Podcast Summary: We Might Be Drunk - Episode 226: Bert Kreischer & Ari Shaffir

Release Date: April 7, 2025
Produced by Gotham Production Studios, LLC

Introduction

In Episode 226 of "We Might Be Drunk," hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand are joined by the charismatic comedians Bert Kreischer and Ari Shaffir. As customary, the conversation weaves through personal anecdotes, insights into the comedy world, and the camaraderie that comes with sharing a drink or two in the vibrant backdrop of New York City.

Navigating Comedy and Podcasting

Bert Kreischer kicks off the discussion by reflecting on the challenges of balancing content between podcasts and stand-up acts. He shares, "I said something super funny on Chris Decephano and Giannis Pappas's podcast about therapy. And as soon as I said it, I went, I should have saved that for my act" (00:09). This sentiment opens up a broader conversation about how comedians manage their material across different platforms. Sam Morril challenges Bert, asking, "Why can't you just use it in your act?" (00:25), highlighting the fluidity comedians often navigate between mediums.

Bert emphasizes his strength as a storyteller, contrasting it with the quick, joke-heavy format preferred by his hosts: "I'm a storyteller" (02:26). This distinction underscores the diverse approaches within the comedy scene and the adaptability required to succeed in both stand-up and podcasting.

Personal Anecdotes and Comedic Inspirations

A significant portion of the episode delves into Bert's interactions with other comedians and celebrities. One standout story involves a chance encounter on a flight: Bert recounts meeting a male model who insisted on only drinking vodka due to his contract, prompting Bert to adopt Tito's vodka into his routine. He humorously notes, "And that day forward, I drank only Tito's" (04:53).

The conversation also touches on the influence of luck in comedy careers. Bert shares, "There is such a lucky moment where something really great happens to you, and then all of a sudden, it opens up the fucking world to you" (21:35). This leads to discussions about how unexpected events can catapult a comedian's career, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the industry.

Navigating Fame and Personal Relationships

Bert opens up about his personal life, particularly his marriage to Leanne Morgan. He humorously details their evolving relationship and Leanne's foray into more adventurous sexual experiences: "But we were in this wild phase right now. It's been really fun" (12:04). This candid conversation provides listeners with a glimpse into the dynamic lives of comedians beyond the stage.

The episode also explores the complexities of fame and recognition. Bert shares his experiences of being recognized in New York versus Paris, highlighting the differing cultural receptions: "New York's a weird place because they always check out Netflix" (29:34). These anecdotes underscore the varying impacts of fame in different locales.

Insights into the Comedy Industry

The hosts and guests discuss the evolving landscape of stand-up comedy, particularly the integration of political and personal narratives into humor. Sam Morril remarks, "I don't like how political every standup has become" (51:32), reflecting a common sentiment among comedians who prefer to focus on universal themes rather than divisive topics.

Bert counters this by illustrating the balance between personal storytelling and joke-writing, noting how his specials prioritize rapid-fire humor to maintain audience engagement: "It's getting a laugh every 12 seconds" (85:03). This strategy emphasizes the importance of pacing and timing in crafting successful stand-up performances.

Humor, Health, and Lifestyle Choices

Throughout the episode, the conversation frequently circles back to themes of alcohol consumption and its role in the comedians' lives. Bert shares his regimented approach to mitigating hangovers: "I drink every night. Minimum four liquid deaths right before bed" (35:06). This leads to a broader discussion about the cultural norms surrounding drinking in the comedy community and its impact on personal health.

Additionally, the speakers touch on various lifestyle choices that influence their comedic material and everyday lives, such as diet, exercise, and medical regimens. Mark Normand humorously links daily routines to comedic performance, saying, "I get my blood work every six months" (82:44), highlighting the intersection of personal well-being and professional life.

Closing Remarks and Upcoming Projects

As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts and guests excitedly discuss upcoming tours, specials, and collaborative projects. Bert promotes his Netflix special "Lucky," while Sam and Mark mention their active touring schedules across various cities. The camaraderie among the group is palpable, reinforcing the show's theme of friendship and shared experiences in the world of comedy.

Notable closing moments include lighthearted exchanges about future endeavors and humorous banter about their current state of inebriation: "You might be drunk. So am I" (157:36). These finales embody the show's relaxed and entertaining atmosphere, leaving listeners anticipating future episodes.

Conclusion

Episode 226 of "We Might Be Drunk" offers a multifaceted look into the lives of comedians navigating the delicate balance between personal storytelling and joke-centric humor. Through engaging anecdotes, insightful discussions about the comedy industry's dynamics, and the enduring bonds of friendship, Sam Morril, Mark Normand, Bert Kreischer, and Ari Shaffir deliver a rich and entertaining conversation. Not only does this episode provide laughs, but it also delves into the deeper aspects of what it means to live and succeed as a comedian in today's world.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content segments to focus solely on the episode's substantive discussions.