Summary of "Adam Carolla Show" Episode Featuring Michael McKean and Matt Besser (Carolla Classics) Release Date: August 10, 2025
Welcome to Carolla Classics, a companion podcast to The Adam Carolla Show, where Adam revisits memorable moments, highlights, and fan-selected clips from his extensive 16-year podcasting career. In this episode, Adam hosts the talented Michael McKean and Matt Besser, diving into a myriad of topics ranging from personal anecdotes to insightful discussions on culture, sports, and entertainment.
1. Introduction and Setting the Stage
The episode kicks off with Adam introducing the concept of Carolla Classics, emphasizing its role in showcasing the best moments from his show’s history. Giovanni acts as the co-host, providing context and additional commentary.
Notable Quote:
- Adam Carolla [01:34]: "We have a companion podcast titled Carolla Classics."
2. Personal Anecdotes: Pets and Pools
Adam shares personal stories about his dog, Phil, a water-loving breed, and his endeavors in building a swimming pool to keep Phil entertained without losing his dignity.
Notable Quotes:
- Adam Carolla [04:09]: "The only thing I didn't like about my last dog, Molly, was not a water dog."
- Adam Carolla [05:28]: "Phil's a water dog. Phil was pouring rain today, and Phil went out in the backyard trying to drink the water out of the sky."
3. The Story of the Forgotten Mountain Dew Can and Dip Incident
A humorous yet frustrating encounter unfolds as Adam discovers a lone Mountain Dew Code Red can left behind after a football gathering. His irritation escalates upon finding leftover dip, leading to a comedic rant about cleanliness and responsibility.
Notable Quotes:
- Adam Carolla [10:34]: "Who is this? And I'm trying to break it down. It's not Hench, not Nick. Who is it?"
- Adam Carolla [12:14]: "To all who dip. You cannot leave that fucking can behind."
4. Sports vs. Awards Shows: A Discussion on Authenticity and Satisfaction
Adam contrasts the straightforward nature of sports like the Super Bowl and UFC, where outcomes are clear and satisfying, with the often convoluted and subjective nature of award shows like the Oscars.
Notable Quotes:
- Adam Carolla [38:01]: "We know how it ends. We know how it ends. And every year."
- Adam Carolla [40:12]: "There's no politics. There's no anything. It's just best player, you're on the field."
5. Dive into Entertainment: Movie Reviews and Improv Insights
The conversation shifts to movie reviews, specifically spotlighting the film Brooklyn. Giovanni provides an in-depth analysis, praising its character development and emotional depth. Michael and Matt contribute with their perspectives on the film and the challenges of stand-up comedy.
Notable Quotes:
- Giovanni [31:27]: "It's a little movie. I'm not describing a really, you know, groundbreaking plot. It's more about the characters, more about the emotion."
- Matt Besser [58:10]: "When you start doing stand up, it's all about nuance, taking your time, hitting those things."
6. Listener Interactions and Funny Clips
Adam engages with listener calls, sharing amusing clips from shows like Workaholics. These segments add a layer of relatability and humor, reflecting the show's dynamic banter.
Notable Quotes:
- Adam Carolla [20:09]: "Do you have any cats? No. No, I didn't think so."
- Gina Grad [15:24]: "How come all of your suggestions are disgusting?"
7. Health and Lifestyle Discussions: E-Cigs, Vaping, and More
The conversation delves into health-related topics, particularly the dangers of e-cigarettes and the rise of vaping. Dr. Drew contributes his expertise, highlighting recent studies linking vaping to increased bacterial virulence.
Notable Quotes:
- Dr. Drew [121:24]: "There's no treatment for it. Once you're exposed and your lead levels are high..."
- Adam Carolla [125:02]: "But if you're wearing tight pants and you have... being a construction-minded person..."
8. Addressing Social Issues: Prenups and Parenting
Adam tackles sensitive social issues such as prenuptial agreements and responsible parenting. He emphasizes the importance of financial and emotional preparedness before bringing children into the world.
Notable Quotes:
- Gina Grad [208:05]: "They get the pen out."
- Adam Carolla [208:04]: "It's a very sad. It's like you might as well go pick out funeral plots later on that day."
9. News Segments with Gina Grad
Gina Grad presents timely news updates, covering topics like prison escapees, identity theft, and health warnings. These segments provide a succinct overview of current events, maintaining the show's informative edge.
Notable Quotes:
- Gina Grad [76:04]: "All three Orange county jail escapees are back in custody..."
- Gina Grad [87:51]: "In SAG Award news, NBC reports that the journalism drama Spotlight won the SAG ensemble cast award..."
10. Guest Segment: Michael McKean’s Insights on Comedy and Improv
Michael McKean shares his journey in comedy and improv, recounting his experiences with The Credibility Gap and the challenges of gaining recognition. His anecdotes shed light on the evolution of comedy platforms and the importance of perseverance.
Notable Quotes:
- Michael McKean [57:20]: "In the early 70s, I became part of a group called the Credibility Gap..."
- Adam Carolla [165:38]: "He told me a lot about what makes him tick and how he built his career."
11. Closing Thoughts and Future Shows
The episode wraps up with plans for upcoming shows, tours, and interactions with fans. Adam encourages listeners to engage with the Carolla Classics podcast and stay tuned for future episodes featuring notable guests.
Notable Quotes:
- Adam Carolla [201:03]: "What can I say? This guy being on TV is..."
- Gina Grad [220:17]: "Well, Grease Live appeared Fox Sunday night to over 12 million viewers."
Conclusion
This episode of Carolla Classics offers a rich tapestry of stories, humor, and insightful discussions. From personal tales about pets and humorous rants about irresponsibility to deep dives into movies and pressing social issues, Adam Carolla, alongside guests Michael McKean and Matt Besser, delivers a compelling and entertaining experience for both long-time fans and new listeners alike.
For more engaging content and future episodes, visit adamcarolla.com and subscribe to Carolla Classics on your preferred podcast platform.
Disclaimer: This summary is based on a fictional transcript provided by the user and does not represent an actual podcast episode.
