WDEK Podcast Ep. 99: Subhah Agarwal & Michael Cyril Creighton - 1/25/22

Happy New Year!  Justin, Christian and Shonali are together again virtually for their 99th episode. 99 months together and they start the year out with a bang. Insert - Shonali's video of a downpour in her apartment.  Christian coins the term twinergy.  Our first guest is stand-up comedian, writer, actress Subhah Agarwal (Late Night with Lilly Singh, Westworld, The Jim Jeffries Show.)  She's bicoastal which we find out is not as not as glamourous as you might think.  She started doing stand-up when she was 17 years old bc as she says, she was a "bizzarre" child! Subhah is getting married this year and is having an Indian wedding.  To her fiancé's delight, there will be no "big robes" used during the ceremony.  Follow Subhah on her socials and catch her live on a stage near you!

For the first time ever Christian  shares his singing talents in singing his recent collaboration with Adele! It's an emotional performance. One you might want to watch for yourself on YouTube or FB Live. 

Our last guest of the evening is actor, writer extraordinaire Michael Cyril Creighton (Only Murders In The Building, Dexter, Spotlight, High Maintenance.)  We find out what "character bleeding" means. Do you remember how self-centered we all were before the pandemic began? We discuss Michael's dream job working on Only Murders In The Building and what he's looking forward to in 2022.  Be on the lookout for Michael in the upcoming final season of Dexter. 

Please join us next month for our 100th Episode of We Don't Even Know! It will be SPECIAL! 

WDEK Podcast Ep. 98: Julie Felix and Rashad Bashir - 11/30/21

Christian and Shonali are back with two celebrations under their bigger belt lines - Halloween AND Thanksgiving!  Our special guests are NYC comedian, actor, host Rashad Bashir and for the first time ever, Christian's twin sister Julie Felix, an expert leader in diversity, equity and inclusion join us on the show. 

Don't tell us you can't figure out what Shonali and Christian's 2021 Halloween costumes are.  They discuss pandemic weight gain in the chest area AND the stress of Thanksgiving leftovers.

Julie Felix, Christian's twin sister joins us for the first time on WDEK!  We delve into Christian and Julie's childhood which started out in the womb together.  Womb Wars Julie Christian illustration by Jasper Patch. 

 The two grew up in Deerfield, Illinois in which Julie says they were "99.9% of the 1% of diversity in Deerfield."   Shonali and Julie unite in their throat scratchers status which Christian hates.  Julie shares her pet peeves about her brother.  Can you guess what they are?

Our next guest is comedian, actor, host Rashad Bashir!  We discuss Thanksgiving and Christmas with the Bashirs.  Don't get Rashad started on cooking.  He is also known as Chef Bashir in his home and we want some of his honey glazed brussel sprouts NOW.  Rashad can dance too, just ask his fiancée! We talk about the beginnings of Rashad's comedy career,  Dave Chappelle's recent controversial comedy special, and the show We're Here.  

Rashad teaches us how to be better business people.  His Venmo, IG and PayPal QR codes are shared here.  Don't try to steal his Listerine flavored masks idea from him!  Follow Rashad on IG at @rbashir_comedy and/or see him regularly at Harlem Nights Bar - every Monday night at 6PM or on Saturday at 7PM EST.  

We are taking December off to be with our families!  Happy Holidays and we will be back in 2022!

WDEK Podcast Ep. 97: Joaquín Torres & Jordan Carlos - 10/26/21

It's October and the creepy crawly mood is upon us.  Shonali has her jack-o-lanterns lit. Christian says there's a chance that he'll be an N95 mask for Halloween.  Justin and his family will be "Tre Allegri Ragazzi Morti" (3 Happy Dead Guys!)  Our special guests are former actor turned public servant,  Assessor-Recorder of San Francisco Joaquín Torres and comedian, actor, writer Jordan Carlos. 

Christian Felix, Shonali Bhowmik, Jordan Carlos

You ever consider what it would be like to leave your current occupation to embark on a journey as a public servant? Our first guest has done that. Joaquín Torres explains how attending the Obama inauguration in 2008 inspired him.  He quickly transitioned from a professional actor who received an MFA from NYU to working for a San Francisco mayoral campaign within no time.  Now he is occupying his first job title for which he will need to win an election as Assessor-Recorder of San Francisco. He explains that the acting bug never leaves you but the education that comes from acting always stays with you. Learn more about Joaquín at JoaquinTorresSF.com!

Shonali's Game Changer this month emerged from the trauma of wearing a jumpsuit.  Christian endorses the fanny pack!  Writer / journalist Mickey Rapkin sends in a #GameChanger via text!

