Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out

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.

In this lively discussion, comedian Gary Simons, known for opening for Mike Birbiglia and performing at the Comedy Cellar, shares his journey through the stand-up world. They tackle listener questions about open mics and the fear of bombing, while providing practical advice on finding one's unique comedic voice. The importance of vulnerability in storytelling and how to connect humorously with audiences is also explored. With anecdotes about stage fright and preparing for performances, it’s a must-listen for emerging comedians!

Ben Marshall and John Higgins, talented writers and comedians from the group Please Don't Destroy, share an inside look into their escapades on Saturday Night Live. They discuss the unscripted magic of improv and reminisce about roasting Mike during his shows. The duo dives into the creative journey of their Jon Hamm pizza sketch, from pitch to air, and hilariously reflects on how their Instagram feeds reveal unexpected interests. They also touch on personal growth, the dynamics of joke-telling, and the challenges of their upcoming tour.

Ira Glass, the esteemed host and producer of This American Life, returns to share his comedic journey. He reflects on an old stand-up set, seeking Mike's insight on crafting jokes anew. Together, they discuss the art of storytelling in comedy and the balance between humor and vulnerability, particularly around health issues. They also dive into relatable anecdotes about aging audiences and the quirks of hiking. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship and supporting local radio, all while exploring what authentic laughter truly means.