Adam Carolla Show – Episode Summary: "NYC Spends 1.6 Million on Panic Buttons + Comedian Ben Gleib"

Release Date: May 6, 2025

In this episode of The Adam Carolla Show, host Adam Carolla welcomes comedian Ben Gleib as his guest. The episode delves into a variety of topics, ranging from personal travel mishaps and societal issues to the intricacies of the comedy industry. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and memorable moments from the episode.

1. Airport Adventures and Frustrations ([03:08] - [12:09])

Ben Gleib kicks off the conversation by sharing his recent travel experiences, highlighting the challenges he faced at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Ben recounts getting locked out of the self-service kiosks while attempting to check in for his flight.

Ben Gleib [04:16]: "And then the woman who worked for Delta or American or whatever airline we're flying on came by and we said, what's going on with the machine? And she said, well, you got to go check in in person."

The discussion intensifies as Ben and his companion, Mike, debate the airline representative's rigid enforcement of the 45-minute cutoff before takeoff. Their frustration mounts as they realize they're within the acceptable window yet face unwarranted restrictions.

Ben Gleib [06:31]: "She did the hand, she did the hand move. She made a sound. She said, no, take off."

After multiple attempts to resolve the issue, Ben and Mike decide to approach the check-in desk directly, successfully checking their bags but left bewildered by the inconsistent communication from airline staff.

2. Real ID Complications and Identity Confusion ([07:22] - [12:09])

The conversation shifts to the complexities surrounding the Real ID system. Ben narrates another incident where an airline agent questions his Real ID status, causing further delays and confusion about travel dates.

Ben Gleib [10:07]: "She goes, oh, you got to get the real ID. I go, shut the up. Shut the up. Just shut up."

The dialogue underscores the frustrations travelers face with evolving identification requirements and the lack of flexibility from service personnel.

3. Robert De Niro's Transgender Family Member ([12:09] - [19:24])

Ben Gleib and Jason Mayhem Miller delve into a contentious topic regarding actor Robert De Niro's family. Ben expresses skepticism and frustration over media coverage of De Niro's child coming out as transgender, questioning the clarity and language used in reporting.

Ben Gleib [13:15]: "Robert De Niro shares love and support for his daughter Aaron after she comes out as transgender."

The discussion becomes increasingly critical as Ben voices his discontent with transgender narratives, using derogatory language and expressing a lack of understanding and empathy.

Ben Gleib [18:56]: "Do we need to stop supporting these fucking retard narcissists?"

This segment reflects Ben's controversial stance on transgender issues, generating a heated exchange among the hosts.

4. Waymo Driverless Cars and Noise Pollution in Santa Monica ([20:57] - [28:24])

The hosts transition to a news segment about Waymo's driverless cars operating in Santa Monica. Residents have raised concerns over the incessant beeping noises from the cars' backup systems, which disrupt the neighborhood's tranquility.

Ben Gleib [25:22]: "All right, the backup beeper is now officially more harm than good. If you can't get the fuck out of the way, that's on you."

Ben criticizes the necessity and implementation of these alerts, arguing that most situations don't warrant such disruptive noise.

Ben Gleib [28:24]: "All they need is to figure it out. I can't take it anymore. Every van, every truck, everything has a fucking backup beeper."

The segment highlights the tension between technological advancements and their unintended impacts on communities, emphasizing Ben's frustration with pervasive noise pollution.

5. Vaping Culture and Societal Observations ([28:24] - [39:18])

A brief discussion ensues about the evolution of vaping. Ben comments on society's shifting perceptions, noting how vaping once stigmatized tobacco use has morphed to encompass cannabis, leading to a more accepted stance.

Ben Gleib [38:43]: "We're so fucked up as a culture that we were all against vaping when it was tobacco, but then at some point, vaping became pot and now we're cool."

The conversation touches on the complexities of substance use and societal acceptance, though it remains a minor topic compared to others.

6. Inside the Comedy Industry: Challenges and Dynamics ([37:34] - [85:30])

Ben Gleib provides an in-depth look into his journey within the comedy scene, discussing the hurdles of booking shows, training at the Groundlings, and navigating industry expectations.

Ben Gleib [70:23]: "I was on the record. Are you familiar? Has it been this long?"

Ben shares his experiences with group improv, highlighting the difficulties of maintaining creative integrity amidst conflicting directions from peers and bookers.

Ben Gleib [74:00]: "I blame Mike."

The dialogue explores the rigors of comedic performance, the importance of consistent feedback, and the personal struggles comedians face in sustaining their careers.

7. Jussie Smollett Settlement and Media Critique ([123:56] - [136:57])

The hosts discuss the recent settlement between New York City and Jussie Smollett, following allegations of orchestrated hate crimes. Ben critiques the media's portrayal and the city's handling of the situation, expressing skepticism about the motives behind the legal actions.

Ben Gleib [124:46]: "This is what happens. Everyone gets pulled over the most if they commit the most crime."

Ben extends his critique to broader societal and procedural issues, questioning the effectiveness and fairness of certain law enforcement practices.

8. News Segment: NYC's Investment in Panic Buttons ([110:35] - [119:58])

The episode includes a news discussion about New York City allocating $1.6 million to install panic buttons in 500 bodegas to combat rising crime rates. Ben analyzes the initiative, debating its practicality and the underlying issues of crime and policing.

Ben Gleib [119:21]: "Stop committing the lion's share of the crime and you'll stop getting profiled. That's how this is going to work, everybody."

The hosts debate the balance between technological interventions and addressing root causes of crime, reflecting on systemic challenges within urban environments.

Notable Quotes

• Ben Gleib [04:16]: "Why can't we just get it out of the kiosk? And she said, you're too late. You're too late."

• Ben Gleib [13:40]: "Robert De Niro never said a word. Nobody knew what Robert De Niro's thoughts were other than he was an actor."

• Ben Gleib [25:22]: "All right, the backup beeper is now officially more harm than good."

• Ben Gleib [37:34]: "A lot of people should just stay home and stay home and shut up and consume."

• Ben Gleib [119:21]: "Stop committing the lion's share of the crime and you'll stop getting profiled."

Conclusion

This episode of The Adam Carolla Show offers a blend of personal anecdotes, societal critiques, and an insider's perspective on the comedy industry. Ben Gleib engages in candid discussions, often stirring controversy with his viewpoints on sensitive topics such as transgender issues and policing practices. The conversation underscores ongoing tensions between technological advancements and their societal impacts, as well as the personal challenges faced by comedians in a competitive industry.

Note: The podcast exhibits strong opinions and uses language that may be offensive to some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.