Tell The Bartender - A Storytelling Podcast

In this very special episode, The Bartender and her sister Caroline deconstruct one of the greatest albums from their childhood, (and really, in the entire world,) Cabbage Patch Dreams. They go through song by song and celebrate at the end by performing the crucial duet from Side 2. Difficult harmonies are attempted. Past sibling rivalry is discussed, and healing begins.

Then Michael John Improta carries the theme of childhood trauma and joy by talking about things he feared as a kid. Namely, his prank-playing stepfather.

In this Episode:

We did a full length live show at Union Hall and it was wonderful! Many thanks to our incredible guests Lizz Winstead (Co-Creator of the Daily Show, Activist, Awesome Person) and Michael Snow (CBS's Survivor, also Awesome Person).

Tweet Heat: Lizz Winstead shares a story about the time she got into a bit of trouble on the Twitter machine, plus she shares a very special Minnesota story for the Macalester College alums in the house!

So Many Jeans:  Before Michael Snow knew he was gay, he tried to have sex with a woman. It didn't go so well. And a short story about Survivor behind the scenes!

PLUS Katharine tells a story, we play "Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice" with a real life Matty Blake, and an audience member joins us for the new game, "Bar Talk"!

In this episode, we talk with two transgendered people. Lauren Hennessy identifies as a male in a female body who explains why he is not transitioning. Jack Katz explains how and why he is. PLUS shout outs to Katharine's biggest tippers and a new drink recipe!

In this episode, The Bitchy Waiter joins us to talk about one of the worst jobs he ever had. Then Oleh Zaychenko shares a very special coming of age story that took place one Summer working at Dunkin Donuts. PLUS we play "Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice" with you, the audience!

In This Episode:

The Best Ex: Keith and Chemda, hosts of the popular comedy podcast Keith and the Girl, tell the story of their break up, which was complicated by the fact that they had just written a book about relationships and had already signed a contract for their publisher agreeing not to break up for a year.

Be The Cat:Mitchell Bisschop never thought seriously about religion until he dated a Scientologist. Then he made a dramatic leap of faith. 

PLUS new music from Jackie Brubaker, two big announcements, limericks for listeners, and Katharine accidentally gets audio of her neighbors having loud sex while recording an intro.

In This Episode:

Last Days: Stephanie D’Abruzzo has an interesting history with last days on the job. She shares with us two short stories about her last day at the Broadway show Avenue Q, and her last day working at a Burger King in college.

The Preponderant Shaft Project: In 2008 a group of friends took an inside joke on an email thread a little too far. In Katharine’s first ever field piece, we hear from Ed Winnick, Chris Powers, Michael Boyd, Jon Quinn and Brett Gustafson about what inspired them to create a full length album worth of songs in a few weeks... over a private email conversation inspired by a spam message. For the first time, we hear the fruits of their creative labor.

In This Episode:

Horse Power:A few years ago Micaela Walker's car got hit by a reckless teenage driver. Since this took place in Amish Country, it also happens that the teenager was speeding in a horse and buggy.

The Time Of Your Life: Steve Reynolds tells us about one night with Green Day, his blood, and Winona Ryder.

Oopsie Baby: When Mike Rose's wife went into labor, he assumed the midwife would get to their home before the baby did. He was wrong.

Brooklyn based restaurateur Ted Mann always knew growing up that he was adopted. Recently he found out that his birth father wanted to meet him. Then he found out that his birth father is Ted Nugent. He shares the story of his incredible family reunion.

PLUS Katharine shares a drink recipe with a mixer by the nice people at Cocktail Crate, we play the new game, "Casting Notice or Craigslist Ad" with the help of Matty Blake from The Actors Grind Podcast, and listener shout-outs!

We spend the full hour with the amazing Kambri Crews. She tells us what it's like to grow up as a hearing child with two deaf parents, adventures with mom's "back massager", and the night she found out that her father was arrested almost stabbing a woman to death. We laugh, cry and make new drinks.

PLUS Katharine shares a new drink based on a friend and show supporter!

On this show, we hear from Sharda Sekaran who reveals how she, her high school friends, and a train full of New Yorkers on Halloween saved a cat from a man on the subway who claimed to be a space alien. Lora Chio tells the story about the time she booked a job in a Martha Stewart commercial without auditioning. She quickly finds out why.

