Podcast Summary: Senses Working Overtime with David Cross – Episode Featuring Chris Gethard

Release Date: July 3, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Senses Working Overtime with David Cross, host David Cross welcomes comedian and podcaster Chris Gethard for an in-depth conversation. Both seasoned professionals in the comedy world, David and Chris delve into a variety of topics ranging from parenting and childhood memories to career insights and personal struggles. The dialogue is rich with humor, heartfelt anecdotes, and mutual reflections, providing listeners with a comprehensive look into their lives and minds.

1. Parenting and Raising Kids

Discussing the Joys and Challenges: David and Chris begin by sharing their experiences as parents. Chris talks about his six-year-old son living in a suburban neighborhood in New Jersey, highlighting the ease with which his son can socialize with neighbors and gain independence.

Chris [02:08]: "We live in a very sleepy neighborhood that's almost rural, not even suburban."

David reflects on his eight-year-old daughter, emphasizing the balance between granting her independence and monitoring her activities.

David [04:06]: "From six on, you can let them do things a little bit more... not in a plonk them in front of the TV way."

Tooth Fairy Realities: A notable segment discusses the evolving beliefs children have about mythical figures like the Tooth Fairy, Santa Claus, and the Easter Bunny. Chris shares a heartfelt moment when his son confronted him about the reality of the Tooth Fairy.

Chris [11:06]: "Can you still put my $2 under my pillow? He's great. He still wants the experience."

David adds his own experiences, describing the emotional significance of losing a first tooth and the family’s approach to maintaining the magic while being honest.

2. Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics

Recounting Tough Times: Both David and Chris reflect on their challenging childhoods. David narrates his mother's struggle to build credit and provide for the family after his father left, painting a vivid picture of perseverance.

David [37:01]: "We grew up. My dad left us in severe debt. It took years of my mom methodically building credit."

Chris shares a poignant memory about his mother's participation in medical tests to secure pizza nights for him and his brother, juxtaposing hardship with moments of joy.

Chris [39:30]: "My parents were on such a tightrope... my mom was doing weird medical tests so my brother and I could have pizza night."

Sibling Relationships: Their stories also touch on the bond between brothers, highlighted by an intense yet humorous recounting of their physical battles growing up.

Chris [16:20]: "Our last fight... he punched me so hard that I went down."

3. Career Insights and Comedy Journeys

Navigating the Comedy Scene: David and Chris discuss their paths in the comedy industry, reminiscing about their early days performing at venues like UCB and local comedy clubs. They highlight the camaraderie and competitive spirit within the community.

David [25:06]: "I remember doing shows and staying out all night... interacting with legendary comedians."

Chris shares his experiences with public access TV and the challenges of maintaining a comedic persona while dealing with personal anxieties.

Chris [54:04]: "I have retreated from being as public as I used to be, in part because of this."

Balancing Success and Personal Life: Both comedians emphasize the importance of maintaining a stable personal life amidst career demands. David discusses his disciplined approach to finances, while Chris talks about his conscious decision to keep his lifestyle unchanged despite career fluctuations.

David [28:07]: "I never changed an ounce of my lifestyle. I save money when I can to reduce stress during lean periods."

Chris [27:04]: "I never changed an ounce of my lifestyle... I stuff it away to help dissipate the stress."

4. Mental Health and Personal Struggles

Anxiety and Coping Mechanisms: A significant portion of the conversation delves into mental health, with both comedians candidly discussing their battles with anxiety and the impact it has had on their lives and careers.

Chris [22:53]: "I'm the most confident person you've ever met, actually. But when the cameras come on, the anxiety is real."

David sympathizes, sharing his own experiences with stress and the importance of focusing on the present to mitigate anxiety.

David [27:38]: "Enjoy right now. Let’s enjoy the moment."

Personal Growth and Reflection: They reflect on how their past anxieties shaped their professional lives and personal relationships, acknowledging the progress they've made while recognizing ongoing challenges.

David [23:59]: "I see a big difference now... I’ve managed to chill out after many years."

Chris [55:13]: "If I was 20 years older, I would probably retire and enjoy my achievements."

5. Personal Life and Current Projects

Creative Endeavors and Community Involvement: David and Chris discuss their current projects and community involvement. Chris highlights his podcast Beautiful Anonymous and his work with the nonprofit Wellness Together, which focuses on mental health services in schools.

Chris [70:47]: "I have my own podcast called Beautiful Anonymous, where I talk to people on the phone and they stay anonymous."

David shares his upcoming benefit show for Little Essentials, a local organization supporting impoverished children in New York City.

David [72:19]: "On July 12th, I will be headlining a benefit for Little Essentials at the Bell House in Brooklyn."

6. Future Projects and Plugs

Upcoming Shows and Collaborations: The conversation also touches on future performances and collaborative projects. Both comedians express excitement about upcoming shows and the continued evolution of their comedic styles.

Chris [74:15]: "I've been hosting this new variety show called That Show, hosted by Chris Gethard... We're going out to White Eagle Hall in Jersey City."

David [72:00]: "We’re doing a benefit to raise money for Little Essentials with a sick lineup."

Supporting Each Other’s Endeavors: Throughout the episode, David and Chris enthusiastically support each other’s projects, reinforcing their strong professional and personal bonds.

Chris [75:13]: "White Eagle Hall. You'll love it. Jersey City is crushing it right now with their micro comedy sets."

David [73:53]: "Have you heard of Stamptown? I love it."

7. Final Reflections and Light-Hearted Moments

Birthday Celebrations and Personal Milestones: As the episode wraps up, Chris celebrates his upcoming 45th birthday with David, leading to a playful and insightful exchange about personal health and societal expectations.

Chris [61:07]: "I turn 45 tomorrow and I've started sizing up my clothes instead of losing weight."

David [66:00]: "Join a gym with a healthy monthly payment and it'll make you get up off the couch."

Humorous Anecdotes and Philosophical Insights: The duo concludes with humorous banter about everyday topics like gym memberships, societal norms, and even the peculiar furiness of bumblebees, blending comedy with thoughtful commentary.

Chris [76:19]: "Bumblebees are furry because they do a lot of good for the environment... They're trying to hang on in the face of humanity's darkest habits."

David [77:48]: "How do you explain Honey Nut Cheerios?"

Conclusion

This episode of Senses Working Overtime with David Cross offers a multifaceted look into the lives of David Cross and Chris Gethard. Through their candid conversations, listeners gain insights into the complexities of balancing personal life with a career in comedy, the enduring impact of childhood experiences, and the ongoing journey of mental health management. Rich with humor and genuine reflections, this episode serves as both an entertaining and enlightening experience for audiences.

Notable Quotes:

• Chris [11:06]: "Can you still put my $2 under my pillow? He's great. He still wants the experience."

• David [28:07]: "I never changed an ounce of my lifestyle. I save money when I can to reduce stress during lean periods."

• Chris [22:53]: "I'm the most confident person you've ever met, actually. But when the cameras come on, the anxiety is real."

• Chris [70:47]: "I have my own podcast called Beautiful Anonymous, where I talk to people on the phone and they stay anonymous."

• Chris [76:19]: "Bumblebees are furry because they do a lot of good for the environment... They're trying to hang on in the face of humanity's darkest habits."

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