Good One: A Podcast About Jokes

Marc Maron's Tumeric

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0000

When veteran stand-up Marc Maron recorded his latest hour special, End Times Fun, back in October 2019, he had no idea how topical it would be. Seven months later, End Times Fun has proven to be bizarrely, morosely timely, as it deals with themes of uncertainty, fear, and isolation, in the face of a looming apocalypse.

In this episode, recorded in the shadow of the growing coronavirus pandemic, Jesse David Fox talks to the host of the seminal comedy podcast WTF about his opening, table-setting joke, which involves questioning how we know anything, and the utility of taking spices for medicinal purposes.

Watch End Times Fun on Netflix. Follow Marc on Twitter and Instagram. Follow Jesse David Fox on Twitter and Instagram.

Taylor Tomlinson's Virginity

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0000

On this week’s episode, standup comedian wunderkind Taylor Tomlinson (Self-Helpless podcast) talks about becoming one of the youngest comics ever to have their own Netflix one-hour stand-up special. Her path to taping her hilarious Quarter-Life Crisis at the age of 25 is an extremely nontraditional one: she started as a teenage Christian comedian, after taking a stand-up class with her father. This meant to fully become the comedian she wanted to be, she had to distance herself from her church and her dad.

As a result of her religious upbringing, Taylor lost her virginity after she had already become an established comedian. The joke she discusses this episode mines the absolute absurdity of that for comedy, while slyly touching on more serious issues of consent. All building to a perfect classic movie reference!

Watch Quarter-Life Crisis on Netflix. Follow Taylor on Twitter and Instagram. Follow Jesse David Fox on Twitter and Instagram.

Moshe Kasher's Crowd Work

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0000

On this week’s episode, we welcome back Moshe Kasher, a comedian who’s best known as an early podcast pioneer (R.I.P. the Champs, long live Houndtall and The Endless Honeymoon) and one-half of the standup power couple with wife Natasha Leggero, who he starred alongside in Netflix’s Honeymoon Stand Up Special.

This time he’s discussing the much maligned art of crowd work, where the comedian talks to audience members in search of laughs or a funny story. Moshe has become a modern master, able to turn the form that is often lazy and hacky into something ambitious and damn near spiritual. He compares crowd work to walking out on a tightrope and hoping that the rope goes all the way to the other side.

The joke we discuss is a sex story from a Washington, D.C. woman that twists and turns, forcing Moshe to ride it like a wave. It’s off his appropriately titled album Crowd Surfing Vol. 1, which he released last year.

Listen to the album wherever you listen to music. Follow Moshe on Twitter and Instagram. Follow Jesse David Fox on Twitter.

Michelle Wolf's Otters

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 09:00:00 -0000

Our two-part series on “comedians named Michelle” continues this week with Michelle Wolf. Michelle has been known to comedy fans for years for writing and performing on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” and “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.” But her headliner performance at the 2018 White House Correspondents Dinner made her a household name and changed the expectations of the audiences that went to see her stand-up.

The joke discussed in this episode, which starts off with otter pictures on social media, opens her recent Netflix special, “Joke Show,” and is her attempt to reckon with her public perception, and to define her comedy by what she says, and not the reactions to it. NOTE: This episode contains a discussion about rape jokes.

Watch “Michelle Wolf: Joke Show” on Netflix. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram and check out her upcoming tour dates on her website. Follow Jesse David Fox on Twitter.

Michelle Buteau's "Nobody Wanna See Your D*ck"

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 09:00:00 -0000

Good One relaunches with comedian Michelle Buteau, who you may know as host of the Netflix reality show "The Circle," or her roles in "Always Be My Maybe" and the "First Wives Club" reboot on BET+. Michelle’s about to bring her conversational, big-hearted stand-up to a worldwide audience with her first Netflix one-hour special.

Host Jesse David Fox talks to Michelle about a joke featured in her 15-minute set from Netflix’s “The Comedy Lineup.” The joke was recorded in February 2018, three months after the reports of sexual misconduct came out about Harvey Weinstein, leading to the explosion of the #MeToo movement. Michelle’s joke is her processing all she was seeing and hearing and, in turn, boiling it down to one perfect phrase. Also included: mid-century modern furniture.

Watch “The Comedy Lineup” on Netflix and see Michelle record her Netflix special on March 1st at New York’s Sony Hall. Tickets on sale here. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Follow Jesse David Fox on Twitter.

Good One Trailer

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 09:00:00 -0000

What goes into writing and telling a joke? Each week, Vulture senior editor Jesse David Fox breaks down a joke with the comedian or performer who told it. New episodes drop Tuesday mornings. From Vulture and the Vox Media Podcast Network.

BONUS: Josh Gondelman Interviews Jesse

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 23:04:39 -0000

This is the episode you've been asking for -- yes all of you! The tables are turned as Josh Gondelman interviews Good One host Jesse David Fox (@JesseDavidFox), and poses all the big questions -- why a podcast about jokes? What's changed about comedy today? How are you relaunching the show? And what's up with the laughning round?

Josh Gondelman (@JoshGondleman) is a comedian, the author of the recent collection of essays, Nice Try, and a co-executive producer of the Showtime series Desus & Mero, New episodes of Good One drop weekly on Tuesdays starting February 25th. Subscribe to Good One on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

From Vulture and the Vox Media Podcast Network.

The Good Place's Janet and Jason (BONUS)

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 21:54:00 -0000

In anticipation of the series finale of The Good Place, stars D’Arcy Carden and Manny Jacinto talk about how the show's writers came up with the unconventional romance between their characters Janet and Jason, what they're going to miss most about the show, and how playing Jason inspired Manny to propose to his fiancé. This panel was recorded live at Vulture Festival in Los Angeles on November 9th, 2019, and was moderated by The Good Place: The Podcast host/demon Shawn Marc Evan Jackson.

Moshe Kasher's Personal Hell (Rerun)

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox and Moshe Kasher deconstruct a joke about heaven from Moshe's 2013 "Live From Oakland" special -- it's a bit that's evolved over time, as he first tried a much shorter version of the joke on his 2009 album. They talk about religion, Moshe's 2017 Comedy Central show "Problematic", and how Moshe mastered the art of "highbrow-lowbrow."

BONUS: At the end of the episode, we've got a special preview of Moshe's new comedy album, Crowd Surfing, which comes out January 24, 2020. Live in Oakland is available on all streaming platforms.

Featuring: Moshe Kasher (@MosheKasher).

Host: Jesse David Fox (@JesseDavidFox) is Senior Editor at Vulture.

Subscribe to Good One on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

This episode originally aired on May 8th, 2017.

Nikki Glaser Roasts Bruce Willis (Rerun)

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 16:00:00 -0000

Nikki Glaser asserted herself as a ruthless and talented roaster at Comedy Central's Roast of Rob Lowe in 2016, so it was no surprise that she was invited back for Bruce Willis in 2018. Nikki walks Jesse through the roast process from start to finish, explaining the massive undertaking that is writing effective insults.

Follow Nikki on Twitter and Instagram, and check out her website for her upcoming live shows.

This episode originally aired on October 29th, 2018.

I Think You Should Leave's Focus Group Sketch

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Ok, here we go. The most requested joke/sketch/idea for this show, ever.

