Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out

Comedian Janine Harouni and Mike share experiences of surviving car accidents, connecting with parents, and incorporating vulnerability into comedy. They discuss turning trauma into humor, Janine's mob-run restaurant job, and her dad's unusual gloves. Janine's journey from recovery to comedy is highlighted, along with the importance of being authentic on stage.

Stand-up comedian Pete Holmes roasts Mike Birbiglia and they create jokes about their complex relationships with their dads. They discuss big questions like God's existence, John Mulaney's location, and Mike's childhood bullying. Candid conversations about jealousy, cheating, and writing for the school paper. Plus, they reflect on Homeboy Industries and share tour dates.

Stand-up comedian Rachel Feinstein discusses roasting her firefighter husband, absurd road stories with Kevin Hart, and never asking a comic how they felt about their show. She shares new material about God getting sober, normalizing spa days, and trying to cuddle at a scary hotel.

John August, screenwriter of Charlie’s Angels and Big Fish, shares practical advice on crafting authentic stories, compelling endings, and navigating the screenwriting industry. The conversation delves into the nuances of conflict dynamics, AI in screenwriting, and writing discipline. Special mentions of Aura Frames and Helix Sleep sponsorships, along with a spotlight on Miri's List for refugee families.

Legendary filmmaker Judd Apatow shares behind-the-scenes stories from Bridesmaids and Funny People. He discusses the filmmaking advice he's received, his first ayahuasca trip, and gaining weight on Ozempic. A funny and insightful conversation on authenticity in comedy and personal experiences in the industry.

Comedian Chris Fleming and Mike Birbiglia discuss Massachusetts repression, comedy influences, and do impressions of each other. They dive into shared roots, childhood fears, self-identity, and reflections on beliefs and the afterlife. The episode is described as one of the most unhinged Working it Out sessions.

Comedian Rory Scovel discusses the power of telling the truth and being vulnerable on stage, comparing comedy to abstract painting. He shares insights from a week of fully improvised stand-up shows, resulting in a new perspective on his career. Plus, a hilarious 'Working It Out' segment that goes off the rails.

Poet J. Hope Stein returns to discuss her creative process with husband Mike Birbiglia, sharing embarrassing stories from their romance. They explore poetry's crossover appeal, her new Earth Day poems, and the audiobook release of 'Little Astronaut.'

Chicago improv performer and teacher Liz Allen joins Mike for a chat about the roots of improv in Chicago, the influence of Del Close, and the connection between Liz and Gillian Jacobs. They explore the transformative power of improv, the dynamics of improv comedy, and the practical applications of improv beyond entertainment.

Stand-up comedian and writer Alex Edelman returns for the fourth time, sharing stories about his bank losing all his money, a protestor disrupting his show, and encountering Bill Gates. They discuss releasing his special after his director's death and explore themes of empathy, racism, and online interactions. The podcast also dives into the art of roasting in comedy culture, personal quirks, and humorous anecdotes, all while promoting sponsorships and reflecting on success and purpose in life.