Doctor Vs Comedian

Today, Ali and Asif discuss Judd Apatow’s new Netflix documentary ‘Norm:The Tale of Norm MacDonald’. They discuss Apatow’s connection to MacDonald as well as Apatow’s approach to constructing the documentary. They then discuss the documentary itself, including the issue of MacDonald being an unreliable narrator. They also discuss Norm’s love of literature, religion and of course, his roast of Bob Saget. They then give their final thoughts in the doc overall and how it gives us new insight into his final years. Then the guys discuss the tragic case involving a woman with epilepsy whose reliance on ChatGPT for medical advice allegedly contributed to changes in her antiseizure medication resulting in before her death. Ali then asks Asif about Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), one of the most devastating complications of epilepsy. Asif reviews the definition and epidemiology of SUDEP, its historical recognition, major risk factors, and the proposed mechanisms underlying these deaths. He then goes over the strong association between generalized tonic-clonic seizures and SUDEP, the importance of seizure control and medication adherence, and the potential role of epilepsy surgery, nighttime supervision and seizure-detection devices in reducing risk.The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianInstagram: doctorvcomedianShow Notes:Judd Apatow On Piecing Together ‘Norm: The Tale Of Norm Macdonald’ - https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottking/2026/10/15/judd-apatow-on-piecing-together-norm-the-tale-of-norm-macdonald/How Judd Apatow’s Insatiable Curiosity Led to Documentaries on Norm Macdonald and Maria Bamford - https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2026-10-19/judd-apatow-norm-macdonald-maria-bamford-documentary-netflixRichard Farnsworth's Dignity and Grace: https://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/article/richard-farnsworth-s-dignity-and-grace-3238556.phpChatGPT, Medication and an Epilepsy-Related Death - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/27/well/ai-chatgpt-medication-epilepsy-death.htmlParents of Woman Who Died of Seizure After ChatGPT Misguidance Sue OpenAI - https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/nov/01/chatgpt-woman-seizure-lawsuit-openaiSudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy: A Critical View of the Literature - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/epi4.12722Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy: Epidemiology, Mechanisms, and Prevention - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27571159/

Today, Ali and Asif discuss the recent death of acclaimed actor Patrick Stewart (1:33). Stewart died quite quickly of Lewy Body dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Because of this, Asif does a mini- medical section at the start of the podcast discussing the rapidly progressive form of Lewy Body dementia. They then discuss when they first saw Patrick Stewart in the premiere episode of ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’. They then discuss their favourite episodes which focus on Patrick’s Jean-Luc Picard (spoilers abound). They discuss Stewart's portrayal of Charles Xavier in the X-Men movies and how his performance in ‘Logan’ may mirror the rapidly progressive form of Lewy Body dementia. They then remember some of his other roles including in ‘Extras’, ‘American Dad’, ‘Green Room’ and ‘Bait’. Then, Ali asks Asif about creatine, one of the most popular and increasingly discussed dietary supplements (26:50). Asif explores what creatine is, how it works to support cellular energy production, and whether it actually improves strength, athletic performance, muscle growth, and recovery. They then discuss whether creatine is useful for endurance athletes, women navigating perimenopause and menopause, older adults hoping to maintain muscle mass, and vegetarians and vegans. He then goes over the emerging research on potential cognitive benefits, practical questions about dosing and supplementation, and some of the most common concerns surrounding safety, including kidney damage, dehydration, gastrointestinal symptoms, and weight gain. Finally Asif gives his thoughts on if creatine really worth taking and who is most likely to benefit? The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianInstagram: doctorvcomedianShow Notes:Patrick Stewart, ‘Star Trek’ Captain and ‘X-Men’ Superhero, Dies at 86: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/patrick-stewart-dead-star-trek-x-men-1236742932/See Sir Patrick Stewart Become ‘Cowboy Pat’ in Cheeky Country Infomercial - https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/patrick-stewart-cowboy-songs-video-1235650349/Clinical, Neuropathological, and Molecular Characteristics of Rapidly Progressive Dementia with Lewy Bodies: A Distinct Clinicopathological Entity? - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13195-024-01565-xThe Emerging and Evolving Evidence Supporting Creatine as an Ergogenic Aid: History and Applications - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13011109/International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Safety and Efficacy of Creatine Supplementation in Exercise, Sport, and Medicine - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5469049/“Heads Up” for Creatine Supplementation and Its Potential Applications for Brain Health and Function - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-023-01870-9Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Cognitive Function of Healthy Individuals: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29704637/

