Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
"The whole goal, you don't even know you're, you're just laughing at this person. They're funny. You don't realize they're clean. One of the goat clean comics ever, I think." — Andrew Schulz
"The greatest normal, it was at the greatest average America. Someone had told me that they could, what is your title, the most average? I'm like, that sounds such worse." — Nate Parkazzi
"You know, like when you're a godparent. This is a big job. Usually it's like, you know, he might be a godfather to like a few kids. Like it's just kind of a gesture." — Nate Parkazzi
The episode features an in-depth conversation with comedian Nate Parkazzi, hosted by Andrew Schulz, Akaash Singh, and Mark Gagnon. Parkazzi reflects on his early comedy career in New York City, detailing the challenges of performing in small rooms with limited audiences, which he credits with honing his craft and developing strong crowd work skills. He contrasts this with his later success, which saw him explode in popularity after moving away from traditional comedy hubs. The discussion delves into the evolving nature of the comedy industry, particularly the impact of streaming platforms like Netflix and the ability for comedians to build their own "worlds" and fan bases, drawing parallels to Adam Sandler's career model.
A significant portion of the conversation addresses societal perceptions and stereotypes. Parkazzi shares experiences of being stereotyped based on his Southern background, highlighting how preconceived notions can lead to unfair judgments. The hosts explore the tendency of some comedians and media to portray certain regions or groups as punchlines, emphasizing the importance of authentic representation and avoiding manufactured narratives. The dialogue touches on the complexities of social issues, personal beliefs, and the pressure on public figures to use their platforms, with Parkazzi expressing a preference for focusing on humor rather than activism.
The conversation also touches upon various aspects of the entertainment industry, including the process of creating comedy specials, the differences in audience reception across various locations, and the mental fortitude required for stand-up. They discuss the impact of sports fandom, the nature of celebrity, and the personal journeys of iconic figures like Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods. The episode concludes with Parkazzi promoting his upcoming tour and Netflix special, encouraging listeners to engage with his work.