Podcast Summary: Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim Featuring Langston Kerman
Introduction
In the heartfelt and humorous episode of "Thanks Dad" hosted by Ego Nwodim, comedian and actor Langston Kerman joins as the guest. The podcast, produced by Headgum, revolves around Ego inviting father figures to be her "Dad for the Day," fostering conversations about their experiences with their own fathers and their roles as parents. This episode delves deep into Langston's upbringing, his relationships with his biological father and stepfathers, and his evolving approach to parenting.
Unveiling Early Relationships
The episode opens with Ego candidly discussing her background, highlighting that she was raised by a single mother and has no relationship with her deceased father. This revelation draws an emotional response from Langston:
Langston Kerman [00:26]: "Well, it's just a devastating way for me to find out."
Ego probes into Langston's feelings about discovering her father's death, leading to a poignant exchange about communication and emotional expression. Their conversation takes a lighthearted turn as they joke about grammar, easing the initial tension.
Humor Amidst Seriousness
Ego and Langston engage in playful banter early on, discussing grammar mistakes and skincare routines. This blend of humor and sincerity sets the tone for their interaction, making the complex emotions surrounding fatherhood more approachable.
Ego Nwodim [03:05]: "Do you have a skincare regimen?"
Langston Kerman [03:12]: "I wash it and then I put lotion on it."
Their humorous exchange about skincare serves as a segue into deeper discussions about personal care and self-awareness.
Navigating Stepparent Dynamics
A significant portion of the conversation centers on Langston's experiences with multiple stepfathers. He shares the challenges of having three stepdads, none of whom fully embraced the fatherly role:
Langston Kerman [07:08]: "I had a stepdad that I think I would have described as my favorite when I was younger because he was like the longest lasting."
Langston humorously recounts his stepfather Benny the Bull's tumultuous history, adding levity to what could be a sensitive topic:
Langston Kerman [07:36]: "He was my stepdad years after he had been fired as Benny the Bull because he got caught selling drugs after a game."
Despite the challenges, Langston reflects on his mother's ability to love passionately, even when it meant bringing transient figures into their lives. This insight provides a deeper understanding of the complexities in blended families.
Introducing Langston Kerman
Ego formally introduces Langston, highlighting his accomplishments as an actor, writer, and comedian known for roles in "Insecure," "High Maintenance," and "The Boys." She mentions his latest Netflix special, "Bad Poetry," setting the stage for an engaging and insightful discussion.
Parenting Styles and Discipline
The conversation shifts to Langston's relationship with his biological father, a disciplined and academically-focused presence in his life. Langston credits his father with instilling a strong work ethic and academic prowess, which significantly benefited his educational journey.
Langston Kerman [35:18]: "I think a lot of my ability to sort of maneuver through school I can largely attribute to like my dad and him helping me figure out how to like solve equations and write essays."
Ego contrasts this with her own experience, having been raised without a father figure, highlighting the different dynamics and expectations in their respective upbringings.
Sibling Relationships and Role Expectations
Langston discusses the challenges of being the eldest sibling, often taking on responsibilities beyond his years due to his age gap with his younger siblings. This role sometimes blurred the lines between brotherhood and mentorship, leading to a complex dynamic.
Langston Kerman [20:05]: "I think in this case, you could be old enough to be my dad."
He reflects on the tension that arises when older siblings assume disciplinarian roles, emphasizing the difficulty in maintaining playful relationships amidst these expectations.
The Power of Apology in Parenting
A significant theme emerges as Langston and Ego explore the importance of apologizing in parent-child relationships. Langston shares his journey towards becoming a more empathetic and communicative parent, aiming to fill the emotional gaps he perceived in his own upbringing.
Langston Kerman [45:18]: "I am the type of parent that apologizes, which isn't always easy, but... I want to be able to see Sort of these missing holes in my own upbringing and fill them rather than sort of like carrying them forward."
Ego emphasizes the transformative power of apologies, highlighting how it fosters forgiveness and strengthens familial bonds.
Balancing Discipline and Playfulness
Langston candidly discusses the challenges of disciplining his young daughter while maintaining a playful relationship. He shares anecdotes about navigating toddler meltdowns, underscoring the delicate balance parents must strike between authority and affection.
Langston Kerman [54:06]: "I can still apologize for that. Even though you're a psychopath path who has no business asking for this hat."
This humorous yet honest portrayal underscores the complexities of parenting young children and the constant learning curve involved.
Advice on Modern Dating
As the episode approaches its conclusion, Ego steers the conversation towards dating advice, reflecting the podcast's overarching theme. Langston offers pragmatic insights on handling dating scenarios, emphasizing honesty and self-respect.
Langston Kerman [64:12]: "I think, number one, you do not owe them any response. And I think frankly, ghosting is a lot healthier than we give it credit for."
His perspective encourages listeners to prioritize personal well-being over societal expectations, advocating for authenticity in romantic interactions.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Langston promoting his own podcast, showcasing the mutual support and camaraderie between Ego and his guest. This exchange highlights the collaborative spirit of "Thanks Dad," fostering meaningful dialogues about fatherhood, personal growth, and the evolving dynamics of modern parenting.
Notable Quotes:
- Langston Kerman [00:26]: "Well, it's just a devastating way for me to find out."
- Langston Kerman [07:36]: "He was my stepdad years after he had been fired as Benny the Bull because he got caught selling drugs after a game."
- Langston Kerman [35:18]: "I think a lot of my ability to sort of maneuver through school I can largely attribute to like my dad and him helping me figure out how to like solve equations and write essays."
- Langston Kerman [45:18]: "I am the type of parent that apologizes, which isn't always easy, but... I want to be able to see Sort of these missing holes in my own upbringing and fill them rather than sort of like carrying them forward."
- Langston Kerman [54:06]: "I can still apologize for that. Even though you're a psychopath path who has no business asking for this hat."
- Langston Kerman [64:12]: "I think, number one, you do not owe them any response. And I think frankly, ghosting is a lot healthier than we give it credit for."
Final Thoughts
This episode of "Thanks Dad" masterfully intertwines humor with profound reflections on fatherhood, parenting, and personal development. Langston Kerman's candidness offers listeners a relatable and insightful exploration of navigating familial relationships and the responsibilities of modern parenting. Ego Nwodim's empathetic hosting ensures a balanced and engaging conversation, making the episode both entertaining and thought-provoking.