Today, prior to the start of the actual episode the guys banter about Asif “mis-watching” the movie ‘Backrooms’ and Ali’s guest spot on ‘Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent. Then Asif asks Ali about the recent controversy surrounding Sebastian Maniscalco and Sirius XM. Ali first discusses his relationship with Maniscalco. He then goes over the history of the old Sirius channel, the re-brand to a Sebastian Maniscalco curated channel and how this cuts out the ‘middle class” of comedians. They then discuss Maniscalco’s response. Then, Asif and Ali examine the history, pharmacology, and medical ethics of lethal injection, prompted by the reported failed execution of Christa Pike in Tennessee in September 2026. Pike was convicted of the 1995 murder of Colleen Slemmer and became the focus of renewed scrutiny of execution protocols after a reported attempt using pentobarbital left her alive and critically ill. Ali asks Asif about how lethal injection became the preferred method of execution in the United States, the evolution from the original three-drug protocol to newer single-drug approaches, and the challenges associated with drug availability, intravenous delivery, and potential tissue injury. Asif then discusses the limits of the scientific evidence supporting claims that lethal injection reliably produces unconsciousness and prevents suffering, as well as the ethical boundaries established by medical organizations that prohibit physician participation in executions. The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianInstagram: doctorvcomedianShow NotesSebastian Maniscalco criticized for 'crushing middle-class comedians' with SiriusXM channel rebrand - https://ew.com/sebastian-maniscalco-criticized-for-crushing-middle-class-comedians-with-siriusxm-channel-rebrand-12161580 The Satellite-Radio Drama Tearing Comedians Apart - https://www.vulture.com/article/sebastian-maniscalcos-comedy-radio-royalties.html Sebastian Maniscalco Responds to Backlash After SiriusXM Comedy Deal: 'Give Me Time' - https://people.com/sebastian-maniscalco-responds-to-backlash-after-siriusxm-comedy-deal-give-me-time-12165357 Christa Pike Discharged From Hospital After Surviving Execution - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/10/us/politics/christa-pike-discharged-hospital-survive-execution.htmlChrista Pike: What to know about the case of Tennessee death row inmate - https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/ahead-rare-execution-lone-woman-tennessee-death-row-says-peace-rcna600279 A Failed Execution and the Future of the Death Penalty: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/08/podcasts/the-daily/pike-execution-death-penalty.htmlPhysicians and Execution - https://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJMe0800032Clinicians' Involvement in Capital Punishment — Constitutional Implications: https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMp1405651

For this week, the guys will be re-airing one of their favourite episodes from our archives.Today, the guys discuss Hasan Minhaj’s new comedy special “Off With His Head” (despite Asif’s hesitation) (2:18). The guys start off by recapping Hasan’s background and the controversy that swirled around him in 2023, associated with a New Yorker article which resulted in Minhaj losing the hosting role of “The Daily Show”. Then they give their thoughts on the good and bad aspects of his new special and his non-apology in the show. Then, Ali asks Asif about his sabbatical where he is learning about deep brain stimulation (DBS) (35:30). Asif talks about what it is and how it is used in a variety of neurologic diseases in adults especially in Parkinson’s disease. He talks about the procedure including the risks. Finally, Ali asks Asif about what it is currently being used for in children. The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianInstagram: doctorvcomedianShow Notes:Hasan Minhaj’s “Emotional Truths”: https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-communications/hasan-minhajs-emotional-truthsHasan Minhaj confirms he lost The Daily Show hosting gig because of jokes scandal, recalls intense call with Jon Stewart: https://ew.com/hasan-minhaj-confirms-losing-the-daily-show-new-yorker-controversy-jon-stewart-call-8718856Hasan Minhaj’s Career Isn’t the Only Thing the New Yorker Controversy Derailed: https://slate.com/culture/2024/10/hasan-minhaj-off-with-his-head-netflix-special-new-yorker-controversy.htmlA New Special Finds Hasan Minhaj Relaxed, Confident, and Ready to Move Past the BacklashA New Special Finds Hasan Minhaj Relaxed, Confident, and Ready to Move Past the Backlash: https://time.com/7096089/hasan-minhaj-off-with-his-head-netflix/Hasan Minhaj Breaks Bad: https://www.vulture.com/article/hasan-minhaj-off-with-his-head-close-read.htmlEpisode 1273 Hasan Minhaj: http://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/episode-1273-hasan-minhajHow Hasan Minhaj's 'insider-outsider' relationship with America fuels his Netflix comedy show: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/q/wednesday-aug-28-2019-hasan-minhaj-jennifer-podemski-and-more-1.5261297/how-hasan-minhaj-s-insider-outsider-relationship-with-america-fuels-his-netflix-comedy-show-1.5261347Deep brain stimulation: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/deep-brain-stimulation/about/pac-20384562Deep brain stimulation: https://www.michaeljfox.org/deep-brain-stimulationDeep brain stimulation: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557847/Deep brain stimulation: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21088-deep-brain-stimulation#risks-benefits

