Senses Working Overtime with David Cross: Episode Featuring Ian Karmel

Release Date: May 22, 2025

In this lively and humorous episode of Senses Working Overtime, host David Cross engages in an entertaining conversation with comedian Ian Karmel. The duo navigates through a myriad of topics, blending personal anecdotes with witty banter, offering listeners both laughs and insightful reflections.

1. Introductions and Shared Backgrounds

The episode kicks off with David and Ian introducing themselves, establishing their professional rapport and mutual connections. They mention their lengthy careers in comedy and their shared acquaintance, Shane Torres, a beloved friend from Portland.

David Cross [01:23]: "Well, thanks for coming down here."

Ian Karmel [01:25]: "Nice to meet you."

2. Hailing from Beaverton vs. Portland

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Ian's roots in Beaverton, Oregon, and the common misconception of being from Portland. Ian expresses his frustration with local media persistently labeling him as "Beaverton's Ian Carmel," highlighting his aspiration to be recognized as a Portland comedian.

Ian Karmel [02:39]: "It's Beaverton, which is a suburb of Portland."

David Cross [02:43]: "Or in reverse order you then Nike."

3. High School Memories and Physical Stature

The duo reminisce about their high school experiences, particularly focusing on Ian's time in football due to his large physique. They humorously discuss the alternative of being placed in a shed for physically imposing teenagers, painting a vivid picture of teenage life in Oregon.

Ian Karmel [08:52]: "I was the personification of Ozempic."

David Cross [09:07]: "I would rather play football than be put in a shed."

4. The Mythos of the LA River and Local Geography

Transitioning to their experiences in Los Angeles, David and Ian delve into the often-overlooked LA River, sharing amusing anecdotes about its current state and their misconceptions about its purpose.

David Cross [32:33]: "It's nothing and it's dirty."

Ian Karmel [35:23]: "It's a pretty similar flavor."

5. Etymology of Last Names and Jewish Heritage

A heartfelt segment unfolds as Ian shares the origin of his last name, Carmel, detailing his grandfather's immigration story from Paris and the subsequent name change from Solomon Katz to fit into American society. This discussion sheds light on the broader theme of assimilation and identity.

Ian Karmel [40:44]: "It was made our family name Katz originally."

David Cross [41:04]: "Hernandez is Herb Nand."

6. Podcasting, Parenting, and Musical Interests

The conversation takes a familial turn as David and Ian discuss their children and the role of music in their upbringing. David shares his experiences with introducing his daughter to vinyl records, emphasizing the interactive and analog nature of music consumption.

David Cross [60:07]: "Talent is a Vampire by Bongwater... my daughter loves it."

Ian Karmel [65:34]: "She loves the tops and the paninis, like, select."

7. Humorous Exchanges and Light-Hearted Banter

Throughout the episode, David and Ian engage in playful exchanges, often veering into absurdity. From debating the pronunciation of "Los Feliz" to imagining the Supreme Court adorned with sour cream, their comedic chemistry is palpable and entertaining.

David Cross [20:55]: "They have a kind of flay open the gums..."

Ian Karmel [51:02]: "Franktown. It's full of French people."

8. Closing Reflections and Final Thoughts

As the episode nears its end, David and Ian reflect on the unpredictable nature of podcasting, the joy of spontaneous conversations, and the value of shared humor. They conclude with a light-hearted interaction involving a question from David's daughter about swallowing bubblegum, seamlessly blending humor with familial warmth.

David Cross [67:08]: "Why can you not swallow bubblegum if it is a food?"

Ian Karmel [67:21]: "It's biblical."

Notable Quotes:

• Ian Karmel [02:39]: "Always called me Beaverton's Ian Carmel... drove me crazy because all I wanted was to be like the cool, actual from Portland stand-up comedian."

• David Cross [32:33]: "It's nothing and it's dirty. And the whole. It's cement."

• Ian Karmel [40:44]: "We're Jewish, so it was. It was made our family name Katz originally."

• David Cross [60:07]: "Talent is a Vampire by Bongwater, which is great. It's just a great, interesting."

Conclusion

This episode of Senses Working Overtime masterfully blends humor with personal storytelling, offering listeners a window into the lives of two seasoned comedians. Through their candid exchanges, David Cross and Ian Karmel explore themes of identity, family, and the quirks of daily life, all while keeping the atmosphere light and engaging. Whether you're a longtime fan or a new listener, this episode promises both laughs and meaningful conversations.