Liz Feldman

It means so much to me. I am a, you know, obviously longtime fan of the show that you're on. It's called Saturday Night Live. And, you know, I've been watching it since I was a young child, but you are such... a fucking bright light on that show and truly listen to her. And I just, you're fucking brilliant. Thank you.

It means so much to me. I am a, you know, obviously longtime fan of the show that you're on. It's called Saturday Night Live. And, you know, I've been watching it since I was a young child, but you are such... a fucking bright light on that show and truly listen to her. And I just, you're fucking brilliant. Thank you.

But when you get behind that weekend update desk, like I just, I like lean forward.

But when you get behind that weekend update desk, like I just, I like lean forward.

I get the proverbial popcorn out. I know it's going to be fucking great.

I get the proverbial popcorn out. I know it's going to be fucking great.

But that is, I mean, it's true. Nothing's perfect.

But that is, I mean, it's true. Nothing's perfect.

Yeah, but you never fail because you're you.

Yeah, but you never fail because you're you.

I did. I did. Well, I thought there was a very handsome guy on the red carpet. I thought there was just a real fucking star on the red carpet. By the way, his audition, just to go back to that for a second, I want you to know where that audition came from because we were, I had written the part, we were casting the show, couldn't find the guy at first.

I did. I did. Well, I thought there was a very handsome guy on the red carpet. I thought there was just a real fucking star on the red carpet. By the way, his audition, just to go back to that for a second, I want you to know where that audition came from because we were, I had written the part, we were casting the show, couldn't find the guy at first.

We were looking in, I don't know where the hell we were looking, but couldn't find him. And in the middle of the night, I shit you not. I was like, cause this is, I'm a weird, like I wake up with ideas kind of person. It was like three o'clock in the morning and I shot up out of bed and I was like, it's Matt Rogers.

We were looking in, I don't know where the hell we were looking, but couldn't find him. And in the middle of the night, I shit you not. I was like, cause this is, I'm a weird, like I wake up with ideas kind of person. It was like three o'clock in the morning and I shot up out of bed and I was like, it's Matt Rogers.

The spirit moved me. It was like somebody whispered in my ear and then I couldn't shake it. And then of course you nailed the audition and.

The spirit moved me. It was like somebody whispered in my ear and then I couldn't shake it. And then of course you nailed the audition and.

Yeah, Clay on the Mound, I'm interested in.

Yeah, Clay on the Mound, I'm interested in.

Well, it is. Well, if I'm just a person person, I like... People. I like to sit in here. I mean, I love the fact that we're doing this in person and not on Zoom. And so, yeah, I really do miss the interpersonal stuff that you get. Also, I used to be an actor.

Well, it is. Well, if I'm just a person person, I like... People. I like to sit in here. I mean, I love the fact that we're doing this in person and not on Zoom. And so, yeah, I really do miss the interpersonal stuff that you get. Also, I used to be an actor.

So I know what it's like to go in that room and, you know, be nervous or unsure of the choice you're making. And then the people are there looking at you. It's so vulnerable.

So I know what it's like to go in that room and, you know, be nervous or unsure of the choice you're making. And then the people are there looking at you. It's so vulnerable.

So I at least want to be there for the people to be like, hey, I got you. It's fine. We'll work on it. We'll do it. So thank you for doing that from your bathroom on Zoom.

So I at least want to be there for the people to be like, hey, I got you. It's fine. We'll work on it. We'll do it. So thank you for doing that from your bathroom on Zoom.

I mean, that was, you know, all the talk. First of all, you were incredible in the show and what a great improviser. So many of his best lines were from your head to your mouth, not from my little typey typey.

I mean, that was, you know, all the talk. First of all, you were incredible in the show and what a great improviser. So many of his best lines were from your head to your mouth, not from my little typey typey.

When you have Matt Rogers, you're going to let him do his thing.

When you have Matt Rogers, you're going to let him do his thing.

I would say you wrote probably half your lines, if not more.

I would say you wrote probably half your lines, if not more.

But like it just...

But like it just...

I mean, you get to see Matt Rogers with Lisa Kudrow, Ray Romano. I mean, it's pretty amazing.

I mean, you get to see Matt Rogers with Lisa Kudrow, Ray Romano. I mean, it's pretty amazing.

Well, that was every single famous person in the entire universe was there.

Well, that was every single famous person in the entire universe was there.

Stop. Wow.

Stop. Wow.

I mean, that's, she puts the pop in pop culture.

I mean, that's, she puts the pop in pop culture.

She is the New York woman. Do you know what I mean? Absolutely.

She is the New York woman. Do you know what I mean? Absolutely.

I mean, I asked you, I'm like asking for that. I'm sucking the names out of it really. But you with Kudrow and with- I mean, listen, it's almost like, it's not even that I get, sometimes I get starstruck. Most of the time I know I'm going to see the person. Like if it's a surprise, if it's like I'm running into them at a party and they're like, I listened to your podcast. Like that's different.

I mean, I asked you, I'm like asking for that. I'm sucking the names out of it really. But you with Kudrow and with- I mean, listen, it's almost like, it's not even that I get, sometimes I get starstruck. Most of the time I know I'm going to see the person. Like if it's a surprise, if it's like I'm running into them at a party and they're like, I listened to your podcast. Like that's different.

That's like, you know, like sending a, like a sweet shiv down my spine, you know? But- Like with Lisa Kudrow, I had been watching Friends every night and her name came up in casting. And I was like, but I watch her on my TV. I was very excited to meet her. But then I know that I have to present myself as a leader. And thank you so much for what you said. That's very, very kind to say.

That's like, you know, like sending a, like a sweet shiv down my spine, you know? But- Like with Lisa Kudrow, I had been watching Friends every night and her name came up in casting. And I was like, but I watch her on my TV. I was very excited to meet her. But then I know that I have to present myself as a leader. And thank you so much for what you said. That's very, very kind to say.

But I know I have to like, you know, I have to be confident when I meet her and not treat her like she's this thing that is unattainable to me because then why would she want to work with?

But I know I have to like, you know, I have to be confident when I meet her and not treat her like she's this thing that is unattainable to me because then why would she want to work with?

I'll tell you, this is a true story this morning. I'm getting ready. Cause I, one of my, the great parts about my job, especially when I'm in development on like a new thing is that I get to sit and meet actors and they just like, you know, like they just go, do you want to meet so-and-so? And I go, yeah, it's like going on like a lunch date with the most random, wonderful people.

I'll tell you, this is a true story this morning. I'm getting ready. Cause I, one of my, the great parts about my job, especially when I'm in development on like a new thing is that I get to sit and meet actors and they just like, you know, like they just go, do you want to meet so-and-so? And I go, yeah, it's like going on like a lunch date with the most random, wonderful people.

So this morning I'm getting ready to have breakfast with Pamela Anderson.

So this morning I'm getting ready to have breakfast with Pamela Anderson.

She's, and I don't use this word often, a queen.

She's, and I don't use this word often, a queen.

And I'm looking at myself in the mirror and I don't have makeup on. And I'm like, you know what? She's not going to wear makeup. I know that that's her thing. So I'm like, you know, do I show up at breakfast with Pamela Anderson with no makeup on? And I take one look at myself in the mirror and I go, you know what? I'm not working from the same baseline as Pamela Anderson.

And I'm looking at myself in the mirror and I don't have makeup on. And I'm like, you know what? She's not going to wear makeup. I know that that's her thing. So I'm like, you know, do I show up at breakfast with Pamela Anderson with no makeup on? And I take one look at myself in the mirror and I go, you know what? I'm not working from the same baseline as Pamela Anderson.

And I was like, spackle it on, spackle it on.

And I was like, spackle it on, spackle it on.

She doesn't, but I wanted to feel like I was presentable. So I did put some makeup on and I was still like a 14th as gorgeous as she is.

She doesn't, but I wanted to feel like I was presentable. So I did put some makeup on and I was still like a 14th as gorgeous as she is.

