American television writer, director and producer
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Welcome to Songs of Experience: A Bob Dylan Podcast, where we explore the man and the music one song at a time. In this episode, Chicago Filmmaker and author, Michael Glover Smith returns to discuss 1997's Grammy award winning, Cold Irons Bound and its placement in 2003's Masked & Anonymous. Michael also talks about his book, "Bob Dylan As Filmmaker: No Time To Think. Check out www.michaelgloversmith.com Listen to the song and follow along with the lyrics: Cold Irons Bound Written by: Bob Dylan I'm beginning to hear voices and there's no one around Well, I'm all used up and the fields have turned brown I went to church on Sunday and she passed by My love for her is taking such a long time to die I'm waist deep, waist deep in the mist It's almost like, almost like I don't exist I'm twenty miles out of town in cold irons bound The walls of pride are high and wide Can't see over to the other side It's such a sad thing to see beauty decay It's sadder still to feel your heart torn away One look at you and I'm out of control Like the universe has swallowed me whole I'm twenty miles out of town in cold irons bound There's too many people, too many to recall I thought some of 'm were friends of mine, I was wrong about 'm all Well, the road is rocky and the hillside's mud Up over my head nothing but clouds of blood I found my world, found my world in you But your love just hasn't proved true I'm twenty miles out of town in cold irons bound Twenty miles out of town in cold irons bound Oh, the winds in Chicago have torn me to shreds Reality has always had too many heads Some things last longer than you think they will There are some kind of things you can never kill It's you and you only I been thinking about But you can't see in and it's hard lookin' out I'm twenty miles out of town in cold irons bound Well the fat's in the fire and the water's in the tank The whiskey's in the jar and the money's in the bank I tried to love and protect you because I cared I'm gonna remember forever the joy that we shared Looking at you and I'm on my bended knee You have no idea what you do to me I'm twenty miles out of town in cold irons bound Twenty miles out of town in cold irons bound Follow @songsofbob, @henrybernstein.bsky.socialIf you would like to support hosting my podcasts, please check out my Patreon where for $5 I will give you a shout out on the podcast of your choice. Thank you to, Rob Kelly, Roberta Rakove, Matt Simonson, and Christopher Vanni. For $10, in addition to the shout-out I'll send you a surprise piece of Bob Dylan merch! Thank you to Kaitie Cerovec who is already enjoying her merch! I have a merch shop! Check out all sorts of fun Bob Dylan (and more) items! Thank you to Mark Godfrey, Linda Maultsby and Peter White over on Substack.Email us at songsofbobdylan@gmail.comSubscribe: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack.
A deep dive into one of the most overlooked -- and fascinating -- sides of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature winner: Bob Dylan, the filmmaker. While his music and lyrics have been studied endlessly, his work behind (and in front of) the camera remains largely unexplored. No other book has taken this angle, and with Dylan's legend still growing, the audience is more than ready for a bold new take. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker: No Time to Think (McNidder and Grace, 2026), the first book of its kind, opens up exciting new ways to think about the artistry of Bob Dylan. It offers a captivating exploration into movies that, according to Michael, showcase Bob Dylan not just as a subject, but as the primary author. These include Eat the Document--a short, experimental television film shot in 1966 and released in 1972; the sprawling, genre-blurring epic Renaldo and Clara (1978), both directed by Dylan himself; and the darkly surreal Masked and Anonymous (2003), directed by Larry Charles but co-written by and starring Dylan. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker explores what these movies reveal about "how it feels" to be Bob Dylan during three defining eras of his career: the revolutionary 1960s, the introspective 1970s, and the enigmatic early 2000s. Just as crucially, they illuminate Dylan's remarkable instinct for using film not merely as a medium, but as a deeply personal mode of expression. The book also provides an essential survey of Dylan's most recent movie projects, including those by other directors, in which Dylan's influence is less overt but no less powerful. Here, Michael argues that Dylan operates as a kind of "invisible co-author" in Martin Scorsese's Rolling Thunder Revue (2019), where Dylan appears as a slippery, self-mythologizing interviewee; Alma Har'el's haunting Shadow Kingdom (2021), a stylized livestream performance; and James Mangold's A Complete Unknown (2024), the Timothée Chalamet-led biopic shaped in part by Dylan's behind-the-scenes "script approval." Michael Glover Smith is a Chicago-based filmmaker, author and teacher. Michael's most recent movie, Hekla, starring Elizabeth Stam, will have it's festival premiere in early 2026. Michael is also the director of four award-winning feature films, the most recent of which, Relative, stars Wendy Robie (Twin Peaks) and is distributed by Music Box Films. His previous book, Flickering Empire: How Chicago Invented the U.S. Film Industry (co-written with Adam Selzer), was published by Columbia University Press to acclaim in 2015. He has seen Bob Dylan 100 times in concert. Michael on Twitter and Bluesky. Bradley Morgan is a media arts professional in Chicago and author of U2's The Joshua Tree: Planting Roots in Mythic America (Backbeat Books, 2021), Frank Zappa's America (LSU Press, 2025), and U2: Until the End of the World (Gemini Books, 2025). He manages partnerships on behalf of CHIRP Radio 107.1 FM and is the director of its music film festival. Bradley on Facebook and Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
A deep dive into one of the most overlooked -- and fascinating -- sides of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature winner: Bob Dylan, the filmmaker. While his music and lyrics have been studied endlessly, his work behind (and in front of) the camera remains largely unexplored. No other book has taken this angle, and with Dylan's legend still growing, the audience is more than ready for a bold new take. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker: No Time to Think (McNidder and Grace, 2026), the first book of its kind, opens up exciting new ways to think about the artistry of Bob Dylan. It offers a captivating exploration into movies that, according to Michael, showcase Bob Dylan not just as a subject, but as the primary author. These include Eat the Document--a short, experimental television film shot in 1966 and released in 1972; the sprawling, genre-blurring epic Renaldo and Clara (1978), both directed by Dylan himself; and the darkly surreal Masked and Anonymous (2003), directed by Larry Charles but co-written by and starring Dylan. