Andrew Santino recounts a humorous and slightly disgusting experience of a fellow passenger eating a tuna sandwich on a plane, highlighting the social faux pas of strong-smelling food in confined spaces. He contrasts this with his own past habit of eating tuna on planes, admitting he's 'changed and grown.'
Berner: Sports Illustrated Stint and Imposter Syndrome
Hannah Berner discusses her experience being featured in Sports Illustrated, noting she wasn't on the cover and felt the 'brave' label was misplaced. She reflects on her past imposter syndrome related to tennis, contrasting it with her confidence in her comedic and artistic endeavors, which she views as subjective.
Berner & Santino: The Comedy Hustle
Hannah Berner and Andrew Santino discuss the nature of comedy careers, with Berner highlighting the freedom of stand-up where one can always create, unlike actors who must wait for bookings. Santino agrees, emphasizing that while tickets can be stopped, the ability to perform and create remains.
Andrew Santino and Prof discuss why musicians typically sell more merchandise than comedians, attributing it to the audience's desire for a tangible piece of the live music experience. Comedians, they argue, offer an ephemeral experience that doesn't translate as readily into physical goods. The conversation highlights a fundamental difference in fan engagement between the two art forms. Ultimately, the perceived value of a physical memento differs significantly, leading to varied commercial outcomes.
Prof Praises Kill Tony's Live Production
Prof shares his admiration for the live 'Kill Tony' show, particularly praising Tony Hinchcliffe's skill as a producer and showman in managing the complex, improvisational format in a large venue. He highlights the comedic genius of Harland Williams and David Lucas, who delivered memorable freestyle jokes. Prof's observations reveal the intricate balance of spontaneity and control required for such a massive live comedy production. The experience left him impressed by the show's seamless execution.
Jack Harlow's 'Monica' Album Title Sparks Controversy
Andrew Santino and Prof discuss the controversy surrounding Jack Harlow's album titled 'Monica,' which was criticized for its perceived reference to a derogatory term for Black individuals. Prof recounts inadvertently using the term himself after realizing the connection, expressing disbelief that Harlow or his label would intentionally choose such a title. The discussion highlights the sensitive nature of language in hip-hop and the potential for cultural missteps. The lack of a public explanation from Jack Harlow leaves the intent ambiguous.
Andrew Santino discusses his upcoming tour plans, noting that his current shows in August will be his last for the year, with a focus on building towards a new theater tour. He invites audience suggestions for club locations. Zac Townsend shares his experience of feeling like he 'scares people' in LA due to his height and intense walking demeanor, contrasting it with his softer facial appearance.
Nashville Comedy Scene and Personal Connections
Zac Townsend expresses his love for Nashville and the comedy club 'Z' there, highlighting its traditional feel and the strong community of friends he has in the city. He shares a poignant story about meeting a couple at the club who later tragically passed away, which has made returning to Nashville difficult for him. Andrew Santino recounts how he and Townsend first met at 'Z' in Nashville, emphasizing the importance of personal connections in the comedy world.
The Power of Friendship and Internet Content Sharing
Andrew Santino and Zac Townsend emphasize the strength of their friendship, with Santino stating Townsend is his favorite comedian to tour with. They discuss their regular communication via a private DM stream where they share humorous and 'wild' internet content. This highlights how shared interests and inside jokes strengthen their bond, even as they navigate their individual careers.
Shane Mauss: Psychedelic Advocate vs. Community Critic
Shane Mauss champions the exploration of psychedelics for personal growth and consciousness, yet he finds himself at odds with segments of the 'psychedelic community' due to their often mystical or overly dogmatic interpretations of experiences. He prefers a more grounded, science-adjacent perspective, which sometimes clashes with the more 'woo-woo' elements of the community. This creates a unique position where he advocates for the substances while critiquing the culture surrounding them.
