Podcast Summary: "Senses Working Overtime with David Cross" Featuring Nimesh Patel

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Senses Working Overtime with David Cross, host David Cross welcomes comedian and professional talker Nimesh Patel. The conversation meanders through various topics, including Nimesh's journey in comedy, his cultural experiences, family dynamics, and personal anecdotes about food and life in New York City and beyond. The informal and humorous style allows listeners to gain deep insights into Nimesh's life and perspectives.

1. Journey into Comedy

Early Beginnings and Breakthrough

Nimesh shares his initial foray into comedy, recounting how encouragement from Shonali Bomick, a pivotal figure in the comedy scene, led to his first paid gig.

• [03:21] Nimesh Patel: "She's probably one of the first. She is the reason I got my first paid comedy gig."

David Cross interjects with references to shared connections and mutual acquaintances, highlighting the tight-knit nature of the comedy community.

• [06:25] David Cross: "I did."

Connection with Shonali Bomick

Their conversation delves into the strong bond Nimesh formed with Shonali, underscoring her influence and their longstanding friendship.

• [06:43] Nimesh Patel: "Shonali's mom will text me at least once or twice a year, checking in."

David reminisces about their shared history, including attending Shonali's wedding in New Orleans.

• [07:14] David Cross: "You can see where Sonali gets her... her whole unquenchable spirit."

2. Cultural and Family Background

Immigrant Family Dynamics

Nimesh opens up about his immigrant parents from India, detailing their challenges and cultural influences on his upbringing.

• [04:26] Nimesh Patel: "I’m an OG Parsippany head. My parents moved there in '83 maybe. They've been there forever."

He discusses the early presence of Indian communities in Parsippany and the pride it brings him.

• [04:45] Nimesh Patel: "Among the first Indian people to be there, which is a cool little feather in our cap."

Parental Influence and Personal Struggles

Nimesh reflects on his role as the first child and the pressures it entailed, contrasting it with his sister's more outgoing and accomplished nature.

• [48:35] Nimesh Patel: "My sister is too. She's texting me to make sure you remember mom and dad's anniversary."

He explores themes of emotional repression learned from his family, discussing how therapy has helped him address these issues.

• [49:44] Nimesh Patel: "When I talk to my therapist, it’s always like, I feel one thing, and then I feel bad that I feel that way."

David empathizes, relating to similar communication gaps in his own family.

• [51:08] David Cross: "Well, it's good that you're seeing a therapist... "

3. Personal Life and Parenting

Balancing Family and Career

Nimesh discusses his recent move to Downtown Brooklyn to accommodate his growing family, emphasizing the benefits of living in a high-rise with amenities like an in-building gym.

• [65:45] Nimesh Patel: "We got a gym in the building... it’s just like two seconds upstairs, two seconds downstairs."

He shares challenges related to limited space and his aspirations to move to a more spacious home to better support his daughter.

• [66:46] Nimesh Patel: "I'm trying to work my ass off to get us a bigger spot."

Parenting Philosophies

The conversation shifts to parenting, with both hosts reflecting on their approaches. Nimesh highlights his efforts to nurture his daughter's understanding of money and financial literacy.

• [60:12] David Cross: "Well, she's grown up around a lot of lesbian couples in love... "

Nimesh concurs, discussing the importance of diverse role models and supportive environments for his daughter.

4. Culinary Adventures and Food Culture

Indian Cuisine and Local Favorites

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing favorite Indian restaurants and unique culinary experiences in New York City and London. Nimesh enthusiastically shares his top picks, providing listeners with insider recommendations.

• [33:17] Nimesh Patel: "Gymkhana is the best, probably Indian... Some of the best Indian food I've ever had."

David responds with his own experiences, mentioning renowned spots like Verdi Mart in the French Quarter, London’s Borough Market, and various establishments across New York.

• [31:18] David Cross: "I can tell you the best grilled cheese sandwich I've ever had in my life... Borough Market in London."

Memorable Food Experiences

They reminisce about past food adventures, such as the infamous "Fat Mouth" sandwich from Jimmy's on Easton Avenue and exotic dishes like dosa and unique pizza variants from Indian fusion restaurants.

• [25:08] Nimesh Patel: "Jimmy's had fat sandwiches... I never had a turkey sandwich that tasted that good."

• [76:14] Nimesh Patel: "Their pasta dishes, their dosa onion rings are incredible."

5. Reflections on Moving and Living in Major Cities

Living in New York City

Nimesh discusses the practical aspects of living in New York City, such as dealing with space constraints and the advantages of amenities provided in high-rise buildings.

• [63:46] David Cross: "Where are you now?"

• [65:33] Nimesh Patel: "We got a gym in the building... "

Comparisons with Other Cities

David shares his experiences living in various New York neighborhoods, contrasting maintenance responsibilities with the benefits of having building superintendents.

• [64:25] David Cross: "I live in a brownstone... dealing with everything yourself."

Nimesh adds his perspective on maintaining a balance between urban living convenience and the desire for more space.

6. Brief Political Discussion

Trade Tensions with Canada

Towards the end of the episode, the conversation briefly touches on current political tensions between the U.S. and Canada, with David expressing frustration over trade wars and protective economic policies.

• [67:35] David Cross: "They’re like, why are you up our... What are you doing?"

Nimesh responds by reflecting on his observations and the impact of the Trump administration's policies on international relations.

• [70:19] Nimesh Patel: "I don’t know the long game of this guy, nor do I understand."

7. Closing Remarks

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

As the episode winds down, both hosts share final recommendations and thoughts. Nimesh emphasizes the importance of authentic culinary experiences, while David wraps up by encouraging listeners to explore the multitude of food options discussed.

• [74:07] Nimesh Patel: "I'll check out Lasordids."

• [78:29] David Cross: "Check it out...Chicken Chettinada and all that."

Interactive Q&A

In a light-hearted conclusion, David poses a question from his daughter to Nimesh, fostering a playful exchange that underscores the podcast’s personable and relatable nature.

• [73:07] David Cross: "Why does water put fire out?"

• [73:31] Nimesh Patel: "Water deprives the fire of oxygen..."

Notable Quotes

• [03:21] Nimesh Patel: "She's probably one of the first. She is the reason I got my first paid comedy gig."

• [04:45] Nimesh Patel: "Among the first Indian people to be there, which is a cool little feather in our cap."

• [06:43] Nimesh Patel: "Shonali's mom will text me at least once or twice a year, checking in."

• [49:44] Nimesh Patel: "When I talk to my therapist, it’s always like, I feel one thing, and then I feel bad that I feel that way."

• [65:45] Nimesh Patel: "We got a gym in the building... it’s just like two seconds upstairs, two seconds downstairs."

• [25:08] Nimesh Patel: "Jimmy's had fat sandwiches... I never had a turkey sandwich that tasted that good."

• [33:17] Nimesh Patel: "Gymkhana is the best, probably Indian... Some of the best Indian food I've ever had."

• [73:07] Nimesh Patel: "Water deprives the fire of oxygen, and because fire needs oxygen to continue its chemical process of combustion..."

Conclusion

This episode of Senses Working Overtime with David Cross offers a rich tapestry of conversations that highlight Nimesh Patel's multifaceted life as a comedian, cultural enthusiast, and devoted family man. Through humorous exchanges and heartfelt stories, listeners are invited to explore the intersections of comedy, culture, and personal growth alongside David and Nimesh.