219. Michelle Buteau: From TV News to Her Own TV Series
Summary
Mike Birbiglia interviews comedian Michelle Buteau about her final season of *Survival of the Thickest*, discussing her creative process and writer's room dynamics. They explore her background in local news, performing stand-up after 9/11, and navigating Catholic upbringing. The conversation also touches on her new comedy material regarding American exhaustion and the realities of parenting.
Topics discussed
Intro: Michelle Buteau joins the show and audio notes
Survival of the Thickest Season 2 cliffhanger and tone
Creative process: Adapting life stories for TV
Writer's room dynamics and imposter syndrome
Media misquotes and the 'gotcha' culture
Sponsors: Warby Parker and Rula therapy
Michelle's background in local news and 9/11
Italian heritage, Catholicism, and family values
Algorithm quirks and fashion as empowerment
Jealousy, the male gaze, and body image
Sponsors: Helix, Quince, and Article
New stand-up material on America and yoga
Parenting twins and the loss of 'off' time
Outro: ACLU donation and tour dates
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