Podcast Episode Summary: “Michelle Buteau Is Who She Wanted to See on TV as a Kid”
Podcast Information:
- Title: Good One: A Podcast About Jokes
- Host: Jesse David Fox, Senior Editor at Vulture.com
- Guest: Michelle Buteau
- Release Date: June 13, 2025
1. Introduction
In the episode titled “Michelle Buteau Is Who She Wanted to See on TV as a Kid,” Jesse David Fox welcomes comedian and actress Michelle Buteau to discuss her groundbreaking comedy special, her role in the Netflix sitcom "Survival of the Thickest," and her unique approach to tackling diverse topics on stage. The conversation is filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and insightful discussions about representation in comedy.
2. Hilarious Personal Anecdotes
The episode kicks off with Michelle sharing some of her funniest recent experiences. She recounts losing her wallet on a flight, leading to a humorous yet poignant reflection on her age and lifestyle:
“I'm 47, 21 from the waist down. You'll start that rumor. And I have to like, I'm like an 18-year-old that, like, got drunk and lost its wallet or something.” (01:00)
Michelle also humorously describes settling for a smoothie by showing her left breast to secure her order:
“I had to show my left tit.” (01:57)
3. Filming the Comedy Special at Radio City Music Hall
Michelle delves into the significance of filming her comedy special at the iconic Radio City Music Hall, the first female comedian to do so. She explains the intentional choice of venue to stand out in a saturated comedy landscape:
“I want to look like mine... it should feel familiar, but also, like, kind of exotic.” (03:00)
She discusses working with producer Wanda Sykes to create a unique ambiance that reflects a New York City night out, rather than the typical generic settings seen in many specials:
“We can make my tickets affordable because I know what that's like to stretch your dollar.” (08:21)
Michelle highlights the challenges of shooting a special in a large venue with over 6,000 seats, deciding to perform a one-take show to maintain authenticity:
“I took a chance on myself. I'm like, it's gonna be a one take.” (10:26)
4. Representation and Diversity in Comedy
A significant portion of the conversation centers on diversity and representation in the comedy industry. Michelle emphasizes the importance of having diverse voices on stage and how her presence at Radio City serves as a reference point for aspiring comedians who rarely see themselves represented:
“Growing up, I didn't know that I could, like, do anything on camera because I never saw anyone like me.” (16:45)
She critiques traditional comedy venues for not being inclusive and discusses the necessity of taking responsibility for one’s platform to foster a more diverse community:
“We have to start speaking up... that's really dangerous for everybody.” (36:16)
5. Experiences in Various Comedy Venues
Michelle shares her experiences performing in different comedy circuits, including the Therapy gay lounge and Uptown black rooms. These experiences not only honed her comedic skills but also built her confidence and connection with diverse communities:
“If you could work a black room... you can make money. Word.” (19:43)
She describes the tight-knit communities in these venues and how they provided safe spaces to experiment and grow as a comedian:
“It was like a beautiful community. Like, I still talked to the managers... it just felt like a safe haven.” (18:11)
6. Storytelling and Sensitive Topics in Comedy
Michelle discusses her approach to incorporating personal stories and sensitive topics into her comedy. She shares the creation of her dance bit, born from playful interactions with friends:
“It's my free therapy. And I've always been that bitch. Even when I'm cooking, I'm dancing.” (13:26)
A notable segment involves her Theragun joke, where she navigates sexual humor with sensitivity:
“Do you like to get your pussy beat up like that?” (29:59)
Michelle addresses the balance between making jokes that are funny and respectful, particularly when referencing controversial figures like Dave Chappelle:
“We can tell jokes and stories and not disparage a whole community. We can do that.” (36:11)
7. Career Evolution and Personal Growth
Reflecting on her career trajectory, Michelle talks about her breakthrough in 2018 when she began to embrace her authentic self both on and off stage. She highlights how personal milestones, such as becoming a parent via surrogate, influenced her comedic voice and resilience:
“Life has always felt like I'm gonna take my own way to get somewhere anyway.” (45:20)
Michelle emphasizes the importance of trusting her instincts and the support from friends like Ali (Allie), who encouraged her to pursue her comedic potential:
“Ali kept saying, you're gonna be huge. You're gonna be huge. Just keep going.” (49:48)
8. Building a Connection with the Audience
Michelle explains her philosophy of allowing the audience to love her by being open and authentic. She contrasts her approach with many comedians who use comedy as a defensive barrier:
“Showing up for people the way someone hasn't shown up for you.” (60:03)
She shares touching feedback from fans, illustrating the profound impact her comedy has on their lives:
“DMs from people who are like, I didn't think I was worthy of love. Now I'm wearing color.” (60:48)
9. Closing Segment: The Laughing Round
In the final segment, aptly named “The Laughing Round,” Michelle and Jesse engage in a light-hearted exchange of jokes and anecdotes. Michelle shares her favorite jokes and fun memories, including a tribute to Joan Rivers:
“What's up, lady at Citibank? I hope you got your good bra on, sis.” (62:42)
She recounts her interaction with Melissa Rivers, expressing admiration and humor:
“She was like, mom always said it's a family business. Buck up.” (64:59)
10. Conclusion: Insights and Lessons
Throughout the episode, Michelle Buteau offers invaluable insights into the comedy industry, the importance of representation, and the power of authenticity. Her journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a trailblazer in comedy serves as an inspiring testament to her resilience and commitment to making others laugh while fostering a sense of community and acceptance.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- “I'm 47, 21 from the waist down. You'll start that rumor.” (01:00)
- “I had to show my left tit.” (01:57)
- “I took a chance on myself. I'm like, it's gonna be a one take.” (10:26)
- “Growing up, I didn't know that I could, like, do anything on camera because I never saw anyone like me.” (16:45)
- “We can tell jokes and stories and not disparage a whole community. We can do that.” (36:11)
- “Ali kept saying, you're gonna be huge. You're gonna be huge. Just keep going.” (49:48)
- “Showing up for people the way someone hasn't shown up for you.” (60:03)
- “What's up, lady at Citibank? I hope you got your good bra on, sis.” (62:42)
This episode of Good One: A Podcast About Jokes offers a deep dive into Michelle Buteau’s multifaceted career, her commitment to diversity in comedy, and her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Through laughter and candid conversations, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of what makes Michelle Buteau a standout comedian and advocate for inclusive storytelling.