Good One: A Podcast About Jokes

Caleb Hearon, a standout stand-up comedian and podcaster, dives into his HBO Max special 'Model Comedian' and shares his unconventional journey. He explains how not getting on SNL became a pivotal moment in his career, granting him creative freedom. Caleb also discusses the nuances of crafting jokes, from personal grief to online character work, and reflects on the balancing act between humor and authenticity. With insights into his podcast and the evolving creator landscape, he emphasizes community building on tour and maintaining joy in comedy.

Gianmarco Soresi, a stand-up comedian and writer known for his special 'Thief of Joy', dives into the complexities of audience dynamics and the challenges of sharing dark comedy. He discusses the role of social media in building a fanbase, emphasizing the importance of context in crowd work. Gianmarco also explores the delicate balance of discussing sensitive topics like suicide in comedy, and shares insights on adapting traditional performance for online platforms. His journey from acting to a self-funded comedy career illustrates the evolving landscape for comedians today.

Amber Ruffin, a talented comedian and writer celebrated for her work on Late Night with Seth Meyers, brings her vibrant energy to the conversation. She hilariously recounts her time on Detroiters and shares the joys of her improv experiences in Amsterdam. Amber discusses how she turns today's political chaos into humor, reflecting on her contributions to Have I Got News for You and the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Her engaging anecdotes about musical bits and the connections formed in the writer's room underscore her unique comedic legacy.

Join John C. Reilly, acclaimed actor and cabaret performer, as he shares his thoughts on the interplay of comedy and music in storytelling. He discusses his character Mister Romantic and the emotional depth behind performances. The conversation highlights the importance of connection and authenticity in comedy, advocating for a balanced approach in a cynical world. Reilly reflects on his collaboration with Paul Thomas Anderson and the lasting influence of comedy legends, emphasizing the need for kindness and genuine expression in the art form.

BenDeLaCreme, a renowned drag queen and comedian known for her appearances on RuPaul's Drag Race, shares her thoughts on the evolution of drag from counterculture to mainstream. She discusses the impact of shows like the Snatch Game on drag artistry, the significance of authenticity within the community, and her collaboration with Jinkx Monsoon. The conversation also explores the connection between drag performance and personal identity, while reflecting on humor's role in navigating stress and anxiety. Delve into the joyful complexities of modern drag culture!

Jinkx Monsoon, a renowned drag queen and star of 'Oh, Mary!' on Broadway, joins the conversation to share her experiences in the entertainment industry. She amusingly recounts encounters with celebrities like Katy Perry and Charlie Day while exploring how drag has evolved. Jinkx reveals her aspirations to portray Mystique in the MCU, emphasizing the personal connections to the character. The discussion also touches on the supportive nature of theater collaborations versus the competitiveness of film, blending humor with insightful reflections on identity and performance.

In this chat, Ralph Barbosa, a rising comedian known for his viral content and Hulu special, shares his journey from creating jokes about immigration to navigating the complex world of political humor. He candidly discusses his health scare and the emotional weight of losing a friend, revealing how these experiences shape his comedy. Barbosa also reflects on his influences, his encounters with comedy legends like Adam Sandler, and the challenges of bilingual performances, all while keeping the conversation light-hearted and engaging.

Ben Stiller, the iconic comedy superstar known for roles in Zoolander and Tropic Thunder, discusses his dynamic transition to directing with Severance. He reveals intriguing insights about the series' unique tone, mixing dark humor with emotional depth. Stiller also teases his anticipation for Happy Gilmore 2, reflecting on the complexities of evolving comedy. He compares the creative processes behind Severance and other films, sharing personal anecdotes and the challenges of character development while balancing an office setting with innovative filming techniques.

Comedian Bill Burr, known for his sharp wit and roles in shows like F Is for Family, shares insights from his journey in comedy. He discusses the evolution of his style, the impact of fatherhood, and his experiences with the politics of comedy. Burr candidly reflects on his regrets about certain jokes and the transformative power of psychedelics in personal growth. He also touches on his notable Broadway experience and the influence of legendary comedians like Dave Attell, infusing humor into deeper discussions about life and performance.

Mark Maron, a renowned stand-up comedian and host of the WTF podcast, discusses the light-hearted chaos of a vet trip with his cat, Sam, while reflecting on the emotional journey of creating his comedy special. He dives into the complexities of humor in sensitive contexts, especially regarding controversial figures, and shares his views on navigating grief in performance. Maron also explores the balance between recognition and authenticity in comedy, tackling the burdens of genius and the reality of comedic failures.