Bobby Lee feels that the inspirational payoff in movies like "Rudy" isn't strong enough, questioning if his own journey from a "drug addict" to a comedy superstar was similarly predictable. He likens his own improbable rise to that of a sports underdog, suggesting his success was equally unlikely.
Bobby Lee's Digestive Distress
Bobby Lee recounts an urgent need to use the restroom shortly after eating at a Korean barbecue restaurant, comparing the experience to Niagara Falls and Pompeii. He also shares an anecdote about his friend Andrea Jin experiencing a similar situation, highlighting the importance of timely restroom breaks.
Andrew Santino on 'The Social Network'
Andrew Santino expresses his admiration for 'The Social Network,' praising its tight script and direction by Aaron Sorkin and David Fincher. He recalls an audition experience with Sorkin, highlighting the writer's strict adherence to dialogue, which made him nervous.
Bobby Lee is concerned about his housekeeper leaving for three months and is seeking a replacement, questioning if Andrew Santino's friend, Mone, would be a suitable and reliable cleaner, while Andrew expresses skepticism about Mone's commitment and Bobby's own cleaning abilities. The discussion highlights the difficulty in finding trustworthy help and the differing standards of cleanliness.
Movie Review: 'Obsession'
Bobby Lee and Andrew Santino discuss the movie 'Obsession,' with both expressing disappointment. They critique its premise, lack of compelling twists, and question the justification for the characters' actions, suggesting alternative phrasing for key plot points.
Bobby Lee's Comedy Store Story
Bobby Lee explains why he missed a scheduled performance at The Comedy Store, citing a need for a break and family commitments. He recounts a friend's reminder about the prior commitment, leading to a discussion about scheduling and expectations.
The podcast begins with a heartfelt tribute to their friend Oliver Tree, who recently passed away. The hosts express their deep sadness and love for him, acknowledging his significant presence in their lives and stating he will forever be a 'bad friend.'
The Simulation Hypothesis
Eric Andre shares experiences that lead him to believe we might be living in a simulation. He recounts two instances: one where he encountered the same couple in different cities within a short period, and another where he witnessed people dancing in a car with no music playing, suggesting programmed or synchronized behavior.
Sponsorship Plug: Klarna
The hosts promote Klarna, highlighting its flexibility with payment options like 'pay now, later, or over time.' They emphasize Klarna's transparency and control, contrasting it with potential 'bait and switch' tactics from other apps, and suggest it's a way to combat 'shrinkflation' by only buying desired items.
The first game, 'Good Head,' required contestants Bert Kreischer and Eric Andre to identify six famous bald heads from photos. Despite the seemingly simple nature of the game, neither contestant scored any points, highlighting a humorous disconnect between their knowledge and the visual cues provided.
Ted Bundy Trivia and Bobby's Relationship Inquiry
The 'Cheat Day' game featured a question about Ted Bundy's last meal, which Eric Andre correctly answered, solidifying his lead. This was followed by Bobby Lee's intense questioning of Bert Kreischer about his new girlfriend, creating a tense, personal dynamic that felt out of place for a game show but added to the show's chaotic charm.
Host-Guest Dynamic and 'Mad TV' Egos
The episode concludes with a heated exchange between Bobby Lee and Bert Kreischer, stemming from past grievances related to 'Mad TV' and perceived ego issues. This personal conflict, characterized by accusations of gaslighting and physical intimidation, underscores the raw, unfiltered nature of the show's interactions.
Bobby Lee recently got glasses for the first time and was astonished by how much his vision improved, allowing him to see details like roller coasters and trees that were previously just blurs. This newfound clarity has made him feel more empowered and aware of his surroundings.
Late Night's Fading Relevance
Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee discuss the declining relevance of traditional late-night talk shows, suggesting that younger audiences prefer short-form content like TikTok clips over full episodes. They note that even dedicated fans like Bill Maher are now consuming content through podcasts or clips rather than live broadcasts.
The 'Obsession' Phenomenon
Andrew Santino and Carlos discuss the indie horror film 'Obsession,' highlighting its unexpected success with a budget under $1 million and its projected worldwide gross of $75-80 million. They praise the film's quality and the distributor Blumhouse's consistent track record of producing hit films like 'Get Out,' which also had a modest budget.
After a successful performance in Toronto, Carlos declared, 'I feel like Robin Williams,' a statement Bobby Lee and Andrew Santino found absurd and egotistical, using it as a prime example of his perceived overconfidence.