Recorded live from Vulture Festival 2019 in LA, it's the first ever "Live Oral History" featuring one of the year's best pieces of comedy.

"Ford Focus Group" is a sketch from Netflix's I Think You Should Leave. It stars writers and creators Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin, along with Ruben Rabasa, who plays a boisterous but endearing participant in a focus group for a car development. Hilarity ensues.

Director Akiva Schaffer also joins to discuss the creation and execution of this sketch, from development to writing to casting to shooting to reception.

Also included: Someone with only great car ideas.

Watch the sketch here.

This episode was recorded on November 10th, 2019.

Best Standup Specials of 2019 (Part 2)

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Aaaaaaand we're back. Jesse and Vulture Staff Writer Kathryn VanArendonk continue their review of the year's ten best standup specials, counting down numbers 5 to 1.

Discussed in this episode:

This is Part 2 of a 2-part episode.

Best Standup Specials of 2019 (Part 1)

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 06:00:00 -0000

As 2019 draws to a close, Jesse and Vulture Staff Writer Kathryn VanArendonk review her ranking of the year's ten best standup specials, with some added honorable mentions.

Discussed in this episode:

This is Part 1 of a 2-part episode.

Party Down Reunion Panel (BONUS)

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 06:00:00 -0000

In another live panel recorded at Vulturefest 2019 in LA, we're bringing you the first ever Party Down reunion. Jesse talks with the show's creators and stars about what went into casting the show, and then runs through their favorite episodes and moments. Everyone talks about how much they got paid, Megan has a wig, Martin talks about "playing" with other actors, and the panel agrees that while there probably won't be a movie, there's bound to be new Party Down coming down the line at some point. Also included: Woah. I can't believe he showed up for this. This episode was recorded on November 10th, 2019.

Community Reunion Panel (BONUS)

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Recorded live at Vulture Festival 2019 in LA, holy shit, it's a live Community reunion! The cast and creators of the hit show Community talk about their favorite episodes and moments from the series. Jim raps, Danny does the Batman voice, everyone talks about Chevy and Donald, there was a scene that got cut where Shirley was supposed to poop in a drawer? Everyone gushes about the fun and hard work that went into the show, on camera behind the scenes. A story about being on the set of War of the Worlds gets repeated a couple times. It's great. Also included: movie? This panel was recorded on November 10th, 2019.

Maria Bamford Wants You to Know How Much Money She Makes (Rerun)

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 06:00:00 -0000

A lot of people tell us we should talk to Maria Bamford, and you know what? They're right. They're so right that we're re-airing the episode she was on two years ago. The interview focuses on the commencement speech she gave at the University of Minnesota—her alma mater—in which she discussed the negotiations that took place to arrive at her fee for said speech, along with a long list of the mistakes she'd made in her life. Maria talks frankly about her financial status, and how to deal with being lowballed. The conversation also touches on Maria's relationship with her audience, the evolution of her specials, and how her struggle with unwanted thoughts affected her comedy. This episode is one of the most detailed looks at the business side of comedy, and is a must listen for anyone who's ever needed to negotiate their monetary worth in any field. Also included: a fart noise. Watch the speech here. Follow Maria on Twitter and Instagram, and check out her live dates on her website. This episode originally aired on October 27th, 2017.

Ron Funches's "F Linda" (Rerun)

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Jesse talks to Ron Funches about his short but sweet joke "F Linda". The "F" in this joke title stands for f**k, so you're going to hear the word f**k a lot. Wait, where are those stars coming from. I can't type f**k here? Ok. Fine. Moving on. "F Linda" is just over a minute and half long, but Ron Funches achieves maximum hang time in between the few words that comprise the joke. Jesse asks Ron about how true the joke is (it's true), his singsong delivery and how he allows his audience time to catch up with the joke. Also included: A joke from Ron's kid. Follow Ron on Twitter and Instagram. Listen to or watch Ron's latest special Giggle Fit wherever you listen to or watch comedy. Here's one of those places! This episode originally aired October 29, 2017.

Jen Kirkman's Cure for Street Harassment (Rerun)

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode from Season 1, Jen Kirkman looks at the closer of her 2017 special Just Keep Livin'? She and Jesse start at the very kernel of this joke, going back to its inciting incident in a Starbuck's parking lot in North Carolina. Jen took that event and incorporated it into her act that night, and kept reworking it at subsequent shows. From there, Jen built a whole drama around the character she encountered in that parking lot. Realizing the joke's potential to close out her show, Jen took the larger conversation on street harassment and constructed a bit around it. Every element of the joke is a tool she consciously employed to make the topic something that could simultaneously crack the audience up while making them slightly more aware of the innate horror of unsolicited compliments from strangers on the street. Jesse asks Jen to describe her strategy when crafting this special, and the two analyze the origins of its political undertones. Also included: the first joke Jen ever told. See Jen live. Follow Jen on Twitter. This episode originally aired March 27th, 2017.

Taika Waititi's Thor: Ragnarok (Rerun)

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Back in Season 2, Jesse got to speak with actor, writer, and director Taika Waititi about his remarkably comedic take on the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thor: Ragnarok. The interview touches on Taika's New Zealand style of comedy, and how he approached changing a historically serious protagonist like Thor into the goofy, muscly, laugh-inducing character that he is in Ragnarok. Jesse and Taika talk pre and post production, as well as what role improvisation takes on set. Also included: eggs. Follow Taika on Twitter and see Jojo Rabbit while it's still in theaters. This episode originally aired on November 5th, 2017.

Roy Wood Jr.'s Black Patriotism (Rerun)

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 08:00:00 -0000

In 2017, Jesse recorded a live episode of Good One with Roy Wood Jr. at the Just For Laughs Festival in Toronto. The bit that they discussed was "Black Patriotism?", from Roy's 2017 special Father Figure. Roy reveals the staggering amount of live comedy he watches in order to ensure his material is truly his own. He's a brilliant comedic strategist who understands that for a joke to truly be funny, it needs to be funny everywhere--even in front of the people it pokes fun at. Also included: Roy recounts working with Ron Jeremy. Watch Roy's latest special No One Loves You on Comedy Central. Follow Roy on Twitter. This episode originally aired on November 19, 2017.

Tig Notaro's Taylor Dayne Story (Rerun)

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Tig Notaro has been one of the most requested Good One guests, so we're replaying our interview with her from Season 1. Tig and Jesse talk at her house about her breakthrough Taylor Dayne joke, in which Tig chronicles her various run-ins with singer/songwriter/actress Taylor Dayne. We walk through a few different performances of the joke, specifically from her album Good One (ha), her appearance on Conan, and a small, little-known indie podcast called This American Life. What was originally a 30 minute joke was whittled down to half that length for the album, with various encounters with Taylor Dayne (all of them true) shuffled in and out. Also included: Tig presses Jesse regarding the cuteness of her children. Follow Tig on Instagram. This episode originally aired on March 19, 2017.