For this week, the guys will be re-airing one of their favourite episodes from our archives.The guys start off this episode with Asif reviewing Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Then Asif asks Ali about his thoughts on Larry David, ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and cringe comedy. Ali talks about the influence of Ricky Gervais (The Office) and Sacha Baron Cohen (Da Ali G Show) on cringe comedy. After an aside about the new Willow TV show, the guys talk about Larry David and why he is shocked that ‘Curb’ makes people cringe. They guys then talk about their favourite moments and characters from the show. Then Ali asks Asif about ‘male menopause’ and they discuss why the preferred terms are Andropause or Male Hypogonadism. Asif goes over the symptoms and how one can be tested for it. Asif then goes over the options for treatment for diagnosed individuals, as well as some of the side effects of treatment. The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianInstagram: doctorvcomedianShow Notes:How Larry David Makes You Cringe: https://medium.com/wisecrack/how-larry-david-makes-you-cringe-f6c1a1fa9ae4Watch the Evolution of Cringe Comedy in 9 Clips: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/29/arts/television/larry-david-curb-your-enthusiasm-cringe-comedy.htmlLarry David Is ‘Shocked’ That ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ Makes People Cringe: https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2020/01/larry-david-shocked-curb-your-enthusiasm-makes-people-cringeEvery Episode of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm,’ Ranked: https://www.theringer.com/tv/2020/3/23/21188827/curb-your-enthusiasm-episode-rankings-updatedSharing the Enthusiasm: https://www.theringer.com/tv/2021/11/19/22789464/curb-your-enthusiasm-cameos-oral-historyMale menopause: Myth or reality? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/male-menopause/art-20048056Male hypogonadism: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-hypogonadism/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354886Is testosterone therapy safe? Take a breath before you take the plunge: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/is-testosterone-therapy-safe-take-a-breath-before-you-take-the-plungeTestosterone Therapy for Hypogonadism Guideline Resources: https://www.endocrine.org/clinical-practice-guidelines/testosterone-therapy#2Testosterone Treatments: Why, When, and How? https://www.aafp.org/afp/2006/0501/p1591.html

Today, Ali and Asif discuss the New York Times list of the top 100 shows of the 21st century and then they each give their individual top 10 lists (2:14). Listen to hear where ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Wire’, ‘Arrested Development’, ‘Succession’ and others land on their lists!Then, based on the recent Hyrox diarrhea incident involving Joanna Wietrzyk, the guys discuss runner’s diarrhea (39:33)– a common manifestation of exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms (Ex-GIS), characterized by urgency, abdominal cramping, loose stools, and diarrhea during or shortly after running. Although usually benign and self-limited, gastrointestinal symptoms affect roughly 30–50% of endurance athletes with longer, more intense exercise, running, heat, dehydration, dietary factors, caffeine, NSAIDs, and aggressive carbohydrate or fluid intake increasing risk. The underlying mechanisms are discussed, including reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract during exercise and mechanical effects. Asif then discusses how runners can distinguish typical exercise-related symptoms from red flags such as bloody or persistent diarrhea, weight loss, or symptoms occurring outside exercise, as well as practical prevention strategies including hydration, nutrition adjustments, “gut training,” and selective use of a short-term low-FODMAP approach. The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions.Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianShow Notes:Here is the list in the requested format:The100 Best TV Shows of the 21st Century: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/arts/television/best-tv-shows-21st-century.htmlHYROX athlete forfeits victory, apologizes for diarrhea incident: https://www.newsnationnow.com/us-news/sports/hyrox-athlete-joanna-wietrzyk-apologizes-forfeits-diarrhea/Runner's diarrhea: what is it, what causes it, and how can it be prevented? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27798441/