Comedian, writer, actor Jordan Carlos joins us after putting the kids to bed and walking the dog.  Jordan loves history as it is a predictor for the future. We discuss grappling with what our roles are in the conversation surrounding race today.  For this conversation, Jordan puts on his glasses and shares his personal evolution as someone who was seeking white approval to someone who currently is only working on projects helmed by Black peers.  Check out Jordan's work on Tha God's Honest Truth with Charlamagne Tha God on Comedy Central on Fridays; his podcast #Adulting with Michelle Buteau which is coming back and Phoebe Robinson's upcoming 1/2 hour comedy Everything's Trash.   Jordan and his family have their Halloween costumes DOWN. Listen to Ep. 97 for the details.

WDEK Podcast Ep. 96: Lizz Winstead & Saidah Blount - 9/28/21

It's September! Fall has arrived and WDEK is not looking forward to the pumpkin spice lattes signage that will soon be everywhere!  Justin the Intern joins us from Duluth, Minnesota.  Christian and Shonali have just returned from visiting their parents in Chicago and Nashville.  They discuss the Jedi mind tricks of their respective parents.   

The brilliant Lizz Winstead, comedian, co-founder of the Daily Show, founder of Abortion Access Front and co-founder of Air America amongst joins us from her abode.  Find out how a 16 year old Lizz Winstead's life experience is directly connected to her activism today as the founder of Abortion Access Front.  Do you know about the thousands of fake "clinics" in the US used to intimidate and spread misinformation to women regarding abortion?  We discuss destigmatizing abortion and how men should contribute to the conversation surrounding reproductive rights.   Follow Lizz on Twitter here! She's doing shows in Portland and San Francisco in November - you lucky West Coasters!

Shonali Bhowmik, Lizz Winstead, Saidah Blount

Per her Twitter profile our second guest Saidah Blount describes herself as a music industry maven, corporate goth, Sonos Senior Manager, Global Content. She joins us along Game Changers! This is the first time ever we bring our guests together to share trivial tips and/or life lessons which have changed their lives.  We have some great ones for you this month including TSA Tips, bubble wrap tips, peeling egg tips, identity theft tips and more! Also Saidah's use of the term "frothed up" is a new one for Christian and Shonali. 

As a woman of color who has worked in the music industry for years, we asked Saidah about her feelings regarding the long awaited conviction of R. Kelly in a NYC courtroom just the day before this show was taped.  Have you heard of the saying "Dance now.  Deconstruct later?"  Saidah contemplates whether "music is too big to fail."  Topics of discussion include the "shady" music industry, the non-stop work of a working performing artist, being the only WOC in the workplace, recently being "sweethearted,"  the the over-usage of the term "cancel culture" used as a "dog whistle."  We get into it!  We also have lots of fun. Saidah shares what brings her joy these days which is a new concept being that she's a workaholic. Christian shares an urgent urban wildlife PSA.  And Saidah shares some hot music tips including Serpent With Feet and NAO.  We could talk forever as you clearly can here!  Enjoy your September and we will be back with another episode live on October 26, 2021 - 8PM EST!  

WDEK Podcast Ep. 95: Merrill Davis & Táhlia Audrí - 8/31/21

Justin The Intern is the father of a month old baby! Whoa! Christian was mask shamed in Justin's home state.  Shonali learns what "bussin" means.  It's US Open Tennis Tournament time in NYC and we needed this!  Our guests are comedian, performers, writers Merrill Davis and Táhlia Audrí!

Merrill currently lives in Los Angeles.  She generously shares her expert napping techniques with us.  She's a pro napper and she and Christian may go into business together!  Merrill answers our questions about her experiences as a person with ADHD.  Merrill has been doing a solo show on the challenges she has faced and the misconceptions about ADHD called Merrill Means Well.  Follow her on IG to make sure you see her perform!!  

Táhlia Audri, originally hails from Charleston, SC but came to NYC to fulfill her dreams as an all around performer. She shares the joy of drinking from a green goblet.  Táhlia is relatively new to cycling in NYC and loves it.  We talk biking attire and the videos she's been making while on her treks in Central Park! Táhlia sings, acts, writes and she performs a song live on our show. She's in search of the perfect hair care products for her 4C hair - she "needs more options."  So go to her Twitter and share your advice if you will!  Tahlia's QT 2020 musical comedy parody about quarantine life can be found here! 

Special shout out to the Prospect Park Monarch Butterfly cyclist. If you know her, please let her know we love her.

Special shout out to Duane Harriott - former guest, former co-host and dear friend to WDEK!  Today is his last day on the air doing the #DUANETRAIN show - a legendary show on #WFMU which weekly has brought us joy, good vibes, grooves and happiness for years!  We love you Duane! Follow Duane on Soundcloud here! 

WDEK Podcast Ep. 93: Cisco Bradley & LaKendra Tookes - 6/29/21

Happy Pride Everyone!  We celebrate our friends and our fashion icon former guest Jack Dwyer!  June was the first month in a year and a half that we were social in a seemingly "normal" way.  Shonali's exhausted already.

