Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out

Natalie Palamides, a trailblazer in avant-garde physical comedy and creator of standout shows like Laid and Nate, shares insights into her unique craft. She explores the stark contrast between birthday and theatrical clowns, highlighting the essence of vulnerability in comedy. Natalie reflects on her personal fears and the challenges of performing risky crowd work, including some wild wrestling tales. With a mix of humor and thoughtful critique, she dives into the physicality of her performances and the imaginative use of props that bring her characters to life.

Michael Che, a stand-up comedian and co-anchor of Weekend Update on Saturday Night Live, dives deep into his journey from street t-shirt sales to the iconic SNL stage. Che shares unforgettable advice from Lorne Michaels about trusting his instincts and discusses the challenges of crafting jokes for live audiences. He reveals a funny incident involving Colin Jost and reflects on the exhausting yet rewarding nature of SNL. Che also offers insight into his early life, anxiety in comedy, and the importance of stage time for aspiring comics.

Arthur Brooks, a behavioral scientist and bestselling author known for his work on happiness, joins the conversation. They delve into the neuroscience behind comedy and laughter, emphasizing that most laughter is social, not just humorous. Arthur shares insights on the importance of gratitude practices, how comedians test their material, and the impact of aging on humor. He also discusses strategies for optimizing creativity, including effective morning routines and the significance of leaving work unfinished for momentum. Their exploration unveils the intricate relationship between joy, productivity, and emotional well-being.

In this engaging episode, comedian and podcaster Pete Holmes returns to team up with Mike Birbiglia. They hilariously dissect a hot tub encounter with a joke-craving stranger and riff on how iconic comics fit their own names. The duo reflects on the intriguing trope of cool movie characters swallowing pills dry, connecting vulnerability to performance. They also tackle topics like competition and identity, share an awkward Toronto massage story, and lighten AI anxiety with a dose of humor. A rich comedic exchange filled with insights and laughter!

Vir Das, a renowned comedian, actor, and author, returns to share insights from his memoir, The Outsider. He discusses losing his voice weeks before major shows and his journey of vocal recovery. The conversation explores his two live formats, The Sounds of India and storytelling at Lincoln Center. Vir reflects on balancing his Bollywood career with authentic stand-up. He also sheds light on the importance of storytelling, the impact of the pandemic on relationships, and the evolving nature of feedback in comedy.

Stand-up comedian Leanne Morgan joins the conversation, sharing her journey from selling jewelry door-to-door to finding her voice in comedy. She reflects on her Southern upbringing, rich with beauty shop gossip that spices up her material. Leanne discusses balancing motherhood with her comedy career and the pressures of aging in the industry. With a humorous twist, she recounts a wild anecdote about being picked up by George W. Bush, and shares her thoughts on clean comedy and its audience reception. A delightful mix of honest storytelling and laughter!

Todd Glass, a veteran stand-up comedian known for his improvisational style, shares illuminating insights from his career. He discusses how coming out transformed his comedy, allowing for deeper authenticity onstage. Todd reflects on a heart attack he experienced during a performance and the lifestyle changes that followed. The duo also chats about his innovative live show with a band, the art of storytelling, and the importance of crafting thoughtful material that avoids reinforcing bigotry. Expect laughter and inspiration galore!

In this engaging discussion, poet J. Hope Stein, known for her works like Little Astronaut, reads original poems that spark hilarity and introspection. They delve into the fine line between Mike’s podcast persona and real-life self. J. Hope shares her unique views on artistic feedback and the magic of live poetry. They explore the challenges of writing for film and the influence of marriage on their creative processes. Expect wit, warmth, and a delightful live call with comedian Pete Holmes!

Nick Offerman, beloved actor and master woodworker, dives into his latest projects, including the film Sovereign and his book Little Woodchucks. He reflects on his journey from a hands-on childhood to discovering theater and acting in Chicago. Offerman shares why he values craftsmanship over screen time and explores the differences in preparing for drama versus comedy. With a nod to his time on Parks and Recreation, he highlights the importance of persistence in the arts while celebrating creativity and friendship.

Caleb Hearon, a stand-up comedian and podcaster known for his HBO special, delves into the transformative power of improv and how it saved his life during tough times. He candidly shares his struggles with suicidal thoughts and the impact of losing his estranged father on his comedy. The conversation also highlights his journey from SNL auditions to a successful career, the importance of live stand-up, and the balance between ambition and mental health. Plus, Caleb dreams of off-grid living with Mike amidst comedic insights.