NYC Spends 1.6 Million on Panic Buttons + Comedian Ben Gleib
May 6, 2025
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In this chat, Ben Gleib, a dynamic comedian known for his work on 'Chelsea Lately,' dives into the absurdity of NYC spending $1.6 million on panic buttons for bodegas. He shares hilarious insights on vaping, fat kids, and the chaotic world of comedy, touching on the challenges of new comedians trying to make a name for themselves. The discussion also meanders through quirky anecdotes about celebrity culture and the contrast between childhood memories and modern media, all wrapped in his signature humor.
Adam recounts a frustrating airport experience highlighting the inefficiencies of airline staff during technology failures and strict rules.
The podcast critiques Robert De Niro's public persona decline due to personal political opinions affecting his legacy and audience perception.
Residents express concerns over noise pollution from Waymo's backup alarms, reflecting challenges of integrating technology in urban environments.
Ben Gleib discusses his upcoming live comedy show and touches on issues surrounding modern comedy and the state of new comedians.
Deep dives
The Real ID Requirement
To board domestic flights, passengers must upgrade their driver's license or state-issued ID to a REAL ID, which is necessary for traveling domestically. This upgrade aims to enhance security and is a critical step that travelers should not delay. Travelers can find information on obtaining a REAL ID by accessing the TSA's official website or visiting their local DMV. The emphasis on this requirement highlights the importance of being proactive in ensuring proper identification for air travel.
Adventure Awaits with Audible
Audible offers a wide array of thrilling audio titles that cater to various tastes, from suspenseful adventures to romantic tales. For instance, listeners can immerse themselves in Andy Weir's intense narrative of 'Project Hail Mary,' which focuses on a lone astronaut's mission to save humanity. The platform provides access to exclusive originals, anticipated new releases, and bestsellers that capture the listener's attention from the very beginning. This abundance of content emphasizes the potential for entertainment and adventure at the listener's fingertips.
Frustration at the Airport
In a humorous recounting of a frustrating airport experience, a traveler highlights the inefficiencies of airline staff when faced with technology failures. After arriving at the airport on time, the traveler encounters confusion over the kiosk check-in process, resulting in conflicting responses from the airline representative regarding the cut-off time for checking luggage. The situation escalates as the traveler attempts to explain the arithmetic of timing to a staff member who stubbornly adheres to a strict rule without considering the actual time. This absurd interaction reflects common frustrations encountered while navigating the complexities of air travel.
The Real ID Confusion
During a recent travel experience, another traveler shares a moment of panic when questioned about their REAL ID at the check-in counter. An airline staff member pointed out the need for a REAL ID, causing a brief moment of panic about potentially missing the flight. Fortunately, with a quick verification of the date, the traveler learns that they are indeed compliant, dispelling the confusion. This incident emphasizes the ongoing challenges travelers face regarding evolving identification requirements and the importance of keeping up-to-date with travel regulations.
The Downfall of Celebrity Reputations
A critique of Robert De Niro's declining public persona highlights the pitfalls of public figures voicing personal opinions outside their domain of expertise. The discussion suggests that the iconic actor's savvy image became tarnished after he began expressing political views on platforms such as 'The View,' leading to public disappointment. The observation raises questions about how much a celebrity’s opinions can influence their legacy and public perception, suggesting that public figures may be better off remaining silent on contentious topics. This shift in public persona underscores the delicate balance celebrities must navigate between their professional achievements and personal beliefs.
Concerns Over Diminishing Privacy
The ongoing scrutiny of public figures in media is reflective of a broader societal concern regarding diminishing privacy and the rise of public speculation. The spotlight on celebrities, particularly those like De Niro discussing family matters, illustrates how media narratives can shape public consciousness. The conversation further delves into issues of identity and representation within the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the complexities of gender identity and the evolving language surrounding it. This nuance in public dialogue indicates an ongoing societal challenge between respect for individual identities and the need for clarity in communication.
Frustrations with Noise Pollution
Residents near a Waymo driverless car charging station in Santa Monica voice their concerns about noise pollution caused by the vehicles' backup alarms. These complaints reflect broader frustrations related to the balance between innovative technology and quality of life in urban settings. The situation underscores the challenges of introducing new technologies in densely populated areas and the importance of addressing residents' concerns about livability. As cities adapt to include autonomous vehicles, the need for solutions to mitigate noise pollution becomes increasingly vital.
Backing Up the Back-Up Beepers
The podcast discusses the incessant beeping noise from vehicles equipped with backup alarms, which has become a common grievance among residents. Critics argue that the noise adds to the existing soundscape and disrupts daily life, particularly in neighborhoods already burdened by urban noise. The conversation emphasizes the need for greater consideration of noise pollution associated with new technology and the potential for quieter alternatives. This debate highlights the tension between progress in transportation technology and its impact on community living.
Adam and Jason “Mayhem” Miller open up the show with Adam recounting a Real ID Fiasco at a Florida airport, Variety’s strange way of phrasing the headlines concerning Robert DeNiro’s daughter coming out as Trans and local news in Santa Monica talking about WAYMO back up beepers.
Ben Gleib then comes on the show to talk about his upcoming GLEIB OFF THE TOP! Live Zoom Comedy Show, Vaping and fat kids, Rupert Holmes vs. Jimmy Buffett, Mike August not booking Ben Gleib and sneezing violently, Adam’s journey at the Groundlings, shitty improv partners and a possible moratorium on new comedians.
Adam and Jason then talk about today’s top news stories including Mayor Eric Adams spending 1.6 million on panic buttons to curb crimes, Jussie Smollett, and defunding of PBS and NPR. Get it on.
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