Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Re-Release)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Re-Release)" on You Made It Weird with Pete Holmes

Release Date: August 13, 2025
Host: Pete Holmes
Guest: Julia Louis-Dreyfus

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Introduction: Revisiting a Beloved Episode [00:00-02:39]

Pete Holmes opens the re-release of one of his favorite episodes featuring the acclaimed actress and comedian Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Expressing his excitement, Holmes remarks, "I still can't believe she came on the show. I'm so glad she did" (00:06). He emphasizes the joy of experiencing the conversation live with listeners rather than merely revisiting archives.

Early Careers and Artistic Beginnings [02:40-05:56]

Julia Louis-Dreyfus delves into her early days in acting, recounting her involvement in theater groups like the "University Players" and "Julia and the Umbrella People." She humorously describes performing heavy material with young children, saying, "I did a series... had five and six-year-olds in it" (04:15). Holmes and Louis-Dreyfus discuss the challenges and joys of balancing serious performances with young actors, highlighting the unexpected moments of humor that arise from such settings.

Transition to Television and Seinfeld [05:57-07:13]

The conversation shifts to Louis-Dreyfus's transition from theater to television, particularly her iconic role in Seinfeld. She reflects on the audition process, noting, "We sat on the couch and read this scene" (59:00). Their chemistry during auditions was palpable, setting the stage for the beloved ensemble cast of Seinfeld. Holmes adds, "We were howling. Laughing... we were having so much fun" (62:11), emphasizing the seamless collaboration that defined the show's success.

Navigating Fame and Public Recognition [07:24-20:03]

Louis-Dreyfus shares her experiences with fame, particularly the differences in public interactions compared to other celebrities. She mentions, "People often want to hug me and pick you up and put me in their pockets" (20:37), highlighting the unique challenges of being recognized for a beloved television character. Holmes relates by discussing how fame shapes personal interactions, adding depth to their mutual understanding of maintaining authenticity amidst public attention.

Personal Life and Coping with Challenges [20:04-44:48]

The duo touches on personal aspects, including Louis-Dreyfus's battle with cancer. She recounts, "I had to go through chemotherapy... I got through it" (85:27), illustrating her resilience and gratitude for life. Holmes empathizes, sharing his own struggles and emphasizing the therapeutic role of humor: "Laughter is the only way out" (88:24). Their candid discussion fosters a sense of vulnerability and mutual support, reinforcing the podcast's theme of embracing one's "weirdness" through honest conversations.

Spirituality and Philosophical Reflections [44:49-75:25]

Louis-Dreyfus and Holmes explore deeper philosophical and spiritual themes, discussing the mystery of existence and the role of spirituality in their lives. She states, "I'm a believer in the mystery of all of this, but I don't have a God per se that I pray to" (73:12). Holmes shares his experiences with meditation and spiritual retreats, highlighting how these practices help manage anxiety and foster a connection with the present moment.

Balancing Work and Personal Life [75:26-97:02]

The conversation transitions to balancing demanding careers with personal responsibilities. Louis-Dreyfus discusses the challenges of juggling a thriving career with motherhood, noting how her family support system plays a crucial role: "We help each other out" (32:05). They emphasize the importance of trusting one's instincts and maintaining genuine connections both on and off set.

Lessons Learned and Philosophical Insights [97:03-104:43]

In the latter part of the episode, Holmes and Louis-Dreyfus engage in a rapid-fire session, sharing personal anecdotes and life lessons. Louis-Dreyfus advises, "Please relax, it's going to be fine" (96:55), offering comfort and wisdom drawn from her experiences. They discuss the therapeutic power of laughter and the significance of trust and authenticity in both personal and professional realms.

Conclusion: Embracing the Present and Continuing the Journey [104:44-105:30]

As the episode wraps up, Holmes and Louis-Dreyfus share final thoughts on embracing the present moment and staying true to oneself. Holmes reflects on the importance of balance and gratitude, while Louis-Dreyfus reiterates the value of trusting one's journey: "Trust your instincts" (96:55).

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Notable Quotes:

• Julia Louis-Dreyfus: "I'm a believer in the mystery of all of this, but I don't have a God per se that I pray to." (73:12)

• Pete Holmes: "Laughter is the only way out." (88:24)

• Julia Louis-Dreyfus: "Please relax, it's going to be fine." (96:55)

• Pete Holmes: "Trust your instincts." (96:55)

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Key Takeaways:

• Authentic Conversations: The episode underscores the importance of genuine dialogue in understanding and embracing one's unique quirks and challenges.

• Resilience and Gratitude: Both hosts share personal struggles and triumphs, highlighting the role of resilience and gratitude in navigating life's obstacles.

• Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Effective management of personal responsibilities alongside a demanding career is essential for well-being.

• Philosophical and Spiritual Insights: Reflecting on the mysteries of existence and incorporating spiritual practices can provide solace and perspective.

• Power of Laughter: Humor serves as a therapeutic tool, helping individuals cope with stress and maintain emotional balance.

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This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the re-released episode, presenting the rich discussions between Pete Holmes and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. From early career anecdotes and navigating fame to profound philosophical insights and personal resilience, the conversation offers valuable lessons and heartfelt moments for listeners and non-listeners alike.

Transcript

[A]

You made it with.

[B]

You made it with. You made it with.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

You made it with weird. Yes, you did. You made it weird with Pete Holmes. What's happening, weirdos? This is a summer re release of one of my favorite episodes of all time and one of my favorite comedic actors. I guess I could just say actors, but also a very, very funny comedic performer. Oh, I like what I did there. Julia Louis Dreyfus. I still can't believe she came on the show. I'm so glad she did. She is here again. We're going to listen to it together because that's way more fun than just going back into the archives. Let's all get it in our feed and enjoy it at the same time. If you want, I am on tour. If you want, go to PeteHomes.com I'm coming to Washington, D.C. boston, New Hampshire. We also added New York, New York. I'll be at town hall in New York, New Jersey. All sorts of dates. Florida. All these are and more [e-mail]. hope you can be there. This is my favorite hour. I've been loving seeing weirdos out on the road. Hope you can join. And in the meantime, enjoy this chat with Julia Louis. There's no ads in this episode, but I'm going to do a promo code dump in like 30 seconds here. De stress your body with Shakti maps. Get an acupressure mat. Go to shakti mat.com and use promo code weird30. It's a million pokey spikes that go into your body and make you feel fantastic and melt away stress. Upgrade your summer with dad grass leisure drink. It's incredible. Go to dadgrass.com weird and use promo code weird for 20% off. Liberate your lower limbs. That sounds like I meant something else. I really just had to cough with the perfect gene. The most comfortable jeans I've ever owned in my life. Go to the PerfectGene NYC and use promo code NOHARDPANTS for 15% off. Upgrade your hydration drink LMNT DrinkElement.com and use promo code weird for a free sample pack. And give your testosterone a natural boost. I've been so obsessed with this. Up your drive, your energy and blood flow. Wink, wink, up. You can get 20% [e-mail] your first order with promo code weird. All right, Julia Louis, here we are. Get into it. I want to say that you're the first. We redid the studio and it's like kind of we sort of did it. We were like trying, you Were the guest. We were trying to be done. Believe it or not. This is the redone.

[A]

This is the redo.

[B]

This is the redo.

[A]

Well, I think it's good. I mean, I'm.

[B]

You should have seen it before.

[A]

I was gonna say there are some, like, scratches.

[B]

Yeah. Don't critique.

[A]

Well, you just asked me if I'm a shit talker.

[B]

Not to me.

[A]

Oh, okay.

[B]

You said. We said behind backs only. When you leave, say to Charlotte and.

[A]

William what a douchebag you are with this.

[B]

I don't know how my personality came into question with this. No. First, I just want you to feel welcome.

[A]

Thank you.

[B]

I'll be excited.

[A]

I'm very excited to be here.

[B]

Are you really?

[A]

Yeah, why not? I think you're funny. I like you. I like your podcast.

[B]

Y podcaster. Now just get it out right in the top. Wiser than Me. Available.

[A]

Wherever you get your podcast, you have.

[B]

To say it like you don't even know. I don't know. If you know. If you find out, tell me where I can find Wiser than Me.

[A]

You can find it on Apple and Spotify and wherever else you get your podcasts.

[B]

There's other ones, but we don't know them.

[A]

I don't know who they are.

[B]

Well, I'm glad you're doing it. Isn't it a joy?

[A]

It is a joy. It's a lot of work.

[B]

Yeah. I heard you say that on Conan's. How do you. What do you mean?

[A]

What I mean is, is that I, you know, it's not like I have other friends who podcast and they're like, oh, my God, it's so much fun. Just sit around, talk, and then it's done. But in this case, that, you know, I'm talking to some really, like, intelligent, intellectual, accomplished women.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So I.

[B]

Women. I'm just gonna imagine. Sorry, women. One I was picturing I have just blown your lab coats. You know, scholars.

[A]

Right. Exactly.

[B]

But no, that's the point of your podcast, is that older women. I don't know where the line is. Do you have a line?

[A]

70 ish.

[B]

Really? I thought you were going to say, like, middle age up. You're saying they have to be older than you?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Older and wiser.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Oh, wow.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

How many have you found so far?

[A]

I've done. I've had 10 conversations.

[B]

Okay. And it's a work. It's work because you admire them and you want to. You don't.

[A]

Yeah, I don't want to be. I want to be super prepared and I want to really have A thoughtful conversation about. About their experience in life and their. Their experience with aging. And I mean, just all of it.

[B]

You know, it's a thing. Right? I mean, why older women? The crone. Right? Yeah, I'm gonna say the crone. No, Mother maiden. Crone. Maiden mother. Crone. And we don't know what to do. I mean, I don't want to put words in your mouth, but it seems to me you're trying to address, like, as a society, it's like we don't know what to do with our elders in general, but especially, as I said, the Crohn's.

[A]

I think that the sort of. The old lady trope is a bummer.

[B]

House made of candy luring in children.

[A]

Exactly.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Hunched over.

[B]

Yes, yes.

[A]

And the old wise man on top the hill.

[B]

That's right.

[A]

Another trope.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

And I think it's time to. I would like very much to change that narrative. And, you know, so that. Because I really do believe that older women are a natural resource. Untapped. Very untapped.

[B]

You mean we could run. Use them for energy?

[A]

Yes, exactly. That is what I mean. You could put them on a bike and make them bike, and then it can create energy.

[B]

They love bikes.

[A]

They love horses. Yeah, but more bikes.

[B]

Yeah, they're bikes.

[A]

And you can get the energy off of, you know, pedaling.

[B]

I'm just saying you lure them in by being like, we have saltwater taffy. We have horses. The things that comfort them.

[A]

And this is how I get the guests on my show.

[B]

You call them on their phone, one of these. Hello, Eisenhower. Like one of those. And you call them up and you say, a podcast is like a radio, you know, that big.

[A]

That's Right.

[B]

Thing that looks like the front of a Chrysler.

[A]

Saltwater taffy.

[B]

That's all you have to say. Swt.

[A]

But they. The. And I mean, just. And selfishly, I just really want. I got the whole idea for this because I saw that Jane Fonda documentary and about, you know, life in five acts. That doc, which for those of your listeners who haven't seen. Seen it, it's so good.

[B]

Edit that out.

[A]

And. And I thought, oh, I must. I. I was struck by her life and how I didn't. I hadn't considered her. Her. The expanse of her life. And so I thought, wait a minute. What about all these other older women out there that we're not hearing from?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I personally would like to hear from them.

[B]

And what flavor are they giving other than saltwater taffy? What flavor are they giving that other people Aren't like what. What is. What are we plumbing in these depths? What has surprised you with the type of wisdom and advice that they're hitting?

[A]

Well, what has surprised me.

[B]

That might be an unfair question. It might be how they say it. Maybe it's not what they're saying, it's how they're saying. It might be a vibe that you get, like a comfort that you get. Tell me what you're getting without it necessarily.

[A]

Well, I think, I think the. I think it's terribly interesting to consider when aging and not being afraid of it and maybe thinking about it as an ex. Mind expanding experience. As opposed to, as opposed to like what we lose as we age. Because of course we do. Yeah, but what do we gain?

[B]

Yeah, we have none of that. We have none of that because you, you stop.

[A]

Everything is about youth all the time.