I wasn't trying to be like, let's collaborate on something maybe, you know, but like I do sit in awe is what I'll say. Like I'm not maybe struck, but I sit in like complete respect and awe of people who, especially like her, people who have been through the fucking ringer because of pop culture, because of our thirst for,

I wasn't trying to be like, let's collaborate on something maybe, you know, but like I do sit in awe is what I'll say. Like I'm not maybe struck, but I sit in like complete respect and awe of people who, especially like her, people who have been through the fucking ringer because of pop culture, because of our thirst for,

for her fame and her gorgeousness and the way in which society has objectified her over and over again and truly turned her into an object. And let me tell you, she's fucking brilliant. She's so smart. She's way better read than I am. She's making references and I'm nodding like I know what she's talking about. No idea what she's talking about.

for her fame and her gorgeousness and the way in which society has objectified her over and over again and truly turned her into an object. And let me tell you, she's fucking brilliant. She's so smart. She's way better read than I am. She's making references and I'm nodding like I know what she's talking about. No idea what she's talking about.

Knows every fucking- She was naming movies. She was talking about Jenna Rowland's movies.

Knows every fucking- She was naming movies. She was talking about Jenna Rowland's movies.

I mean like, she's, she's just such an impressive human being.

I mean like, she's, she's just such an impressive human being.

And given everything that she's gone through, like, you know, to have your story be, to be, to have your story be stolen is, is I think kind of a, almost among the worst things that can happen to a person, you know, like that's her story to tell. And, you know, I get that it seems like it's part of the universe and it's, you know, up for grabs, but that's really rough. Right.

And given everything that she's gone through, like, you know, to have your story be, to be, to have your story be stolen is, is I think kind of a, almost among the worst things that can happen to a person, you know, like that's her story to tell. And, you know, I get that it seems like it's part of the universe and it's, you know, up for grabs, but that's really rough. Right.

I know we get paid to serve you guys, but be respectful. We're made out of the same things. Bone, body, blood.

I know we get paid to serve you guys, but be respectful. We're made out of the same things. Bone, body, blood.

That's brilliant. Absolutely.

That's brilliant. Absolutely.

You did, you did. But it's true. And, but, but here's, no, I was about to say, here's where I go down on you. Here's where we 69 is you showed up and I swear to God, he stole every fucking scene. He stole every scene. He was in Matt Rogers and Ray Romano turned into this like comedy team. I mean, you look out. I mean, it could be Ray sitting there in that matching sweater.

You did, you did. But it's true. And, but, but here's, no, I was about to say, here's where I go down on you. Here's where we 69 is you showed up and I swear to God, he stole every fucking scene. He stole every scene. He was in Matt Rogers and Ray Romano turned into this like comedy team. I mean, you look out. I mean, it could be Ray sitting there in that matching sweater.

But for some reason, I mean, like you would never think like Ray Romano, like salt to the earth from, you know, although you're not from too far apart from each other.

But for some reason, I mean, like you would never think like Ray Romano, like salt to the earth from, you know, although you're not from too far apart from each other.

And what a great fucking guy he is too.

And what a great fucking guy he is too.

It was like a set of menches.

It was like a set of menches.

And to be honest, that was like the whole goal that I had is now that I get to be a person who, you know, picks actors and hires crew and stuff. I'm like, I want to go to work and be surrounded by people I really enjoy being around.

And to be honest, that was like the whole goal that I had is now that I get to be a person who, you know, picks actors and hires crew and stuff. I'm like, I want to go to work and be surrounded by people I really enjoy being around.

Nice, kind, talented, but people who inspire me, people who are like, you know, if I'm going to go leave my two-year-old daughter at home and my wonderful wife, who I actually really like, you know, I want to show up to people who I feel like are my family. And it is, it is, it was so nice because we really did create that on No Good Deed.

Nice, kind, talented, but people who inspire me, people who are like, you know, if I'm going to go leave my two-year-old daughter at home and my wonderful wife, who I actually really like, you know, I want to show up to people who I feel like are my family. And it is, it is, it was so nice because we really did create that on No Good Deed.

Kelly Hutchinson is one of my best friends of 30 years. We were we were college roommates. Oh.

Kelly Hutchinson is one of my best friends of 30 years. We were we were college roommates. Oh.

We went to Boston University.

We went to Boston University.

We lived on Commonwealth Avenue. And we were roommates. She was an acting student. I was a TV student. And we used to smoke cigarettes in our apartment with the windows closed.

We lived on Commonwealth Avenue. And we were roommates. She was an acting student. I was a TV student. And we used to smoke cigarettes in our apartment with the windows closed.

Because that's what you did.

Because that's what you did.

Yes, we did have a dark inner life. And we just got like, you know, really stoned on really bad weed and horrible wine and have the greatest time. But she she was an actress on Broadway for many, many, many years and was like, you know what? I think I want to try my hand at writing. Sent me her script and said to me was her first show. And we've been working together ever since.

Yes, we did have a dark inner life. And we just got like, you know, really stoned on really bad weed and horrible wine and have the greatest time. But she she was an actress on Broadway for many, many, many years and was like, you know what? I think I want to try my hand at writing. Sent me her script and said to me was her first show. And we've been working together ever since.

And I mean, she's truly one of my best friends in, I mean, 30 years of friendship. So I have her and then Silver Tree, who's my producing director is an incredible director, but like we're good friends. And so I'm just in it for that. Like I'm in this whole business for friends.

And I mean, she's truly one of my best friends in, I mean, 30 years of friendship. So I have her and then Silver Tree, who's my producing director is an incredible director, but like we're good friends. And so I'm just in it for that. Like I'm in this whole business for friends.

That's all it is for me is connections. It's, it's human connection with people. You know, I want to create that with people at home that I maybe never get to meet, but I also want to create it with the people that I get to see every day. Hmm.

That's all it is for me is connections. It's, it's human connection with people. You know, I want to create that with people at home that I maybe never get to meet, but I also want to create it with the people that I get to see every day. Hmm.

What were those days? Crystal Wiig is what I like to call it. Crystal and I were, we were in the Sunday Company and the Groundlings together. But even before that, we were in an all-female improv group, which was obviously called The Last Women on Earth. And yeah, I mean, like we go way back. I was a bridesmaid in her wedding, her first wedding. Wow. That's wild. Yeah, that's my girl.

What were those days? Crystal Wiig is what I like to call it. Crystal and I were, we were in the Sunday Company and the Groundlings together. But even before that, we were in an all-female improv group, which was obviously called The Last Women on Earth. And yeah, I mean, like we go way back. I was a bridesmaid in her wedding, her first wedding. Wow. That's wild. Yeah, that's my girl.

Oh, gosh, yes.

Oh, gosh, yes.

Oh, we were children. I mean, I think I met her, I was 22 years old.

Oh, we were children. I mean, I think I met her, I was 22 years old.

Perfect.

Perfect.

In LA, we met at the Groundlings. We met on like a wow improv class at the Groundlings, which was just like a drop-in class. And I think we saw each other and we were like, oh, that's, we, oh, you're funny.

In LA, we met at the Groundlings. We met on like a wow improv class at the Groundlings, which was just like a drop-in class. And I think we saw each other and we were like, oh, that's, we, oh, you're funny.

We were connected, definitely.

We were connected, definitely.

It's how I've made so many of my dearest friends, truly. It's why I went to BU. I was visiting a friend, my friend, Dan Fogler, not to name drop, but a wonderful actor. And he was at BU. He was my best friend from high school. I was coming off a TV show called All That, which- It was my first show.

It's how I've made so many of my dearest friends, truly. It's why I went to BU. I was visiting a friend, my friend, Dan Fogler, not to name drop, but a wonderful actor. And he was at BU. He was my best friend from high school. I was coming off a TV show called All That, which- It was my first show.

