Love Kumail for being so open about his complicated relationship with his career and ambition. Can so relate to it. Also, as a fellow South Asian, what he’s talking about is just so endemic to our parenting culture - it’s rooted in shame, oppressive guilt, constant comparison, the value placed on self-sacrifice and achievement above personal happiness and contentment.
Still not sure why people with Asian parents think they are the only ones who go through this. If anyone who didn’t grow up rich which includes a lot more people. We all had that. It’s only rich kids who didn’t get that. I also didn’t realize people had dads who were nice to them and didn’t insult everything they did or thought constantly. And people even apologize to them. No one apologized to me ever. I was blamed for everything that went wrong. Just saying, you can grow up from any backgrounds of lower middle class to poor and have this experience.
You've had a lot of great ones, but this one is my favorite so far. No bullshit, just real vulnerable honesty. You are by far my favorite podcast interviewer.
Ditto! I was familiar with Kumail's work but had no idea he was so interesting. He is a genuinely good man who is deeply committed to his wife & his marriage, which is so rare to see in the comedy world.
I like his point he thought he was a bad person pretending to be a good person. Never heard anyone actually admit that, but its common amongst religious ppl. I like that he made an effort to be vulnerable with his wife.
I really felt that. I was brought up in a strict baptist-type home, and the soundtrack of my childhood was the pastor going on and on about how we were “born in sin” and can’t do anything good, except through Jesus. Messes with your head. Religious trauma is a real thing.
Same...i love kumail and the premise of blocks brings out interesting relatable experiences from celebrities i don't like so you can bet this will be great!
I never comment on this shit and they’d be fools to read the comments, but that was one of my favorite episodes. This is like group therapy and we’re all invited.
So happy for Kumail’s success. Always enjoyed his stand up and role in Silicon Valley. His episode of the Twilight Zone was superb. Great interview. Really honest and vulnerable conversation.
One of my fav episodes so far. It was really relatable on so many levels. Thanks Neal & Kumail for doing this and being vulnerable infront of us. Appreciate it. ❤
The best part about him not wanting to explain the premise anymore is that he could’ve just recorded an intro explaining it to play at the beginning of every episode 😂
It is about time he stopped doing that. It causes him so much pain every time. It was hilarious how it started clear and concise, sometimes got lengthier and more confusing, sometimes got short and curt. And he clearly felt obliged to mention that it was Jimmy Carr's idea even though the blocks are less of a focus on the show now and he just has conversations with people for the most part.
Same. He has never successfully executed on that premise (the show is basically a normal biographical interview show) so I'm glad he's stopped trying to set it up and just does his thing, which he's great at. It doesn't have to be some innovative format to be good.
Finally, a guest who understood the assignment 👏👏👏 What a pleasure to listen to two emotionally in touch, vulnerable men talk about stuff. Love it. Refreshing, too, that they didn’t spend much time talking about comedy.
The thing about Internal Family Systems is that all the voices are a part of your psyche and they all have a goal of keeping you "safe". Sometimes they have an outdated or extreme version of what "safe" looks like and can get big. Keeping in mind that Craig's goal in saying these things is to prevent you from getting hurt in a particular way you've been hurt before may help in being more curious as to what they are protecting against and what would help them ease up with that behavior.
It's interesting, I understand para-social relationships, and that they're completely one sided, and that the good feelings or connection you have with the person aren't experience at all by the other. That being said, Kumail's vulnerability and openness makes him incredibly relatable and approachable, which is the last thing he wants haha. Guess I'll just have to see his next stand up, whenever that might be. Bravo on all his success, even if it never quite feels like enough. Delighted that he has come to truly appreciate Emily, and excited to see what he does next.
Neal, if you ever stop doing this podcast, I’m going to find you and I’m going to fight you. I have a good life that I’m very thankful for. And still, episodes like this are a favorite part of my week. It’s not only that I enjoy it and I laugh and maybe I learn a thing or two.. I legitimately feel more connected to myself and others. From your freaking podcast. That’s fucking really dope. Thanks for that.
It's always a little surprising (but somehow comforting) to me to hear that highly successful people have the same fears, doubts, frustrations, etc as the rest of us. Like, wow-- my heroes are human too! Love this podcast. ✌ ❤
🎉 Kumail and Emily are the best!! 🎉 Emily brought so many great acts to Meltdown, and although I would never be able to go there, it was sad to see it go 😢
I'm just sad that "Can't get no satisfaction" didn't flash across the screen when Kumail was talking about not ever being satisfied. Anyhow, great episode!
