That Sounds Like A Lot with Matt Buechele

Matt kicks things off with his take on Shane Gillis’s SNL monologue, the state of comedy, and his growing suspicion that America has developed a soft spot for mediocrity. Then acclaimed novelist Catherine Lacey joins the show for a conversation about the strange power of fiction, adapting her novel Pew into an opera, and her adventures writing a comedy film. Catherine reflects on turning 40, her writing process and what keeps her coming back to the page. Plus, ghostly encounters in Mexico, her favorite books and why she hopes the Southern accent never disappears. Chapters: 00:00:00 Shane Gillis monologue and modern comedy mediocrity 00:04:12 Catherine Lacey and reading the New Yorker fiction podcast 00:08:18 Book promotion, writing as a job, and stage anxiety 00:12:30 Airplane hijackings and writing a novel about real crime 00:16:30 Tupelo upbringing, religious kid, and early writing ideas 00:20:45 Shakespeare camp, boarding school, and granddad's savings 00:25:30 Religion in fiction and adapting Pew into an opera 00:30:45 Writing plays, a new novel, and pivoting to comedy 00:35:10 Grad school workshop memories with top journalists 00:39:45 Personal exposure in novels and bad TV interviews 00:44:15 Learning Spanish, crying in class, and the limits of foreign humor 00:48:15 The power of fiction and foreign author recommendations 00:53:10 Political splits, ghosts in Oaxaca, and southern accents  Topics: Hermit crab writing process and novel drafting isolation Book tour burnout versus working commercial kitchen shifts Childhood evangelical upbringing in Tupelo Mississippi Shakespeare camp experience with teacher Shaq Van Duzen Hardware store savings funding boarding school education Historical perspective on 1970s Mexican plane hijackings Adapting the novel Pew into a French opera libretto Co-writing a feature comedy screenplay in Mexico City Unlearning New York stress and turning 40 in Mexico Why life is not personal, philosophy in literary fiction FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt danced all night seeing the band Geese at Forest Hills Stadium and shares that getting out, dancing, and sweating alongside other people can be a great antidote to feeling down. Then Matt sits with Scott Rogowsky to revisit the rise and fall of HQ Trivia, the viral moments, what derailed the company, and why Scott is betting his own money on a new live gaming app, Savvy. Plus, they debate whether Phish will ever play the Super Bowl halftime show, who will be the last late-night host standing, and whether the Mets will ever win another World Series. Chapters: 00:00:00 Scott Rogowsky, custom suits, sports card relics, and comedy 00:04:42 Live late-night talk shows to viral internet video formats 00:09:12 Traditional stand-up comedy led to creative freedom 00:13:38 Perfectionism, workaholism, and high-pressure creative careers 00:18:02 Trading cards at Topps to a path in entertainment 00:22:20 Imposter syndrome and making sense of modern digital trends 00:26:48 Rise, cultural phenomenon, and scale of HQ Trivia 00:31:02 BTS chaos, missed career moves, and corporate dysfunction 00:35:30 Trying to save a sinking ship and the birth of the new Savvy app 00:39:58 Nostalgic broadcast history and building a live interactive network 00:41:35 Predictions on the Super Bowl, Phish, late-night television, and the Mets 00:45:00 Live musical interludes, and thoughts on inner peace    Topics: The rise, viral peak, and chaotic collapse of HQ Trivia Self-funding Savvy, a new live interactive game show app Imposter syndrome and the internal conflict of viral success Going on a seven-day phone-free digital detox at the Hoffman Process Quitting stand-up comedy due to OCD and ADHD to pursue live hosting Perfectionism, catastrophizing, and midlife epiphanies Preserving energy, escaping political outrage, letting go FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE  ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele reflects on the state of American politics, the temptation to give in to doom and gloom, and why he still feels hopeful about the future. Then Matt sits down with Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari, the youngest woman serving in Congress. She talks about her Iranian-American family, her work at the United Nations, and the war in Iran. They discuss sanctions and internet access for Iranians, the fight to regulate AI, and the growing backlash against data centers. Yassamin also explains why she thinks Americans need to get more involved in peaceful protest, what Democrats could do if they win the House in the midterms, and why election integrity matters. Plus, Matt and Yassamin make predictions about which pop star might run for Congress, the next big bachelor party destination, and whether Taylor Swift will win an Oscar before Tom Cruise. Chapters: 00:00:00 Rep. Yassamin Ansari on youth in politics and serving in DC 00:04:48 Flight anxiety, Global Citizen Festival trauma, and congressional voting 00:09:02 Iranian heritage, parents fleeing revolution, and American democracy 00:13:31 War with Iran, foreign policy decisions, and military intelligence 00:18:02 Impact of sanctions, internet access, and target limitations 00:22:39 Epstein files, White House situation room, and government oversight 00:27:06 Congressional accountability, subpoena power, and holding leaders responsible 00:31:31 AI risks, data centers, and global technology regulation 00:36:08 Public activism, city council pushback, and fighting voter apathy 00:40:48 Midterm election strategy, election integrity, and youth voter turnout 00:45:04 Unwinding from DC politics, book recommendations, and daily schedule 00:49:49 Scottsdale nightlife, pop culture predictions, and Taylor Swift tour  Topics: Serving as the youngest woman in Congress at age 34. Political career as an Iranian-American Democrat. Mother fleeing the 1979 Iranian revolution. Fragility of civil rights and American democracy. US foreign policy, sanctions, and military action in Iran. White House transparency regarding intelligence and foreign conflicts. Government accountability and the Epstein files cover-up. Existential risks of unregulated artificial intelligence. Local environmental impacts of AI data centers on water and power. Youth political activation and grassroots protest movements. FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot.  FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele spends a rainy weekend inside doing crossword puzzles, complaining about the news, and living like an 85-year-old. Then Matt sits down with musician and comedian Kyle Gordon to talk about going from UCB improv and making dumb songs with friends to accidentally going viral with “Planet of the Bass” – and the backlash that followed from fans and even Rolling Stone. Kyle also gets into his new album Kyle Gordon Is Everywhere, getting jacked for a Christmas song, and traveling to Eswatini to shoot “Mr. Jambo.” Plus, they make predictions about bras being thrown onstage, Taylor Swift’s next album, and whether Paul McCartney or Mick Jagger will live longer. Chapters: 00:00:00 Kyle Gordon on viral songs, tour prep, and losing his voice 00:04:48 Live show stage elements and touring new cities 00:09:02 Learning production, making beats, and early parody influences 00:13:31 Cutting his teeth doing live comedy and improv at UCB 00:18:02 Running marathons and taking time for mental clarity 00:22:39 Fitness culture, ultramarathons, and extreme haunted houses 00:27:06 Experiences in immersive theater and dating an actress 00:31:31 Parent reactions to viral success and writing genre parodies 00:36:08 Planet of the Bass virality, fan controversies, and music video rollouts 00:40:48 Getting in shape for the Steinman-inspired Christmas song video 00:45:04 Shooting the Mr. Jambo music video on location in Africa 00:49:49 Predictions on tour energy and Taylor Swift's next album release Topics: Kyle Gordon tour and vocal strain Making hip-hop beats in Cubase Flight of the Conchords impact Improv background at UCB and Magnet Distance running as a meditation Planet of the Bass viral rollout Filming Mr Jambo music video Extreme haunted house experiences Americana Heartland rock parody New album release and tour plans FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele goes to a sweet sixteen and gets a front-row seat to the strange world of teenage birthday parties, complete with photo booths, the Cupid Shuffle, and an alarming number of boys with the same haircut. Then Matt sits down with Emmy-nominated writer and comedian Nimesh Patel to talk about becoming a dad, turning down a $120k comedy gig in Saudi Arabia, and his complicated relationship with money. They discuss how Chris Rock saw Nimesh perform and, three months later he was writing for the Oscars, followed by a year at Saturday Night Live. Nimesh also talks about his new Netflix special Buy the Dip, political comedy, crowd work, family group chats, and finding ways to make people laugh about complicated subjects without talking down to them. Plus, Matt and Nimesh make predictions about AI comedy festivals, celebrity advertising, and if the Knicks players will visit the White House. Chapters: 00:00:00 Nimesh Patel’s Netflix special Buy the Dip and economic anxiety 00:05:01 Comedy in Louisiana and examining political divides 00:10:02 Political views, family, and dealing with media chaos 00:15:01 Fatherhood, playing basketball, and mental resets 00:20:01 How Chris Rock discovered Nimesh Patel in a Brooklyn bar 00:25:01 Writing for Saturday Night Live's Weekend Update 00:30:01 Pitching sketches at SNL and learning industry lessons 00:35:01 Navigating political comedy during the Trump era  00:40:01 Nimesh's new Netflix special and handling the family group chat 00:45:01 Audience behavior during stand-up shows and comedy craft 00:50:01 AI comedy festivals, polymarket, and celebrity endorsement deals 00:52:57 Predicting the New York Knicks White House visit  Topics:  Chris Rock discovering Nimesh Patel Writing for Saturday Night Live First Indian writer in SNL history Turning down $125k for a show in Saudi Arabia Fatherhood and financial ethics The strategy behind crowd work Highlights from Buy the Dip special Economic anxiety and supply chains Media capture and political debates Celebrity ads and sports betting FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot  FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/  ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele heads to the US Open, drinks a few Honey Deuces, and learns about Heineken Silver. Then Matt sits down with comedian and writer Andrew Collin to talk about gambling addiction and going too hard in Atlantic City. They discuss Andrew’s work with Nikki Glaser, opening for her across Europe, going from Knoxville to Paris, and the differences between American and European comedy audiences. They also get into stand-up in the age of crowd-work clips, the pressure to constantly feed the algorithm, writing political comedy without becoming a political commentator, and why it can feel impossible to stop chasing the next thing. Plus, they make predictions about prediction markets, the Super Bowl halftime show, and pumpkin spice drinks. Chapters: 00:00:00 Learning instruments and faking orchestra performances 00:04:08 Bonding with family over Meat Loaf and Tom Petty concerts 00:08:22 Finding comfort in boredom and sports vs. arts culture 00:11:03 Weddings at Mar-A-Lago and growing up in Florida 00:16:30 College blackjack addiction and getting shot at by a bird 00:20:07 Sports gambling apps and writing for the Golden Globes 00:23:02 European tour stories and testing French jokes on stage 00:27:00 Writing on the Tom Brady roast and changing stand-up culture 00:30:15 Navigating social media pressure and joke writing processes 00:35:33 Political comedy, Trump fatigue, and outrage in late night 00:40:02 Predicting the future of prediction markets and Super Bowl acts 00:44:48 Discussing open mic culture and starting over on podcasts Topics:  Fake playing cello in school orchestra Bonding over Meatloaf with his father Growing up Jewish in rural Florida Attending an all-Christian school College gambling and blackjack addiction Performing standup comedy in Paris Clip culture and crowd work impact Writing jokes for the Tom Brady roast Navigating NYC real estate and rent Polymarket and Super Bowl predictions FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele spots Zohran Mamdani riding his bicycle through the park with four guys in suits, kind of like The Sandlot, but with city government. Then he sits down with filmmaker, writer, director, and producer Jonah Feingold to talk about his new movie Busboys, starring Theo Von and David Spade. They chat about Jonah’s childhood obsession with Hook, his internship with Hans Zimmer, his love of 1940s comedies, and why he decided to stop waiting for Hollywood to give him permission to make