The JTrain Podcast: Oversharing with Anthony DeVito - CHIT CHAT WEDNESDAY

Episode Overview Release Date: May 7, 2025

In this engaging episode of The JTrain Podcast, host Jared Freed welcomes his longtime friend and Original Key Player (OKP), Anthony DeVito. The duo delves into their decade-long friendship, the dynamics of commoditizing personal relationships through podcasting, and Anthony's upcoming comedy special. The conversation is a seamless blend of humor, candid insights, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, offering listeners a deep dive into the lives of two comedians navigating the modern entertainment landscape.

1. Introduction and Upcoming Comedy Special

The episode kicks off with Jared enthusiastically promoting Anthony DeVito's upcoming comedy special. Anthony is set to perform at The Gutter in Brooklyn on Friday, May 9th, with two showtimes at 8:00 PM and 10:30 PM.

Notable Quote:

• Jared Freed [00:00]: "Anthony is taping a special this Friday in Brooklyn. Go, go, go. [...] Get tickets to Anthony's show and enjoy today's episode."

2. Chit Chat Wednesday Format and Friendship Dynamics

Jared highlights the unique Chit Chat Wednesday format, emphasizing the authenticity of his conversations with Anthony. They discuss how their friendship has seamlessly translated into the podcast format, maintaining the same ease and camaraderie as in-person interactions.

Notable Quotes:

• Jared Freed [02:47]: "Every Wednesday is a Chit Chat Wednesday where I have a friend or comedian or expert."
• Anthony DeVito [03:27]: "Just good to be back in the JCU, man."

3. Commoditizing Friendships in Podcasting

A significant portion of their discussion centers on the challenges and nuances of turning personal friendships into content for a public audience. Jared reflects on how their interactions remain genuine despite the "commoditization" inherent in podcasting.

Notable Quotes:

• Jared Freed [00:00]: "You've commoditized your friendships to be able to have these conversations on the air."
• Anthony DeVito [04:32]: "This is not a favor. This is you doing me a favor. You're doing my podcast."

4. The Art of Podcasting and Personal Habits

A recurring topic is Anthony's habit of eating an apple during the podcast. They humorously discuss the audience’s potential annoyance with such habits and the balance between personal quirks and audience expectations.

Notable Quotes:

• Anthony DeVito [02:47]: "Say this too about an apple. And it's not a soft food."
• Jared Freed [15:08]: "Anthony kept crunching."
• Anthony DeVito [15:22]: "I've heard the complaints about me eating on podcasts and I've listened to the back. It's horrific."

5. Behind the Scenes of Stand-Up Comedy

Anthony shares insights into the preparation and execution of stand-up routines. They touch upon the difference between podcast performances and live stand-up, highlighting how each medium demands different approaches.

Notable Quotes:

• Jared Freed [16:18]: "What's your favorite joke? It's not the audience's favorite of the hour."
• Anthony DeVito [17:35]: "I did not think of the Yao Ming's dick bit."

6. Reflections on Comedy Specials and Content Creation

The conversation shifts to the intricacies of creating comedy specials. Jared and Anthony discuss the strategic efforts behind crafting material that resonates with audiences while maintaining personal authenticity.

Notable Quotes:

• Jared Freed [25:39]: "This is like an Applebee's situation. [...] Not really. It doesn't really have a ring to."
• Anthony DeVito [26:27]: "I like. That's why writing. I think writing like a sitcom with the comic is always the least interesting person on it."

7. Industry Insights and Personal Experiences

Towards the end of the episode, Jared and Anthony delve into broader industry topics, including reality TV, Broadway, and the challenges comedians face in maintaining their unique voices amidst commercial pressures.

Notable Quotes:

• Jared Freed [30:04]: "You get to perform alongside Broadway actors, [...] I'm like, who am I?"
• Anthony DeVito [34:19]: "It's par for the course."

8. Closing Thoughts and Final Promotions

As the episode wraps up, Jared reiterates the details of Anthony’s upcoming show, encouraging listeners to secure their tickets and support fellow comedians. The camaraderie between the hosts shines through, leaving listeners with a sense of anticipation for Anthony's performance.

Notable Quotes:

• Jared Freed [48:00]: "Everyone go to Anthony's taping. It's Friday night."
• Anthony DeVito [49:09]: "Thank you."

Key Takeaways:

• Authentic Friendships: Jared and Anthony exemplify how genuine relationships can form the backbone of engaging podcast content.
• Balancing Personal Quirks: Anthony's habit of eating during the podcast underscores the delicate balance between personal habits and audience preferences.
• Behind-the-Scenes of Comedy: Listeners gain a glimpse into the meticulous preparation that goes into stand-up routines and comedy specials.
• Industry Commentary: The hosts provide thoughtful critiques on broader entertainment trends, from reality TV antics to Broadway's demanding environment.

Conclusion This episode of The JTrain Podcast offers a rich tapestry of humor, personal anecdotes, and industry insights. Through candid conversations and shared laughter, Jared Freed and Anthony DeVito provide listeners with both entertainment and a deeper understanding of the comedic world. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, this episode promises to leave you both informed and amused.