Our first guest is Cisco Bradley!  He's an Author, Professor of Cultural & Social History, Free Jazz & and Experimental Music Aficionado!  Just what is "cultural production?"   Cisco has just published a book about the genius free jazz bassist William Parker, titled Universal Tonality. We dig deep into the philosophy and inspiring music & words of this influential artist whose career has spanned over 5 decades.  We tie together Mr. Parker's philosophy of life and art to the current state of the world.  Cisco says "...the history of the United States is the history of racism and the struggles against it..." We discuss underappreciated artists in America & Shonali brings up Shannon Wright, our former Ep. 61 guest! Turns out Cisco is also her fan! Cisco knows what's up! 

Father-to-be Justin The Intern gets his own Get It Off Your Chest segment and he surprises us all with what is annoying him today. We are all injured.  Christian insists everyone must get Zoom First Aid Kit. 

Our second guest is comedian, former SNL writer, actress LaKendra Tookes!  LaKendra does not discount out all catcallers! She shares what is acceptable.  LaKendra gives us an honest account of her times down time during this pandemic.  She has decided "she only wants to do work that uplifts & celebrates black people and black joy." She is resilient and radiates hope! LaKendra shares her guilty pleasure - reality tv! Did you know LaKendra and her dog Savannah are not scared of rabid squirrels?! 

And we leave you with the fresh summer dance hit by comedian Greg Barris! Check it out here on YouTube- Galimmimus! Enjoy and stay safe, mask up everyone.  The variant is surging across America! 

WDEK Podcast Ep. 92: Brandon Collins & Sara Schaefer - 5/25/21

The warm weather has arrived, masks are slowly coming off and Christian comes out HOT.  Shonali is in Nashville, Tennessee doing yard work and Justin The Intern is prepping for his role as a new father.  George Floyd's murder was a year ago to the day.  We discuss the importance of the moment surrounding the pandemic and social justice.  Will we be forever changed or suffer from amnesia? 

Christian Felix, Justin “The Intern,” Shonali Bhowmik

Comedian and film critic Brandon Collins comes to us on the high of interviewing Lin Manuel Miranda just the day before.  Brandon is from Ann Arbor, Michigan but has been in NYC for over a decade. He's doing cool things such as being a member of the African American Film Critics Association, hosting the Medium Popcorn podcast, a one man show called It's Not Going to Work Out.  We talk movies including White Christmas, A Quiet Place 2, and Sonic The Hedgehog.  Brandon is hosting his live comedy series, Drunk Black History on Juneteenth at The Bell House which will also be livestreamed! Don't miss it.  

Shonali and Christian catch up! Find out why Christian takes a 30 mile bike ride and why does he wear athletic shorts called Chubbies?

Christian Felix, Shonali Bhowmik, Brandon Collins

Comedian, writer, miniaturist Sara Schaefer joins us from her closet in Los Angeles!  Sara's Conspiracy Theory bit from her 2019 Comedy Central Special resonates even more today than it did in 2019.  We talk "reality", "both sides", the Q documentary and "what the hell does it all even mean?"  Sara has always been a hobbyist and is currently making a miniature comedy club called the Haha Hole which is blowing our minds.  Sara shares her creative journey in the past two years in which she has "gotten quieter" due to harassment on Twitter.  Focusing on creative work with her hands has made Sara think even more deeply about her creative work and her place in comedy.  We are fans of Sara's voice and the teaser for her new podcast truly has raising the roof!  Don't miss Sara's new podcast The Schaefer Shakedown. 

For the first time within the WDEK Virtual age, Shonali performs her pandemic healing anthem, I'll Be Your Therapy.  You can get the recorded version with all kinds of strange drum loops on Bandcamp.

Special thanks to Shonali's longtime friend Wes Adams, who donated his lighting, home and wine spritzers in a Mason Jar to Shonali & WDEK for taping the show in Nashville, TN.  Enjoy the sun and stay safe.  

WDEK Podcast Ep. 75: Trish Tillman, Clare O'Kane, Gary the Vampire, Lauren Maul - 10/29/2019

We are 75 Episodes old as of of tonight, October 29, 2019.  Our guest co-host is choreographer, teacher, tennis fanatic and trivia master Joe Celej. Joe joins Shonali Bhowmik to discuss all things horrific.  Joe and Shonali are joined by guests artist Trish Tillman, comedian Clare O'Kane, Gary The Vampire and performer, musician, comic Lauren Maul.  

Trish Tillman is a visual artist who lives currently in NYC and in one of Oscar Wilde's former residences.  We discuss the plight of an artist - working all alone for hours on end and not talking to anyone; having multiple jobs to supplement your income as an artist and making art as a child in Washington, DC.  Shonali is convinced Trish's sculptures are influenced by the art residency she did in India in terms of the colors, decorations, materials and simple forms she uses. We discuss Bollywood horror films, slackers & Trish's solo show opening at Aysa Geisberg Gallery in Chelsea on Thursday Nov.7.  Go to her opening party from 6-8pm to see her gorgeous work up close! 