I, you know, I've been doing this a long, long time. And I was like, fuck, I just want to go hang out with my friend in college. He's like, well, I'm auditioning for the improv group. You should just come with me. I'm like, I don't go to school here. I went anyway, got in and they were like, well, if you went to school here, you could be in this group. And I was like, okay.

I, you know, I've been doing this a long, long time. And I was like, fuck, I just want to go hang out with my friend in college. He's like, well, I'm auditioning for the improv group. You should just come with me. I'm like, I don't go to school here. I went anyway, got in and they were like, well, if you went to school here, you could be in this group. And I was like, okay.

So I didn't transfer. I wasn't even going to school. I went into the admissions office. Oh, okay. filled out an application, did an interview, and I got in, and that's why I went to BU.

So I didn't transfer. I wasn't even going to school. I went into the admissions office. Oh, okay. filled out an application, did an interview, and I got in, and that's why I went to BU.

I was quite literally, I didn't even know like what I was going to study. I didn't even care about any of it. I just wanted to be in the improv group.

I was quite literally, I didn't even know like what I was going to study. I didn't even care about any of it. I just wanted to be in the improv group.

And I made like one of my best friends for life in that group. I'm still friends with so many of the people from the group, you know, and then out here in LA, all my original friends were from the Groundlings. I did that for five and a half years.

And I made like one of my best friends for life in that group. I'm still friends with so many of the people from the group, you know, and then out here in LA, all my original friends were from the Groundlings. I did that for five and a half years.

It is. It is. And I mean, like when I was in the Sunday company at the Groundlings, Caitlin Olsen, Dax Shepard, you know, and by the way, all three of us were cut.

It is. It is. And I mean, like when I was in the Sunday company at the Groundlings, Caitlin Olsen, Dax Shepard, you know, and by the way, all three of us were cut.

Yeah. Sorry. I have to fix my bra strap. I guess I'm getting skinny.

Yeah. Sorry. I have to fix my bra strap. I guess I'm getting skinny.

I mean, listen, it happens. But it is actually in a weird way the best thing that ever happened to me.

I mean, listen, it happens. But it is actually in a weird way the best thing that ever happened to me.

I mean, Jenny's brilliant.

I mean, Jenny's brilliant.

I'm friends with several other gals.

I'm friends with several other gals.

It was. And I have to say as a person watching it at home, I'll... six and a half hours of it or however long it was very long, but I was, I could, I could have kept watching my, my, my wife and I were so excited to watch it. And you know, like, I mean, that's SNL is, is sort of like a family reunion for the audience too, you know, because so many of us like grew up watching it.

It was. And I have to say as a person watching it at home, I'll... six and a half hours of it or however long it was very long, but I was, I could, I could have kept watching my, my, my wife and I were so excited to watch it. And you know, like, I mean, that's SNL is, is sort of like a family reunion for the audience too, you know, because so many of us like grew up watching it.

My brother used to show my brother seven years older than me. He used to show me episodes that I in no way should have been watching, you know, at like five years old, you know? So, so these are all people that we've all grown up with.

My brother used to show my brother seven years older than me. He used to show me episodes that I in no way should have been watching, you know, at like five years old, you know? So, so these are all people that we've all grown up with.

Oh yeah.

Oh yeah.

I remember the Pit.

I remember the Pit.

Oh my God. That's hilarious.

Oh my God. That's hilarious.

Now I'm embarrassed I hadn't heard of Sluck, which is okay.

Now I'm embarrassed I hadn't heard of Sluck, which is okay.

He wants us.

He wants us.

You know what we should do? I'm going to say it right here on air to put the pressure on you. We should get a super group of queer improvisers together and do a charity show for trans youth.

You know what we should do? I'm going to say it right here on air to put the pressure on you. We should get a super group of queer improvisers together and do a charity show for trans youth.

Because there's some really brilliant improvisers here in LA too. Oh, yeah. And I've had the great pleasure of like Drew Droege. Oh, legend. Yep. I mean, the greatest.

Because there's some really brilliant improvisers here in LA too. Oh, yeah. And I've had the great pleasure of like Drew Droege. Oh, legend. Yep. I mean, the greatest.

Sam Pancake.

Sam Pancake.

Sam Pancake. Yeah. I mean, there's some, we should do that. We should absolutely do that. Do you know Brandon Scott Jones? Yes.

Sam Pancake. Yeah. I mean, there's some, we should do that. We should absolutely do that. Do you know Brandon Scott Jones? Yes.

Yeah. He was like- I think I did an improv show with him.

Yeah. He was like- I think I did an improv show with him.

Oh yeah. We flew to New York from LA with our show just to perform at UCB.

Oh yeah. We flew to New York from LA with our show just to perform at UCB.

I did do Del Close.

I did do Del Close.

We went on at some hilarious hour, like four o'clock in the morning or something.

We went on at some hilarious hour, like four o'clock in the morning or something.

That was an incredible experience. That was awesome.

That was an incredible experience. That was awesome.

Yeah, I mean, you know, it's interesting that you say that because The Groundlings is a proscenium. It's a very, it's a much more sort of presentational theater theater. And the characters tend to be bigger.

Yeah, I mean, you know, it's interesting that you say that because The Groundlings is a proscenium. It's a very, it's a much more sort of presentational theater theater. And the characters tend to be bigger.

By the way, Jimmy Fallon should also be in our. He's our favorite person ever.

By the way, Jimmy Fallon should also be in our. He's our favorite person ever.

I love him. He's wonderful. And, you know, I have known him since he was, you know, a wee improviser. I love him and I'm so proud of everything he's becoming. Yeah. And so much more to come. Wait, what were we just talking about before that?

I love him. He's wonderful. And, you know, I have known him since he was, you know, a wee improviser. I love him and I'm so proud of everything he's becoming. Yeah. And so much more to come. Wait, what were we just talking about before that?

Lisa Kudrow was a groundling.

Lisa Kudrow was a groundling.

And then a teacher? And then a teacher. And she said, recently we were talking, she said she was a terrible teacher.

And then a teacher? And then a teacher. And she said, recently we were talking, she said she was a terrible teacher.

I couldn't either. Nope.

I couldn't either. Nope.

No, no. I think I just mean pressure, like, you know, external pressure. Like, here's a multi-million dollar budget on your shoulders. Like, don't fuck it up. Do you like show running? I do.

No, no. I think I just mean pressure, like, you know, external pressure. Like, here's a multi-million dollar budget on your shoulders. Like, don't fuck it up. Do you like show running? I do.

I do. It's like a sickness, but I do like it. It's so hard. It's very hard. It's very hard, but it is 11 jobs in one. I like eight of them. You know what I mean?

I do. It's like a sickness, but I do like it. It's so hard. It's very hard. It's very hard, but it is 11 jobs in one. I like eight of them. You know what I mean?

I mean, I actually don't mind that part. I don't mind the managerial stuff and I don't mind the interpersonal stuff. I don't love the tech stuff. I don't love that. And I don't love like props meetings. You know, like just going over, like, here's the proper, I mean, like I'm not a detail person, which I'm much more of a macro gal. And my wife is micro, I'm macro.

I mean, I actually don't mind that part. I don't mind the managerial stuff and I don't mind the interpersonal stuff. I don't love the tech stuff. I don't love that. And I don't love like props meetings. You know, like just going over, like, here's the proper, I mean, like I'm not a detail person, which I'm much more of a macro gal. And my wife is micro, I'm macro.

And so we make a good pair, you know? And, but I do really like it because I love coming up with something from nothing. It's like this part that I'm in right now where I get to just sort of dream up a new world. It's so fun. I get to people my world. I get to create a writer's room of people I want to spend time with. And then think of actors I want to work with.

And so we make a good pair, you know? And, but I do really like it because I love coming up with something from nothing. It's like this part that I'm in right now where I get to just sort of dream up a new world. It's so fun. I get to people my world. I get to create a writer's room of people I want to spend time with. And then think of actors I want to work with.

