Blocks w/ Neal Brennan cover image

Blocks w/ Neal Brennan

Ed Helms

Sep 12, 2024
In this engaging conversation, Ed Helms, known for his roles in The Hangover and The Office, discusses the loneliness and isolation that come with fame. He shares his journey with ADHD and how it has influenced his comedy career. Ed opens up about imposter syndrome and the challenges of time perception, while humorously reflecting on social anxiety in the entertainment industry. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, not just in therapy, but in comedy as well, showcasing his growth and acceptance of his unique identity.
59:39

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ed Helms reflects on his ADHD diagnosis, highlighting both the clarity it provides and the challenges it presents for self-management.
  • He discusses the pervasive nature of imposter syndrome in his career, emphasizing the support from collaborators in overcoming self-doubt.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Comedy and Music

The discussion highlights the transformative influence of the Backstreet Boys on the music industry and contrasts it with Ed Helms' career trajectory, particularly related to the hit movie, The Hangover. Helms reflects on how both the success of The Hangover and his earlier project, The Goods, were pivotal, yet the latter did not achieve the expected acclaim despite its comedic quality. This dialogue underscores the unpredictability of the entertainment industry, where sometimes, despite hard work and talent, projects do not resonate with audiences as anticipated. Furthermore, he acknowledges the importance of casting and chemistry in creating memorable performances, as exemplified by Todd Phillips’ direction in The Hangover.

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