Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona: Episode Summary (06-27-25)
Guest: Duncan Trussell
Location: Tempe Improv
Release Date: June 27, 2025

Introduction and Guest Welcome

In this episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness, host John Holmberg welcomes comedian and podcaster Duncan Trussell to the Tempe Improv studio. The conversation kicks off with Holmberg humorously suggesting the inclusion of Duncan's social life, leading into discussions about Duncan’s podcasting journey and experiences in the comedy world.

John Holmberg [01:44]: “Still streaming Holmberg's Morning Sickness online at 98kupd.com makes me happy. Would you bring Duncan Trussell here? But my God, you need a better class of friends, Duncan.”

Duncan Trussell [01:58]: “I know. I'm working on it. It's hard, man. That's what you get on Grind.”

Podcasting Journey and Celebrity Interactions

Duncan shares insights into the early days of his podcasting career, reflecting on the unexpected growth and international reach of his show. The hosts delve into the phenomenon of podcasts gaining popularity in unlikely regions, such as Africa, highlighting the global impact of digital media.

Duncan Trussell [09:06]: “We started podcasting when you would have to explain to someone what the hell it was. And when there were iPods, you know where that was listened to.”

John Holmberg [10:04]: “Crazier part. This show has a podcast that goes out after. We're doing very well in Africa. I still can't wrap my head around that.”

Personal Health and Resilience

A significant portion of the episode revolves around Duncan's personal battle with testicular cancer. He candidly discusses his diagnosis, treatment, and the psychological impact of facing a life-threatening illness. The conversation underscores the importance of early detection and the often-overlooked vulnerability of individuals.

John Holmberg [14:05]: “Holmberg's Morning Sickness. How long did you ignore it? Are you a doctor guy? Because I know I would have [testicular cancer] for probably a year before anybody else would.”

Duncan Trussell [14:15]: “Yeah, exactly. So that is what's so sad about it. Like, is that it's so treatable.”

They explore the stigma and fears associated with cancer, emphasizing the importance of open conversations and timely medical consultations.

Philosophical Musings and Simulation Theory

Transitioning from personal experiences, Duncan and John delve into deeper philosophical discussions. They speculate on the nature of reality, pondering whether life is a simulated construct and the implications of artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence. The conversation touches on the origins of computer technology, linking historical esoteric philosophies with modern advancements in AI.

Duncan Trussell [22:06]: “Or don't kill God.”

John Holmberg [24:06]: “We made it. And eventually it will become our God, because we're so on a quest to find it. We just built it.”

They articulate a speculative theory that humanity's quest to understand creation might lead to the creation of an entity more intelligent than its creator, blurring the lines between deity and artificial constructs.

AI and Human Relationships

The hosts discuss the evolving relationship between humans and AI, highlighting both the conveniences and ethical dilemmas introduced by intelligent machines. They touch upon scenarios where AI becomes integral to personal lives, citing an anecdote of someone proposing to ChatGPT, thereby illustrating the deep emotional bonds humans might form with AI entities.

Duncan Trussell [29:20]: “And now I've got to download that feature, instant erase.”

John Holmberg [31:01]: “We hope. Because porn has to advance it. There's where I'm scared when porn gets a hold of AI and says, oh, we figured it out for mass consumption.”

The discussion extends to concerns about privacy, data security, and the potential for AI to manipulate human emotions and behaviors.

Technological Afterlife and Ethical Considerations

A poignant segment addresses the concept of handling technology post-mortem. The conversation explores the ethical implications of interacting with a deceased person’s digital footprint, such as smartphones and AI avatars, raising questions about consent, memory preservation, and emotional well-being of the living.

John Holmberg [32:38]: “Just. It's such a weird future because what do you do with a family Android? What do you do with like, do you bury it? Do you erase it?”

Duncan Trussell [32:53]: “That's going to be in my end. I'm putting that feature, instant erase.”

They propose innovative solutions, such as automated shutoffs for devices upon detecting a user’s death, to safeguard personal information and prevent unauthorized access.

Reflection on Life's Fragility and Humor

The episode concludes with a reflective yet humorous discussion on the unpredictability of life and the coping mechanisms individuals employ to navigate tragic events. Duncan emphasizes the importance of cherishing relationships and communicating love before it's too late.

Duncan Trussell [35:05]: “Call your parents and tell them you love them. Cause they die on you like that.”

This heartfelt advice underscores the show's blend of comedy with profound life lessons, encouraging listeners to prioritize meaningful connections.

Final Thoughts and Upcoming Shows

Before wrapping up, Duncan shares his upcoming performances at the Tempe Improv, inviting listeners to attend and experience his unique comedic perspective firsthand. The hosts exchange light-hearted banter, reinforcing the camaraderie that defines Holmberg's Morning Sickness.

Duncan Trussell [35:46]: “Great meeting you. Thanks for having me.”

John Holmberg [35:46]: “Duncan TRUSSELL, everybody. It's 98, Arizona's most powerful rock radio station.”

Notable Quotes:

• Duncan Trussell [06:39]: “And now you know, so. But that is a problem, is, like, it's easy to...”

• John Holmberg [17:55]: “You've got Tourette's. We're happy with it. Trust me. I got it, too.”

• Duncan Trussell [22:04]: “Or don't kill God.”

• John Holmberg [35:05]: “Call your parents and tell them you love them. Cause they die on you like that.”

This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness masterfully intertwines humor with deep philosophical inquiry, personal health narratives, and speculative discussions on technology and existence. Duncan Trussell's candid storytelling and thought-provoking insights provide listeners with both laughter and contemplation, embodying the show's mission to entertain, question, and disturb in equal measure.