Mauss's Psychedelic Stage Persona: From All-American to DMT Jesus
Shane Mauss's stage persona has evolved significantly, moving from an 'all-American boy' image to embracing a more psychedelic aesthetic, complete with custom-designed, vibrant suits. This transformation was driven by his immersive shows, particularly a residency at Area 15 in Las Vegas, which integrated 360-degree visuals and live VJing. The visual spectacle demanded a wardrobe that matched the psychedelic theme, leading him to collaborate with artists like Freeborn Designs to create unique stage attire.
The Science of Memory and Trauma
Our brains tend to remember negative experiences more vividly than positive ones, a phenomenon that can be exacerbated in conditions like PTSD. While confronting these memories can be challenging, it's often necessary for processing and overcoming them. The speaker notes that some studies involving intense experiences were halted due to safety concerns.
James Donald Forbes McCann recounts an unforgettable night at The Comedy Store where he witnessed and participated in an impromptu performance featuring a constellation of stars including Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Busta Rhymes, and Kanye West, culminating in a powerful set of Black Star and College Dropout hits. He describes the electric atmosphere and his feeling of being in the presence of greatness.
Hollywood's Creative Drought
Andrew Santino and James Donald Forbes McCann discuss the perceived decline in Hollywood's production of original content, noting that many studios are empty and that shows are increasingly being produced overseas or as animated projects. They question the industry's current state, contrasting it with its past as a hub for creativity and show business.
AI and the Future of Work
The conversation touches upon the growing presence of AI and automation, with a moment of relief found in observing robots struggling to perform simple tasks like carrying food. This observation provides a temporary sense of security, suggesting that human roles are still essential and that AI's complete takeover is not imminent.
Tony Hale's Irish Ancestry and the 'Redhead Curse'
Tony Hale discusses his Irish heritage and the common perception of redheads in Hollywood, noting that roles for redheads are often written as 'freak' or 'weirdo' characters, unlike more conventionally attractive roles. He contrasts this with his own experience, where his grandmother's red hair made him the 'golden child' among grandchildren, though his stepdad's relationship was more strained. He also touches on the cultural association of Irish heritage with heavy drinking.
The Emotional Toll of Darker Roles
Tony Hale and Andrew Santino discuss the emotional impact of watching and performing in somber or intense films, referencing 'The Banshees of Inisherin.' Hale explains that he struggles to compartmentalize such content, as it deeply affects him and can ruin his day, unlike his wife's perspective. He finds reality TV and producer-manipulated drama more disturbing than fictional narratives because of the perceived deception and public humiliation involved.
Tony Hale's Voice Acting Journey and Insecurities
Hale expresses his initial disbelief and insecurity about being cast as Forky in 'Toy Story 5,' constantly expecting to be replaced by a bigger name like Jack Black. He reveals a past voice coach's comment about his lack of 'resonance' fueled this insecurity. He contrasts the collaborative environment at Pixar, where everyone is in the same room, with the anxiety-inducing process of recording for other projects where executives' reactions are opaque.
Andrew Santino admits he's fallen off from actively watching sports, including the NBA Finals and his beloved Chicago Cubs, due to a general lack of interest and the hassle of subscriptions, though he still maintains an emotional connection to the Bears. He contrasts this with the immersive experience of attending a Dodgers game, which he found impressive.
Santino & Johnson: The 'Communist' Penis & Financial Etiquette
The conversation takes a sharp turn into a comedic debate about penis size, with Santino and Johnson comparing their own to celebrities like John Hamm, and wishing for a 'communist' system where size is regulated by handsomeness or success. This evolves into a discussion about financial etiquette among friends, particularly the unspoken rules of splitting bills and the 'dad move' of meticulously calculating and paying the check.
Santino: The $100 Gesture
Andrew Santino recounts giving a friend $100 unexpectedly, framing it as a gesture of affection and a way to connect with younger, cooler people, reflecting a desire to stay relevant and generous despite his own financial considerations.
