Podcast Summary: The HoneyDew with Ryan Sickler – Episode 321: Michael Yo Was Patient Zero

In Episode 321 of The HoneyDew with Ryan Sickler, comedian Michael Yo joins host Ryan Sickler to share his deeply personal and harrowing experience as an early COVID-19 patient, alongside insights into his unique comedic journey and family life. The conversation delves into themes of resilience, the transformative impact of illness, the importance of family, and reflections on career and education.

1. Introduction of the Guest

Ryan Sickler welcomes Michael Yo to the show, highlighting their mutual connections in the comedy world. Michael promotes his latest comedy special, "Snack Daddy," and announces his upcoming "Issa True Tour," explaining the origin of its name from his mother's saying, "Issa True."

Notable Quote:

• Michael Yo [04:22]: "I got a brand new Comedy special that just, just came out. It's called Snack Daddy."

2. Family Background and Early Life

Michael Yo provides an overview of his multicultural heritage, with a Korean mother and a Black father. He shares amusing anecdotes about his parents' meeting—his mother's account involving dancing on a pole at a club versus his father's story of meeting her at the same club but under different circumstances. Their 51-year marriage is characterized by loving verbal combat, which often serves as a source of comedy in Michael's acts and podcasts.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Yo [05:13]: "Well, it's two different stories. My mom said she was at a bar and they met through a mutual friend. My dad said when he met my mom, she was on a pole."
• Michael Yo [05:49]: "Love verbal combat. Like, one upping each other. Not ever mean, but they go back and forth."

3. Comedy Career and Style

Michael discusses his approach to comedy, emphasizing family-oriented humor and avoiding the pitfalls that have marred other comedians' careers. He aspires to be a family comedian with an edge, differentiating himself from peers by focusing on relatable, wholesome content without crossing ethical boundaries.

Notable Quote:

• Michael Yo [06:51]: "I do family comedy, you know, I want to be that guy... a little bit edgier, but I think there's a big opening, and that's what I do."

4. COVID-19 Experience: Patient Zero

a. Infection and Initial Symptoms

Michael recounts attending a sold-out show at Gotham in New York, a notorious super spreader event, where he interacted with approximately 1,500 attendees. Shortly after returning, he began experiencing severe symptoms, initially mistaking them for exhaustion from touring.

Notable Quote:

• Michael Yo [08:35]: "Literally, I woke up gasping for air."

b. Hospitalization and ICU

Three days post-lockdown, Michael was hospitalized with COVID-19 and pneumonia. He describes the chaos and fear within the medical staff, who were unprepared for his severe condition. Despite being young and otherwise healthy, he faced life-threatening complications, including a high fever and intense pain that led to hallucinations.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Yo [11:11]: "This could be Covid... you better get away from her."
• Michael Yo [12:00]: "I was the only one in there, you know?"

c. Medical Treatment and Challenges

Michael details the uncertainty of his treatment during the early days of the pandemic. Medical professionals were experimenting with various drugs without a standardized treatment protocol. He faced excruciating pain and the psychological toll of potentially not surviving, compounded by limited communication with his family.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Yo [13:05]: "I saw myself standing next to myself listening to the doctors."
• Michael Yo [16:04]: "They were putting people on ventilators because it's almost like putting a person on ice."

d. Recovery and Long-term Impact

After nine grueling days in the hospital, Michael was discharged under dire warnings about his prognosis. He underwent prolonged isolation, suffering from long COVID symptoms such as loss of smell and persistent fatigue. The experience profoundly affected his outlook on life, emphasizing the fragility of existence and the importance of cherishing family moments.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Yo [39:46]: "I have long COVID, so it took about a year before I felt."
• Michael Yo [43:57]: "You always lose focus of that moment. You gotta keep reminding yourself where you almost wasn't here."

5. Reflections on Life and Family

Michael expresses deep gratitude for surviving COVID-19 and the renewed focus it brought to his life. He underscores the significance of being present for his children and the unwavering support of his wife. The ordeal reinforced his commitment to providing for his family and appreciating the everyday moments that often go unnoticed.

Notable Quotes:

• Michael Yo [19:05]: "I think about it a lot... I don't think I'd be the person I am today."
• Michael Yo [26:28]: "I'm getting older. Sometimes I'm like, I can't imagine being 30 years older and that feeling."

6. Views on Education and Career Choices

The discussion shifts to the value of formal education versus practical experience. Michael and Ryan critique the conventional educational pathways, particularly the steep costs of degrees that may not provide direct benefits in certain careers like communication. They advocate for a more diversified educational approach, incorporating business and practical skills alongside traditional studies.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Sickler [31:48]: "I wouldn't set my sight on this piece of paper. I would diversify my classes."
• Michael Yo [32:18]: "Everything's changing... school can't teach you how to have a personality."

7. Advice to Younger Self

Towards the end of the episode, Michael offers heartfelt advice to his younger self, emphasizing the importance of discernment and caution in trusting others. He highlights the inevitability of encountering deceit in both personal and professional realms, urging his younger self to lead with the heart while maintaining wisdom.

Notable Quote:

• Michael Yo [61:05]: "People will lie to your face for advancement... lead with your heart, but don't be dumb."

8. Closing Remarks and Final Promotions

Michael wraps up by promoting his comedy special and tour once more, expressing gratitude for the platform to share his story. The episode concludes with mutual appreciation between Ryan and Michael, underscoring the human connections forged through shared experiences and storytelling.

Notable Quote:

• Michael Yo [61:37]: "I appreciate it."

Conclusion

Episode 321 of The HoneyDew with Ryan Sickler offers a profound and introspective look into Michael Yo's life, blending humor with the stark realities of battling a life-threatening illness. Through his candid storytelling, Michael emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit, the paramount importance of family, and the nuanced path of a comedian navigating personal and professional challenges.