"Weird Al" Yankovic's "Word Crimes" (Rerun)

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 08:00:00 -0000

In Jesse's first "holy shit, I'm interviewing this person" interview, "Weird Al" Yankovic explains what went into his song "Word Crimes" from his 2014 album Mandatory Fun. Based on Robin Thicke's multiplatinum, misogynistic club theme "Blurred Lines", Al's parody goes the educational route and confronts the multitude of offenses committed against proper grammar and syntax. In true Good One fashion, Jesse breaks down "Word Crimes" to the syllable, having Al walk him through brainstorming the concept, navigating communication with Thicke's camp, and ultimately recording and releasing the parody. Also included: all of the parody ideas Al went through before landing on "Word Crimes". Follow Al on Twitter. Listen to "Weird Al" wherever you get music.Apple MusicSpotifyGoogle Play This episode originally aired on March 5, 2017.

Jerry Seinfeld (Rerun)

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Haven't bothered to check out the Good One back catalogue yet? Well, don't worry. We're digging out the classics to bring to you while you wait for our next season. In this proto-episode of Good One, hear the interview with Jerry Seinfeld that inspired this whole show. Recorded live at Vulturefest in 2015, Jesse was given the opportunity to interview Jerry in front of a live audience. The conversation is based around a clip from Jerry's series Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee (now on Netflix), but quickly branches out to include Jerry's history with his Seinfeld costars, his past and present material, and even the his feelings on filming a new special--something that wouldn't happen until two years later in 2017. Also included: Jerry really, really doesn't want to use a mic for Q&A. Follow Jerry on Twitter. This episode originally aired on May 14, 2017.

Gilbert Gottfried's The Aristocrats

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 08:00:00 -0000

In the Season 6 finale of Good One, we finally deconstruct the legendary joke "The Aristocrats" with the help of its most infamous teller, Gilbert Gottfried. This one's marked explicit for a reason, folks. You'll hear Gilbert's personal history with the joke, along with his retelling of his set the night of the Hugh Hefner roast, where he launched this joke into the public eye. Jesse asks Gilbert about the evolution of his onstage persona and his relationship with audiences. Also included: Jesse's Bubbe's favorite joke, and Gilbert's shortest version of "The Aristocrats". Follow Gilbert on Twitter and listen to Gilbert Gottfried's Amazing Colossal Podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Nate Bargatze's Dead Horse

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Nate Bargatze is one of the the few comedians whose funniness Jesse couldn't fully put his finger on. He wrote about Nate's Dead Horse joke in April 2018 after Nate performed a shortened version of it on Jimmy Fallon. It was an atypical joke for late night not only because of the length of the joke, but because it was a story about an actual dead horse. But Nate pulled it off, and he pulled it off again in his 2019 Netflix special The Tennessee Kid. Nate talks to Jesse about how he balances punchlines with a conversational joke-telling style, and what actually happened to make him want to turn a dead horse into a joke. They also touch on Nate's father being a clown and magician, and how that upbringing gave Nate the specific ability to make extraordinary and fantastic parts of life seem...regular. Also included: Nate's best heckler. Follow Nate on Twitter.

Whitney Cummings's Feminist Huddle

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Whitney Cummings released her latest stand-up special Can I Touch It? on July 30, 2019. Its title can be read a few different ways, one of which being a question of what is and isn't ok for comedians to joke about. Jesse talks to to Whitney about tackling sensitive topics in her act, and how it relates to #metoo and feminism. Whitney reflects on past jokes and behaviors, and how it makes sense at this point in her career to be self-critical. The conversation also focuses on her rigorous daily writing process, in which she spends hours researching topics to determine what's already been said about it. Also included: Whitney picks her favorite roast jokes--by her and about her. Follow Whitney on Twitter and watch Can I Touch It? on Netflix.

Danny McBride's The Righteous Gemstones’s Opening Scene

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Danny McBride walks Jesse through the opening scene of his new HBO series The Righteous Gemstones. Along the way, they also touch on the first scenes of his other series and films, including Eastbound & Down, The Foot Fist Way, and Vice Principals. Danny talks about where he wanted to go after Vice Principals ended, as well as the research that went into creating a show about Christian megachurches and superstar preachers. Jesse also asks Danny about how he constructs his antiheroes, and the different ways he utilizes the writers rooms on each of his projects. Also included: dick symbolism. The Righteous Gemstones premieres August 18th on HBO. Follow Danny on Instagram.

Russian Doll's 22 Death Scenes

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0000

This week we're looking at the greatest joke of all: death. More specifically, the twenty-two deaths that occur over the course of the Netflix series Russian Doll. Jesse talks to Leslye Headland, the show's co-creator, writer and director, about the protagonist Nadia's (Natasha Lyonne) journey episode-by-episode, and the significance behind each death she experiences. The show uses death to explore overcoming trauma and self-destructive behaviors under a deeply dark yet comedic veil. Just a heads-up, this episode's going to spoil the entire plot of the show. So if you haven't seen it yet, we're recommending you go watch the show now. Also included: Natasha Lyonne says "cockroach" funny. Follow Leslye on social media. You can watch Vulture's supercut of all of Russian Doll's death scenes here. Watch Russian Doll on Netflix.

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’s Catskills Set

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Jesse speaks to Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, the creators and co-writers of the tv-show The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Despite the titular Mrs. Maisel being a fictional comedian, Jesse wants to know where she might draw her material from, and how she might write and perform comedy within the context of the show. Jesse asks Amy and Daniel about Mrs. Maisel's creation, and how they go about writing and pulling off a realistic standup performance. Also included: the parallels between Mrs. Maisel and Breaking Bad. Watch The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Prime Video.

Emily Heller's Workout Clothes

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Comedian, writer and actor Emily Heller talks to Jesse about a joke from both her album Pasta and her Comedy Central standup special Ice Thickeners. Despite being recorded about six months apart, her delivery and wording is almost exactly the same in each version. Jesse and Emily go over her meticulousness and handling of tropes, as well as the writing retreats she employs to develop new material. Ultimately, the two get around to discussing how Emily actually hasn't done stand-up for some time due to her work in writing for television--namely HBO's Barry. Also included: riding hairy shoulders to the moon. Follow Emily on Twitter and watch her special Ice Thickeners on YouTube or Comedy Central.

Late Night Writers Panel (LA)

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 08:00:00 -0000

Jesse once again dives into the world of Late Night television, hosting another panel of writers at NeueHouse in Los Angeles. While the writers answer Jesse's questions about their starts in Late Night and their daily routines, a good chunk of the conversation involves the guests grilling one another on how their shows function, comparing their processes for pitching, writing and producing. Jesse asks the writers how they maintain their individual voices when writing for their respective hosts, what it's like to write in the current political climate, and for advice for aspiring writers. Also included: Jesse once again needs to know what Late Night writers eat for lunch. This panel includes:Jessie Gaskell (Conan)Matt Gunn (Real Time with Bill Maher)Jocelyn Richard (I Love You, America with Sarah Silverman)Danny Ricker (Jimmy Kimmel Live!)Jenny Yang (Busy Tonight with Busy Phillipps)

James Adomian's Gay Villains

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Comedian, actor, and impressionist James Adomian talks to Jesse about a joke from his first album Low Hangin Fruit about the gay villain archetype portrayed in Disney films, and many other forms of media. James recounts how the joke snowballed from one impression to many, and eventually became his closer. James also reflects on gay comedy and where it stands today, and how he balances gay material within the context of his entire set. Listen to James on his podcast The Underculture.