[B]

Because young people can make money and buy. Buy stuff. I'm not trying. I know we're smoking a J in our dorm room now, but like, it is, it's like you' not useful if you're not consuming or producing. And that's why I think the, the child, like the pressure to have children. And when you are no menopause being like a thing. And then the later years. So now, okay, you're not working because you might be not physically able or willing or whatever it might be. So you can't, you can't buy stuff and you're not producing babies, which is. There's this unspoken bias. I don't mean to explain that to you. Women are here to help the men make more men or whatever it might be.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Does that sound right?

[A]

Yeah, I think that's an interesting take on it.

[B]

It's just straight from my heart. That's how I feel.

[A]

That's how you.

[B]

I'm 100% JK, but like, where I'm into wisdom and in other cultures, it's just understood that the la. The first part of your life is finding a partner, having a family. Second part is your career. Third part is, is those elder years where you're supposed to cultivate some inner silence, some stillness and some wisdom and share it with people.

[A]

Totally.

[B]

But we have a lot of old children now. We actually don't have a lot of elders because they weren't indoctrinated into that system. But there are some that are just being flat out ignored. And it seems to me that's what you're trying to remedy.

[A]

Yeah, and I'm. And I just, frankly, I just want to, you know, I mean, we have this line that. Sorry, I'm trying to water and hold this bottle cap.

[B]

This is good Foley work.

[A]

There's ice in there.

[B]

That's good for the RNDC. We'll sell this bottle for $50,000.

[A]

Anyway, I can't remember what I was saying.

[B]

It doesn't matter.

[A]

It doesn't really matter.

[B]

Tell me how you feel today, because nobody cares about your podcast. I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding. I'm just kidding. A little touch. A little touch to say jk, but tell me how you're feeling.

[A]

Hey, why don't you just say just kidding?

[B]

I mean, why don't we say automatic teller machine?

[A]

Yeah, that's true.

[B]

I won you over so quickly.

[A]

Yeah, it was very quick.

[B]

That was really. I'm pretty proud of myself. I'm curious just how feeling today because, like, what is your. Your. Your team told me that you were working. Are you in a work mode? Are you in a flow mode? What's your life like currently? Let's.

[A]

It's a total work right now.

[B]

What. What. What is that?

[A]

Well, I mean, it's just. Just a ton of stuff. Just the. The podcast. I have a movie coming out in May, which I'm very excited about. A lot of stuff about that.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know, I mean, it's all very fabulous. And. And one of the things.

[B]

And how does that force into your day to day. How are people nagging you about these things?

[A]

Well, they're not. First of all, let's be clear.

[B]

I heard you say nagging.

[A]

Let's be. No, you said it. Let's be clear. This is all good fortune.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, of course.

[A]

Okay. But, like, right before I walked into your house, I'm sitting in my car listening to premium content for an episode for the Friendly Boy episode. And then I have a photo shoot for. With People magazine for the movie that's coming out. And that's happening. I think tomorrow I have to look at my calendar. So it's one of those things. And then.

[B]

Yeah, you're in one of those times.

[A]

It's one of those times. But these are good times.

[B]

I understand.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Is that. That was part of my. Because I just did your. I'm assuming your friend Jason Alexander, unless you want to give us a TMZ scoop that you can't stand. That. That Pisa.

[A]

I would rather not comment on anything.

[B]

I saw jj. I'm gonna call him jj. I saw. No one calls him that. Nobody yesterday. Because we both did $100,000 pyramid.

[A]

How is my man?

[B]

He's a delight. He's just. He's a grandfather. I know. Isn't that crazy?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Isn't that wild?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And he's just. He just looks like a little boy you just gave a piece of cake. That's how he always looks. And that's how he makes me feel, like I just gave him cake. But speaking of cake, he looks fit and fabulous and he was a delight and he was promoting his podcast. So here's Conan, here's you, here's Jason Alexander doing podcasts. Are you happiest? Let's not get stuck in an interview. We're just chat. We're just two ladies chatting. But are you happiest when you're working? Like, is that your best place? Yeah.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And you don't really like it. What's it like when it slows down?

[A]

Well, it's funny you should say that because Yesterday at around 3:30, everything, all the stuff stopped and I didn't have anything pressing and I had been on like, okay, what's next? What's next? Okay, click on that. I gotta zoom with them. I gotta. And then like 3:30 or 4, it was over.

[B]

Yeah. Power out.

[A]

And it is a little. I don't quite know what to do with myself.

[B]

I know that feeling. Sometimes I walk around the house, I tell Val, my wife, I go, I just sing out loud. I go, she is my life. Like, if I'm. I don't know if that's codependence, but if it is sweet, sometimes I just shuffle around.

[A]

I have to tell you something. I'm not sure your wife likes that. And I don't know her particularly well, but she.

[B]

She loves it.

[A]

She loves it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

That's because she feels the same way.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

We watched. I watched this documentary on YouTube about this guy who lives in like some ice forest. It was horrible. I hated it. It was like a 20 minute YouTube documentary. This guy decided to live in the forest.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And I mean, when you say forest, it's not like the Shire. It's like he lives in the worst place.

[A]

Why?

[B]

I don't know. They didn't really cover that. It's kind of like Thoreau, I guess. Like, he's like, I'm out. I'm going to just eat rabbits and melt snow.

[A]

Thoreau was in a really nice forest.

[B]

I know a beautiful forest.

[A]

Right. And so then what happened?

[B]

Well, this documentary cough grows and hangs out with this guy. And the funniest part, I mean, quite a few parts were funny.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It was just treachery. The whole day is he goes out. He's also, like, 89, and he goes out into the woods and cuts down a tree and, like, has to dry it. And then he just uses that for the day. See, this is a nightmare. And he'll maybe catch one rabbit, drink some snow. He melted. And then the whole nightmare picks up the next day. So he had a little free time. And what he did. Yeah, what he did, Julia, in his free time was he had all these cans, like, old cans, and he just started playing them with his forks. Like, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding. Like, just pure madness. And I said, that's sometimes how I feel if, like, Val is gone for a couple days and I'm just kind of like 8 o' clock rolls around, like. Like, don't know what to do.

[A]

Well, I'll tell you one thing. I did tell me I went to bed really early.

[B]

Yes. What's that?

[A]

I. What's early? For me, I'm. I was in bed last night by, like, 8:00'. Clock.

[B]

That's beautiful.

[A]

It is beautiful. I love my bed so much. It's so cozy.

[B]

I have zero judgment here.

[A]

And I just turn on the television and I watch Jeopardy.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

You cannot beat that life. You cannot beat that life. Now.

[B]

Yes, this is right. But wait a minute.

[A]

Just back to your throw guy in the Ice Force.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

There's a show which you've probably heard of, called Alone. Have you heard of this show?

[B]

No. Katie's nodding.

[A]

Have you seen it, Katie? Okay. Don't you think you should watch it alone? Alone? Yeah, it is a reality. Serious.

[B]

Not naked and Alone.

[A]

No, it's not.

[B]

So this is close.

[A]

No, it's much more high, bro. And. But it's people going out into the wilderness and they just. It's. I don't know how many people. Is it okay, do you think it's like, 10 people to start. And the whole idea is you have to. You. You're given very few tools, like, practically nothing, and you're on your own, and it's whoever is able. And it's just like, what you were describing. It's like they really have to find their food, shoot their food, you know, blah, blah, blah. It is. We got so hooked on it during Real lockdown, during the pandemic.

[B]

Peel off.

[A]

I'm telling you, we watched like three episodes a day. We couldn't get enough of it.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And this guy is basically on that show for no prize or no glory. He's just.

[A]

Yeah. Because the winner gets, I think, a million dollars.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Or maybe $500,000. I can't really remember what.

[B]

I'll tell you one other thing about this documentary. The whole time they're. It's like you can see them seeding a story that his windows suck. His windows let in all the cold. And you can tell this. This crew comes by with all the stuff and you. And they're like. And we decided to give, I don't know his name, a gift. And I'm like, of course they're gonna fix his fucking windows. And they gave him like a mug or something.

[A]

A mug? A mug with the name of the documentary company on it. That's perfect.

[B]

True Line Productions. Like here, now you have a new bass drum. You have a new thing for your little kit.

[A]

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[B]

Let's. Let's shift gears from a documentary nobody cares about.

[A]

Why? I think this is interesting.

[B]

I actually do, too. I'm going to take back that self deprecation. I've been enjoying remembering it and watching you learn about it.

[A]

Thank you.

[B]

And feeling William. But not Charlotte. Charlotte's not interested.

[A]

She's not interested.

[B]

What is it? This is stupid, but will you.

[A]

Yes, it is. I can tell already.

[B]

I know. But I do. I really want to know, as a human, how does it feel to be you? Meaning my dad sees you at the airport. It's a whole thing. How's that going?

[A]

What are you asking me?

[B]

I'm asking people. Coming up and saying Elaine or wanting you to do the dance or like, what's your life like when you're an icon? Not just an icon. That I know. My parents know. People have. I don't have to tell you. My brother used to leave dinner parties at 7 o' clock to watch Seinfeld. Like, if he was at someone else's dinner party, he'd be like, I have to go. And it'd go turn on their tv. So there's this like compulsive cultural obsession with this thing. I asked Jason the same thing. It's. It's like, what does that feel like? Are you just blocking it out, trying to normalize your life? Or is it just kind of like something you've become accustomed to? What do you do when my dad comes up?

[A]

Well, I try to be as polite as possible to your dad.

[B]

Sure.

[A]

And I. The answer is it's. I. I'm used to it. And I try to live as normal life as possible. I mean, I. The answer is I do all of those things. I'm also a very private person, so. But I. I You know, it's. I'm not. It's fantastic. It's great. It's like, who would have thought? Who would have thought? And, I mean, it's an incredibly. It's just. Nothing good that it would have happened.

[B]

And that it would be so warm. Nobody's coming up and saying bad things.

[A]

Yeah, for the most part, I think. I mean, I'm sure somebody has at some point, but I can't.

[B]

I'm reaching.

[A]

Well, anyway. Whatever. No, no, no, no, no, no.

[B]

We just watched you delete a memory. Well, no, it's all been positive. Well, I'm gonna say something. Everyone who listens to this podcast knows I'm gonna say this, but David Letterman said on Charlie Rose, he was like, I like being famous because it turns the world into a small town. And I can relate. I was just in Houston. Te. And people just say, like, I love your comedy. That's nice. But what I'm trying to get at is Seinfeld. I know you've done many, many wonderful things, but specifically, Seinfeld is like this. It's like a dream the whole country had. And there's the lady from my dream, and we feel like we own you. I'm not saying that, but you're in. I heard Seinfeld say, Jerry say, when you're on someone's tv, you're in their living room.

[A]

Sure.

[B]

So there's that. I'm sure it wasn't the first to say it, but you see Bono at the grocery store, you leave Bono alone. You see Jerry, you go up to him, because that's your friend from tv.

[A]

That's right.

[B]

Do you experience that?

[A]

I do. I definitely experience that. And. And. And sometimes it can be a little bit alarming.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

You know, when people really want to. You know, I'm very short, and I know people. You notice that.

[B]

Yeah. Well, I'm very tall.

[A]

Yeah. How tall are you?

[B]

Too tall. No, really, I'm six foot six.

[A]

You are? My son is six five, so I'm used to these tall people, but I am not tall myself. And so people, I think because I'm. Because I'm in the television, and then it turns out I'm small, people often want to hug me and pick you up and pick me up and put me in their pockets.

[B]

Put you back in their televisions. Really? It's like when that little kid said to Mr. Rogers, how did you get out of my TV?

[A]

I know.

[B]

Isn't that the cutest?

[A]

Excuse me. How much do you love Mr. Rogers?

[B]

Um, 10 out of 10.

[A]

I believe 10 out of 10.

[B]

You know who else is there? Nobody. The best you can do is a nine. Nobody's unseating Fred.

[A]

Oh, my God. He is just such a dream. Every time I watch any clip of him now, I just start crying.

[B]

I know, because I feel like it's slipping away. Like what he was grasping at that kindness and that simplicity.

[A]

Who is shepherding that? And that quiet.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

For and for young children.

[B]

I know. Remember when he was like, let's see what a minute feels like. And he played. He had an egg timer set to a minute and he just sat there. And that was on tv. I mean, I tried to get my daughter to watch it, but she. She lit a mattress on fire and flipped it around. She was like this, this will not stop.

[A]

Wait, did you ever do that? You know that thing that's all over the Internet that you could see people doing it all the time where they say that. That the behavioral trick with your kid or kids where you say, okay, here's this piece of chocolate and I'm going to walk out of the room and don't touch it. And then when I come back, I.