things. Plus, Matt and Jonah make predictions about the next You’ve Got Mail, the future of dating shows, and never working with AI actors. Chapters: 00:00:00 Directing Busboys starring Theo Von and David Spade 00:03:22 Navigating dyslexia and reading classic books for writing 00:07:38 Finding inspiration in 1940s screwball comedies 00:13:00 Script writing process and leather notebook hierarchy 00:16:38 Childhood obsession with Captain Hook and character costumes 00:20:02 Analyzing Disney World Imagineering and fandom culture 00:24:21 Interning for Hans Zimmer and observing famous directors 00:29:01 Collaborating with film composers on custom character themes 00:30:33 Landing the job to direct Busboys for Hulu 00:36:37 Independent filmmaking hustle and securing brand sponsorships 00:41:02 Launching Romantic media brand and pitching new scripts 00:46:15 Movie predictions and modern rom com reboots Topics:  Jonah Feingold on directing Busboys Interning for composer Hans Zimmer Writing scripts with dyslexia Influence of 1940s screwball comedy Pitching and financing indie films Working with David Spade and Theo Von Creating character themes with music The reality of Hollywood spec deals Building the romantic media brand Disney World design and fandom culture FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele wonders whether American capitalism has finally become too absurd to parody.  Then Matt sits down with actor, writer, and comedian Liza Treyger to talk about expensive handbags, her obsession with Heated Rivalry, and how the show inspired her to brush up on her Russian. They discuss her newfound love of reading, and why books have changed the way she writes and sees the world. Liza and Matt also get into why podcast bros appeal to men, women’s increasing independence, and the strange power of celebrity culture. Plus, they make predictions about THC-infused food, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, and whether America could one day elect a comedian president. Chapters: 00:00:00 Buying a $3,000 YSL bag for a book 00:03:48 Obsessing over Heated Rivalry  00:07:22 Finding 1 of 8 designer bags in the country 00:11:03 Social media addiction and Soviet Ukraine roots 00:15:08 Hiring a Russian professor to book auditions 00:18:22 Olivia Wilde, Keke Palmer, and talking shit 00:21:48 Male entitlement and why men fear single women 00:25:47 Trump, political comedy, and the Reagan effect 00:29:16 Matt reveals his Law & Order SVU history 00:33:06 Reading books to cure creative depression 00:37:05 THC salami and Taylor Swift wedding gossip 00:41:00 Choosing Wanda Sykes for president  Topics: Buying a luxury bag for a book Obsessing over Heated Rivalry fandom Learning Russian for acting roles Soviet Ukraine roots and identity Male entitlement and incel culture Critiquing podcasters and politics Host reveals Law & Order SVU history How reading books cured depression THC salami and celebrity gossip Nominating Wanda Sykes for president FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele has been catcalled twice by the same mysterious man on a Citi Bike and wonders what, exactly, you’re supposed to do when someone yells “great ass” directly into your ear.  Then Matt sits down with comedian Caitlin Peluffo to talk about her experience on Netflix’s Funny AF with Kevin Hart, including the challenge of roasting Marshawn Lynch and making it to the finale. They discuss Caitlin’s unconventional path from performance art to stand-up, what it’s like watching her career take off, therapy, growing up Catholic, dating, and the dangers of spending too much time on your phone. Plus, Matt and Caitlin make predictions about subway dicks, meeting the Pope, and the next big dating-app gimmick. Chapters: 00:00:00 Caitlin Peluffo, city life, and early success 00:04:37 Small comforts, travel routines, and touring North Carolina 00:07:26 Handling canceled shows, burnout, and starting therapy 00:11:38 Auditioning for Netflix's Funny AF and reality TV psych evals 00:16:05 Roasting Marshawn Lynch on television while he had the mic 00:20:38 Handling sudden public recognition and fan interactions 00:22:37 College soccer at UCSD and pursuing fine arts degrees 00:26:06 Experiential art projects and discovering stand-up comedy 00:32:21 Zodiac signs, tongue readings, and encounters with psychics 00:37:41 Catholic upbringing, family politics, and childhood road trips 00:45:31 Screen time habits, social media anxiety, and career pressure 00:49:16 Future predictions, public urinals, and post-show tour plans Topics: Auditioning and competing on Netflix's Funny AF How therapy helped Caitlin relax before sets Overcoming childhood anxiety about reading out loud Roasting NFL legend Marshawn Lynch on live TV Getting in trouble for slapping a dead pig at Pratt Taking beta blockers to prevent stage anxiety Performing on Fallon and her dad's funny reaction Shifting from college soccer at UCSD to stand-up Handling weird and creepy DMs from viral crowd work Selling out the historic Gramercy Theater in NYC FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele attends a City Hall wedding and wonders whether love is real and lasting or simply about finding someone to ride the life roller coaster with when the world gets scary. Then Matt sits down with comedian Chloe Radcliffe to talk about her journey from managing soda inventory at Target to stand-up, screenwriting, and her solo show Cheat. They discuss speech and debate, finding comedy after getting laid off, writing a movie for a major studio before knowing how to write a movie, and the terrifying experience of realizing nobody in the room knows what they’re doing. Chloe also opens up about cheating, monogamy, desire, emotional affairs, and why turning the worst parts of yourself into comedy can feel like a form of bloodletting. Chapters: 00:00:00 Chloe Radcliffe, screenwriting, phone addiction, hometowns 00:05:25 Overcoming phone addiction and managing career anxiety  00:11:07 Channeling ambitious energy into stand-up comedy and writing  00:17:12 Transitioning from speech and debate to comedy stages  00:22:45 Navigating corporate life at Target HQ and supply chain work  00:28:10 Leaving corporate supply chain for full-time comedy  00:33:50 Selling movie pitches to Sony without experience 00:39:25 Invisible industry work and Hollywood screenwriting realities  00:44:50 Creating the solo show Cheat and sharing radical honesty  00:50:15 Exploring emotional cheating and the psychology of