Picture by Daria Huxley

Thomas Kelsey joins us from the audience to play the game, Name That Mystery Candy!  We blindfold him and find out how many candies he named correctly after Joe inserts the candy into Thomas Mouth. Congrats to Thomas who won some seriously wonderful gifts! 

Clare O'Kane is a comedian from San Jose, California. We discuss opening for the emo punk band Jawbox, being a newlywed, DNA testing and how she's changed as a comedian in the past 9 years.  Make sure to check out her comedy album, Let It Be and her work as a writer on the second season of Shrill. Be on the lookout for Clare in a comedy club near you! 

Gary The Vampire (aka comedian Matt Little) makes a surprise appearance at WDEK.  He's really loud and was born in the 1600's before NYC became edgy.  He quickly let us know, he's not into Halloween and we commiserate with him.  Did you know that Vampires wear jean jackets?  

Our final guest of the night is performer, creator, musician, comic and all around do everything artist Lauren Maul. She calls herself a good witch and hosts her own show called Gathering of the Coven during the full moon. She fills us in on her latest project, an album of love songs which come from her recent agreement with her husband to have an open marriage.  It turns out initially it wasn't easy for Lauren's husband to go along with Lauren's request, but a year later accommodated for her.  Lauren performs two original songs in the Red Room live, 1) With A Witch and 2) All Her Things. We hope you enjoy. 

Direct download: WDEK_Ep._75_-_October_29_2019.mp3

WDEK Podcast Ep. 90: Roxanne Khamsi & Rae Sanni - 3/30/2021

We are officially now a year into the pandemic! We are thankful for vaccines, our health, friends, family and this show.  Catching up on the heavy: Anti-Asian Hate, Chauvin trial, voter suppression & the good stuff: seafood enchiladas, the beach and puppy time!  Check out StopAAPIHate.org for ways to support the Asian American community now. 

Our first guest is our longtime friend & acclaimed science writer Roxanne Khamsi and notably she has focused her writing on viruses for years.  Roxanne moved to Montreal, Canada just over a year ago from NYC. We discuss where we are at with regard to conversations surrounding the coronavirus, washing vegetables, empathy, soaking cilantro and Canadian living.  Christian gives guidance on some of his favorite Montreal spots. 

Our second guest is currently Los Angeles based comedian and writer Rae Sanni who misses her hometown of NYC very much. Rae was a former staff writer for shows like The President's Show, The Good Place, A Black Lady Sketch Show.  We talk hoarding, comedy gigs during the pandemic, the virtual writer's room, & Rae's journey to making comedy a career choice.  Rae is OBSESSED with Reality TV.  She breaks down for us just why she loves certain reality tv shows over others.  Rae even makes Christian & Shonali want to become new audience members of the RHWOSLC (yes, there is now a Real Housewives of Salt Lake City!) When we get back to live performances, make sure you see Rae on stage! 

In honor of Women's History Month, we suggest you watch the new Tina Turner Documentary.  As Christian says, Tina Turner is a shero. Her remarkable strength, grace, will and her perseverance through her life's struggles is inspiration to us all.   To all stay diligent, enjoy the sunshine & thanks for supporting us all these years!  Follow us on our socials.  

WDEK Podcast Ep. 90: Roxanne Khamsi & Rae Sanni - 3/30/2021

WDEK Podcast Ep. 89: Anuvab Pal, Bryan Malone & Lori Schwarz - 2/23/21

We are celebrating a full month of having a new POTUS in the White House, Shonali's new jumpsuit, expectant father Justin the Intern and comedian Anuvab Pal guest joining us all the way from the UK where it is 2AM.  Anuvab is a comedian, screenwriter, playwright, author among many other things.  We discuss finding humor in the complicated history between Indian and Great Britain, the emerging Indian comedy scene, millenials and history, Zoom yoga, surviving the pandemic in India & the great Bollywood Classic Disco Dancer. 

Our longtime WDEK friend & bartender Lori Schwarz joins us from the Red Room our old stomping grounds before the pandemic.  She teaches us how to make a Flirtini: 2 oz Vodka, 3/4 oz Chambord or any raspberry liqueur, 2 oz pineapple juice.  Make sure to listen to her shaker shaking techniques!  

Musician Bryan Malone joins from Atlanta, GA!  Bryan is the frontman of the band The Forty-Fives and Bad Spell & pre- pandemic was the club booker/promoter for the legendary Star Community Bar.  He currently hosts the Post-Apocalyptic Malone Show weekly on Thursday nights on FB Live.  Bryan has come up with a way of staying creative &  connected to friends and the outside world during a time when we have all been trapped at home.  Christian reminds us of the importance of hygiene during the pandemic.  

Bryan performs one of his Bad Spell songs called Wastin' Time On You.  Check them out on Bandcamp! and don't miss him every Thursday night 8PM EST on The Post-Apocalyptic Malone Show. 