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker explores what these movies reveal about "how it feels" to be Bob Dylan during three defining eras of his career: the revolutionary 1960s, the introspective 1970s, and the enigmatic early 2000s. Just as crucially, they illuminate Dylan's remarkable instinct for using film not merely as a medium, but as a deeply personal mode of expression. The book also provides an essential survey of Dylan's most recent movie projects, including those by other directors, in which Dylan's influence is less overt but no less powerful. Here, Michael argues that Dylan operates as a kind of "invisible co-author" in Martin Scorsese's Rolling Thunder Revue (2019), where Dylan appears as a slippery, self-mythologizing interviewee; Alma Har'el's haunting Shadow Kingdom (2021), a stylized livestream performance; and James Mangold's A Complete Unknown (2024), the Timothée Chalamet-led biopic shaped in part by Dylan's behind-the-scenes "script approval." Michael Glover Smith is a Chicago-based filmmaker, author and teacher. Michael's most recent movie, Hekla, starring Elizabeth Stam, will have it's festival premiere in early 2026. Michael is also the director of four award-winning feature films, the most recent of which, Relative, stars Wendy Robie (Twin Peaks) and is distributed by Music Box Films. His previous book, Flickering Empire: How Chicago Invented the U.S. Film Industry (co-written with Adam Selzer), was published by Columbia University Press to acclaim in 2015. He has seen Bob Dylan 100 times in concert. Michael on Twitter and Bluesky. Bradley Morgan is a media arts professional in Chicago and author of U2's The Joshua Tree: Planting Roots in Mythic America (Backbeat Books, 2021), Frank Zappa's America (LSU Press, 2025), and U2: Until the End of the World (Gemini Books, 2025). He manages partnerships on behalf of CHIRP Radio 107.1 FM and is the director of its music film festival. Bradley on Facebook and Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/film
A deep dive into one of the most overlooked -- and fascinating -- sides of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature winner: Bob Dylan, the filmmaker. While his music and lyrics have been studied endlessly, his work behind (and in front of) the camera remains largely unexplored. No other book has taken this angle, and with Dylan's legend still growing, the audience is more than ready for a bold new take. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker: No Time to Think (McNidder and Grace, 2026), the first book of its kind, opens up exciting new ways to think about the artistry of Bob Dylan. It offers a captivating exploration into movies that, according to Michael, showcase Bob Dylan not just as a subject, but as the primary author. These include Eat the Document--a short, experimental television film shot in 1966 and released in 1972; the sprawling, genre-blurring epic Renaldo and Clara (1978), both directed by Dylan himself; and the darkly surreal Masked and Anonymous (2003), directed by Larry Charles but co-written by and starring Dylan. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker explores what these movies reveal about "how it feels" to be Bob Dylan during three defining eras of his career: the revolutionary 1960s, the introspective 1970s, and the enigmatic early 2000s. Just as crucially, they illuminate Dylan's remarkable instinct for using film not merely as a medium, but as a deeply personal mode of expression. The book also provides an essential survey of Dylan's most recent movie projects, including those by other directors, in which Dylan's influence is less overt but no less powerful. Here, Michael argues that Dylan operates as a kind of "invisible co-author" in Martin Scorsese's Rolling Thunder Revue (2019), where Dylan appears as a slippery, self-mythologizing interviewee; Alma Har'el's haunting Shadow Kingdom (2021), a stylized livestream performance; and James Mangold's A Complete Unknown (2024), the Timothée Chalamet-led biopic shaped in part by Dylan's behind-the-scenes "script approval." Michael Glover Smith is a Chicago-based filmmaker, author and teacher. Michael's most recent movie, Hekla, starring Elizabeth Stam, will have it's festival premiere in early 2026. Michael is also the director of four award-winning feature films, the most recent of which, Relative, stars Wendy Robie (Twin Peaks) and is distributed by Music Box Films. His previous book, Flickering Empire: How Chicago Invented the U.S. Film Industry (co-written with Adam Selzer), was published by Columbia University Press to acclaim in 2015. He has seen Bob Dylan 100 times in concert. Michael on Twitter and Bluesky. Bradley Morgan is a media arts professional in Chicago and author of U2's The Joshua Tree: Planting Roots in Mythic America (Backbeat Books, 2021), Frank Zappa's America (LSU Press, 2025), and U2: Until the End of the World (Gemini Books, 2025). He manages partnerships on behalf of CHIRP Radio 107.1 FM and is the director of its music film festival. Bradley on Facebook and Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biography
A deep dive into one of the most overlooked -- and fascinating -- sides of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature winner: Bob Dylan, the filmmaker. While his music and lyrics have been studied endlessly, his work behind (and in front of) the camera remains largely unexplored. No other book has taken this angle, and with Dylan's legend still growing, the audience is more than ready for a bold new take. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker: No Time to Think (McNidder and Grace, 2026), the first book of its kind, opens up exciting new ways to think about the artistry of Bob Dylan. It offers a captivating exploration into movies that, according to Michael, showcase Bob Dylan not just as a subject, but as the primary author. These include Eat the Document--a short, experimental television film shot in 1966 and released in 1972; the sprawling, genre-blurring epic Renaldo and Clara (1978), both directed by Dylan himself; and the darkly surreal Masked and Anonymous (2003), directed by Larry Charles but co-written by and starring Dylan. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker explores what these movies reveal about "how it feels" to be Bob Dylan during three defining eras of his career: the revolutionary 1960s, the introspective 1970s, and the enigmatic early 2000s. Just as crucially, they illuminate Dylan's remarkable instinct for using film not merely as a medium, but as a deeply personal mode of expression. The book also provides an essential survey of Dylan's most recent movie projects, including those by other directors, in which Dylan's influence is less overt but no less powerful. Here, Michael argues that Dylan operates as a kind of "invisible co-author" in Martin Scorsese's Rolling Thunder Revue (2019), where Dylan appears as a slippery, self-mythologizing interviewee; Alma Har'el's haunting Shadow Kingdom (2021), a stylized livestream performance; and James Mangold's A Complete Unknown (2024), the Timothée Chalamet-led biopic shaped in part by Dylan's behind-the-scenes "script approval." Michael Glover Smith is a Chicago-based filmmaker, author and teacher. Michael's most recent movie, Hekla, starring Elizabeth Stam, will have it's festival premiere in early 2026. Michael is also the director of four award-winning feature films, the most recent of which, Relative, stars Wendy Robie (Twin Peaks) and is distributed by Music Box Films. His previous book, Flickering Empire: How Chicago Invented the U.S. Film Industry (co-written with Adam Selzer), was published by Columbia University Press to acclaim in 2015. He has seen Bob Dylan 100 times in concert. Michael on Twitter and Bluesky. Bradley Morgan is a media arts professional in Chicago and author of U2's The Joshua Tree: Planting Roots in Mythic America (Backbeat Books, 2021), Frank Zappa's America (LSU Press, 2025), and U2: Until the End of the World (Gemini Books, 2025). He manages partnerships on behalf of CHIRP Radio 107.1 FM and is the director of its music film festival. Bradley on Facebook and Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/music
