The JTrain Podcast: How to Turn a Breakup Into a Comedy Special with Eric Neumann

Release Date: May 21, 2025
Host: Jared Freid
Guest: Eric Newman
Special Mention: Eric Newman's Comedy Special "Almost Engaged"

Introduction and Special Promotion

In this episode of The JTrain Podcast, host Jared Freid welcomes back comedian Eric Newman for a lively Chit Chat Wednesday session. Jared enthusiastically introduces Eric’s latest comedy special, "Almost Engaged", highlighting its humorous take on the complexities of engagement and its subsequent unraveling.

Jared Freid [00:00]: "Today's guest, he's been on the J Train podcast before. He's a fantastic comic, Eric Newman... His special is called Almost Engaged."

Personal Stories and Family Matters

Eric opens up about his current living situation, sharing a humorous yet heartfelt story about his brother's divorce. Due to his brother still paying rent to his ex-wife, Eric has taken him in, leading to amusing household dynamics, including a peculiar painting that Eric's brother insisted on displaying.

Eric Newman [03:19]: "I'm in a small one-bedroom apartment again."

Jared Freid [04:43]: "Your brother is going through a divorce... And then he says, put this painting on the wall."

Eric describes the painting as a constant reminder of his brother's failed engagement, adding a layer of comedy to an otherwise stressful situation.

Dating Life and Napkin Newman

Transitioning to lighter topics, Jared and Eric delve into Eric's unique approach to dating. Unlike many comedians who rely on dating apps, Eric prefers a nostalgic method of leaving napkin notes for women he finds interesting during his shows. This quirky tactic has earned him the nickname “Napkin Newman.”

Eric Newman [07:55]: "I just started seeing someone. It's only like a month... I've actually met her at the Cellar, and I do this thing now... they call me Napkin Newman over there now."

Jared and Eric exchange amusing anecdotes about the successes and failures of this method, including a particularly embarrassing first attempt that became a source of laughter among Eric’s friends.

Eric Newman [19:43]: "I wrote a napkin note... it was just so, so sad, bro."

Navigating Comedy and Personal Trauma

A significant portion of the conversation centers around how Eric transformed his personal heartbreak into comedic material. He discusses the delicate balance of being honest without crossing into vindictiveness, emphasizing respect for his ex despite the painful breakup.

Jared Freid [22:51]: "Did you have a ring?"

Eric Newman [23:03]: "I was almost engaged. Talk about... it was the most heartbreaking thing I've ever experienced."

Eric explains his process of healing through comedy, highlighting how sharing his story on stage helped him reach a state of emotional recovery.

Eric Newman [29:18]: "It was time to get it out."

Favorite Jokes and Writing Process

Jared and Eric explore the intricacies of crafting comedy from real-life experiences. Eric shares insights into his favorite jokes from his special, particularly those detailing the logistics of his breakup and the challenges of reapplying for an apartment post-engagement.

Eric Newman [30:29]: "So she moved out... the premise of the joke is like... I made more money than breadwinner. Look what you lost."

They discuss the evolution of jokes and how comedians decide when a bit is polished enough to perform, balancing instinct with continuous refinement.

Eric Newman [31:21]: "I just kind of go off my instinct... I keep going. I don't try to dwell on it."

Conclusion and Final Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Jared urges listeners to watch Eric’s upcoming special, "Almost Engaged", available on YouTube and other platforms. He commends Eric’s ability to blend personal storytelling with humor, making the special a must-watch for anyone navigating the tumultuous waters of relationships and breakups.

Jared Freid [34:59]: "You see those couples that are doing well for, like, a bad reason... watch the special."

The hosts share mutual appreciation for each other's comedic talents, setting the stage for future engaging conversations on upcoming episodes.

Eric Newman [35:30]: "Thanks, JTrain. I appreciate it."

Key Takeaways:

• Turning Personal Pain into Comedy: Eric Newman demonstrates how personal experiences, even painful ones like a broken engagement, can be transformed into relatable and humorous content.

• Unique Dating Tactics: Eschewing traditional dating apps, Eric’s “Napkin Newman” approach adds a charming and creative twist to finding connections.

• Balancing Honesty and Humor: Both Jared and Eric emphasize the importance of being truthful in their comedy without delving into negativity, maintaining respect for personal relationships.

• Evolving Comedy Material: The discussion highlights the iterative nature of comedy writing, where jokes are continuously refined and developed based on audience reactions and personal growth.

Notable Quotes:

• Eric Newman [07:55]: "I've actually met her at the Cellar, and I do this thing now. Wait, Jared, I don't know if I told you this, so I'll occasionally, like, I'll drop off a napkin note if I see it on the crowd that I really like."

• Jared Freid [10:16]: "Nothing is more attractive... You want to get a guy a good laugh... You want to get a guy a good laugh, to me, is like, that is everything."

• Eric Newman [22:22]: "It was definitely the most heartbreaking thing I've ever experienced... the final product, I think I really did a good job of keeping it respectful."

This episode of The JTrain Podcast offers an insightful and humorous exploration of turning personal setbacks into comedic triumphs, showcasing Eric Newman’s resilience and creativity in the face of relationship challenges. Whether you're a fan of stand-up comedy or simply intrigued by the human experience, this episode provides a compelling listen full of laughs and heartfelt moments.