Hacks co-creators Paul W. Downs and Lucia Aniello, who are also husband and wife, have been performing and writing together for over a decade. Today, we discuss the road to season three of their hit HBO series. At the top, they unpack the makings of their creative partnership (8:20), how they chronicled the evolving state of comedy in Hacks (14:38), and Jerry Seinfeld’s recent comments about the medium (20:05). Then, we walk through Paul and Lucia’s origin stories (33:45), their meeting in an improv class at UCB (38:00), and the New York comedy pipeline they fell into with Broad City (46:59). On the back-half, we talk about the making of their feature film debut Rough Night (49:35), the road trip where they first imagined the premise for Hacks (53:25), their guiding principle while creating the show (59:10), and their journey into parenthood (1:05:48). To close, a piece of advice on art-making today (1:11:30). For questions, comments, or to join our mailing list, reach me at sf@talkeasypod.com. This conversation was recorded at Spotify Studios. Clips courtesy of HBO.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor, writer, and director Pamela Adlon shares her journey from child actor to 'Better Things'. She discusses her new movie, directing a comedy about reproductive rights, her creative upbringing, early voice acting, and the influence of motherhood on her career. Pamela also talks about mentoring women in the industry and her tribute to her mother.

Comedian Jerrod Carmichael discusses his personal new project, Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show, his view of the camera as a vessel for honesty, and the evolution of his comedy. He reflects on the artists who inspired his work, a formative performance in his first HBO special, and explores the central truth he hopes to convey in his series, aiming to set himself and his family free through his art.

Actor and author Nick Offerman discusses his role in 'Civil War', his upbringing in rural Illinois, his experiences in the entertainment industry, and the impactful message of his latest book. He reflects on lessons from mentors, his marriage to Megan Mullally, and the complicated legacy of Ron Swanson.

Poet Rupi Kaur discusses her international tour, childhood in Canada, processing trauma through writing, viral photo series on menstruation, emotional toll of fame, critical response, connection to heritage, understanding mother's sacrifices, and evolution of her work.

Actor Jeff Daniels discusses his roots in Michigan, early theater experiences, iconic roles in films, and his transition to New York. He reflects on his time in The Newsroom, working with Aaron Sorkin on Broadway, and shares insights on writing and his father's musical tribute.

Actor Dev Patel discusses his directorial debut 'Monkey Man,' inspired by Hindu mythology. He shares challenges faced during filming, his creative process, and experiences in Hollywood. Dev reflects on his roles in 'Skins' and 'Slumdog Millionaire,' as well as projects like 'Lion' and 'The Green Knight.' He also talks about how Jordan Peele saved 'Monkey Man' from oblivion.

Director M. Night Shyamalan discusses the challenges of screenplay writing, exploring his cinematic journey and the allure of failure. He reflects on 'Labor of Love', a script that has haunted him for 30 years, and transitions from emotional to genre storytelling. Shyamalan reveals personal reasons for rejecting projects and contemplates the evolution of perception in filmmaking.

Comedian Ramy Youssef discusses his new HBO special 'More Feelings', the third season of his show Ramy, his coming of age as an Egyptian-American, and the influences behind his work. He also talks about his television debut, finding his essence as a performer, and the future of the series.

Pushkin hosts celebrate World Happiness Day with Malcolm Gladwell discussing running in a Canadian winter, Dr. Maya Shankar on quieting mental chatter, and Tim Harford sharing happiness lessons from a colonoscopy.