It was more of a gesture.

It was more of a gesture.

I would work with you again in a heartbeat and I would work with you for the first time in a heartbeat. I would be lucky too.

I would work with you again in a heartbeat and I would work with you for the first time in a heartbeat. I would be lucky too.

Bowen?

Bowen?

Almost every reviewer thing that was written that I read, because I don't read them all, but like... Underlined. They highlighted Matt Rogers, who, by the way, is in a cast of very, very, very large cast of characters. I mean, there's nine series regulars and people are talking about Matt Rogers. That's very kind. Who's in many episodes. But, you know, like...

Almost every reviewer thing that was written that I read, because I don't read them all, but like... Underlined. They highlighted Matt Rogers, who, by the way, is in a cast of very, very, very large cast of characters. I mean, there's nine series regulars and people are talking about Matt Rogers. That's very kind. Who's in many episodes. But, you know, like...

I saw you and I love that for you. And I'm like, who is this guy?

I saw you and I love that for you. And I'm like, who is this guy?

I agree. I agree.

I agree. I agree.

Well, it was an unfortunate timing thing. You guys were a victim of a regime change, which is like- Tons of regimes changing. Yes, yes.

Well, it was an unfortunate timing thing. You guys were a victim of a regime change, which is like- Tons of regimes changing. Yes, yes.

I'm going to say the culture that made me say culture was for me was the original L word.

I'm going to say the culture that made me say culture was for me was the original L word.

I mean.

I mean.

Icon.

Icon.

Well. Here's the true story, which is that, you know, there was nothing for lesbian culture in terms of, you know, really being in the mainstream other than when Ellen came out, you know, but that was a, she really died on the cross for us on that one. But it wasn't necessarily about, you know, affecting sort of pop culture. That was about society to me.

Well. Here's the true story, which is that, you know, there was nothing for lesbian culture in terms of, you know, really being in the mainstream other than when Ellen came out, you know, but that was a, she really died on the cross for us on that one. But it wasn't necessarily about, you know, affecting sort of pop culture. That was about society to me.

You know, her coming out was about changing the temperature of how we feel as a society about gay women.

You know, her coming out was about changing the temperature of how we feel as a society about gay women.

But the L word was different because it was a fantasy. But it was a fantasy that was set in a reality that did sort of exist. It just didn't exist for me.

But the L word was different because it was a fantasy. But it was a fantasy that was set in a reality that did sort of exist. It just didn't exist for me.

I do think the L word is cultural. I mean, societal, I think, then as a result. But cultural in that. And listen, I'm going to say a few things that may be offensive to other queer women out there. But like, you know, I'm a gay woman who grew up in the 80s and 90s. You know, we had no role models. no direct role models. You know, we were grasping at straws.

I do think the L word is cultural. I mean, societal, I think, then as a result. But cultural in that. And listen, I'm going to say a few things that may be offensive to other queer women out there. But like, you know, I'm a gay woman who grew up in the 80s and 90s. You know, we had no role models. no direct role models. You know, we were grasping at straws.

We were grasping at an MTV VJ Duff, you know, grasping at like the girl from just one of the guys, which was an eighties movies literally before you were born. But you know, there was nothing for us that we were grasping at, at a Mary Stewart Masterson and some kind of wonderful who was a straight person. It seems sort of gay.

We were grasping at an MTV VJ Duff, you know, grasping at like the girl from just one of the guys, which was an eighties movies literally before you were born. But you know, there was nothing for us that we were grasping at, at a Mary Stewart Masterson and some kind of wonderful who was a straight person. It seems sort of gay.

Like, thank you, Katie Lang, we appreciate your work. But when the L word came out, I remember watching it with my one lesbian friend that I had in Los Angeles at the time and just thinking, oh my God, it's possible. It's possible. Where are these women? They must exist. They must exist.

Like, thank you, Katie Lang, we appreciate your work. But when the L word came out, I remember watching it with my one lesbian friend that I had in Los Angeles at the time and just thinking, oh my God, it's possible. It's possible. Where are these women? They must exist. They must exist.

And we were so enamored of this culture and this sort of group of friends that were created on the show that I kind of think we manifested it because we eventually met them.

And we were so enamored of this culture and this sort of group of friends that were created on the show that I kind of think we manifested it because we eventually met them.

And I was a standup at the time and I was writing and stuff. And I was doing standup at Dinah Shore Weekend, which for the dear readers, that is the lesbian sort of like Coachella, if you will. Yes. And I was doing standup and the L word gals were doing a, a like, you know, meet and greet kind of thing while the show is still on. And somebody took them to come see my standup.

And I was a standup at the time and I was writing and stuff. And I was doing standup at Dinah Shore Weekend, which for the dear readers, that is the lesbian sort of like Coachella, if you will. Yes. And I was doing standup and the L word gals were doing a, a like, you know, meet and greet kind of thing while the show is still on. And somebody took them to come see my standup.

And I had been doing the silliest vlogs. Yeah. I said vlog.

And I had been doing the silliest vlogs. Yeah. I said vlog.

I had been doing these very silly vlogs with some other lesbians where we essentially like recapped the L word. We made fun of the L word and recapped it. And they had been watching it unbeknownst to me. The cast had been watching these vlogs. Kate Menning came up to me and said, I'm a huge fan. And I almost fainted.

I had been doing these very silly vlogs with some other lesbians where we essentially like recapped the L word. We made fun of the L word and recapped it. And they had been watching it unbeknownst to me. The cast had been watching these vlogs. Kate Menning came up to me and said, I'm a huge fan. And I almost fainted.

A hundred percent.

A hundred percent.

And I was like, well, I'm a fan of yours. And we... Have been friends ever since. Oh, my God. Dear friends. She's one of my dearest friends.

And I was like, well, I'm a fan of yours. And we... Have been friends ever since. Oh, my God. Dear friends. She's one of my dearest friends.

I mean, it's like, you know, it's... Who else could be that person?

I mean, it's like, you know, it's... Who else could be that person?

You have to think about your audience a little bit.

You have to think about your audience a little bit.

I think that's the most important thing to do when you are in the very lucky position to create shows is create something you want to watch because the odds are other people want to watch it too.

I think that's the most important thing to do when you are in the very lucky position to create shows is create something you want to watch because the odds are other people want to watch it too.

No, because it's really not a thing.

No, because it's really not a thing.

Insofar as you guys being brunettes shouldn't be a thing and being Asian shouldn't be a thing. Like you're a talented artist with something to say. That should be the thing.

Insofar as you guys being brunettes shouldn't be a thing and being Asian shouldn't be a thing. Like you're a talented artist with something to say. That should be the thing.

But that is one of the things that I love about the entertainment business and about being storytellers is that we do sort of help society grow.

But that is one of the things that I love about the entertainment business and about being storytellers is that we do sort of help society grow.

tip you know and i think we were so close to a tipping point with the trans community and with the perception of trans people and unfortunately the forces of um they scapegoated them they scapegoated them yeah and they they pulled them you know in this tug of war to the other side and turned people against them just totally based out of fear and bad statistics

tip you know and i think we were so close to a tipping point with the trans community and with the perception of trans people and unfortunately the forces of um they scapegoated them they scapegoated them yeah and they they pulled them you know in this tug of war to the other side and turned people against them just totally based out of fear and bad statistics

I mean, you know, The L Word came back And I think it was the next gen, Gen Z. You know, that was less for me because I, you know, was more of an OG fan. But it was also just, I mean, just even fashion wise and, you know, just the way in which that we present ourselves.

I mean, you know, The L Word came back And I think it was the next gen, Gen Z. You know, that was less for me because I, you know, was more of an OG fan. But it was also just, I mean, just even fashion wise and, you know, just the way in which that we present ourselves.