Amanda Seales's Catcalling

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Amanda Seales does a lot. Besides being an actress, poet, musician, DJ, lecturer and activist, she's also a great comedian. Jesse and Amanda talk about her natural progression into comedy after being a prominent figure in all other forms of media, and a joke about catcalling from her 2019 HBO special I Be Knowin'. While the joke itself stems directly from Amanda's experience, it took shape after her appearance on a CNN panel in which a white male panelist asserted that catcalling is a compliment. Jesse looks at the differences between the joke as it appears on her special and the version in her Late Night with Seth Meyers appearance, highlighting Amanda's ability to adjust her material on the fly. Follow Amanda on Twitter, and catch her on her Smart Funny & Black Tour this summer, and check Also included: Amanda's first-ever time performing comedy on-stage.

Anthony Jeselnik's Three Flights

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Join Jesse as he interviews Anthony Jeselnik in front of an audience at Clusterfest in San Francisco. While the interview is based around a specific joke from Anthony's latest special Fire in the Maternity Ward, Jesse walks Anthony through his past jokes that deal with the same subject matter. The two also touch on Anthony's persona and regard (or disregard) for his audience, as well as the unanticipated changes he's made to his act due to current events. Also included: a very large audience applauds in an adjacent auditorium, and it's definitely not because John Mulaney is onstage in said auditorium.

Desus & Mero's EGOT Quest

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Daniel "Desus Nice" Baker and Joel "The Kid Mero" Martinez make up the Bronx-born comedy duo Deus & Mero. The two met in high school and reconnected on Twitter. From 2013-2014 they cohosted their podcast Desus vs Mero, then went on to appear on MTV's Guy Code in 2015. Around the same time they launched their current podcast Bodega Boys, which propelled them towards their own TV show, first on VICE and most recently on Showtime. Jesse charts their careers to understand what sets them apart from other Late Night television personalities, examining their roots as well as how their definition of authenticity affects their comedy. Also included: puns. Follow Desus & Mero on Twitter and watch them on Showtime, Mondays and Thursdays at 11PM.

Late Night Writers Panel (NY)

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Jesse talks to a panel of writers from NYC's Late Night TV shows. Recorded in front of an audience in conjunction with 92Y Talks, the guests guide Jesse through a day in the life of a Late Night TV writer. The group shares how they got started, their career landmarks, and advice for aspiring comedy writers. Also included: what Late Night writers eat for lunch. The panel includes:Ziwe Fumudoh (Desus & Mero, The Rundown with Robin Thede)Josh Gondelman (Desus & Mero, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver)Jenny Hagel (Late Night with Seth Meyers, White Guy Talk Show)Kat Radley (The Daily Show with Trevor Noah)Nicole Silverberg (Full Frontal with Samantha Bee)Kate Sidley (The Late Show with Stephen Colbert) Rebecca Shaw (The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon)

Joel Kim Booster's Gay Dads

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0000

Comedian Joel Kim Booster talks to Jesse about the evolution of his late night sets and career, focusing in partiuclar on his January 2019 performance on The Late Late Show with James Corden. Joel addresses Asian and gay stereotypes as they've appeared in comedy, as well as why he adopts a "hot idiot" persona onstage despite only being one of those two things. (He's hot, not an idiot.) Follow Joel Kim Booster on Twitter and watch Joel on NBC's Sunnyside, Thursday nights this fall.

The Lonely Island's Jose & Mark

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 08:46:38 -0000

Akiva Schaffer and Andy Samberg of The Lonely Island talk to Jesse about a track off of their newest release, The Unauthorized Bash Brothers Experience, a "visual poem" about the imagined rap careers of former Oakland Athletics sluggers Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco. The two frappers talk writing lyrics and music, the work they're producing now, and the difference between being dumb and being dumb on purpose. Also included: Andy's Beetlejuice impression. Get tickets for The Lonely Island's summer tour. Seriously. Go find tickets right now! Watch The Unauthorized Bash Brothers Experience on Netflix, and listen to the accompanying album wherever you get your music. Read Jesse's piece on The Lonely Island's first-ever show here.

James Corden's Crosswalk the Musical

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 07:00:00 -0000

James Corden is the host of The Late Late Show on CBS. He and Jesse walk through the history of one of the show's recurring segments, Crosswalk the Musical which is...well...a musical in a crosswalk. Initially a performance of Grease in front of The Late Late Show's Los Angeles studios, the segment spread to the streets of London and New York City and featured hit musicals like The Sound of Music, Hair, and Beauty and the Beast, to name a few. James recounts some behind the scenes stories and talks about the spirit of The Late Late Show. Follow James on Twitter and watch him on The Late Late Show weeknights at 12:37a/11:37pC on CBS Also included: Late Late Show Head Writer Ian Karmel looks back on pitching Crosswalk the Musical.

Beth Stelling's Wet 'n Wild

Mon, 27 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

In Good One's Season 6 premiere, comedian Beth Stelling breaks down a joke from her first album Sweet Beth. The joke is about a trip Beth took to the Florida water park Wet 'n Wild with her father and siblings. Beth points out what she likes and doesn't like about the joke, and how her performance of it changed since recording the album. Beth talks about the specificity of her worda and the shorthand on her set-lists. Also included: Beth sings. Catch Beth live by checking out the dates on her website. See Beth live at Littlefield in Brooklyn on June 2nd, and Dynasty Typewriter in LA on June 19th. Listen to Beth and her mom on their podcast We Called Your Mom, and watch her half-hour special on Netflix's The Standups. Follow Beth on Twitter @bethstelling

(BONUS) Happy Endings Reunion

Mon, 20 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

What miracle is this? Audio once forgotten and buried within the darkest recesses of Vulture's dungeons has found its way back to the light. Jesse hosts a live panel with the stars and creators of the cult-classic TV show Happy Endings. Recorded live at the 2016 Brooklyn Vulturefest, this panel features creator David Caspe and showrunner Jonathan Groff, along with the cast members:Eliza Coupe (Jane)Elisha Cuthbert (Alex)Zachary Knighton (Dave)Adam Pally (Max)Damon Wayans Jr. (Brad)Casey Wilson (Penny)The panel guests go through their favorite episodes, the show's beginnings, and what went into making the most memorable scenes of the series. Also included: hypothetical storylines for a Happy Endings revival. Stream Happy Endings on Hulu or wherever else you get TV.

(BONUS) Clone High Reunion

Mon, 13 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Jesse leads a live panel discussion with the cast and creators of the cult-classic MTV animated series Clone High. The show itself, co-created by Phil Lord, Chris Miller, and Bill Lawrence, was about a high school filled with clones of famous historical figures. Despite its cancelation after only one season, the show had a cast list full of up-and-comers and established stars of its time, including Will Forte, Phil Lord, Chris Miller, Michael MacDonald, Christa Miller, Nicole Sullivan, Donald Faison, Neil Flynn, Andy Dick, Zach Braff, Sarah Chalke, Jack Black, Tom Green, Michael J. Fox, Mandy Moore, Marilyn Manson...the list will go on forever if I keep typing. Recorded live at Vulturefest in 2017, the live panel included:Chris Miller (JFK, Vice Principal Mr. Butlertron)Phil Lord (Principal Scudworth, Genghis Khan,Bill Lawrence (Co-Creator)Nicole Sullivan (Joan of Arc)Christa Miller (Cleopatra)Will Forte (Abe Lincoln)Michael McDonald (Gandhi)Watch Clone High wherever you can legally download TV shows. There are a lot of great clips on YouTube, too.