In This Episode, my mother talks about the time she was almost kidnapped into white slavery when she was a teenager visiting Marrakesh. Then she shares a short story about my French grandmother getting kidnapped by the Nazi's during WWII. And Hugh Klitzke tells us about the time he was involved in an exorcism. And made lifelong friends.

Music credits:

“Setting Sun” by Chris Powers

“Happens All The Time” by Chris Powers

“Bottled in Cork” by Ted Leo & The Pharmacists

Dean Haspiel shares the very touching story of how he helped out a friend in need. By donating his sperm. And John Knefel talks about the time he fell hard for a girl, and took a trip to Argentina to see her. It didn't go so well.

Music credits:

“Setting Sun” by Chris Powers

“Bittersweet” by Chris Powers

“Bottled in Cork” by Ted Leo & The Pharmacists

In this episode, Molly Knefel shares with us the time she sold balloons on rollerblades for a Summer job, and in hindsight, learned the meaning of life. Then Jonah Eller-Isaacs tells a spooky tale about a restless night he spent at a friend's house. He didn't find out why until several years later. 

www.tellthebartender.com

Music credits:

"Setting Sun" by Chris Powers

"Bittersweet" by Chris Powers

"Bottled in Cork" by Ted Leo & The Pharmacists

In this episode we hear from Todd who recalls his days of playing with a very popular Christian rock band. This is complicated by the fact that Todd is decidedly not Christian. Then Matty Blake shares his personal tale of how he went from being an atheist to a Catholic. Hint: It involves a ghost story.

In this Episode:

Rod and Karen met in elementary school, have been together since they were 16 and married in 2002. They talk about their teenage courtship, and Rod has a story about something serious that happened at his high school. (CN: Discussion of sexual assault). Then The Bartender talks with Ash, whose relatives go back generations in the cigar business. She talks about her family, and then gives a masterclass in all things cigars.

Forest Ray was an Army medic in Iraq at the beginning of the war. He talks with The Bartender about the people he met there, cultural similarities and differences, how he felt about leaving, and his thoughts about what's happening currently in Afghanistan with the US troop withdrawal. They also briefly unpack their feelings about Jeff Bezos's penis rocket.

Have you ever exacted revenge on a bad person, but maybe didn't know how to do it right? Our anonymous guest walks us through a vengeance story that probably should have been handled by experienced tire-slashers, but it was handled nonetheless. PLUS a beautiful song and tribute to DMX from Katharine's elementary school friend Keefe Crawford with The FreeStylists .

CN/TW There is a part of the episode where we discuss sexual assault.

In this Episode:

Molly Knefel shares a never before told story involving very serious health problems she encountered while receiving IVF treatment. Then Hilary Asare tells The Bartender about her horrible experience with a certain diet company who shall not be named (kidding, it's totally named). Plus, pandemic adventures!

(CN for discussion of IVF and and assisted reproductive technology, and talk of weight and diet programs)

In this Episode: 

Shaving, amirite? Guests Katie Hartman and Rob Neill each tell stories about some very sensitive hair removal experiences. The Bartender hard relates.

In this Episode: 

The Bitchy Waiter makes a triumphant return to talk about being a server during COVID, customers and vaccines (oh my), and Kyra Sims joins The Bartender to tell a story about several first times... in one night.

In this Episode: 

When Susie's daughter started having violent outbursts after their second child was born, the family was told it was just sibling rivalry. It was not. She shares the story of her family's journey over the past decade to find help for her daughter. Then this year, COVID-19 made things even trickier.

In this Episode: 

Chemda and Keith, co-hosts of the Keith and The Girl podcast, were guests on this show years ago. A lot has changed. Chemda "spills the tea" about her recent divorce and why the relationship of 9 years ended, then Keith talks about a story UNFOLDING AS WE SPEAK about his dad, who recently emailed his ex wife. With her permission, Keith is now responding via email as his ex and is learning, well, a lot about his father. 

In this Episode: 

Jason, a musician and writer from Ontario, Canada, got sick and ended up in the hospital. He came out of a coma to find he had lost the use of his body. Jason talks about his path, being in a wheelchair, and how humor is always ok. Then Laura shares her story about taking risks, ignoring naysayers, and compares notes with The Bartender about being a fellow empath.

