Topic Guide

What Is Comedy?

Comedy is a subject covered in depth across 40 podcast episodes in our database. Below you'll find key concepts, expert insights, and the top episodes to listen to — all distilled from hours of conversation by leading experts.

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Key Concepts in Comedy

Squeal or no squeal

A game played in the episode that spoofs Howie Mandel's 'Deal or No Deal.' In this version, Mandel watches clips of people on roller coasters and guesses whether they will 'squeal' (scream) or not, demonstrating his comedic timing and engagement.

At risk chin

A term coined by Amy Schumer to describe a chin that, if not held at a specific 'sea level' angle, tends to double itself. The episode presents this as a personal physical trait Schumer openly acknowledges and jokes about, contrasting it with those who naturally maintain a more flattering profile.

Hot people problems

A humorous concept mentioned by Amy Schumer, referring to the unique set of challenges or complaints faced by conventionally attractive individuals. Schumer suggests these problems are distinct from her own experiences and highlight a comedic divide between different social perceptions.

Postmodern cooking

This culinary approach, pioneered by Chef Hamaro Cantou, involves using scientific methods and unusual ingredients like liquid nitrogen and laser beams to create novel textures, temperatures, and presentations. The episode demonstrates its use in making liquid mozzarella snow, hot and cold soups, and deconstructed desserts.

Ned (no evidence of disease)

An abbreviation used in oncology to describe a patient's status when medical tests reveal no detectable cancer. 12-year-old David Dingman Grover was declared 'NED' two years after his cancer treatment, signifying a positive milestone in his recovery journey.

The magnet theory of self-improvement

Theo Von describes individuals as “magnets” that attract certain things and are drawn to certain places. He emphasizes the need to “check in on the magnet” to ensure it's working correctly and attracting desired outcomes, particularly in the context of personal relationships and spiritual growth [10:15].

What Experts Say About Comedy

1.Amy Schumer employs self-deprecating humor to contrast her appearance with conventionally attractive individuals like Diana Agron.
2.Schumer has coined the term "at risk chin" to describe her tendency to develop a double chin if her head is not held at a specific 'sea level' angle.
3.She humorously describes her resemblance to Diana Agron by stating, 'I look like her if she were like becoming the Hulk.'
4.Schumer observes that conventionally attractive people, like Diana Agron, face a distinct set of challenges she refers to as "hot people problems."
5.Her public self-image, as evidenced by Google searches, openly displays her 'at risk chin,' reflecting a commitment to authenticity over curated perfection.
6.The episode title suggests content related to the decision-making process or considerations before having children.