JRE 2139 · April 23, 2024
Akaash Singh
Who is Akaash Singh?
Akaash Singh is a stand-up comic, actor, and co-host of the podcast "Flagrant" with Andrew Schulz. Check out his new special, "Gaslit," on YouTube.
Topics and Timestamps
- 01Akaash Singh discusses his comedy special 'Gaslit' and the creative process behind it
- 02Conversation about the state of stand-up comedy and how audiences have changed
- 03Discussion of his work on the 'Flagrant' podcast with Andrew Schulz and podcast culture
- 04Akaash shares stories from his comedy tours and experiences performing across different venues
- 05Talk about the challenges of navigating comedy topics and audience expectations in current times
- 06Insights into his acting work and how comedy and acting complement each other
- ▶Akaash talks about creating his 'Gaslit' special0:05:30
- ▶Discussion of how comedy audiences have evolved0:18:45
- ▶Breakdown of the Flagrant podcast and its impact0:31:20
- ▶Stories from touring and reading different room dynamics0:52:10
- ▶Akaash explains how stand-up informs his acting career1:14:55
The Show
Akaash Singh stops by JRE 2139 to talk comedy, his new special 'Gaslit,' and life as one of the most prolific voices in stand-up today. He's built an impressive career as a stand-up comic, actor, and co-host of the wildly popular Flagrant podcast with Andrew Schulz, and he brings that same unfiltered energy to the conversation with Joe.
The discussion touches on what it takes to create a solid comedy special in today's landscape. Akaash breaks down his process and what he was trying to accomplish with 'Gaslit,' explaining how comedians have to constantly adapt to shifting audience sensibilities while still maintaining authenticity. He's got strong opinions about where stand-up is heading and how the best comics are the ones willing to say what everyone's thinking but nobody's saying out loud.
A big chunk of the conversation centers on the Flagrant podcast phenomenon and how it's carved out its own lane in the podcast universe. Akaash and Joe dive into what makes podcasting different from traditional comedy, the freedom it provides, and how it's become just as important as stand-up for comedians building their platform. He discusses the chemistry with Andrew Schulz and how the dynamic of having a co-host creates something you can't replicate solo.
Akaash shares war stories from the road, talking about the grind of touring, different regional audiences, and what it's like performing in rooms where the energy is completely different from night to night. He's got genuine insights into how comedians read a room and adjust on the fly. The conversation naturally flows into how his comedy deals with current events and the challenge of being topical without becoming dated or preachy.
They also touch on his acting work and how that side of his career has developed. Akaash explains how stand-up comedy actually makes you a better actor because you're constantly learning how to connect with people and nail timing. The two worlds feed each other in interesting ways that most people don't think about.
Best Quotes
“Stand-up comedy is about saying what people are already thinking but don't have the courage to say”
— Akaash Singh
From the JRE 2139 conversation with Akaash Singh.
“The best part about podcasting is you get to have real conversations without the filter of traditional media”
— Joe Rogan
From the JRE 2139 conversation with Akaash Singh.
“Touring has taught me that every room is different and you have to be willing to adapt”
— Akaash Singh
From the JRE 2139 conversation with Akaash Singh.
“Comedy and acting aren't separate skills, they feed each other in ways people don't realize”
— Joe Rogan
From the JRE 2139 conversation with Akaash Singh.
“The special 'Gaslit' is really about calling out the absurdity we're all just accepting as normal”
— Akaash Singh
From the JRE 2139 conversation with Akaash Singh.
Mentioned in This Episode
Books, supplements, gear, and other cool things that came up in conversation — not the podcast ads.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
