#399 Abortion Comedy Subplot with James Austin Johnson
Aug 25, 2026 · 1h 59m
Summary
Gianmarco Soresi discusses Nashville’s evolving culture, his identity as a character comedian rather than an impressionist, and his upbringing in the conservative Church of the Nazarene. He reflects on his early acting experiences in church plays and forensics competitions, which sparked his interest in comedy. Soresi also shares insights from his time writing for Saturday Night Live, including working with hosts like Ariana Grande, and explores how his background influences his political satire.
Topics discussed
Intro and ShipStation ad
Nashville's identity and gentrification
Karaoke, Bob Dylan, and Iran
ShipStation and Starbucks ads
Fans, harassment, and living in NYC
Comedy style and character work
Guitarists and voice artists
Labels, impressions, and Christian Bale
Opera, Trump, and Metal Gear Solid
SNL hosting and Andrea Martin
Church of the Nazarene upbringing
Anti-fun theology and church plays
Star Wars, early comedy, and PBS
Humorous interpretation and humorists
Clean comedy and Christian pop music
Odo and Whole Foods ads
TBN, Mike Huckabee, and clean comedy market
Faith-based films and political shifts
Christian art and soulless in-house work
Cynical art and raising a child
Cultural equipment and Trump impression
MAGA fans and SNL writing process
This Has Got To Stop segment
Elon Musk, jobs, and Democrats
Backpacks and sweatpants outside
Improv comedy and skills
Improv thoughts and medication
Psychiatrist, Adderall, and Death Stranding
Tour dates and Row ad
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