infidelity  00:55:40 Examining love versus desire in modern relationships  01:01:05 Baby talk and lack of dishonesty impact relationships Topics: Managing soda inventory at target hq Speech and debate as comedy training Pitching to Sony without experience Learning studio screenwriting on the job Managing screen time and phone habits Compulsive radical honesty with bosses Origin of the solo comedy show Cheat Sleeping with the FedEx delivery guy Navigating love vs. sexual desire Defining the lines of emotional affairs FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele talks about influencer culture, a corgi who became internet-famous from inside a backpack, and the strange ways the internet shapes how we see ourselves and each other. Then Matt sits down with comedian, writer, and podcast host Akilah Hughes to talk about her podcast, Rebel Spirit, which follows her return to her Kentucky high school to push for replacing its Confederate mascot with a biscuit. They discuss why people hold onto Confederate symbols, and the challenge of changing traditions. They also reminisce about their Saturday Night Live auditions and talk about internet outrage, parasocial relationships, and when to stop taking the internet’s bait. Chapters: 00:00:00 Akilah Hughes, What a Day podcast, career pivots 00:04:14 Discussing Rebel Spirit and historical mascot debates 00:08:03 Examining public reactions to monument removal and social change 00:13:19 Navigating life in New York versus California 00:17:06 Reflecting on hosting news podcasts during turbulent times 00:22:50 Auditioning for Saturday Night Live during the pandemic 00:31:58 Facing the challenges of acting auditions and industry dynamics 00:36:24 Unpacking internet outrage and online commentary 00:41:29 Debating parasocial obsession and body image in social media 00:46:25 Playing small D energy with political tropes 00:51:41 Predicting the next viral internet animal 00:55:08 Guessing future video game characters and political figures Topics: Akilah Hughes: comedy and podcasting The pandemic SNL audition process on Zoom Changing the rebel high school mascot Auditioning for Colin Jost & Michael Che Hollywood’s struggle with podcasting Impact of southern history & statues Ariana grande, body image culture, media gaslighting Work life in NYC vs. Los Angeles Predicting the next viral character on Fortnite FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele has a message: go out. Say yes to the party, text back that Hinge match, find the afters, and stop letting your phone become your entire social life. It’s time to raise the Q3 numbers, bring back bacchanalia, and fight back against a year that’s been screwing us all. Former New York City Comptroller and Democratic mayoral candidate Brad Lander joins Matt to talk about the wild year that took him from being arrested at an ICE protest to becoming the Democratic nominee for Congress. He tells Matt what happened when he tried to help an immigrant leaving immigration court, why he chose to cross-endorse Zohran Mamdani in the NY mayoral race, and how he learned to put the team ahead of his own political ambitions. Plus, Brad and Matt talk about Eric Adams, the future of New York, housing, public schools, and Brad’s surprisingly strong opinions on fizzy iced coffee. Topics: NYC political career and campaign ICE protests and civil disobedience Immigration and economic drivers Lessons from the NYC mayoral race Ranked choice voting strategy Housing costs and rent affordability Public transit and infrastructure Education and school integration Foreign policy and Middle East stance Predictions on politics and NYC trends FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele explores the strange cultural phenomenon of turning adorable animals into internet celebrities, why we become so invested in their lives, and what happens when our favorite feel-good stories start competing with an endless stream of bad news. Then Matt is joined by writer, comedian, and actor Gil Ozeri, whose uniquely absurd comedy has made him a cult favorite through his legendary Snapchat videos, Big Mouth, Happy Endings, Comedy Bang! Bang!, and more. They talk about committing completely to a bit, creating comedy that's impossible to describe until you experience it, his unforgettable Bane impression, and the long, weird path to making a career out of making people laugh. They also discuss letting go of perfectionism, surviving a rapidly changing entertainment industry, and Gil makes predictions about the future of The Simpsons, Toy Story, and which fast-food chain is primed for a comeback. Chapters: 00:00:00 Shooting new show 100% with Nick Kroll 00:02:37 Surreal Snapchat videos and early bits 00:08:06 Creating absurd brand sponsorships 00:13:54 Commitment to committing to the bit 00:19:15 Breaking into comedy writing in your 30s 00:24:32 Navigating TV writers rooms 00:30:10 Improv training and early stage career 00:35:48 Pitching TV shows in Hollywood 00:41:15 Writing for Big Mouth and animated TV 00:46:30 Evolution of internet comedy and social media 00:52:10 Iconic Comedy Bang Bang impressions 00:57:25 Fast food marketing and subway rebranding Topics:  Shooting new show with Nick Kroll    Surreal Snapchat comedy bits    Creating absurd brand sponsorships    The art of committing to the bit    Breaking into TV writing in your 30s    Navigating Hollywood writers' rooms    Improv roots and early stage career    Pitching original TV shows    Writing for Big Mouth & animation    Iconic Comedy Bang Bang impressions    FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele imagines what The Odyssey would look like if it were directed by some of Hollywood’s biggest filmmakers. From Paul Thomas Anderson, Ryan Coogler and Wes Anderson, to Quentin Tarantino, Yorgos Lanthimos, Emerald Fennell, Martin Scorsese, and Guillermo del Toro, he reimagines Homer’s epic through each director’s unmistakable style. Then Matt sits down with comedian and writer Tess Gattuso to talk about stepping away from social media and what brought her back. They discuss making comedy in the age of algorithms, building a creative career, caring for loved ones with dementia, the frustrations of the American healthcare system, political activism, wellness culture, neurodiversity, and why real-life community matters more than ever. Chapters: 00:00:00 Tess Gattuso multi-talents must stay optimistic 00:05:14 Buffy the Vampire Slayer and 30 Rock influences 00:10:59 High school activism