[B]

Don'T know why I haven't done.

[A]

You need. How old are your kids?

[B]

She's four.

[A]

You could do it.

[B]

We could do it now. It's a great time. I have a strong feeling this is. Leela is a strong willed child. She's gonna eat that chocolate.

[A]

Well, so that would be so interesting to know.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I don't mean put it up on the Internet.

[B]

No, I know. For us.

[A]

Just for you.

[B]

Just for us.

[A]

And if I were you, I would tape it though. Just you have it for your family.

[B]

Archives and you go, if you don't eat it, I'll give you two.

[A]

You could do that as well.

[B]

But if you do eat it, you only get that one. I think Leila's just like. She's a real. Pull the ripcord. Pull it now. Smoke them if you got them. She's got that vibe. She's got like an old. I can't even call it. I've never met anyone like her. I know. I don't know many four year olds, but I just. Her essence is like, are you. She feels like an interdimensional being who's the first time trying to be like a person. But she's very wise, right? But she's like, for the first time I'm gonna see what this bullshit is. And she showed up and she's kind of like. She gets frustrated. Like, what is this? Like A lot of the time. And I'm like, I know, like how much of life parenting is, is telling your kids. Like, I know this is crazy. Like what we put up with, the uncertainty of it, the irregularity of it, the unfairness of it. But just like going back to the dream thing, it's like we're all having this crazy dream, and you and I as grown people have gotten used to it. You're like, well, there's gravity and there's hunger and there's sleep and sometimes there's completely uncalled for anxiety, just for no reason. And we've gotten used to it. Cause we've done it for so long. But they just showed up here going like, I don't understand. And we're like, I know it's crazy. And you just kind of have to.

[A]

I know. And it's fun to be able. First of all, how much pot did you smoke before this conversation?

[B]

None.

[A]

None. Okay.

[B]

This is a natural high. Sorry, I have to do that to camera. This is a natural high. Thank you. Yes.

[A]

But what's so great about having kids is when they see things for the first time and then you get to see. See it the same way.

[B]

That's right.

[A]

It's so thrilling.

[B]

They're as excited as we should be.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But I think there's a neurological reason for that, is our brains have adapted. Not just our psyches or our personalities have adapted and been like, well, life is sometimes unfair or sometimes you're anxious for no reason, but it's also visually editing out things that aren't important. Isn't that why. And her brain isn't doing that.

[A]

Right.

[B]

So speaking of drugs, that's one of the things that drugs can do. Certain drugs, psychedelics, for example, where will stop that process. And you will see a flower in all of its beauty or whatever. And that's really not helpful. You know what I mean? Like, it's fun, but it's not helpful. That's why your brain goes, don't show them the flower. But when you. And marijuana is a mild psychedelic as well. So when you're stoned, you can see a flower in a different way.

[A]

The. I remember a long time ago, I took one of my sons to the car wash and he'd never been there before. I mean, he was young and so. And so the car was going through and we were watching at the window.

[B]

One of the drive through ones. So fun.

[A]

And he started to cry.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

What are they doing to our car?

[B]

Yeah. What is this? Felt octopus.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

He's not Wrong.

[A]

He's. He was terrified and I was like, oh, my God, this is. But this is. That's an example of what I'm. Yeah, right.

[B]

You're hearing me perfectly.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You and I. What about the dentist? He's gonna chisel your teeth. Or the doctor, he's gonna poke you. Don't worry. It's just to inject you with something that's gonna change your cell, cure a disease, whatever it might do. That's insane. Bags of fluid. The number of things that we're overlooking. It takes a whole day to forget them.

[A]

Yeah. Or an hour.

[B]

Did that just take you to a heavy place? Yes, there were bags. That was it. Bags of fluid.

[A]

Yeah, that was it.

[B]

Well, the first time your kid cuts themselves and blood starts coming out and you're just. Are you queasy? Are you queasing her?

[A]

No, no, no, no. No, I'm not. Are you?

[B]

No, no. Do you want to blood sport?

[A]

No.

[B]

Okay. Just kidding. That maybe we would fight to the death. That's weird that you said no, but the first time she starts putting together what she is. Or that she's a skeleton.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

Weird.

[A]

Weird.

[B]

Or that there's another set of teeth behind her teeth waiting to come out. My daughter's two sets of teeth.

[A]

Or when they get older, you'll see. And they. What do you mean she has two sets of. Oh, because the big. Yeah.

[B]

Let's not even talk about it. It's too fucking weird.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

This is exactly my point.

[A]

When the. They get older and they start to read for pleasure. RFP and. Yeah. Atm. Jk and so. And you know what? That was a cb.

[B]

Senior moment.

[A]

No, cb.

[B]

Yeah, I know, but I thought even the senior moment extended into the acronym.

[A]

No, that meant callback.

[B]

Call back.

[A]

Thank you. So. But anyway, what I was going to say was. He was reading. Oh, God. Yeah. But what was what's. Of Mice and Men. Soft things and. Yeah. And that happens at the end. I won't. I won't spoil or alert it for. You know. But it has very sad. Sad. I feel turn of events. And he came in. I know, I'm kidding. But he came into. He was reading, was probably maybe fourth grade. And he came in and just bawling and I just remember. Yeah. Anyway, I'm just musing on the same thing over and over again.

[B]

We're in a jazz band and you have a trumpet and you're playing beautifully.

[A]

That is exactly correct.

[B]

You're hearing the theme that I established.

[A]

Yes. And I'm improvising.

[B]

I'll hit the ball back with this. I used to go on walks with my mom. Mom walks. I was just. Dad's out. Where's dad? He's working. He's at a ball game with my brother. I'm strolling with the ladies.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And if we saw a squirrel get hit by a car, immediately I'd just start bawling. Just bawling. And my mom knew you'd see it, and you're like, this doesn't look good for the squirrel. I'd pre go into her to be like. Because it's fucking nuts.

[A]

Well, how many squirrels are getting killed in your neighborhood?

[B]

It was a problem.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

There was a guy who seemed to be aiming for.

[A]

Or maybe stupid squirrels. I mean, maybe they're really dumb in your neck of the woods.

[B]

I feel like if it's not in regards to storing acorns, they're dumb as. They're dumb as shit. They're dumb as beans. What's your biggest problem with your husband? What do you get on him the most about.

[A]

What in the living hell did that come from?

[B]

Look, I listened to Conan's podcast. Not to shoot down the big dog, but what a snooze. Let's keep it moving. This guy's going on and on about how great Veep is. Who gives a fuck?

[A]

I'm trying to think, what is it about my husband? Well, first of all, he's. He's incredibly. I'm saying the nice things. He's incredibly intelligent. He is. He can fix any. Okay, I'm going to say this, but we have to touch wood because I don't want to jinx it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

That's so good at fixing all computer technological things. Like. It's unbelievable.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

He has a great sense of humor. He's very generous. He's very kind.

[B]

I met him at the thing.

[A]

You met him at the tall, too. There's very tall in this game. Although my mom's side of the family. Also very tall. I just got the shrimp gene, but whatever.

[B]

Sounds delicious.

[A]

He's. Yeah. And he's maybe a little bit forgetful.

[B]

He's a forgetter.

[A]

A little bit. He has. He has something that actually my son has too. A sort of. It's called. I think it's called object impermanence.

[B]

Uhhuh. Like peekaboo. He'd be fooled by peekaboo. I mean, that's what object impermanence is.

[A]

It is, yeah.

[B]

If I disappear behind this, I no longer exist. That's what object impermanence.

[A]

Oh, I see. Well, okay, well, Maybe that's one version of it, but in his case, and also in my son's case, it's very hard for them to keep hold of things, if that makes sense. He comes in, he'll put his. The keys down, and then that's just like a literal.

[B]

In the material, in the three dimensions. Their objects are impermanent. Yeah. Yeah, I understand.

[A]

So it's not really that big of a complaint. What. What complaint do you have about your wife?

[B]

Yeah, I would never. What if I just don't answer?

[A]

I would never have a complaint.

[B]

What, sell them out for a podcast.

[A]

Like I just did.

[B]

Jk. Of course. Val. It's hard to know what Val really thinks, and I would say that she's going to listen to this. It's. And I. I love that about her. If Val doesn't like something, I sometimes have to, like, interpret, like, I'll say, do you want to go to this thing? And she'll be like, yeah. And I'm like, that's a no. That's a hard no.

[A]

Oh. I say, well, that's the. Excuse me. Those are relationship dynamics.

[B]

Rds. What do you mean? Like, how does that FS friendship for. Tell me more. For sure. You. You mean that's normal for a relationship?

[A]

I think to a certain extent.

[B]

Here's another example. Yesterday, we're dropping Leela off at school. I know. Val has to pee. We were coming back from LA to get Leela at school. She's talking about how she has to pee. I have to pee. I'm going to explode. I have to pee. We pull into the parking lot. We get out. There's one of the kids, moms. I blow right past him. I'm gonna go get my daughter. Hi. Nice to see you. Val starts talking to them. I almost was like, I know, like her lawyer or her Secret Service. I should go. She has to pee. She has to pee right now. I go and get Leela. I sign her out. I come back, she's still talking. I yell, val, go pee. That's. That's one of the things that I'm like. It's not, like, a big problem for me, but I'm like. She would admit she needs to get better at going, like, pee. I need to pee. You know what I mean?

[A]

And was she happy that you said that?

[B]

Yeah, I think so. I think we help each other out. We have a good. I called our relationship yesterday the perfect Arnold Palmer.

[A]

Oh, nice.

[B]

I think we got a really good blend.

[A]

Oh, I like that.

[B]

You seem to have a good blend with Your partner.

[A]

I do.

[B]

How does he deal with the cause? Val, I don't want to say she coddles me, but she knows that this business has ups, downs, has the three 30s, where everything shuts off. Does he do well with. Is he a steady Eddie, or is.

[A]

He also, like, total steady Eddie? Always has been. Always has been. Just because he's an intellectual gu. Guy has a lot of interests. He's. He's just. I mean, I. I like to be with him, you know, I like to be with him. It's nice.

[B]

Key to a successful relationship.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I just like being with them.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And you probably. I'm putting words in your mouth, but tell me if you agree.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

You feel more yourself with him there. Like, there's not a. You're not putting on a show. You can go now. Just Julia.

[A]

Yeah. And you know what else, too? Like, I've had. Occasionally, I've been away and I've been on location shooting something, and he hasn't been able to be with me. And after a period of time, it's a. It's. It's hard to. For me, anyway. I mean, we've been married a long time. We've been together a long time. To be by myself past a certain amount of time.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Yeah. It's like I'm. Exactly. And I might get some of those cans because I have to go to it away in a couple. Couple months, and I have to be gone for a while, and I think I'm going to get some cans and sticks.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Look, feel free to dodge. I think it's a beautiful question. It's sort of a classic question, but I know I got into show business because I like the way I feel when I'm being engaged with, like, I like being heard, and I like hearing people. And I grew up in a house where I was sort of like, does anyone hear anyone? Like, there was like, that's the classic part. Are you in touch with what. And it doesn't have to be bad, but, like, what drove you? Because it is. There's sort of a compulsive quality to wanting to perform, to wanting to make other people laugh. And I know that's a classic, you know, shrink thing, but I'm interested in if you're in touch with that.

[A]

Well, I like. I think that it is the pretend of it all. The pretend. Pretending to be a character and really getting just like, down and dirty with it and really rolling around in a role is good for my psyche. And maybe because it's. I think it was Sort of a savior to me as a child. And it was almost in a weird way, centering and so. And that's. And I just feel very comfortable being challenged by the experience of pretending to take on a character.

[B]

Is it like a bubble experience? Yeah, yeah. So you. The outside world falls off. Falls off, yeah. And of course that's very comforting. Again, feel free to dodge. But what was it? What does it feel like when you're not in that bubble? I'm a highly sensitive person. I get freaked out. I like doing standup comedy. But if you think about it, standup is an incredibly controlled circumstance. Just like being on set, the lights are in certain places, your. Your mark is in a certain place, your clothes, it's a control freak's dream. Whereas I think other people look at and they go like, how can you go out and perform? And aren't you nervous?

[A]

Yeah, but what you. But stand up. But stand up is really different, don't you think? I mean, I think I mean. And I don't mean different in a bad or a good way. I just mean it's a different beast. I think it is.