(BONUS) Catherine Cohen's Dreams

Mon, 06 May 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Here's another bonus episode as we lead up to our Season 6 premiere! Jesse interviews comedian Catherine Cohen live at Union Hall in Brooklyn, following a musical tribute to her totally normal and not-at-all-bizarre dreams. Follow Catherine on Twitter. Listen to Catherine on the Seek Treatment podcast, and catch her solo show at Joe's Pub in NYC on May 15th, June 17th and July 11th.

(BONUS) Las Culturistas's I Don't Think So, Honey!

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000

This week we're going back to the 2018 Brooklyn Podcast Festival for a short interview Jesse did with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, AKA Las Culturistas. Matt and Bowen each demonstrate an "I Don't Think So, Honey!" or their cathartic, one-minute cultural rant turned art form. Listen to Las Culturistas wherever you get podcasts.

Kevin Hart's Kids Walk in on Him Having Sex

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Good One Season 5 comes to a close with another superstar comedian, Kevin Hart. Jesse takes a trip to Atlanta to speak with Kevin just before the release of his newest stand-up special Irresponsible. They discuss the show's opener, a story about when Kevin's kids caught him having sex. Kevin explains how his jokes go from from small clubs to arenas. The conversation also touches on some of the controversy surrounding his comedy, as well as the high expectations he's striving to execute at his level of fame. Also included: potpourri. Watch “Irresponsible” on Netflix on April 2nd, along with all of Kevin’s other specials. Follow Kevin on Twitter. Special thanks to DonTaé Hodge for engineering this episode.

Gary Gulman's Trader Joe's

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 07:00:00 -0000

Jesse finally sits down with Gary Gulman to talk about a joke from his 2016 special It’s About Time. The joke is about an experience Gary had at Trader Joe’s, but it’s way, waaaaaaaay bigger than that. Gary takes his audience through TJ’s snack selection and into Narnia, making companions of old women on the Upper West Side, finally culminating in a rumination on the nature of New Yorkers and taking a stand when injustice rears its ugly head. Jesse and Gary dissect this joke from start to finish, picking apart word choice down to the syllable. Gary reflects on the inciting incident, as well as how his mental illness plays a part in the whole thing. Also included: someone finally tells Jesse how his tweets could be better. For all of Gary’s tips, follow Gary on Twitter, and catch him live on the The Great Depresh Tour when he’s in your city.

The Good Place Writers Panel

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In Fall 2018, we recorded a live panel discussion with the writers of The Good Place at Vulturefest LA. Moderated by Marc Evan Jackson, the panel guests reveal what comedy inspired them, how their writers room was formed, and offer advice to aspiring writers. Watch The Good Place on NBC, Hulu, Netflix, or a bunch of other places on the internet. Listen to The Good Place: The Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow [most of] the panel on Twitter:Marc Evan JacksonMike SchurMegan AmramJen StatskyJosh SiegalDylan MorganMatt Murray Cord JeffersonKassia MillerDan SchofieldAndrew LawChristopher EncellRae Sanni

Rhea Butcher's Flight Attendants and Lyft Drivers

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

Jesse speaks to standup comic, actor, and writer Rhea Butcher about two versions of their joke about being misgendered. The first iteration comes from Rhea's album Butcher, and the second was performed on one of Jessica Williams and Phoebe Robinson's 2 Dope Queens HBO specials. Rhea goes over the similarities and differences between each telling, along with how their identity and experiences shaped the joke's evolution. Follow Rhea on Twitter Listen to Rhea's podcasts Three Swings and Put Your Hands Together Listen to Rhea's special Butcher wherever you listen to things.

Lil Rel’s Can I Have, I Want

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 06:00:00 -0000

Jesse speaks with actor, comedian, writer and producer Lil Rel Howery live at Vulturefest in October 2018. The conversation centers around a joke Rel told on Martin Lawrence's 1st Amendment Stand Up in 2010, and ties into material from his 2015 stand-up special RELevent. Rel discusses family, his hometown Chicago, and the comedians that shaped him, like Bernie Mac and Robin Harris. Watch Rel in Rel on FOX. Follow Rel on Twitter.

The Lucas Brothers' History of Western Philosophy

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 06:00:00 -0000

Kenny and Keith Lucas, aka comedy duo The Lucas Brothers, sit down with Jesse to discuss a joke-in-progress about Bertrand Russell's A History of Western Philosophy. The two reflect on their relationship as brothers, identical twins, writing partners, travel companions, and performers while musing on the intersection of comedy and philosophy. Watch the Lucas Brothers' special on Netflix.

Seth Meyers's Juan Likes Rice and Chicken

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 06:00:00 -0000

Jesse’s back in the Late Night with Seth Meyers conference room with—wait for it—Seth Meyers! While there's plenty to talk about, the conversation centers around Seth writing the Documentary Now! episode Juan Likes Rice and Chicken. The two touch on Seth's parodies from when he was Head Writer at Saturday Night Live, along with his semi-autobiographical ties to Juan and Arturo. Also included: Seth is unable to make Jesse’s tweets any better than they already are. Season 3 of Documentary Now! starts February 20th, airing Wednesdays on IFC at 11p EST Late Night With Seth Meyers airs weeknights on NBC at 12:35/11:35c Follow Seth on Twitter

Ray Romano's Son Joe

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 06:00:00 -0000

Ray Romano sits down with Jesse to talk about his new Netflix special, Right Here, Around the Corner. The two go over Ray’s jokes about his son Joe, why he continues to see his family as a source of new material, and what made the Comedy Cellar the right place to tape his new special. Also, Ray does an impression of an impression of Ray Romano. Watch Ray’s new special on Netflix.

Saturday Night Live's Totino's Ad Trilogy

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 06:00:00 -0000

It’s sequel time! Sort of. On a Good One episode from way back in the year 2018, Jesse asked Vanessa Bayer about Saturday Night Live's series of ad parodies for Totino’s pizza rolls. What started as a take on gender stereotypes in advertising evolved over the next two years into a surreal X-Files promo, and ultimately a triumphant, French romance film trailer. Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider are the former SNL head writers behind the Totino’s Trilogy. Jesse talks to them about the evolution of Vanessa’s nameless character, and draws parallels to Chris and Sarah’s new series The Other Two. Highly recommended: watching the Totino’s Ad Trilogy. Part IPart IIPart IIIFollow Chris on Twitter! Sarah never uses Twitter. Watch Chris and Sarah's show The Other Two on Comedy Central, Thursdays at 10:30/9:30c

Julie Klausner's Roast Beef Sandwich

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 06:00:00 -0000

Jesse talks to actor, comedian, writer, and friend Julie Klausner about a seemingly random joke from her Hulu series Difficult People. Recorded live at Union Hall in Brooklyn, the two talk about equal treatment of male and female genitalia in comedy, Julie’s writing process on Difficult People, and much, much, much more. ALSO: a super secret surprise guest. ALSO ALSO: get ready to find out if your favorite sketch comedians are dogs or cats. Watch Difficult People on Hulu.Follow Julie on Twitter

Sebastian Maniscalco's Doorbell

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 06:00:00 -0000

Jesse talks to comedian Sebastian Maniscalco about the creation of one of his most well-known jokes, “Doorbell”. Not only does Sebastian have a new Netflix special out, but at the time of the interview he was days away from headlining a weekend of stand-up shows at Madison Square Garden. Listen to how Sebastian refined his act-outs, and how nostalgia and disbelief came to shape his comedy. Watch Sebastian’s act outs to get a full picture of "Doorbell".Check out the interior of Sebastian and wife Lana Gomez’s house. Watch Sebastian’s new standup special “Stay Hungry” on Netflix.