and finding your voice 00:15:54 Systemic failures in the American healthcare system 00:19:14 Why I quit social media at my career peak 00:24:53 Reclaiming your nervous system from the internet 00:30:44 Behind the scenes of launching Barbie’s TikTok 00:36:55 Navigating political polarization in comedy 00:42:08 The rise of McWellness and health grifters 00:46:35 Medical gaslighting and the 10-year diagnosis loop 00:53:51 Surviving Hollywood with delusional belief in your work 01:01:48 Navigating a career with an ADHD diagnosis Topics: Quitting social media at its peak Managing digital burnout and health Behind the scenes: Barbie TikTok Activism and writing with Jane Fonda The 10-year diagnosis loop for women Systemic failures in US healthcare Caregiving for paranoid schizophrenia Delusional belief in creative work Modern LA wellness culture and robots ADHD diagnosis and neurodivergence FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele breaks down how Congress keeps getting older, but nobody seems to have a plan for what happens when elected officials freeze mid-speech, disappear for months, or quietly leave office without anyone noticing. He also gets into the growing trend of family members stepping in to keep political dynasties alive, and argues that if you’re asking the country to trust you with the government, the least you can do is let us know where you are. Then, comedian, songwriter, and The Tonight Show writer Brooks Allison joins Matt for a conversation about comedy, music, and what happened after “Planet of the Bass” became a Billboard-charting hit. They talk about writing for late-night TV, chasing creative ideas, confess their favorite ways to procrastinate (including Grand Theft Auto), and explain why posting sincere music online can be scarier than telling jokes. Chapters: 00:00:00 Brooks Allison, Comedy glow-ups and splurging on gear 00:05:07 Performing live comedy vs. late night writing 00:10:13 The viral success of Planet of the Bass 00:15:18 Behind the scenes at the the Tonight Show 00:20:20 The realities of late night tv production 00:25:26 Internet culture, outrage, and goldfish brains 00:30:32 Navigating work mistakes and corporate culture 00:35:34 Brooks Allison’s solo music and balancing creative work 00:40:36 High school music nostalgia and loving The Shins  00:45:39 Unwinding with video games and living with cats 00:50:41 Future career predictions Topics: Fan of late night to TV writer Writer on strike in 2023 Splurging on a $3,000 Gibson guitar The stress of walking cats in public Writing for The Tonight Show Making the viral Planet of the Bass How the internet ruined our focus Houston Cougars sports fans Nostalgia for The Shins  FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele takes aim at the political double standards that are driving the country apart, asking why some scandals end careers while others barely register. From Graham Platner’s failed Senate campaign to President Trump’s $5 million civil judgment, what does accountability even mean anymore? Fred Armisen joins Matt in Los Angeles to talk about filming Wednesday in Ireland, the enduring magic of Hollywood, self-driving cars, and why no one notices the things you’re most self-conscious about. They also dive into Saturday Night Live, with Fred sharing stories about legendary castmates, sketches that bombed, the surprising origins of “The Californians,” and returning for the show’s 50th anniversary. Plus, they discuss music, Devo, the B-52s, and Fred’s 100 Sound Effects album before wrapping up with a round of predictions about Lorne Michaels, UFOs, and Broadway. Chapters: 00:00:00 Fred Armisen, Wednesday S3, and Studio Magic 00:05:42 Waymo Logistics and Bullying Delivery Robots 00:11:30 Mastering the Perfect Fred Armisen Impression 00:17:15 Pitching "The Snob Test" Reality TV Idea 00:23:00 The Genius of the 2000s SNL Cast 00:28:45 Behind the Scenes of The Californians Sketch 00:34:30 Backstage at the SNL 50th Anniversary 00:40:15 Drumming for Devo and the B-52s Live 00:46:00 Pittsburgh Hype and the Stomp Clap Hey Era 00:51:45 Creating the 100 Sound Effects Album 00:57:30 Lorne Michaels and the Future of SNL 01:03:15 UFO Skepticism and Broadway Musical Dreams Topics: Filming Wednesday Season 3 in Ireland Survival tips for New York subways The danger of LA delivery robots Pitching The Snob Test reality show Inside the SNL genius all-star cast How The Californians became a hit Drumming for Devo and B-52s live Why Lorne Michaels won't retire The era of Stomp Clap Hey music UFOs and why aliens are bored of us FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

America just turned 250, and Matt Buechele argues that it doesn't need another culture war—it needs a constitutional rewrite. His proposed amendments tackle everything from celebrity gambling ads and AI data centers to Supreme Court term limits. Then he sits down with writer, performer, and solo-show mastermind Gabe Mollica to talk about friendship, ambition, changing careers, and the strange challenge of figuring out what kind of creative life you actually want. They get into stand-up comedy, working in television for the first time, Sondheim musicals, horse lawyers, reality TV, and the surprisingly powerful feeling of finding the right creative collaborators. Topics: Working 12-hour days on a tv staff Opening set for a future J-6 rioter Booking standup sets at hostels Moving from bar shows to solo specials Using TV writing to fund my part Millennials and the marriage dilemma Being featured on This American Life The hierarchy of 50 US states Father’s career as a horse lawyer A handwritten letter from sondheim Working for Matthew Gray Gubler Writing for the creator of Monk SNL, Tina Fey, and Lorne Michaels predictions Chapters: 00:00:00 Working for the creator of Monk on Einstein 00:05:38 Why comedy club pay is stuck in 1979 00:10:50 How politics and Trump killed creative optimism 00:15:48 The luxury of being pampered on a network TV set 00:20:58 Sitting at coffee shops and writing jokes 00:26:30 Designing roads to keep people out of New York 00:31:41 The raw energy of early reality television 00:36:44 Watching my father achieve a 30-year dream at 50 00:42:11 Why Whiplash is the ultimate movie for artists 00:47:32 Searching for pretty melodies in the woods 00:53:01 Pitching a high-concept jukebox musical in reverse 00:58:36 Predicting if Lorne Michaels will ever actually retire FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele breaks down