In this Episode: 

Callie and her boyfriend were offered to take free professional couples photos, but they broke up the day before the shoot. So when life gave her lemons, she made pizza.

Then T joins The Bartender to talk about acting, their temporary stint as a Jehovah's Witness, and... vampires.

In this Episode: 

When he was in his early 20's, David soon realized that being a writer in LA was a lot harder than he thought. But everything changed one day when he walked into a vintage record store.

CN: this conversation has talk of depression and suicidal ideation

About The Guest:

David Nadelberg is a writer, producer, host, and all around a lovely person. He is the creator of Mortified, a storytelling show where people share embarrassing letters, notes and poems things they wrote as kids. His six episode docuseries, The Mortified Guide, is now available on Netflix.

In this Episode: 

Derek Rosenfeld and Tommy McDonald from the The Drug Policy Alliance join The Bartender to talk about various obstacles they've experienced working to end the war on drugs. Derek recounts one bizarre tactic to deter a peaceful protest that involved dead fish, (not to be confused with his favorite band Phish), and Tommy recalls celebrating one of the proudest accomplishment of his career during one of the worst nights of his life.

PLUS Katharine shares audio of a beautiful speech her sister gave while accepting an award on behalf of her law firm's pro-bono work for helping abused women and children! UNFORTUNATELY the audio also caught a sexist remark from a nearby attendant/colleague about her sister's personal appearance as she took the stage to share an emotional story about their abusive father. So Katharine ends the episode with her feelings about that.

In this Episode: 

Ever wonder what it’s like to understudy four roles in a national tour of a Tony award winning Broadway show? Performer Rob Neill joins The Bartender to talk about his touring adventures with Peter and the Starcatcher, why art is more than just a career, what Tom Hanks is like in the event of an emergency, and then accidentally reveals that he babysat for someone very special (to Katharine).

In this Episode: 

Nessa Norich, awesome person and fellow New York Neo-Futurist, joins The Bartender to talk about ancestral trauma, how to move forward when there's a familial elephant in the room, and smashing the f@#k out of patriarchy. Then she sings a beautiful song she wrote. 

In this Episode: 

What do you get for the man who had everything? Kevin Iso and Dan Perlman from the hit web series Flatbush Misdemeanors join The Bartender to talk about creating content, working with kids, and the time they bought comedian Kevin Hart a gift that maybe wasn't the best idea at the time.

In this Episode: 

Vanessa Potter woke up one morning and found herself blind and unable to walk. Hear her talk about recovery, facing fear, and hearing colors. YES, HEARING COLORS. Then Melissa Divaris Thompson shares a story about giving birth to her first child, and the lack of “industry of support” around pregnancy and parenthood.

In this Episode: 

Dasha, who was born and raised in Russia, recently moved to America after years of living in South Korea. She talks to The Bartender about navigating different cultures, the impact of YouTube on Russian politics, and why she thought Putin was an ok guy until a few months ago. 

In this Episode:  Maggie's brother, who has Asperger's Syndrome, ended up in solitary confinement while in jail after an incident at his group home. She opens up about the complicated and flawed legal system in America, and how it often fails people with special needs. Then The Bartender shares some thoughts about Charlottesville, allyship, and the importance of listening and learning. PLUS a listener shout-out, and a sneak peak into next month's episode.

In this Episode: 

When Lynne went out on an audition for print work, she didn't expect the callback to happen so soon, except it was possibly neither an audition nor a callback. Then Betsy shares her experience working with an actor who did more than cross a few lines (and dance classes).

Writer/Performer/Awesome Person Shelton Pritchard Lindsay talks about the power of performance, and its role in facilitating conversations, reaching across political party lines and uniting the entire world. Sometimes. 

Then, Katharine plays a very special audio clip from a very special person (her boyfriend)'s recent graduation speech about being an artist in a capitalist society.

In this Episode: 

When Annie was training as a birth doula, she had very strong emotional reactions to some births, which made her look into her own. She talks with The Bartender about how the way we come into this world matters.

Oh, and she also tells a story about the time she, for her job, mediated a fight between roommates over a thermostat.

And huge thanks to The Black Guy Who Tips Podcast! Listen to them!

