Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out: Episode 156 – Stephen Colbert Returns: A Gift from the Comedy Gods

Release Date: January 13, 2025

In this compelling episode of Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out, comedian Mike Birbiglia welcomes the iconic Stephen Colbert to dissect the intricacies of comedy, improv, and the delicate balance of hosting a late-night talk show. Their candid conversation delves deep into personal experiences, creative processes, and the profound connections that shape their comedic journeys.

1. Improv Roots and Mentorship

Stephen Colbert opens the discussion by reflecting on his early days in improv:

"[00:00] Stephen Colbert: My first person I like, studied in improv with was Del Close. [...] your job is to open up all the stops on the organ."

Del Close, a legendary figure in the improv community, profoundly influenced Colbert's approach. Stephen emphasizes the philosophy of letting the "universe channel through you," highlighting the spiritual and almost ritualistic aspects of performing.

2. Balancing Hosting and Creativity

Transitioning to his role as a talk show host, Stephen Colbert shares insights into managing the multifaceted responsibilities of hosting:

"[07:58] Stephen Colbert: There's the writing job, there's a producing job, and then there's kind of the show business job..."

Stephen discusses the relentless pace of decision-making on set, likening his daily tasks to "making like maybe 15 decisions an hour." This constant stream of choices requires a disciplined approach to maintain the show's quality and cohesiveness.

3. The Essence of Connecting with the Audience

A significant portion of their conversation centers on the importance of authentic connection with the audience:

"[22:03] Stephen Colbert: And now I'm doing the show for the room, and the camera there captures it. So it's different vibe."

Stephen emphasizes that beyond the scripted jokes and performances, the genuine interaction and community-building with the audience are paramount. This connection transforms a series of jokes into a shared experience, fostering a sense of communion between the performer and the viewers.

4. Personal Anecdotes and Emotional Depth

Both comedians open up about their personal lives, exploring how emotions influence their comedy:

"[28:21] Stephen Colbert: Is there a song that doesn't make me cry? [...] I'm not a crying person."

Stephen reveals his vulnerability, discussing how certain songs evoke deep emotional responses tied to his past and personal losses. This introspection showcases the profound ways in which personal experiences shape comedic material.

5. Navigating Religious Themes in Comedy

The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as they explore the intersection of religion and humor:

"[43:05] Stephen Colbert: Divine wisdom practiced your art for none other than God himself."

Stephen recounts an interaction with the Pope, highlighting the humorous yet respectful contemplation of making light of divine subjects. He draws parallels between religious teachings and his own comedic philosophies, illustrating how faith and comedy can coexist thoughtfully.

6. The Art and Challenges of Improv Collaborations

Mike and Stephen discuss the dynamic nature of improvisation and collaborative performances:

"[26:06] Stephen Colbert: Right. doing object work and scene work and characters."

They delve into the spontaneity of improv, emphasizing the importance of listening and building upon each other's cues. This segment underscores the delicate balance between planning and spontaneity inherent in successful improvisational comedy.

7. Charitable Endeavors and Giving Back

Concluding their conversation, Stephen Colbert and Mike Birbiglia highlight the significance of supporting meaningful causes:

"[45:55] Stephen Colbert: I'm such an enormous fan of what Jose Andres and World Central Kitchen is doing..."

They discuss their commitment to charities like World Central Kitchen and Radio Lollipop, emphasizing the role of comedians in leveraging their platforms for positive social impact. This segment serves as a heartfelt reminder of the responsibility that comes with influence and visibility.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen Colbert on Del Close's influence:
  "[00:00] Stephen Colbert: [...] your job is to open up all the stops on the organ."

• Stephen Colbert on decision-making as a host:
  "[03:46] Stephen Colbert: [...] I don't have a permanent guest host. No."

• Stephen Colbert on emotional connections in comedy:
  "[22:03] Stephen Colbert: [...] we are a shadow of the news."

• Stephen Colbert on the Pope and comedy:
  "[43:05] Stephen Colbert: Divine wisdom practiced your art for none other than God himself."

Conclusion

Episode 156 of Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out offers listeners an intimate glimpse into Stephen Colbert’s world, blending humor with heartfelt revelations. Their dialogue not only underscores the challenges and triumphs of crafting comedy but also celebrates the deeper connections that make their work resonate. For those seeking inspiration or a deeper understanding of the comedic craft, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and genuine camaraderie.

Tune in to Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out for more enlightening conversations with your favorite comedians and creators, as they work out original material and tackle both tried-and-true and uncomfortable topics.