Your episodes keep getting better. This is my favorite. So helpful to hear the inner struggles of other artists, and how to manage them. Listening to your conversations has been more helpful than when I tried talk therapy.
I've watched a lot of Blocks episodes by this point but I have not related more to a guest than I have Prismo (Kumail). Thank you for this episode as it has honestly helped me understand myself a lot better.
I followed their podcasts from years ago: Neil had "The Champs" and Kumail had "The Indoor Kids." It's wild to see someone early in their careers where things are sorta happening and treading water to now.
I love this man and his self made rise in the industry. To me, he is the Pakistani Stallone or Arnold, if they were comedians. His Birthday fudge story, from his childhood (told it on Conan) is my favorite!
I first saw him in Portlandia, then the Big Sick. But can we talk about CHIPPENDALES his acting chops are fantastic! I can see why it means more to him because that show was super tense and vulnerable all at once.
It makes me sad as a fan to hear these stories, Ethan Hawke once said it in an interview, people don't want a conversation, they want a selfie. It's why I don't take pics or ask for autographs when I run into someone famous, they love it when you DONT recognize them
Seriously helpful, insightful and funny episode to watch. When Kumail went through his body transformation, I wrote him off as being conceited or something and didn't seek him out much after. I guess that behavior is kind of justified in this episode, but it's his tenacity for being "the best" and basically accomplishing it that probably gave me those feelings because i was jealous. It's crazy seeing a guy go from a nerd to a superhero and nailing both and I know in my bones I'll never be able to do something like that so i tuned him out subconsciously. Gave me a ton of respect for him this episode and gives me a reason to go visit his newer work and enjoy it. This is seriously the best podcast out there. Thank you to Neal and the guests for sharing so honestly.
"did you tell her you felt better about getting an Emmy nomination than an Oscar one?" XD I first saw Kumail on stage in Chicago circa 2003 at the Lyon's Den (Pete Holmes was there too) and he was so uniquely funny. I've been rooting for him ever since.
First blocks guest to rock shorts? Always breaking ground, this fella... I love Kumail. His story is so rad. He's out there representing the uber dorky, sensitive types and remaining true to himself while also living his dreams. Cant ask for more!
20 mins in... Editor you are a legend. The throwaways are so noticed. "Sometimes you just gotta tighten it up" -> 1second tight close up. "It bothered me for a long time" -> slowest scrolling block animation we've ever seen. So clever it makes me physically uncomfortable.
An EMPIRE as I get older seems like 99+ more problems + people to nurture - care - be responsible for..Who has that much ego to spend imo. Or I am lazy! 😂
Great Episode: I'd like to point out the epic ad breaks. Specifically for the Gametime App. Neal, calling back to a lesser known, but excellent, Jhene Aiko song. " 'Post to Be." Which means, Neal, you 'Post to Be podcasting. Never quit!
another brilliant interview. connected deeply with this ep. friendly tip - I agree repeating the premise in front of the guest is tiresome. However, I didn't start watching Kill Tony until 400+ episodes after it started lol. He still repeats his premise & allowed me to easily become a viewer. Compromise = Take one of the previous 34 EP openings and play it during the intro hip hop DJing noise. Prob best to extend the intro and find a lil jingle for your show open.
I just discovered this series and I've watched three in a row. Not sure if you realized this or not, but in case the only thing keeping you from such an earth-shattering come-to-Jesus moment was some internet rando effusing shamelessly in the comment section, this whole series is incredible and it is extremely awesome watching funny people work through some of their shit. You've given us an awful lot over the years, Mr. Brennan, thanks for this newest offering.
These BFQSY commercial breaks are taking me out of the moment more than “regular” commercials. Because I watched that show before this one, it’s like *I’m watching Blocks, cruising along. Up one gear at a time as we go along. Then, a BFQSY ad pops up randomly, and it’s like dropping back down to first or second gear*
Love Kumail for being so open about his complicated relationship with his career and ambition. Can so relate to it. Also, as a fellow South Asian, what he’s talking about is just so endemic to our parenting culture - it’s rooted in shame, oppressive guilt, constant comparison, the value placed on self-sacrifice and achievement above personal happiness and contentment.
Damn bro, are you me?
Yeah, I loved Kumail as well. Loved the ep. Easily among my Top 5 so far.
