This podcast episode of "Take Your Shoes Off" features a chaotic and meta-conversational dynamic between host Rick Glassman and guest Bobby Lee. The session is marked by multiple false starts and awkward interactions stemming from Glassman's house rules and Lee's subdued energy, which he attributes to taking a beta-blocker. A central comedic segment involves fulfilling a long-overdue promise from Lee to comedian Eric Griffin regarding a manager meeting, culminating in a live call where Griffin humorously rejects the offer. The conversation delves into Lee's career on MADtv, his anxieties about performing, and his relationships with fellow comedians. The episode's unusual tone and lack of momentum lead to a final discussion about whether to release the recording, with both hosts ultimately agreeing to attempt a "part two" in a future session.
An Awkward Encounter: Bobby Lee on 'Take Your Shoes Off'
0:02:33 An Awkward Start: The podcast begins with palpable tension as Bobby Lee expresses discomfort with host Rick Glassman’s “nervous energy” and rigid pre-show setup, leading to multiple attempts to restart the episode.
0:03:18 The "Shoe Thing": A recurring point of contention is Glassman's strict "no shoes" policy, which Lee finds unusual. This initial conflict sets the stage for a comically awkward dynamic that persists throughout the show.
0:08:35 Backhanded Compliments: Lee compliments Glassman's stand-up from a recent show they did together but admits he was "surprised" by how funny he was, a comment Glassman points out is a pattern.
0:26:09 OCD and Cleanliness: The conversation explores Glassman's OCD-like tendencies, particularly his obsession with cleanliness, and how it impacts his interactions with guests and his personal relationships.
0:43:57 The Eric Griffin Story: Lee tells a story from years ago about acting entitled and mistaking fellow comedian Eric Griffin for a valet. Later, on a USO tour, Griffin graciously gave Lee his aisle seat for a 16-hour flight. As a thank you, Lee promised to get Griffin a meeting with his manager but never followed through.
0:55:21 Fulfilling an Old Promise: At Glassman's insistence, they call Lee's manager live on air, who agrees she would take a meeting with Griffin. They then call Eric Griffin to finally make good on the promise.
0:56:06 The Rejection: In the comedic climax of the episode, Eric Griffin is offered the long-awaited manager meeting and responds with a blunt, deadpan "No," immediately ending the call.
1:15:09 Surviving MADtv: Lee reflects on his time on MADtv, admitting he couldn't do impressions or voices like his castmates. He found his niche by creating characters that were extensions of himself, like in his "24 with Bobby Lee" sketches.
1:23:18 Beta-Blocker Revelation: Lee reveals he took a beta-blocker on an empty stomach before the podcast, which explains his low energy and the subdued, drifting nature of his conversation. This becomes a key point of discussion for the remainder of the episode.
2:00:10 To Post or Not to Post?: Acknowledging the unusual energy and lack of momentum, Lee and Glassman openly debate whether the episode is good enough to release. They conclude that it is not and agree to record a "part two" at a later date to try again.