A phone call with Alex Dobrenko reveals the endless potential for goofs. Plus recs for Gretchen Rubin's life lessons, Wyatt Cenac's subway take, and Maris Kreizman on being a good author
Love this!! Just found you through Alex’s substack. I feel like I’m a hidden comedian (there’s a bit there!). People always stop in their tracks when I tell them I’ve done improv and stand up comedy (without actually practicing any real jokes for the set!). I’m a counselor and mom of 2 kids, one with special needs… so in the moment, so many things are so not funny …. But I’m truly proud that I have now created a bit about how a hospital sent my baby in a helicopter this year for a virus and when his heart was FAILING, they were like, “eh I think a road vehicle will do (aka ambulance). I would love to connect with you more! Your book sounds great!
I really hear you on how bits can be the most helpful when things are very much not funny. I do think it's such an effective way to release the stress/tension of a moment! But also, I'm sorry that you have to deal with that, it sounds incredibly hard. But you also sound hilarious
I'm sort of crazy about the idea that everything is a surface for a bit. Not to get all philosophical about it, but it allows you to chase that first little bit of inertial friction that says "Is it worth it to just make myself laugh," with the thought: "Well, duh. Of course it is." That just seems like good mental health right there.
Okay here’s one: I don’t think I’ve said “goodnight” to him in like maybe 12 years? Once I looked at him before turning over in bed to go to sleep and just said “Bye!” And we cracked up. So now I just say “Bye!” when it’s time to get serious about falling asleep. And we still think it’s funny. As long as he keeps laughing I’m gonna keep doing the bit.
Great newsletter!!!!
Alex moved to Asheville????
It’s true!!
Love this!! Just found you through Alex’s substack. I feel like I’m a hidden comedian (there’s a bit there!). People always stop in their tracks when I tell them I’ve done improv and stand up comedy (without actually practicing any real jokes for the set!). I’m a counselor and mom of 2 kids, one with special needs… so in the moment, so many things are so not funny …. But I’m truly proud that I have now created a bit about how a hospital sent my baby in a helicopter this year for a virus and when his heart was FAILING, they were like, “eh I think a road vehicle will do (aka ambulance). I would love to connect with you more! Your book sounds great!
I really hear you on how bits can be the most helpful when things are very much not funny. I do think it's such an effective way to release the stress/tension of a moment! But also, I'm sorry that you have to deal with that, it sounds incredibly hard. But you also sound hilarious
Thank you!!!
I'm sort of crazy about the idea that everything is a surface for a bit. Not to get all philosophical about it, but it allows you to chase that first little bit of inertial friction that says "Is it worth it to just make myself laugh," with the thought: "Well, duh. Of course it is." That just seems like good mental health right there.
YES, Bill! I'm right there with you! I think my book is going to be right up your alley when it comes out! This is my whole thing
Can't wait.
I love this! My husband and I have bits we’ve kept going for 10+ years 🤣
Oh wow, please share a bit if you feel comfortable! I love a longterm bit
Okay here’s one: I don’t think I’ve said “goodnight” to him in like maybe 12 years? Once I looked at him before turning over in bed to go to sleep and just said “Bye!” And we cracked up. So now I just say “Bye!” when it’s time to get serious about falling asleep. And we still think it’s funny. As long as he keeps laughing I’m gonna keep doing the bit.
hahaha that's so good!!!
And now officially comedian-approved
dear chris,
great bits! love all of this, love you!
love
myq
PS did you notice that you're not smiling in that photo? BITS BITS BITS
OH NO!! That was the whole point of the book!!
BITS BITS BITS (you are a bit inspiration to me!)
hahaha omg dude i love this
hell yeah!! bit city