The Gist T.J. Miller: You'll Do Better in Toledo
Dec 29, 2025
T.J. Miller, an actor and stand-up comedian known for his roles in film and television, shares insights from his life-changing brain surgery in 2010. He humorously reveals how a traumatic brain injury became his improvisational "cheat code" and discusses the invisible disability that resulted from it. The conversation also takes playful detours through quirky city mottos, highlights the surprisingly affordable lifestyle in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and examines how his surgery altered his emotional access and comedy style.
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You'll Do Better In Toledo
- T.J. Miller jokes Toledo's motto, "You'll do better here," positions the city as the fallback for those who can't make it elsewhere.
- He contrasts it with New York's "If you can make it here..." to highlight different civic self-images.
Fort Wayne's Surprising Economy
- T.J. Miller describes Fort Wayne's low cost of living and small social scene during his visit as culturally odd and charming.
- He recounts a local paying $485 monthly for a three-bedroom house to illustrate the city's "Bulgarian" economic feel.
The AVM And Risky Surgery
- T.J. Miller reveals he has a traumatic brain injury and had surgery for an AVM in his right frontal lobe in 2010 while filming a movie.
- He explains the surgery was risky and elective, with doctors warning of a 10% fatality rate if performed.