Podcast Summary: The Wayback with Ryan Sickler – Episode 77: Adrian Apalucci

Release Date: June 19, 2025
Host: Ryan Sickler
Guest: Adrian Apalucci

Introduction

In Episode 77 of The Wayback with Ryan Sickler, host Ryan Sickler welcomes comedian and performer Adrian Apalucci to the nostalgic and candid conversation that defines the show. The episode delves deep into Adrian's upbringing in the Bronx, her family dynamics, school experiences, and the cultural influences that shaped her humor and outlook on life.

Family and Childhood in the Bronx

Adrian begins by reminiscing about her early childhood experiences in the Bronx. She shares vivid memories of family vacations, which were unconventional compared to typical leisure trips. Instead of traditional vacations, Adrian’s family would drive to Pennsylvania to visit her aunt who was terminally ill.

Adrian Apalucci [04:56]:
"We basically drove to see my aunt in Pennsylvania every year who was dying. That was like, our vacation."

Ryan empathizes with Adrian's experience, revealing a personal connection as he discusses his recent loss and the memory of seeing his great-grandmother.

Ryan Sickler [06:05]:
"Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me."

Through these exchanges, the episode highlights the bittersweet nature of family obligations intertwined with personal loss.

School Experiences and Early Memories

The conversation shifts to Adrian’s school life. She attended St. Clair's Catholic School, where she recounts various anecdotes that illustrate the strict and sometimes harsh environment she grew up in.

Adrian Apalucci [15:28]:
"St. Clair's Yep, that was my church."

Adrian describes incidents that contributed to her dark sense of humor, such as her father's disciplinary methods and the lack of adequate support systems.

Adrian Apalucci [15:44]:
"This is where I think my dark sense of humor started in this, in this school."

Ryan and Adrian discuss the challenges of growing up in a Catholic school, touching upon topics like puberty and the uncomfortable lessons taught during health classes.

Ryan Sickler [27:14]:
"But I was like, no. And I remember, too. I didn't know about a placenta."

Family Dynamics and Cultural Influences

Adrian provides an in-depth look into her family's cultural background, emphasizing their Italian heritage and the resulting family dynamics. She shares stories about family feuds, particularly with a neighboring Spanish family, highlighting the cultural tensions and playful antagonism that characterized her upbringing.

Adrian Apalucci [14:07]:
"The Eversanos lived there. And I remember, like, the son came out with a knife one day. It was just wild."

The discussion also delves into holiday traditions, contrasting typical Italian festivities with the occasional tension that arose during family gatherings.

Adrian Apalucci [20:21]:
"Like Thanksgiving, you're having a turkey and you're also having like big cedar lasagna."

Ryan reflects on his own Italian heritage, drawing parallels between their experiences and the rich culinary traditions that were a staple during their childhood holidays.

Personal Stories and Reflections

Adrian opens up about personal challenges, such as dealing with shared living spaces and the complexities of sibling relationships. She humorously recounts instances like the time her fan activity inadvertently affected her sister during hot summer nights.

Adrian Apalucci [18:42]:
"Three year difference we share. I'm older than her."

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Ryan shares the emotional difficulty of telling his daughter about his grandmother’s passing, mirroring the earlier discussion about family loss.

Ryan Sickler [06:00]:
"So not your mom?"

Adrian supports Ryan, offering empathy and understanding based on her own experiences with family bereavements.

Growing Up and Becoming a Comedian

Adrian reflects on her transition from a bright student to a comedian, contemplating what might have been had she pursued a different path.

Adrian Apalucci [18:05]:
"I was pretty smart."

Ryan and Adrian explore the notion of making a difference in the world versus the allure of entertainment, discussing the impacts of their respective career choices.

Adrian candidly discusses her first car, a black Honda Accord, and the mishaps that ensued, painting a relatable picture of teenage challenges.

Adrian Apalucci [32:34]:
"I got the black one and it had so many problems."

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Ryan invites listeners to support his live tour and Adrian promotes her Netflix special, "The Dark Queen." Their mutual respect and camaraderie shine through, encapsulating the essence of The Wayback—a blend of humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt conversation.

Adrian Apalucci [33:03]:
"Thanks for having me."

Ryan Sickler [33:19]:
"Go watch her special for sure and follow me on all social media."

Notable Quotes

• Adrian Apalucci [04:56]:
  "Imagine how bad the rest of the year was when you're, like, just getting cheered up watching someone die."

• Ryan Sickler [06:51]:
  "There's a dead body downstairs."

• Adrian Apalucci [20:21]:
  "Like Thanksgiving, you're having a turkey and you're also having like big cedar lasagna."

• Ryan Sickler [27:14]:
  "So you got bummed out."

Final Thoughts

Episode 77 of The Wayback with Ryan Sickler offers a heartfelt and humorous exploration of Adrian Apalucci's life, weaving together themes of family, culture, and personal growth. Through candid storytelling and reflective dialogue, Ryan and Adrian provide listeners with a richly engaging narrative that resonates with anyone reminiscing about their own past.

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Advisory: This episode contains discussions about loss and personal challenges. Listener discretion is advised.