Like, you know, when I was growing up in the nineties, you know, it was very like flannel shirt, unfortunate haircut times, you know. What was the haircut? I mean, I had a mullet. I did have a mullet. Yeah, more of a late 80s mullet. More of a late 80s mullet. Like more of a junior high kind of vibe. Got it. Or like even middle school. My style icon at the time was Alex P. Keaton from Family Ties.

Like, you know, when I was growing up in the nineties, you know, it was very like flannel shirt, unfortunate haircut times, you know. What was the haircut? I mean, I had a mullet. I did have a mullet. Yeah, more of a late 80s mullet. More of a late 80s mullet. Like more of a junior high kind of vibe. Got it. Or like even middle school. My style icon at the time was Alex P. Keaton from Family Ties.

He was the outlier of his family and I loved that show unknowingly because I was the outlier of my family. So even though he was playing this conservative Republican kid, I related to that character because it was almost as if he was the gay kid in his family.

He was the outlier of his family and I loved that show unknowingly because I was the outlier of my family. So even though he was playing this conservative Republican kid, I related to that character because it was almost as if he was the gay kid in his family.

But but then the L word, like the fashion was like on point. They were hot. They had cool haircuts. They did cool things. They went out. They forged this whole community and life, you know, that I just wanted so badly. And the irony is that just a few years later, I got to have it with those people. actresses who played those parts. And like, I just, you know, manifestation is real, baby.

But but then the L word, like the fashion was like on point. They were hot. They had cool haircuts. They did cool things. They went out. They forged this whole community and life, you know, that I just wanted so badly. And the irony is that just a few years later, I got to have it with those people. actresses who played those parts. And like, I just, you know, manifestation is real, baby.

Yeah. Also, it's going to make it a better write for you.

Yeah. Also, it's going to make it a better write for you.

If you want to, you know, if that's the kind of thing you're going to be interested in watching, you'll be more interested in writing it too. And it won't make it as painful of a process, though it's always painful.

If you want to, you know, if that's the kind of thing you're going to be interested in watching, you'll be more interested in writing it too. And it won't make it as painful of a process, though it's always painful.

Oh, I was, I was pretty far. I mean, I was like 26 or 27. So I mean, that's how long of a dearth I was operating in. And I mean, I was, I kissed my first girl at 16. Totally seduced by a girl who had gone to boarding school and she knew things I didn't. And thank you so much.

Oh, I was, I was pretty far. I mean, I was like 26 or 27. So I mean, that's how long of a dearth I was operating in. And I mean, I was, I kissed my first girl at 16. Totally seduced by a girl who had gone to boarding school and she knew things I didn't. And thank you so much.

And I didn't really know exactly what I was because I had actually weirdly been boy crazy before I had kissed a girl then became girl crazy.

And I didn't really know exactly what I was because I had actually weirdly been boy crazy before I had kissed a girl then became girl crazy.

And so, you know, this was long before fluidity or even bisexuality was like a really accepted thing. And so I wasn't really, I was like still sort of trying to figure myself out. And my mother at 17 years old, so I'm a senior in high school gave me a letter and she said, you're going to read this in the car and I'm going to, I'm going to drive and you're going to read it in front of me.

And so, you know, this was long before fluidity or even bisexuality was like a really accepted thing. And so I wasn't really, I was like still sort of trying to figure myself out. And my mother at 17 years old, so I'm a senior in high school gave me a letter and she said, you're going to read this in the car and I'm going to, I'm going to drive and you're going to read it in front of me.

And she was driving me to my SAT tutor at the time. And I opened it up and it was two poems. One poem was a daughter talking to the mother. It rhymed. And it was something like, I don't know what to say when a girl walks by my way, I think I might be gay. And I'm reading this and I'm in no way, shape or form ready to like come out. And

And she was driving me to my SAT tutor at the time. And I opened it up and it was two poems. One poem was a daughter talking to the mother. It rhymed. And it was something like, I don't know what to say when a girl walks by my way, I think I might be gay. And I'm reading this and I'm in no way, shape or form ready to like come out. And

Then the second letter is actually a poem from the mother to the daughter, also rhyming. And it says something like, you know, have no doubt, we'll figure it out. Like that kind of thing. And I was stunned. So my mother outed me at 17. I'm going to guess a full five years before I would have probably done so myself. And so that really started my journey.

Then the second letter is actually a poem from the mother to the daughter, also rhyming. And it says something like, you know, have no doubt, we'll figure it out. Like that kind of thing. And I was stunned. So my mother outed me at 17. I'm going to guess a full five years before I would have probably done so myself. And so that really started my journey.

Yeah. It was a shock. I would call it a shock because I wasn't ready.

Yeah. It was a shock. I would call it a shock because I wasn't ready.

And I appreciate that she saw me, but she almost like saw me too well. It's like, you know, she saw the x-ray version of me where, you know, like it was bones and everything. And I wasn't really ready for that. And I was mostly not ready to tell my father who at the time was quite homophobic. And so I was like, please don't tell dad. I mean, it's 1994. Yeah. 1994. So please don't tell dad.

And I appreciate that she saw me, but she almost like saw me too well. It's like, you know, she saw the x-ray version of me where, you know, like it was bones and everything. And I wasn't really ready for that. And I was mostly not ready to tell my father who at the time was quite homophobic. And so I was like, please don't tell dad. I mean, it's 1994. Yeah. 1994. So please don't tell dad.

And then, of course, that night, my father, who's like very Brooklyn, comes home and he's like, your mother said you might have something that you might want to talk about. You having some questions. And I'm like, let me tell you who I don't want to ask these questions to.

And then, of course, that night, my father, who's like very Brooklyn, comes home and he's like, your mother said you might have something that you might want to talk about. You having some questions. And I'm like, let me tell you who I don't want to ask these questions to.

So I said, I just I have to say I really admire myself at that age because I was very self-centered. I don't know. I felt I was self-possessed and I said, yeah, you know, I have been having questions, but it's okay. You know, and, uh, you know, I think I like girls, but I also like boys and blah, blah, blah. And he kind of started to cry, which was very shocking because he's a really tough guy.

So I said, I just I have to say I really admire myself at that age because I was very self-centered. I don't know. I felt I was self-possessed and I said, yeah, you know, I have been having questions, but it's okay. You know, and, uh, you know, I think I like girls, but I also like boys and blah, blah, blah. And he kind of started to cry, which was very shocking because he's a really tough guy.

And then he said he wanted me to go get my head checked by a psychiatrist. And I said, I'll only go if you come with me.

And then he said he wanted me to go get my head checked by a psychiatrist. And I said, I'll only go if you come with me.

First of all, let's not pretend that's the first time you've ever done that.

First of all, let's not pretend that's the first time you've ever done that.

And I was like, it was just such a weird time.

And I was like, it was just such a weird time.

So we went and I was 17. All I really cared about was driving. Like I wasn't ready to like profess anything about who I would be or end up being with or anything like that. So we go all together. She gives me a psychological evaluation. We all meet separately with her. Then we all meet together as a family with her.

So we went and I was 17. All I really cared about was driving. Like I wasn't ready to like profess anything about who I would be or end up being with or anything like that. So we go all together. She gives me a psychological evaluation. We all meet separately with her. Then we all meet together as a family with her.

She said I was the most mentally stable teenager she had ever had in her office and that I didn't need therapy, but she recommended that my parents stay on. Wow.

She said I was the most mentally stable teenager she had ever had in her office and that I didn't need therapy, but she recommended that my parents stay on. Wow.

I swear to God, we walk out of her office. My father gave me the keys to the car. It's the first time they let me drive the car home.

I swear to God, we walk out of her office. My father gave me the keys to the car. It's the first time they let me drive the car home.

I've written a version of it. I did a short film with my sister, Rebecca Feldman, who's a very talented writer and director in her own right. We did a short film called My First Time Driving. But I should say it's worth a revisit. It's worth a revisit.

I've written a version of it. I did a short film with my sister, Rebecca Feldman, who's a very talented writer and director in her own right. We did a short film called My First Time Driving. But I should say it's worth a revisit. It's worth a revisit.