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode: 

The Bartender talks to Jen Glantz who is a "Bridesmaid for Hire", and has SO MANY QUESTIONS. Then Nancy Halpern shares some of her adventures from when she spent 5 days in Burma, alone, in her 20s. We then bring it back to American politics, the current Muslim "It's-not-a-ban-but-it-is-a-ban" Ban, and the impact of people traveling outside of their comfort zones.

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

The Bartender sits down with Idelisse Malavé and Joanne Sandler, the creators and co-hosts of the hit podcast, Two Old Bitches. The two talk about the evolution of their bitchery, the liberation that comes with running out of f$%ks, and how they accidentally became models for pee proof underwear.

In this Episode:

The Bartender shares some of her thoughts post election. Then, comedian Jes Tom talks about finding humor in times of despair, the best way to handle misgendering someone, and the time their grandmother got revenge against a school bully at the tender age of 8 after getting out of a Japanese internment camp.

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Melani, a single mother at age 41, found love in a hopeless place (an airport hotel in Pittsburgh). After 5 wonderful years with this man, she talks about moving forward after he passed away. Then we hear from Will whose father abandoned his family on Christmas Day when he was 16. He's trying to repair the relationship, and writing a show about it in the process. It involves a nuclear power plant and Brazil, not necessarily in that order.

In this Episode:

Jen and Alli spend a lot of time on the internet procuring content for their show, but what happens when they meet the face behind the avatar? They talk about lessons learned from strangers on Craigslist, explain what a "Splenda Daddy" is, and expound on Mpregs, Semenology, and women in comedy. You know, the usual. 

In this Episode:

Jake wasn’t very popular in high school so he was thrilled when “Emily” wanted to be his girlfriend. When she revealed why she started dating him, Jake thought it couldn’t get any worse. He found out that oh yes, it could.

In this Episode:

(TW: Rape, Abuse)

When Julie was sexually assaulted by the head of a prominent animal rights organization, she learned the limitations of her own rights in the "progressive" community. And then we hear from Tod, who saved a three legged dog and named it named Piggy. But who really saved who?

In this Episode:

Families can be full of drama! From getting a phone call that your grandmother assaulted someone at the nursing home, to hatching several unrealistic plans to run away from your parents, there is still that special something that keeps kin together. In this very special episode, we hear stories about forgetfulness, fights, and forgiveness. Plus Katharine's (almost) 5 year old nephew joins us at the end to provide riveting commentary. He has a lot to say about lobsters.

Jillian knew at a young age that she was obsessed with spankings. When she finally found a person who shared her fetish, her eyes were opened up to a whole new world. Unfortunately, someone else was watching.

In this Episode:

Andrea was hired by a human rights organization for a short job in India. The work was very fulfilling. She tells us what happened when the job became a little too fulfilling.

In this Episode:

High school is hard enough, but what do you do when a gym teacher threatens to expose a secret? Mary faced that challenge, and managed to fight it with a new found superpower. We then hear from Brandon who, on a whim, took a trip to Peru that had him facing some serious fears. Let's just say he may or may have not eaten a rat.

In this Episode:

As someone who has spent most of her life fighting for the rights of others, Mallika Dutt has her share of stories. First, we hear about how she skillfully handled the “casting couch culture” during production of a music video about women’s rights. Then she talks about a recently unearthed traumatic childhood memory that helped her understand her own personal obstacles. Oh, and Mallika makes The Bartender cry when she explains how the power of storytelling can change the world.

Wali, a very safe driver, was recently hired by a trucking company. During his month on the road with a trainer, he learned a lot more than how to make wide turns. PLUS The Bartender has a “New Awesome Podcast” alert – check out The Podcast of Color!

In this Episode:

When Marc was a teenager, his mother received a call that would change their lives. His father, a New York City policeman, was shot. Hear the touching story about how he learned about his dad's superpower. 

In this Episode:

The Bartender was recently approached by a band of Gypsies. Yes, a rock band of brothers who are Gypsies. In this very special episode, we hear about what it was like growing up, what it means to be a Gypsy, and how their band, The MXT, came to be. And then one of the brothers makes The Bartender cry with a moving and inspirational story. Hide your babies... KIDDING! They don't steal babies. But gather your hankies.

Then, The Bartender shares a short story about her encounter with a shitstain of a human garbage monster right before the interview.

