You Made It Weird with Pete Holmes Mike Birbiglia #4
Nov 22, 2023
Comedian and actor Mike Birbiglia discusses his new special on Netflix, his friendship with the host, and the concept of a 'day off'. They also talk about their energy levels, a previous episode, staying overnight at someone's place, sleeping arrangements, and the challenges of fitting in beds. The conversation includes humorous discussions about giving up pornography, self-improvement, and therapy, performing comedy on Broadway versus in comedy clubs, and playful conversations about ramen noodles and impressions.
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Dinner Party Shifted Dynamics
- Pete and Mike describe a dinner-party-turned-sleepover that shifted group dynamics and exposed Mike's social defensiveness.
- The larger guest list made Mike feel himself “vanish,” which he links to old junior-high wounds and social positioning.
Push Toward The Emotional Core
- When workshopping jokes, push toward the real emotional core instead of clever detours.
- Mike and Pete both recommend following the true feeling to make material land and move people.
Obsession Drives Stronger Comedy
- Mike says stand-up works best when it follows obsession rather than surface topics.
- He trims material that feels too close to grieving but believes those audiences often need that honesty.