Black and White Advice – Episode Summary Title: Ester Steinberg & "What's America's Best & Worst City for Jews?" Hosts: Turner Sparks and Phil Duckett Guest: Esther Steinberg Release Date: April 29, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Black and White Advice, comedians Turner Sparks and Phil Duckett engage in a candid and comedic discussion with guest Esther Steinberg. The trio delves into topics surrounding race, anti-Semitism, parenting, and societal norms, all delivered with sharp humor and insightful commentary. The episode is titled "Ester Steinberg & 'What's America's Best & Worst City for Jews?'" and offers listeners a blend of laughter and thought-provoking conversations.

Key Discussion Points

1. Opening Remarks and Setting the Tone ([00:00]–[05:00])

The episode kicks off with Esther Steinberg making a bold statement:

[00:00] Esther Steinberg: "Do you want an easy life? Don't be Jewish, Martin. It's not for you."

Turner and Phil playfully reference Esther's remark, setting a humorous yet provocative tone for the conversation. The hosts introduce themselves and their unique dynamic as a white and black comedic duo tackling racial questions.

2. Patreon Goals and Promotional Banter ([05:00]–[07:00])

Turner and Phil briefly discuss their Patreon goals, aiming to reach $250 a month to fund future endeavors, including bringing Phil to a punk rock concert:

[01:56] Phil Duckett: "And we're trying to. Once we get to 250 dollars a month in Patreon subscriptions, we're taking Phil to his first punk rock concert. He's going to go mosh in the mosh pit and stage dive and we're filming."

Their lighthearted banter about stage diving and concert experiences adds a personal touch to the episode, engaging listeners with behind-the-scenes aspects of their show.

3. Esther Steinberg's Comedy Special – "Smear Campaign" ([05:00]–[12:00])

Esther introduces her new comedy special, "Smear Campaign," available on Amazon and Apple:

[05:37] Esther Steinberg: "Yes, Yes, I watched it."

She humorously critiques the commercialization of comedy:

[06:33] Phil Duckett: "Do not listen to that. I'm fighting for my life. Come to the shows."

Esther shares anecdotes about her father's unconventional bagel shop venture, blending humor with personal storytelling:

[08:38] Esther Steinberg: "My dad, in 1990, opened up a bagel shop right by the strip clubs... They were wearing lingerie. It was called the bagel boudoir."

Their discussions weave personal experiences with comedic insights, highlighting the intersection of business, family, and humor.

4. Parenting and Family Dynamics ([12:00]–[27:00])

Esther delves into her experiences with her father's political aspirations and the ensuing smear campaigns:

[12:32] Esther Steinberg: "Canvassing, wearing the T-shirts and all that. And then when he lost, I was pretty devastated. They would put ads that are like, Michael, don't vote. Don't vote for Michael Steinberg. You know he's a bagel pimp."

Turning to parenting, Esther and Phil exchange humorous takes on raising children amidst political and social challenges:

[20:08] Phil Duckett: "I put that in my will. When I can't wipe my own ass, it's time to pull the plug."

Their jokes about the trials of parenting offer relatable humor, balancing the episode's heavier themes with lightheartedness.

5. Anti-Semitism and Black-Jewish Relations ([27:00]–[39:00])

The conversation shifts to broader societal issues, particularly anti-Semitism and the relationship between Black and Jewish communities:

[28:28] Esther Steinberg: "Any hatred of any group of people is so vile and so disgusting, we cannot point fingers and say we hate this group."

Esther emphasizes the importance of allyship:

[37:28] Esther Steinberg: "All black people and Jewish people must be allies. They are allies to black people. Black people must be allies to Jewish people."

The hosts explore the complexities of racial and religious identities, using humor to address serious topics:

[36:17] Esther Steinberg: "You want a good life, an easy life? Don't be Jewish, Martin. It's not for you."

6. Best and Worst Cities for Jews in America ([39:00]–[42:00])

Responding to a listener's question about the best and worst cities for Jews in America, Esther and the hosts provide their candid (and comedic) insights:

[30:06] Esther Steinberg: "Worst. Why everyone's hate street Jews."

They discuss stereotypes and societal perceptions, blending humor with critical commentary:

[31:36] Esther Steinberg: "We don't want to. No one wanted to do this yucky money job. So the Jews were like, I guess we'll do it."

7. Final Thoughts and Conclusion ([42:00]–[44:50])

As the episode wraps up, Esther reflects on identity and societal challenges:

[41:17] Esther Steinberg: "My purpose on earth is to... my name Esther Steinberg sparks conversation."

The hosts conclude with a call to action for Patreon subscribers and tease upcoming content:

[44:50] Joe the Muscle Russell: "You've got a question but you're scared to ask. Just drop the boys a message..."

Notable Quotes

• Esther Steinberg ([00:00]): "Do you want an easy life? Don't be Jewish, Martin. It's not for you."

• Phil Duckett ([01:56]): "Once we get to 250 dollars a month in Patreon subscriptions, we're taking Phil to his first punk rock concert. He's going to go mosh in the mosh pit and stage dive and we're filming."

• Esther Steinberg ([08:38]): "My dad, in 1990, opened up a bagel shop right by the strip clubs... They were wearing lingerie. It was called the bagel boudoir."

• Phil Duckett ([20:08]): "I put that in my will. When I can't wipe my own ass, it's time to pull the plug."

• Esther Steinberg ([36:17]): "You want a good life, an easy life? Don't be Jewish, Martin. It's not for you."

• Esther Steinberg ([41:17]): "My purpose on earth is to... my name Esther Steinberg sparks conversation."

Conclusion

This episode of Black and White Advice masterfully balances humor with insightful discussions on race, religion, and societal norms. Esther Steinberg's comedic perspective, combined with Turner Sparks and Phil Duckett's dynamic hosting, provides listeners with both laughter and reflection. By addressing sensitive topics through comedy, the hosts foster a space for open dialogue and understanding, making this episode both entertaining and meaningful for audiences seeking thoughtful humor.