In this Episode:

Liz was asked to watch a pair of very expensive Bengal cats for a week. Three months later, they were still in her home, and the owner was suspiciously jet-setting the world with her new boyfriend. Or was she? Liz accidentally embarked on a quest for said owner, a journey that involved Tijuana, background checks, monitored phone lines and meth.

Then Earl, a musician (and The Bartender's "prom date"), talks about the time he accidentally broke a young fan's heart. He had a really good reason.

PLUS hear The Bartender's attempt at commercial writing!

In this Episode:

After college, "Rosemary" spent some time in Italy working as a tour guide, learning about local customs and taking in the church. Her roommate was also getting to know the church, biblically. "Rosemary" has chosen to remain anonymous. 

PLUS an update to "SquirrelGate", and The Bartender gets sappy on the podcast's three year anniversary.

Get tickets to The Struggle Bus Live with Janeane Garofalo and Chemda Hennessy!

In this Episode:

Sally, generally a very risk averse person, was pressured into white water rafting. It turns out there's a reason Sally should not go white water rafting. Then Tyler joins The Bartender to talk about an unexpected adventure that ended in a skydiving trip. The skydiving wasn't nearly as exciting as what happened a few hours before.

Get tickets to The Struggle Bus Live with Janeane Garofalo and Chemda Hennessy!

Doors: 7:00 PMShow: 7:30 PM$7 Advance / $10 Day of ShowUnion Hall, Brooklyn NY

This very special episode doubles as a birthday present for a dear friend of The Bartender. Chemda Hennessy just celebrated a huge birthday, so Katharine put together stories and messages from some of her many friends, co-workers and admirers. HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHEMDA!

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars! THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO GOT TELL THE BARTENDER FEATURED ON NPR’S EARBUD.FM!

Due to popular demand, here is the Serial parody The Bartender made with her talented friends!

Every year we get together to celebrate the Scottish tradition of Burns Night, which honors poet Robert Burns. There is haggis, scotch, tartan, scotch, poems, scotch and toasts. This year Forest Ray was given the task to tell the “Immortal Memory” which revolves around a very naughty poem by Burns. So he wrote a spoof of the popular and awesome NPR podcast Serial.

In this Episode:

The universe works in mysterious ways. Just ask Rosa. In a single night, Rosa was able to overcome feelings about something from her past, impress an idol, and get some sweet, sweet action. She also blows The Bartender's mind when Rosa's story ties into something very intimate about Katharine.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO GOT TELL THE BARTENDER FEATURED ON NPR’S EARBUD.FM!

Music suggestions this week from Naz T. Nate! Check out his work here.

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars! PLUS since everyone says her voice is soon soothing, if you tip The Bartender $10 or more she will send you a personal audio message of a bedtime story of your choosing (you supply the text). With a donation of $25 or more, The Bartender will record a holiday song of your choice! 

In this Episode:

How does one break their vagina? Daniella shares with us the intimate details. And Danny tells how he ended up in "conversion therapy" after his very catholic parents found pornography in his room.

In this Episode:

Lana recalls a very special night that made her an honorary New Yorker. It's also a PSA on why you should never share towels. Then Wali talks about growing up Muslim, why he stopped practicing, and how he told his family. Then he and The Bartender tell stories (and secrets) about some of the shenanigans that went down on the Keith and The Girl tour (Wali was the tour bus driver).

In this Episode:

Meredith hadn't had much luck with online dating. This is the story of one date that turned into a shitstorm. Literally.

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars! PLUS this month, since everyone says her voice is soon soothing, if you tip The Bartender $10 or more she will send you a personal audio message of a bedtime story of your choosing (you supply the text).

In this Episode:

"Nixon", our anonymous guest, tells The Bartender about the time she started seriously dating a woman whose cancer had just returned. Nixon tried to be a supportive girlfriend during this difficult time, but for some reason all of her efforts fell flat. Turns out there was a totally reasonable explanation.

ALSO, The Bartender is going on tour with the comedy podcast Keith and The Girl in October! See show dates here.

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars! PLUS this month, since everyone says her voice is soon soothing, if you tip The Bartender $10 or more she will send you a personal audio message of a bedtime story of your choosing (you supply the text).

In this Episode:

Ever found yourself completely out of your element? Shari shares her experience with auditioning for American Idol... four times. And Micah and Dan tell us about some otherworldly experiences they both had. It involves an ouija board, American Horror Story, and mushrooms. Not in that order. ALSO, The Bartender is going on tour with the comedy podcast Keith and The Girl in October! See show dates here (more TBA). 

