Podcast Summary: "Senses Working Overtime with David Cross" featuring James Austin Johnson

Episode Information:

• Title: Senses Working Overtime with David Cross
• Host: David Cross
• Guest: James Austin Johnson
• Release Date: February 20, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Senses Working Overtime with David Cross, host David Cross welcomes comedian and actor James Austin Johnson. The conversation delves into a variety of topics, ranging from personal experiences in the entertainment industry to deep discussions on religion, parenting, and the creative process.

Personal Background and Early Life

David Cross and James Austin Johnson begin by sharing snippets of their upbringing and early life experiences. James recounts moving to New York during his formative years and navigating environments dominated by artistic communities.

James Austin Johnson [03:38]: "We were just the only couple under 75 and everyone was a billionaire... the immediate assumption is, wow, a healthy young woman is like a baby for..."

David contrasts this with his own experiences growing up in Atlanta, expressing concerns about cities like Nashville and Austin losing their unique character as they grow.

David Cross [04:14]: "There is a point where you get too big. Stop building. You're losing your soul, you're losing your character."

Transition to Comedy and the Entertainment Industry

The discussion shifts to their careers in comedy. James shares his journey to joining Saturday Night Live (SNL), highlighting the challenges of balancing work and personal life, especially during his wife's pregnancy.

James Austin Johnson [09:26]: "I have no time other than the time I spend all of my comedy time goes to the show and then all of my rest of my time goes to sleeping and trying to put my personal imprint on my son in some way."

David provides insights into the rigorous demands of touring as a comedian, emphasizing the relentless travel schedules and the impact on personal well-being.

David Cross [19:07]: "It's a show that really works like that... it's the only show that really works like that."

Discussions on Religion and Personal Beliefs

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the role of religion in their lives. James reflects on his upbringing in a religious environment and his current stance as an atheist.

James Austin Johnson [31:08]: "I have to do so much work to go from abject rejection and bitterness... to being a kind adult who, like, tries to give everybody the rope to do things the way that they want to do."

David challenges the negative impacts of religion, particularly its influence on mental health and personal freedoms.

David Cross [38:28]: "I think religion is uniquely positioned to torment people's inner lives in a way that nothing else is."

The dialogue explores the complexities of reconciling personal beliefs with familial and societal expectations.

James Austin Johnson [35:27]: "It's a very sweet story."

David Cross [33:08]: "Misquoting Jesus... it's just the history of the Bible, which is if you just know that you're like. You would completely question literally everything."

Parenting and Family Life

Both hosts discuss the challenges of parenting while managing demanding careers. James shares strategies for fostering a love of reading in his children, inspired by his late grandfather.

James Austin Johnson [46:49]: "I'm trying to just engage with books in a different way because I feel like for years I was just reading things and forgetting them immediately."

David humorously touches upon the trials of parenthood, including dealing with unpleasant situations and teaching children practical lessons.

David Cross [75:05]: "I don't have any weed. I'm not gonna whore myself out. I can give you some Bible verses."

Creative Process and Writing

The conversation ventures into their creative processes. James discusses writing sketches for SNL, emphasizing the blend of personal experiences and observational humor.

James Austin Johnson [61:33]: "It's like the parents that are annoying, not the kids. The kids are great. The parents are..."

David shares his passion for literature, mentioning favorite books and authors that have influenced his comedic style.

David Cross [49:20]: "Hunger by Newt Hampson, which is maybe the best of all."

Memorable Moments and Anecdotes

Throughout the episode, both hosts recount humorous and memorable anecdotes from their careers and personal lives. From dealing with challenging audience interactions to navigating the complexities of live performances, their stories provide a candid look into the life of a comedian.

James Austin Johnson [70:47]: "I shot him in the face. Yeah. He's attacking me. And I don't regret it."

David Cross [77:49]: "I have a blow-up bouncy castle miniature...".

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, David and James reflect on the importance of maintaining authenticity in their personal and professional lives. They highlight the value of continuous learning, whether through reading, engaging with diverse communities, or embracing new creative endeavors.

James Austin Johnson [78:22]: "I was just trying to do a great God, you idiot. You dolt. Take it up with the big man."

David Cross [80:14]: "Let's go back into a long digression about religion."

Notable Quotes

• James Austin Johnson [09:26]: "I have no time other than the time I spend all of my comedy time goes to the show and then all of my rest of my time goes to sleeping and trying to put my personal imprint on my son in some way."

• David Cross [38:28]: "I think religion is uniquely positioned to torment people's inner lives in a way that nothing else is."

• James Austin Johnson [46:49]: "I'm trying to just engage with books in a different way because I feel like for years I was just reading things and forgetting them immediately."

• David Cross [49:20]: "Hunger by Newt Hampson, which is maybe the best of all."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Senses Working Overtime with David Cross offers a rich tapestry of conversations that intertwine personal narratives with broader societal themes. Listeners gain insight into the lives of two comedians striving to balance career ambitions with personal growth and family responsibilities. The candid and humorous exchange makes it a compelling listen for both fans and newcomers alike.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections as per the episode's structure, focusing solely on the substantive discussions between David Cross and James Austin Johnson.