Washington's mysterious reflecting pool saga, why America suddenly can't stop talking about the color of swamp water, and the surprising symbolism of a government struggling to fix a reflecting pool. He also reports back from Los Angeles, where self-driving cars, delivery robots, and eerily empty sidewalks make New York feel almost normal. Then he sits down with creator and Brooklyn Coffee Shop star Pooja Tripathi to talk about leaving a career in fashion, discovering comedy later in life, weird temp jobs, improv classes, internet fame, and building one of the internet's most beloved comedy series from a tiny Brooklyn coffee shop. They also get into Japan, social media brain rot, comment-section warfare, and why embarrassment is usually a sign you're headed in the right direction. Chapters: 00:00:00 Why creator Pooja Tripathi quit her dream job 00:06:22 When the self-serious fashion world got old  00:18:40 Turning a green screen sketch into a viral hit series 00:24:42 Why being embarrassing is a creative superpower 00:30:56 The extreme rise of male beauty standards 00:36:12 Industry gatekeepers and the "Too niche" Myth 00:42:10 My chill boss was working two secret jobs 00:49:10 Why the world of improv comedy is so nerdy 00:55:13 International vs global production costs 01:01:21 Comparing the noise of New York City to Japan cities 01:07:41 Predicting the first influencer brand trip to space Topics:  Quitting a corporate fashion career at Bloomingdale's  The logistical absurdity of filming in Tokyo vs Kansas City  Why improv feels like a trap  Dealing with modern social media comments  The rise of leg lengthening surgery for men  Japan’s cleanliness and quiet vs NYC  Treating TikTok like high-end HBO productions  Predicting the first influencer brand trips to outer space  Being an only child prepares you for comedy FOLLOW THE SHOW  ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/   ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell   ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele breaks down the World Cup coming to America, the shared confusion of getting to MetLife Stadium, and why international visitors keep looking at American food like it's a science experiment. He also takes on primary election season, campaign spam, and the annual transformation of abandoned storefronts into political headquarters nobody asked for. Then he sits down with writer, actor, and internet icon Brenda Cullerton for a conversation about New York in the 1970s, accidentally building a creative life by following curiosity instead of a plan, and why making things with people you like is still one of life's greatest pleasures. Along the way, they get into writing copy for Star Wars toys, tarot cards, stand-up comedy, social media brain rot, the surprising upside of living rich and dying poor, and whether America is actually getting dumber or if we're just filming it more. Topics : Writing star wars copy in the seventies Being the secret voice of darth vader Living in a ninety-five dollar studio Why remote work is a virtual prison The value of peaking late in a career Navigating nyc fashion and elitism Handling creative rejection and hubris The terror of bad tarot card readings  Chapters: 00:00:00 Brenda Cullerton paid $95 a month for a studio in Gramercy Park 00:03:48 Writing for Darth Vader and Office Habits 00:10:03 Politics and Common Sense 00:15:12 The Approachable Coastal Elite 00:20:49 Handling Creative Criticism 00:25:46 Rejection and Artistic Failure 00:30:31 Birthday Drama and Boundaries 00:35:24 Tarot Readings and Curses 00:40:30 NYC Mayor and Local Politics 00:43:45 The Strait of Vermouth and Geography 00:48:54 Modern Education and 80K Tuition 00:55:17 Summer Predictions and Closing FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/   ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot   FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/  ►TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell  ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele celebrates the New York Knicks' historic Finals comeback, the return of civic pride to New York City, and why a basketball team might be doing a better job bringing Americans together than just about anything else right now. Then he sits down with comedian Fumi Abe to talk about growing up in Ohio after immigrating from Japan, the strange economics of stand-up comedy, touring with TikTok stars, marching band humiliation, cross-country crushes, and what happens when a comedy writer suddenly starts making enough money to ignore parking tickets. They also get into late night TV, social media fame, upstate New York, and why the true sign of success might just be buying the expensive rice. Topics: Life as a touring stand-up comedian Writing for James Corden in Los Angeles Performing on Fallon and Colbert Internet viral culture changing comedy  Secrets of late night TV writing Creating comedy inspired by everyday life Hot takes with Fumi Abe Making it big on the internet Chapters: 00:00:00 Fumi Abe’s viral podcast clip story 00:05:45 Touring revenue and quitting writing jobs 00:11:30 Performance of wealth in LA and Upstate New York 00:17:15 Making internet jokes work on a comedy stage 00:23:00 Growing up in Ohio and high school sports 00:28:45 Being an organic folk drummer in Brother Goose 00:34:30 Leaving music business for the comedy grind 00:40:15 Navigating social media and getting older fans 00:46:00 Experience writing for James Corden in LA 00:51:45 Stand-up sets on Fallon and Colbert 00:57:30 Comedy writing process and the urologist bit 01:03:15 Predictions for self-driving cars and airplanes FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele breaks down why tiny indie films with names that sound like shuttered strip clubs are suddenly beating massive studio franchises at the box office, and why audiences seem increasingly desperate for something that doesn't feel focus-grouped to death.  