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

New York native Anthony survived the devastating LA earthquake of '94. But he soon found out the damage wasn't nearly done. And The Bitchy Waiter is back to tell us what happened to him hours after the last time he was on the show... he isn't proud.

PLUS listener shout outs, and The Bartender is going on tour with the comedy podcast Keith and The Girl in October! See show dates here. Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Ever had to make a life changing decision immediately? We hear from two people who didn't have a lot of time to make an important choice. First, Luke talks about finding himself face to face with someone from his past (who happens to be a member of his church). And then we hear from Jan, a sergeant in the NYPD, who had to bend the rules a bit to help someone in need (it involves a Winnie The Pooh Piglet doll).

Steve tells us about the time he was inspired to play music after meeting his idols, The Flaming Lips, who he eventually toured with. That's also when he found out some dreams aren't meant to be followed. And Niabi shares with us why she eventually quit a job as a knife thrower's assistant for The Great Throwdini. Also, The Bartender is going on tour with the comedy podcast Keith and The Girl in October! See show dates here (more TBA). Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

We hear three stories about some very awkward moments. One of them involves Arianna Huffington, another involves peach schnapps and the cops, and the last involves karaoke, because of course. Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Jim educates us about "Devil's Night" (the night before Halloween), and how a prank he played on a neighbor went terribly, terribly wrong. Then things got worse. 

And The Bartender recalls the time a joke she made got taken a little too seriously. It involves playing in a punk band called "Bitch Chicks On The Rag". 

PLUS a listener shout out! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode: 

I'll Accept The Charges: Very recently Clementine got a collect call from a correctional facility. It was her long lost uncle asking for help. But as time went on, the only things that started to add up in his story were the phone charges. Then things got weird. Clementine is using her real name but all other names and locations have been changed to protect the innocent - and the guilty.

What Could Possibly Go Wrong: Jackson found out the hard way - the very hard way - what happens when you throw a little party in your boss's house while they're away and put the invite on Facebook. Again, Jackson is using his real name but others have been changed to protect a certain restraining order. 

In this Episode:

In a world where it's easy to lose faith in humanity, The Bartender sat down with two people who are making big changes with small actions to help others, and themselves. Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Survival jobs - that thing you do while pursuing the other thing you do that doesn't pay all the bills yet. Here are stories from unique individuals who have been there and done that. We hear from a kids soccer referee, a personal assistant, a UPS employee and a bartender from a "Coyote Ugly" type establishment. PLUS listener shout outs! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Vegan drag queen Honey LaBronx (AKA Ben Strothmann) just moved into a gorgeous, affordable apartment in Manhattan. How he got it is another story. It involves negotiating with the IRS. 

PLUS a fellow podcaster shout out! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

Genevieve found a purse on a train and hoped to return it to the owner. What she didn't expect was to become deeply entwined with the subjects of its contents. You can read more stories about magic on the NYC subway at her awesome blog, Subway Subculture.

PLUS listener shout outs! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Zhu Yi was unable to be in her home country when her grandmother died, but first she had to find out about it after the fact. Zhu talks about how her eccentric family has influenced her, inspired her, and like many families sometimes had the cops called on them.

Then Kerry joins The Bartender for the first ever "Tell The Bartender Theater" segment where they do a dramatic reading of a series of unflattering text messages about Kerry, accidentally sent to Kerry, from a (now former) friend of Kerry.

In this Episode:

"Tyler" tells us the best gift to bring for the host of a private sex party. Hint: it's homemade. Then Keri recalls some shitty dating experiences. Unfortunately, that's literal. Also, have a band or write songs? Submit your own music to be featured on future shows! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Mike tells a story that he has never told anyone (even his wife) and The Bartender is, for the first time, at a loss for words. Then Tommy talks about the idea of "casual racism", which culminates with a story about what NOT to do when you "see something" suspicious on the train. Like the show?  Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

The Bartender is joined by Norm Lewis and The Bitchy Waiter for another wonderful live show. PLUS a listener shout out, and we play Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice with Jordan McDonough! Recorded at Union Hall in Brooklyn, NY. Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

We hear stories from people who have loved, lost, and been punched by strangers. PLUS buy tickets now for Tell The Bartender LIVE on February 18th with Norm Lewis and the Bitchy Waiter! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