Nicole Byer's Fat Jokes

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 06:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to Good One. We missed you dearly. For our Season 5 premiere, comedian, actress, and improviser Nicole Byer invited Jesse over to talk about the opening jokes of her new Netflix special, Aggressively Adorable. For more Nicole check out Comedians of the World and Nailed It! on Netflix and listen to her on What the Tuck? A RuPaul's Drag Race Podcast and Why Won't You Date Me? wherever you listen to podcasts.

Sinbad Doesn’t Write Jokes

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 06:00:00 -0000

With all of his standup specials, records, and multiple roles in TV and film, Sinbad has no shortage of material to dissect. But when Jesse reached out to to ask what joke Sinbad wanted to discuss on the podcast, Sinbad didn’t want to pick one. Why? Because he doesn’t write his act in the way that most other comedians do. Sinbad will build an entire routine from a fleeting thought in the moment while he’s on-stage—and it will change the course of the performance in an instant. Jesse and Sinbad trace his style back to its roots, and Jesse also gets closure on a Sinbad question he’s been holding onto for a long time. This week's episode is sponsored by Mack Weldon! For 20% off your first order, visit mackweldon.com and enter promo code GOODONE at checkout!

Rachel Bloom’s Space Jam

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Years before creating and starring in the show Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Rachel Bloom wrote and performed a musical sketch about a young actress’s obsession with Space Jam, the 1996 animated and live-action crossover starring Michael Jordan and a bunch of Looney Tunes. Jesse and Rachel talk about the compromise she made between musical theater and sketch comedy. Along the way they discuss the importance of nailing down a premise when writing, how rhyming can ruin a joke’s potential, and most importantly, why Space Jam? Watch Rachel’s “Space Jam” here, and read along with the lyrics below. “Space Jam” Lyrics I'VE NEVER FOUND A TRUE CALLING I WOULDN'T CALL THEATER MY LIFE FROM VOCATION TO VOCATION LOCATION TO LOCATION I'M JUST LOOKING FOR SOMETHING ENTHRALLING. (spoken) It's true. I'VE NEVER HAD MY OWN "THING" UNREMARKABLE: A COMMUNISTS' DREAM. BUT THERE IS ONE MOVIE THAT'S JUST SO DAMN GROOVY IT GIVES ME A REASON TO SING. AND THAT IS THE MOVIE SPACE JAM! OH MY GOD I LOVE THE MOVIE SPACE JAM! HAS ANYONE ELSE HERE SEEN SPACE JAM?! ALLOW ME TO DESCRIBE THE PLOT OF SPACE JAM! THE SETTING IS CIRCA 1996 AN INNOCENT AGE, I RECALL. MICHAEL JORDAN GOT HIMSELF IN A FIX 'CAUSE NOW HE PLAYS MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL. MEANWHILE, ON A PLANET FAR OFF IN SPACE SOME CARTOON ALIENS HAVE AN AMUSEMENT PARK BUSINESS IS BAD, THEY'RE GONNA SHUT DOWN THE PLACE TILL THE ALIEN CEO HAS A GENIUS SPARK! (spoken) He's voiced by Danny DeVito. THE PLAN IS TO KIDNAP THE LOONEY TUNES WHO IN THIS FILM ARE SELF-AWARE AND HAVE FREE WILL AND ONCE THE ALIENS KIDNAP THE LOONEY TUNES THEY'LL ENSLAVE THEM TO CREATE A COMEDY MILL! (spoken) Now at this point, you're probably like, "What do cartoon aliens kidnapping Looney Tunes have to do with Michael Jordan?" Well that's the magic of- SPACE JAM! MUCH MORE HAPPENS IN THE MOVIE SPACE JAM! AREN'T YOU STARTING TO GET EMOTIONALLY INVOLVED WITH SPACE JAM?! RAISE YOUR HAND IF YOU WANNA HEAR MORE ABOUT SPACE JAM! ZACH (V.O.) I'd actually prefer if you stopped. RACHEL Oh, come on! ZACH (V.O.) I want to hear about something EMOTIONAL. RACHEL Ok, fine. I'll talk about the time I came out of the closet instead, ok? ZACH (V.O.) Uh, yeah, that'd be great. RACHEL Ok. Well, when I first realized I was gay, I thought that no girl would ever- (singing again) SO THESE TINY CARTOON ALIENS GO TO LOONEY TUNE LAND/ AND GET LAUGHED AT 'CAUSE THEY'RE SO SMALL/ HA HA HA! ZACH (V.O.) OK, that's not what I meant... RACHEL THE LOONEY TUNES WANNA DEFEND THEMSELVES SO THEY CHALLENGE THEM TO A GAME OF BASKETBALL BUT THEN THE ALIENS TO GO A BASKETBALL GAME TO STEAL THE TALENTS OF THE PLAYERS IN THE NBA AND THEN THEY BECOME MONSTERS- NO- MONSTARS! WHICH MAKES THE LOONEY TUNES DESPERATE IN A MAJOR WAY! (spoken) And then, one day Michael Jordan is playing golf with Larry Bird and Bill Murray and he gets sucked down a golf hole. And this is when you're like "Oh man, this movie just got intense. I might have to leave the theater it's so intense!" And when Michael Jordan gets to Looney Tunes Land, he's surprisingly calm for what just happened to him, dubious really, because he just says, "What are you guys doing here?" SO THE LOONEY TUNES TELL MICHAEL THAT THEY'RE GONNA BE SLAVES UNLESS HE HELPS THEM WIN MICHAEL AGREES LIKE THE MENSCH HE IS AND SO THEY START PRACTICIN' FOR THE- ZACH (V.O.) Stop! Stop! RACHEL What? ZACH (V.O.) You're just singing the plot of the movie Space Jam! RACHEL It's really important to me! ZACH (V.O.) Yes, but why? Why is "Space Jam" so important to you? RACHEL WHEN I WAS 5 MY DADDY LEFT AND MY MOMMA WAS ADDICTED TO COKE SO I JOINED A GROUP OF RUNAWAY KIDS WHO WERE JUST AS SAD AND BROKE. THEN ONE NIGHT, THIS BOY NAMED JAKE GAVE ME MY FIRST KISS. BUT THE DAY AFTER THAT, HE DIED OF AIDS MAKING ME ASSOCIATE SICKNESS WITH BLISS. AFTER GOING ON A 3 DAY METH BINGE I DECIDED TO KILL MYSELF WHEN SUDDENLY, LIKE AN ANGEL, LIKE A BEACON I SAW THE POSTER FOR "SPACE JAM." AND THAT'S WHEN I REALIZED: IF LOONEY TUNES CAN PLAY BASKETBALL WHO SAYS I CAN'T QUIT DRUGS? IF TINY ALIENS CAN BE LARGE AND SCARY THEN I CAN PUT MYSELF BACK TOGETHER. EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE IN "SPACE JAM" SO EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE FOR ME. I WAS ABOUT TO JUMP IN FRONT OF A TRAIN. WHEN "SPACE JAM" ENDED MY PAIN.

