222. Joe List: How to Survive a Comedy Panic Attack
Summary
Mike Birbiglia hosts comedian Joe List, discussing their friendship, marriage to fellow comic Sarah Talamash, and raising a child. They explore List’s documentary on Tom Dustin, the challenges of addiction, and how success impacts storytelling. The episode also covers Birbiglia’s new film, tour cancellations, and personal anecdotes about anxiety and comedy writing.
Topics discussed
Intro: Story scarcity and podcast updates
Tour cancellations and John Mulaney praise
Anxiety about being late and parental pressure
Compliments on comedy and self-promotion
Watching specials and meeting Talia Balsam
Documentary on Tom Dustin and working-class comics
Tom Dustin's sobriety and indie film struggles
Storytelling frequency and aging comedians
Finding funny material and mental health
Overcoming panic attacks on stage
Sponsors: Rula therapy and Forkful meals
Wedding officiating and jealousy of peers
Lying, roommates, and Nick Griffin advice
M&M history and product origin obsessions
Physical exam jokes and parenting advice
Sponsors: Cozy Earth, Article, and Helix
Nantucket show, lies, and breath smells
Gun premise, charity, and outro
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