[B]

But what I'm. The. There's a bubble quality to it. Some people might go, oh, the tension that there's these people looking at you. And I'm. I'm more thinking about the bubble that's created where I'm like, everything goes away. Like you're saying you, you roll around with it. I'm playing the role of a stand up comedian, but I'm completely lost for that hour. And you come back and you might as well have been. There was efforting for sure, but it feels like you took a week long nap or something.

[A]

Right, Right.

[B]

And so I'm wondering, are you.

[A]

I think those are the dopamines or.

[B]

Whatever it is for sure. Absolutely. There's a lot of reward chemicals happening. I always say this, but the guy, the free solo guy that climbed the mountain, I'm like, these guys are trying to shut off their minds. You know what I mean? It's not just, I love being low and then I love getting high. Very slowly they want to shut off their brains. So is the world an overwhelming place to.

[A]

You can be sure, yeah. How. How could it not be, really?

[B]

I don't know. I see a lot of people at dinner parties just having a fun time. You put me in a dinner party, I'm not enjoying it. I don't like.

[A]

You're not a dinner, you're not a dinner party person. What happens?

[B]

I just, I'm Quietly envious that people are just kind of like, okay with how loud it is. That's one. How is everyone okay with how loud it is? Why am I yelling? North Dakota. North Dakota. Like, how was your show? How am I gonna fucking tell you? Appetizers are getting dropped. I don't like it. I like this. The thing that I like about Pete is Pete looks out for Pete. And Pete figured out that Pete likes one on one conversation, so Pete made a podcast. It's beautiful.

[A]

I.

[B]

This is work and press or whatever, but I like this kind of conversation. We can really hear each other and I can lock on to you.

[A]

Okay, but wait a minute. So do you ever have, like, a couple come to your house and have dinner? Do you ever do that?

[B]

I'll do that.

[A]

That's more calm.

[B]

Do it. In fact, I'll do a dinner party at my house. I just don't want to do it in, like, a loud restaurant with. But you're not. That way you can enjoy a party. Hey, we're going to the WME Emmy party. Are you going to have fun?

[A]

Absolutely. And I'm not going. Absolutely not. And I'm not going.

[B]

Tell me why.

[A]

I don't. It's too. It's. It's. It's too business. Y. It's too phony. Yeah, of course. I mean, I understand people have to go to those things and, you know, rub elbows and all the rest of it, but I would prefer to skip it.

[B]

Okay. We're going to a party of my friend. We're good friends in this scenario.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And I'm going to a party, but you're not going to know anybody. Just kind of like a regular party. Are you going to enjoy that?

[A]

But I don't know. What does regular party mean anything?

[B]

Like, picture a party in a. In a movie. You know, there's a punch bowl.

[A]

No, I'm not going to that party.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Yeah, I'm not.

[B]

And tell me why. What are the feelings that make that.

[A]

It's just I'm kind of. I'm already sort of feeling tired.

[B]

And what is the tired. Protecting.

[A]

It's a lot of work to go to a party like that, I think, you know, and it's exhausting and it's a little tiring. Yeah, it's a little tired. I. I prefer. Again, I mean, it's not like I don't go to those kind of parties, but I prefer a gathering of a smaller gathering of people that you know, so that you can actually have a proper conversation. Although I will say this I do like to play games.

[B]

Games are great.

[A]

Games are great.

[B]

Because isn't shooting a movie a game?

[A]

Totally. It's the same thing.

[B]

It's a structure.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

That's why I love being on set, too. It's like we're all pointed in the same direction.

[A]

Yes. We're all on this team.

[B]

We're all on this team. Yeah, that's right.

[A]

Totally.

[B]

And if. And if we like each other, it bleeds through.

[A]

That's right.

[B]

Speaking of, did you and James Gandolfini love each other? Because when I watched that movie.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

I'm like, there's. Because I heard a rumor that if actors hate each other, I heard Scarlett Johansson and Bill Murray didn't like each other, but that reads as love in Lost in Translation.

[A]

Really?

[B]

And you guys, we just watched it for pleasure. I was like, julia's doing it this week. We just threw it on because we love it. Please tell me that it was as much of a joy as it seemed to be.

[A]

It really was. And that's really what he was like.

[B]

I believe it.

[A]

He was very much a dear, kind of tender guy with a lot of insecurity.

[B]

Interesting.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And quiet, like, kind of soft spoken.

[A]

Yeah. And a little bit he could be a little combative, like with material.

[B]

You mean creatively combative?

[A]

Yeah. I don't mean he was misbehaved, but I do mean he was resistant.

[B]

That's the word term that he was misbehaved.

[A]

No, no, no. But he was resistant to. Sometimes to direction that Nicole Holof center wrote and directed that movie. And sometimes he would be resistant to trying her suggestion directorially or a particular line change or whatever.

[B]

And that sensitivity, too. Right? That's. That's.

[A]

Yeah, I think. I think so. And it came from a. I think it did come from a place of insecurity. And I would just badger him into it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But I really was fond of him.

[B]

I. I love Treasure, especially since we've lost him. Watching it is like this time capsule of. And I. I'm just glad I have the chills that you confirmed. I'm like, I feel like this is.

[A]

Yeah. And as a matter of fact, when I. I was at the Emmys and this is after he had passed, and Edie Falco came up to me and she was like, I'm so glad you made that movie, because that's really who he was. And I said, I know, I know. It was nice. It was nice for her to say that.

[B]

That's the perfect. That's like a bronzeable compliment.

[A]

Yeah, it really was.

[B]

It is. It's a gift. Yeah, it's so great. And that chemistry, which is kind of hard to do in general when you're trying to make chemistry with somebody. Is that efforting, or do you just hope it works on the day? Do you, like, hang out beforehand?

[A]

We did a little hangout. We did rehearsing and stuff like that. But you know how you can sort of. You get a sense of somebody pretty quickly as to whether or not. Yeah, that's right. And, yeah, I. I knew it would work with him.

[B]

That's so fun.

[A]

Yeah, he's a really nice guy.

[B]

Glad I thought to ask that.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I. Okay. This is another very specific question.

[A]

All right.

[B]

I was doing a guest spot on a multicam recently, and I was like, I'm gonna do a voice. I'm just. I feel like this guy's. I know. I'm gonna try a voice. I'm just gonna give it a little. Because I talk very fast. I'm high processing. Right. So I talk fast. And that's an indication of a character. It's a character trait that somebody talks fast.

[A]

Yeah, totally.

[B]

This guy's dumb. He doesn't talk fast. So I was like, how do I sound when I talk slow? And I kind of am playing with it. It starts getting a little Keanu. Just a little Keanu is creeping in.

[A]

Can I hear it?

[B]

It's probably like. Hi, what's. Hey. Hey, Julia. Subtle.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

But still. Still a swing.

[A]

Okay. I'm not sure it's subtle. I'm not sure it's subtle.

[B]

I Krasinski to the camera and feelings hurt. No, no, no, no.

[A]

Hey, but wait a minute. I have based a career. I'm not subtle. So don't take it as. I'm not knocking you in any way.

[B]

Julia, I've never felt closer to you than when you said. I don't know if it was subtle. Kind of like when I said, no one cares about your podcast and you LA for both of us, and we loved it. What I'm saying is you live in that tension. And, oh, to finish the story, Betsy, the director. I do take one. Take two, even. And I'm doing it.

[A]

And she comes over and she just.

[B]

Goes, she's a pal of mine. And she just goes like, it's getting a little Bill and Ted's. That's what she said. And I just dropped it. I wonder how many. Your job is to take risks.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And it's fucking embarrassing. And it's difficult. And does that bring anything to mind? A Time when you made a move that you weren't sure about, like, is it going to play? Did someone ever have to correct you? Course correct you to protect you from doing something that was dumb.

[A]

Oh, I'm certain of it. I have. I'm trying to remember. I wish I could give you an actual story here, but all I was ever doing was trying weird, bizarre things with the hope, of course, that they would land. But, you know, a course correction.

[B]

I'll take you off the hook for an anecdote. It's more like you relate to the feeling of, like, do you get a little nervous? You're like, I'm gonna do this thing, and the writers are here. What if it's the wrong play?

[A]

Oh, my God, yeah.

[B]

Cause you seem so forged in steel. I'll give you a specific.

[A]

No, no, I'm not.

[B]

I love it.

[A]

I'm definitely not. I'm definitely not.

[B]

I don't think people know that.

[A]

I mean, I have a lot of experience now under my belt, so there's certain things I do sort of have a sense of. But when you're trying, you know, new shit out there.

[B]

Yeah. It can be a little Bill intense.

[A]

Ooh.

[B]

I just put us in the same category.

[A]

But it can't be.

[B]

We're the same.

[A]

No, it can't be.

[B]

Yeah, no, I can. What. What I think is funny is if you go back 21 years old, SNL, youngest female or just youngest all time?

[A]

I'm not sure. I think I heard youngest. Oh, no, not youngest of all time, because I think Eddie Murphy was in utero. No, I can't remember the guy's name. But anyway, the guy who was dating.

[B]

All those girls, Pete Davidson.

[A]

Yeah. I think he's the youngest.

[B]

The guy who is dating all those girls. I love that.

[A]

Can you cut that out?

[B]

You cannot. I forbid. What's wrong with the guy that was dating all those girls. That is the best. Neil Brennan. Somebody asked Neil Brennan. They were like, are comedians in trouble? And they're like, colin Jost is dating Scarlett Johansson. Pete Davidson's dating Kim Kardashian. I think they're doing fine. Like, can we stop acting like they're an endangered species? But, yes, we'll take it out if.

[A]

You want, and whatever. Anyway, I don't know.

[B]

Here's my question. Yes, you're 21 years old. I watched you on SNL, just to, you know, remember. And what I really. What's up?

[A]

I just already. That you're just watching it. I just am dying on the inside. But really carry no no, Carry on.

[B]

Here it comes. You're gonna love it.

[A]

No, no, you're.

[B]

I think you're gonna like the area.

[A]

Well, let's go. Go.

[B]

I was struck that your voice, literally, your voice, the way that you talk on Veep now as I'm talking to you, which is a very funny way of talking. You know what I mean by that? I don't mean it's like a joke. I mean, like, there's a musicality to it. It's engaging, it's interesting, and it's unique, just like your heroes, Lucille Ball, just to make it less exotic. I am also speaking in my comedic affectation, which is based on research. This is how you get people to listen to you. You have to modulate. You have to change. But you have a very. I know I sound like Tony Robbins, but you. 21. I'm. I'm like, surely she had a lot to learn. But there you were. I. I saw the Julia that's here today, even at that age.

[A]

Really?

[B]

I did. I. Meaning anyone listening to it would go, that's. That's Julia Louis Dreyfus, even if they didn't know you were on SNL. And there you are, 21. Tell me a little bit about where are you putting that together and where are you trying it out? I know you have your heroes, but where were you building that voice before you got snl?

[A]

I was never. I don't even. I never thought about a voice.

[B]

I just mean your artistic voice. Not literally. I know. He's talking about literally your voice.

[A]

Oh. I mean, are you kidding me? I was doing it from the. From the earliest age possible.

[B]

I mean, for your friends and family.

[A]

Totally. I had a. I had a. We did shows in the basement. We charged my parents to come down to watch, and they were excellent productions, by the way. Yeah.

[B]

What are these shows?

[A]

I had a theater troupe. We called ourselves the University Players. This was with my neighbors. Yeah.

[B]

Oh, you cast a wide net for the talent.

[A]

Totally. It was a massive casting call. And we had. And also I had a modern dance troupe called Julia and the Umbrella People. And we.

[B]

I mean, why Umbrella People?

[A]

I don't know. I thought it sounded pretty groovy.

[B]

I mean.

[A]

And you know, it does.

[B]

You're very close to, like, what they would call something off Broadway. You know what I mean? Like, you nailed it.

[A]

Yeah. Thank you.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And so the. But the. Our. Our big claim to fame was a production of Sorry, Wrong Number, which was a. Yeah, right. Which is sort of a thriller.

[B]

Did you get From My Face that you Said, yeah, right.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Only delight.

[A]

Okay, well, anyway, sorry, Wrong number.

[B]

Did you write this?

[A]

No, no, it was. Sorry. Wrong Number was a play. And actually. And also a film that was from the mid. Early 1950s, I believe. And our team over here is going to be Googling that for us as we. As I'm talking to you. And they'll get back to us shortly with the correct information. And I played Mrs. Stevenson, who was the lead, who is trying. Someone's breaking into her apartment. She's an invalid, and she is trying to get help. And so that was the play that we did.

