Podcast Summary: Senses Working Overtime with David Cross featuring Nick Thune
Release Date: June 12, 2025
Introduction
In this lively episode of Senses Working Overtime with David Cross, host David Cross engages in a candid and humorous conversation with comedian Nick Thune. The duo delves into a myriad of topics ranging from life on the road, personal struggles with health and sobriety, to amusing anecdotes from their careers and personal lives. Their effortless banter creates an engaging atmosphere, making the podcast both entertaining and insightful for listeners.
Life on the Road and Comedy
The conversation kicks off with David and Nick discussing the challenges and peculiarities of living and performing in New York City. They reminisce about the early days of Nick's stand-up career in Staten Island, highlighting the evolution of the comedy scene downtown. Nick shares his experience of busking in Oslo, emphasizing the strong command of English among locals which makes international performances enjoyable.
Nick Thune [02:22]: "I do a little busking. I do a kind of what if scenario. What if the spin doctors were cast in Hamlet and it's just the spin doctors doing Hamlet."
Personal Health Struggles and Sobriety
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing personal health challenges. Both comedians reveal their battles with alcoholism and Lyme disease. David recounts his harrowing experience of overdosing on vodka while being treated for Lyme disease, which led him to seek rehab—a decision that ultimately saved his life. Nick shares a similar journey, detailing the intense physical and emotional toll of untreated Lyme disease exacerbated by excessive drinking.
David Cross [25:30]: "I was so deep into alcoholism that I couldn't, they were giving me, you know, and I, whatever antibiotics and I, they weren't working because I was drinking a bottle and a half of vodka a day probably."
Nick Thune [26:43]: "I stopped putting everything up high in the room because I'm like, I just don't want to pee on this stuff. I know it's going to happen."
Relationships and Family Life
The conversation transitions to personal relationships, with David discussing his ex-wife and the impact of his addiction on his family life. The comedians reflect on the chaos caused by their struggles, including embarrassing incidents like urinating in hotel rooms and the strain it placed on their marriages.
David Cross [27:07]: "We got divorced after I got sober. It was coming, it was already in the works."
Anecdotes from the Comedy World
Nick shares some humorous and memorable stories from his time in the comedy circuit, including a night he wore a dress to a bar and an encounter with a stranger who gave him a unique T-shirt. These stories highlight the unpredictable and often absurd nature of life as a comedian.
Nick Thune [52:45]: "We were doing a Mr. Show thing... I wore Sarah's dress."
Baseball and Personal Interests
A passionate discussion about baseball ensues, with both comedians expressing their love for the sport. David talks about meeting Clayton Kershaw and attending memorable games like the Dodgers' World Series win at Fenway Park. Nick shares his experiences attending Braves games and the thrill of witnessing pivotal moments in baseball history.
David Cross [55:35]: "I threw out the first pitch for the Mariners. Full uniform with running shoes on."
Nick Thune [56:10]: "I have been lucky enough. I've seen a lot of losses because I'm Braves, Red Sox. But I also got to see the Braves win in '95 at the last game at the Atlanta Fulton County Stadium."
Cultural Observations and Travel Tales
The hosts discuss their travels, particularly Nick's upcoming performances in Canada and Europe. They touch upon cultural differences, such as Canadians' reputation for politeness and the humorous idea of Utah becoming the 51st state. Their stories provide a glimpse into the life of touring comedians and the unique interactions they encounter abroad.
Nick Thune [43:50]: "I feel like apologizing to people... it's weird going through customs because it's like you have to. You look at them and you're like, yeah, hey, I know what's going on."
Conclusion and Light-Hearted Moments
As the episode winds down, Nick promotes his YouTube channel, Born Young, before addressing a charming question from David's daughter, Marlo. David humorously explains the difference between red and blue flames through a playful reference to The Matrix, maintaining the episode's light-hearted tone.
David Cross [75:43]: "Marlo, I would say the difference between a red and a blue flame is if you've seen the Matrix. Has she seen the Matrix?"
Notable Quotes
- Nick Thune [26:55]: "I'm looking forward to it. I just haven't been home much, that's all."
- David Cross [73:37]: "What a feeling, too. To be... I was at Game 7 when the Astros beat the Dodgers the year they cheated."
Final Thoughts
This episode of Senses Working Overtime offers a deep dive into the lives of two seasoned comedians. Through their honest and humorous exchanges, David Cross and Nick Thune explore themes of resilience, personal growth, and the enduring pursuit of laughter amidst life's challenges. Their stories not only entertain but also provide valuable insights into overcoming adversity and the healing power of comedy.