The Best New Comedy Podcast Right Now – April 2026
Dive into hilarious conversations with comedy legends like Stephen Colbert, Aubrey Plaza, and Charlie Day! Explore their careers, personal stories, and the laughs they bring. Tune in for endless entertainment!
The 10 Best Comedy episodes
"Stephen Colbert"
Stephen Colbert joins Smartless to celebrate their 300th episode, discussing middle school, TV shows, and the enduring magic of Lord of the Rings.
This episode celebrates the 300th installment of Smartless with hosts Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes joined by guest Stephen Colbert. They kick off by announcing a live show at the Hollywood Bowl and then dive into humorous anecdotes, starting with Colbert's "Everest" story, which turns out to be about a middle school game. The conversation meanders through middle school memories, hockey, early comedy careers, and the ill-fated "Dana Carvey Show." They explore the demanding nature of hosting late-night shows, playfully role-play a fictional talk show segment, and discuss dream guests like the Pope. Colbert shares his passion for "Lord of the Rings" memorabilia and the story behind Viggo Mortensen's toe injury. The group debates the best film trilogies, discusses ideal talk show guests, and shares a funny story about Neil deGrasse Tyson being stumped by "The Partridge Family." As Colbert's show nears its end, he reflects on his tenure and expresses a desire to return to acting. The conversation takes a surreal turn discussing tech billionaires and "cloud underwear," before circling back to pilot season memories, the O.J. Simpson chase, and auditioning for roles. They conclude by reflecting on the podcast's milestone, sharing personal Latin mottos, and discussing the enduring appeal of "Lord of the Rings" and "Star Wars."
"Amanda Peet"
This podcast features a lively discussion with actress Amanda Peet, covering her career, personal life, struggles with stage fright and addiction, and her deeply personal New Yorker essay about family and health.
This episode features a comprehensive interview with actress Amanda Peet, delving into her career, personal life, and recent experiences. The conversation touches upon her early struggles with stage fright, her approach to acting, and her candid reflections on addiction, particularly sugar cravings. Peet shares insights into her upbringing, her relationship with her psychotherapist mother, and her journey into writing and showrunning. A significant portion of the discussion revolves around her deeply personal New Yorker essay, detailing her battle with breast cancer, the simultaneous health crises of her parents, and her mother's long-term care. The episode also explores her upcoming film "Fantasy Life," her acting philosophy, and her admiration for other talented individuals in the industry. The hosts also touch upon broader topics like sleep patterns, modern noir literature, podcast recommendations, and astrological influences, concluding with a heartfelt appreciation for Peet's talent and friendship.
"Aubrey Plaza"
Aubrey Plaza discusses her career, a stroke, spirituality, her new animated show "Kevin," and her unique comedic style.
This podcast features an in-depth conversation with Aubrey Plaza, covering her early career in improv and sketch comedy at UCB, her breakout roles in "Parks and Recreation" and other films, and her transition into producing. Plaza bravely shares her experience of having a stroke at a young age, detailing the terrifying symptoms and the profound impact it had on her perspective, leading to a spiritual journey and a shift in priorities. The discussion also delves into her new animated series, "Kevin," its heartwarming premise, and its impressive voice cast. Throughout the episode, Plaza's distinctive comedic style, her influences, and her strategic career choices are explored, alongside reflections on filmmaking, childhood, and her surreal return to "Saturday Night Live." The conversation concludes with praise for her talent and performances, particularly in "Emily the Criminal," and humorous analogies comparing her to other personalities.
"RE-RELEASE: Charlie Day"
This podcast features Charlie Day discussing his career, the success of "It's Always Sunny," acting advice, and his new rom-com, "I Want You Back."
This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with actor Charlie Day, hosted by Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes. They delve into the origins and enduring success of "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," discussing the challenges of maintaining a long-running show and the early days of pitching it to FX. The discussion also touches upon the complexities of working with agents, the dynamics of industry meetings, and the constant hustle required in the entertainment business. Charlie Day shares insights into his writing prowess, his collaborative relationships, and his passion for golf and music. The conversation explores his early acting aspirations, his experiences at the Williamstown Theatre Festival, and the evolving landscape of the acting profession, emphasizing the importance of self-creation and utilizing modern tools. They also discuss his new romantic comedy, "I Want You Back," and share humorous anecdotes about filming sex scenes. The episode concludes with reflections on Charlie Day's career, his directorial debut, and the success of "The Always Sunny Podcast."
No Such Thing As Elizabeth I's Burnt Umber
This podcast explores synesthesia, royal protocols, Formula 1 regulations, and historical pub culture, featuring guest Angela Barnes.