Jordan Jensen proposes a humorous take on generational slang, suggesting that '67' is a safe number because Gen Z had to invent new terms to avoid being labeled racist or bigoted, while Baby Boomers 'screwed us over' by creating societal issues like racism. This highlights the evolving nature of language and the perceived burdens passed between generations.
The Perils of Touring: Bus Life and Driver Drama
Jordan Jensen recounts the chaotic experience of touring via bus, detailing the exorbitant costs, the challenges of a female comedian on the road, and a terrifying incident involving a sleep-deprived bus driver named 'Iron Man' who nearly crashed the vehicle. The discussion also touches on the strict rules against using the bus restroom, leading to uncomfortable situations.
Canine Companions and City Dog Culture
The discussion turns to dogs, with Jensen describing her dog Coyote's unique behaviors and Santino comparing his own dog's independence. They then debate which city has the most shelter dogs, touching on the prevalence of stray animals and the distinct types of dogs found in different urban environments.
Andy Milonakis recounts a past practice of emptying bottles of Blanton's bourbon at the Chateau Marmont hotel and discreetly pouring in more expensive Pappy Van Winkle, justifying it as a way to enjoy his preferred drink without appearing cheap. This anecdote highlights a unique, albeit ethically questionable, approach to enjoying luxury spirits in exclusive settings.
Milonakis: The Nomadic Lifestyle and Austin's Limitations
Andy Milonakis explains his current nomadic lifestyle, moving from LA to Austin and now considering a return to LA, driven by a desire for creative opportunities and social engagement. He finds Austin too isolating for his needs, despite its appeal for space and lower taxes, ultimately prioritizing a more dynamic environment for his work and personal life.
Milonakis: The Nostalgia of Arcades and Vintage Games
Andy Milonakis expresses a deep connection to nostalgia, particularly through vintage arcade games and childhood haunts like the Electric Playhouse. He recently acquired a rare 'Baby Pac-Man' machine, illustrating his commitment to preserving these tangible links to his past and the joy they bring.
Andrew Santino recounts a series of unfortunate travel experiences, including a lack of legroom, a dog defecating on a flight, and a flight attendant's strict enforcement of bathroom rules, highlighting the perceived class disparities in air travel.
Fidance's Tattoo Journey
Ian Fidance explains his extensive tattoo collection, including a recent back piece, as a form of emotional processing and a way to fill the 'empty space' on his body, linking his art to personal struggles and a friend's suicide.
Childhood Nostalgia and 'Three Ninjas'
The conversation drifts into childhood nostalgia, specifically recalling the movie 'Three Ninjas,' with Fidance humorously recounting his childhood attempts to get discovered for a role by practicing karate on his lawn.
Zach Zucker recounts being kicked out of three temples by the age of 12 due to his inability to sit still and his penchant for disruptive behavior, including playing loud music during services and making witty, albeit disrespectful, remarks to teachers. This early defiance foreshadowed his unconventional path.
The Art of Uncomfortable Comedy and Clown School
Zucker explains that his attendance at clown school in France was a formative experience that taught him to embrace discomfort and push boundaries in performance. He learned to find humor in awkwardness and to intentionally 'cross the line' from a place of playfulness, a stark contrast to the rigid standards often applied to comedians today.
Cultural Nuances: French Pleasantries vs. American Norms
The conversation delves into the complexities of European social customs, particularly the French 'double kiss' greeting. Zucker shares humorous anecdotes about his own struggles to navigate these norms, often misinterpreting them and leading to awkward encounters, contrasting them with more direct American customs like handshakes.
Andrew Santino comments on Pete Holmes's comfortable home slippers, suggesting they signify success and a relaxed lifestyle, contrasting them with more formal footwear.
The 'Belfast Way' of Justice
Discussing Prince Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein, Pete Holmes shares an anecdote about Belfast's unique method of dealing with pedophiles: a warning about their knees, followed by public knee-breaking if the behavior continues.
