Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out

191. Todd Glass: The Ultimate Comic's Comic

22 snips
Nov 10, 2025
Todd Glass, a veteran stand-up comedian known for his improvisational style, shares illuminating insights from his career. He discusses how coming out transformed his comedy, allowing for deeper authenticity onstage. Todd reflects on a heart attack he experienced during a performance and the lifestyle changes that followed. The duo also chats about his innovative live show with a band, the art of storytelling, and the importance of crafting thoughtful material that avoids reinforcing bigotry. Expect laughter and inspiration galore!
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ADVICE

Use Punch Writing With Peers

  • Do punch‑writing work with other comedians to tighten wording and sharpen joke beats.
  • Todd credits collaborators like Daniel Kino for helping him refine language and add emotional depth.
ANECDOTE

Viral Heckler Takedown In Davis

  • A viral clip shows Todd confronting a rude heckler in Davis, California, by calmly winning the audience before addressing her.
  • He emphasizes fairness: heckling isn't gendered and the clip demonstrates measured, effective crowd work.
INSIGHT

Authenticity Deepens The Comedy

  • Coming out allowed Todd Glass to stop hiding parts of his life and made his stage honesty deeper.
  • He says authenticity improved his comedy and opened new material once the floodgates released.
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