Podcast Summary: We Might Be Drunk – Ep 219: Nick Swardson
Hosts: Sam Morril and Mark Normand
Guest: Nick Swardson
Release Date: February 17, 2025
Produced by: Gotham Production Studios, LLC
Introduction and Nick's Claustrophobia (00:00 - 01:14)
The episode kicks off with Nick Swardson joining hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand. The conversation quickly delves into Nick's severe claustrophobia, particularly his aversion to elevators.
Nick Swardson (00:11): "It’s an issue. It’s the biggest issue in New York... I just don’t take elevators. I’m really claustrophobic."
Nick shares his struggles navigating New York’s high-rise buildings, emphasizing his preference for taking the stairs despite the daunting 16 flights.
Mark Normand (00:26): "This is... Must be a problem for you."
Comedy Legends: Chaplin vs. Keaton (01:14 - 03:54)
The discussion shifts to classic comedy icons Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. Nick expresses his admiration for Chaplin, highlighting the physical comedy and stunts that made Chaplin a favorite.
Nick Swardson (04:00): "Chaplin was just a better comedian. He was just hilarious. He is one of my favorites."
Mark and Ari Mannis echo similar sentiments, comparing their favorite aspects of both comedians and debating their contributions to the silent film era.
Nick’s Early Comedy Days and Zach Galifianakis Stories (03:54 - 06:00)
Nick reminisces about his early days in comedy, sharing amusing anecdotes about living with Zach Galifianakis in New York during the late '90s. They recall spontaneous interactions with intimidating strangers, disarming them with unexpected friendliness.
Nick Swardson (02:10): "We would point to a guy... and just walk up to him and say, 'Hey, how you doing? You have a good Christmas?'"
He also touches on personal stories involving other comedians like Charlie Chaplin, further illustrating his deep roots in the comedy scene.
Comedic Mishaps: Elevator and Flight Stories (06:00 - 18:00)
Nick shares several harrowing yet humorous incidents related to his fear of elevators. From being stuck at the Ritz Hotel in Boston where he had to forcibly exit a stopped elevator, to a legendary story of being trapped for three and a half days—highlighting the absurdity and danger of elevator malfunctions.
Nick Swardson (11:04): "And I was like, jump. Jump."
He also recounts attempts to avoid drunk passengers in elevators and a memorable experience of stopping a commuter flight due to his anxiety.
Sam Morril (14:00): "I stopped a flight on a tarmac."
Opening for Comedy Legends and Industry Insights (18:00 - 35:00)
The conversation moves to Nick’s experiences opening for renowned comedians like Jay Moore, David Cross, Anthony Clark, and Janine Garofalo. He emphasizes the importance of supporting emerging talent, mentioning comedians like BJ Novak and Zach Galifianakis who benefited from his mentorship.
Nick Swardson (34:00): "They were all nice enough to bring me out on the road, which helped immensely."
Nick reflects on the camaraderie within the comedy community and the mutual support among comedians.
Almost in Tropic Thunder and The Zohan (35:00 - 42:00)
Nick recounts nearly landing roles in major Hollywood films such as "Tropic Thunder" and "The Zohan." Despite his initial enthusiasm, scheduling conflicts prevented his participation, leading to missed opportunities.
Nick Swardson (30:17): "And then I called Ben back and they were shooting at the exact same time."
He shares his admiration for these films and expresses regret over the timing that led to his exclusion.
Elevator Choices and Personal Growth (42:00 - 58:00)
Nick transitions to discussing his personal journey with alcohol. He narrates his experience living in Key West during COVID, indulging in daily drinking, and the eventual realization that led him to quit drinking altogether.
Nick Swardson (41:44): "I just don’t want to drink anymore. I’m over it."
He highlights the transformative period in Key West, where he simplified his lifestyle, sold his possessions, and embraced a more contented existence devoid of excessive drinking.
Police Encounters and Comedy’s Intersection with Daily Life (58:00 - 74:00)
Nick shares amusing yet intense stories about interactions with law enforcement. From a DUI encounter where his comedic responses impressed an officer, to his method of humorously navigating pull-overs.
Nick Swardson (66:50): "And I told it to him and he goes, 'That could work.'"
These anecdotes underscore the blend of his comedic talent with real-life experiences, illustrating how humor shapes his responses to stressful situations.
Touring Stories and Friendships in Comedy (74:00 - 90:00)
The episode continues with lively recounting of Nick’s touring experiences alongside Sam Morril and Mark Normand. He describes the camaraderie, mishaps, and humorous incidents that occur on the road, including interactions with other comedians like Andy Dick and Dana Carvey.
Nick Swardson (53:21): "We were all in a text thread... Norm took my idea for breakfast."
These stories highlight the strong bonds and shared humor among the comedy troupe, showcasing their collective journey through the comedy landscape.
Closing Remarks and Upcoming Tours (90:00 - End)
As the episode nears its end, the hosts and Nick discuss their upcoming tours and special events. They share plans for live shows, comedy specials, and the logistics of performing across various locations. Nick plugs his website and upcoming performances, emphasizing his readiness to continue engaging with fans and the comedy community.
Mark Normand (89:35): "I gotta go."
The episode wraps up with heartfelt goodbyes, celebrating the stories shared and the enduring friendships within the comedy circle.
Notable Quotes
- Nick Swardson (00:11): "I’m really claustrophobic. Keeps you thin."
- Nick Swardson (02:10): "We would point to a guy... and just walk up to him and say, 'Hey, how you doing? You have a good Christmas?'"
- Nick Swardson (11:04): "And I was like, jump. Jump."
- Nick Swardson (34:00): "They were all nice enough to bring me out on the road, which helped immensely."
- Sam Morril (14:00): "I stopped a flight on a tarmac."
- Nick Swardson (41:44): "I just don’t want to drink anymore. I’m over it."
- Nick Swardson (66:50): "And I told it to him and he goes, 'That could work.'"
Key Insights and Themes
- Personal Struggles: Nick’s battle with claustrophobia and overcoming alcoholism highlights the personal challenges faced by comedians.
- Comedy Community: The mutual support among comedians and the importance of mentoring emerging talent is a recurring theme.
- Humor in Adversity: Nick exemplifies how humor can be a coping mechanism in stressful and challenging situations.
- Career Reflections: Sharing near-misses and stories from the comedy circuit provides an insider’s view of the entertainment industry's dynamics.
Conclusion
Episode 219 of "We Might Be Drunk" offers an engaging blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and industry insights through the lens of Nick Swardson’s experiences. With rich storytelling and relatable content, the episode provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the life of a comedian, the bonds within the comedy community, and the resilience required to navigate personal and professional challenges.
For more episodes and updates, visit Gotham Production Studios, LLC.