[B]

That's heavy material for children.

[A]

No kidding. It's super heavy. But I had five and six year olds in it. I swear to you, I did. I did. And they were fucking their lines up, and it really pissed me off.

[B]

You were into it?

[A]

Oh, yeah. Can I. I mean, for real. I remember this one kid, he didn't say the line right. And I was like, God damn it.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

And he was 5.

[B]

Oh, my God. And that boy grew up.

[A]

He's actually quite fine.

[B]

I relate so hard. Do we have the year?

[A]

No.

[B]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[A]

The movie was 1948. 48. So it's the 40s.

[B]

Let my employee look it up for you. It's okay. Whatever meme you're sharing.

[A]

No, they're. They're going to Barbara Strum face cream, which is what I need. At least. They better be.

[B]

Yes. That's just a reminder that she wants the light. Is it the light classic. Which is another word for light, I believe.

[A]

No.

[B]

Okay. Felt like that could have been delivered with less attitude. Can we do another take on that?

[A]

That's the only one I got.

[B]

I relate so hard. I made little VHS camcorder movies and took them very seriously. We made a movie called the Kerminator, which was Kermit the Frog in a Terminator 2 jacket. Because Terminator 2 was out.

[A]

Perfect.

[B]

And my friend Earn, I still make fun of him for it. His name's Aaron. We call him Earn. One of the lines was. Let's just say I watch a lot of MacGyver. And I didn't know the term, but I wanted him to throw it away. Motherfucker does it to the camera, ruins the joke. He goes, let's just say I watch a lot of MacGyver. I'm like that. But we didn't do takes. It was it. We had it. You couldn't go back. Like, I guess you could.

[A]

You could have, but you didn't think to do it. Yes.

[B]

And I Was livid. I was like, you just ruined it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I was like, that would have played if you hadn't done it. The absolute worst way to do it.

[A]

Let me tell you something. All this play business, it's serious. It's a serious business.

[B]

It's a serious business.

[A]

It is.

[B]

And it mattered.

[A]

It mattered.

[B]

Like laughs mattered and acting mattered. Drama mattered.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

I'm surprised that it wasn't a comedy, though. When did it, when did your, when did you hone in that? You were like. I think it's more the hahas.

[A]

I gotta tell you something. It. It was just sort of the jobs I got because I did dramatic stuff. Like when I was in college, I did Threepenny Opera and Joe Egg. I remember I did that play. These are all the dramas. And. But then when I got hired professionally, seemed to always be in comedy, so it wasn't like I was gunning for comedy stuff, you know.

[B]

Interesting. We won't dwell on Seinfeld because I don't want to dwell on the obvious, but here's. That's. Other than snl, that's your most regular long running comedy thing. Were you like trying to pick up tricks and techniques or was it just kind of like this is, this is a character, this is a scene? You know, were you trying to be bright and tight, like certain words?

[A]

I don't know what you mean. I don't understand the question. I'm not kidding.

[B]

Were you looking at it like just another job or were you like, let me really learn about comedy now. Let me study the techniques and the moves and the tricks really, of the great so that I can like hack my way into a better comedic performance.

[A]

Oh, I think I was studying without realizing I was studying. I mean, because I grew up watching, you know, Lucy and, and all in the Family. And that was an, you know, and, and Mary and, And films. I mean, I was. All I was about was watching these things. So that when I think in addition to just the experience of being an actor, by the time I got to set, it was like that was just sort of baked in all that stuff, you know, it doesn't mean I knew it all, but.

[B]

But it was in there.

[A]

Oh, yeah. And it was really about. Not so much. Oh. And I'd also done a lot of improvisational work when I was in Chicago. That was. That's a huge skill set to bring to any work, scripted work. I did Second City, I did Practical Theater Company in Chicago. And so that. That's just like a major, major skill set to bring to work. To any work as a character, drama or comedy. By the way. Yeah.

[B]

You were in a main stage review at Second City.

[A]

No, I wasn't. I was in the touring company.

[B]

Oh, the Torco?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Oh, wow.

[A]

Yeah. Were you?

[B]

No, I, I was summarily rejected.

[A]

That's all right.

[B]

It's okay.

[A]

It wasn't that much fun for me actually. I didn't love it. I loved working with another theater company called Practical Theater Company, which was my husband's theater company back then. And we had, we shows that were, which were a ton of fun and successful too.

[B]

A better fit. Yeah. I didn't know what I was getting into. Like, had I booked it. I was new. This is weird. I was, I got married when I was 22 and our honeymoon was driving to Chicago. That's how obsessed I was with comedy. I was like, I'm gonna audition for Second City.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I didn't get it, but had I gotten it? It's, I'm not saying you need to be single, but it helps if you're gonna like tour around and like leave or what If I had gotten the improv Olympic that they do in Amsterdam, you know what I mean? It's just like, I guess we're going to live in Amsterdam for three months. The weird 22 year old with a wife, like, it just didn't, I didn't understand how much being a free agent, being a young person that could kind of move anywhere would have been an asset.

[A]

Right.

[B]

I was trying to be a little husband.

[A]

Got it.

[B]

Which was super weird. So you got in. Did. Is that what you didn't love about it was all the travel, I'm assuming?

[A]

Oh, it wasn't, it wasn't well run and we were, we were doing other people's material and everybody was insanely high and there were a lot of drugs and it was a lot of people with. There was a lot of bitterness and in fighting and competition. It was not my cup of tea. I, I, I much preferred where I'd come from and then where I ultimately, you know, went to. I mean, and that's what when, by the time I started working on Seinfeld, the beauty of it was that it was a proper ensemble and everybod very much just trying to work together to elevate what was phenomenal material but enhance it even further. And it was teamwork and that was just sublime.

[B]

Of course, I shot something last year on Stage nine at Radford.

[A]

Oh, you did?

[B]

And the dp Wayne was your dp.

[A]

Oh, really? Wayne was there. Wow.

[B]

I Would ask him a lot of Seinfeld questions. I won't ask you, but one thing that stood out was that you guys didn't improvise, which I didn't do. Alts, even. I mean, like, I thought.

[A]

Right.

[B]

It was like kind of 1, 2, 3. That's what he said.

[A]

Well, I mean, we would play around during rehearsal and things would happen that would. If they worked, they would get folded into the script. But it wasn't improvising like we did on Veep, which was a lot. But again, we had a script on Veep, but a lot of improvising that was sort of folded back into the. The stew of the material.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But on that show, you know. But I mean, these evenings would go late, the shooting. I can't fucking remember what we were. Why it would go so late. I guess because sometimes, maybe sometimes scenes weren't quite working and then there would be rewriting there on the fly.

[B]

The sea was angry. That Day, My Friends, was written like 20 minutes before.

[A]

Right.

[B]

And I remember that. That story that. Did that ever happen? Did you ever have to learn something very, very quickly?

[A]

Oh, yeah, I'm sure. But I can't remember a detail like that. That was an amazing moment.

[B]

Yeah. No, I didn't know anyone could learn a monologue that quickly from the story. Apparently you just read it through a couple times and just.

[A]

Well, so. Well, it helps when something's really well written, which that was. And if it's very well written, sometimes it's pretty easy to memorize.

[B]

That's right. The lines are sort of linked, very clear together.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

The other sort of synchronicity. So Jason was on Pyramid yesterday, and so was Rosie o', Donnell, who I didn't know also auditioned for Elaine. I just kind of thought that was an interesting synchronicity. Yeah.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Isn't that wild?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Would you tell me about the audition process? Do you remember. I mean.

[A]

Yeah. It was not really an audition because what happened was. I mean, it was and it wasn't. I had been on snl, and I was on it for three years, and in my third year, Larry David was on it, and he. Yeah. And Lair and I became friends because we were really both pretty unhappy at snl, and he wasn't getting his material on and they weren't using me, and I was, you know, it was. It was a relatively miserable experience. And we sort of shared that, you know.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Together.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Anyway, so then.

[B]

Which, by the way, can I just say, the chances. It doesn't even seem to have everything to do with talent. Meaning can you be talented in this environment, in this kind of structure, in this kind of like. It's like a machine that some people gel with and some people don't. So it doesn't surprise me that you guys were like feeling like outcasts.

[A]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. And anyway, and so then he went off. I, you know, we really weren't in touch for a couple years. I did a few. What was I do? Oh, yeah, I did it. I did a series or whatever in la. In la. Can moved here and did that. And then all of a sudden I picked up. It was, it was like. It had two. It was with Gary Goldberg's company. It was called Day by Day. I did that for two years. I believe we did it. Anyway, whatever. And so was it. I'm sorry, it was a sitcom. It was a sitcom about a daycare center and I was the snarky neighbor.

[B]

Yeah, so you were kind of in the system. You were in.

[A]

I was a little bit. I was in the system. That's right. And actually had a lot of fun doing that show. And so anyway, and then that show ended and then my agent called and said, Larry David's written these scripts and you know, they'd love for you to give, read, blah, blah, four scripts. They'd already shot the pilot. I wasn't in the pilot.

[B]

Yeah, I remember.

[A]

And so.

[B]

And Kramer as a dog and his Kessler.

[A]

And so I read those four scripts and I was blown away by the material. But I didn't have a lot to do in two of the four scripts. But the material was so, like fucking weird and out there and so unlike anything that was on television at the time. That. And of course I knew Lar. So I went in to see Larry and Jer was there and I kind of recognized Jerry because he was doing. He was a standup. Like he had done Carson and stuff. But I, I, you know, I don't know the stand. I didn't know the stand up world at all. But, you know, anyway, we just hung out. He was eating cereal. We were just hanging out. And then.

[B]

Sorry, Jerry, it sounds like you're making it up now. No, but I swear to you, Larry's complaining.

[A]

Right? But I mean, it did have that vibe. It was like a.

[B]

They were being who they are.

[A]

They were being who they are. It wasn't like, you know, executives that you're going in front of. La, la, la, la.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And so then Jerry and I went into an office and we read the first scene of the. I don't know what. I can't remember what episode it is. Maybe it's a stakeout. I don't know. Anyway, we sat on the couch and read this scene then. And we were joking around and laughing, and that was the end of it. And so then I. Then I left the offices and Larry came running out and he said, what do you think? Do you want to do it? And I said, yeah, but I was actually.

[B]

Wait, they didn't let you leave?

[A]

They didn't what?

[B]

They didn't let you leave. You're trying to leave? And he runs.

[A]

No, no, no. I was walking down the sidewalk. He came out. Yeah. And he said, what do you think? And I said, I hope we can make it work. I actually had another. It was a long story.

[B]

But anyway, Sidewalk offer.

[A]

It wasn't even an offer. It was just like. I mean, it felt like a. I don't know how to say this. I know it has this. All this import the show and everything. But then it was just like a friend of mine was doing a show. You understand what I'm saying?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And so he was. And I was like, yeah, I mean, I really like it. It's really fun. Let's. You know. Anyway, they made a deal over the weekend. We shot the following week.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

Yeah. I mean, I had to make the deal lickety split because they were on and I didn't have to go test that. You know, they do these test deals in show business, and I didn't have to do that because NBC already knew me from SNL and from this, from.

[B]

Day by Day, which helped.

[A]

It did help, actually.

[B]

You and Jerry must have had chemistry. I mean, you must have been laughing.

[A]

Yes, we did. Oh, yeah. We were howling. Laughing. Yeah.

[B]

Really?

[A]

Yeah. And the director, Tom Charonis, was in that room, so he was sort of watching us do the scene together. It was fun. It was the scene in which he says, you want to go out to eat? And I say. And he. And I say, sure. And he says, where do you want to go? And I say, I don't care. I'm not hungry. It was that scene.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But even that line that I don't care, I'm not hungry was like, huh? Is that a joke or not? It was like. It's just weird. And it was. I really. I cotton to that.

[B]

I cotton to that.

[A]

Yeah, I like it.

[B]

I love. I just. I'm admiring your eloquence.

[A]

I'm surprised I just used that as a verb.

[B]

Were you making each other laugh in the scene, or was it an off Page chemistry or both?

[A]

I think it was both.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I'd be curious to ask Jerry what his memory is of that.

[B]

Yeah, that's very fun. But at the time, obviously nobody. It's just a show. It's just your friends. It's a small pickup. It's a six episode four, My friend. Season was four.

[A]

Four. It was like, this show's going nowhere.

