-up comedian Steph Tolev, creator of the Netflix special 'Filth Queen' and the podcast 'Steph Infection', dives into the world of boundary-pushing humor and the Canadian comedy scene. She discusses the smart side of gross comedy, how viral crowd work can reshape careers, and shares a wild story from her podcast about a woman using raw chicken to fake a pregnancy. Steph also reflects on the challenges of performing with physical ailments and the impact of Bill Burr’s support on her journey. Prepare for laughs and thoughtful insights!
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Raw Chicken In The ER
- Steph recounts a nurse-told ER story where a woman put a raw chicken into her vagina to fake pregnancy, causing horrific infection and smell.
- The story stuck with Steph and listeners because of its visceral grotesqueness and emotional shock.
Why Women Share More Body Horror
- Steph argues women share more grotesque body stories because they were raised hearing horror stories about bodies and periods.
- That upbringing makes female comedians more willing to discuss bodily discomfort and taboo topics on stage.
Performing With Severe Sun Eczema
- Steph describes getting severe sun-related eczema before her first special, performing wrapped in gauze with open sores.
- The injury lasted months and she still had to perform despite painful blisters.