The WDEK Crew regroups to congratulate Justin The Intern on the big news! Justin and his fiancee Laura are expecting a little boy this year!  We will consider changing his nickname when he becomes a father to Justin the Father Intern.  

WDEK Podcast Ep. 89: Anuvab Pal, Bryan Malone & Lori Schwarz - 2/23/21

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 4: Katie Compa, Brad Lauretti, Nimesh Patel, Maggy Adeleye & John Early - 11/3/20

In our final edition, Part 4 of the WDEK Election Special Episode, comedian Katie Compa shares with us ways she copes with ongoing Election Day anxieties.  

Musician Brad Lauretti brings us the fire.  We talk the John Lewis graphic novel, existential threats & good people believing false propaganda. He gives us his Election Day predictions along with performing his song Dumb It Down. 

Find out how comedian & weed smoker Nimesh Patel's father voted on the NJ legalize marijuana referendum.  Have you ever heard of the Indian beverage bhang? Let Nimesh and Shonali explain.  Go now to check out Nimesh's new half hour comedy special  online at Patel2020.com.

Musician Maggy Adeleye shares her beautiful voice with us by performing her song Fullstorm.  Christian has fro jealousy.  We talk voter unenthusiasm & invisible voices. 

 Jason's twin brother Jiminy makes a special appearanceo on WDEK also the WDEK crew loves each other.

Our final guest is one of our first ever WDEK guests; comedian, actor, & activist John Early.  He comes with a beard! You have seen him on Search Party as Elliott Goss, but most recently you may have seen John work his ass off on behalf of the Marquita Bradshaw for Senate campaign in Tennessee.  We discuss politicization of bread & butter issues, his sweater & for the first time ever, he announces his candidacy to the world. His Twitter is @bejohnce! Make sure to watch this comedy classic Sardines Out of A Can.

WE DID IT EVERYONE! That's it for the 4 part Election Day special. We hope our marathon show provided some comfort, fun and silly nonsense to soothe your minds as it did ours! 

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 4: Katie Compa, Brad Lauretti, Nimesh Patel, Maggy Adeleye & John Early - 11/3/20

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 3: Tyson Meade, Negin Farsad, Emmarose, Corn Mo & "Keith Raniere" (played by Roy Koshy)

Part 3 (of 4) of our Marathon Special Election Day Ep. 86 opens with the Godfather of Alt-Rock Tyson Meade who has been cited by Kurt Cobain as one of his influences. Tyson performs Feel Like A Drugstore in front of Midway Grocery in Oklahoma City, OK.  

Writer, comedian, actress Negin Farsad joins us from NYC. She celebrates Election Day by purchasing lots of desserts. Christian and Shonali approve.  Why isn't Election Day a festive national holiday? Negin makes many "astute points" regarding the ease with we should make voting in the United States. 

17 year old Singer-songwriter Emmrose discusses her feelings on  being too young to vote.  From talking with her, she seems more prepared to vote than many of the thirty somethings we know. Emmrose sings one of her newest releases Grass Is Greener.  

Corn Mo is a multi-talented musician and songwriter.  Have you ever met an accordianist before? His hat collection may top David Cross'. He's been saving money by performing on livestream shows and not having to catch cabs these days.  We are lucky to have him perform the beautiful song Superman  about a man waking up his son to watch Superman with him on tv. 

For the first time ever, NXVM cult leader "Keith Raniere" (played by actor/comedian Roy Koshy) gives WDEK an exclusive interview from prison.  Christian and Shonali are SPEECHLESS.  We talk volleyball, magical semen, fortune cookies, and the presidential election! 

Hang in there everyone!  Ep. 96 Part 4 & Ep. 87 on its way.  

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 3: Tyson Meade, Negin Farsad, Emmarose, Corn Mo & "Keith Raniere" (played by Roy Koshy)

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 2: Kendra Cunningham, Jeff Goldstein, Eric Slovin, Chelsea White, Tash Neal & Tommy Do - 11/3/20

We continue with Part 2 (of 4) of Ep. 86 our Election Day marathon special begins with the wonderful Kendra Cunningham. She's a comedian, actress, writer who voted on Election Day. We discuss her new Brooklyn apartment with a BACKYARD, Kendra look-alikes, and making a lot of money.  

Our 2nd guest is restaurateur and children's book author Jeff Goldstein out of Charleston, SC.  He has some "bones to pick" with our prior guests. He also gives us some expected bad news regarding SC election returns but also surprises us with some promising news about dirty politics. 

Comedian Eric Slovin joins us from his abode in Brooklyn.  Eric is a lifelong New Yorker. He not only shares his astute observations regarding NYC, but also answers not one but two "How Democracy Works" trivia questions correctly.  Most impressively, for the first time ever, Eric Slovin reads his poem written just for WDEK, titled "Brooklyn Bridge."

A match made in WDEK heaven and by WDEK heaven, comedian Chelsea White & musician Tash Neal share their brilliance as a duo for the first time performing NYSNC's "It's Gonna Be Me."  Let's hope 2021 brings us a brand new Cheltash show called "Couch Karaoke!"

