Digest

This episode of the WTF podcast features a special 15th-anniversary celebration with host Mark Marin and comedian Drew Lynch. Mark reflects on the podcast's longevity and expresses gratitude to his producer, Brendan McDonald. He then introduces Drew Lynch, known for his podcast "Did I Stutter?" and his appearance on America's Got Talent. The conversation delves into Drew's comedic journey, starting with his experience with stuttering and his traumatic brain injury. He discusses how his vulnerability on stage, particularly his stutter, has led to a more authentic and comfortable performance. Drew shares his early experiences at The Comedy Store, where he faced criticism for his style, and how his online presence, particularly on YouTube, grew significantly after America's Got Talent. Mark and Drew discuss the evolution of comedy, the changing landscape of the industry, and the rise of online platforms. They reflect on the traditional comedy hierarchy and how it has shifted in recent years. Drew also shares his personal story, including his father's diagnosis with stage four brain cancer and his transition from family-friendly comedy to a more mature and authentic voice. The episode concludes with Drew discussing his aspirations to pursue acting and develop his own TV show, highlighting the challenges of navigating Hollywood's expectations and maintaining authenticity. He also reflects on his journey of self-humbling and the importance of genuine care for others.

Outlines

00:00:00

15th Anniversary of WTF Podcast and Interview with Drew Lynch

Mark Marin celebrates the 15th anniversary of his podcast, WTF, and introduces his guest, comedian Drew Lynch, known for his podcast "Did I Stutter?" and his appearance on America's Got Talent.

00:00:51

Drew Lynch's Comedy Journey and Stuttering

Drew Lynch discusses his comedic journey, starting with his experience with stuttering and his traumatic brain injury. He shares how his vulnerability on stage, particularly his stutter, has led to a more authentic and comfortable performance.

00:11:57

Early Experiences at The Comedy Store and Online Presence

Drew shares his early experiences at The Comedy Store, where he faced criticism for his style, and how his online presence, particularly on YouTube, grew significantly after America's Got Talent.

00:31:22

The Evolution of Comedy and Online Platforms

Mark and Drew discuss the evolution of comedy, the changing landscape of the industry, and the rise of online platforms. They reflect on the traditional comedy hierarchy and how it has shifted in recent years.

00:32:34

Drew Lynch's Personal Story and Transitioning to Edgier Comedy

Drew shares his personal story, including his father's diagnosis with stage four brain cancer and his transition from family-friendly comedy to a more mature and authentic voice.

01:06:50

Drew's Aspirations and Self-Humbling

Drew discusses his aspirations to pursue acting and develop his own TV show, highlighting the challenges of navigating Hollywood's expectations and maintaining authenticity. He also reflects on his journey of self-humbling and the importance of genuine care for others.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the significance of the 15th anniversary of the WTF podcast?

  The 15th anniversary marks a significant milestone for the WTF podcast, highlighting its consistency and quality over a long period. It also reflects the dedication of Mark Marin and his business partner, Brendan McDonald.

• How has Drew Lynch's experience with stuttering influenced his comedy?

  Drew Lynch's stuttering has become a central part of his comedic persona, allowing him to connect with audiences on a personal level and create unique comedic moments through his speech patterns.

• How does Mark Marin manage his travel anxiety?

  Mark Marin has learned to manage his travel anxiety through various strategies, including talking about his anxieties, engaging in problem-solving, and focusing on the positive aspects of his travels.

• What is Mark Marin's perspective on the changing landscape of comedy?

  Mark Marin acknowledges the shift in the comedy industry, particularly the rise of social media and the decline of traditional comedy hierarchies. He reflects on the importance of finding one's own voice and navigating the new landscape.

• How has Drew Lynch's traumatic brain injury impacted his life and career?

  Drew Lynch's traumatic brain injury has significantly impacted his life, affecting his speech and motor skills. He has overcome these challenges through therapy and has found a way to incorporate his experiences into his comedy.

• What is Drew Lynch's approach to dealing with his stuttering?

  Drew Lynch has embraced his stuttering as a part of his identity and has learned to use it to his advantage in his comedy. He has developed a unique comedic style that incorporates his speech patterns.

• How did Drew's stutter impact his stage presence and comfort level?

  Drew's stutter, a vulnerability he couldn't hide, forced him to confront his discomfort on stage. This ultimately led to a more authentic and comfortable performance, as he learned to embrace his true self.

• What were some of the challenges Drew faced in the early days of his comedy career?

  Drew experienced criticism and negativity at The Comedy Store, highlighting the challenges of navigating the competitive comedy scene and finding acceptance for his unique style.

• How did America's Got Talent impact Drew's career and online presence?

  America's Got Talent significantly boosted Drew's career, allowing him to reach a wider audience and build a dedicated following online. This led to a successful transition to online comedy platforms like YouTube.

Show Notes