The Art of Incompetency Porn
Holmes and Santino discuss their preference for 'incompetency porn' in media, enjoying content where characters fumble or fail, contrasting it with 'competency porn' which they find less engaging.
Rene Vaca discusses how his rapid ascent to fame through viral content, while beneficial, also brings immense pressure and unrealistic expectations, forcing him to quickly develop genuine stand-up chops to match the online hype. He notes that the stage remains the ultimate test, humbling even those with massive online followings. This pressure is a constant challenge in navigating the early stages of a comedy career.
A Comedian's Crew: The Rise of Latino Talent
Vaca and Santino reflect on the shift in the comedy landscape, particularly for Latino comedians. They contrast the past era, where success often meant individualistic achievement, with the current generation's approach of mutual support and collaboration. This crew mentality, exemplified by Vaca's early experiences with Ken Flores and others, has been crucial in lifting each other up and creating a more inclusive and supportive environment within the industry.
The Unforeseen Foundation: Father's Sentence Fuels Comedy
Rene Vaca reveals that his father's 40-year prison sentence for drug trafficking, initially a devastating event, paradoxically became a cornerstone of his comedic career. The profound personal trauma and the subsequent need to process it through humor provided him with compelling material, a unique narrative for college applications, and ultimately, a winning edge in stand-up competitions like Stand-Up NBC. He credits this difficult experience as a catalyst for his success, emphasizing that without it, his career trajectory might have been entirely different.
Andrew Santino announces upcoming comedy tour dates in Los Angeles, San Diego, and St. Charles, Missouri, encouraging fans to purchase tickets via his website.
Oliver Tree's Drug Use & Persona
Oliver Tree discusses his past and present use of various substances, including poppers and whippets, and how this relates to his public persona and creative process, humorously claiming he's sober except for microdosing mushrooms.
Santino's Acid Reflux & Diet
Andrew Santino details his specific Taco Bell order, explaining his avoidance of raw tomatoes due to severe acid reflux, a condition he humorously links to his Irish-Italian heritage.
Comedians often engage in playful insults as a form of connection and humor, a dynamic that can be misunderstood by those outside the industry. Santino recounts an incident where a joke about a guest's shirt led to an unintended revelation about the guest's daughter's cancer, highlighting the potential for misinterpretation when context is missing. He argues that comedians operate on a different level, focusing on the joke's construction rather than its potential to offend.
Williams: The Comedy Gods and Special Titles
Brad Williams explains the origin of his new special's title, 'Live on Short Street,' which was filmed at a theater on Short Street in Lexington, Kentucky. He humorously suggests that the 'comedy gods' guided him to this title, comparing it to how he'd title a special if it were filmed on 'Little Dick Ginger Avenue.' He also reflects on his dad's suggestion to title a special 'Red-Headed Stepchild,' acknowledging its commonality and potential for humor.
Santino & Williams: The 'Conqueror' Cancer Controversy
The conversation shifts to the 1956 film 'The Conqueror,' starring John Wayne, which was filmed near a site of nuclear testing. Both Santino and Williams discuss the high cancer rates among the cast and crew, with Williams detailing the alarming statistics. They note that Howard Hughes, the film's producer, attempted to destroy most prints of the movie, possibly due to the controversy and health implications.
Andrew Santino recounts his decade-long pursuit of a role in the film 'Ricky Stanicky,' detailing how he initially pitched the idea and persistently sought the part, even after it was initially attached to Jim Carrey. He emphasizes the script's comedic brilliance and his dedication to securing a role in it.
Santino: The 'How I Met Your Father' Pilot Flop
Andrew Santino discusses his involvement in the original pilot for 'How I Met Your Father,' which was ultimately scrapped. He describes the pilot as 'unwatchable' and attributes its failure to a disconnect between the creative vision and the established format, noting the cast's premature discussions about moving to New York as a sign of overconfidence.