This podcast episode features guest Angela Barnes, discussing her experiences with grapheme-color synesthesia and other sensory conditions like conception-location synesthesia, misophonia, and ordinal linguistic personification. The conversation touches upon various types of synesthesia, including mirror-touch synesthesia, and its implications. It then shifts to historical anecdotes, such as the unique privilege granted to Master of the Queen's Horse, Richard Drake, in relation to Queen Elizabeth I. The discussion moves to modern topics, detailing the stringent licensing requirements for Formula 1 drivers, the evolution of safety standards, and the impact of hybrid technology. Finally, the episode delves into 16th-century London's pub culture, medicinal "purging ale," and the eccentric medical practices of Dr. William Butler, linking these to the historical context shaped by events like the Black Death.
Podcasting Through It with Heather Cox Richardson
This podcast explores historical parallels to current national anxieties, critiquing leadership, and emphasizing citizen agency in shaping a more just and expansive future.
This episode delves into the current national sentiment of uncertainty, drawing parallels to historical moments of crisis like the Great Crash of 1929. Heather Cox Richardson offers historical context, explaining how past generations experienced similar feelings of overwhelm. The conversation critiques contemporary leadership, particularly Donald Trump, contrasting his actions with historical figures and highlighting his use of media to create a narrative reality. The dismantling of the post-WWII international order is discussed, alongside the potential for new global possibilities and the resurgence of citizen agency. The episode examines recurring patterns in American history, such as deregulation cycles and the role of race in political discourse, advocating for an expansive vision for the 21st century that embraces inclusivity and progress. It concludes by emphasizing the power of storytelling, community, and individual action in shaping an unwritten future and rethinking democracy in the modern era.
No Such Thing As The God of Snooze Buttons
This podcast explores myths and facts, from the Cyclops's perspective and \"Ben Hur\"'s complex history to Greek gods, comic book origins, and the unique biology of naked mole rats.
This episode delves into a variety of fascinating topics, beginning with Ann Miller's children's book "The Monster Diaries," which offers a unique perspective on the Cyclops myth. It then announces an upcoming online quiz night. The podcast explores the intriguing history and merchandising of Lew Wallace's novel "Ben Hur," including its film adaptations and pronunciation challenges in Greece. Lew Wallace's multifaceted life, including his military career, inspiration for "Ben Hur," and encounters with Billy the Kid, is discussed, along with his inventions. An advertisement for Squarespace is featured. The discussion shifts to Greek mythology, introducing Chaomites, the god of beans, and exploring Aphrodite's birth and the origins of words like "tantalizing." It also touches on planet naming conventions and the use of mythological figures in financial institutions. The podcast then examines the history of comic strips, highlighting William Blackbeard's archive, the origins of cartoons, Popeye's cultural impact, and controversies surrounding comic books, including censorship and the infamous vampire hunt in Glasgow. Finally, the unique biological adaptations and social structure of naked mole rats are explored, including their pain resistance, low-oxygen survival, and plant-like metabolism, before concluding with contact information and a mention of Club Fish.
Fred Armisen
This podcast features Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein discussing their friendship, the origins of Portlandia, Armisen's diverse career in music and comedy, his SNL tenure, and personal anecdotes.
This podcast features a rich conversation with Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein, exploring their deep friendship and the genesis of their acclaimed show "Portlandia." They delve into Armisen's multifaceted career, from his early bands like Trenchmouth and his time with the Blue Man Group to his iconic eleven-year run on Saturday Night Live. The discussion highlights Armisen's unique comedic style, his ability to embody diverse characters, and his musical influences. They also touch upon personal experiences, including Armisen's multicultural background, his approach to conflict, and his well-known aversion to heights. The episode is interspersed with advertisements for Allstate and Visible wireless.
No Such Thing As A Second-Placed Helmet
This episode explores human evolution, ultramarathon physiology, unique knife craftsmanship, shark biology, and the inspiring, albeit challenging, journey of ski jumper Eddie the Eagle.
This episode features comedian Zoey Lyons, discussing human evolution and endurance running, the intense physiological effects of ultramarathons, and various running techniques. It delves into unique craftsmanship, including knives made from meteorite and artillery shells, and explores historical cutlery materials. The conversation shifts to Anthony Bourdain's life and insights from "Kitchen Confidential." A significant portion is dedicated to shark biology, covering semen collection for conservation, tonic immobility, sensory abilities, reproduction, and unusual species like the omnivorous bonnethead shark. Finally, the inspiring story of ski jumper Eddie the Eagle is shared, highlighting his struggles, determination, and the controversies surrounding ski jumping, including gender bias and the "Penis Gate" scandal.
"Nick Kroll"
Comedian Nick Kroll discusses his career, creative process, and upcoming projects, sharing insights into voice acting, sketch comedy, and family influences.
This podcast features an in-depth conversation with comedian Nick Kroll, covering his extensive career in voice acting, sketch comedy, and television. Kroll discusses the inspiration and creation of his hit show "Big Mouth," his early days in improv, and his unique "B minus" strategy for career longevity. The episode also touches on his family background, including his father's risk mitigation business and his sister's work in puberty education. Kroll shares anecdotes about his collaborations, memorable characters, and upcoming projects like "Mating Season" and "100% Here," while also reflecting on the evolution of entertainment and the art of engaging conversation.
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