Laurie Kilmartin’s Conan Set

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Laurie Kilmartin is a stand-up comedian and writer for Conan. She's also cohost of the podcast The Jackie and Laurie Show along with comedian Jackie Kashian. Laurie discusses the formation of her 2017 Conan set, finding a new muse 20-years into her career, and how to know when to inform the audience that “Domingo” is Spanish for “Sunday”. Read Laurie’s tweet about joke transitions here.

Mike Birbiglia’s Celebrity Golf

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Mike Birbiglia cemented his style of comedic storytelling in specials like Sleepwalk With Me, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend, and Thank God For Jokes. He’s also the writer and director of Don’t Think Twice and the movie adaptation of Sleepwalk With Me. Now, his latest show, The New One, is running on Broadway. In this episode, we’re talking about an earlier one of Mike’s jokes—his Celebrity Golf story, from the album My Secret Public Journal Live. Mike describes how he identifies moments from his life that become his jokes, how to align with an audience, and the inherent error that has to exist in a piece of art.

Kenan Thompson’s Lavar Ball Impression

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Kenan Thompson and collaborator Bryan Tucker have been working on SNL together for years. In August 2017, they debuted Kenan’s take on NBA personality Lavar Ball. It went over so well that the impression returned for three additional Weekend Updates. Jesse asks Kenan and Bryan about how they come up with their best work that spans 16 seasons of SNL.

Max Silvestri Tells Leah Beckmann's Upstate Cabin Story

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Comedian Max Silvestri and writer Leah Beckmann have been together for seven years. They have a dog. For years Max hosted the New York alt-comedy showcase Big Terrific, which Leah had been to a couple of times before approaching Max on the subway to say hi. Fast forward to today, when Jesse sits down with the couple to discuss what it’s like to be written about as a significant other, the vetting process for relationship jokes, and why buttholes work when assholes don’t. Watch Max on Netflix’s The Comedy Lineup and see his work on Big Mouth. Read and watch Leah’s work on The Cut, Gawker, and Cartoon Network’s Summer Camp Island.

Nikki Glaser Roasts Bruce Willis

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 04:01:00 -0000

Chris Gethard’s Mother’s Day

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 05:00:00 -0000

Jesse and Chris Gethard discuss the transition from improviser to stand-up comedian, and then dissect the quintessential “Gethard Joke.” Chris recounts wrapping The Chris Gethard Show, his ambitious HBO special Career Suicide, and what’s problematic about applying the idea of “swim at your own risk” to live comedy.

Phoebe Robinson’s Julia Roberts Swimming Lesson

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Comedian, actress, and author Phoebe Robinson (2 Dope Queens, You Can’t Touch My Hair, Ibiza) talks Jesse through getting a swimming lesson from Julia Roberts on the Adriatic sea—what she calls one of her life’s “Non-Trash Moments” in her forthcoming book Everything’s Trash, But It’s Okay. Phoebe explains her writing process, along with her love for abbreviations, typos, and mixed metaphors.

Nick Kroll’s Big Mouth Shame-Filled Dirty Talk

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 07:12:00 -0000

In the Season 4 premiere of Good One, Nick Kroll discusses the difference between shame and guilt and how both concepts factor into writing a show like Big Mouth, which returned October 5th for its second season on Netflix.

Aparna Nancherla’s Anxiety

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 04:00:00 -0000

In the season finale of Good One, Jesse and Aparna Nancherla (Just Putting It Out There, Comedy Central's Corporate, Netflix's The Standups) discuss how depression and anxiety came to be a part of her act, how her jokes about mental health have been received over time, and the inherent stress of interacting with babies.

Will Forte's The Last Man on Earth Ending

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Jesse talks to Will about the Last Man on Earth’s final scene, the show’s journey, and what would have come next if the show hadn't been cancelled. Recorded live in Montreal at the 2018 Just for Laughs Festival.

Naomi Ekperigin's First Late Night Set

Mon, 23 Jul 2018 04:00:00 -0000

New York based Naomi Ekperigin is quickly becoming an influential voice in modern comedy. She’s worked as a staff writer for Broad City and Great News, and was listed as one of the "20 Comedians You Should and Will Know" by Vulture. Jesse talks to Naomi about a joke from her most recent set on Late Night with Seth Meyers. Learn how Naomi crafted her tight 5 for late night, how she writes comedy conversationally, and the application process behind booking a spot on Seth Meyers.

Reggie Watts Comes Up with a New Song

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Reggie Watts doesn't write jokes. With nothing but a microphone and some looping pedals, he crafts one-of-a-kind musical improv comedy. So on this special episode of Good One, Reggie improvises a song in the studio and we break down his process. He explains his love for improv over scripted comedy, his passion for science and technology, and shares his experiences making music on different drugs and psychedelics.

Vanessa Bayer's Jacob the Bar Mitzvah Boy

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Vanessa Bayer stops in to discuss the creation of her character Jacob the Bar Mitzvah Boy. She talks about her formative years of comedy, Judaism, and how the process of writing a subtle and specific character evolved each time Jacob returned.

Bo Burnham's Can't Handle This

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 04:00:00 -0000

This week Bo Burnham, writer and director of the feature Eight Grade, was interviewed live at Vulturefest. Vulture senior editor Jesse David Fox and Bo discuss his auto-tuned rant that closed out Burnham's Netflix special titled 'Make Happy.' They dissect Bo's relationship to audience, comedy, authenticity and performance- and how that informed his vision as he makes his directorial debut. This week's episode is brought to you by Spotify!

Jimmy Fallon's Do Not Play

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Jimmy Fallon drops by to talk about his bit 'Do Not Play,' sharing songs so bad that you just have to listen to them. Fallon discusses finding his calling with the Tonight Show, a variety show and an institution, with the mission of putting a smile on your face before bed. He delves into the value of a silly bit inside of a show like his and reflects on his career, now and for the next twenty years. This episode is brought to you by Spotify!

Patton Oswalt's Polish Woman of Doom

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 04:00:00 -0000

Patton Oswalt talks about the process of writing comedy in the face of real and personal tragedy. Oswalt's passion for crafting jokes, turns of phrase, and the way in which he talks about the world were thrown into intense perspective as he dealt with the loss of his wife, and the responsibility to care for his also grieving daughter.