The Serial parody you’ve all been waiting for! Every year, The Bartender’s friends celebrate the Scottish tradition of Burns Night, which honors poet Robert Burns. There is haggis, scotch, tartan, scotch, poems, scotch and toasts. This year Forest Ray was given the task to tell the “Immortal Memory” which revolves around a very naughty poem by Burns. So he wrote a spoof of the very popular and awesome NPR podcast Serial. Here it is! Conceived by Forest Ray and Jordan Kraft, written by Forest Ray, with the vocal stylings of Forest, Jordan, Sharda Sekaran, Suparna Mukherjee, Alex Kveton and yours truly, Katharine, doing her best impersonation of the host of Serial Sarah Koenig (who Katharine just found out is her cousin).

PLUS listener shout out and news about the SECOND AMAZING GUEST for the next Tell The Bartender LIVE! Also, a new episode of the advice show The Bartender co-hosts, The Struggle Bus, is up. Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Andrea recalls a series of events that lead to a major life change, and Forest talks about performing what should have been a simple procedure during his time as an Army medic in Iraq.

PLUS listener shout outs and news about the next Tell The Bartender LIVE! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Frankie joins The Bartender to talk about when she first realized that maybe you shouldn't answer the door when you live alone. Even if it's the lead paint inspector.

Then Liz tells a very touching story about what she learned from her first love. It also involves a filing cabinet.

PLUS listener shout outs and news about the next Tell The Bartender LIVE!

In this Episode:

Shawn joins The Bartender to talk about political discourse in the age of social media, "Racebook", and how he handles situations when the police are involved.

Then Korde tells a story about a funny coincidence that happened when he first moved to New York. It's kind of beautiful, you guys.

PLUS listener shout outs and The Bartender needs your help!

In this Episode:

The Bartender tries to find the true meaning of Thanksgiving. She spoke to her 3 1/2 year old nephew Christian, a friend's 4 1/2 year old daughter Noa, and her friend Simona. They all had some incredible insight. Then Alex tells the story about one particularly interesting Thanksgiving with his family, and manages to sum up the true meaning of this holiday. PLUS listener shout outs and a new episode of The Bartender's advice show with Sally Tamarkin, "The Struggle Bus", is up!

Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

The Bartender is joined by Myka Fox and Keisha Zollar for another wonderful live show. PLUS listener shout outs, and we play Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice! Recorded at UCB East, NY, NY as part of the New York Comedy Festival. Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

David Lawson joins Katharine to tell the story about, well, the worst thing to happen while leading a "Ghost Tour" in a graveyard in Boston. And Lauren Hennessy is back to talk about a scary thing that happened while in a lighting booth for a show. PLUS listener shout outs, and tickets are available for the next LIVE show for the New York Comedy Festival on November 8th! Like what you hear? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this Episode:

The Bartender is joined by herself because her computer somehow lost all of her yet-to-be-released interviews (and all of GarageBand!) so the very special Halloween episode will be up next week BUT Katharine didn't want to leave you hanging. So, for the first time, she is releasing audio from the very personal (and hilarious!) one woman show she did 4 years ago about her (difficult relationship with her) dad. She is very nervous and needs a hug. Enjoy! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

The Bartender is joined by Janeane Garofalo, Mara Wilson and Jeffrey Cranor for another wonderful live show. PLUS listener shout outs, and we play Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice with Jordan McDonough! Recorded at Union Hall in Brooklyn, NY.

In this episode:

Kevin Allison walks us through sexual awakenings in his life, and talks about his first time experimenting with BDSM, polyamory, why he is "The Skipper and not Gilligan", and a class he teaches at Kink Camp. Then Meghan Turbitt gets very personal with The Bartender about the first time she had sex, and Katharine in turn shares a very intimate story with Meghan about her hymen.

PLUS listener shout outs, and news about the next LIVE show for New York ComicCon's Superweek on October 5th at 4:00pm with Janeane Garofalo, Mara Wilson and Jeffrey Cranor! Tickets are available here! Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

In this episode:

The incredibly talented Mychal Denzel Smith is a contributing writer at The Nation, freelances for other major publications, makes frequent appearances on television and is prodigious on Twitter. He also spent four years at a distinguished university but never graduated. This is a story about questioning authority, why it’s so important to do so no matter what the consequences, and, like any great narrative, there is a boat explosion. Ok, he had nothing to do with the boat but he is responsible for some other big things.

