Michael Ira Kaplan
Comedian and long-time contributor to the show who also works in real estate; served as the humor-centrist moderator in the episode's debate about performing in Saudi Arabia.
Best podcasts with Michael Ira Kaplan
Ranked by the Snipd community
Oct 16, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Ethics of Performing for Dictators
Turner Sparks, a stand-up comedian known for his sharp wit, and Michael Ira Kaplan, a seasoned comic and real estate expert, dive into the ethical dilemmas surrounding performances in authoritarian regimes. They tackle the Riyadh Comedy Festival controversy, debating whether comedy can promote liberal ideas despite heavy restrictions. Sparks argues against accepting gigs that may endorse oppressive governments, while Kaplan explores the role of personal ethics and the challenges comedians face when tailoring their sets under censorship.
May 1, 2024 • 1h 19min
College Campuses Are So Very Very Passionate (WSPN)
Andrew Heaton, Dr. Andrea Jones-Rooy, and Michael Ira Kaplan discuss the heated protests over Israel and Hamas on college campuses, emphasizing evolving activism, free speech complexities, shifting political affiliations, financial complexities, and humorous banter on campus security incidents.