A deep dive into one of the most overlooked -- and fascinating -- sides of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature winner: Bob Dylan, the filmmaker. While his music and lyrics have been studied endlessly, his work behind (and in front of) the camera remains largely unexplored. No other book has taken this angle, and with Dylan's legend still growing, the audience is more than ready for a bold new take. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker: No Time to Think (McNidder and Grace, 2026), the first book of its kind, opens up exciting new ways to think about the artistry of Bob Dylan. It offers a captivating exploration into movies that, according to Michael, showcase Bob Dylan not just as a subject, but as the primary author. These include Eat the Document--a short, experimental television film shot in 1966 and released in 1972; the sprawling, genre-blurring epic Renaldo and Clara (1978), both directed by Dylan himself; and the darkly surreal Masked and Anonymous (2003), directed by Larry Charles but co-written by and starring Dylan. Bob Dylan as Filmmaker explores what these movies reveal about "how it feels" to be Bob Dylan during three defining eras of his career: the revolutionary 1960s, the introspective 1970s, and the enigmatic early 2000s. Just as crucially, they illuminate Dylan's remarkable instinct for using film not merely as a medium, but as a deeply personal mode of expression. The book also provides an essential survey of Dylan's most recent movie projects, including those by other directors, in which Dylan's influence is less overt but no less powerful. Here, Michael argues that Dylan operates as a kind of "invisible co-author" in Martin Scorsese's Rolling Thunder Revue (2019), where Dylan appears as a slippery, self-mythologizing interviewee; Alma Har'el's haunting Shadow Kingdom (2021), a stylized livestream performance; and James Mangold's A Complete Unknown (2024), the Timothée Chalamet-led biopic shaped in part by Dylan's behind-the-scenes "script approval." Michael Glover Smith is a Chicago-based filmmaker, author and teacher. Michael's most recent movie, Hekla, starring Elizabeth Stam, will have it's festival premiere in early 2026. Michael is also the director of four award-winning feature films, the most recent of which, Relative, stars Wendy Robie (Twin Peaks) and is distributed by Music Box Films. His previous book, Flickering Empire: How Chicago Invented the U.S. Film Industry (co-written with Adam Selzer), was published by Columbia University Press to acclaim in 2015. He has seen Bob Dylan 100 times in concert. Michael on Twitter and Bluesky. Bradley Morgan is a media arts professional in Chicago and author of U2's The Joshua Tree: Planting Roots in Mythic America (Backbeat Books, 2021), Frank Zappa's America (LSU Press, 2025), and U2: Until the End of the World (Gemini Books, 2025). He manages partnerships on behalf of CHIRP Radio 107.1 FM and is the director of its music film festival. Bradley on Facebook and Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/popular-culture
It hasn't been a great year when it comes to treating our fellow human beings with dignity and respect. But it's been a great year for talking to extraordinary people on "Now What?" Larry Charles is a true character who wore his pajamas to work and directed Sacha Baron Cohen in the movie Borat. Along with Gilda Radner and Jane Curtin, Laraine Newman was a hilarious member of the original cast of Saturday Night Live which just celebrated its 50th season. Alison Bechdel, the gifted graphic novelist of Fun Home, has a lot to say about living the life of a gay boomer radical in Vermont. "Now What?" has turned out to be a podcast with a very special community. It's produced with the help of Steve Zimmer, Lucy Little and Jackie Schwartz. Audio production is by Nick Ciavatta.
Larry discusses his brilliant autobiography Comedy Samurai, becoming a writer, Friday's, arsenio, seinfeld, mad about you, borat, curb your enthusiasm, and all of the strife and feeds, and turmoil they and he created. We talk about the passion that drives you to take risks. And why wearing pajamas is dangerous.Bio: Larry Charles, rose from the mean streets of Brooklyn and the working class housing projects of Donald Trump's nefarious father Fred, to become the director of BORAT, BRUNO, THE DICTATOR and RELIGULOUS amongst others. He directed Bob Dylan and an all star cast (Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Jessica Lange and Penelope Cruz among others) in the film, MASKED AND ANONYMOUS which he and Bob wrote together. He has also directed numerous episodes of CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM and was one of the original writers and producers of SEINFELD. He has been nominated for 12 Emmys, winning two, 8 Golden Globes, winning one, a Peabody award and some other stuff too. He has collaborated with a diverse group of cultural icons from Mel Brooks to Michael Moore to Nicolas Cage. In 2018 he created, directed, wrote and starred in the four-part limited series for Netflix, LARRY CHARLES' DANGEROUS WORLD OF COMEDY. His new film for A24, Dicks: The Musical (formerly and more preferably Fucking Identical Twins), premiered at the Toronto Film Festival in the fall of 2023 and won The People's Choice Midnight Madness Award. And yet, despite all this, or because of it, he remains kind, humble and grateful. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Larry discusses his brilliant autobiography Comedy Samurai, becoming a writer, Friday's, arsenio, seinfeld, mad about you, borat, curb your enthusiasm, and all of the strife and feeds, and turmoil they and he created. We talk about the passion that drives you to take risks. And why wearing pajamas is dangerous.Bio: Larry Charles, rose from the mean streets of Brooklyn and the working class housing projects of Donald Trump's nefarious father Fred, to become the director of BORAT, BRUNO, THE DICTATOR and RELIGULOUS amongst others. He directed Bob Dylan and an all star cast (Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Jessica Lange and Penelope Cruz among others) in the film, MASKED AND ANONYMOUS which he and Bob wrote together. He has also directed numerous episodes of CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM and was one of the original writers and producers of SEINFELD. He has been nominated for 12 Emmys, winning two, 8 Golden Globes, winning one, a Peabody award and some other stuff too. He has collaborated with a diverse group of cultural icons from Mel Brooks to Michael Moore to Nicolas Cage. In 2018 he created, directed, wrote and starred in the four-part limited series for Netflix, LARRY CHARLES' DANGEROUS WORLD OF COMEDY. His new film for A24, Dicks: The Musical (formerly and more preferably Fucking Identical Twins), premiered at the Toronto Film Festival in the fall of 2023 and won The People's Choice Midnight Madness Award. And yet, despite all this, or because of it, he remains kind, humble and grateful.