[B]

It's going nowhere. It's a replacement. It's a mid season. Yeah, kind of.

[A]

They snuck it in through late night programming, I'm telling you.

[B]

And never would have.

[A]

And I thought after we made those four, I thought, oh, my God, this show's so good. They're too stupid to pick it up because I thought it's just so unusual. They'll never ever pick it up.

[B]

And I think it only got picked up on like a flute, kind of like they didn't have anything else.

[A]

They picked it up as a mid season, right?

[B]

Oh, you mean after the four.

[A]

Yeah, then we did 13 episodes.

[B]

Okay, so you had a time off of an uncertainty.

[A]

Yeah, I don't really remember it very well.

[B]

Neither do I. And I really. It's on me to have done that research. So I'm embarrassed.

[A]

Oh, well. But it's on me. It's my life. I can't fucking remember it.

[B]

All I know is Seinfeld has been used as the example of no one gives shows a chance anymore. And everyone always says Seinfeld would have been canceled based on numbers. After the first four. After the first season.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

That it wasn't a hit. But somebody sort of unheard of in the biz now went on their gut. They were just sort of like, I don't know, I like it. You know what I mean? Just doesn't. Doesn't seem to happen anymore. This is why we're seeing reboots. You know, they're gonna do. Everything's going to be reimagined and resold because they just want. What is it called? Engagement. They don't want an ensemble that has chemistry. They want something that go like, we have the numbers. People like Tetris. Make a movie about Tetris. I actually enjoyed that movie. I'm just saying that's kind of how things seem to be getting made these days.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Just a shame.

[A]

It is a shame. On the other hand, there are all these opportunities to make material in so many different. I mean. Yes, right. So there's that.

[B]

You could make the pilot of Seinfeld with iPhones now. You know what I mean? Yeah, yeah.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Which is. We Take it for granted, but you have. I mean, you could edit it in your phone and, and get it at a similar quality as a pilot in the 90s.

[A]

Yeah. It's just a question of somehow breaking through the noise.

[B]

When did it start to feel clear that it was a hit for you? Is there a moment when you were like, I think we're onto something?

[A]

Well, I'll tell you the. I mean, it sort of slowly, it sort of slowly crept up on us. But I will say also, by the way, I had both of my children during this time, so my focus was majorly split. It really was. You know, and I had these, and I brought the babies to work with me and I had a nursery set up. And so my, I had a foot in both worlds very firmly planted.

[B]

Was that helpful? Because here's a kind of a skyrockety.

[A]

Yeah, I think in retrospect, it was, I think it was, it was a grand reminder of the significance of, of the priorities of life.

[B]

That's right. Don't believe this. I mean, isn't that a risk? I, I've, I've heard your perspective on work, and I think it's beautiful. It's just what I do. Get over. It's okay. It's a privilege, it's a joy. But let's not take ourselves too seriously.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Would you.

[A]

I mean, is that how I feel? I do. Yes.

[B]

Wouldn't you? I mean, I, I see it eating at people. You mentioned substance abuse. I mean, like, there's a lot of, like, the only good feeling is being at the top and anything else is, is death. So we're gonna bang out the best and keep delivering. And then if, and in the between times, we're gonna do cocaine. Like, I think those things are related. It's intolerable. So having children, I can say for me was like this beautiful wake up call to go. Like, oh, I've been under a spell.

[A]

I see there. Oh, that's the meaning of life.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Got it right.

[B]

Because they don't have any, they don't have any of that. We've learned that being sparkly and special and, and shiny and funny, these are, these are valuable things.

[A]

I remember when we were doing the final, very final episode of Seinfeld and they had to, they had to put. What are those things called? Like, big walls up on the, on Bradford at the gates of the studio, because there were, there were paparazzi and all sorts of people trying to get, with a long lens, pictures and video of who was coming onto the soundstage, who was going to be in the final episode. And I remember being shocked by that.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

I was like, seriously, does anybody really give that much of a shit? And I will.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So much better than you being like, of course. Dressed like Carmen Sandiego. Of course this is normal.

[A]

No, no, no. I mean, I was. I. I do remember thinking. And then one time we were. One time we were in New York. This is me and Jerry and Jason and Michael. We were all there. And because we had to shoot that Rolling Stone, we did a cover of Rolling Stone in which we were dressed like rock stars or whatever. And so then we thought after the shoot, we'd all go out to dinner and we'd go and we would sit on the. Sit on the sidewalk. They had outdoor seating at this one place on St. Paul on Columbus. And thought, we're gonna blow everybody's mind. Four of us all together. It's gonna be crazy. Not one fucking person said anything or stopped. Except a homeless man, God love him, who was completely out of his mind and was just babbling about something. It was a very nice reality check. I remember it vividly.

[B]

It's important, though. I mean, you see people go off the reservation. I don't know if we're still saying that, but, like, going out of their minds a little bit.

[A]

Going out of their minds, yeah.

[B]

And it's good to stay balanced and the family. And your husband is in show business. Yes, yes. But not in front of the camera, is that correct?

[A]

Yeah. Although he's been in front of the camera recently. He's been in a couple things. He was in. What is the. American Auto. American Otto with auto.

[B]

American Idol.

[A]

No, no, no. American Auto with Anna Gosteyer. And he's in a movie and stuff coming out, so he does a little.

[B]

Bit of everything, but staying balanced. It's not a cuckoo bananas household. That's really nice.

[A]

No.

[B]

I wonder, is there any spiritual life to speak of? Let me preface it with this.

[A]

We're going to church.

[B]

Afterwards, we're gonna pray.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Who's your God? Real quick, who's your God? The guy that's gonna pray. Who do you worship? Elohim.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I was at an Eckhart Tolle retreat in Rhinebeck, New York. Have you been to Rhinebeck?

[A]

No.

[B]

Beautiful.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

I just feel like you're a classy lady. You're gonna love Rhinebeck, New York.

[A]

All right. Get me a real estate agent right now. I'm buying property.

[B]

If you go to Rhinebeck, I'll make a wager you're going to Buy property. You're going to find a way to. It's. It's the most quaint off the Metro north little town, but classy. Some of the best restaurants in the world.

[A]

How long's the train ride out of the city?

[B]

I think it's about 90.

[A]

It's about 90 minutes.

[B]

Maybe two. Maybe two hours. It's not Woodstock.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

You know what I mean?

[A]

Yeah. Pull it up on Zillow right now.

[B]

It's gorgeous. You'll feel like Mary Oliver. You'll write around. We walk around and write poems. When Val and I were there.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

We can't go there. It's not in our. In our means. And we were like, we're living here. You'll be a poet and I'll open a restaurant. Like, I'll burn it all to the ground. It's that enchanting.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Our daughter will work at the movie theater. It's like that anyway, so we're going to see. It probably helped that we were there to be with Eckhart Tolle. Do you know who Eckhart Tolle is?

[A]

Yes. You mean yes?

[B]

Yeah. Is that what you're gonna say?

[A]

Yes. But I haven't, like, followed him. Followed him.

[B]

I'm not gonna. There's no quiz.

[A]

Yeah, all right, fine.

[B]

But, you know, he's. He's. He's incredible. He's. He's one of the. He's changed my life. And we're sitting there, and on the last night, he's like, we're going to do a surprise evening. This is, after all, just talks about reality and consciousness and love and compassion and all this stuff. He's like, for the last night, I want to do something special, and we're going to have some laughs. And he. Julia, he played clips from Seinfeld and talked about them. Can you. And the clip that he played was you on the train. When you're.

[A]

Are you kidding me?

[B]

Yeah. No. He play and he goes. So it's you, and, you know, the lights go off and it's your inner monologue.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And he goes, this just shows the insanity of the ego. And it's true. It helps us laugh at what our minds are doing to us. They're torturing us. Is this. Am I ever gonna get out of this situation? Am I ever gonna eat? What if I have to pee? Like, they're not your friends. And he was like, this is what good comedy can do, is it helps us laugh and put some distance instead of identifying with that voice that you so beautifully play as the actor. But Also, the voiceover, it's showing us, it's giving. Do you know what I mean when I say it puts the distance between.

[A]

Yeah, sure.

[B]

When you're laughing at it, it's not you.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Somehow you're. I'm gonna say you're in the observer place. You're just kind of dispassionately going, like, what a trip to be a human. So I thought maybe you would enjoy that.

[A]

I love that. I can't. Yeah, I can't believe it. Actually, I couldn't either. I was. I was pregnant in that scene. I was very pregnant with my first son. Yeah. Because I was really sick.

[B]

Did he get paid? Yeah, he's in Sagna.

[A]

Yeah, he's a. Actually, he owns a piece of the show, unlike me.

[B]

So without forcing it, maybe the answer is no. But is there a spiritual side to you to frame you? You're in the safest place to believe whatever you want.

[A]

Yes. I would say that I'm a believer in the mystery of all of this, but I don't have a. A God per se that I pray to. The mystery is the God, the mystery of. Yes. I am in awe of the mystery of it all.

[B]

Can I give you one of my favorite quotes?

[A]

Go.

[B]

And then I die. Barry Taylor, the road manager for acdc, of all people, said that God is the name of the blanket we put over the mystery to give it a shape. So isn't that beautiful? We're all trying to find a way to talk about this phenomenon that most of us aren't talking about. Like you and I are on a space rock. You and I are independent, seemingly independent, conscious beings that woke up in this situation. And most people's strategies, it seems to me, is don't talk about it. Let's get some ice cream. Look, I get it. I take days where I just eat ice cream. Wait a day.

[A]

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[B]

Watch the oven.

[A]

I mean, you can't. You can't live in that world forever.

[B]

It'll literally depress me. It'll make me go a little bit off my thing. But I find great solace in going, like, isn't that. I mean, here we are. We're here right now.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And we don't know how we got here. We don't know where we're going.

[A]

Right.

[B]

But having even the word mystery is a way for you to participate with it. I'm going to put this to you, see if you agree, because you might not understand it, but you can experience it. Is that right?

[A]

Yes. And I'm in Awe of what? I don't know.

[B]

Yeah. And I. Is a feeling.

[A]

Yeah. I mean, it's like I was watching something on the TV about. They were talking about the Hubble telescope and everything that they have discovered, which is that there are all of these. What am I trying to say?

[B]

Clusters. Usually clusters.

[A]

No. But anyway, there's so much more out there than anybody had ever known. Okay. So much more.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And all of these universes, well beyond other universes, everywhere.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And I'm just like, huh?

[B]

Yeah. And that there was an amount of glass. Glass, question mark. And mirrors. Question mark.

[A]

I know.

[B]

You know what I mean? Like, what are we doing that we're seeing that far? And there's certain things in life that I've had conversations with scientists where I'm like, oh, I just saw the look on your face where, you know, there's no way to explain this to me. Like, you see that I'm missing the reading required to just begin this conversation.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

That's how I feel about the Hubble telescope.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Because I'm just over here going, mirrors.

[A]

It's like having another limb. It's like some people have that limb and you don't have it.

[B]

That's right.

[A]

I don't. I don't have. But I am in awe of what it is this is telling us.

[B]

Does it increase your anxiety or reduce your anxiety or a little bit of both?

[A]

I would say it's a little bit of both. I'm. But, you know, it makes me concerned about our insignificance.

[B]

Yes. Interesting. Yeah. Because that. That is what that question was getting at. It's like, on one hand, it's almost like, what are you worried about? That's anxiety reduction. And then on the other hand, it's like, oh, my God, we're. It's. We're nothing. Like, we're just a drop.

[A]

Yeah. And I think about that with the climate crisis, it's, you know.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

The planet's gonna be just fine, guys.

[B]

You know that. So we met at that standup show, and I. Oh, that's right. Yes.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

I got off stage and I was like, I have a climate change bit where. And I didn't do it. And it was.

[A]

You forgot.

[B]

I've just forgot. Driving home, I was like, all right. And it's that premise. You just nailed it. As I go, life will be okay. I don't know if we'll be okay.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But like, the.

[A]

No, no, we won't be okay. But the planet will carry on in some form.

[B]

And as it has Before.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Extinctions. And it's gonna. It's gonna be okay. And even after. No, I'm not saying we're gonna be okay.

[A]

No, I know.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

No, I'm like.

[B]

I just know.

[A]

You're.

[B]

You're. We met at the RNDC thing.

[A]

Nrdc. You did an incredible. That's the Natural Resources Defense Council for those who are. Yes.