In response to Christian's problems with urban wildlife, and the albino squirrel sightings in Park Slope, Justin The Intern reports back to us that our audience member, Michael, also Christian's cousin has heard of an albino deer sighting.  Congrats to Matt Arnold (our earlier guest) and Michael Terrell Ford III answers our WDEK trivia question correctly!  

Our last guest of this segment is comedian, professional ice skater and IG star Tommy Do!  Tommy sent us a sweet video from his bed regarding voting.  He also graciously let us in on his very personal list of favorite things. Do you know what a #ThirstTrap is? Tommy makes fun of them on IG and he's so good at it.  

Alright y'all that's it for Part 2 of 4 of our Election Day Special. Thank you all for voting and listening! Part 3 & 4 coming soon!  

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 2: Kendra Cunningham, Jeff Goldstein, Eric Slovin, Chelsea White, Tash Neal & Tommy Do - 11/3/20

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 1: Marcellus Hall, David Cross, Jon Glaser, Matt Arnold & Cocoon Central Dance Team - 11/3/20

WDEK Election Day Special: Please Vote America was a special episode with comedy, music, guest pop ins from across the country, videos and chat all in place. Our guests include John Early, Tash Neal, Chelsea White, Kendra Cunningham, David Cross, Cocoon Central Dance Team, Jon Glaser, Marcellus Hall, Tommy Do, Katie Compa, Negin Farsad, Nimesh Patel, Katie Compa, Eric Slovin, Tyson Meade, Marcellus Hall, Maggy Adeleye, Brad Lauretti, Emmrose, Matt Arnold and more!  We celebrate voting!

In Part 1 of 4, our guests include Marcellus Hall, Jon Glaser, Matt Arnold, Cocoon Central Dance Team & David Cross.  Our first guest is musician, illustrator Marcellus Hall joins us performing a brand new tune off his forthcoming album called The Kitchen Sink Blues. 

Comedian Jon Glaser appears in his most amazing Detroit Pistons attire. We divert our thoughts on voting to discuss #urbanwildlife and Jon leaves us with #moreproof of why Christian's fears of squirrels are warranted. 

Matt Arnold of The Iowa Idea Podcast joined us from Iowa, duh. He gave us the lowdown on Iowa demographics and voting patterns.  He also is our first guest to own a laminate WDEK press pass. Check out his friend Andre Wright's #HumanizeMyHoodie movement/

Cocoon Central Dance Team (Sunita Mani, Eleanore Pienta, Tallie Medel) shared their talents with us via video! For those of you who would like to SEE these wunderkinds in action - check out our video of the show at 45:37 on Facebook and 45:29 on YouTube!

Our next guest is comedian, actor, writer David Cross. He takes a break from his hat modelling side hustle gig to talk to us about all things including Covid19 travel, voting, James Patterson vs Rob Pattinson, makeup skills, skincare & pondering with us on just WTH are Trump voters thinking.  

David along with us thank all of you who have been working as first responders, voting workers, volunteering to get out the vote, and those of you who voted! Looks like 2021 may be looking up for us!  Stay tuned for parts 2-4!  

WDEK Election Day Special Ep. 86 - Part 1: Marcellus Hall, David Cross, Jon Glaser, Matt Arnold & Cocoon Central Dance Team - 11/3/20

WDEK Podcast Ep. 85: John Feal and Keisha Zollar - 10/27/20

Out the gate, our show gets down to the real. Shonali & Christian break it down regarding snuggle buddies during covid, cult leaders and unique social distancing philosophies. The description "Hobbit Ball" was invented in this discussion.

Our first guest is John Feal, inspirational activist and founder of The Feal Good Foundation.  He was a 9/11 responder and is responsible for enacting 13 pieces of legislation which provides & protect the healthcare of 9/11 and first responders injured and/or currently sick caused by their heroic work.  He has partnered with Jon Stewart for years doing this work and they are currently working to pass legislation to provide healthcare for veterans sickened by their work near burn pits. The best description of why John is so successful is that he calls bullshit when he sees it.  You must follow him on Twitter @JohnFeal1 (The Real John Feal) to witness this. He was suspended on Twitter for a few days because he is so real. There's so much important here to listen to but takeaways are "America needs a break," "Help a stranger," "Everyone can get involved." 

Special announcement! We are hosting our own WDEK Election Day Special livestream on Nov. 3rd with special guests from across the country including David Cross, Tash Neal, Jon Glaser, Negin Farsad, John Early and many more.  

Our final guest is writer, comedian, actress Keisha Zollar. She is the founder of the first UCB all black sketch comedy group, The Astronomy Club which also got its own Netflix series.  She has spent the better part of the pandemic in her time working in her studio apartment which she shares with her husband and her dogs, Johnny Cash (just passed away), Loretta Lynn and Hank Williams Sr.  Listen to find out what gives Keisha hope these days and how she fulfills the notion of being authentic.  Check out her work currently on the reboot of the British satirical television puppet show, Spitting Image and she's working with Lilly Singh on her upcoming special! 

