Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out

Hasan Minhaj, a comedian and actor celebrated for his Netflix specials and work on 'The Daily Show,' makes a third appearance. He and Mike delve into hilarious memories of childhood crushes and athletic rivalries from school. They explore how comedy mirrors political cycles and the craft of joke escalation. Hasan shares anecdotes about his creative process, humor in crowd work, and unexpected incidents, all while keeping the laughs coming. Their camaraderie shines through as they reminisce about the past and discuss the nuances of storytelling in comedy.

Ben Stiller, a dynamic actor and director known for iconic films like 'Zoolander,' teams up with Adam Scott, famed for his roles in 'Parks and Recreation' and 'Severance.' They delve into the creative synergy that fuels their work on 'Severance,' sharing audition tips and how personal experiences have shaped their artistic choices. The trio reminisces about their early careers, discussing the balance of fame and identity, and the importance of genuine connections. Expect laughs as they unpack the art of directing and the power of empathy in performance.

Join a lively exploration of the struggle and joy within show business, as Matt Rogers shares his insights from writing for a hit TV series and auditioning for SNL. The significance of fun in the creative process shines through, paired with heartfelt reflections on friendships and industry challenges. A humorous debate on pop icons like Taylor Swift versus Michael Jackson adds a cultural twist. Plus, the hilarity of late-night cravings and the emotional depth of vulnerability and personal narratives brings a delightful mix of humor and introspection.

Stephen Colbert, renowned comedian and host, shares his comedic journey and invaluable lessons from legends like David Letterman and Mike Nichols. He reflects on the nuances of live performance versus television, emphasizing the importance of genuine dialogue and emotional connections with audiences. Colbert also candidly reveals what makes him cry and recounts memorable encounters with figures like George Lucas and the Pope. With humor and warmth, he highlights the beauty of improvisation and the significance of supporting charitable causes.

Rachel Feinstein, a vibrant comedian known for her Netflix special 'Big Guy,' returns to share her unique comedic insights. She hilariously reveals why her firefighter husband embraces her roast jokes and his quirky pronunciation of 'cash.' The conversation takes a wild turn as she recounts a chaotic road story involving Kevin Hart. Rachel also delves into new material about God getting sober and her funny experiences cuddling with a boyfriend at a spooky hotel. Plus, she advocates for supporting firefighters and their families.

David Sedaris, acclaimed author and humorist known for his witty autobiographical essays, returns for a lively chat. He and Mike delve into the blurry lines of truth in storytelling and the challenges of fact-checking humor at places like The New Yorker. David shares entertaining anecdotes, including an amusing encounter with Pope Francis. The duo also engages in a hilariously tricky game of F**k, Marry, Kill with Sedaris’ own works, while casually exploring the nuances of authenticity in creative writing and their thoughts on charitable giving.

Joining Mike is Pete Holmes, a comedian and actor renowned for his podcast "You Made It Weird" and his role in "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." They dive into the world of Christmas movies, celebrating favorites like 'Elf' while critiquing 'Gremlins' for its confusing plot. Their playful debate even settles whether 'Die Hard' qualifies as a holiday film, and they analyze 'Love Actually,' discussing its mixed reviews. Personal anecdotes from their holiday experiences add a charming touch to this festive banter.

Fortune Feimster, a talented comedian and writer known for her Netflix special 'Crushing It,' joins for a lively discussion. She shares her journey of authenticity and how personal stories shape her comedy. Topics include dealing with audience feedback and her experiences coming out. Fortune humorously reflects on a honeymoon in the Maldives and delves into the complexities of relationships, wealth perception, and femininity in comedy. The conversation blends laughter with insights while emphasizing the importance of empowerment.

Seth Meyers, a renowned comedian and writer famous for his work on SNL and hosting "Late Night with Seth Meyers," joins Mike for a lively discussion. They reveal behind-the-scenes secrets of SNL, including who the funniest cast members are and speculate on Lorne Michaels' successor. The conversation takes a darkly humorous turn with topics like serial killers and D.A.R.E, while also exploring the pressures of transitioning roles in comedy. Personal anecdotes, celebrity encounters, and the dynamics of friendship add charm to their engaging dialogue.

Maria Bamford, a comedian and actress celebrated for her unique and dark humor, joins Mike to explore the essence of stand-up comedy. They dive into the importance of true confessions in comedy and the challenges of financial stability in the profession. Bamford reveals her unconventional training tactics, like testing new material in coffee shops with strangers. She also shares her childhood wish to be called 'Blueberry' and provides a hilarious impression of Esther Perel, underscoring her creativity in blending humor with personal experiences.