Podcast Summary: "We Might Be Drunk" – Episode Featuring Jessica Kirson

Release Date: August 4, 2025

Produced by Gotham Production Studios, LLC

In this engaging episode of "We Might Be Drunk," hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand delve deep into the multifaceted world of comedy with special guest Jessica Kirson. The trio navigates personal stories, the intricacies of touring, handling hecklers, and societal changes, all while maintaining their characteristic humor and candidness.

1. Jessica Kirson’s Journey and Coming Out Story

The episode kicks off with a heartfelt introduction of Jessica Kirson. Mark Normand shares a memorable story about Jessica’s experience at the Gotham Comedy Club:

• [00:32] Jessica Kirson: "I went to Gotham Comedy Club and I wasn't out yet. The minute I walked in, Judy Gold was like, 'Hey, you big dyke.' It was so uncomfortable."

This incident highlights the challenges Jessica faced while coming out and the unexpected support—or lack thereof—from fellow comedians.

2. Navigating Labels and Acceptance in Comedy

The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of sexual orientation labels within the comedy community:

• [01:21] Mark Normand: "That was my way of being like, I'm okay with it. I don't give a shit."

Jessica emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance over seeking approval from others, noting:

• [01:20] Jessica Kirson: "It's about you and how you feel about it. It's not that other people are okay with it."

3. Handling Hecklers: Personal Anecdotes and Strategies

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around dealing with hecklers and maintaining composure during performances. Jessica recounts a particularly intense encounter:

• [14:28] Jessica Kirson: "I snapped. I saw red. I said, 'Don't you ever fucking talk to me. You probably treat her like shit.' The crowd heard it all."

Mark Normand shares a similar experience, detailing a confrontation that escalated on stage:

• [16:29] Mark Normand: "I was holding the microphone while a huge guy was trying to heckle me. I had to manage the situation without letting it ruin the show."

Jessica and the hosts discuss the delicate balance between standing up for oneself and maintaining professionalism, acknowledging that such moments can both alienate and endear them to the audience.

4. Touring Tales: From Clubs to International Stages

The trio delves into their touring experiences, sharing stories from various venues and countries:

• Jessica Kirson talks about performing in theaters and the unique challenges they present compared to clubs.

• Mark Normand recounts a harrowing experience in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where a heckler became physically confrontational:

  • [27:05] Mark Normand: "He stood up and started walking toward the stage. I just walked off and ran."

• Joe List shares his experiences at international venues, including a sex club in Berlin:

  • [54:02] Jessica Kirson: "I was at a sex club in Berlin, and things got wild with pools and swings. It was a trippy experience."

The discussion highlights the unpredictability of live performances and the diverse environments comedians navigate across different cultures.

5. Coping with Bombing and Developing On-Stage Personas

Jessica Kirson opens up about her methods for handling performances that aren’t going well:

• [11:03] Jessica Kirson: "When a joke bombs, I turn around and engage in an inner monologue persona. It helps me stay present and keep moving forward."

Mark shares his approach to acknowledging when a set isn’t working:

• [12:13] Mark Normand: "It's a mix of self-confidence and self-hatred, but it emerged from years of therapy and personal struggle."

The hosts discuss the psychological toll of comedy and the importance of coping mechanisms to sustain long-term careers.

6. Personal Lives: Relationships and Family Balances

The conversation briefly touches on personal relationships, with Jessica introducing her partner, Sarah, and discussing her background:

• [66:21] Jessica Kirson: "My partner Sarah grew up Hasidic and couldn’t come out until she was in her 20s. She’s now a therapist and has written a book about her experiences."

This segment underscores the intersection of personal identity and professional life, emphasizing the supportive networks comedians build outside the spotlight.

7. Peeves and Everyday Annoyances

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts and Jessica share their pet peeves, transitioning from personal experiences to relatable everyday frustrations:

• Joe List: "I hate when people criticize something I didn’t do, like delays with Uber. It’s frustrating to take responsibility for something beyond my control."

• Jessica Kirson: "People using speakerphone in public spaces is incredibly rude and invasive."

• Mark Normand: "I can’t stand when strangers act condescendingly, like asking 'Are you okay?' when it’s obvious they're just projecting their stress."

These light-hearted exchanges provide listeners with humorous yet relatable insights into the comedians' daily lives beyond the stage.

8. Upcoming Shows and Europe Tour Excitement

The episode concludes with an enthusiastic discussion about upcoming performances and tours:

• Mark Normand outlines his extensive tour schedule across various U.S. cities and Europe:

  • [87:31] Mark Normand: "Barcelona, Lisbon, Dublin, and Berlin are next on my list. Can't wait to hit Europe again."

• Joe List shares his excitement for shows, mentioning highlights like performing in Amsterdam and upcoming specials:

  • [88:57] Joe List: "I'm heading to Athens next. Comedy in Greece is something I’m pumped about."

• Jessica Kirson promotes her new Hulu special titled "I'm the Man," expressing pride in her work:

  • [85:03] Jessica Kirson: "I have my new Hulu special called 'I'm the Man.' It was executive produced by Bill Bird, and I’m really proud of it."

The hosts encourage listeners to check out their shows and follow their tour dates for more comedy content.

Notable Quotes:

• Jessica Kirson [00:32]: "Judy Gold was like, 'Hey, you big dyke.' It was so uncomfortable."

• Mark Normand [01:21]: "That was my way of being like, I'm okay with it. I don't give a shit."

• Jessica Kirson [14:28]: "I snapped. I saw red."

• Mark Normand [27:05]: "I was holding the microphone while a huge guy was trying to heckle me."

• Jessica Kirson [11:03]: "When a joke bombs, I turn around and engage in an inner monologue persona."

Conclusion

This episode of "We Might Be Drunk" offers an unfiltered glimpse into the lives of professional comedians battling personal and professional challenges. Through Jessica Kirson’s candid storytelling and the hosts’ shared experiences, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and adaptability required in the world of comedy. The blend of humor, vulnerability, and insightful discussions makes this episode both entertaining and enlightening for those aspiring to enter the field or fans eager to learn more about their favorite comedians.