Then he sits down with Kareem Rahma to talk about building Subway Takes into an internet institution, the weird economics of making things online, arguing with commenters, country-house dad life, late night TV's future, and the challenge of making meaningful art while still paying the bills. They also get into New York, burnout, family, and Kareem's political philosophy: if you want to be rich, be rich — we'll take care of the rest. TOPICS COVERED: Keep the Meter Running with Kareem Rahma Shooting on NYC trains Why creators need security From digital creator to producer Viral burnout and fame Future of late night on YouTube Will digital creators win Emmys A one billion dollar wealth cap CHAPTERS: 00:00 Kareem Rahma on shooting Subway Takes 04:40 Filming with security and getting recognized 09:20 Building the New Hollywood in New York 14:00 Why the digital creator label is frustrating 18:40 Fame and the dream of being a one hit wonder 23:20 Comparing traditional late night to YouTube 28:00 Why digital shows need brand deals and ads 32:40 Dealing with viral comments and internet culture 37:20 Personal life and providing for family 42:00 The Socialist Capitalism political party idea 46:40 Running for mayor and 2028 election predictions 51:20 The future of awards and driverless cars in NYC FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social #KeepTheMeterRunning #SubwayTakes #NewHollywood #SmallTownMayor #LateNightFuture #WriterVsCreator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele breaks down the New York Knicks making the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years, the terrifying possibility of a Manhattan championship riot, and the upcoming UFC fight on the White House lawn featuring a lineup that feels suspiciously close to a county fair sponsored by Monster Energy. Then he sits down with comedian and writer Alexandria Love to talk about surviving late night TV, sharing a tiny office at The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, New York slowly turning you into a louder person, comedy partnerships, sports betting apps, Taylor Swift discourse, and trying to build a creative career while the entertainment industry melts in real time. Topics Covered:  Working for the Tonight Show and being in writer’s room Moving from Oakland to LA and surviving the industry How professional friction builds career skills. Why late-night TV feels like the Titanic. Revisiting the bits that didn’t make the air. Predictions for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Deleting dating apps and modern dating. The rise of AI therapists and digital habits. Oscars: Michael B. Jordan vs. Timothée Chalamet Chapters: 00:00:00 NYC culture and meeting Alexandria Love 00:05:00 Writing for the Tonight Show and After Midnight 00:10:27 Career advice: how professional friction builds skills 00:16:14 The future of the late night TV industry 00:21:00 Stand-up comedy vs. digital content production 00:27:16 Taylor Swift’s new album and pop culture review 00:32:42 Career transitions: from law school to comedy 00:38:53 The reality of living in New York vs. Los Angeles 00:44:17 Behind the scenes: the Tonight Show writer’s room 00:51:50 2026 predictions: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce 00:57:27 Dating app trends and deleting the Feeld app 01:02:07 Oscar predictions: Michael B. Jordan vs. Timothée Chalamet #AlexandriaLove #ProfessionalFriction #ComedyWriter #TaylorSwiftHotTakes #ModernDating #JordanVsChalamet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele breaks down Trump’s mysterious $2 billion “slush fund,” why no trustworthy operation has ever used the phrase “slush fund,” and the growing trend of college graduates booing AI commencement speeches delivered by men who look like they own underground bunkers in New Zealand. Then he sits down with filmmaker Celine Song to talk about modern masculinity, internet identity, vulnerability in art, adapting The Seagull in The Sims 4 on Twitch, and their shared addiction to Fortnite and other deeply time-consuming video games. Topics covered:  Personality tests, identity, and labels Social skills and meaningful connections “Past Lives” misinterpretations  Heroic masculinity and men behaving well  Challenging the trope of male characters as lazy or villainous  Consent culture vs. rape culture  The pandemic and creative transitions  The haenyeo, elderly Korean free-divers Addictive personalities and gaming culture  Writing, directing, and acting  Chapters:  00:00:00 Critiquing AI obsession and modern tech culture 00:02:53 Celine Song on astrology and Virgo personality traits 00:05:48 The importance of reading the room and social skills 00:09:10 Vulnerability and open-hearted communication 00:14:00 Why "Past Lives" is not a love triangle movie 00:15:47 The problem with internet film discourse and movie reviews 00:17:35 Depicting heroic masculinity and men behaving well in cinema 00:22:57 Historical context of consent culture and generational decency 00:30:00 The impact of the 2020 pandemic on theater and playwriting 00:37:00 Directing Chekhov’s "The Seagull" inside The Sims 4 00:43:20 Hardcore gaming: Fortnite, Elden Ring, and addictive creativity 00:54:40 Movie franchise predictions and voice acting careers FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele breaks down the impossible cost of modern life, and why everything feels like a luxury experience or a gambling app. Then, on his way to jury duty, Matt reflects on America’s inability to sit quietly in a room for three hours without pretending to be racist to get out of it. Then he sits down with writer and journalist Chloé Cooper Jones for a conversation about chaotic weekends in upstate New York, swimming in lakes that may or may not heal you spiritually, and the strange intimacy of male friendship. They also talk about disability, ambition, why reading is sexy, and the freedom that comes with getting old enough to stop caring what strangers think of you. Topics covered:  - The Fiddler on the Roof audition  - Disability in the media - Writing for the 14-year-old self - Looksmaxxing & longevity biohacking through reading - The “saintly” trap & disability as inevitability  - The labor of being seen - Mortal peril as a love language - The Anti-Inspiration Narrative - G-suite infidelity Chapters: 00:00:00 Dynamic Pricing and the Rising Cost of Living  00:01:26 Matt’s Jury Duty Experience  00:03:13 The Used Swim Goggles Gift  00:05:28 The Farm Stand Fiasco & "Trump Ate My Dog" Shirt  00:11:52 Lake Minnewaska and the "Pearl vs. Maniac" Dynamic  00:17:17 Running 18 Miles to the Beaches of Normandie  00:25:22 Growing Up in Kansas and the Power of Libraries  00:31:38 The Theater Audition That Changed Everything  00:40:42 Rejecting Expectations and Chloe's "Easy Beauty" Memoir  00:58:04 Dilemmas: Sharing a Car with an Ex & G-Suite Infidelity  01:08:55 Teaching Writing at Columbia and the Reality of AI  01:18:19 Final Predictions: Politics, Handwriting, and Florida  FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/  ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot  FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/  ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell  ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele rants through the escalating Iran conflict, Operation Epic Fury, the collapse of Spirit Airlines, and why it suddenly feels like Americans are paying more for everything while somehow getting the bolted-down lawn chair version of life. Then he sits down with comedian Jay Jurden to talk about accidentally wandering into the Ralph Lauren mansion on the Upper East Side, the changing comedy landscape, internet masculinity, growing up queer in Mississippi, and why suddenly every man in his 30s seems to be on Propecia. Topics: - Luxury fever dreams - Consumerism vs. longevity - The "death of expertise" - The manosphere pipeline - Captive audiences and "murder world" death machines. - Men’s maintenance era - Crypto is chlamydia - Pixelated sexual awakenings - The mandatory metropolitan draft - Remarkable vs. Relatable - The "Sheriff of the C-Train" - Aging and persistence - Comedic predictions CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Operation Epic Fury and the Spirit Airlines Rosary 00:06:33 The Vacation Tax: Mississippi Parents vs. London Weddings 00:13:45 The Death of Expertise: Why Vibes Ruined the Skillset 00:19:30 Being Remarkable vs. Relatable: The Magician's Craft 00:26:03 The Mr. Beast Pipeline and the Rise of Aggrieved Youth 00:32:30 From AOL Chatrooms to the Mandatory Metropolitan Draft 00:39:01 American Ninja Industry: Holding onto the Next Career Grip 00:45:30 Commercials for Opinions: Readjusting Post-2020 Expectations 00:52:42 Crypto is Chlamydia: Captchas and Investment Red Flags 00:58:45 The Men's Maintenance Era: Propecia and Aging Gracefully 01:04:36 Luxury Grievances: The Delta One TSA Disaster 01:11:30 The Accidental Boomer and Predicting the First Queer NBA Star That Sounds Like A Lot is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions and Port Royale in partnership with Vox Media and AND Media. Music by Matt Buechele. FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Buechele walks-and-talks his way through the White House Correspondents' Dinner chaos, the case for adding ballrooms to every school in America, and why we've gotten numb to political violence to the point that half the country just calls it staged. This is That Sounds Like a Lot, the show where comedian Matt Buechele breaks down the news of the week (even when it’s way too much) and talks to interesting people about what’s actually worth paying attention to. This week, Matt sits down with comedian and author Zach Zimmerman to talk about dating apps (Zach is a bi king now), attachment styles, and growing up around conservative religion. Topics - Body image and online presence - Dating, bisexuality, and polyamory - Attachment styles and over-pathologizing - Religious upbringings and family dynamics - Standup, career motivation, and creative risk - Phones, attention, and “the brick” - Consumer rewards, coffee, and everyday economics - Substances: weed, gummies, and shrooms - Listener advice - “too much” or manageable situations - Zach’s new book: Ship Mother and parent-child reconciliation - Art-making in dark times and “hope as a discipline” - Comedic predictions CHAPTERS 00:00:00 White House Correspondence Dinner and Gunman Manifestos 00:03:00 Zach Zimmerman on the Video Podcast Body Reveal 00:04:59 Entering the Bi King Era and Dating App Boundaries 00:07:55 Roasting Matt Buechele’s Avoidant Attachment Style 00:13:02 The Pastor to Comedian Pipeline and Religious Upbringing 00:18:32 Using the Brick Phone to Kill the Scroll 00:21:35 The Aging Crisis and Creative Resistance 00:26:05 Dunkin Rewards Point Inflation and Loyalty Program Betrayal 00:34:24 That Sounds Like A Lot Construction Worker Woods Poop 00:41:27 Ship Mother and the Chaos of a Bermuda Cruise 00:53:29 Hope is a Discipline and Creating Art During a War 01:01:46 The Protestant Theology of the Rapture and Vanishing People That Sounds Like A Lot is produced by Rabbit Grin Productions and Port Royale in partnership with Vox Media and AND Media. Music by Matt Buechele. FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsoundslikealot/ ►Threads: https://www.threads.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the news starts to feel like too much, sometimes all you can do is laugh. On his new podcast, That Sounds Like A Lot, comedian and writer Matt Buechele walks you through the biggest news of the week, then sits down with a guest to figure out what is actually worth paying attention to. This is not the place to get the news. It is the place to feel a little better about it. New episodes every Friday starting May 1, part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. Subscribe below to watch on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. FOLLOW THE SHOW ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@thatsoundslikealot ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thatsoundslikealot FOLLOW MATT BUECHELE ►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbooshell/ ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattbooshell ►Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mattbooshell.bsky.social LISTEN ►Spotify: http://vmpod.co/tslalspot ►Apple Podcasts: http://vmpod.co/tslalapple⁠ __________ ABOUT THAT SOUNDS LIKE A LOT Every Friday, viewers and listeners can tune in for host Matt Buechele’s upgraded “walk-and-talk” monologue, unpacking the stories that shape culture, politics, and the increasingly strange rhythms of modern life. Each episode then expands into a funny, thoughtful conversation with a guest about what actually deserves attention, what’s wildly overhyped, and what we’re getting wrong. There might be music. There might be absurdity. There will always be laughs. Part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. ABOUT MATT BUECHELE Matt Buechele is an award-winning comedian, writer, and composer based in New York. His satirical videos about culture, politics, masculinity, and the internet have earned nearly 1 million followers and more than 200 million views across platforms. His work has been featured on Comedy Central, Netflix, and The New York Times, and he previously wrote for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He also releases music under the artist name Booshell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices