Digest

This episode of Broken Record features a conversation with Michael McDonald and Paul Reiser, the comedic actor and writer behind the memoir "What a Fool Believes." The book chronicles the highs and lows of Michael's career, his struggles with addiction, and his lifelong insecurities. The two discuss how they met at a party and began recording their conversations, which eventually turned into the memoir. They also talk about the challenges of writing a book together, the importance of being open about one's struggles, and the unexpected moments that shape our lives. McDonald shares stories about his early career, his time with the Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan, and his experiences working with Quincy Jones and Ray Charles. Reiser talks about his own writing process and how he was inspired by McDonald's honesty and willingness to share his story. The episode ends with a discussion about the importance of being grateful and the realization that we are all still learning and growing throughout our lives. The hosts, Jessica St. Clair and Dame Casey Wilson, then promote their audiobook, "The Art of Small Talk." They highlight the book's unique approach to conversation, emphasizing the importance of going shallow to go deep. They also mention the book's accessibility, noting that it can be purchased at Pushkin.fm/smalltalk or wherever audiobooks are sold.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the podcast and its hosts, Jessica St. Clair and Dame Casey Wilson, who are actors, comedians, and podcasters. They also mention their audiobook, "The Art of Small Talk," which is a soon-to-be Nobel Prize-winning audiobook that will surely change the course of history.

00:02:38

Michael McDonald and Paul Reiser: An Unlikely Pairing

This Chapter begins with Justin Richmond introducing the episode's guests, Michael McDonald and Paul Reiser, and discussing how their unlikely pairing came about. They discuss how they met at a party and began recording their conversations, which eventually turned into the memoir "What a Fool Believes." They also talk about the challenges of writing a book together, the importance of being open about one's struggles, and the unexpected moments that shape our lives.

00:28:09

Michael McDonald's Musical Journey

This Chapter focuses on Michael McDonald's musical journey, including his time with the Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan, and his experiences working with Quincy Jones and Ray Charles. He shares stories about his early career, his struggles with addiction, and his lifelong insecurities. He also discusses the importance of being grateful and the realization that we are all still learning and growing throughout our lives.

00:44:46

The Making of "What a Fool Believes"

This Chapter delves into the process of writing "What a Fool Believes." Paul Reiser shares a story about how the song "What a Fool Believes" came about, and how he and Michael McDonald wrote it together. They also discuss the importance of being open about one's struggles and the realization that we are all still learning and growing throughout our lives.

00:55:15

The Importance of Being Grateful

This Chapter focuses on the importance of being grateful and the realization that we are all still learning and growing throughout our lives. Michael McDonald shares his thoughts on the importance of being grateful and how he has learned to be more forgiving and humble over time. Paul Reiser also shares his thoughts on how he has learned from Michael's outlook on life.

01:08:24

The Art of Small Talk

This Chapter features a commercial for the hosts' audiobook, "The Art of Small Talk." They highlight the book's unique approach to conversation, emphasizing the importance of going shallow to go deep. They also mention the book's accessibility, noting that it can be purchased at Pushkin.fm/smalltalk or wherever audiobooks are sold.

Keywords

Q&A

• How did Michael McDonald and Paul Reiser meet?

  They met at a party where Michael was hired to play piano and sing. Paul lived next door and they got to talking about their shared musical interests. Paul invited Michael and his guitar player to jam at his studio, and they became friends.

• What is "What a Fool Believes" about?

  The book chronicles the highs and lows of Michael McDonald's career, his struggles with addiction, and his lifelong insecurities. It's a personal story about finding your way in life and overcoming challenges.

• What was Michael McDonald's experience like working with Quincy Jones?

  Michael had a chance to record a solo album with Quincy Jones, but it didn't go smoothly due to miscommunication. He still considers it a missed opportunity, but is grateful for the chance he did get to work with Quincy.

• What is the significance of the story about Ray Charles?

  It highlights Michael's struggles with responsibility and his desire to please those he admires. It also shows how even successful people can face unexpected challenges and difficult situations.

• What is the main takeaway from the conversation?

  The conversation emphasizes the importance of being open about one's struggles, the unexpected moments that shape our lives, and the realization that we are all still learning and growing throughout our lives.

• What is the role of Paul Reiser in the book?

  Paul Reiser is not just a co-author, but also a key figure in the story. He provides a unique perspective on Michael McDonald's life and career, and his genuine interest in Michael's story is evident throughout the book.

• What is the significance of the story about Michael McDonald's first band?

  It shows how even early experiences can shape our future. It also highlights the importance of perseverance and the fact that not every opportunity will be a success.

• What is the significance of the story about Michael McDonald's time with Steely Dan?

  It shows how Michael's musical journey was shaped by his experiences with different bands and artists. It also highlights the importance of taking risks and pursuing your passions.

• What is the significance of the story about Michael McDonald's time with Warner Bros. Records?

  It shows how the music industry has changed over time and how artists have had to adapt to new trends and technologies. It also highlights the importance of finding the right people to work with and the value of creative collaboration.

• What is the main message of "The Art of Small Talk"?

  The audiobook emphasizes the importance of going shallow to go deep in conversation, suggesting that genuine connections can be formed through seemingly superficial conversations.

Show Notes