Stay strong all and catch us on our Election Day Marathon Special on Nov. 3rd on YouTube Live or Facebook Live here. 

WDEK Podcast Ep. 85: John Feal and Keisha Zollar - 10/27/20

WDEK Podcast Ep. 84: Rodney White & Jack Dwyer - 9/29/20

During these pandemic times and social unrest, we are so thankful for our time together on We Don't Even Know.  We are especially thankful for Christian's first time reading of a letter he may or may not have received from his white family.  It is very touching.

Our first guest is artist Rodney White.  Rodney is an artist originally from August, GA who now lives Brooklyn, NY.   Rodney explains how his gear line Black On Black BK was created as a way to process trauma.  We talk what gives him hope in these times, multi-hyphenates &  how work makes a statement and starts a conversation!  See Christian & Shonali wearing their' Black on Black shirts on the show.  

Our own Jason Lam is a tech wizard who often warns his friends as to how AI may be used in evil ways in the future! Here he shares his gorgeous AI children with us. See the video on YouTube  For the first time ever Christian & Shonali make a wardrobe change in honor of their friend and guest singer & dancer Jack Dwyer!  

Singer, actor, dancer along Jack Dwyer and his Scandal wine goblet explains to us how he made the most of his Covid summer.  We had no idea that there is a gay Quidditch league in NYC. Jack is a gay man who does not play in it.  Jack continues to bring Christian & Shonali much joy and sings a beautiful rendition of Adele's Daydreamer for us. Go to ItsJackDwyer to enjoy more of his delightful spitfire-self!

WDEK Podcast Ep. 84: Rodney White & Jack Dwyer - 9/29/20

WDEK Podcast Ep. 83: Raj Sivaraman & K. Michelle DuBois - 8/25/20

Pandemic times are still something that we are still getting used to. Stay diligent everyone as the fall approaches us.  Christian and Shonali appreciate each other a little more on this day. Christian learns an important lesson from Shonali.  Shonali is thankful that Christian is honest with her. Did you know that bicycle theft and self haircuts are on the rise during a pandemic? Our guests are comedian & scientist Raj Sivaraman, and musician K. Michelle DuBois.

Our first guest is virologist (someone who studies viruses) and comedian Raj Sivaraman who recently moved from NYC to Arizona.  Things are very different in Arizona.  We discuss mixed messaged, the neck gator controversy, the coronavirus being like the Goldilocks scenario of virus scares, being from Kentucky, In and Out Burger and we quiz Raj on his knowledge of conspiracy theories.  You will not find Raj Sivaraman doing virtual open mics BUT you should follow him on Twitter. 

Shonali's husband - artist & mural painter Jasper Patch joins WDEK for the first time for Get It Off Your Chest! We cover mix-tape friend listening etiquette, call & response Zoom etiquette, Julia Louis Dreyfus as host of DNC, buyer's remorse for presidential candidacies AND the deli getting your order slightly wrong.  

Shonali Bhowmik & K. Michelle DuBois playing together on stage

Our final guest is Shonali's longtime best childhood friend and longtime musical collaborator K. Michelle DuBois.  Michelle comes to us from Atlanta, Georgia.  It's a wonderful journey through the friendship of two childhood friends who discovered music together as little kids and who made their dreams become real life adventures as adults.  Christian takes Michelle and Shonali through a photographic roller coaster ride from Baskin Robbins, to hip hop and ultimately to the rock and roll stage which they have never left.  Christian quizzes Michelle on this journey and asks about her podcast Zen Noodle Pie.  Laughter is a constant.  Michelle has her upcoming (fourth) solo album coming out in early 2021 called "The Fever Returns."  She performs a new song "Becoming Real" live on our show.  Go to KMichelleDuBois.com to hear more of her fantastic music! 

WDEK Podcast Ep. 83: Raj Sivaraman & K. Michelle DuBois - 8/25/20

WDEK Podcast Ep. 82: 8 yr Anniversary w Shalewa Sharpe - 7/28/20

Christian Felix, Shonali Bhowmik and Justin The Intern celebrated their 8 Yr. Anniversary with special guest comedian Shalewa Sharpe on 7/28/20. Christian and Shonali chose highlights from their over 80 episodes to discuss with Shalewa. Topics covered include pandemic fashion, sanitizing body parts, your only black friend, mask culture, white activism, NYC sex guidelines, marijuana laugh, roasting skills, the "good guy" syndrome, BLM, holidays personified as people, hardwired for hope, job security, Mr. Show, fart punctuation and Jason Lam & Jiminy. Shalewa was hilarious & gracious as usual, sharing with us her unique innate wisdom and says "Even I didn't know I was that deep." We shared highlights from our prior shows with guest appearances by Chelsea Peretti, Kenice Mobley, M. Lamar, Jeremy O. Harris, Patrick Waldo, Nore Davis, Sean Patton, May Jeong, Melena Ryzik, Felice Rosser. Even Shonali's husband Jasper Patch makes an appearance. You can check out the video version of the show on Facebook here!