Backstage Boundary Breach
Carlos allowed the two unknown individuals into Bobby's green room and backstage area without clearance, a breach of protocol that Bobby views as a serious lapse in security and tour management.
Comedy Performance Pressure: The Carlos Herrera Challenge
The hosts discuss the intense pressure of live comedy performances, specifically challenging guest Carlos Herrera to perform for 12 minutes without any 'god mic' introduction or music, a stark contrast to the usual hype. Bobby Lee expresses doubt about Carlos's ability to perform cold, comparing it to the effortless brilliance of Robin Williams. They debate the merits of different performance styles and the psychological impact of audience expectation versus a raw, unassisted stage presence. The challenge is framed as a test of true comedic talent, pushing beyond reliance on external aids. The segment ends with anticipation for Carlos's upcoming performance.
Bobby Lee recounts his eye exam experience, discovering he needs prescription glasses for distance vision. He plans to get custom lenses for his existing frames, expressing excitement about seeing in 'high definition' for the first time. This leads to a humorous discussion about the invention of glasses and his personal style.
The 'Hantavirus' Scare
A discussion erupts about a virus, possibly Hantavirus, with a high mortality rate and long incubation period. They explain potential transmission routes from rats and human-to-human contact, particularly on cruise ships. The conversation touches on the fear of unknown illnesses and the role of personal behavior in preventing spread.
Bobby Lee: The Economic Recession Debate
Bobby Lee argues that a recession is necessary for the economy to 'go back up,' stating, 'We must recede before we proceed.' He believes that avoiding a recession would lead to a depression. This perspective is presented as a cyclical economic necessity, contrasting with the general desire to avoid economic downturns.
The Netflix comedy festival event involved a chaotic photo opportunity where comedians, eager for attention, jostled for position, with some like Tom Segura strategically blocking other faces, while others, like Andrew Santino, felt anxious and out of place.
The Elusive Dave Chappelle Afterparty
After their own show, Bobby Lee received an invite to a Dave Chappelle afterparty, but initially ended up at a decoy event for agents before successfully navigating to the real party, which featured an impromptu performance by Kanye West.
Thrill-Seeking Preferences: Magic Mountain vs. Skydiving
The hosts debate the choice between visiting Magic Mountain and skydiving, with Bobby Lee expressing a strong preference for Magic Mountain due to its perceived safety compared to skydiving. Andrew Santino initially suggests skydiving might be safer, but Bobby counters with statistics on Magic Mountain's low fatality rate versus skydiving accidents, ultimately concluding Magic Mountain is the safer, more enjoyable option.
Andrew Santino orchestrated a prank on his friend Carlos during a flight by having him pretend to have a connection to get off the plane faster, which led to Carlos being called out by the flight attendants. Santino also recounted how he inadvertently made his opener, Cat, cry during dinner by bringing up sensitive topics, though he later apologized.
Food Ethics: Lamb Neck and Beyond
Jake Shane expresses his aversion to eating lamb neck after realizing lambs are baby sheep, extending this to a general reluctance to eat 'baby' animals like veal. This leads to a discussion about duck and other meats, with Shane stating a preference for leaner, less gamey options, while Bobby Lee recalls eating wild boar sausage.
ZBiotics: The Pre-Alcohol Probiotic
ZBiotics is a pre-alcohol probiotic designed to break down alcohol byproducts, mitigating the negative effects of drinking and improving the next day's well-being. It's presented as a way to enjoy drinks responsibly and feel better tomorrow.
Andrew Santino humorously recounts his recent colonoscopy, joking about finding a fingernail and 'a little bit of AIDS' in his system, emphasizing the procedure's success with 'zero polyps.' He uses this personal medical experience as a comedic bit, contrasting it with the general chaos of festivals.
Lee's Coachella Observations
Bobby Lee also attended Coachella with Carlos Herrera, receiving artist passes. He observed the 'Manson girls' in the VIP area and noted the presence of wealthy investors. Lee found the experience generally unenjoyable, particularly the loud EDM music near the 'Nou' restaurant, which he described as eating sushi in an earthquake.
Navy Seal vs. Beached Seal
Bobby Lee jokingly compares himself to a Navy SEAL due to his liking for excitement and danger, a comparison Andrew Santino vehemently refutes, calling him a 'beached seal' who is not physically capable or mentally aligned with the rigorous demands of special forces. This leads to a humorous debate about their respective 'training' and water capabilities.