The case of Lindsay Clancy recently ended in mistrial, so today Asif and Ali discuss post partrum depression and psychosis. The guys start off by discussing discuss postpartum depression/perinatal depression (3:58), a common and treatable medical condition that can affect parents during pregnancy or after childbirth. They explore how postpartum depression differs from the “baby blues,” how to recognize symptoms beyond simply feeling tired or overwhelmed, and why depression may begin during pregnancy rather than after delivery. They then discuss risk factors, screening questions, the effects of untreated depression on parents, babies, and families, and the fact that fathers and non-birthing partners can also experience perinatal depression. Finally, Asif goes over evidence-based treatments, including psychotherapy and antidepressant medications, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms early, reducing stigma, and ensuring that parents have access to appropriate care. Then they discuss postpartum psychosis (17:26), a rare but serious psychiatric emergency that typically develops within days after childbirth. Asif and Ali explore what postpartum psychosis looks like—including hallucinations, delusions, confusion, severe agitation, extreme insomnia, mania, and dramatic changes in behavior—and how it differs from postpartum depression and the “baby blues.” Asif then discusses the strong association with bipolar disorder, why postpartum psychosis can be the first presentation of a major psychiatric illness, and the risk factors and warning signs that families should recognize. They also examine the potential risks to both parent and baby, why immediate medical and psychiatric evaluation is essential, how clinicians investigate possible medical causes, and treatments including antipsychotic medications, lithium, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Most importantly, he discusses why postpartum psychosis should be treated as an emergency—and why, with prompt recognition and appropriate treatment, most people recover.Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianShow Notes:Key moments in the Lindsay Clancy case: the 911 call, mental health care, mistrial: https://apnews.com/article/lindsay-clancy-massachusetts-trial-key-moments-3347cdc3f6c0c27c9d388d9696844771Incorporating Recognition and Management of Perinatal Depression Into Pediatric Practice: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/143/1/e20183260/37306/Incorporating-Recognition-and-Management-of?autologincheck=redirectedPostpartum Depression - URL https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmcp1607649?utm_source=openevidence (New England Journal of Medicine)Postpartum psychiatric disorders - URL https://www.nature.com/articles/nrdp201822 (Nature)Establishment of the MGH Postpartum Psychosis Project: MGHP3 - URL https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9910633/ (PubMed)Screening and Diagnosis of Mental Health Conditions During Pregnancy and Postpartum: ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline No. 4 - URL https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/abstract/10.1097/aog.0000000000005200~screening-and-diagnosis-of-mental-health-conditions-during?redirectionsource=fulltextview (PubMed)

Today Asif and Ali combine the medicine and entertainment subjects when they discuss “I Swear” – the BAFTA award winning movie about Tourette Syndrome (1:52). They chat about the background of the movie and how it is based on activist John Davidson, who has a severe version of Tourette Syndrome. They review how the film was developed, including discussion about director Kirk Jones and star Robert Aramayo. Then they give their thoughts on the film and single out Aramayo’s performance, which was awarded the BAFTA for Best Lead Actor earlier on this year. Then, they welcome guest Dr. Tamara Pringsheim to discuss the portrayal of Tourette Syndrome in ‘I Swear’ (13:59). Dr. Tamara Pringsheim is a Professor of Clinical Neurosciences, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Community Health Sciences at the University of Calgary and program lead for the Tourette and Pediatric Movement Disorder Program at Alberta Children’s Hospital. Dr. Pringsheim gives a brief overview of Tourette syndrome before examining the film’s depiction of severe tics, the sudden onset of symptoms, and commonly misunderstood features such as coprolalia (involuntary swearing), spitting, and hitting. She then discusses tic suppression, medication and the risks of advising someone to stop treatment without appropriate medical assessment, and the apparent “miracle cure” device featured at the end of the movie. Asif and Ali then ask Dr. Pringsheim about how the film has been received by clinicians and the Tourette community, the controversy surrounding the BAFTA awards, and whether ‘I Swear’ , along with the increasing visibility of tics on social media, has helped improve public understanding of Tourette syndrome. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianShow Notes:https://moviesnstuff.com/John's Not Mad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxfJDpd3XcYHow ‘I Swear’ star Robert Aramayo prepared to play Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson: “It’s impossible to copy John’s tics”: https://www.screendaily.com/interviews/how-i-swear-star-robert-aramayo-prepared-to-play-tourettes-campaigner-john-davidson-its-impossible-to-copy-johns-tics/5212033.articleThe True Story Behind I Swear and John Davidson's Journey with Tourette's: https://time.com/article/2026/04/21/i-swear-true-story-john-davidson/Robert Aramayo Wins the Leading Actor BAFTA for I Swear | EE BAFTA Film Awards 2026: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgRm0ZaDiJg

NOTE: This episode contains explicit language and discussions of sexual abuse and self-harm Today,  Ali and Asif are joined by comedian and longtime podcast host Paul Gilmartin, former co-host of TBS’s Dinner and a Movie, stand-up comedian, and creator and host of The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast. Paul talks about his journey into comedy and why so many comedians seem to have a complicated relationship with pain, vulnerability, and humor. We explore how The Mental Illness Happy Hour began, what he has learned from listening to thousands of people share their most personal experiences, and why simply feeling heard and understood can be so powerful—even when there is no advice, quick fix, or magic pill offered. We also discuss why people may reveal their deepest struggles to a stranger before turning to a spouse, family member, or doctor, and what comedians and physicians might each misunderstand about mental illness.The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions.Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from PixabayContact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.comFollow us on Social media:Twitter: @doctorvcomedianShow Notes:The Mental Illness Happy Hour: https://mentalpod.com/