Podcast Summary: REAL AF with Andy Frisella – Episode 884: "Bad Thoughts" Ft. Tom Segura

Introduction

In this energetic and candid episode of REAL AF with Andy Frisella, host Andy Frisella welcomes comedian and author Tom Segura as his special guest. The episode, released on May 21, 2025, delves into a variety of topics ranging from Tom’s latest creative ventures to personal transformations, the dynamics of cancel culture in comedy, and insights into Tom’s international experiences. The conversation is marked by humor, honest reflections, and engaging banter between Andy, Tom, and co-host DJ.

Bad Thoughts: Tom Segura’s Creative Endeavor

Tom Segura opens up about his new Netflix series, "Bad Thoughts", describing it as his most enjoyable creative project to date.

• Creative Freedom: Tom emphasizes the unique creative freedom he experienced, stating, “[00:43] Tom Segura: It was the most fun I've ever had, like, creatively making it. We got to make really wild stories that we wrote ourselves” ([02:35]).

• Anthology Format: The show is structured as an anthology with self-contained stories, allowing for diverse and unconventional narratives without external interference.

• Violent Fantasies: Tom shares an example of a storyline where a seemingly trivial interaction with a barista escalates into a violent fantasy, affirming the show's intention to channel real frustrations creatively: “[03:07] Tom Segura: It's a violent fantasy. Everybody has encountered a retail person where you're like, I'm gonna kill this guy. And I want to” ([03:40]).

Personal Transformations and Fitness Journey

The conversation shifts to personal health and fitness, highlighting significant transformations undergone by both hosts and their friends.

• Tom’s Transformation: Tom discusses his weight loss journey, mentioning his participation in a 5K run, which led to significant weight loss and improved fitness: “[11:13] Tom Segura: I put more emphasis on training and eating right, especially while traveling” ([19:35]).

• Mental and Physical Benefits: Tom highlights the mental clarity and increased energy that come with regular exercise: “[21:30] Tom Segura: Working out helps clear my mind and makes me feel happier” ([21:44]).

• Andy’s Experience: Andy relates by sharing his own experience with incorporating training before showing up to the podcast, which helps him manage anger and improves his mood: “[20:01] Andy Vercella: Training right before helps me be more tolerable and manage my anger” ([21:06]).

Antifa, Cancel Culture, and the State of Comedy

A significant portion of the episode tackles the impact of cancel culture on comedy, with Tom offering his perspectives on how comedians navigate controversial topics.

• Evolution of Cancel Culture: Tom compares the current climate to 30 years ago, noting increased visibility of people’s reactions due to social media: “[26:15] Tom Segura: Today, people can instantly express their displeasure through devices and social media” ([28:01]).

• Resilience in Comedy: He argues that true comedians can withstand backlash, as seen with figures like Dave Chappelle, who despite accusations of transphobia, continue to thrive: “[30:38] Tom Segura: Chappelle wasn't canceled; his shows remained sold out” ([31:01]).

• Market Over Attacks: Tom emphasizes that the comedy market ultimately dictates success, not attempts to censor comedians: “[29:00] Tom Segura: If your comedy isn't selling, that's on you, not because someone attacked you” ([29:46]).

• Reaction Culture Critique: Both hosts critique the prevalence of reaction videos and articles that do not contribute creatively but instead seek attention: “[33:58] Tom Segura: Reaction articles are just noise and lack creativity” ([34:18]).

Touring and International Experiences

Tom provides insights into his extensive touring schedule and experiences performing globally.

• Tour Duration: Tom mentions his ongoing two-year tour, balancing performances across North America and selecting global markets: “[34:25] Tom Segura: My current tour spans two years, covering major North American and select global cities” ([34:25]).

• Favorite Cities: He shares his love for cities like New York, London, and Tokyo, praising their vibrant atmospheres and culinary excellence: “[38:14] Tom Segura: Tokyo’s food is unparalleled; every meal felt like the best I've ever had” ([40:23]).

• Cultural Observations: Tom highlights cultural differences, such as the meticulousness in Japanese service and the vibrant, ever-evolving nature of cities like Hong Kong: “[42:19] Tom Segura: Japanese people take immense pride in their work, which is evident in every interaction” ([42:19]).

Personal Anecdotes and Stories

The trio engages in humorous storytelling, sharing personal mishaps and memorable moments.

• Injuries and Recovery: Tom recounts a basketball injury involving a snap in his patellar tendon and humerus, leading to extensive surgeries and recovery: “[52:14] Tom Segura: My left patellar tendon snapped during a dunk contest” ([55:01]).

• Andy’s Fitness Failures: Andy humorously describes his own struggles with sudden strength demonstrations caught on video, leading to humorous family reactions: “[56:07] Andy Vercella: When I pushed over a tree, I saw myself in the video and was shocked by my own strength” ([56:07]).

Interactive Segments and Games

The episode includes interactive segments where Tom reacts to viral clips and participates in games, adding an element of spontaneity and humor.

• Viral Clips Reaction: Tom reacts to viral videos, including a formidable figure named Frederick Vosgrove, humorously assessing his intimidating presence: “[62:05] Tom Segura: That guy was probably built to do exactly this to laugh” ([62:09]).

• "What Would Tom Do?" Game: In a playful segment, Tom navigates amusing hypothetical scenarios, showcasing his comedic instincts: “[73:36] DJ: What would Tom do? Scenario 1: Your son joins Antifa” ([73:36]).

YMH Studios and Future Projects

Tom discusses his involvement with YMH Studios, highlighting its growth and diversification into various media projects.

• Studio Operations: YMH Studios, based in Austin, serves as a hub for producing podcasts, TV shows like "Bad Thoughts," and feature films: “[57:19] Tom Segura: YMH Studios is our flagship, producing various podcasts and media content” ([58:22]).

• Expansion and Infrastructure: Tom outlines the gradual build-up of the studio’s infrastructure, including internal ad sales and a supportive team environment: “[58:22] Tom Segura: We slowly built the infrastructure, expanding into TV and film” ([58:22]).

Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, the hosts express their appreciation for Tom's insights and contributions. Tom acknowledges the collaborative spirit, and Andy commends Tom’s meticulous approach to his work: “[78:04] Andy Vercella: I really appreciate how meticulous you are about your work” ([78:04]).

The episode concludes on a lighthearted note, encouraging listeners to share the show and stay tuned for future episodes.

Notable Quotes:

• Tom Segura on Creative Freedom: “[02:35] 'It was a real bummer of a process when it's so this was like the opposite where we got to make…'”

• Tom on Fitness: “[19:35] 'I've learned a lot of my day is really slammed with like, you know, 100 things. When I work out first, I'm just a much better version of myself.'”

• Tom on Cancel Culture: “[28:01] 'You're the complaining little bitch right now.'”

• Tom on YMH Studios: “[58:22] 'We built the infrastructure to produce podcasts, TV shows, and films.'”

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of Episode 884, highlighting key discussions, personal stories, and insightful perspectives shared by Tom Segura and the hosts. Whether you're a regular listener or new to the show, this episode offers valuable takeaways on creativity, resilience, and the evolving landscape of comedy.