Podcast Summary: "Senses Working Overtime with David Cross" Featuring Sandra Bernhard
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Senses Working Overtime, host David Cross welcomes legendary comedian Sandra Bernhard for an in-depth conversation. The episode, released on July 10, 2025, delves into Sandra's illustrious career, personal experiences, and insightful perspectives on various aspects of life and society.
Personal Background and Early Life
Sandra Bernhard opens up about her early years, providing listeners with a glimpse into her formative experiences. Born and raised in different parts of the United States, Sandra shares anecdotes about her upbringing and the influences that shaped her comedic and artistic sensibilities.
"I lived on... it's a very nice cohesive feeling to it." [01:30]
This sentiment reflects Sandra's appreciation for community and the environments that foster personal growth.
Career Beginnings and Stand-Up Comedy
The conversation transitions to Sandra's entry into the world of comedy. She discusses her start at famous venues like the Comedy Store in LA and her evolution from improv to stand-up. Sandra highlights the challenges and triumphs she faced as a woman in a predominantly male industry during the 70s and 80s.
"I had my mentor, Paul Mooney, who was with me almost every night..." [12:14]
Sandra emphasizes the importance of mentorship and a supportive community in her career development.
Approach to Comedy and Storytelling
Sandra shares her unique approach to comedy, blending storytelling with musical elements. She explains how she incorporates songs to complement her narratives, creating a multifaceted performance that resonates with diverse audiences.
"I usually bookend a story with a song occasionally... it's a subtle reference to whatever experience I'm talking about." [09:15]
This method showcases Sandra's ability to weave different art forms seamlessly, enhancing the depth of her performances.
Touring Experiences and Preferences
The discussion shifts to Sandra's extensive touring history. She reveals her favorite cities to perform in, citing Chicago, Minneapolis, and Milwaukee as top choices due to their vibrant and appreciative audiences.
"I love Chicago. I love where I'm going soon because those are always like, there's loads of smart, wonderful people who've been coming to see me for years." [31:19]
Sandra's passion for connecting with her audience is evident as she describes the energy and support she encounters on the road.
Views on Modern Society and Urban Life
Sandra and David delve into their observations of contemporary society, particularly focusing on differences between cities like New York and Phoenix. They discuss urban development, community dynamics, and the impact of modernization on personal experiences.
"I love New York because... I know all the neighbors when I walk my dog and I see people and talk." [39:36]
Sandra highlights the importance of maintaining close-knit communities amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Personal Life and Family
Sandra candidly discusses her personal life, including her long-term relationship and her daughter, Marlo. She shares heartwarming stories about balancing her career with family responsibilities and the joys of traveling with her child.
"We've been together for 17 years... and she's pretty awesome." [46:26]
Her affectionate portrayal of her family life underscores the grounding influence they have amidst her dynamic career.
Involvement in Television and Acting
Touching on her ventures beyond stand-up, Sandra talks about her role in the acclaimed TV show Severance. She reflects on her experience working with notable figures like Ben Stiller and the excitement of seeing her work come to life on screen.
"Ben Stiller called me and asked me if I would do this part and I was like, absolutely." [50:00]
Sandra's enthusiasm for acting complements her multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry.
Handling Modern Financial Transactions
An unexpected yet intriguing segment of the conversation revolves around Sandra's preference for traditional banking methods over digital transactions. She explains her comfort and control over cash management, especially while touring.
"I never use an ATM... I enjoy cash because I need it when I'm selling my merch on the road." [17:30]
This preference highlights Sandra's reliance on tried-and-true methods in an increasingly digital world.
Perspectives on Political and Social Issues
Towards the latter part of the episode, Sandra and David engage in a thoughtful discussion about current political tensions, particularly focusing on US-Canada relations. They express empathy towards Canadians' frustrations and ponder the broader implications of political rhetoric on international relationships.
"Canadians don't see this kind of talk as a joke. We see it as a threat to our democracy and our way of life." [23:16]
Their dialogue underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the concerns of different communities in a polarized political climate.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Sandra emphasizes her commitment to staying in the United States despite challenges, expressing optimism about contributing positively to society. The conversation concludes with a delightful Q&A segment, where Sandra answers a curious question from her daughter about why moths are attracted to light.
"I think it's warm. I think it's clarity for them... probably like in the dark a lot, eating up wool." [51:06]
This lighthearted exchange adds a personal and endearing touch to the episode, leaving listeners with a sense of Sandra's warmth and wit.
Takeaways
Throughout this episode, Sandra Bernhard offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights, from her pioneering role in comedy to her reflections on modern society and personal life balance. Her candidness and humor make for an engaging and inspiring conversation that resonates with both long-time fans and new listeners alike.
Notable Quotes
- "I never use an ATM... I enjoy cash because I need it when I'm selling my merch on the road." — Sandra Bernhard [17:30]
- "Ben Stiller called me and asked me if I would do this part and I was like, absolutely." — Sandra Bernhard [50:00]
- "We're offline and we're going to be offline for a little bit and everybody pulling out like all their meat from the freezer and having grilling out in the streets." — Sandra Bernhard [42:26]
- "I have acid reflux and it helps with that." — Sandra Bernhard [25:32]
Connect with Sandra Bernhard
For more information on Sandra Bernhard's shows and updates, visit her official website or follow her on Instagram at Sandra G. Bernhard.
This summary reflects the conversation between David Cross and Sandra Bernhard as captured in the transcript, offering an insightful overview of the episode's key themes and moments.