[B]

That was such a fun show. But you and Tony were the only people that. Tony Hale were the. And my wife. I was only playing to you guys. Do you remember?

[A]

Of course I do. You were so funny.

[B]

That is so touching, because.

[A]

No, no, it's not touching. It's true. You were hilarious.

[B]

I got off stage and I was like, I don't. I went into a fugue state. Cause it wasn't an ideal setup for comedy. It was outside.

[A]

No, it was a bad setup for comedy.

[B]

It was a lot of very, very leisured, rich, powerful people in couches.

[A]

In couches. It's not.

[B]

And I go out and I say, like, a line that as a spoiled performer, I'm like, wait till they hear this line. I say it. It gets nothing. It gets beyond nothing. I'm being heckled by police sirens and spotlights going on buildings. But I start losing it and making fun of the show. And you and Tony, it's a career highlight. We're falling out of your seat like the Apollo. It was one of my favorite memories. But no one else was laughing.

[A]

That's not true, by the way. Other people were laughing. Has Tony been on your podcast?

[B]

He has, yeah.

[A]

Oh, good.

[B]

Isn't he fun? And he's a spiritual person.

[A]

Very.

[B]

Yeah, yeah. And a beautiful person.

[A]

Wonderful man. I just FaceTimed with him the other day. Cause he's doing a show in Rome and feeling a little. I know. Feeling a little homesick. And I love him so much. So I was happy to talk to her.

[B]

We read our daughter his book, which every time I mention it, archibald. Archibald saves the song.

[A]

Well, Archibald's next big thing.

[B]

That next. Thank you. Sorry. Yeah, I'm embarrassed. But that message has a very Eckhart Tolle message. Remember, the lesson is just be.

[A]

Just be.

[B]

Are you in your mystery appreciation space?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Because even as I just said it, I was like, right. We can do it right now. No one needs to know. You can just settle into yourself and just be like. When I talk to Val, my very wise wife, I'll be like, oh. Sometimes I worry that I'm just stringing along crumbs, like, of pleasure or an accolade or Some sort of high. And there's these long moments of string in between them. And all of us are just trying to maximize the good and minimize the bad. And sometimes I feel like a mouse scurrying on the ground looking for breadcrumbs instead of, I think, potentially sitting at the banquet table. And the banquet table is the present moment and just going, like. Because that's what she brought me back into. She goes, pete, are you doing that right now? Like, is that happening right now? It's Elaine on the train. I'm not trying to be funny. It's my brain going, all you're doing is delaying the inevitable. None of this matters. You're just trying to feel good. Oh, brav fucking O. Everyone's just trying to feel good.

[A]

Right.

[B]

But when you go, will you relax, brain? And I always say, drop anchor into the present moment and just go, like.

[A]

Wait, are you a meditator?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Good.

[B]

Are you?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

What flavor? Tm. Julia, you gotta do the tm. Do it. My voice is a little thrown. It's usually better.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

What's your mantra? I'm just kidding. It's a secret. How long have you been doing tm?

[A]

Couple years.

[B]

It's a new thing.

[A]

Yeah. I haven't been. Yes.

[B]

Did you tell Jerome?

[A]

Jerome was the one who put me in touch with my TM teacher.

[B]

What's her name?

[A]

His.

[B]

His name. Okay. I wondered if we had the same one.

[A]

Who's your.

[B]

The David lynch people here in la. Okay.

[A]

Same.

[B]

Does your mantra start with an S?

[A]

No.

[B]

Sh. I'm just kidding. Like, I keep. I keep spelling it.

[A]

And what is your atm?

[B]

Yes. You are the queen. You know you are. Do you. What's your experience been with it? Is it. Is it helping you?

[A]

It's helpful. It's hard for me to remember to do it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I'm not. I'm not as on it as I should be. The routine of it comes and goes.

[B]

Yeah. And you have to.

[A]

But it is something I can go to. And sometimes I need to go to it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But the other thing too, I think is, you know, getting out into the natural world has been a. Has been a huge source of comfort to me. You know, nature. Yeah. Just getting outside. Getting outside. And, you know, there's a. I think it's the Japanese have an expression called forest bathing, which you. I know. Doesn't that tell you everything? And so just getting out there and being in nature and moving in nature. It's a very good idea for the brain.

[B]

Something. You're smaller than things. See Leila, our daughter, loves to watch TV first thing in the morning because it happened during the lockdown, and now it's a habit we're trying to break. So we go, you can watch tv, but we have to do one thing outside first. And what I notice is when you're under the canopy of the sky and a tree that's bigger than you, it's just. That's the spirit. You should be going into your day. It's like you in the Hubble. It's like you're small, actually.

[A]

Right.

[B]

You think if you can put a TV show into your awareness, that's all that's happening. At least you're being titillated, actually. You're a part of a thing.

[A]

Right.

[B]

You're a tile in a mosaic. So going outside does that. The color green, also, they say it just lowers your blood pressure and all that. So that is. We can say that's, like, part of your.

[A]

Oh, that's interesting. I'm sure you're right about that.

[B]

Right in the way that red and yellow, they say, makes you hungry, which is why McDonald's is red and yellow.

[A]

Jesus Christ. Really?

[B]

I know, I know.

[A]

That explains why I'm hungry because I'm looking at these two things behind your head.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Bam.

[B]

Oh, my God. Red and yellow.

[A]

I'm going to McDonald's after this.

[B]

Don't do it.

[A]

Environmentally speaking, I promise you I won't set foot in that place.

[B]

I know this is a tricky thing, and I'm certainly not hanging it on you, but environmentally speaking. And I actually just started eating chicken again. I was vegan for a long time, and I just started eating chicken again because I fucking hate chickens. No, I'm just kidding. But I just wanted to simplify my diet. I was noticing I was eating a lot of processed stuff, and I was like, I'm gonna give in. I was already eating fish, which I know environmentally isn't great. So what I'm saying is I'm in the problem as well. So I'm not saying. It's just interesting to me that what is the attitude of the environmental groups when it comes to the huge impact that animal plants and processing does to the earth when we go. Like when you're going against someone's stomach and their culture. You know what I mean?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It's so hard when we all know. I think it's worse than planes, trains, cars combined.

[A]

Well, I think food waste is our big problem in terms of. In terms of emissions and contributing to the climate crisis. But, yeah, the world. I mean, I am not a vegan. I should be. The world would be a better place if we all were. Period. End of story.

[B]

Right? I mean, that's so hard psychologically. To unpack it. As someone who was vegan, the threat of that, of the vegan at the table, it's. It's uncomfortable. It's. It's like. Because, like, it's not just a piece of chicken. It's literally your mother's love. Like, that's what you think it is. Like, my mom made roast chicken.

[A]

What are you talking about?

[B]

I'm saying symbolically, my mom would cook me roast chicken. So if I say stop eating roast chicken, you're saying, is that the only.

[A]

Food she made you?

[B]

It's the one that I remember most fondly. Yeah, but that's what I mean. Or her apple pie has eggs in it, has milk in it. Like, these things are way more complicated. Meaning you can't go at it in a headway. I mean, it has to address the heart. It's almost like the only way to do it would be a reboot. You know what I mean? Like, wipe everybody's memory and then be like, we've been vegan the whole time. And then be like, oh, your mom used to make you seitan, or whatever it is. Right. I mean, I just. I'm sharing my own overwhelm, because that seems like such a good solution. But at the same time, here we are. Have you ever almost died?

[A]

Yeah. I mean, I had cancer, so. And I survived it.

[B]

I wasn't trying to be distasteful. I ask everybody that question.

[A]

Oh, yeah. But I'm answering it. Not being distasteful either. I'm just.

[B]

Yeah. In that moment, I was like, oh, I probably should have been sensitive about that.

[A]

You don't need to be. It's fun.

[B]

Tell me. Tell me about it. What did you learn?

[A]

I learned. What did I learn? I'm. That I'm very grateful to be here. And I don't know what I learned. I. It was.

[B]

Was it harder than you thought it would be?

[A]

Oh, yeah, yeah. It was a bear and a. And half.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I mean, in what. In what way?

[A]

Well, I. I had to go through chemotherapy, and it was a wicked chemotherapy that made me really, really sick.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Yeah. And then I had to have a lot of surgery, and it was. You know, I didn't. It was like getting hit from behind. Like a speed train speeding, coming at me from behind. That's. The whole thing was just like, what the fuck are you talking about? You know? But. But I got through it.

[B]

Did you? How did you feel about all of the other. I sometimes feel like when I go to the hospital, you present them with a pass, and they either stamp it and you can leave and your freedom pass is renewed, or they don't stamp it, and now you're in that side of things. You were on that side of things. You were held. You had a disease, you had to deal with it. How did you feel? And how did you deal with the rest of us carpenter ants going around being like, I tivoed American Auto, my favorite show, and it deleted it. And you're like, I might not be here.

[A]

No, I didn't think. I. That was not my approach. No. My point of view was not like that at all. I was very much just on getting through one day after another because I really was quite ill. And so I was not. I was very, you know, I was just laser focused on getting better.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I mean, for real, right? Yeah. And. And accepting kindnesses from other people. That was, you know, my. My. My circle of friends, you know, they. They circled around me in a way that was very comforting.

[B]

I mean, beautiful, too.

[A]

Right? I mean, it's including our friend Tony Hill, who is a dear heart.

[B]

Yeah, of course.

[A]

Of course. Yeah.

[B]

Laughs. Hospital laughs always. Really?

[A]

Sure.

[B]

I mean, can you imagine?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

There's something so human about what you're saying right now. You know what I mean? It's like we're all cancer. No. We're all in a tight spot.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And laughing is such a gift. So I'm just.

[A]

It's the only way out. Yeah, it really is.

[B]

Well, it takes you out, doesn't it?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It takes you out of your situation.

[A]

And it's a joyful experience.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Just to laugh.

[B]

Seinfeld told that story about visiting a friend in the hospital and he was dying, and he hawked something up, like it just had to be addressed. And he was talking about how he's going to the Comedy Cellar, and he goes, I tell you, I'm really looking forward to the hummus tonight. And like he said, they both died laughing, which is just the best, because it's a risk.

[A]

It's.

[B]

It's a little Bill and Ted's. It's a risk. Like, can I make fun just a little bit?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

How gross that was.

[A]

Right?

[B]

But the person is there, too. I mean, you're not the disease. The disease is happening to you. You're not the phlegm.

[A]

Right.

[B]

I mean, you had to experience that, too. You were still. Julia, you were there it's not like you were comfortable with the weird things or the valve that they got on you or whatever it might be.

[A]

Right.

[B]

But did people just. I mean, I guess I'm looking for a comment on that, but really, it doesn't really need one.

[A]

Yeah. It just is. And I've got. Got through it. And it was thankfully. And I was very. Talk about happy. You know, talk about getting back to work was just about the most joyful thing ever after that experience because we had to shut down our show. I was making Veep at the time. We had to shut it down for practically a year while I went through this thing. And then. But then I came back.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And the experience of being on set and making really good stuff again was just about as elevated as it gets. Talk about gratitude.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

My God in heaven, I have never been happier to get back on set.

[B]

Incredible.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And it's almost like you did a year. The quarantine too. I mean, you. You kind of had an experience of that. It's like sometimes life gets shut down.

[A]

That's right.

[B]

And did that help you roll with that? A little bit.

[A]

With the quarantine?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I took that quarantine seriously.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know, I was not. I was like, I think I'm not going to be arrogant about this at all.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. And strangely, good for the environment turned out. Yeah.

[A]

Yeah. Exactly.

[B]

Have you ever seen a ghost? You seem like a lady who's seen a ghost.

[A]

No. Have you think.

[B]

Cause you really seem like a lady that seen a ghost.

[A]

Look behind you right now. Have you?

[B]

No. The ghost of my cat jumps up on my bed reliably. Meaning if I go and stay at my mom's house and sleep in my old bed in the morning, I'll wake up by the ghost of my cat jumping on the bed. And I'm not. I'm hungry for that stuff. I love the unexplainable. But when I say it happens every time, it's bizarre. It's really bizarre.

[A]

Really?

[B]

Yeah. And I feel it. It curls up on me and I'm like, hi, Clem. It's Clem. It's not Marm. It's Clem.

[A]

As in Clementine.

[B]

Clementine who died in the house. And Marm snuggled right up on him and purred.

[A]

It was beautiful.

