Interview
Russell Howard: How To Laugh Through Fear, Anxiety & Imposter Syndrome | E109
- Russell Howard's upcoming Netflix special, Lubricant, and the documentary Until the Wheels Come Off are scheduled for release on December 14th.
- The comedian intends to evolve his performance style to be more thoughtful and "deeply human," moving away from high-octane energy to better suit post-pandemic audience desires for connection.
- Howard anticipates Lubricant will serve as a "love letter to laughter" focusing on the human need for silliness, while acknowledging potential negative reviews from "furious perverts" misinterpreting the title.
- Specific narrative content regarding "ladies in the coffins" is excluded from the current special but is expected to appear in future projects.
- Stephen Bartlett predicts the podcast interview will reveal a stark contrast between Howard's public persona and his private conversational self, establishing the discussion as unique.
- Bartlett expects to attend an upcoming interview with Will Smith and anticipates Tesla's Cybertruck availability will allow him to acquire an electric vehicle next year.
- The Harvey device is expected to provide savings in both time and money for users.
- Howard plans to continue avoiding the draining cycle of seeking happiness solely through work, instead relying on fantastic people and experiences for well-being.
- The comedian believes fear is not a viable long-term motivator for creativity, admitting he would not perform without preparation and that excitement does not necessarily drive his prep work.
- Howard posits that laughter functions as essential "lubricant" for life, distinguishing humans from other animals in their capacity to laugh, and expects it to soothe tensions during difficult times.
- Bartlett characterizes current comedians as "national treasures" due to their role in cheering people up during challenging periods.
- Howard notes that while some wellness tools like cold showers and Wim Hof breathing may have psychosomatic effects, he personally finds turning fear into excitement difficult to practice.