Podcast Summary: Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out – Episode 161: Nathan Lane Returns: The Safest Thing You Can Do Is Take a Risk

Introduction

In Episode 161 of “Working It Out,” released on February 24, 2025, comedian and host Mike Birbiglia welcomes the legendary actor Nathan Lane back to the studio. This episode delves deep into Nathan’s illustrious career, his personal anecdotes, and his perspectives on acting and friendship. Highlighting Nathan’s latest projects, including his upcoming Hulu series “Mid Century Modern,” the conversation offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the life of one of America’s great actors.

The Essence of Friendship in Show Business

The episode begins with Mike expressing his admiration for Nathan, emphasizing their long-standing friendship and Nathan’s pivotal role in his career. Nathan reflects on building friendships in the entertainment industry, stating at [03:00], “You've been doing comedy a long time so you build a large Rolodex of friends.” The discussion navigates the complexities of maintaining meaningful relationships amidst the hustle of show business, with both hosts acknowledging the unique challenges and rewards that come with it.

Career Highlights and Memorable Roles

Nathan shares insights into his diverse body of work, highlighting standout roles in films like “Beau is Afraid” and “Dick’s the Musical.” Mike enthusiastically recommends these films, mentioning at [14:05], “it was fun for a minute,” referring to Nathan’s performance. Nathan delves into his experiences working with acclaimed directors such as Ari Aster, recounting the creative process and the unexpected twists during filming. He elaborates on his collaboration with Joaquin Phoenix in “Beau is Afraid,” describing the dynamic on set and the depth of their performances.

Collaborations with Legends: Robin Williams and Mike Nichols

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Nathan’s experiences working with iconic figures like Robin Williams and Mike Nichols. Reflecting on “The Birdcage,” Nathan addresses sensitive topics, including the use of outdated language in the script. At [25:22], he shares, “He said, but dear boy, could you just do one as written? Oh, my God, as written.” Nathan discusses the challenges of navigating creative differences while maintaining professionalism.

Nathan fondly remembers Robin Williams, describing him as “very professional” and “an incredible person” at [32:00]. He recounts moments of Robin’s generosity and support on set, painting a picture of a truly collaborative and uplifting working environment. These reflections not only highlight the personal bonds formed in the industry but also underscore the profound impact these relationships have on one’s career and personal growth.

Navigating the Acting Landscape: Challenges and Choices

The dialogue shifts to the intricacies of acting and the importance of taking creative risks. Nathan emphasizes authenticity in performance, stating at [40:18], “the through line is you're trying to be truthful with it.” The hosts discuss the balance between adhering to a script and allowing spontaneity, with Nathan sharing his approach to embracing unexpected moments during filming. This philosophy echoes throughout the episode, encapsulated by Mike’s favorite quote from Nathan at [55:51]: “The safest thing you can do is take a risk.”

New Ventures: “Mid Century Modern”

Nathan introduces his latest project, the Hulu series “Mid Century Modern,” detailing his role as Bunny Schneiderman, a wealthy manufacturer of women’s bras. He describes the fast-paced development process and the collaborative spirit of working with director Jimmy Burrows. Nathan shares a heartfelt moment regarding the passing of co-star Linda Lavin, recounting her final days and the profound loss felt by the cast and crew. This segment underscores the deep emotional connections formed during long-term projects and the impact of personal loss on professional endeavors.

Personal Stories and Anecdotes

Throughout the episode, both Mike and Nathan interweave personal stories that humanize their professional personas. Nathan reminisces about his early days in theater, including playing Benjamin Franklin in “1776” and Nathan Detroit in “Guys and Dolls,” which ultimately inspired his stage name. At [13:44], he humorously recounts, “I'll be Benjamin or Nathan Lane,” highlighting the serendipitous nature of his career path.

Mike shares a pivotal moment from his appearance on “The View,” where Joy Behar’s endorsement served as a turning point in his relationship with his mother regarding his comedy career. Nathan listens and provides supportive commentary, reinforcing the theme of familial support and affirmation in creative pursuits.

Philosophies on Acting and Risk-Taking

The conversation delves into the philosophical aspects of acting, with both hosts advocating for taking risks to achieve authentic performances. Nathan elaborates on his approach to embodying characters, seeking the “humanity in it” and the balance between light and darkness in storytelling. Mike echoes this sentiment, reinforcing the idea that embracing uncertainty leads to meaningful and impactful work.

Concluding Reflections

As the episode draws to a close, Mike and Nathan express mutual admiration and gratitude for their enduring friendship. Nathan acknowledges Mike’s significant influence on his career, while Mike lauds Nathan as “one of the greats of the greats.” They encourage listeners to engage with Nathan’s latest projects and reflect on the shared insights about creativity, risk-taking, and the importance of supportive relationships in the world of entertainment.

Notable Quotes

• Nathan Lane at [03:38]: “How do you do well? You've been doing comedy a long time so you build a large Rolodex of friends.”

• Nathan Lane at [25:22]: “He said, but dear boy, could you just do one as written? Oh, my God, as written.”

• Robin Williams at [32:00]: “Robin was very professional… he was just an incredible person, and I'm lucky that I got to work with him.”

• Nathan Lane at [55:51]: “The safest thing you can do is take a risk.”

Final Thoughts

Episode 161 of “Working It Out” with Nathan Lane offers a comprehensive exploration of an actor’s journey through friendship, professional collaborations, and the courage to take creative risks. Mike Birbiglia masterfully navigates the conversation, allowing listeners to uncover the layers of Nathan’s experiences and philosophies. This episode serves as an inspiring testament to the enduring power of friendship and the relentless pursuit of authenticity in the arts.