As Neal said, I am thankful for Kumail's vulnerability and candidness. 🙌
Still not sure why people with Asian parents think they are the only ones who go through this. If anyone who didn’t grow up rich which includes a lot more people. We all had that. It’s only rich kids who didn’t get that. I also didn’t realize people had dads who were nice to them and didn’t insult everything they did or thought constantly. And people even apologize to them. No one apologized to me ever. I was blamed for everything that went wrong. Just saying, you can grow up from any backgrounds of lower middle class to poor and have this experience.
You've had a lot of great ones, but this one is my favorite so far. No bullshit, just real vulnerable honesty. You are by far my favorite podcast interviewer.
Ditto! I was familiar with Kumail's work but had no idea he was so interesting. He is a genuinely good man who is deeply committed to his wife & his marriage, which is so rare to see in the comedy world.
Yeah. Totally agree.
Probably THE most honest and upfront guest so far.
lol honest, really?? He wont admit that his massive body transformation is due to roids and HGH? His jaw has doubled in size.
What a crock of shit
This is so candid and engaging. 👍
I like his point he thought he was a bad person pretending to be a good person. Never heard anyone actually admit that, but its common amongst religious ppl. I like that he made an effort to be vulnerable with his wife.
I really felt that. I was brought up in a strict baptist-type home, and the soundtrack of my childhood was the pastor going on and on about how we were “born in sin” and can’t do anything good, except through Jesus. Messes with your head. Religious trauma is a real thing.
Fastest click of my life no joke
Nooooo joke
No way no joke?
Same...i love kumail and the premise of blocks brings out interesting relatable experiences from celebrities i don't like so you can bet this will be great!
Yeah love these and love Kumail
I thought the exact same thing 😂
I never comment on this shit and they’d be fools to read the comments, but that was one of my favorite episodes. This is like group therapy and we’re all invited.
The big sick was a masterful piece of cinema, and I’ll take this as my reminder to rewatch it again soon
So happy for Kumail’s success. Always enjoyed his stand up and role in Silicon Valley. His episode of the Twilight Zone was superb. Great interview. Really honest and vulnerable conversation.
One of my fav episodes so far. It was really relatable on so many levels. Thanks Neal & Kumail for doing this and being vulnerable infront of us. Appreciate it. ❤
Such an amazing conversation. Kumail is so talented. He blew me away in the Chippendale's series.
The best part about him not wanting to explain the premise anymore is that he could’ve just recorded an intro explaining it to play at the beginning of every episode 😂
It is about time he stopped doing that. It causes him so much pain every time.
It was hilarious how it started clear and concise, sometimes got lengthier and more confusing, sometimes got short and curt.
And he clearly felt obliged to mention that it was Jimmy Carr's idea even though the blocks are less of a focus on the show now and he just has conversations with people for the most part.
Same. He has never successfully executed on that premise (the show is basically a normal biographical interview show) so I'm glad he's stopped trying to set it up and just does his thing, which he's great at. It doesn't have to be some innovative format to be good.
i need to pause to appreciate the new iconic glasses neal is wearing.
I’m here for the glasses
Ya my husband always comments in his glasses!
Finally, a guest who understood the assignment 👏👏👏
What a pleasure to listen to two emotionally in touch, vulnerable men talk about stuff. Love it. Refreshing, too, that they didn’t spend much time talking about comedy.
Peak reflection in this interview on so many levels, and a brutally honest conversation w/ Kumail! Great episode!
"brutally honest" , can he be honest about taking massive amounts of roids that altered his jawline in his 40s.
I love how each episode is getting better and better editing humor. Great stuff!
These edits are getting stronger and stronger. Shoutout to the production crew
The thing about Internal Family Systems is that all the voices are a part of your psyche and they all have a goal of keeping you "safe". Sometimes they have an outdated or extreme version of what "safe" looks like and can get big.
Keeping in mind that Craig's goal in saying these things is to prevent you from getting hurt in a particular way you've been hurt before may help in being more curious as to what they are protecting against and what would help them ease up with that behavior.
LOVE Kumail!! I rewatch The Big Sick and Lovebirds all the time!
It's interesting, I understand para-social relationships, and that they're completely one sided, and that the good feelings or connection you have with the person aren't experience at all by the other. That being said, Kumail's vulnerability and openness makes him incredibly relatable and approachable, which is the last thing he wants haha. Guess I'll just have to see his next stand up, whenever that might be. Bravo on all his success, even if it never quite feels like enough. Delighted that he has come to truly appreciate Emily, and excited to see what he does next.
