Atsuko Okatsuka: Can You Ever Really Go Home Again?
Summary
Trevor Noah and Eugene Lee Yang critique the formulaic nature of true crime podcasts before discussing TSA agents working during government shutdowns. They compare cultural work ethics in South Africa, Japan, and the US, with Eugene sharing his upbringing in Taiwan and Japan. Eugene reveals his mother’s schizophrenia and abusive behavior, prompting a conversation about trauma, genius, and the supernatural.
Topics discussed
True crime tropes and the Brian killer story
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South African politeness and TSA interactions
Comedy, board games, and manga culture
Japanese princesses and TSA tray logic
Trevor's family background and move to the US
Mother's mental illness and 'basic' people
Genius, trauma, and polyglots
Learning English and psychic experiences
Church shootings and sobriety
Ice cream vices and Jesus's age
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Christianity in Taiwan and community
Moving to LA and starting stand-up
First comedy gigs and scary movies
True crime narratives and fashion
Working at Cold Stone Creamery
Finding voice in comedy and opera
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Artistic growth and enlightenment
Touring Asia and Japanese phrases
Global comedy scenes and salmon
South African identity and Chris Rock
Mobile games and hiking stories
Closing remarks and ads
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