It was, it really was. And my parents had marital problems and I realized too, it was my mother who had sort of whispered in my ear saying, tell your father that you won't go to therapy without him.

It was, it really was. And my parents had marital problems and I realized too, it was my mother who had sort of whispered in my ear saying, tell your father that you won't go to therapy without him.

And it was because she really wanted to go to therapy with him.

And it was because she really wanted to go to therapy with him.

And she was sort of trying to save her relationship. And, you know, spoiler alert, they're divorced. And but, you know, that was the beginning, certainly, of seeing them as fallible, you know, vulnerable people for sure.

And she was sort of trying to save her relationship. And, you know, spoiler alert, they're divorced. And but, you know, that was the beginning, certainly, of seeing them as fallible, you know, vulnerable people for sure.

Yeah, exactly.

Yeah, exactly.

Yes. And I think it's because my mom ultimately is a very liberal and very accepting person. I think she knew who I was for long before I did. And I think she knew that I had a father that would be oppositional to that. And I think she was also trying to sort of, you know, embolden me and protect me. and also literally change him.

Yes. And I think it's because my mom ultimately is a very liberal and very accepting person. I think she knew who I was for long before I did. And I think she knew that I had a father that would be oppositional to that. And I think she was also trying to sort of, you know, embolden me and protect me. and also literally change him.

Oh my gosh, I'm thrilled to be here.

Oh my gosh, I'm thrilled to be here.

And it took a minute, but he is a totally evolved person in that way. He's 88 years old. He was- Midlife? Yeah, midlife. God willing, I hope so. But like, you know, he like gave a beautiful toast at my wedding. And, you know, I mean, like he has really come around.

And it took a minute, but he is a totally evolved person in that way. He's 88 years old. He was- Midlife? Yeah, midlife. God willing, I hope so. But like, you know, he like gave a beautiful toast at my wedding. And, you know, I mean, like he has really come around.

A, I wish I knew it was your birthday. So that I would have come with some sort of gift and or a matching sweater.

A, I wish I knew it was your birthday. So that I would have come with some sort of gift and or a matching sweater.

You really do. You really do. And I have to credit the fact that my father married a woman 30 years younger than him. after my parents got divorced. And so she has really helped him modernize. But can I just say that question you asked earlier of when you were asking, what's the age that you wish that you could be? My answer is 35.

You really do. You really do. And I have to credit the fact that my father married a woman 30 years younger than him. after my parents got divorced. And so she has really helped him modernize. But can I just say that question you asked earlier of when you were asking, what's the age that you wish that you could be? My answer is 35.

Because I got married at 35 and that was such a lifelong goal of mine that I thought would never be possible to be married.

Because I got married at 35 and that was such a lifelong goal of mine that I thought would never be possible to be married.

Kelly green?

Kelly green?

Yes.

Yes.

Yeah. Yeah, it's true. I mean, like, so. So, yeah, this sort of pointed to have have said that. But I, you know, when I was growing up for most of my adulthood, gay marriage was not legal.

Yeah. Yeah, it's true. I mean, like, so. So, yeah, this sort of pointed to have have said that. But I, you know, when I was growing up for most of my adulthood, gay marriage was not legal.

And I took it so personally because why is that a dream I'm not allowed to have? And so when I finally met my wife, I was 31 and we didn't get married till I was 35 because it literally was illegal because of Prop 8. And at a certain point I got so mad that I was waiting for like a lot of change to do a thing that I felt very inherently, you know, was it my right?

And I took it so personally because why is that a dream I'm not allowed to have? And so when I finally met my wife, I was 31 and we didn't get married till I was 35 because it literally was illegal because of Prop 8. And at a certain point I got so mad that I was waiting for like a lot of change to do a thing that I felt very inherently, you know, was it my right?

She's giving Kermit.

She's giving Kermit.

Was my God given human right to be able to express my love for another person in front of my family and friends. And so we actually went to New York where it had become legal. We got married legally in New York, then came back, had our like wedding wedding in LA and six weeks later, Prop 8 overturned.

Was my God given human right to be able to express my love for another person in front of my family and friends. And so we actually went to New York where it had become legal. We got married legally in New York, then came back, had our like wedding wedding in LA and six weeks later, Prop 8 overturned.

We didn't wait for the man.

We didn't wait for the man.

Yeah. We did it the way we wanted to do it.

Yeah. We did it the way we wanted to do it.

Yeah. But that was a wonderful time in my life, 35, and just, you know, being able to fulfill this dream with this wonderful person, my wife, Rachel. And so I would say 35.

Yeah. But that was a wonderful time in my life, 35, and just, you know, being able to fulfill this dream with this wonderful person, my wife, Rachel. And so I would say 35.

Wow. Fuck. Fozzie Bear. Yeah.

Wow. Fuck. Fozzie Bear. Yeah.

It's the age you're going to be next, right?

It's the age you're going to be next, right?

Oh, okay.

Oh, okay.

Of course you're Pisces.

Of course you're Pisces.

Do you know that Pisces are like my people?

Do you know that Pisces are like my people?

No, I'm a Gemini.

No, I'm a Gemini.

We get along really well. I mean, like Scorpio, we have our thing.

We get along really well. I mean, like Scorpio, we have our thing.

Well, Pisces, for some reason, I gravitate, especially professionally, towards Pisces. Silver tree, a Pisces. I think we might have the same birthday actually. Kelly Hutchinson, a Pisces. Yeah. Yes. I mean, Cara DePaulo, another wonderful writer on the show, a Pisces.

Well, Pisces, for some reason, I gravitate, especially professionally, towards Pisces. Silver tree, a Pisces. I think we might have the same birthday actually. Kelly Hutchinson, a Pisces. Yeah. Yes. I mean, Cara DePaulo, another wonderful writer on the show, a Pisces.

Maddie Dollywall, another writer on the show, a Pisces.

Maddie Dollywall, another writer on the show, a Pisces.

Oh, how interesting.

Oh, how interesting.

He's sweet. And also for some reason, my daughter loves Fozzie Bear and says Waka Waka among the house.

He's sweet. And also for some reason, my daughter loves Fozzie Bear and says Waka Waka among the house.

It is. I feel like you guys have a very similar.

It is. I feel like you guys have a very similar.

I mean, you guys have a lot of empathy for each other. And I think that's what I what I'm talking about when I see like there's that warmth between you.

I mean, you guys have a lot of empathy for each other. And I think that's what I what I'm talking about when I see like there's that warmth between you.

I get them still.

I get them still.

They're mixing, but I'm liking them.

They're mixing, but I'm liking them.

Oh my God, I'd buy that.

Oh my God, I'd buy that.

She has the comedy bug. She does. Can I tell you that yesterday in the car, I picked her up from school, gave her a snack. Wasn't enough. She was still hungry. And I said, what are you hungry for? She said, hungry for boogers. Oh, and she knew she was making a joke. I laughed so hard that I've only, you know, validated that, you know, boogers are funny.

She has the comedy bug. She does. Can I tell you that yesterday in the car, I picked her up from school, gave her a snack. Wasn't enough. She was still hungry. And I said, what are you hungry for? She said, hungry for boogers. Oh, and she knew she was making a joke. I laughed so hard that I've only, you know, validated that, you know, boogers are funny.

It's like the cross section between vulnerability and inauthenticity. Correct. Because like it is vulnerable. Cause you're like, they need $35. You know what I mean?

It's like the cross section between vulnerability and inauthenticity. Correct. Because like it is vulnerable. Cause you're like, they need $35. You know what I mean?

Exactly. You know what I mean? Don't totally get that, but yes.

Exactly. You know what I mean? Don't totally get that, but yes.

And they're like saying things about you and it feels a little patronizing. And also, but like, because you're an empathic person, you feel a little bit like embarrassed for them.

And they're like saying things about you and it feels a little patronizing. And also, but like, because you're an empathic person, you feel a little bit like embarrassed for them.