This is such a great episode. Thank you so much for opening up this way. I’ve learned a lot about myself listening to you guys. ❤
Thank you Neal and Kumail.
Neal, if you ever stop doing this podcast, I’m going to find you and I’m going to fight you.
I have a good life that I’m very thankful for. And still, episodes like this are a favorite part of my week.
It’s not only that I enjoy it and I laugh and maybe I learn a thing or two.. I legitimately feel more connected to myself and others. From your freaking podcast. That’s fucking really dope. Thanks for that.
It's always a little surprising (but somehow comforting) to me to hear that highly successful people have the same fears, doubts, frustrations, etc as the rest of us.
Like, wow-- my heroes are human too!
Love this podcast.
✌ ❤
Kumail on Murderville on Netflix was the best one.
love the way he talks about his a marriage and wife.
Kumail tried to make this the best Blocks podcast ever. He might have succeeded :)
Love and always have loved Kumail. Glad he's still doing well!
Maybe the best thing about your pod neal, I feel like id want to be friends with most of your guests after these talks, Which is huge
Thanks again for another unique interview with another unique talented person I’ve been eager to learn more about, Neal!
Digging the frames Neal!
I didn't know who this guy was before clicking and I'm now a fan and rooting for him
@Neal Brennan still the only comedy special I’ve rewatched the moment it ended.
The Pakistani Denzel!
Nah
That’s hilarious
🎉 Kumail and Emily are the best!! 🎉 Emily brought so many great acts to Meltdown, and although I would never be able to go there, it was sad to see it go 😢
Great as always. I was a little sketchy on what he premise of the show is though...
Is this my favourite episode? Like, this was really good Neal
In the span of 2 days, you’ve shot up to my favorite podcast. GJ man
I'm just sad that "Can't get no satisfaction" didn't flash across the screen when Kumail was talking about not ever being satisfied. Anyhow, great episode!
21:34 Kumail has always been attractive, IMO. I'm sorry to hear that he didn't feel that way.
Your episodes keep getting better. This is my favorite. So helpful to hear the inner struggles of other artists, and how to manage them. Listening to your conversations has been more helpful than when I tried talk therapy.
I've watched a lot of Blocks episodes by this point but I have not related more to a guest than I have Prismo (Kumail). Thank you for this episode as it has honestly helped me understand myself a lot better.
Thanks for another great episode. On a side note, I hope that you'll convince Electric Guest to release that song, Neal.
What a wonderful conversation, thank you both. I will remember this!
Powerful episode - thank you
This is what the intention of this pod was I'm thinking. Fantastic episode. I REALLY related to it.
Love Kumail! Huge fan of his work in Portlandia. Such hilarious, understated humor. So nice to see he's a good human, trying his best.
no idea you did podcasts, your really the ideal person to do podcasts. big fan of yours. thank you and keep up the good work!
Whoever edited the zoom-ins when they speak with their hands, I appreciate you. Thanks Neal, great stuff
I followed their podcasts from years ago: Neil had "The Champs" and Kumail had "The Indoor Kids." It's wild to see someone early in their careers where things are sorta happening and treading water to now.
Happy 50th Neal!!! That’s a big milestone!
In all the way!
My man, thank you both.
This podcast is a godsend. A windfall. A doozy
Kumail has always been a solid, funny guy. We're due a stand up special once he decides to return.
Great ep. One of the best
59:30 powerful. Loved this ep
"If we share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive." Brene Brown
I love this man and his self made rise in the industry. To me, he is the Pakistani Stallone or Arnold, if they were comedians. His Birthday fudge story, from his childhood (told it on Conan) is my favorite!
Best one Yet, Neal! Thanks Kumail, I appreciate all the honesty, and laughs! You are Enough, Bud!
Probably the best episode so far!
I first saw him in Portlandia, then the Big Sick. But can we talk about CHIPPENDALES his acting chops are fantastic! I can see why it means more to him because that show was super tense and vulnerable all at once.
That Pete Holmes advice is top notch, thats why hes a great friend.