Bobby Lee is attempting to curate a list of essential Western films for his Filipino housemates, who have limited exposure to them. He's concerned about their preference for fast-paced action over slow-burn narratives, which influences his selection process. The challenge lies in finding movies that are both engaging and culturally accessible to them. Bobby Lee is trying to expose them to classics like 'Exorcist' and 'Mad Max Fury Road', but notes their potential aversion to slower pacing, making films like 'The Godfather' a risky choice. He aims for 'evergreen' movies that have broad appeal and timeless quality. Bobby Lee is trying to find movies that will resonate with his Filipino housemates.
Andrew Santino's Movie List & Debate
Andrew Santino contributes his own movie recommendations, including Wes Anderson films like 'Rushmore' and 'Bottle Rocket', and action classics like 'Speed' and 'Die Hard'. He expresses a preference for 'Bottle Rocket' as a top Wes Anderson film. Santino also engages in a debate about whether sequels can surpass originals, mentioning 'Terminator 2' and 'The Godfather Part II'. He highlights the emotional impact of Bruce Willis's declining health on appreciating his past work, particularly in films like 'Die Hard'. Andrew Santino is curating a list of films that balance artistic merit with potential audience appeal, while also acknowledging the legacy of actors.
Pete Holmes: The Lord Farquaad Opener
Pete Holmes recounts a successful bar pickup attempt where he used a 'Lord Farquaad' reference from Shrek to break the ice with two women, one of whom identified as lesbian. The interaction led to laughter and a positive reception, highlighting the effectiveness of self-deprecating humor.
Mo's friends discuss his autistic traits, explaining that his actions, like sending the audition clip, may stem from a lack of awareness of social cues rather than intentional malice. They emphasize that he doesn't always realize when his behavior might hurt others' feelings, framing it as a difference in processing rather than a character flaw.
Netflix Festival Ticket Sales Woes
The hosts, Bobby Lee and Andrew Santino, are promoting their upcoming appearance at the Netflix is a Joke Festival at the YouTube Theater on May 8th. They express concern over low ticket sales, revealing that the event is currently under 40% capacity, and compare their billing unfavorably to other comedians on the lineup. They vow to 'pump it up' to increase sales.
Andrew Santino's Resentment and 'Family Squabble'
Andrew Santino expresses resentment stemming from a perceived lack of inclusion and Bobby Lee's actions, framing the situation as a 'family squabble.' He feels he receives the 'double' aggression from the team because they are 'petrified' of Bobby, the 'alpha.' Bobby apologizes for his actions and states he will no longer go out of his way for the team, leading to a mutual sense of relief.
Bobby Lee describes an uncomfortable Uber ride with a chatty driver who was a fan but also overly inquisitive, leading to an awkward conversation about Pakistan and religion. Lee felt pressured to engage with topics he wasn't comfortable with.
The 'Good Boy' and Vaping Confession
Andrew Santino confronts Bobby Lee about vaping weed, which Lee initially downplayed. Santino points out Lee's hypocrisy, as Lee himself had previously stated vaping was worse than smoking joints, revealing a lapse in honesty and a struggle with substance use.
The 'Ren and Stimpy' Paranoia
Bobby Lee identifies with the paranoid and delusional character Ren from 'Ren & Stimpy,' seeing parallels in his own personality. This self-awareness, however, is juxtaposed with his past unmanageable drug use in Mexico.
Brad Williams recounts his recent comedy set in Lincoln, California, detailing how he felt he had a great set with two significant laughs, despite initially downplaying it. He also mentions being heavily intoxicated from just one drink, which he attributes to Bobby Lee pouring him a full glass of whiskey.
Andrew Santino's Doomsday Prepping
Andrew Santino expresses a fear of the world ending, leading him to stock up on 5,000 bottles of Smartwater and plan to convert his backyard turf into a garden with 'American soil' and 'American seeds.' He intends to grow vegetables and fruits, including chickpeas, and jokes about not growing 'hummus' or 'hot dogs.' This stems from a general anxiety about global events and resource depletion.
Brad Williams: Orcas are Apex Predators, Not Human Predators
Despite their fearsome reputation as apex predators, orcas have no documented cases of killing humans in the wild. The hosts and guest discuss this surprising fact, contrasting it with the dangers posed by other animals like polar bears and dogs.
