Wild Card with Rachel Martin Aparna Nancherla doesn't know why she's here
Jul 24, 2025
Aparna Nancherla, a stand-up comedian known for her insightful and humorous takes on anxiety and depression, shares her journey with Rachel. She humorously recounts a childhood potluck story that reveals cultural expectations and personal authenticity. The conversation dives deep into her experiences portrayed in the documentary 'Anxiety Club,' exploring the complex relationship between anxiety and comedy. Aparna also reflects on the struggle of success perception, the emotional landscape of performance, and the transformative power of creativity.
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Toddler Tantrum Over Cake
- Aparna's family tells a story of her toddler tantrum over wanting to try every dessert at a potluck.
- She got a container of cake samples but woke up disappointed, feeling tricked despite getting what she wanted.
Rejecting Ethnic Stereotype Jokes
- Early in her career, Aparna was advised to do jokes about being Indian but rejected the offensive material offered.
- She focused instead on her personal perspective rather than ethnic identity in her comedy.
Neurotic Brains Fuel Comedy
- Comedy attracts people with neurotic, anxious, depressive brains because such minds fuel observational humor.
- Stand-up turns questioning and dissecting life norms into comedic art, engaging those who dwell deeply in thought.