Podcast Summary: Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out – Episode 173: Atsuko Okatsuka Returns: The Dizzy Duo

Release Date: June 16, 2025

In Episode 173 of Mike Birbiglia's Working It Out, comedian Mike Birbiglia welcomes Atsuko Okatsuka for her fourth appearance on the podcast. The episode delves deep into their friendship, Atsuko's latest comedy special, and the intricate process of crafting humorous yet personal material.

1. Reaffirming Friendship and Collaboration

Mike begins by highlighting his longstanding friendship with Atsuko, mentioning their tours together and mutual respect for each other's comedic talents. He reflects on their bond as "new adult friends" who navigate the challenges of making and maintaining friendships in adulthood.

Mike Birbiglia [00:21]: "This is Atsuko's fourth, count it, fourth time on the podcast. One of my favorite comics."

2. Atsuko’s Comedy Special: "Father"

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Atsuko's new special, "Father," which is available on Hulu and Disney Plus. Mike praises the special, emphasizing its depth and Atsuko's growth as a performer.

Mike Birbiglia [03:08]: "What got you there? ... you have something to talk about, but you come out, you're dancing, you're high energy, but also personal..."

Atsuko shares insights into the development of her special, noting how extensive touring and audience feedback refined her material. She candidly discusses the challenges of experimenting with personal and uncomfortable topics on stage.

Atsuko Okatsuka [03:25]: "This show I toured for two years internationally... believe me, it got worse too."

3. Exploring Family Dynamics through Comedy

A pivotal moment in the special is Atsuko's story about being kidnapped by her grandmother in Japan during childhood. Mike is intrigued by how such a specific and personal narrative resonates humorously with audiences.

Mike Birbiglia [04:20]: "My question is, like, what are they relating to, in your opinion?"

Atsuko speculates that the universal theme might be the absurdity of familial relationships and the humorous side of being let down by those who are supposed to guide and protect us.

Atsuko Okatsuka [04:49]: "Who should know better than we do? Who are our guidance?"

4. The Relatability of Specificity in Humor

Despite the uniqueness of her kidnapping story, Atsuko observes that audiences find it relatable, possibly because it touches on the broader human experience of flawed family relationships.

Atsuko Okatsuka [05:49]: "In Japan is to be a salaryman... That would be fashion."

This segment underscores the idea that even the most personal stories can tap into common emotions and experiences, making them universally funny.

5. Collaborating on Comedy Material

The duo engages in a dynamic exchange about refining their comedic bits. Mike shares a dark joke about his father’s stroke, while Atsuko provides constructive feedback, suggesting ways to enhance its relatability and humor.

Atsuko Okatsuka [39:30]: "You know, it's like you're trying to find the balance..."

Their collaboration exemplifies the "working it out" essence of the podcast, where comedians refine their material through honest and supportive dialogue.

6. Personal Anecdotes and Codependency

Atsuko opens up about her relationship with her partner, Ryan, addressing themes of codependency and mutual support in creative endeavors. They humorously discuss how their personal lives intertwine with their comedic personas.

Mike Birbiglia [24:28]: "I need to read a book called Codependent No More."

This conversation highlights the blending of personal dynamics with professional growth, illustrating how comedians often draw from their lives to fuel their humor.

7. Developing New Comedy Bits

The episode features brainstorming sessions where Mike and Atsuko develop new jokes and bits. They explore concepts like "light joy vs. dark joy," discussing how to balance humor with deeper emotional undercurrents.

Mike Birbiglia [51:19]: "It's almost like when you were grown up, at a certain point, it's like you end up in like, like PG joy versus, like X rated joy."

Atsuko contributes creative ideas, enhancing Mike's comedic structures and offering fresh perspectives on his material.

8. Supporting Causes and Community Engagement

Towards the end of the episode, Mike and Atsuko highlight their commitment to supporting the Trevor Project, an organization dedicated to assisting LGBTQ youth. This segment reinforces their dedication to using comedy as a platform for positive societal impact.

Mike Birbiglia [53:32]: "Today, Acorns Early is issued by Community Federal Savings bank member FDIC..."

9. Conclusion: The Dizzy Duo’s Dynamic

The episode wraps up with mutual appreciation between Mike and Atsuko, celebrating their unique comedic partnership and the ongoing process of "working it out" together. They reiterate their status as the "dizzy duo," blending humor with heartfelt conversations.

Atsuko Okatsuka [54:26]: "We're a dizzy royal. Working it out because it's not done."

Notable Quotes:

• Mike Birbiglia [00:09]: "I'm about to record this conversation with you is a real worrisome phrase."

• Atsuko Okatsuka [04:49]: "In Japan is to be a salaryman. We all wear uniform suits."

• Mike Birbiglia [11:26]: "This is just a beautiful purple, pink, white pattern."

• Atsuko Okatsuka [22:21]: "We have never talked about that."

• Mike Birbiglia [40:17]: "Your life is that your life gets worse."

• Atsuko Okatsuka [49:44]: "Yeah, yeah, yeah, totally."

Final Thoughts:

Episode 173 of Working It Out offers a rich and engaging exploration of Atsuko Okatsuka's comedic journey, her personal narratives, and the collaborative spirit that defines her friendship with Mike Birbiglia. Their candid discussions provide valuable insights into the creative process, the power of relatable humor, and the importance of supportive relationships in the world of comedy.

For those who haven’t listened yet, this episode is a testament to the art of turning personal stories into universally funny and meaningful comedy.