Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out 173. Atsuko Okatsuka Returns: The Dizzy Duo
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Jun 16, 2025 Atsuko Okatsuka, a talented comedian known for her Hulu and Disney+ specials, joins her friend Mike for a lively conversation. They reminisce about their journey from comedy gigs to close friendship, sharing hilarious stories, like the time Atsuko was 'kidnapped' by her grandmother. They explore the art of transforming personal experiences into comedy, touch on the dynamics of relationships, and even delve into the whimsical concept of 'nighttime friends.' Their candid reflections on life's challenges make for insightful and entertaining listening.
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Kidnapped by Grandmother Story
- Atsuko Okatsuka shares a personal story about being kidnapped by her grandmother as a child.
- She later confronted her grandmother with a recorded conversation to unpack the event.
Family Lies Spark Laughter
- The audience laughs at Atsuko's very specific family story because they relate to family lies.
- It speaks to the universal absurdity of relationships with parents who should know better.
Dizzy Appearance Described
- Mike Birbiglia and Atsuko Okatsuka discuss the perception that Mike always looks dizzy or drunk.
- Atsuko uses the metaphor of a blindfolded child spun around to describe Mike’s frequent appearance.