GGACP celebrates the birthday (December 1st) of writer-director Larry Charles (“Borat,” “Seinfeld,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) with this ENCORE of an interview from 2019. In this episode, Larry joins the boys for an engrossing conversation about humor as a survival tactic, the hazards of guerrilla filmmaking, the persuasive powers of Sacha Baron Cohen and the Netflix show, “Larry Charles' Dangerous World of Comedy.” Also, Mel Brooks sends up Bill Cullen, Jerry Lewis inspires Bob Dylan, Gilbert guest stars on “Mad About You” and Larry remembers the late, great Bob Einstein. PLUS: “Lancelot Link, Secret Chimp”! The Zen of Jack Nicholson! The influence of Jackie Mason! Larry hangs with Huntz Hall! And the “Seinfeld” episode that never aired! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
CH101 Reprise: Larry Charles won an Emmy writing for Seinfeld, directed Borat, Brüno, and Curb Your Enthusiasm, and has collaborated with Larry David, Sacha Baron Cohen, and Bob Dylan . Larry joins CH101 for some serious comedy inside baseball: How he helped shape the voice of Seinfeld with Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld The chaos behind Borat's infamous poop-bag dinner scene What it was really like making subversive comedy with Sacha Baron Cohen Get the inside scoop on one of comedy's most fearless minds and check out Larry's new book: Comedy Samurai. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Guest Larry Charles and host Joshua Turek talk SF and LA noir, science fiction grounded on Earth, Larry's new memoir Comedy Samurai . They talk personal growth, the transformative power of literature and how reading can serve as both a source of pleasure and a means of preserving sacred knowledge.for Josh's poetry books, they're on sale until the end of the year, signed copies available domestically at joshuaturek.comBooks Talked About Include:Jesus' Son by Denis JohnsonCity of Night by John Reshycrime writers: edward bunker, jim thompson, david goodis, raymond chandler, dashiell hammetThe Woman Chase by Charles WIlifordThe Ripley Books by Patricia HighsmithIn a Lonely Place by Dorothy Hughes The Motel Life by Willy VlautenThe Stochastic Man by Robert SilverbergService by John TottenhamAblutions by Patrick DewittDays of the Locust by Nathaniel West Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Comedy Saved Me Podcast - Episode Show Notes Guest: Thom Tran Episode Description In this powerful episode of Comedy Saved Me, host Lynn Hoffman sits down with multi-talented veteran, comedian, musician, and activist Thom Tran for an inspiring conversation about resilience, healing, and finding purpose through laughter. Thom’s journey from combat soldier to comedy stage is nothing short of remarkable. After enlisting in the U.S. Army at just 18 years old, Thom served as a Communications and Civil Affairs Sergeant within the Army’s Special Operations Community. His military career came to an abrupt end in 2003 when a sniper’s bullet struck the back of his skull during combat operations in Iraq, just four days after crossing the border. Despite his injuries, Thom bandaged himself up and completed his 12-month tour—a testament to his incredible strength and dedication. Following his medical retirement in 2005, Thom discovered that comedy didn’t just change his life—it saved it. He channeled his experiences into stand-up comedy, eventually creating The GIs of Comedy Tour in 2010, a groundbreaking comedic troupe that has performed across the United States and in nearly two dozen countries, bringing healing laughter to military and civilian audiences alike. Lynn and Thom dive deep into how humor became his lifeline, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, and his mission to help other veterans through the transformative power of comedy. Special thanks to Dr. Ron Hirshberg and General Jack Hammond from Home Base for their support of our podcasts and for introducing us to Thom. For information on their amazing work go to https://homebase.org This episode is a testament to the healing power of laughter and the resilience of the human spirit—a must-listen for anyone who believes in the transformative power of comedy. Show Notes Guest: Thom Tran - Veteran, Comedian, Musician, Actor & Activist Key Topics Discussed: • Thom’s early military enlistment at 18 and service in Army Special Operations • Combat injury in Iraq in 2003 and the long road to medical retirement • How comedy became a lifesaving force in his post-military life • Creating The GIs of Comedy Tour and its impact on military communities • Performing for audiences around the world and raising over $50,000 for military families • The healing power of laughter for trauma survivors • Transitioning from soldier to entertainer • Building a career in LA comedy clubs and broadcast radio • Recent recognition at comedy festivals and future projects About Thom Tran: Thom Tran is a Los Angeles-based comedian, musician, and U.S. military veteran who transformed personal trauma into purpose through comedy. After a combat injury ended his Army Special Operations career in 2005, Thom discovered stand-up comedy and never looked back. In 2010, he founded The GIs of Comedy Tour, which has performed internationally and raised significant funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. His work has been featured on Netflix’s “Larry Charles’ Dangerous World of Comedy,” and he recently completed a decade-long career as a radio traffic anchor for KNX News. In 2025, he was named to the SLO Comedy Festival “Best of The Fest” and selected as a “Next Wave Top 5 Comics to Watch” at the Blue Whale Comedy Festival. Support the show: https://takinawalk.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Comedy Saved Me Podcast - Episode Show Notes Guest: Thom Tran Episode Description In this powerful episode of Comedy Saved Me, host Lynn Hoffman sits down with multi-talented veteran, comedian, musician, and activist Thom Tran for an inspiring conversation about resilience, healing, and finding purpose through laughter. Thom’s journey from combat soldier to comedy stage is nothing short of remarkable. After enlisting in the U.S. Army at just 18 years old, Thom served as a Communications and Civil Affairs Sergeant within the Army’s Special Operations Community. His military career came to an abrupt end in 2003 when a sniper’s bullet struck the back of his skull during combat operations in Iraq, just four days after crossing the border. Despite his injuries, Thom bandaged himself up and completed his 12-month tour—a testament to his incredible strength and dedication. Following his medical retirement in 2005, Thom discovered that comedy didn’t just change his life—it saved it. He channeled his experiences into stand-up comedy, eventually creating The GIs of Comedy Tour in 2010, a groundbreaking comedic troupe that has performed across the United States and in nearly two dozen countries, bringing healing laughter to military and civilian audiences alike. Lynn and Thom dive deep into how humor became his lifeline, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, and his mission to help other veterans through the transformative power of comedy. Special thanks to Dr. Ron Hirshberg and General Jack Hammond from Home Base for their support of our podcasts and for introducing us to Thom. For information on their amazing work go to https://homebase.org This episode is a testament to the healing power of laughter and the resilience of the human spirit—a must-listen for anyone who believes in the transformative power of comedy. Show Notes Guest: Thom Tran - Veteran, Comedian, Musician, Actor & Activist Key Topics Discussed: • Thom’s early military enlistment at 18 and service in Army Special Operations • Combat injury in Iraq in 2003 and the long road to medical retirement • How comedy became a lifesaving force in his post-military life • Creating The GIs of Comedy Tour and its impact on military communities • Performing for audiences around the world and raising over $50,000 for military families • The healing power of laughter for trauma survivors • Transitioning from soldier to entertainer • Building a career in LA comedy clubs and broadcast radio • Recent recognition at comedy festivals and future projects About Thom Tran: Thom Tran is a Los Angeles-based comedian, musician, and U.S. military veteran who transformed personal trauma into purpose through comedy. After a combat injury ended his Army Special Operations career in 2005, Thom discovered stand-up comedy and never looked back. In 2010, he founded The GIs of Comedy Tour, which has performed internationally and raised significant funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. His work has been featured on Netflix’s “Larry Charles’ Dangerous World of Comedy,” and he recently completed a decade-long career as a radio traffic anchor for KNX News. In 2025, he was named to the SLO Comedy Festival “Best of The Fest” and selected as a “Next Wave Top 5 Comics to Watch” at the Blue Whale Comedy Festival. Support the show: https://musicsavedme.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Larry Charles joined me to talk about his early heroes, The Little Rascals, 3 Stooges, and Abbott & Costello; trying stand up as a duo; the bimmies; portraying rabbi on stage; selling jokes; Darrow Igus buys jokes & leads to Fridays; the parakeet; Diner of the Living Dead; The Clash; Ronnie Horror Picture Show; 2nd Amendment sketch; Joe Shulkin; not all Fridays writers on drugs; harsher political satire than SNL; Men who Hum; more edgy music, then Kim Carnes; pause after Fridays; writing for Arsenio Hall; Dragnet; Seinfeld: The Library Book, The Limo, The Subway, The Outing; a scary incident with his family, art, and police; his voice; Carroll O'Connor & Carol Burnett; Mel Brooks; working with Shelley Berman on Curb; John Astin; Sandy Baron; Borat and the nude fight scene; more women liked Borat than predicted; loving Mad Magazine & National Lampoon; favorite writer was Michael O'Donoghue; Sacha Baron Cohen should have won the Oscar; Matt Walsh; faux doc on assassination of George W. Bush; Andy Kaufman returns to Fridays as a born again Christian; Nathan Fielder; Marty Feldman
This week on The Treatment, Elvis speaks with comedy writer and director Larry Charles about his memoir Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter. Then, drummer and producer Bobby Colomby stops by to talk about the late musician Eddie Palmieri. And on The Treat, actress and director Mariska Hargitay talks about words of wisdom she got from her father.
