Podcast Summary: "Dusty Slay Returns!" – Are You Garbage? Comedy Podcast
Episode Information
- Title: Dusty Slay Returns!
- Release Date: August 4, 2025
- Hosts: Kevin Ryan & H. Foley
- Guest: Dusty Slay
- Description: In this episode, Dusty Slay returns to the "Are You Garbage?" podcast, hosted by comedians Kevin Ryan and H. Foley. The show delves into Dusty's tumultuous past, his journey through comedy, and his ongoing struggle with personal challenges, all wrapped in the show’s signature trashy comedy style.
Introduction and Welcome [00:00 – 01:44]
The episode kicks off with H. Foley welcoming listeners to another edition of "Are You Garbage?" and introducing the hosts, Kevin Ryan and himself. The atmosphere is set with light-hearted banter about the show's premise—determining if comedians are "classy" or "trash."
- H. Foley [00:00]: "Welcome to another exciting edition of Are you garbage? The show where you find out if your favorite comedians are classy individuals or absolute trash."
Kevin briefly chimes in with enthusiasm before introducing their special guest, Dusty Slay, highlighting his latest Netflix special, "Wet Heat."
- Dusty Slay [01:17]: "Thanks for tuning in as always."
Dusty Slay’s Early Years and Legal Troubles [04:00 – 17:28]
Dusty shares anecdotes from his youth, detailing his attempts to join the army at 19 and the subsequent legal issues that derailed his plans. He recounts instances of underage drinking and marijuana possession, culminating in his arrest during a party raid.
- Kevin Ryan [04:30]: "I was ready to join the army. I was committed to that. I was running. I quit smoking cigarettes. I was ready."
Dusty humorously reflects on his interactions with law enforcement, including a memorable encounter where he attempted to hide from a cop by removing his keys from the ignition.
- Kevin Ryan [07:25]: "He just stayed until I did. Oh, I don't think he was ever gonna leave."
The discussion highlights Dusty's rebellious nature and his early struggles with authority, setting the stage for his comedic perspective on personal growth and setbacks.
Transition to Charleston and Personal Growth [20:03 – 29:47]
Dusty narrates his move from his hometown to Charleston, South Carolina, seeking a fresh start and new opportunities. He describes his attempts to integrate into a more refined city by taking improv classes and working various jobs, including at Office Depot and Papa John's.
- Kevin Ryan [20:24]: "And then I moved to Charleston, South Carolina."
Dusty's experiences in Charleston are marked by attempts to fit in, meet new people, and divert his focus from partying to more structured activities like comedy and improv.
- Kevin Ryan [29:35]: "In Charleston, it's a tourist destination. It's a beautiful city. You're listening to one of your favorite songs. You're like, this feels good."
Struggles with Alcohol and Relationships [29:47 – 44:33]
A significant portion of the conversation delves into Dusty's relationship with alcohol. He candidly discusses how drinking was intertwined with his social life, leading to several altercations and personal conflicts.
- Kevin Ryan [35:58]: "We don't condone that out there."
Dusty shares vivid stories of getting into fights at bars, driving under the influence, and the impact these behaviors had on his relationships and self-perception.
- Kevin Ryan [37:07]: "So what's the living situation? Are you on your own? You with your parents? With or with your mom?"
These narratives provide a raw and humorous look into the pitfalls of excessive partying and the challenges of personal responsibility.
Turning Point and Sobriety [53:57 – 66:17]
Dusty recounts a pivotal moment when a fellow party-goer gifted him an Alcoholics Anonymous book, prompting him to reflect on his drinking habits. Despite his initial resistance, this gesture marks the beginning of his path toward sobriety.
- Kevin Ryan [63:35]: "He gave me the big blue book, the Alcoholics Anonymous book."
He explains how reading the book helped him recognize patterns in his behavior, leading to an eventual decision to quit drinking in 2012.
- H. Foley [65:58]: "If you ever go on a boat, you're drinking."
This segment underscores Dusty's journey of self-improvement and the realization of the need to change his lifestyle for the better.
Comedic Pursuits and Current Endeavors [66:17 – End]
Transitioning from his personal struggles, Dusty discusses his foray into comedy, including failed attempts and learning experiences. He humorously describes an instance where he bombed during an open mic session, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the entertainment industry.
- Kevin Ryan [67:55]: "But I turn around and I see my friend and he's headed back out."
Dusty also highlights his ongoing projects, such as his second Netflix special "Wet Heat," a full-hour YouTube special, and his podcast "We're Having a Good Time Podcast."
- Dusty Slay [70:06]: "So dustyslay.com is my tour. I got, you know, I got. Now I got Wet Heat on Netflix."
The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks and well-wishes from Dusty to the hosts, reaffirming the camaraderie and mutual support within the comedy community.
- Dusty Slay [70:29]: "Thank you. You guys are the best."
- H. Foley [70:44]: "Peace."
Notable Quotes
- H. Foley [00:00]: "The show where you find out if your favorite comedians are classy individuals or absolute trash."
- Kevin Ryan [04:30]: "I was ready to join the army. I was committed to that."
- Kevin Ryan [07:25]: "He just stayed until I did. Oh, I don't think he was ever gonna leave."
- Dusty Slay [63:35]: "He gave me the big blue book, the Alcoholics Anonymous book."
- Kevin Ryan [37:07]: "So what's the living situation? Are you on your own? You with your parents? With or with your mom?"
- H. Foley [65:58]: "If you ever go on a boat, you're drinking."
Conclusion
"Dusty Slay Returns!" offers a blend of humor, candid storytelling, and reflective insights into Dusty's life journey. From his rocky start and legal issues to his battle with alcohol and eventual pursuit of comedy, Dusty's narrative is both entertaining and relatable. The hosts, Kevin Ryan and H. Foley, skillfully navigate the conversation, infusing it with their trademark comedic flair while allowing Dusty to share his vulnerabilities and triumphs. This episode not only entertains but also provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of the complexities behind a comedian's facade.
Key Takeaways:
- Personal Growth: Dusty's journey from rebellious youth to seeking sobriety underscores the theme of personal transformation.
- Humor in Adversity: The episode highlights how humor can be a coping mechanism for life's challenges.
- Community and Support: The interactions between Dusty and the hosts emphasize the importance of friendship and support in overcoming personal struggles.
- Comedy as Therapy: Dusty's experiences in comedy illustrate how pursuing one's passion can aid in self-discovery and healing.
Recommendation: This episode is a must-listen for fans of the "Are You Garbage?" podcast and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes lives of comedians. Dusty Slay's honest and humorous recounting of his experiences provides both laughs and meaningful reflections.