Ep 634 - Department of Jokes (feat. Yakov Smirnoff)
Summary
Comedian Yakov Smirnoff joins Matt and Shane to discuss his upbringing in the Soviet Union, the strict censorship of comedy there, and his immigration to the US. He shares stories about selling condoms in Italy to survive, his career peak during the Cold War, and his subsequent move to Branson, Missouri. The group also covers Joe Rogan’s middle finger incident, the Kazatsky dance, and a bizarre tangent about monetizing dog waste.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Yakov's Russian heritage
Nate's Joe Rogan middle finger incident
Kazatsky dance and low kicks
Taco Vas ad and military goose step
Dog poop robot business idea
Yakov's working dog and motel story
Storm chaser Reed Timmer and his dog
Kevin Costner movie and Prize Picks ad
Life in Soviet communal apartments
State-approved comedians and jokes
Immigrating to America and customs
Selling condoms in Italy
Chernobyl disaster and Soviet collapse
BetterHelp ad and sports bets
Getting canceled and moving to Branson
Willie Nelson tour and theater success
Psychology degree and laughter research
SNL appearance and parents' reaction
Early comedy career and cruise ship MC
Escaping the USSR via wheat deal
Listen ad-free on Castria