Good One: A Podcast About Jokes

Michelle Buteau, a comedian and actress celebrated for her Netflix special 'A Buteau-ful Mind', shares her journey from various venues to Radio City Music Hall. She emphasizes the power of representation in comedy and the importance of authenticity. Through lively anecdotes, she discusses how dance serves as self-expression and healing. Buteau reflects on navigating friendships and the complexities of connection while invoking nostalgia with her personal 'Mount Rushmore' of comedy icons. Her insights underline the transformative power of laughter.

Jason Segel, the multifaceted actor known for roles in 'How I Met Your Mother' and 'Shrinking', shares his comedic journey with Jesse David Fox. He discusses the delicate balance between humor and trauma in his work, including a hilariously awkward breakup scene and his ongoing dream of a Dracula puppet musical. Segel reflects on aging in comedy and the emotional nuances of his characters. With insights into the Hollywood creative process and the challenges of vulnerability, he illustrates the evolution of his artistic authenticity.

Seth Meyers, the current host of 'Late Night' and former SNL head writer, shares his insights on juggling multiple roles in comedy. He discusses the evolving landscape of late-night television and the camaraderie among hosts. Seth reflects on the balance between humor and serious topics in comedy, influenced by personal experiences like parenthood. He reminisces about the 'Anne Golden Era' of SNL and debates the ultimate SNL Mount Rushmore. With candid anecdotes about nerves and stage failures, he reveals the lighter side of the comedic journey.

Join a lively discussion featuring Rekha Shankar, host of Smarty Pants, Vic Michaelis, a D&D enthusiast, Jordan Myrick from Gastronauts, Jacob Wysocki, and writer Bethy Squires. They dive into the whimsical format of 'Panel Changer,' where hilarity ensues every ten minutes. Expect playful debates on pop culture, insightful reflections on authenticity in performance, and a fun 'Simon Says' game with the audience. They blend humor with deeper themes of identity, exploration, and the uniqueness of the comedy scene.

Join comedian Julio Torres, known for his vibrant work on SNL and 'Los Espookis,' as he explores the colorful tapestry of life and art. Julio shares hilarious tales of the airline class divide while examining the significance of iridescent self-presentation. He delves into how color shapes identity and creativity, particularly in his projects. From goth aesthetics in character design to whimsical storytelling in horror, Julio celebrates the transformative power of color in both comedy and personal expression.

Justin Noble, the co-creator of the hit series The Sex Lives of College Girls, joins cast member Aaliyah Chanelle Scott for a cozy brunch chat. They dive into character growth, discussing how personal experiences shape college life and friendships. The conversation also touches on the bittersweet farewells of beloved characters, offering insights into maintaining authenticity in storytelling. Plus, there's a fun brainstorm about a potential musical episode that celebrates the cast's hidden talents and comedic charm!

Kristen Wiig, famed for her roles in "Saturday Night Live" and "Bridesmaids," reunites with her co-star Bill Hader, known for his stunning performances in "Barry" and "SNL." This heartfelt chat reflects on their shared journey over the past ten years since "The Skeleton Twins." They share hilarious anecdotes about their comedic chemistry and the joys of improvisation. Highlights include behind-the-scenes stories from their time on SNL, the emotional impact of a memorable lip-sync scene, and the bonds forged through creativity and friendship.

Kevin Smith, the iconic director behind classics like 'Clerks' and 'Dogma,' takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane. He candidly shares his evolving relationship with faith, shaped by childhood experiences and filmmaking. Expect laugh-out-loud stories about the casting of notable actors, including the challenges of portraying divine humor. Smith also reflects on the impact of 'Dogma' and the excitement of potential sequels while offering intriguing insights into his creative process and the trials of Hollywood, complete with memorable anecdotes.

Quinta Brunson, creator and star of Abbott Elementary, shines alongside her talented writing team as they celebrate their Roomie Award for collaborative excellence. TV critic Roxana Haddadi expertly moderates a lively discussion. The team shares fascinating insights on the unique process of simultaneous production in television, revealing behind-the-scenes chaos from their Halloween special. They also navigate challenges like child actors' illnesses while maintaining humor, highlighting the delicate balance of storytelling and character development. Exciting plans for future crossover collaborations are teased!

Kathryn VanArendonk, a critic at Vulture.com, joins to discuss the standout comedy specials of 2024. They dissect Ali Wong's emotional depth in 'Single Lady' and explore Rami Youssef's blend of personal storytelling with societal issues. The conversation touches on audience interaction, the evolution of comedic personas, and the need for varied emotional content in comedy. They also reflect on Anthony Jeselnik's edgy style and the unique artistry in creating engaging narratives, revealing the intricate balance between humor and authenticity.