Writer and director Larry Charles has been an influential voice in American comedy for decades. From his groundbreaking work on TV series such as “Seinfeld” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” to films like “Borat” and “The Dictator,” you likely have laughed at his work over the years.But his lifelong dedication to laughter comes with a life-and-death seriousness, which he explores in his new memoir "Comedy Samurai: 40 Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter."Charles will be a featured author at the KPBS San Diego Book Festival on Saturday, Aug. 23.Guest:Larry Charles — writer, director and author of "Comedy Samurai: 40 Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter"
On this episode of The Story & Craft Podcast, we sit down with author, writer, producer and director,Larry Charles , who has a new memoir out called “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter”. He's known for a constellation of projects, such as Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage, Mad About You, Borat, The Dictator and The Comedians. We dive into Larry's journey from Brooklyn to Hollywood, discussing his work on iconic shows, as well as collaborations with the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Larry David, Sacha Baron Cohen, Bob Dylan and Bill Maher. We cover Larry's inspirations, his experiences in the industry, and his new memoir. This is a great bit of insight into the crafts of comedy and storytelling from one of the best in the business.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS02:43 Larry Charles' Personal Story02:58 Impact of Losing a Home07:34 Comedy in Tragedy08:37 The Influence of George Carlin13:32 Creating Content in the Digital Age18:50 Larry Charles' Early Life and Family29:08 Jewish Influence in Comedy34:15 Comedy Inspirations and Influences40:17 Exploring Comedy Preferences42:24 The Pressure of Producing Sitcoms43:42 The Evolution of Comedy44:37 Behind the Scenes of Entourage49:32 Directing Borat52:05 The Joys and Challenges of Directing55:58 The Seven Questions58:50 Dream Dinner Guests01:01:07 Religulous and Satirizing Religion01:05:08 Celebrity Crushes and Desert Island Picks01:12:10 Advice to My Younger SelfListen and subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Also, check out the show and sign up for the newsletter at www.storyandcraftpod.com...#podcast #LarryCharles #Seinfeld #CurbYourEnthusiam #Borat #Comedy #JerrySeinfeld #SachaBaronCohen #LarryDavid #BillyCrystal #PaulReiser #BillMaher #BobDylan #MelBrooks #Author #Writer #Producer #Director #ComedySamurai #storyandcraft #HBO #Author #Bruno #TheDictator #Jewish #Religulous
This Podcast is Making Me Thirsty (The World's #1 Seinfeld Destination)
Seinfeld Podcast Interview With Larry Charles. Larry wrote 18 incredible Seinfeld episodes, and a driving creative force from Seasons 2-5.Larry is Writer. Producer and Director who was a writer for the entire run of “Fridays." He Directed and Executive Produced “Curb Your Enthusiasm” & Wrote and Executive Produced “Entourage” He directed "Borat," "Bruno" and "The Dictator."He directed and co-wrote "Masked and Anonymous" with BOB DYLAN.He Created, Directed and Executive Produced "Larry Charles' Dangerous World of Comedy"He directed "Religulous" with Bill Maher.He was the showrunner for "Mad About You" for two seasons.His new book, “Comedy Samurai:” 40 Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter” is now available everywhere. And of course, he wrote 18 "Seinfeld" episodes, and was one of the driving creative forces for Seasons 2-5. He is credited with writing:"The Statue" (S02E06)"The Heart Attack" (S02E08)"The Baby Shower" (S02E10)"The Library" (S03E05)"The Subway" (S03E13)"The Fix-Up" (S03E16) - with Elaine Pope"The Limo" (S03E18) (Teleplay)"The Keys" (S03E22)"The Trip: Part 1" (S04E01)"The Trip: Part 2" (S04E02)"The Bubble Boy" (S04E07) - with Larry David"The Opera" (S04E09)"The Airport" (S04E12)"The Outing" (S04E17)"The Old Man" (S04E18) (Teleplay)"The Bris" (S05E05)"The Stall" (S05E12)"The Fire" (S05E19)Do us a solid, support the Podcast
Marital discord stikes via Rummy tiles. Marketing goes meta as Gwyneth grabs the bag as a spokespeson for Astronomer and Sydney Sweeney dog whistles to White Nationalists. Byron Bay has gotten creepier and how do you be a leader if you don't have any answers. We are excited about Folk Bitch Trio's new album and We Intend To Cause Havoc coming to Sydney. Larry Charles hears about our AI misadventures and sends Ben a copy of his book “Comedy Samurai”. Dive deeper into our universe at http://weirdertogether.substack.com
Very nice! Amy and Paul dive deep into the influential and controversial 2006 film Borat. They discuss its place on major film lists, its impact on comedy and American culture, and the unique challenges faced during its production. The episode features a special interview with Borat director Larry Charles, who shares behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the making of the film. You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul's Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6 Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/ https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/ Paul's book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheer Check out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheer Episodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/ Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don't forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The legendary writer ("Seinfeld") and director ("Borat") Larry Charles comes to "Naked Lunch" to discuss his brilliant career and his remarkable new book "Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter," a rollicking journey through modern American Comedy. Hear great stories about Sacha Baron Cohen, Larry David, Bob Dylan and so many more. To order Larry's book, click here. To learn more about building community through food and "Somebody Feed the People," visit the Philanthropy page at philrosenthalworld.com.