I was going to say, he's been on.

I was going to say, he's been on.

That's true.

That's true.

If you had to get a cameo from somebody who would have been-

If you had to get a cameo from somebody who would have been-

I can't believe I have to follow the two of you. Oh my God.

I can't believe I have to follow the two of you. Oh my God.

She said, I'm hungry for boogers, which I think is really a strong, strong statement.

She said, I'm hungry for boogers, which I think is really a strong, strong statement.

And also the fact that people are even talking about the theme song, it all shows you how powerful the show is.

And also the fact that people are even talking about the theme song, it all shows you how powerful the show is.

Because when do you ever talk about theme songs?

Because when do you ever talk about theme songs?

I dare you to even hum another one. Like there's, it's very hard to make one that breaks the tune. That's a 20 year old theme song.

I dare you to even hum another one. Like there's, it's very hard to make one that breaks the tune. That's a 20 year old theme song.

Yes, we love you.

Yes, we love you.

Oh, I mean, we're only one deep, though.

Oh, I mean, we're only one deep, though.

She's a very versatile and very effective actress.

She's a very versatile and very effective actress.

And she pierces.

And she pierces.

No higher praise. If I could be so lucky.

No higher praise. If I could be so lucky.

Okay, Posey's gonna Posey. And let me tell you, what a delight. She just opens her mouth and I'm like, I'm like smiling immediately. There's something that she can just fucking eat the scenery. I love it.

Okay, Posey's gonna Posey. And let me tell you, what a delight. She just opens her mouth and I'm like, I'm like smiling immediately. There's something that she can just fucking eat the scenery. I love it.

Yeah, or rewatch Waiting for Guffman.

Yeah, or rewatch Waiting for Guffman.

If you fucking got.

If you fucking got.

Oh, I love that.

Oh, I love that.

But I bow down to Mike White. He's so good at what he does. And evidently he does it all by himself, which is so impressive because I need a room full of writers to lift me up and to help me see everything through.

But I bow down to Mike White. He's so good at what he does. And evidently he does it all by himself, which is so impressive because I need a room full of writers to lift me up and to help me see everything through.

I can't believe there are two of these sweaters in existence.

I can't believe there are two of these sweaters in existence.

Oh my gosh.

Oh my gosh.

Huge fan of hers.

Huge fan of hers.

Yes. I love her.

Yes. I love her.

So I feel, okay. I hope. Okay.

So I feel, okay. I hope. Okay.

It's a big moment.

It's a big moment.

I don't know if I'm ready.

I don't know if I'm ready.

I don't think so, honey. The Pete's coffee shop moving in across the street from the fancy Starbucks, which is next to the blue bottle, which is literally also across the street from a coffee bean in my neighborhood. Yes, there is an empty, beautiful piece of retail real estate that could be literally anything, but it's going to be a Pete's coffee.

I don't think so, honey. The Pete's coffee shop moving in across the street from the fancy Starbucks, which is next to the blue bottle, which is literally also across the street from a coffee bean in my neighborhood. Yes, there is an empty, beautiful piece of retail real estate that could be literally anything, but it's going to be a Pete's coffee.

Look, I have nothing against Pete's and I will probably even go there first as like just as an experience to explore.

Look, I have nothing against Pete's and I will probably even go there first as like just as an experience to explore.

But then probably also just every day because it's on my side of the street. But Jesus fucking Christ, how many coffee shops can one square block hold before a fucking sinkhole forms and we all get sucked into the abyss of corporate caffeine-driven capitalism?

But then probably also just every day because it's on my side of the street. But Jesus fucking Christ, how many coffee shops can one square block hold before a fucking sinkhole forms and we all get sucked into the abyss of corporate caffeine-driven capitalism?

The empire is falling, honey. No one needs that many options for where to get a peppermint gingerbread caramel chocomoccalate.

The empire is falling, honey. No one needs that many options for where to get a peppermint gingerbread caramel chocomoccalate.

Okay, it could be literally anything. Five seconds. It could be a Planned Parenthood. It could be a France Healthcare Clinic or a Xanax store.

Okay, it could be literally anything. Five seconds. It could be a Planned Parenthood. It could be a France Healthcare Clinic or a Xanax store.

But I won't because of RFK.

But I won't because of RFK.

A fourth coffee shop. I wish I was exaggerating. A fourth coffee shop in one square block.

A fourth coffee shop. I wish I was exaggerating. A fourth coffee shop in one square block.

Yes.

Yes.

I'm going to be honest. I walk past all four. However, like go to a local coffee shop.

I'm going to be honest. I walk past all four. However, like go to a local coffee shop.

Yeah.

Yeah.

It is a coffee bean in a parking lot. It's in a parking lot of an Albertsons.

It is a coffee bean in a parking lot. It's in a parking lot of an Albertsons.

She's a big girl.

She's a big girl.

I have nothing wrong with corporate entities and I shop at places that are very corporate.

I have nothing wrong with corporate entities and I shop at places that are very corporate.

Yeah, no, no. I love you. I heart, I heart.

Yeah, no, no. I love you. I heart, I heart.

I heart, I heart. But, but I mean, but truly like if you're, if you're going to peel back your efforts to like help people and employ people and protect people, then I'm going to peel back my dollars.

I heart, I heart. But, but I mean, but truly like if you're, if you're going to peel back your efforts to like help people and employ people and protect people, then I'm going to peel back my dollars.

That's silly. Like when that space opened, we were so excited by the infinite possibilities. A bagel store, Mayhaps?

That's silly. Like when that space opened, we were so excited by the infinite possibilities. A bagel store, Mayhaps?

Was this what he was dreaming up that you would be matching?

Was this what he was dreaming up that you would be matching?

A mouse persnaps? Persnaps. Persnaps. Persnaps is Kelly. Kelly took mayhaps and fucking- Maypersnaps. And put it on its little side for persnaps. But yeah.

A mouse persnaps? Persnaps. Persnaps. Persnaps is Kelly. Kelly took mayhaps and fucking- Maypersnaps. And put it on its little side for persnaps. But yeah.

cool queer sibling yeah definitely you queer words yeah and i appreciate that as someone who also does this yes we i feel like we are very simpatico i like i love wordplay sorry i said it um but i do i love to i love i'm a lady of letters and i like to i like to mix it around and make them sound fun there was one improv i did that there was like a tiny little meeting about whether it was too much of a swing and they left it you know what i'm talking about

cool queer sibling yeah definitely you queer words yeah and i appreciate that as someone who also does this yes we i feel like we are very simpatico i like i love wordplay sorry i said it um but i do i love to i love i'm a lady of letters and i like to i like to mix it around and make them sound fun there was one improv i did that there was like a tiny little meeting about whether it was too much of a swing and they left it you know what i'm talking about

Let me tell you what made it into the show. And let me tell you what made me laugh every single fucking time in editing. We hit a little Snuggorny Weaver.

Let me tell you what made it into the show. And let me tell you what made me laugh every single fucking time in editing. We hit a little Snuggorny Weaver.

Also an ad lib when he's with Ray and they're, well, I don't want to give anything away for people, but he's with Ray and there's maybe a room that like maybe has a little bit of a stench and Ray's trying to say, oh, it's rat piss. And he's like, that's human piss. I know what human piss smells like. I was single once.

Also an ad lib when he's with Ray and they're, well, I don't want to give anything away for people, but he's with Ray and there's maybe a room that like maybe has a little bit of a stench and Ray's trying to say, oh, it's rat piss. And he's like, that's human piss. I know what human piss smells like. I was single once.

I was single once as him.

I was single once as him.

What an honor. I feel, honestly, like when I was asked to come on, I really thought I was like dreaming or something. This is like truly, truly a dream. Super honored. I'm a big fan of you both. I think you're both incredible humans and also just hilarious and a gift.