[B]

So I think Clem's still rocking. Or just like. It could. Look, it doesn't seem the flavor of our conversation, but it could just be like some weird, confusing. All time is happening simultaneously. So Clem is just kind of in the house. Not as a spirit, but just a glitch.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

What about a ufo? Anything unexplainable? A psychic ever blow your mind? You seem like a lady.

[A]

Yes, I've been to psychics and they were, she was mind blowing. But I can't remember anything she said.

[B]

Except that she knew stuff she couldn't have known.

[A]

Yes, and, but I can't, I don't remember what it was.

[B]

That's okay.

[A]

I'm sorry.

[B]

Facing cancer and thinking about the end. Did you think it was the end? Do you think?

[A]

No, no. Oh. Oh. When we die, it's everyone's death.

[B]

Is that the end? Is that lights out or are you open? Is that a mystery?

[A]

That's a mystery. And it's, you know, my father passed about. I actually lost my dad and I also lost my sister within a year of each other. And I think, I'm very much thinking that I'm not going to say they're around, but I, I, I, they're in me. I don't know how to say it. You know the, that I mean I believe in the somehow the spirit, but I don't know what, what I'm talking about. But I'm going to start a church and it's based on what I just said and donations. And donations. It's mainly about donations called the ATM Church.

[B]

Estimout. I knew because of your veepiness that that would be. Okay, here's, here's my question. Here's a 15 second and a perfect time to take a sip. I think aware there's only one awareness and we share it. And so therefore your father and your sister, I'm so sorry by the way, are literally with you. Meaning that awareness contains all. Everything, all things. So when I say to my daughter, for example, I'm always with you, I sort of mean that literally. I don't mean physically but like we are connected. And I think most of the better, more mystical leaning spiritual practices from Judaism and Kabbalah to mystical Christianity, certainly to Hinduism, Buddhism would say awareness is awareness. And it's one awareness. It's having a dream.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And in the dream I'm this and you're that. But behind it there's only one. When you really meditate, next time you're doing your TM with your non SH mantra, try and think about like it's just this. There's just one sensation of being like the Old Testament God. I am that. I am, I am amnes. And we're all sharing that m ness. So of course your Father, I'm. I'm one of those people that would be like. Like, where could they go?

[A]

Well, but have you lost anybody really important to you in your life?

[B]

I don't mean physically where they could go. I'm not trying to negate the loss. I'm saying.

[A]

No, no, I know. Yeah. Yeah.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Yeah, Yeah.

[B]

I haven't yet. No.

[A]

Good. Well, I mean, eventually it's all going to happen to everybody, but.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But, yeah, tell me what that made you think. What? What? What? Give me the wiser. Wiser than me?

[A]

Oh, shit.

[B]

Oh, I thought you were about to.

[A]

No, I wasn't.

[B]

I thought I was talking like someone who hasn't lost someone. I thought that's maybe what I stepped in.

[A]

No, no, no, no, no, no, no. I was wonder. I. I was asking. Never mind. I was asking you because I thought maybe you'd lost someone and that you weren't feeling okay. No, never mind, Never mind.

[B]

I love it.

[A]

No wisdom here. Nothing.

[B]

Zero.

[A]

Nah fucking thing.

[B]

Okay, let's. Let's do a speed round and we'll get you out of here. It's a little toasty in here. I think it's these extra bodies.

[A]

I am warm.

[B]

Can you turn the air on, Katie, please?

[A]

Yeah, Isn't that fuck up the sound?

[B]

It's quiet. It's whisper quiet. This is a fun part of the show. When I watch Comedians and Cards, the only thing I care about is what they order and how they order it. So these moments, how we are as we're turning on the air, as interesting. There you go. Put on 69. It's the only funny one. Can you tell me a great lesson you've learned about motherhood? Just a quick one. Something someone told you. A perspective, an attitude, a little line.

[A]

Hold on.

[B]

Are you holding for sound? Because a plane is going by.

[A]

Well, I can tell you this. I can tell you that if I were giving myself advice as a young mother, I would. The advice I would say is, please relax, it's going to be fine.

[B]

We need to hear. I'm going to tell Val that you said that.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Because we're over here going like. Yeah, I know.

[A]

Oh my God.

[B]

Because Lila loses her shit a lot. She had a full meltdown because one kid said that swing is higher than that one. And she said, no, it's not.

[A]

I'm with her. By the way, that kid's wrong.

[B]

What about show business? Is there a mantra that's carried you through show business that did you. Well, it doesn't even have to be a clean Line. Just the greatest lesson you've learned or a lesson that you've learned about navigating this. It could even be what we've already said.

[A]

I would say it would be to trust your instincts.

[B]

Trust you in when you're performing.

[A]

Generally speaking.

[B]

Generally speaking. Because that brings me to acting. What's a great. What's something you try to hold in your mind or not hold in your mind when you're acting? Is there a great lesson someone's taught you about how to perform?

[A]

Listen.

[B]

Yeah, you gotta listen hard to beat the great.

[A]

But you really do have. And a lot of actors make that mistake.

[B]

I've. Look, I've not listened. And there have been a lot of times where I'd had to go, like, can you just. Can you just be here, please? Yeah, because, you know, sometimes we're just trying to remember our lines and it can be a real bummer.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But that's where my wound so feel. Growing up in a household where I didn't necessarily feel recognized helps because I'm going like, that's. And it helps in stand up. It's like, I need everyone, let's lock in. And that's the gift.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

You know what I mean?

[A]

Yes, yes.

[B]

What about. And acting, comedy. And I know you don't believe in a God, but some mystery. The great lesson you've learned about the mystery. I mean, we're both doing it right now. What do you carry with you when it comes to not freaking out that we're. That we're here and we don't know what's going on?

[A]

Well, sometimes when I'm feeling particularly anxious about something. This is so bad.

[B]

But anyway, I love it already. No, love the area.

[A]

But I made me think legitimately. I think to myself, well, at least I can still breathe. And I. And I do, actually. I know that sounds so simple minded, but I just think, okay, I can breathe. I can still get air into my lungs.

[B]

I'll always remember that answer. Why did you put down that answer?

[A]

I don't know.

[B]

Great answer.

[A]

Sort of. Oh, is that. That's your Jerry impression.

[B]

No, that was my Michael Richards. No, no, wrong one. Wrong last question. Because it is just too warm in here.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And you've got that movie coming out.

[A]

I got a lot to do.

[B]

These guys have to pee.

[A]

They've got to get my face cream is what they've got to do.

[B]

Here's you leave the room. And this is my real Jerry impression. You just did your audition. He goes, that was fantastic. That was her.

[A]

Go get her yeah, that. Wait. Do it again.

[B]

That was fantastic. That's her. Go get her.

[A]

Yeah, it's not bad.

[B]

It's not bad. It's. I wouldn't do it for him.

[A]

Why?

[B]

I met Jerry. One, two, and I. And he complimented something of mine. And I went like this. And I could tell from his face. I blew it. Like I was too big.

[A]

No.

[B]

You don't think.

[A]

No, I'm sure not.

[B]

I was just like. That just seemed like something he'd be like. He. Did the mind. Mind explode? Do we need the mind explode?

[A]

Yeah. That's good.

[B]

Okay. All right. Got my little key bump of validation for the day. You're fabulous. Thank you, kind. You're true talent.

[A]

Thank you for having me.

[B]

Thank you for doing it.

[A]

Very, very charming to be here.

[B]

One final question.

[A]

Go.

[B]

You're gonna love it, though. I hope. Can you tell me the time in your life you laughed harder than you've ever laughed? Here's the caveat, though. It doesn't have to be a good story. Maybe you were a kid. Maybe someone fell. Maybe someone farted. These usually get people there. I just want you. You're crying, laughing. Where are you? How old are you? Who are you with?

[A]

Oh, geez, I gotta think. I was in the Glee club in fifth grade. Or maybe it was seventh grade. No, it had to have been seventh grade. And we had to sing this stupid song which was called. What was it called? Turn around and you're one. Turn around and you're two. Do you know this song? Does anyone know what I'm talking about?

[B]

Is that Drake?

[A]

I can't remember what it was, but it was like singing about children aging and. Turn around and you're a young woman walking out of the door. Something like that.

[B]

It's like a reimagining of Sunrise.

[A]

So it was sort of. And I was standing next to my friend, and we were supposed to sing it straight. And I. We got into so much trouble because I was doubled over. It was the stupidest song. We just sang it for this huge recital with all the parents. And I couldn't get through it. And it was really bad.

[B]

Because of the stupidness of the song. Or just the pressure, or just the, like, forbidden.

[A]

No, the forbidden. First of all, it was stupid. I didn't want to sing it. She didn't either. It was. It was just an asshole song. And then we had to sing it seriously in front of all the parents and the teachers. And we were forbidden from laughing. Please.

[B]

That's all you need.

[A]

That's all you need to Be forbidden is unbelievable.

[B]

Singing and forbidden are often in the answer. It's often like church.

[A]

Oh, really?

[B]

Yes. It has to be forbidden. We. Val. It reminds me of one where Val and I. I did this corporate gig. It was actually worse than a corporate. It was a private birthday party. Very sweet people. And the woman asked, the guy asked if I would stay and listen to his wife sing.

[A]

No.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

No, you didn't.

[B]

Yes. And I stayed.

[A]

And look, what kind of music was she singing?

[B]

She wanted to sing I will always love you. And in her defense. Yes, that's it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

They played the Dolly Parton version. The band played the wrong version. So in her defense. But Val and I are sitting there with this woman's family, and she's up there being like. Like, just kind of uncomfortable and off. And I was like, I can't wait to fart in the car. Not fart, but, like, laugh about this. But it's gonna be incredible.

[A]

But were you able to keep your shit together?

[B]

Oh, I kept it together, yeah.

[A]

Oh, good on you.

[B]

Thank you. Yeah. It's the best acting I've ever done. It's like. That was good. That's very good. Because you know what? Even as I'm telling it, I like singing poorly, singing, so vulnerable. I don't really, like, I can't fully get behind just, like, massacring this woman, because I get it. I feel the same way about stuttering. I've never laughed at someone stuttering, making fun of a stutter. It's just too vulnerable.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

You know what I mean? Yeah. I'm not alone on that completely. Julia Louis.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Thank you, Pete.

[A]

Thank you so much for having me.

[B]

Would you please. Keep it crispy is how we end. The guest says, keep it crispy. All I can say, it doesn't mean anything. It's not a trap. It's just how we say it.

[A]

It feels like a trap.

[B]

It's a trap. It's kind of a.

[A]

Keep it crispy. Did I do it?

[B]

You did it perfectly.

[A]

What are these drinks?

[B]

Oh, this is called Magic Mind. That was for you. Are you working today?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Drink this.

[A]

I mean, and I'm working right now, aren't I?

[B]

Yeah, for sure. You should have drank it before the interview. To be honest, it was a little lackluster.

[A]

What is.

[B]

Has a little bit of caffeine, 35 milligrams of caffeine. So it's got Matcha nootropics, you know, vitamins that help you think, and it has adaptogens that help you cope with stress. So the mix of the caffeine and the adaptogens give you this very even flow state. I love it.

[A]

Really.

[B]

I'll give you a bunch. You can take both of these. But if you're doing emails or work or. Or tomorrow for your photo shoot, even just to, like, kind of stay alert. Yeah, I'll give you a bunch.

[A]

Oh, how fabulous.

[B]

It's. I just sent a name drop. Just send a bunch to Anne Lamott. Like, it's my thing. Who'd be great on your pod.

[A]

Yes. As a matter of fact. Yes. And who was quoted by Jane Fonda.

[B]

In my podcast, Believe it I. This is. I'm not just flattering.

[A]

No is a complete sentence.

[B]

I know. If they wanted us to talk about them more better in our writing, they should have behaved better. That's one of my favorite. I just butchered it. But when you write. I wrote a book. You write about your family and you tell the truth, and you're like, do I have to.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Ask their permission? And Anne Lamont says, if they wanted you to write better about them, they should behave differently.

[A]

Nice.

[B]

And I'm like, oh, she's bad.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I was just gonna say I don't know if she's old enough, but wait until she's. I don't know.

[A]

I don't know how.

[B]

That's like me being like, yeah, I think so. You might have to wait.

[A]

She has to make me have to wait. But do more stress less. I like that.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Thank you so much.

[B]

You want Magic Mind? And thank you so much.

[A]

Thank you for having me.

[B]

What a pleasure.

[A]

Pleasure. Let me give you a hug.

[B]

Oh, yes, please.