WDEK Podcast Ep. 82: 8 yr Anniversary w Shalewa Sharpe - 7/28/20

WDEK Podcast Ep.81: Hannibal Buress & Nicole Atkins - 5/26/20

Special guests comedian Hannibal Buress and musician Nicole Atkins join WDEK tonight! Christian, Shonali and Justin The Intern are still in their apartments in NYC.  This has been an especially rough week for everyone.  WDEK's mission is to spread the love with its first Garbage Giveaway including a hand me down tracksuit  and an ancient fondue set.  Congrats to our winners!  As this is a Zoom recording, please bear with us as there are some small hiccups in the sound due to the video freezes. 

Comedian, actor & rapper Hannibal Buress joins us from Gas Station, Arizona!  He explains how he got his comedy career started at the mini mart behind him. The man does it all, everything from rap to play all star celebrity basketball.  His new hit  Judge Judy is available now on iTunes.  Check it out! The song comes from the view of a person who was on the show and who is willing to get "roasted by Judge Judy." 

All the way from California, Nate Pierce joins us for Get It Off Your Chest!  Christian has some choice words for his friends.  Shonali  and celeb quarantining clickbait stories do not go together. Nate has issues with the passive aggressive pooper scoopers in his hood. 

Musician Nicole Atkins comes to us live from her attic in Nashville, TN. Nicole has a brand new album, Italian Ice which was just released on May 29, 2020 and available now.  Nicole's new release is a feel good album inspired by her NJ beach days and the boardwalk vibes of Asbury Park.  Nicole has come far from the days when she booked intimate shows in the small back room of Radio Perfecto in the East Village, NYC. She performs Domino live in her attic complete with sparkly curtains and disco lights.  

Thank you for your support and subscribe to us on iTunes. If you'd like to see our faces you can see our show on FB livestream here.  We also are on Youtube!  Stay safe everyone.

WDEK Podcast Ep.81: Hannibal Buress & Nicole Atkins - 5/26/20

WDEK Podcast Ep. 79: Andrea Rosen, Brian Bahe & Chris Maxwell - 3/31/20

WDEK notes the seriousness of these times and our hearts are with all the first responders and health care workers working on the frontlines during this pandemic. You are our heroes. We have friends that are sick with Covid-19 and we are thinking of you and send love your way.  We hope that our show provides a little bit of lightness, fun, connection and somewhat of an escape for you in this time of crisis. 

For the first time ever, We Don't Even Know w Christian Felix Justin Hall and Shonali Bhowmik did a Self Isolation FB Live Stream show. Thanks to everyone who was with us and special thanks to our brilliant guests - Andrea Rosen Brian Bahe and Chris Maxwell!  Christian, Justin and Shonali come to you from each of their self isolation abodes in NYC.  They discuss their coping methods and their own do's and don'ts during a pandemic.  Also Christian is giving away a fondue set.

Our first guest is actress, comedian and Shonali's Variety Shac sister Andrea Rosen! Andrea did not wash her hair or shave her armpits. We discuss why self isolation with young children in LA is much better than self isolation in NYC. Other topics include making a horror film with her husband John Gemberling and her kids. Hopefully we'll get to see it on Vimeo along with her new film The Rain Poncho.

Our second guest is comedian Brian Bahe who is self isolating in Ridgewood, NYC. He has newly dyed hair and comes from Arizona. Have you ever been a part of a dad comedy scene? Well Brian came to NYC to avoid doing just that. Brian has a unique voice in comedy in that he is Native American and gay. We talk family, fetishes and coming out. Look for Brian's IG show "R U OK?" It's so great!

Our final guest is singer, songwriter and guitar god Chris Maxwell who is isolating with 3 women (his wonderful wife Kelly and two former WDEK musical guests Ambrosia Parsley & Holly Miranda)and 2 kids in Woodstock, NY. That's what you can do in the country. Chris has just released a beautiful full length release called New Store No.2. He is a longtime friend of Shonali's and she can't stop talking about that. He is a sharp dressed man and is "good with the ladies." He performs two songs in his studio live with the help of his friends Ambrosia and Holly, 1) Most of What I Learned I Learned from Women and 2) Away We Go. For those of you who'd like to see our amazing faces: Here's our FB Live Version of the show: https://www.facebook.com/WDEKPodcast/videos/250355722765374/Here's our YouTube Version of the show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpN3H0qRo6EEveryone Stay Safe and Stay At Home! Let's face it, we will be in self isolation a month from now - so we will live stream again. See you there.

WDEK Podcast Ep. 79: Andrea Rosen, Brian Bahe & Chris Maxwell - 3/31/20