Santino: The Dugout Dad Experience
Andrew Santino describes his role as a 'dugout dad' in his son's Little League team, managing the kids' energy and dynamics. He humorously recounts the chaotic environment, comparing it to 'Bad News Bears,' and shares his observations on the unique personalities and interactions among the young players.
Timmy No Brakes claims he survived cancer by 'manifesting' it away after being given only three months to live, and asserts he can feel when cancer is absent from his body. He humorously suggests others with cancer try 'shots of bleach' as a remedy, while also noting pancreatic cancer is untreatable.
Riot Parties and Epstein's Island
Timmy No Brakes describes attending and hosting 'riot parties,' including one on January 6th where the Capitol was breached, stating he enjoys the party aspect rather than politics. He also claims to have thrown a party on 'Epstein's Island,' implying involvement with the disgraced financier's activities.
The 'Game' of Seduction and 'Loose Bunch'
Timmy No Brakes discusses his past as a dancer and his knowledge of 'The Game,' a book on seduction. He then elaborates on his supposed ability to fit '13 women' on his penis, referring to them as the 'loose bunch,' and specifies they were elderly women, framing it as a test of capacity rather than enjoyment.
Jimmy O. Yang's new special, 'Finally Home,' is a large-scale concert film shot across five shows in Hong Kong, featuring 8,000 attendees per show. It's primarily in English but incorporates Cantonese, drawing a parallel to how George Lopez used Spanish. The special is currently available in movie theaters globally.
The Quest for Hobbies
Andrew Santino suggests that Jimmy O. Yang needs to find hobbies outside of his demanding career to prevent burnout and foster creativity. Yang initially lists fantasy football and video games, but Santino clarifies that a true hobby should be something done for oneself, away from work, like gardening or cooking, which offer mental escape and personal fulfillment.
The Tupac Driver Tale
Andrew Santino recounts a bizarre story from a road trip where their driver claimed to have picked up Tupac, mistaking Tone Lōk for the legendary rapper. The driver insisted on the encounter, even after being corrected about Tupac's death and the song's actual artist, highlighting a humorous disconnect and the persistence of a tall tale.
Andrew Santino describes Australian film crews as being excessively nice and peppy, contrasting them with American union crews who are perceived as more gritty and less overtly accommodating. He suggests this difference might stem from American crews being more accustomed to the work and thus more detached, while Australian crews are eager to please and make guests feel welcome.
Santino: American Exceptionalism in Killing
Andrew Santino humorously asserts American dominance in 'killing,' citing a higher murder rate than other countries like Somalia. He frames this as a point of national pride and a testament to American 'number one' status, suggesting a cultural tendency towards aggression and a lack of sleep, which he links to global dominance. This is presented as a dark, satirical take on American exceptionalism.
Santino: The 'Autistic' Nature of Tennis Spectatorship
Andrew Santino describes tennis, particularly Wimbledon, as a 'gentlemanly autistic' sport due to its quiet, observational nature. He contrasts this with more chaotic sporting events and concerts, which he finds overwhelming due to crowds and standing. He prefers activities that allow for quiet observation and personal space, like watching tennis or attending specific types of performances.
Fiona Cauley legally changed her name from Lauren Collie to Fiona at age nine, influenced by a combination of childhood pop culture references like Shrek and a desire to escape a name she found boring. This decision was solidified when she legally changed it at 18, marking a significant step in her personal identity.
The Comedy Scene in Nashville
Fiona Cauley, who started her comedy career in Nashville, discusses the city's comedy scene, noting its growth and current recognition. She contrasts it with cities having multiple clubs, suggesting that Nashville's single-club environment (Zanies) fosters a more competitive and high-quality scene, forcing comedians to work harder to gain recognition.
Navigating Wheelchair Use and Public Spaces
Cauley expresses strong frustration with able-bodied individuals misusing wheelchairs, particularly in airports, calling them 'runway Jesus.' She criticizes the appropriation of disability culture and the entitlement of those who exploit accessible services without genuine need, emphasizing the indignity and anger this causes.