Trevor Noah’s Daily Show

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 04:00:00 -0000

In a special edition of Good One recorded live at Clusterfest, host Jesse David Fox discusses the process of creating the Daily Show with a panel of writers including Trevor Noah, Dulce Sloan, Michael Costa, Desi Lydic, Ronny Chang, Roy Wood Jr. This week's episode is sponsored by Spotify!

David Cross's Squagels

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 04:44:31 -0000

David Cross breaks down a joke from early in his career about the fast casual chain COSI's attempt to make the bagel 'cool.' He discusses balancing material between the silly, serious, and political, as well his his relationship to the South.

Cameron Esposito's Rape Joke

Mon, 28 May 2018 05:00:00 -0000

Cameron Esposito discusses a joke about the misrepresentation of sexual assault in popular culture. In this interview with Jesse David Fox, Cameron speaks to the challenge of sharing her own experience, drawing the audience in, and creating a space to perform the kind of material that confronts through humor.

John Mulaney's One Hundred Million Dollars

Mon, 21 May 2018 12:00:00 -0000

Welcome to season 3 of Good One! Kid Gorgeous a.k.a. John Mulaney stops by to break down a joke in defense of financiers. John shares how he found his stride in an 'old timey' voice, expands on his fascination with OJ Simpson, and talks about how working on Oh Hello influenced his writing style.

Pete Holmes’s Green Eggs and Ham

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 05:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox talks to Pete Holmes about a joke from his 2016 special Faces & Sounds. They talk about Pete's "spidey sense" as a comedian, why anger can be a great cue, and more.

Wyatt Cenac's Black History Month

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In this live taped episode of Good One, Jesse talks to Wyatt Cenac about his Black History Month joke, which appears on his last album, Furry Dumb Fighter. Hear about Wyatt's writing process, why he often uses comic books as a source of material, and how he feels about including the n-word in his work.

Natasha Leggero’s Burning Man

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Jesse David Fox and Natasha Leggero deconstruct a joke from her 2015 Comedy Central special. They talk about Burning Man, her process of trial and error, and how her persona has evolved over time.

Bill Burr's Definition of Bravery

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In this live taped episode of Good One, Jesse talks to Bill Burr about a joke from his most recent special Walk Your Way Out. Hear how a trip to India helped shape that joke, what Bill thinks about doing characters, and how he manages his relationship with offended audience members.

Eugene Mirman's Portsmouth, New Hampshire Complaint Letter

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 05:00:00 -0000

In this live taped episode of Good One from the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival, Jesse speaks with Eugene Mirman about his joke -- which is a real letter published in the Portsmouth, New Hampshire summer guide.

Paul Feig's Spy Knife Fight

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 09:00:00 -0000

In this live episode of Good One from Vulture Festival LA, Jesse speaks with Paul Feig about a fight scene from his movie Spy, why he works best with women and the trials of editing a film.

Saturday Night Live's "Wells for Boys"

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 05:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox talks to Julio Torres and Jeremy Beiler, the writers behind the Saturday Night Live sketch “Wells for Boys.” In this episode, you'll hear how it came together, how it was received in the studio, and whether political art is the only art that matters.

Jeff Garlin Refuses to Pick a Joke

Mon, 27 Nov 2017 05:00:00 -0000

Jesse sits with Jeff Garlin for a somewhat flipped version of Good One. Jeff didn’t feel he’d be a right fit for the show as he's not one for dissecting his process. Hear why that is, why he thinks Eddie Murphy is the Babe Ruth of standup, and about making the latest season of Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Will Forte's MacGruber Sex Scenes

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Jesse speaks with Will Forte about what it was like to make the sex scenes in MacGruber (the SNL Macgyver parody turned '80s action movie) movie.

Tim Minchin's "Stuck"

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Tim Minchin created the music for the musical Groundhog Day. He joins Jesse David Fox to talk about the musical and about one song in particular called "Stuck." Plus he plays a us little keyboard.

Moshe Kasher's Personal Hell (It's Heaven)

Mon, 08 May 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox and Moshe Kasher deconstruct a joke about heaven from Moshe's 2013 Live From Oakland special-- It's a bit that's evolved over time, as he first tried a much shorter version of the joke on his 2009 album. They talk about religion, Moshe's new show Problematic on Comedy Central, and how he mastered the art of "highbrow-lowbrow."

John Early's Wedding Toast

Mon, 01 May 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox and John Early recorded a special, live episode of Good One during SXSW at TBS's In Search Of Pop-Up. John picked a scene from his episode of Characters on Netflix, in which he is giving a wedding toast and hijacks the room for way too long. He breaks down why he chose to play this type of character, why he loves upstate New York, and closes with he next best impersonation. (His best is Britney.)

Dear White People's Shonda Rhimes Parody

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox sits down with Justin Simien, the director of the movie Dear White People and creator of the new TV show premiering on Netflix this month. They talk about a scene from the first episode in which a group of students are gathering to watch Defamation a parody of Shonda Rhimes' Scandal. Simien offers thoughts on his process, the benefits of adapting the movie to television and how the show fits into today's political landscape.

What It's Like to Write Jokes for Barack Obama

Mon, 17 Apr 2017 06:00:00 -0000

David Litt is the former senior presidential speechwriter for President Obama and he wrote his jokes, too. On this Good One, Litt shares about what it's like to write for the former president, why Obama is pretty good at delivering jokes and how they finally managed to incorporate Keegan-Michael Key's character of Luther, Obama's anger translater, into the White House Correspondence dinner.

Horatio Sanz's Don's Apothecary Sketch

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 06:32:00 -0000

Horatio Sanz debuted his "Don's Apothecary" sketch during his fifth year on SNL. He sits down with Jesse David Fox to talk about the inspiration for the sketch, his SNL days and why he sometimes laughs at his own jokes.

Kyle Kinane Wakes Up in the Morning and Believes in Himself

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 07:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox and Kyle Kinane talk about a joke from Kyle's 2010 special Death of the Party and how it was so pivotal in his stand-up career. And we highly recommend staying for this laughning round.

Paul Scheer and Human Giant's "Illusionators"

Mon, 13 Mar 2017 04:00:00 -0000

Paul Scheer explains the inspiration behind creating the sketch series "The Illusionators," which appeared on MTV's Human Giant. Scheer created the show with Aziz Ansari, Rob Huebel, and Jason Woliner. Plus, hear the story about how Paul and Aziz encountered Criss Angel at a Las Vegas club.

Kristen Schaal and Her Singing, Dancing Bird

Mon, 27 Feb 2017 05:00:00 -0000

Kristen Schaal joins Jesse David Fox to talk about the origins of one of her earliest jokes Dancing Bird. She shares why she often uses animals in her comedy and what it was like to break out as a stand-up comic using conceptual bits.

Neal Brennan's White Guy Being Called the N-Word While Feeding a Horse Joke

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 19:00:00 -0000

Host Jesse David Fox and Neal Brennan talk about a joke Neal wrote for Half Baked and how it's representative of his early career writing for the Chapelle's Show, and Neal shares about his new stand-up special on Netflix 3 Mics.

Jim Gaffigan and His Good Looking Newscasters Joke

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 05:00:00 -0000

Jesse David Fox sits down with Jim Gaffigan to break down a joke from Jim’s Netflix special Cinco about newscasters and how they’re so good looking.