The very legendary wise comedy sage Larry Charles (Seinfeld, Curb, director of Borat 1, etc) joins us via BJS radio satellite to talk about his decades spanning career with candor only afforded to a made man. Truly goated individual. His new memoir “Comedy Samurai” is now available at bookstores and in audiobook form. If you live in LA, come to the Comedy Store Belly Room THIS FRIDAY for a Brandon Wardell and Friends featuring the likes of Dax Flame, Andrea Jin, Liam Callaugh, and Haley Stiel. Next month on Friday August 15, Brandon will be returning to The Bell House in Brooklyn, NY. https://punchup.live/brandonwardellFurthermore, join the patreon for bonus episodes every week including weeks where we skip main. We've been cooking with gas back there. If you're not behind the paywall, youre getting less than half the story. And you get the satisfaction of supporting our small independent business https://www.patreon.com/thebrandonjamelshow
Larry Charles drops by and the comedy wisdom flows. The boys dig into his wildest adventures with Sacha Baron Cohen, the mystery of Seinfeld laughter, and what it was really like leaving one of the biggest shows in TV history. They debate the death of the movie theater, the beauty of undignified characters, and why pet peeves make the best punchlines. Plus, tales of Johnny Carson, toaster oven rage, and the evolution of comedy—from network notes to full creative freedom. Sponsored by:
From Seinfeld, Curb, Borat, Bruno and Entourage; legendary writer/ director Larry Charles talks to me about his wild ride and about making a movie with Bob Dylan. Follow Larry Charles on Instagram @larrycharles Watch my special "You Know Me" on YouTube! http://bit.ly/FitzYouKnowMe Twitter: @GREGFITZSHOW Instagram @GREGFITZSIMMONS FITZDOG.COM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We really have it ALL today. From old nasty tweets to Larry Charles's feeling on other Larrys to Superman casting and Katy Perry. If you're 21 or over check out VIIAHEMP.com and get 15 percent off your first order over 100 plus a free gift of your choice. And free shipping! Use code rosepricks and take advantage of this amazing offer. That's V-I-I-A-H-E-M-P.com
Comedian Greg Fitzsimmons chats with Trey Elling, prior to his latest headlining weekend at the Comedy Mothership. Topics include:Judd Apatow (0:00)Writing for Crashing on HBO (3:27)Writing books vs scripts (7:42)Total eclipse of the heart (9:23)An epiphany with standup (15:03)Awe (18:33)Favorite books (22:47)Hatred for California (25:31)Tulsa, OK & Bob Dylan (27:21)Larry Charles interruption (30:04)
Kim Masters talks to writer & director Larry Charles about his new memoir Comedy Samurai. He shares stories about writing for Seinfeld, directing Curb Your Enthusiasm, and his chaotic experiences working with Sacha Baron Cohen on Borat and Bruno. Charles also tells the story of an early morning call from Ari Emanuel that pulled the plug on his Larry David documentary the day before its HBO premiere. Also, it’s official: Paramount has settled with Donald Trump over a long-disputed 60 Minutes segment. The company agreed to pay $16 million, a move that could clear the path for David Ellison’s long-anticipated Skydance merger. Kim Masters and Matt Belloni break down what this means for Paramount’s future… and what an Ellison-led studio might look like.
Kim Masters talks to writer & director Larry Charles about his new memoir Comedy Samurai. He shares stories about writing for Seinfeld, directing Curb Your Enthusiasm, and his chaotic experiences working with Sacha Baron Cohen on Borat and Bruno. Charles also tells the story of an early morning call from Ari Emanuel that pulled the plug on his Larry David documentary the day before its HBO premiere. Also, it's official: Paramount has settled with Donald Trump over a long-disputed 60 Minutes segment. The company agreed to pay $16 million, a move that could clear the path for David Ellison's long-anticipated Skydance merger. Kim Masters and Matt Belloni break down what this means for Paramount's future… and what an Ellison-led studio might look like.
We said Happy Birthday to future third-time world war winner United States of A with our good friends/fellow patriots comedy legend Larry Charles talking about his new memoir Comedy Samurai and podcaster Will Menaker from Chapo Trap House telling us about the new Chapo comic book. We also got Sal Guagenti from Sal's Movement singing the National Anthem and it was a real treat. Support the show, watch another hour with Joe Pistone (aka Donnie Brasco aka Phil Braun), Doug's Music Detective Game and some more rock news with Foreigner with OFFICE HOURS+. Get a FREE seven-day trial at patreon.com/officehourslive. Get tickets to see Tim Heidecker on tour with Vic Berger IV and DJ Douggpound out west this summer at timheidecker.com/live Order Larry's memoir Comedy Samurai now! Pre-order YEAR ZERO: A CHAPO TRAP HOUSE COMICS ANTHOLOGY now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We said Happy Birthday to future third-time world war winner United States of A with our good friends/fellow patriots comedy legend Larry Charles talking about his new memoir Comedy Samurai and podcaster Will Menaker from Chapo Trap House telling us about the new Chapo comic book. We also got Sal Guagenti from Sal's Movement singing the National Anthem and it was a real treat. Support the show, watch another hour with Joe Pistone (aka Donnie Brasco aka Phil Braun), Doug's Music Detective Game and some more rock news with Foreigner with OFFICE HOURS+. Get a FREE seven-day trial at patreon.com/officehourslive. Get tickets to see Tim Heidecker on tour with Vic Berger IV and DJ Douggpound out west this summer at timheidecker.com/live Order Larry's memoir Comedy Samurai now! Pre-order YEAR ZERO: A CHAPO TRAP HOUSE COMICS ANTHOLOGY now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of The Adam Carolla Show, Spectator columnist and cultural commentator Bridget Phetasy joins Adam in studio for a wide-ranging conversation that kicks off with her early days doing background acting and how that led to her media career. Adam pitches a new idea for content creation and shares a hilarious memory of doing a live Loveline show with Dr. Drew.The two dive into the dismal state of California's leadership and the lack of progress in rebuilding homes destroyed by wildfires. Adam offers some philosophical thoughts about fires, earthquakes, and chimneys, while Bridget