Andrew Santino introduces Tommy Brennan, highlighting his recent success and talent, particularly his work on Saturday Night Live, and expresses admiration for his comedic abilities and character. This sets the stage for a discussion about Brennan's career trajectory and his contributions to comedy.
Brennan: The 'Jeff' Fan Encounter
Tommy Brennan recounts a bizarre and unsettling encounter with a fan named Jeff who obtained his phone number and attempted to gain backstage access by fabricating a prior acquaintance. The incident escalated with the fan sending a selfie and persistent messages, leading Brennan to publicly call him out on stage, much to the audience's amusement and condemnation of Jeff.
Santino: The Beard Debate
Andrew Santino and Tommy Brennan engage in a lighthearted discussion about beards, with Santino defending his own facial hair as a way to cover his face and Brennan questioning the enduring appeal of beards compared to temporary mustaches. They touch upon famous beards and the cultural significance of facial hair in comedy and acting.
Chloe Radcliffe expresses surprise and a touch of awkwardness at being labeled a 'movie star' following her role in Bradley Cooper's film, noting it was a handpicked opportunity alongside Jordan Jensen. She reflects on the surreal nature of seeing herself on screen and the initial anxiety of not knowing her exact role in the final cut.
The Comedian's Existential Crisis
Radcliffe admits to experiencing periods of intense self-doubt and feeling like a failure, a sentiment she shares with her boyfriend. Santino relates to this, humorously suggesting that her current success should be a sign to 'cash out,' while Radcliffe acknowledges the constant internal struggle despite external achievements.
Generational Differences in Socializing
Santino and Radcliffe observe a stark difference in social dynamics when interacting with people significantly younger than themselves. They note that conversations with those under 25 often reveal youthful concerns and perspectives that they themselves once held, leading to a realization of shared experiences across age gaps.
Barry Rothbart recounts changing his name to 'Barry Ross' early in his career, driven by advice to sound less Jewish. He quickly realized the change felt inauthentic and reverted to his original name, concluding that failing under his own identity was preferable to succeeding as someone else. This decision underscored the importance of staying true to oneself in the entertainment industry.
Santino on 'Punked' Anxieties
Andrew Santino reflects on the stressful environment of working on 'Punked,' noting the anxiety and disappointment that followed unsuccessful shoots. He contrasts this with the typical experience on a TV show, where a bad day can be more easily shrugged off, suggesting that the high-stakes nature of 'Punked' created a unique level of pressure. This pressure made the experience more stressful than fun.
Rothbart's Nudist Colony Experience
Barry Rothbart shares his experience filming at a 50+ gay nudist colony, initially intending to remain clothed but eventually embracing nudity for two weeks. He found it liberating, noting that nudity leveled social hierarchies and removed pretense, but also confirmed his heterosexuality. This unique experience led to a stand-up performance in front of 500 naked people, marking a career highlight.
Todd Barry describes his comedy style as minimalist, emphasizing that less effort often yields bigger laughs. He values confidence, silence, and timing over yelling, suggesting that restraint can be more impactful. This approach reflects a philosophy of understated humor and trusting the audience to appreciate subtlety, making his comedy unique and effective.
Santino on Comedy Venues
Andrew Santino reflects on the changing landscape of comedy venues, particularly in Los Angeles. He notes that The Store was relatively quiet when he started, highlighting the challenges of breaking into the scene. Santino contrasts this with the present, where the comedy scene has evolved, influencing how comedians navigate their careers and find opportunities, showcasing the cyclical nature of entertainment hubs.
Barry on Touring Preferences
Todd Barry expresses his preference for not touring extensively anymore, contrasting it with his earlier days when he would perform almost anywhere. He jokes about being so picky now that he's practically unseeable live. This shift reflects a career evolution where established comedians can afford to be selective, prioritizing comfort and quality over constant exposure, marking a transition from hustle to curated performances.