PLUS news about the monthly advice show Katharine co-hosts called The Struggle Bus, and tickets are available now for the next Tell The Bartender LIVE brought to you by New York ComicCon's Superweek! Get them here. Like the show? Tip The Bartender! Or give it 5 stars!

The Bartender is joined by Jamie Kilstein and Chris Gethard for another wonderful live show. PLUS a listener shout out, and we play Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice with Shawn T. Andrew! Recorded at Union Hall in Brooklyn, NY.

In this episode:

Bastard Keith and The Bartender get personal about kinks, his sexual journey and awakenings, and how he dealt with a heckler at a burlesque show he was hosting. Also, we cover "water sports", creative one-night stands, new ways to describe various sex acts, and there's a special appearance from our new favorite person Constable Teasebottom. This episode is NSFW but really, none of them are.

In this episode:

Marty Scanlon talks about "The Curry Man" who visits you in your sleep. This is real. And Sally Tamarkin shares a very personal tale about meeting her life long hero under the worst circumstances. PLUS The Bartender tells a story about meeting one of her personal idols AND listener shout-outs, info for some of The Bartender's live shows, and an announcement of a new podcast Katharine will be co-hosting!

In this episode:

Michael Izquierdo went to Canada to relax and work on some creative projects. Canadian immigration had a different idea about who he was. And Jenny Jaffe joins The Bartender to talk about what happens when you don't read the instructions on edible pot chocolate. Let's just say she wasn't quite herself. Sadly, the Canadians didn't get involved.

PLUS listener shout outs, Keith and the Girl and Citizen Radio shout outs, and news about the next live show on August 14th!

In this Episode:

When To Tell The Bartender: Anne Zander used to bartend. She gives some good advice about how not to hit on your server, and speaks from her own personal experience about the one time the tables were turned. It didn't go so well.

The X-Pastor: Sean Tucker used to be a pastor. He talks about the fascinating journey that led him away from the church.

PLUS listener shout outs and an impromptu appearance from Katharine's favorite Twitter Fat Gay Vegan! Like what you hear? Tip me! Or give the show 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Jeffrey Cranor, co-creator of the amazing podcast Welcome To Night Vale, talks to the Bartender about art, writing, performing, and what keeps him going.

PLUS listener shout outs, Keith and the Girl and Citizen Radio shout outs, and a drink of the week inspired by Welcome To Night Vale! Like what you hear? Tip me! Or give the show 5 stars!

In This Episode

Brokedown Dorm Room: Dylan Marron tells us about the time he was caught in a pretty serious drug bust, unbeknownst to him.

UCBanned: Jake Hart was banned from the Upright Citizen's Brigade Theater for a year. He'll explain why.

PLUS listener shout outs!

The bartender is joined by Mara Wilson and Wyatt Cenac for a very special live show about relationships. PLUS listener shout outs, and we play Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice with Matty Blake! Recorded at Union Hall in Brooklyn, NY.

In this Episode:

Evan Davis recalls the first time he did comedy, had sex, and got drunk. This did not all happen in one night.

Coree Spencer tells about the first time she moved out of her house due to impossible circumstances, and found herself homeless at 17.

PLUS, news about the LIVE show on May 8th with Wyatt Cenac and Mara Wilson, and listener shout outs! Like what you hear? Tip me! Or give the show 5 stars!

In this Episode:

Mark Duffy worked in the World Trade Center for 20 years until September 11th, 2001. His son Chris was in school, just a few miles away. The two talk about that day and how they finally found their way home.

On this very special live episode recorded at Union Hall, Brooklyn, the Bartender talks to Janeane Garofalo about comedy, the Puppy Bowl and her new show idea, and the very talented Chris Morris shares a very personal story. PLUS we play Craigslist Ad or Casting Notice with Dan Schachner!

In this special short episode, we talk to Jen Collier, a comedian in London. Last week she received an email that told her she was being pulled from a show because there were "too many women" on the bill. Jen tweeted a screenshot of the email and it quickly went viral. Jen joins the bartender to talk about her sudden online fame, being a woman in comedy, and what it feels like to have Sarah Silverman on your side.