Podcast Summary: Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out – Episode 167. Jessica Kirson: She's the Man

In Episode 167 of Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out, host Mike Birbiglia engages in an insightful and heartfelt conversation with renowned comedian Jessica Kirson. This episode delves deep into Jessica's comedic journey, personal struggles, family dynamics, and the intricate balance between vulnerability and humor. Below is a detailed summary capturing the essence of their discussion, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for key moments.

1. Introduction and Background

Mike Birbiglia kicks off the conversation by expressing his admiration for Jessica Kirson, highlighting her prowess on Instagram through her Crowdberg videos and her upcoming Hulu special titled I'm the Man. He also shares updates about his new special, The Good Life, which is set to release on Netflix on May 26th, and his upcoming tour with John Mulaney, Nick Kroll, and Fred Armisen.

Notable Quote:

• "The algorithm made your comedy reach the people who wanted your comedy. And it's so exciting." — Mike Birbiglia [04:47]

2. Dealing with Hecklers

Jessica recounts a particularly intense experience with a heckler at the Comedy Cellar. Feeling burnt out and frustrated, she encounters a disruptive audience member whose derogatory comments push her to her limits. This confrontation not only showcases her ability to handle adversity on stage but also reflects her personal struggles with anger and vulnerability.

Notable Quote:

• "Any man that would say what you just said to me hates women. What did your mother do to you?" — Jessica Kirson [11:58]

3. Family and Personal Background

Jessica opens up about her unique family dynamics, particularly her mother's role as a therapist who conducted sessions in their home. She also touches upon her relationship with her stepbrother, Zach Braff, and the influence of her upbringing on her comedic style. The conversation delves into how these familial interactions shaped her approach to comedy and personal growth.

Notable Quote:

• "We lived in Jersey. We lived in a house where she saw clients in the basement. And it was insane." — Jessica Kirson [22:38]

4. Comedy Career and Experiences

The duo discusses the gritty beginnings of a comedy career, emphasizing the importance of performing in challenging venues like laundromats to hone one's craft. Jessica shares anecdotes about performing in diverse settings, including corporate events and Orthodox Jewish gatherings, highlighting the varied challenges comedians face depending on their audience.

Notable Quote:

• "We did laundromats." — Jessica Kirson [06:32]

• "It's like the shared area in a mental institution. Someone's just talking to themselves. Someone's crying. Someone's like, people are shouting at each other." — Jessica Kirson [14:18]

5. Impact of Social Media on Career Growth

Jessica reflects on how social media platforms have revolutionized her reach and connection with audiences. Unlike traditional pathways in the comedy industry, which often delay recognition, social media allowed her to bypass certain barriers and connect directly with fans, amplifying her comedic voice.

Notable Quote:

• "The audience doesn't lie." — Jessica Kirson [04:52]

6. Authenticity and Vulnerability in Comedy

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the balance between being authentic and maintaining comedic allure on stage. Jessica emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in her performances, sharing how personal traumas and fears are integral to her comedic material. They explore the therapeutic aspects of comedy and how it serves as a medium for personal expression and healing.

Notable Quote:

• "I'm a comic who happens to be a lesbian." — Jessica Kirson [20:12]

7. Writing and Developing Material

Jessica and Mike delve into their creative processes, discussing how they ideate, test, and refine their comedic material. They highlight the iterative nature of comedy writing, where initial ideas often undergo significant transformation through performance and audience feedback.

Notable Quote:

• "I write my journal for that exact reason." — Mike Birbiglia [56:32]

8. Personal Life and Parenting

The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Jessica shares stories about her children, particularly her daughter Isabella's battle with heart disease. They discuss the profound impact of parenting on their lives and how their roles as parents influence their perspectives and comedic narratives.

Notable Quote:

• "I just cried. Like, this is so beautiful. Like, I was so proud of Isabella." — Jessica Kirson [38:35]

9. Insights and Conclusions

Wrapping up the episode, Mike and Jessica offer valuable insights into the life of a comedian, emphasizing the importance of self-work, authenticity, and resilience. They encourage listeners to embrace vulnerability and utilize personal experiences as sources of strength and humor.

Notable Quote:

• "You're the same. I can't do comedy and not be real and talk about my stuff." — Jessica Kirson [26:40]

Key Takeaways:

• Handling Adversity: Jessica's experience with hecklers underscores the challenges comedians face and the importance of maintaining composure under pressure.

• Influence of Family: Growing up with a therapist mother and a famous stepbrother played a pivotal role in shaping Jessica's comedic style and personal resilience.

• Role of Social Media: The power of platforms like Instagram has been instrumental in Jessica's rise, allowing her to reach audiences directly without relying solely on traditional industry pathways.

• Authenticity in Comedy: Embracing vulnerability and personal stories enriches comedic performances, making them resonate more deeply with audiences.

• Personal Growth through Comedy: Both Jessica and Mike highlight how comedy serves as a therapeutic outlet, aiding in personal growth and emotional healing.

• Parenting Insights: Parenthood adds another layer to their lives, providing fresh material and perspectives that influence their comedy.

Conclusion

Episode 167 of Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out with Jessica Kirson is a profound exploration of the intersections between comedy, personal struggle, and resilience. Through candid storytelling and mutual respect, Mike and Jessica offer listeners both laughter and introspection, making this episode a must-listen for fans of authentic and heartfelt comedy.

Additional Information:

• Watch Jessica Kirson’s Special: I'm the Man on Hulu.
• Follow Jessica Kirson on Instagram: @jesskirsten.
• Watch the Episode on YouTube: Mike Birbiglia's YouTube Channel.
• Support the Cause: Contributions are made to the Children's Heart Foundation.

This summary encapsulates the rich and engaging conversation between Mike Birbiglia and Jessica Kirson, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.