Podcast Summary: You Made It Weird with Pete Holmes – Episode Featuring Annie Lederman

Release Date: May 21, 2025

In this lively and heartfelt episode of "You Made It Weird with Pete Holmes," host Pete Holmes engages in an in-depth and humorous conversation with fellow comedian Annie Lederman. The discussion traverses a wide range of topics, from personal anecdotes and family dynamics to comedy philosophies and spiritual explorations. Below is a detailed summary capturing the essence of their interaction, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps.

**1. **Introductions and Tour Announcements [00:00 - 01:53]

Pete kicks off the episode by warmly introducing Annie Lederman, highlighting her accomplishments, including her own podcast, "Annie Wood Podcast," and her appearance in "Grand Theft Auto 5." He also shares exciting news about his "Pete Here Now Tour," detailing sold-out shows and upcoming dates across various cities.

Notable Quote:

• Pete Holmes (00:41): "This is my favorite hour, I think, that I've ever written."

**2. **Lighthearted Banter and Initial Interactions [01:53 - 05:28]

The conversation begins with playful exchanges about sleep aids and eye health, setting a relaxed and humorous tone.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (02:01): "Are you fucking kidding me? You've ruined the whole podcast."
• Pete Holmes (02:18): "I don't mean to be."

**3. **Compliments and Perceptions [05:28 - 12:28]

Pete compliments Annie's effortless and calm demeanor, sparking a discussion about how others perceive her. They delve into the challenges of being treated with reverence before meeting the real person, emphasizing authenticity.

Notable Quotes:

• Pete Holmes (05:30): "There's an effortless and calm quality to you."
• Annie Lederman (07:00): "I learned that from the Ellen dance."

**4. **Comedy Careers and Personal Experiences [12:28 - 22:00]

Annie shares her rebellious youth, including getting her nipples pierced at 14 without a fake ID, leading to conversations about parental reactions and teenage defiance. They reminisce about their early careers, with Annie recounting her short-lived talk show stint and Pete discussing his experience shooting for Ellen.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (11:56): "I flashed my parents. It wouldn't. I'm like, whatever. These are your boobs, too."
• Pete Holmes (12:30): "I had a talk show for four episodes."

**5. **Family Dynamics and Sibling Relationships [22:00 - 40:00]

The dialogue shifts to family relationships, focusing on Annie's twin brother and older siblings. They explore the complexities of sibling bonds, competition, and the unique roles each family member plays.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (40:15): "We are obsessed with him."
• Pete Holmes (40:33): "He's the best. He's wonderful."

**6. **Stand-Up Philosophy and Performance Techniques [40:00 - 55:00]

Annie and Pete discuss their approaches to stand-up comedy, including writing processes, crowd work, and handling hecklers. Annie emphasizes her desire for connection through comedy, while Pete shares his method of transcribing performances to refine jokes.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (55:12): "I do a lot of crowd work."
• Pete Holmes (55:54): "If you could just do what feels right to you."

**7. **Spirituality and Personal Growth [55:00 - 75:00]

The conversation delves into spiritual practices such as ayahuasca ceremonies and breathwork retreats. Annie shares her transformative experiences and the role of spirituality in her personal development, while Pete reflects on his own journeys with psychedelics and self-discovery.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (57:35): "I was at a retreat in Costa Rica. I pulled the Zeus card."
• Pete Holmes (73:28): "Ketamine can become a vehicle into something very profound."

**8. Mental Health and Overcoming Challenges [75:00 - 95:00]

Annie opens up about overcoming alcoholism in 2009 and the importance of self-love and personal accountability. They discuss methods for maintaining mental well-being, including hypnosis and setting boundaries.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (98:36): "I quit drinking in January 2009 and never thought about it."
• Pete Holmes (100:34): "I have some PTSD symptoms and I'm working through them."

**9. Comedy Industry Insights and Networking [95:00 - 115:00]

Annie recounts her experiences auditioning for Pete's now-defunct show "Crashing," highlighting the camaraderie and competitive spirit among female comedians. They touch upon the challenges of standing out in a crowded industry and the importance of authenticity.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (101:03): "I sent my audition tape from a hot tub."
• Pete Holmes (105:12): "Everybody did beautifully. It was a sweet healing moment."

**10. Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors [115:00 - End]

As the episode winds down, Annie and Pete reflect on their comedic journeys, the importance of connection through humor, and the continuous pursuit of personal growth. They share lighthearted exchanges about upcoming shows and mutual admiration.

Notable Quotes:

• Annie Lederman (120:21): "I'm a natural born leader, so people say."
• Pete Holmes (123:08): "Go to Instagram to follow me and check out Annie Wood Podcast."

Conclusion

This episode stands out for its genuine and unfiltered conversation between two talented comedians. Annie Lederman and Pete Holmes navigate through personal stories, professional insights, and deep reflections with humor and honesty. Listeners are treated to an engaging dialogue that not only entertains but also offers meaningful perspectives on life, comedy, and self-discovery.

Tune in to "You Made It Weird with Pete Holmes" to experience more such enriching conversations with remarkable guests like Annie Lederman.