Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out

In this lively conversation, comedy legend Bob Odenkirk, known for his roles in SNL and Breaking Bad, dives into the interplay between anger and humor. He shares insights on balancing his transitions from comedy to dramatic roles, and even action films like Nobody. Bob discusses the challenges of authenticity in the fickle entertainment industry and reflects on personal chaos shaping creativity. He also touches on invaluable life lessons from parenthood and the importance of supporting charitable causes like Food on Foot.

Alex Edelman, an Emmy-winning comedian and writer for The Paper, returns for his fifth chat, diving into the nostalgia of being a Boston sports fan. He shares hilarious tales, including his unexpected stint as a hospital clown and the challenges of finding humor amidst grief. The conversation also touches on the potential impact of AI on comedy and reflects on his creative journey after losing a collaborator. With insights on comedy and personal anecdotes, Alex keeps the laughs rolling while pondering life’s more serious themes.

Chelsea Handler, a stand-up comic and author, shares her journey from career lows, including a major bomb at Just For Laughs, to her present success with 'The Feeling'. She reflects on the importance of sisterhood in comedy and offers humorous insights into daily rituals, like her love for coffee. Chelsea reveals a wild anecdote about unintentionally transporting cocaine and her bold confrontation with Woody Allen. The conversation also explores personal growth, resilience, and the necessity for balance in a comedian's life.

Comedic duo Jane Wickline and Liva Pierce, acclaimed for their work on Saturday Night Live and their sketch comedy, Dukes, join in for a fun chat. They share how a classic film brought them together and dive into their unique takes on adult films. Jane recounts her humorous SNL audition experience, while Liva adds insights on the challenges of sketch writing. The duo also gets creative, turning jokes into catchy songs for their touring show. Their playful banter reveals the art of collaboration and the joy of live performance.

This week, Malik Elassal, a stand-up comic and actor from FX's 'Adults,' shares his unconventional journey to comedy, including his time as a long-haul trucker. He recounts hilarious airport mix-ups with his set list and discusses the challenges of dealing with conspiracy-minded relatives and Islamophobia. Malik reflects on the importance of authenticity in comedy and how life experiences, like awkward moments at prayers, enrich his stand-up material. Expect laughs and insights into personal growth and navigating life with humor!

In a riveting conversation, Pete Docter, Chief Creative Officer at Pixar and director of beloved films like Monsters, Inc. and Up, shares his journey through animation. He opens up about the emotional depth behind iconic stories and reveals the intricate draft process Pixar employs for storytelling. Docter discusses giving and receiving creative feedback and the importance of experimentation in filmmaking. He also reflects on his experiences with legends like Steve Jobs, showcasing how passion shaped his career in animation.

Atsuko Okatsuka, a talented comedian known for her Hulu and Disney+ specials, joins her friend Mike for a lively conversation. They reminisce about their journey from comedy gigs to close friendship, sharing hilarious stories, like the time Atsuko was 'kidnapped' by her grandmother. They explore the art of transforming personal experiences into comedy, touch on the dynamics of relationships, and even delve into the whimsical concept of 'nighttime friends.' Their candid reflections on life's challenges make for insightful and entertaining listening.

Nick Kroll, a dynamic comedian and creator of Big Mouth, returns to chat with Mike about his latest projects, including the first season of Adults. They dive into the complexities of Hollywood's writer rooms and Kroll's playful jealousy of industry peers. The conversation takes a humorous turn as they reminisce about memorable experiences, including Kroll's regretful encounter with Robert De Niro. They also explore the fine line of introducing children to intense films while reflecting on the creative process in comedy and the importance of charitable contributions.

Lin-Manuel Miranda, the celebrated creator of Hamilton and In the Heights, joins for an engaging discussion on creativity and collaboration. He delves into the necessity of generating numerous ideas to craft a musical and reflects on his school play experiences. Miranda shares the origins of Hamilton, recounting some chaotic performances. They also explore the vibrant narratives found in New York's subway, highlighting the importance of diversity and shared experiences in artistic expression.

Nikki Glaser, a standout comedian known for her Emmy-nominated special 'Someday You'll Die,' returns to discuss her recent hosting gig at the Golden Globes. She shares insights into the complexities of controversial comedy and her idea for a unique 'vegan hour.' Nikki also recounts her hilarious yet awkward encounter with Lana Del Rey. Plus, Mike Birbiglia reveals details about his upcoming Netflix special, 'The Good Life,' creating an engaging blend of humor and honesty.