Join Russell Kane, a multi-award-winning comedian and author, as he dives deep into his complex relationship with his father, exploring how it shaped his views on masculinity and personal growth. He shares insights on the dynamics of parental authority and the importance of self-awareness in overcoming negativity. Russell also discusses his journey from being bullied to embracing comedy, alongside transformative health practices. Get ready for a fascinating look at navigating identity, personal responsibility, and the art of laughter in life.
01:45:02
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Overbearing Father
Russell Kane discusses his childhood with an overbearing father.
He felt like a child even as an adult and was terrified of his father.
insights INSIGHT
Two-Parent Dynamic
Kane believes having two parental figures, one playing "bad cop," is beneficial.
He suggests this dynamic, regardless of gender, provides a stronger force in raising a child.
question_answer ANECDOTE
DNA Test
Kane took a DNA test, partly to explore his ethnic background and potential diseases.
He jokingly admits a fleeting thought about his paternity, contrasting his appearance with his father's.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
The Humorist follows Benjamin White, a man who cannot laugh or smile but has a deep understanding of humor. He becomes a feared comedy critic and discovers a formula for creating jokes so powerful they can kill. The novel explores philosophical ideas about humor, blending horror and mystery elements. Despite its promising premise, some readers found the execution lacking in plot progression and humor.
Lifespan
Why We Age—and Why We Don’t Have To
David Sinclair
In this book, Dr. David Sinclair presents a bold new theory on why we age, arguing that aging is a disease that can be treated. He discusses recent breakthroughs from his own lab at Harvard, including the activation of newly discovered vitality genes and the role of epigenetics and metabolism in aging. The book explores lifestyle changes such as intermittent fasting, cold exposure, and exercise, as well as emerging anti-aging therapies, to help people live younger and healthier for longer. Sinclair also delves into the philosophical and ethical implications of extending human lifespan, emphasizing that these methods are not against nature but rather a continuation of human efforts to improve health and longevity[2][3][5].
Lost Connections
Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression – and the Unexpected Solutions
Johann Hari
In 'Lost Connections', Johann Hari explores the increasing rates of depression and anxiety in the Western world. Through a 40,000-mile journey interviewing experts and visiting various communities, Hari identifies nine causes of depression and anxiety, all centered around the theme of disconnection. These causes include disconnection from meaningful work, other people, meaningful values, childhood trauma, status and respect, the natural world, and a hopeful or secure future. The book also delves into the role of genes and brain changes. Hari argues that traditional solutions focusing on chemical imbalances are insufficient and proposes alternative solutions based on reconnection, such as social prescribing, community engagement, and addressing societal issues like inequality and lack of social security.
My guest this week is Russell Kane, a Multi-award-winning comedian, presenter, actor, author and scriptwriter. Russell Kane is best known for the BBC Radio 4 podcast Evil Genius, which has become a flagship show and was the best performing original podcast on the BBC Sounds platform. Russell's other podcast, Boys Don't Cry, also features regularly on the iTunes podcast chart.
Kane is also the author of two books, “The Humorist” and the very well-received memoir about his father “Son of a Silverback: Growing Up in the Shadow of an Alpha Male”. Russell went on to make history as the first comedian to win both the Edinburgh Award and Melbourne Comedy Festival's Barry Award in one year.
In this conversation you see the less funny side of Russell, it is however one of the most informative, fascinating and mind-boggling conversations I've ever had on this podcast. This guy has more knowledge than you could ever imagine and I think you’re really going to enjoy this chat.