The Adam Carolla Show: Episode Summary Episode: Steph Tolev Is the Filth Queen + Michael Malice on the War of Words
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Adam Carolla Show, host Adam Carolla welcomes two notable guests: comedian Steph Tolev and political pundit Michael Malice. The trio delves into Steph's burgeoning comedy career, Michael's transition from radio to stand-up, and various societal observations, all infused with Adam's signature humor and candidness.

Steph Tolev’s Comedy Journey

Starting Young in Comedy Steph Tolev shares her early beginnings in comedy, starting her first set at the age of 17 in a dive bar in Toronto (02:43). Despite a memorable bombing at her debut—which led to a confrontation with an irate audience member—Steph persevered. She recounts an amusing interaction where she threatened to "kick [the angry patron]’s ass," highlighting her early resilience and commitment to comedy.

Dealing with Online Trolling Steph opens up about the challenges of online trolling, discussing hurtful comments about her appearance and the impact they’ve had on her (06:40). She emphasizes the difference between critics who attack her physically versus those who critique her comedic material, expressing frustration over unsolicited remarks about her looks.

“This is sad losers on the Internet who clearly have been wronged by women.”
— Steph Tolev 06:24

Support from the Comedy Community Contrary to her fears, Steph finds substantial support within the comedy community. Friends and fellow comedians rally behind her, celebrating her longevity and dedication to the craft.

Michael Malice’s Transition to Stand-Up

From Radio to Comedy Michael Malice discusses his shift from a career in radio to pursuing stand-up comedy after a decade in broadcasting (27:00). Balancing his personal life, including taking time off when his daughter was sick, Michael eventually decided to fully embrace stand-up, inspired by friendships and mentorships within the industry.

Voiceover Ventures and Challenges Michael shares anecdotes about his foray into voiceover work, dealing with low pay for high-exposure gigs, and the frustrations that come with being recognized for work that doesn’t compensate him adequately.

“They’re like, no, this is just for exposure. I’m like, the exposure of what? I was like, my face, it’s my voice.”
— Michael Malice 114:18

Steph Tolev’s Netflix Special

Production Insights Steph provides an inside look into her first-ever Netflix special, Filth Queen. Filmed at the iconic Paradise Rock Club in Boston, the special captures her energetic performance style, reminiscent of classic rock shows.

“We put the my name on the speakers instead of, like, the Marshall thing.”
— Steph Tolev 14:49

Challenges During the Special She recounts the practical challenges faced during the filming, such as managing her appearance under stage lights and dealing with sweat while maintaining her comedic flow.

“I have nice legs. That's the only thing I'm like. You talk about my nose. I want.”
— Steph Tolev 16:41

Audience Reception and Highlights Michael Malice praises Steph’s special, particularly lauding a segment about The Bachelor in Paradise, deeming it exceptionally funny.

“The whole special is great. But just that bit alone like that... it's so fun.”
— Michael Malice 21:32

Navigating Physical Appearance in Comedy

Discussion on Trolls and Appearance The conversation shifts to how comedians handle critiques about their physical appearance. Steph shares her experiences with trolls targeting her nose, while Adam reflects on societal standards and the acceptance of physical traits in comedy.

“Everyone, the package is different. You know, short guy, fat guy, like, whatever.”
— Adam Carolla 08:15

Transcending Physical Traits Adam muses on how some celebrities transcend their physical appearances, becoming recognized for their work rather than their looks.

“You can transcend your nose, like Barbra Streisand did.”
— Adam Carolla 10:23

Parenting and Personal Reflections

Steph’s Family Dynamics Steph discusses her relationship with her parents, especially her mother’s role as a Highland dancing teacher and the initial embarrassment her parents felt about her comedy before becoming supportive admirers.

“And now all her dancing friends are obsessed with me, and they, like, they find me so fucking funny.”
— Steph Tolev 36:27

Desire for Parenthood The conversation touches on parenting, with Steph expressing her reluctance to have children, contrasting with other perspectives presented by Adam and Michael.

“I don't want one, so I'd have to have two.”
— Steph Tolev 49:44

Societal Observations and Critiques

Sweating and Social Tolerance Adam and Steph engage in a humorous yet pointed discussion about societal norms regarding men and women sweating, and how different racial groups are perceived based on their ability to sweat.

“In general, the person's physical appearance is a no fly zone for me because it's not really interesting...”
— Adam Carolla 07:18

Political and Social Commentary Later in the episode, Adam, Dawson, and Michael delve into topics like political behavior, media portrayal of race, and the effectiveness of process-driven versus action-oriented approaches in governance.

“In fact, Yakima, Nevada is going down right now.”
— Dawson 74:09

Current Events and News Highlights

Migrant Detention Facility in Florida The trio discusses the construction of a migrant detention facility in the Everglades, dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz," critiquing its practicality and security measures.

“You need a fence around this facility to keep the alligators out, not to keep the inmates in.”
— Adam Carolla 118:22

Media Representation and Public Figures They touch upon the portrayal of public figures in media, including the recent development in The Simpsons and its reception among fans.

“I just go, this is what I saw in my friend's rental house in Berkeley in 89.”
— Adam Carolla 111:12

Closing Remarks

As the episode nears its end, Adam promotes Steph’s live tour dates and Michael’s upcoming shows, encouraging listeners to support their endeavors. The conversation wraps up with light-hearted banter and reflections on the discussions held throughout the episode.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “This is sad losers on the Internet who clearly have been wronged by women.”
  — Steph Tolev 06:24

• “She can't even pump, you know? It's bizarre.”
  — Adam Carolla 47:58

• “You can transcend your nose, like Barbra Streisand did.”
  — Adam Carolla 10:23

• “I have nice legs. That's the only thing I'm like. You talk about my nose. I want.”
  — Steph Tolev 16:41

• “But for these females, you know, Hollywood, the mall, academia, every other outlets just dedicate, tell them Yas Queen and how awesome they are.”
  — Dawson 74:09

Conclusion

This episode of The Adam Carolla Show offers a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and sharp social commentary. Through candid conversations, Steph Tolev and Michael Malice provide listeners with insights into the challenges and triumphs of the comedy world, all while navigating broader societal issues. Adam Carolla masterfully steers the dialogue, ensuring a balanced and entertaining listen for both regular fans and newcomers.