Podcast Summary: Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out – Episode 149. Bridget Everett: The Star of HBO’s Somebody Somewhere on Risking It All

Introduction

In Episode 149 of Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out, comedian Mike Birbiglia welcomes the vibrant and multifaceted Bridget Everett. Known for her electrifying performances and her acclaimed HBO series Somebody Somewhere, Bridget delves deep into her creative journey, personal growth, and the challenges of pushing artistic boundaries. This episode, released on October 28, 2024, offers listeners an intimate look into Bridget's world, blending humor with heartfelt insights.

Career Beginnings and Influences

Bridget Everett shares her early days performing in karaoke bars and waiting tables, illustrating the humble beginnings that shaped her career. She recounts an encounter at Sing Sing Karaoke in the East Village where Jason Egan, the artistic director at Ars Nova, encouraged her to transform her karaoke performances into a formal show. This pivotal moment, though not a dramatic life-changing event, set Bridget on a path to harness her unique blend of singing and comedy.

Bridget Everett [05:37]: "I've always had a hard time figuring out how to channel what feels good because I don't feel like that. Someone's help was essential in putting me on a successful course."

Bridget cites Bette Midler and Lucille Ball as major influences, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and individuality in her work. She admires performers who remain true to themselves, regardless of trends or external pressures.

Creative Process and Authenticity

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Bridget's commitment to originality. She explains her approach to writing and performing, focusing on personal expression rather than seeking to shock. Her songs, often humorously titled like "Titties," aim to celebrate rather than provoke.

Bridget Everett [08:16]: "It's not about being shocking. It's about letting people know, like, who cares? Let it go. Tits, boobs, can holes. Who cares?"

Mike and Bridget discuss the balance between scripted material and improvisation. Bridget highlights the importance of allowing her personality to shine through in her performances, ensuring that each show remains fresh and true to her essence.

Emotional Connection and Personal Growth

Bridget delves into the emotional depth of her work, revealing that grief profoundly influences her performances. She shares personal stories, including the loss of her dog Poppy and the passing of her sister and father, explaining how these experiences inform her art.

Bridget Everett [31:38]: "A lot of it, oddly enough, is grief. The things you can do to lift yourself out of grief, accepting loss and all those things."

The conversation touches on the struggle to accept and embrace the love and support from others, highlighting Bridget's journey toward vulnerability and openness both on and off the stage.

Notable Experiences and Anecdotes

Bridget recounts memorable moments from her career, including performing with Patti LuPone at the New York Philharmonic—a dream come true that underscores the unpredictable nature of success.

Bridget Everett [10:19]: "I was at Chase Bank depositing my tips from my waiting tables job... And Scott and Patti called, and they're like, we're having a glass of Prosecco and we want you to sing with Patti at Carnegie Hall."

She also shares humorous and candid stories about audience reactions, such as instances where individuals have walked out of her shows with strong negative feedback. These anecdotes reveal Bridget's resilience and ability to maintain her authenticity despite mixed responses.

Advice for Creators

Throughout the episode, Bridget offers valuable advice for fellow comedians and creators. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, focusing on what genuinely makes you laugh, and not being overly concerned with being clever or relatable in the conventional sense.

Bridget Everett [25:39]: "Do what makes you you. Every time I've focused more on who I am and what makes me laugh, it's always the best way for me."

She discusses the significance of collaborative creativity and the necessity of trusting one's instincts, even when facing self-doubt or external pressures.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Bridget advocating for a nonprofit organization close to her heart, True Colors Flint Hills, which supports LGBTQIA youth in her hometown of Manhattan, Kansas. This final segment underscores Bridget's commitment to giving back and fostering community support.

Mike Birbiglia wraps up the conversation by highlighting Bridget's remarkable journey and encouraging listeners to engage with her work.

Mike Birbiglia: "Bridget Everett, thank you so much for coming."

Notable Quotes

• Bridget Everett [05:37]: "I've always had a hard time figuring out how to channel what feels good because I don't feel like that. Someone's help was essential in putting me on a successful course."

• Bridget Everett [08:16]: "It's not about being shocking. It's about letting people know, like, who cares? Let it go. Tits, boobs, can holes. Who cares?"

• Bridget Everett [10:19]: "I was at Chase Bank depositing my tips from my waiting tables job... And Scott and Patti called, and they're like, we're having a glass of Prosecco and we want you to sing with Patti at Carnegie Hall."

• Bridget Everett [25:39]: "Do what makes you you. Every time I've focused more on who I am and what makes me laugh, it's always the best way for me."

• Bridget Everett [31:38]: "A lot of it, oddly enough, is grief. The things you can do to lift yourself out of grief, accepting loss and all those things."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Working It Out offers a comprehensive look into Bridget Everett's artistic ethos, personal challenges, and the unyielding pursuit of authenticity. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for Bridget's contributions to comedy and performance art. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, this episode provides valuable insights into the creative process and the human experiences that fuel it.

Connect with Bridget Everett:

• Instagram: Bridget Everett
• Watch her show: Somebody Somewhere on HBO and Max

Stay Tuned:

For more engaging conversations, subscribe to Working It Out on Apple Podcasts and follow Mike Birbiglia on social media. Don’t miss upcoming episodes featuring other incredible guests like Hannah Gadsby, Lynn Miranda, and Jack Antonoff.

Note: Advertisements, introductions, and closing segments have been omitted to focus solely on the substantive content of the conversation.