shares how her husband's blood pressure dropped after moving out of the state. They discuss the decline of common sense in modern society and Bridget reveals her most unpopular opinion.Later in the show, legendary writer and director Larry Charles joins Adam to talk about the creative process behind comedy, his early days selling jokes outside The Comedy Store, and how he broke into the industry. Larry shares stories from working on Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and directing Borat, revealing why Sacha Baron Cohen deserved an Oscar. They also discuss why Bruno didn't resonate like Borat and reflect on the personalities of Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David in real life.Get it on.FOR MORE WITH JASON “MAYHEM” MILLER: INSTAGRAM & TWITTER: @mayhemmillerWEBSITE: www.mayhemnow.com FOR MORE WITH BRIDGET PHETASY:PODCAST: Walk-Ins Welcome with Bridget PhetasyWEBSITE: phetasy.comINSTAGRAM & TWITTER: @bridgetphetasyFOR MORE WITH LARRY CHARLES:BOOK: Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and LaughterINSTAGRAM: @ larrycharlesThank you for supporting our sponsors:BetOnlineuse code ADAM at american-giant.comCalderaLab.com/ADAMGo to https://hometitlelock.com/adamcarolla and use promo code ADAM to get a FREE title history report so you can find out if you're already a victim AND 14 days of protection for FREE! And make sure to check out the Million Dollar TripleLock protection details when you get there! Exclusions apply. For details visit https://hometitlelock.com/warrantyHomes.comoreillyauto.com/ADAMPluto.tvRosettastone.com/ADAMLIVE SHOWS: July 10 - Irvine, CA (Live Podcast)July 11-12 - Covina, CA (4 shows)July 16 - Rosemont, ILJuly 17 - Plymouth, WISee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Comedy legend Larry Charles (Fridays, Seinfeld, Borat, Curb Your Enthusiasm & much more) returns to the show to discuss his new book Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter. We have a wide ranging discussion of Larry's life in comedy including post-war Brooklyn as a comedy incubator, grinding out avant-garde sketch comedy with Andy Kaufman, the prevalence of coke and other drugs in the comedy writing scene, getting tackled by the Secret Service trying to get a joint to Jimmy Carter's sister, and the difficulties in comedic creative relationships. Larry also gets candid about his disappointment with the prevalence of zionism among his erstwhile comedy partners, and we talk about the humanizing force of humor in the face tragedy and despair. Pick up Comedy Samurai here: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/larry-charles/comedy-samurai/9781538771549/?lens=grand-central-publishing AND: get your pre-order in for YEAR ZERO: A CHAPO TRAP HOUSE COMICS ANTHOLOGY starting today at www.badegg.co
Over the last 40 years few comedians have been a part of so many iconic beloved projects than Larry Charles. Larry was one of the original writers and producers of the first five seasons of “Seinfeld,” he executive produced both “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “Entourage” while directing 18 episodes of “Curb,” and served as the showrunner for “Mad About You.” His film directing credits include “Borat,” “Bruno,” and “The Dictator,” as well as the documentary “Religulous” with Bill Marr, and “Masked and Anonymous” with Bob Dylan.Larry Charles writes about these 40 years of blood, guts, and laughter in his new memoir “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter.”
What happens when a former federal government employee turns his lens on the psychology of panic? You get Hysterical, a podcast series from Dan Taberski. In it, Taberski investigates a mysterious illness that swept through a group of high school students in upstate New York. He spoke with Tonya Mosley about his award-winning podcast.Book critic Maureen Corrigan recommends some mystery and suspense novels for your summer reading list. Also, we'll hear from Larry Charles who has been a writer, director and/or executive producer on a number of culturally impactful TV shows and films including Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage, and Borat. He spoke with Terry Gross about his new memoir.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Rob and Larry are comedy nerds. Larry Charles, the director of “Borat” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” joins Rob Lowe to discuss working with Bob Dylan and Larry David, the experience of shooting “Borat,” their mutual friend Arsenio Hall, his new memoir, and much more.Make sure to subscribe to the show on YouTube at YouTube.com/@LiterallyWithRobLowe! Got a question for Rob? Call our voicemail at 323-570-4551. Your question could get featured on the show!
Today on the show: Olivia Rinaldi from CBS News live in D.C. with the latest info on the Iran strike. ABC News reporter Peter Charalambous updates the Diddy trial heading toward closing arguments. Correspondent Rory O'Neill on how Americans are reacting to economic stress. Plus, Seinfeld writer/director Larry Charles joins us live! 9am-noon on 95.5 WSB.
Today on the show: Olivia Rinaldi from CBS News live in D.C. with the latest info on the Iran strike. ABC News reporter Peter Charalambous updates the Diddy trial heading toward closing arguments. Correspondent Rory O'Neill on how Americans are reacting to economic stress. Plus, Seinfeld writer/director Larry Charles joins us live! 9am-noon on 95.5 WSB.
Today on the show: Olivia Rinaldi from CBS News live in D.C. with the latest info on the Iran strike. ABC News reporter Peter Charalambous updates the Diddy trial heading toward closing arguments. Correspondent Rory O'Neill on how Americans are reacting to economic stress. Plus, Seinfeld writer/director Larry Charles joins us live! 9am-noon on 95.5 WSB.
Larry Charles is a true character. He liked to wear his pajamas to work. He was one of the original writers of Seinfeld. He also wrote and directed Curb Your Enthusiasm episodes. In between, Charles made a movie with Bob Dylan called Masked and Anonymous that was never released. He also directed Sacha Baron Cohen in Borat and Bruno where Cohen ran down the street in an orthodox Jerusalem neighborhood wearing pink hot pants. Larry Charles wrote a memoir called Comedy Samurai. The book is very funny. This conversation is hilarious. “Now What?” is produced with the help of Steve Zimmer, Lucy Little and Jackie Schwartz. Audio production is by Nick Ciavatta.