What an honor. I feel, honestly, like when I was asked to come on, I really thought I was like dreaming or something. This is like truly, truly a dream. Super honored. I'm a big fan of you both. I think you're both incredible humans and also just hilarious and a gift.

You say the stuff and I love that.

You say the stuff and I love that.

What is that?

What is that?

There's a pathology there. But I have to say, I feel like it's really worked out because it's actually sort of stunning on both of you. Can I say it really does work on us both? It works on you both.

There's a pathology there. But I have to say, I feel like it's really worked out because it's actually sort of stunning on both of you. Can I say it really does work on us both? It works on you both.

But that's who we are. I mean, no, I'm not, I'm not feeling Tweedledee, Tweedledum. I'm feeling Tweedlehot and Tweedlestud. Tweedlehot, Tweedlestud, title of that.

But that's who we are. I mean, no, I'm not, I'm not feeling Tweedledee, Tweedledum. I'm feeling Tweedlehot and Tweedlestud. Tweedlehot, Tweedlestud, title of that.

Oh, wow. That is, wow. Tweedle, oh shit.

Oh, wow. That is, wow. Tweedle, oh shit.

That's right. It's called Here to Make Friends.

That's right. It's called Here to Make Friends.

And it's really about how hard it is to make friends in your midlife.

And it's really about how hard it is to make friends in your midlife.

Which you're not quite there yet, but wait till you see. Wait till you turn 36.

Which you're not quite there yet, but wait till you see. Wait till you turn 36.

I need you not to be middle age because I'm so much older than 35. No, I feel like middle age is 40. I'm going to be honest.

I need you not to be middle age because I'm so much older than 35. No, I feel like middle age is 40. I'm going to be honest.

Yeah, somebody said middle age is until you're 60, which I thought was generous.

Yeah, somebody said middle age is until you're 60, which I thought was generous.

Have them on their podcast.

Have them on their podcast.

Yeah, I mean, I think in part because when you're a kid, all you have is your friends.

Yeah, I mean, I think in part because when you're a kid, all you have is your friends.

You're just there to play. You're there to make believe. You're, you know, you don't have judgment or, you know, needs that are clear. Yeah.

You're just there to play. You're there to make believe. You're, you know, you don't have judgment or, you know, needs that are clear. Yeah.

Because I'm 34.

Because I'm 34.

Yeah. Talk to Matt's trainer. Cause he'll tell you at 37, at 37, that's where you identify your needs.

Yeah. Talk to Matt's trainer. Cause he'll tell you at 37, at 37, that's where you identify your needs.

Truly. But that is true. Like you're allowed to be intimate and vulnerable and yourself when you're a kid. And I think by the time you get into your mid thirties, forties, I'm just being generous by saying that.

Truly. But that is true. Like you're allowed to be intimate and vulnerable and yourself when you're a kid. And I think by the time you get into your mid thirties, forties, I'm just being generous by saying that.

30s i really just mean over 40. but um no but when you get to be an older person like there's a history that you have behind you yeah there's like a present that you're living in where there's so many stories like it's like when you go on a first date with somebody yes and you're like which version of myself like am i gonna give like am i gonna tell them my brother and my sister you know yeah and and so jesse and i were really lucky because we became friends in the writer's room of dead to me yes

30s i really just mean over 40. but um no but when you get to be an older person like there's a history that you have behind you yeah there's like a present that you're living in where there's so many stories like it's like when you go on a first date with somebody yes and you're like which version of myself like am i gonna give like am i gonna tell them my brother and my sister you know yeah and and so jesse and i were really lucky because we became friends in the writer's room of dead to me yes

And I knew who she was and she knew who I was. And we were both sort of like, you know.

And I knew who she was and she knew who I was. And we were both sort of like, you know.

And then when we started talking in the writer's room, I realized that like everybody was just watching us sort of kibitz and chit chat with each other. And like, we just had so much in common and I was so excited. And I, you know, you feel that sparkle inside with that new friend thing, which, you know, I'm a happily married gay. I've been with my wife for 16 years.

And then when we started talking in the writer's room, I realized that like everybody was just watching us sort of kibitz and chit chat with each other. And like, we just had so much in common and I was so excited. And I, you know, you feel that sparkle inside with that new friend thing, which, you know, I'm a happily married gay. I've been with my wife for 16 years.

So I don't, you know, I don't get to do the first date thing, but that felt great.

So I don't, you know, I don't get to do the first date thing, but that felt great.

Kind of first date-y and it was really like, it was really sweet. And so we are weirdly kind of like friendship nerds. We love to talk about friendship.

Kind of first date-y and it was really like, it was really sweet. And so we are weirdly kind of like friendship nerds. We love to talk about friendship.

And by the way, you guys are- We're the biggest friendship nerds. But you are such wonderful friends to each other. Like it's such a pleasure to listen to your show, not just for the funny and the pop culture of it all so that I feel relevant and I sort of know what's going on in the world, but also just because like you are kind to each other. You are like the living embodiment of yes and.

And by the way, you guys are- We're the biggest friendship nerds. But you are such wonderful friends to each other. Like it's such a pleasure to listen to your show, not just for the funny and the pop culture of it all so that I feel relevant and I sort of know what's going on in the world, but also just because like you are kind to each other. You are like the living embodiment of yes and.

I mean, you guys love each other and it's like it's snark free in such a wonderful, like fresh way.

I mean, you guys love each other and it's like it's snark free in such a wonderful, like fresh way.

No, I would actually call you devoid of snark. I would see, you guys are so like authentic and I would say very kind hearted about your approach to pop culture.

No, I would actually call you devoid of snark. I would see, you guys are so like authentic and I would say very kind hearted about your approach to pop culture.

Oh no, we are playing it safe because at first, you know how it is when you're first doing a podcast. You need, well, it's also like, people don't know what your show is. So like, no, we're not going to, Chastain's not coming on yet.

Oh no, we are playing it safe because at first, you know how it is when you're first doing a podcast. You need, well, it's also like, people don't know what your show is. So like, no, we're not going to, Chastain's not coming on yet.

Yeah, I mean, you know, so we do have our white whales, you know, of course, as I've heard you guys talk about.

Yeah, I mean, you know, so we do have our white whales, you know, of course, as I've heard you guys talk about.

Of course. Of course, we know we have our white whales, but for now we are mostly having guests on that we know on some level because they trust us enough to come on without having heard an episode because the show doesn't come out until March 14th. But the whole point is that we want to make friends and we feel excited that we got to make friends with each other.

Of course. Of course, we know we have our white whales, but for now we are mostly having guests on that we know on some level because they trust us enough to come on without having heard an episode because the show doesn't come out until March 14th. But the whole point is that we want to make friends and we feel excited that we got to make friends with each other.

So now we're like, who else could we make friends with? And the excuse of just inviting them on the podcast and then essentially like bum rushing them into friendship.

So now we're like, who else could we make friends with? And the excuse of just inviting them on the podcast and then essentially like bum rushing them into friendship.

And, and cornering them and basically putting pressure on them in front of a microphone to be like, but would you want to have drinks with us? Yes.

And, and cornering them and basically putting pressure on them in front of a microphone to be like, but would you want to have drinks with us? Yes.

A thousand percent. Like my, my ideal or, or Jesse and I have the ideal that like maybe at the end of the season we would have, you know, like a last supper.

A thousand percent. Like my, my ideal or, or Jesse and I have the ideal that like maybe at the end of the season we would have, you know, like a last supper.

You know?

You know?

You guys are invited.

You guys are invited.

Yeah. Bowen, we wanted to get you, but evidently you're very busy.

Yeah. Bowen, we wanted to get you, but evidently you're very busy.

He should have a moment because he's like our son.

He should have a moment because he's like our son.

So now we know what Bowen really thinks of himself.

So now we know what Bowen really thinks of himself.

But Bowen, if I may take this moment to say what a fan I am of yours.

But Bowen, if I may take this moment to say what a fan I am of yours.