The Nikki Glaser Podcast - Episode #511: Insane Crowds, So Much Karaoke & Giving Sean The Chill Pill

Release Date: February 20, 2025
Host: Nikki Glaser
Co-Hosts: Sean O'Connor, Matt, Brian Frangie, Noah Avior
Produced by: Big Money Players Network and iHeartPodcasts

1. Balancing Life On Stage vs. Off Stage

The episode kicks off with Nikki Glaser delving into the dichotomy between her on-stage persona and her off-stage self. She discusses the challenges of performing when under the spotlight versus being in a more relaxed environment.

Nikki Glaser:
"I am way better when the pressure's on... when I'm out on stage, all of these apprehensions disappear."
[03:38]

Co-host Matt contrasts this by expressing his discomfort with hearing his own voice, emphasizing how self-awareness can hinder performance.

Matt:
"I like to pretend we're not being recorded so I could be super unfiltered."
[04:08]

2. Struggles with Self-Esteem and Imposter Syndrome

Nikki opens up about her ongoing battle with self-esteem and imposter syndrome, revealing her deep-seated insecurities despite her public success.

Nikki Glaser:
"I think I'm just constantly... I just can’t believe anyone is entertained by me. I can’t believe that I've tricked everyone."
[05:25]

Sean O'Connor empathizes, suggesting that Nikki's need for external validation might be fueling her insecurities.

Sean O'Connor:
"You don't get any benefit from doing anything other than getting praise... you need to get that praise from people watching you."
[05:11]

3. The Hype Video Conundrum

The conversation shifts to the creation and impact of hype videos used to promote Nikki's shows. Nikki expresses her discomfort with these videos, feeling they don't accurately represent her true self.

Nikki Glaser:
"I didn’t want anyone to laugh because they're not in the performance where that joke had context."
[07:34]

Sean offers a different perspective, suggesting that the hype video serves to energize the audience and set the stage for the live performance.

Sean O'Connor:
"It's supposed to be there to get people amped... it's like a trailer for your favorite comedian before they come out on stage."
[17:47]

4. A Stressful Private Jet Experience

A significant portion of the episode recounts Nikki and her co-hosts' tumultuous experience flying on a private jet. The ordeal includes extended time on the tarmac, anxiety-inducing moments, and frustration with the service provided.

Nikki Glaser:
"We were just standing there... waiting in the cold in a pitch-dark airplane with not even the ignition turned on."
[45:26]

Sean reflects on the unpredictability of private jet services, noting that high cost doesn't always equate to quality.

Sean O'Connor:
"Just because something's expensive doesn't mean it's going to be good."
[46:19]

The group discusses their encounters with the flight crew, highlighting the lack of communication and empathy during stressful situations.

Nikki Glaser:
"Why don’t they just communicate to people? Something that will help people feel better?"
[38:35]

5. Coping Mechanisms: The "Chill Pill"

During the episode, Nikki introduces the "Chill Pill," a device designed to help manage anxiety through mild physical stimulation. She shares personal anecdotes about its effectiveness and encourages listeners to consider it as a tool for mental health.

Nikki Glaser:
"Look up the chill pill on Amazon. They're 60 bucks... it makes you focus on something that isn't your thoughts."
[50:18]

Matt shares his positive experience using the device during a panic attack, reinforcing its potential benefits.

Matt:
"I just went on stage with a panic attack and pushed through it. After, I used the chill pill and felt incredible."
[49:13]

6. Post-Show Adventures: Karaoke in Portland

After discussing flight anxiety, Nikki recounts her recent trip to Portland, highlighting enjoyable moments such as brunches and karaoke nights. She shares humorous interactions and observations about the city's vibrant nightlife.

Nikki Glaser:
"Portland was amazing... so much fun singing and hanging out after the show."
[54:37]

The group visits various karaoke venues, including a themed bar and a strip club offering "stripper karaoke." Nikki describes the unique atmosphere and her mixed feelings about the experience.

Nikki Glaser:
"These women are so talented, so acrobatic, so hot... but I just didn’t want to be the center of attention."
[60:22]

7. Embracing Vulnerability and Moving Forward

Towards the end of the episode, Nikki reflects on the importance of vulnerability and self-acceptance. She acknowledges her ongoing journey with depression and anxiety but expresses gratitude for the support from her friends and co-hosts.

Nikki Glaser:
"I feel proud of myself for doing something... my depression has lifted, I’m feeling a little bit more clear-headed."
[64:09]

Sean and the others reinforce the value of shared experiences and mutual support in maintaining mental well-being.

Sean O'Connor:
"Experiencing the road, like that's part of how people say they stay sane on the road."
[64:17]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Nikki Glaser:
  "I think I'm just constantly... I just can’t believe anyone is entertained by me."
  [05:25]

• Sean O'Connor:
  "You don't get any benefit from doing anything other than getting praise... you need to get that praise from people watching you."
  [05:11]

• Nikki Glaser:
  "Why don’t they just communicate to people? Something that will help people feel better."
  [38:35]

• Matt:
  "I just went on stage with a panic attack and pushed through it. After, I used the chill pill and felt incredible."
  [49:13]

• Nikki Glaser:
  "Look up the chill pill on Amazon. They're 60 bucks... it makes you focus on something that isn't your thoughts."
  [50:18]

Conclusion

In this candid episode, Nikki Glaser opens up about her personal struggles with self-esteem, anxiety, and the pressures of maintaining a public persona. Through honest discussions with her co-hosts, she explores coping mechanisms, such as the "Chill Pill," and shares relatable experiences from her tour, including the highs of performing and the lows of managing mental health. The episode underscores the importance of vulnerability, self-compassion, and the unwavering support of friends in navigating the complexities of life both on and off stage.

Enjoy the full episode on YouTube and subscribe to @nikki_glaser_pod for more insightful conversations.