This week, Mike Lee can't look Amy Klobuchar in the eyes, Tucker Carlson plays cat and mouse with Ted Cruz, Theo Von gets a political wake up call, and tensions rise in the Middle East despite the U.S., Israel, and Iran having such fantastic leaders. Plus comedy legend Larry Charles of Seinfeld, Borat, and Curb joins to tell million dollar stories and 10 dollar jokes. And Chinedu Unaka and Adam Lustick fall in love with ChatGPT, the NBA finals and Trump's gigantic flag poles.Upcoming shows: crooked.com/eventsFor a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
This week, Paul reviews all your corrections and omissions from last week's movie "You Got Served". Then Jason joins Paul to talk with comedy legend Larry Charles. They discuss “The Dictator”, Bob Dylan, and his new book “Comedy Samurai”. Finally, Paul announces next week's movie! Larry's book Comedy Samurai is out now: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/larry-charles/comedy-samurai/9781538771549/And you can follow Larry on Instagram @larrycharles https://www.instagram.com/larrycharles/ • Go to hdtgm.com for tour dates, merch, FAQs, and more• Have a Last Looks correction or omission? Call 619-PAULASK to leave us a voicemail!• Submit your Last Looks theme song to us here• Join the HDTGM conversation on Discord: discord.gg/hdtgm• Buy merch at howdidthisgetmade.dashery.com/• Order Paul's book about his childhood: Joyful Recollections of Trauma• Shop our new hat collection at podswag.com• Paul's Discord: discord.gg/paulscheer• Paul's YouTube page: youtube.com/paulscheer• Follow Paul on Letterboxd: letterboxd.com/paulscheer• Subscribe to Enter The Dark Web w/ Paul & Rob Huebel: youtube.com/@enterthedarkweb• Listen to Unspooled with Paul & Amy Nicholson: unspooledpodcast.com• Listen to The Deep Dive with June & Jessica St. Clair: thedeepdiveacademy.com/podcast• Instagram: @hdtgm, @paulscheer, & @junediane• Twitter: @hdtgm, @paulscheer, & msjunediane • Jason is not on social media• Episode transcripts available at how-did-this-get-made.simplecast.com/episodesGet access to all the podcasts you love, music channels and radio shows with the SiriusXM App! Get 3 months free using the link: siriusxm.com/hdtgm
An oppressive heat dome hangs over tens of millions of Americans, with the chance of record breaking temperatures this weekend. With missile strikes damaging parts of Israel, states like Florida are stepping in to assist in rescue efforts. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez is at Tampa International Airport with the latest. Leah Lendel is recovering after a shark bit her hand off the coast of Boca Grande. With bait fish in abundance, marine experts say shark encounters may rise, but the odds of attacks remain low. With triple-digit temperatures expected in parts of the country, Nancy Chen shares expert advice from the beach on how to stay safe while swimming this summer. In his new memoir "Comedy Samurai," legendary writer and director Larry Charles opens up about working behind the scenes of some of TV and film's most daring comedies, from "Curb Your Enthusiasm" to "Entourage." Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Lukas Nelson releases his solo album "American Romance" and opens up to Anthony Mason about the personal journey that inspired him to step away from his father Willie Nelson's tour and his band Promise of the Real. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
6/18/25 - Hour 2 Rich dusts off his Power Rankings to list the top 10 athletes and coaches who need to win a championship most, including Aaron Judge, Dak Prescott, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Kyle Shanahan and others. Writer/producer Larry Charles joins Rich in-studio to discuss his new ‘Comedy Samurai: 40 Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter' memoir covering his experiences on writing and directing on ‘Seinfeld,' ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm,' ‘Borat' and more. Rich reacts to the Florida Panthers winning back-to-back Stanley Cup titles. Please check out other RES productions: Overreaction Monday: http://apple.co/overreactionmonday What the Football with Suzy Shuster and Amy Trask: http://apple.co/whatthefootball The Jim Jackson Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jim-jackson-show/id1770609432 No-Contest Wrestling with O'Shea Jackson Jr. and TJ Jefferson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-contest-wrestling/id1771450708 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Over the course of his 40-year career, Larry Charles has had two central creative relationships with Larry David (‘Seinfeld' and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm') and Sacha Baron Cohen (‘Borat' and ‘Brüno'). Now, he reveals in a new memoir that he hasn't spoken to either man in years. In his return to The Last Laugh podcast, Charles breaks down how it all fell apart with two comedians he still considers complicated geniuses. He shares stories about how ‘Seinfeld' solved its early Elaine problem after Julia Louis-Dreyfus came to the creators sobbing and reveals why a young David Sedaris turned down an offer to write for ‘Seinfeld.' Charles also discloses what exactly it was about his HBO documentary that Larry David couldn't stand, shares his thoughts about friends Bill Maher and Cheryl Hines flirting with MAGA, explains why there was a time he would have literally “died” for Sacha Baron Cohen and what went so wrong with their final collaboration ‘The Dictator.' Buy Larry Charles' new memoir ‘Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter'Follow Larry Charles on Instagram @larrycharlesFollow Matt Wilstein on Bluesky @mattwilstein Follow The Last Laugh on Instagram @lastlaughpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In his new memoir, Comedy Samurai, Larry Charles reflects on his career in comedy — from writing for Seinfeld to directing Sacha Baron Cohen's films Borat and Brüno — and a recent near-death experience.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Larry Charles sits down with me to talk about his fatherhood journey. He shares why he wanted to be a good father based on his own experiences with his dad. After that we talk about life lessons his kids have taught him. Next we talk about his new book, Comedy Samurai. We chat about what inspired him to write this book. In addition, we talk about working on films such as Borat and TV shows Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm. Lastly, we finish the interview with the Fatherhood Quick Five. About Larry Charles Larry Charles rose from the mean streets of Brooklyn. He lived in the working-class housing projects of Donald Trump's nefarious father Fred. Larry became the director of Borat, Bruno, The Dictator and Religulous amongst others. He directed Bob Dylan and an all-star cast Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Jessica Lange and Penelope Cruz among others in the film, Masked and Anonymous. That movie he and Bob wrote together. He has also directed numerous episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm and was one of the original writers and producers of Seinfeld. Larry is a Peabody, Golden Globe, and Emmy-award winner. Since the Malibu fires, he, and his wife and two dogs are vagabonds. Make sure you follow Larry on Instagram at @larrycharles. In addition, purchase Larry's book, Comedy Samurai, wherever you purchase your books. About Tide Treats Launched with a mission to elevate healthy living, Tide Treats offers a diverse range of protein-enriched snacks and meals that provide optimal nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Our products are thoughtfully crafted to empower individuals in achieving their wellness goals, quickly positioning Tide Treats as the trusted choice for health-conscious consumers around the globe. Special deal for listeners of this show Head to tidetreats.com and use code FATHERHOOD to get 15% off your first order. About The Art of Fatherhood Podcast The Art of Fatherhood Podcast follows the journey of fatherhood. Your host, Art Eddy talks with fantastic dads from all around the world where they share their thoughts on fatherhood. You get a unique perspective on fatherhood from guests like Bob Odenkirk, Hank Azaria, Joe Montana, Kevin Smith, Danny Trejo, Jerry Rice, Jeff Foxworthy, Patrick Warburton, Jeff Kinney, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Kyle Busch, Dennis Quaid, Dwight Freeney and many more.
Larry Charles is eccentricity manifested in human form. The creative genius' journey through television (Seinfeld, Mad About You, Curb Your Enthusiasm), film (Borat, Bruno, Religulous), and new media has been winding and star-studded. Larry has worked with greats from every industry, from the likes of Bob Dylan, to Nic Cage, Sacha Baron Cohen, and (quite famously) Larry David. Larry and Dan chat about his upbringing, his struggles with love and identity, and how he began to find peace in his forties. They also revisit his wildest journeys, from seeing the darkness of humanity making Borat and Bruno… to finding light while visiting comedians in Somalia. Larry's book, “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter” is available on June 17th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Larry Charles is eccentricity manifested in human form. The creative genius' journey through television (Seinfeld, Mad About You, Curb Your Enthusiasm), film (Borat, Bruno, Religulous), and new media has been winding and star-studded. Larry has worked with greats from every industry, from the likes of Bob Dylan, to Nic Cage, Sacha Baron Cohen, and (quite famously) Larry David. Larry and Dan chat about his upbringing, his struggles with love and identity, and how he began to find peace in his forties. They also revisit his wildest journeys, from seeing the darkness of humanity making Borat and Bruno… to finding light while visiting comedians in Somalia. Larry's book, “Comedy Samurai: Forty Years of Blood, Guts, and Laughter” is available on June 17th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices