Podcast Title: Intentionally Disturbing
Host: Dr. Leslie
Guest: Samson Krupin
Episode: Samson Crouppen: Secret Service Sam
Release Date: June 19, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Intentionally Disturbing, hosted by Dr. Leslie, listeners are introduced to Samson Krupin, a comedian known online as Secret Service Sam. While Samson has garnered fame through his humorous take on Secret Service scenarios on platforms like TikTok, this episode delves deeper into his personal journey, overcoming adversity, and navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Overcoming Bullying

Samson opens up about his tumultuous school years, marked by severe bullying and learning disabilities. Growing up in a special school district with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), he faced challenges such as dyslexia and behavioral disorders. Reflecting on these experiences, Samson shares a poignant memory from fourth grade:

[15:20] "I beat him up. Like, I was hitting him, kicking him."

This moment of standing up for himself marked a turning point, fostering resilience and shaping his comedic voice. Unlike many comedians who struggle with personal demons, Samson attributes his stability to a supportive family and long-term relationships.

Comedy Career and Developing 'Secret Service Sam'

Samson's foray into comedy began with Second City in Chicago in the late '90s. Despite his knack for humor, he found the environment challenging, observing that many of his peers grappled with their own issues beneath their comedic exteriors. Transitioning to Los Angeles, Samson initially aimed for an acting career, even working alongside future stars like Jordan Peele. However, it was his comedic sketches that truly resonated with audiences.

The persona Secret Service Sam emerged from a playful sketch that quickly went viral. Samson recounts how a short joke about Secret Service agents, inspired by a real incident involving Donald Trump, spiraled into a significant online presence:

[04:09] "I'm really a comedian and is sitting there in the overflow room watching this trial play out, giving us his honest reactions. And it has been very entertaining."

This character allowed him to blend humor with current events, earning him over a hundred thousand loyal followers within two months.

Personal Life and Mental Health

Throughout the conversation, Samson emphasizes the importance of mental health and personal well-being. He shares candid insights into his struggles with depression, despite maintaining a positive and humorous exterior. Balancing his roles as a husband and father, Samson highlights how grounding relationships have been pivotal in his journey:

[09:58] "I've been in this business for 20 years and you can still feel like a dog. But I've also realized I'm very unique and different from a lot of comedians..."

His dedication to his family contrasts with the often tumultuous lives of many in the comedy scene, underscoring his unique path to success.

Perspectives on Race, Privilege, and Identity

A significant portion of the episode explores Samson's views on race and white privilege. He articulates the disparities faced by people of color, especially in interactions with authorities:

[25:48] "Most white people just can't let go of whiteness or not realize that to admit white privilege does not mean anything changes when you get pulled over."

Samson shares personal anecdotes, such as a traffic stop with his mother, to illustrate systemic biases. He also touches on the importance of understanding and respecting diverse identities, advocating for empathy and open dialogue.

Additionally, Samson discusses his own exploration of gender identity, describing himself as feeling "half man, half woman" and the challenges of expressing non-binary feelings within societal expectations.

Navigating Hollywood and Relationships with Fellow Comedians

Samson reflects on his relationships with prominent figures like Tiffany Haddish and Jordan Peele, noting the complexities of maintaining friendships amidst divergent career trajectories. While witnessing peers achieve meteoric success, Samson acknowledges the hard lessons learned about fame and personal growth:

[24:53] "She’s one of the biggest stars in the world... that's a hard lesson to learn."

He also comments on the dynamics of white privilege in the industry, emphasizing that success stories like Adam Sandler and Kevin Hart are not universally replicable, especially for Black female comedians who face additional barriers.

Current Projects and Future Aspirations

Currently based in New York, Samson is covering the high-profile trial of USA versus Sean Combs. Balancing his roles as an independent journalist and comedian, he offers real-time reactions from the courtroom, blending factual reporting with his signature humor. This endeavor showcases his versatility and commitment to addressing serious topics through a comedic lens.

Looking forward, Samson aspires to expand his comedic repertoire into acting, drawing inspiration from icons like Jim Carrey and Will Ferrell. He also maintains a clothing line and prepares for future projects, ensuring a multifaceted career that extends beyond social media fame.

Resilience and Advice for Aspiring Comedians

In closing, Samson imparts valuable advice to aspiring comedians and creatives:

[33:24] "Start every day being grateful. Thankful for the breath I'm breathing... Just stay positive."

He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and maintaining a support system. Despite the challenges and negativity that often accompany a career in entertainment, Samson's unwavering dedication and optimistic outlook serve as an inspiring testament to his resilience.

Conclusion

This episode of Intentionally Disturbing offers an intimate glimpse into Samson Krupin's life, blending humor with profound personal insights. From overcoming childhood adversity to navigating the complexities of modern comedy and race relations, Samson's story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of laughter as a healing tool. Listeners are left inspired by his journey and encouraged to embrace their unique paths with courage and positivity.

Notable Quotes:

• Samson Krupin [04:16]: "I'm really a comedian and is sitting there in the overflow room watching this trial play out, giving us his honest reactions."
• Samson Krupin [15:20]: "I beat him up. Like, I was hitting him, kicking him."
• Samson Krupin [25:48]: "Most white people just can't let go of whiteness or not realize that to admit white privilege does not mean anything changes when you get pulled over."
• Samson Krupin [33:24]: "Start every day being grateful. Thankful for the breath I'm breathing... Just stay positive."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting Samson Krupin's multifaceted life and career while providing key insights and memorable quotes for listeners.