Andrew Santino recounts an awkward encounter with Bobby Lee at the Comedy Store after his set, where Lee gave him a slow clap, which Santino interpreted as condescending. This led to a brief, tense exchange in the parking lot about their 'business partnership' and friendship.
Wedding Performance Request
Andrew Santino reveals receiving an unusual request for him and Bobby Lee to perform at a wedding, which he immediately rejected. The absurdity of the request, especially if it were for the royal family, sparks a humorous discussion about the boundaries of comedic performance and personal events.
The 'One Minute Rule' in Comedy
Bobby Lee explains his 'one minute rule' for introducing other comedians, where he intentionally delays their stage entrance for a minute after their name is called, creating awkward anticipation. This bit, which he used on Ramsey Badawi, is seen as a challenging but potentially effective way to test a performer's resilience.
A guest, Carlos, tells Bobby Lee that Fancy is the true star of the show, calling him the 'best middleman' and the 'adhesive' that holds the podcast together. This perspective elevates Fancy's role beyond a mere associate, suggesting his presence is integral to the show's success and dynamic.
Taco Bell's Culinary Identity
Fancy questions Taco Bell's Spanish origins, leading to a discussion about the meaning of 'chalupa' and the brand's identity. Bobby Lee defends Taco Bell, while Fancy remains skeptical, ultimately finding the chicken bacon chalupa to be good, though not authentically Spanish.
Fancy's Birthday Celebration
The episode begins with a birthday celebration for Fancy. The hosts and guests acknowledge Fancy's birthday, and Rudy and Issa present a song they wrote and rehearsed for him. They also gift him a toy Cybertruck, which Bobby humorously notes cost $4.95.
NBA Player Lifestyle: Travel, Boredom, and Camaraderie
Blake Griffin provides an inside look into the professional basketball lifestyle, detailing the realities of team travel on private planes, the prevalence of video games among players to combat boredom, and the dynamics of team camaraderie, including how rookies are treated. He contrasts this with the strict rules and fines associated with missing flights or being late, painting a picture of a unique, demanding, yet privileged existence.
Blake Griffin's Iconic Dunk and its Aftermath
The conversation revisits Blake Griffin's infamous dunk over Timothy Mozgov, with the hosts and Griffin himself dissecting the play. Griffin explains his intent was partly to protect himself, but acknowledges the sheer dominance and embarrassment of the dunk, while Mozgov's reaction and their subsequent interactions are touched upon, framing it as a moment of athletic spectacle and sportsmanship.
Serviceable Special
Bobby Lee describes his new comedy special as 'serviceable,' a term he finds fitting for his functional but not necessarily attractive style. He contemplates whether he will create another special, suggesting a shift in the stand-up landscape due to AI.
The hosts engage in a humorous, albeit stereotypical, discussion about what constitutes a 'gay' versus 'straight' breakfast. They label cereals like Froot Loops as 'gay' and plain oatmeal or Cheerios as 'straight,' reflecting on their own perceived lack of 'straight' breakfast options.
Rudy's Bullying Behavior
Andrew and Bobby discuss Rudy's tendency to be overly critical and aggressive, particularly towards Bobby, describing her as a 'bully.' They cite instances like her yelling about spilled sanitizer and snoring, suggesting her confidence increases when her sister is around.
Santino: The "Game of Thrones" Spoiler Dilemma
Andrew Santino expresses frustration with spoilers, likening the experience of watching 'Game of Thrones' to a repetitive plot reveal, and questions the extent to which George R.R. Martin is involved in the show's screenplay adaptation.
Andrew Santino felt Bobby Lee was being uncomfortably close and initiated an unwanted hug upon arrival, leading to an awkward interaction where Santino expressed his dislike for such moments.
Mone's Car Closet
Bobby Lee describes his friend Mone's car as being overflowing with clothes, suggesting he keeps his entire closet in his vehicle, leading to speculation about whether he's on the run.
Ghetto vs. Upper-Class Spanish Surnames
The hosts humorously categorize Spanish surnames, debating which ones sound 'ghetto' versus 'upper class,' using examples like Torres, Garcia, and Rosende.
Theo Von discusses his life in Nashville, noting its growth and how it feels like a big city, contrasting it with his past experiences. He expresses a desire to visit more often but doesn't see himself moving back permanently.
The Invention of Kimchi and Orange Chicken
Rimbo and Theo Von discuss the origins of kimchi, with Theo Von humorously imagining himself as the 'Kimchi Cowboy' who accidentally invented it. They then transition to Andy Kao's creation of orange chicken for Panda Express.
