Langston Kerman, a comedian and former high school teacher with an MFA in poetry, dives into the hilarious and poignant ties between poetry and stand-up. He shares wild stories about taking students to China and reflects on his experiences in Boston's vibrant comedy scene. Langston reveals why John Mulaney directed his Netflix special, 'Bad Poetry,' and explores how his teaching background has influenced his comedic journey. A lively discussion about the challenges of balancing art and performance makes for a captivating listen.
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Quick takeaways
Langston Kerman's journey from a high school teacher to a comedian illustrates the intertwined nature of poetry and comedy in creative expression.
The podcast addresses the pressures and self-doubt faced by creatives, highlighting the internal conflicts between passion and the desire for success.
Kerman's Netflix special 'Bad Poetry', directed by John Mulaney, underscores the supportive yet competitive dynamics of the comedy scene.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Hosting on Airbnb
The discussion emphasizes the financial opportunities presented by hosting on Airbnb, particularly during periods of extended travel or temporary relocation. Individuals often overlook how much income can be generated from renting out their homes, guest houses, or even spare bedrooms. The podcast encourages listeners to evaluate the potential monetary value of their properties, which might exceed their expectations. It suggests visiting Airbnb's website for insight into home valuation and how to start hosting.
Facing the Fear of Acting
The speaker shares his anxiety about preparing to shoot a movie, reflecting on the pressures and fears that accompany such creative undertakings later in life. The narrative underscores the challenges faced by individuals in creative fields as they wrestle with self-doubt and the pursuit of excellence. Despite a passion for what he does, the speaker admits to a lack of certainty in finding joy in the process, prioritizing the desire to succeed instead. This fear is contrasted with the notion of enjoying the creative endeavors as one gains experience.
Conversations with Langston Kerman
Langston Kerman, a rising comedian, is introduced as a guest on the podcast, whose work is gaining attention, particularly after his special 'Bad Poetry' directed by John Mulaney. The conversation explores Kerman's unique journey in comedy, highlighting his roots in poetry and the transition to stand-up. He reflects on both the struggles and rewards of developing his comedic voice, particularly given the supportive yet competitive nature of the comedy scene. Their discussion reveals the formative influences of other prominent comedians in shaping Kerman's career.
Insights from Al Pacino's Memoir
The speaker shares how reading Al Pacino's memoir offered valuable insights into the creative process and the experiences that shaped a successful acting career. Key anecdotes from Pacino’s life resonate with the speaker, providing inspiration and comfort during his own endeavors in film. The discussion emphasizes how personal connections to creative works can elicit feelings of encouragement and validation. The experience of connecting with a beloved actor's journey is deemed fortuitous and reflects on the importance of life lessons from those who have navigated similar paths.
A Film Recommendation and its Cultural Impact
The speaker highly recommends the film 'The Substance', describing it as a profound exploration of vanity, aging, and societal pressures, particularly on women. There is an emphasis on the movie's engaging narrative that intertwines elements of science fiction and horror, drawing parallels to the works of iconic directors like Cronenberg and Kubrick. The experience of watching the film, especially in a cinema setting, is portrayed as an essential cultural event that provokes deep thought and discussion. The speaker insists that its audacity and artistic merit make it a must-see for audiences interested in impactful cinema.
Langston Kerman named his new Netflix comedy special Bad Poetry, harkening back to his time as a high school teacher. But as someone with an MFA in poetry, Langston knows enough about the dividing line between the bad and the good in both poetry and comedy, two things which are forever connected in his life. Langston and Marc talk about his days as a teacher, as well as his time in Boston, his trip to China with students, the best comedy clubs in America, and why John Mulaney directed his special.