It makes me sad as a fan to hear these stories, Ethan Hawke once said it in an interview, people don't want a conversation, they want a selfie. It's why I don't take pics or ask for autographs when I run into someone famous, they love it when you DONT recognize them
love him
Seriously helpful, insightful and funny episode to watch. When Kumail went through his body transformation, I wrote him off as being conceited or something and didn't seek him out much after. I guess that behavior is kind of justified in this episode, but it's his tenacity for being "the best" and basically accomplishing it that probably gave me those feelings because i was jealous. It's crazy seeing a guy go from a nerd to a superhero and nailing both and I know in my bones I'll never be able to do something like that so i tuned him out subconsciously. Gave me a ton of respect for him this episode and gives me a reason to go visit his newer work and enjoy it.
This is seriously the best podcast out there. Thank you to Neal and the guests for sharing so honestly.
omg the "im not gonna explain it anymore" part makes this THE best episode ever.
Excellent as usual
"did you tell her you felt better about getting an Emmy nomination than an Oscar one?" XD
I first saw Kumail on stage in Chicago circa 2003 at the Lyon's Den (Pete Holmes was there too) and he was so uniquely funny. I've been rooting for him ever since.
Fantastic episode
Silicon Valley was the best show. Wish there were more seasons.😢
Another great interview! Props to the EDITOR of these recordings! They always add an extra element of funny and context to the interviews!
First blocks guest to rock shorts? Always breaking ground, this fella...
I love Kumail. His story is so rad. He's out there representing the uber dorky, sensitive types and remaining true to himself while also living his dreams. Cant ask for more!
20 mins in... Editor you are a legend. The throwaways are so noticed. "Sometimes you just gotta tighten it up" -> 1second tight close up. "It bothered me for a long time" -> slowest scrolling block animation we've ever seen. So clever it makes me physically uncomfortable.
I have come to believe that Neal Brennan is doing God’s work in helping ENTPs, both those on the show and those of us watching.
that system of putting people in a type, yeah I think thats been debunked
Wonderful talk. I enjoy these so much.
great episode! he's a wise man. loved the 8 or so references to math lol
Man this was good.
Lack of desire for an empire/product line is the way you know you’re still human
An EMPIRE as I get older seems like 99+ more problems + people to nurture - care - be responsible for..Who has that much ego to spend imo. Or I am lazy! 😂
This convo flowed nicely
"Look, I'm not....gonna explain this shit anymore. You know what the premise is" 😂 Neal is hilarious
He's on that shit that makes your head grow
Great Episode:
I'd like to point out the epic ad breaks. Specifically for the Gametime App. Neal, calling back to a lesser known, but excellent, Jhene Aiko song. " 'Post to Be." Which means, Neal, you 'Post to Be podcasting. Never quit!
Good work, Neal. Thanks, Kumail.
Listening on my lunch break.
One of the best episodes!
That’s a powerful message 40:27
another brilliant interview. connected deeply with this ep. friendly tip - I agree repeating the premise in front of the guest is tiresome. However, I didn't start watching Kill Tony until 400+ episodes after it started lol. He still repeats his premise & allowed me to easily become a viewer. Compromise = Take one of the previous 34 EP openings and play it during the intro hip hop DJing noise. Prob best to extend the intro and find a lil jingle for your show open.
this is a great one.
As a career driven person. This resonated quite a bit. Loved the episode.
We need John Cena on blocks.
fan since portlandia. very funny dude.
Upper top 5 of episodes so far.
This was a very good episode
Great framing of this pattern can be visible in the American condition. I really enjoy this series. We human beings are fascinating. Thank you Neal.
Lit and crunk, much like the last episode.
I just discovered this series and I've watched three in a row. Not sure if you realized this or not, but in case the only thing keeping you from such an earth-shattering come-to-Jesus moment was some internet rando effusing shamelessly in the comment section, this whole series is incredible and it is extremely awesome watching funny people work through some of their shit. You've given us an awful lot over the years, Mr. Brennan, thanks for this newest offering.
These BFQSY commercial breaks are taking me out of the moment more than “regular” commercials. Because I watched that show before this one, it’s like *I’m watching Blocks, cruising along. Up one gear at a time as we go along. Then, a BFQSY ad pops up randomly, and it’s like dropping back down to first or second gear*
“Kumail Nanshowupi” Andy Richter 😂
I miss the indoor kids podcast so much. I wish kumail and emily would bring it back. I know its unrealistic but that show made my week
Kumail has been one of my favorites for a really long time, excellent guest! Big fan. Also informer by snow.
So glad you did the piece to camera about being craven … I was thinking it SO loud