Bobby Lee's Comedy Special and Filming Locations
Bobby Lee discusses his upcoming comedy special, mentioning that he is re-shooting it for a better outcome. He considers Eerie, Pennsylvania, and Jacksonville as potential filming locations, highlighting the challenges of choosing the right venue.
Andrew Santino recounts how Catherine O'Hara attended one of his improv shows, but left immediately after his performance without meeting him. He expresses both disappointment at missing the opportunity to meet one of his favorite actresses and gratitude that she enjoyed his performance. This anecdote underscores the unpredictable nature of celebrity encounters.
Epstein's Comedy Lineup
Andrew Santino shares a story about a friend who attended a David Tell taping at the Comedy Cellar and discovered that Jeffrey Epstein had emailed his associates a list of the comedians performing that night. The list included names like Big Jay Oakerson, leading to speculation about Epstein's connections within the comedy scene. This revelation adds a layer of unease to the already disturbing Epstein saga.
Bobby Lee on Bubbles' Trauma
Bobby Lee speculates on the trauma Bubbles, Michael Jackson's chimpanzee, may have experienced while living at Neverland Ranch, suggesting this trauma led to Bubbles losing his hair. He expresses sympathy for Bubbles, now residing at the Center for Great Apes in Florida, noting his improved well-being. This reflection underscores the potential impact of environment on even non-human animals.
Bobby Lee and Andrew Santino promote Acorns, emphasizing its accessibility for new investors and its ability to grow with users' financial goals. They highlight the app's potential for compounding returns and its all-in-one functionality, encouraging listeners to sign up and receive a bonus investment. This promotion aims to increase user acquisition.
Lee and Santino Discuss Bobby's Medications
Bobby Lee and Andrew Santino discuss Bobby's various medications, including Lexapro and medications for nausea, and their side effects. They joke about his inability to perform sexually due to the medications and the complexity of his pill regimen. This conversation reveals Bobby's health struggles.
Bobby Lee Reflects on Bad Friends' Impact
Bobby Lee expresses profound gratitude for the positive impact Bad Friends has had on his life and career, stating it's the greatest thing he's ever done and has strengthened his friendship with Andrew Santino. He acknowledges the show's transformative influence, surpassing any previous achievements. This podcast has been the highlight of his career.
Bobby Lee argues that winning the lottery often leads to negative outcomes, such as financial ruin and strained relationships with friends and family. He contrasts this with individuals paralyzed from the neck down, who find joy in small improvements and appreciate genuine connections. Therefore, the lottery's initial excitement can give way to long-term struggles, while those facing adversity may discover deeper satisfaction.
Santino Highlights the Performative Nature of Honold's Climb
Andrew Santino suggests that Alex Honold's skyscraper climb in Singapore, documented by Netflix, was more of a PR stunt than a genuine feat of athleticism. He points out the safety measures in place and the likelihood of editing out any potential falls. Thus, the spectacle was carefully curated for entertainment, diminishing the perceived risk.
Friedland: Modern Architecture Lacks Novelty
Adam Friedland laments the lack of novelty in modern architecture, particularly the cookie-cutter apartment complexes that dominate urban landscapes. He attributes this to a desire for newness and cheap construction, resulting in a loss of unique character. Consequently, cities are becoming increasingly homogenized, sacrificing individuality for superficial luxury.
Bobby expresses his enjoyment of the gay hockey show "Heated Rivalry," particularly highlighting a scene between two rookies. He admits that he watches it to be more open-minded and not be the guy who says, "I don't want to watch that stuff," suggesting a desire to challenge his own biases and be more accepting of diverse content. Ultimately, Bobby's viewing habits reflect a conscious effort to broaden his perspectives.
Santino on Post-Special Blues
Andrew describes feeling a sense of "postpartum" depression after filming his special, a sentiment Bobby relates to, noting the emotional toll of pouring so much effort into a project. Andrew reveals he even started taking Lexapro to cope with the depression, highlighting the significant emotional impact that creating and releasing a comedy special can have on a performer. Thus, the creative process can be emotionally taxing.
Steel Beans on AI's Limitations
Steel Beans argues that AI can only copy and reflect human emotion, but it cannot replace the nuance and finetuning that comes from human creativity. He emphasizes that AI relies on human command and training, suggesting that laziness on the writer's behalf is the only way AI can exist. Therefore, AI will never truly replace human creativity.