Shows
Parenting is a JokeAnnabelle Gurwitch is Just Trying to Eat, Pray, Live StoryOn this episode of Parenting Is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg talks with writer, performer, and memoirist Annabelle Gurwitch about parenting an adult child while still actively shaping a creative life that refuses to behave. Gurwitch reflects on writing The End of My Life Is Killing Me while navigating stage-four lung cancer treatment, explaining why she frames the book as a “second life” rather than a comeback story, and why she deliberately avoids language like resilience and mindfulness after watching those words get hollowed out by marketing. The conversation moves between parenting, storytelling, and art with surgical specificity: Gurwitch recounts nego...
2026-02-1742 min
Parenting is a JokeJennifer Wai Connects Reiki, Fortnite, and Staying Close to Your KidIn this New Year’s episode of Parenting Is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg talks with mystic, Reiki practitioner, and parent Jennifer Wai about raising kids while trusting intuition in a culture obsessed with rules, experts, and productivity. Jennifer explains what it actually means to be a mystic—describing herself as a human antenna fine-tuning static—and traces that sensitivity back to a childhood marked by literal thinking, bullying, and parents who didn’t quite know what to do with a kid who felt everything. They compare notes on parenting highly perceptive children, including how Jennifer’s early ability to anticipate...
2026-01-0642 min
Parenting is a JokeCarole Montgomery Raises A Kid In A Green RoomComedian Carole Montgomery joins Parenting Is a Joke to talk with Ophira Eisenberg about raising a kid while building a stand-up career that never paused, even when everyone told her it should. Carole traces her path from starting comedy at 21 in male-dominated Brooklyn clubs to touring relentlessly as a new mom, pumping breast milk backstage and leaving her six-month-old with a six-foot-five tattooed bouncer who didn’t know how to remove a baby from a car seat. She reflects on the blunt warning from a manager who said pregnancy would ruin her career—followed almost immediately by a Showtime tapi...
2025-12-3046 min
Parenting is a JokeYes Day with Tweens: A Sticker Chart Success Story with Katy StrangeIn this Snack episode, Ophira catches up with author and storyteller Katy Strange, who talks about the very specific chaos of raising two tweens while publishing her debut novel The Manly Man of God. Katy explains how her book’s bold, saint-like cover—complete with a mysteriously floating eggplant—has sparked confusion among some readers, including a man at her book launch who sincerely asked if the story involved a farmers’ market subplot. She and Ophira dig into the megachurch culture that inspired the book, including the time a stranger on a Vancouver bus tried to flirt with Katy only to...
2025-12-0226 min
Parenting is a JokeKaty Strange is Raising and ExistentialistIn this episode, Ophira talks with author and storyteller Katy (Katharine) Strange about the tangled realities of raising tweens while untangling a past shaped by evangelical culture. Katy shares how moving 17 times as a kid primed her for reading a room—and for assuming friendships were optional until she realized she wasn’t relocating again. She talks about letting her 13-year-old navigate Seattle’s public transit with “mixed results,” including surprise solo detours through the city, and about trying to teach her kids religion only to have her son declare he’s an existentialist who’d rather stay home and play Halo...
2025-11-2550 min
Parenting is a JokeKerri Maher Hunts for Books Teens Will Actually Read VoluntarilyIn this episode, Ophira Eisenberg talks with author and parent coach Kerri Maher (aka. Kerri Smith–Maher and also Kerri Majors) about the many names she has published under, the publishing-industry lunch where her team rejected both “Smith” and “Pasqualetti” for SEO reasons, and why she ultimately adopted her grandmother’s maiden name as her pen name. Kerri recalls handwriting her first unfinished novel on her dad’s yellow legal pads—an early story about a girl and her blind best friend—before sharing how childhood surgeries and months of immobility pushed her toward reading The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe a...
2025-11-1849 min
Parenting is a JokeFrom Travel Editor to Scary Mommy with Kate AulettaIn this Parenting Is a Joke snack episode, Ophira Eisenberg chats again with Kate Auletta, Editor-in-Chief of Scary Mommy and Romper, about her years as a journalist and the surprising turns that led her from travel writing to parenting media. Kate recalls running HuffPost’s “How to Raise a Kid” conference in 2017—pulling together experts to talk about money, race, sex, and digital literacy right as the Trump era began—and how it felt like a bright moment of optimism and connection before online discourse hardened. She and Ophira laugh about trolls who argue over sunscreen recipes and how parenting...
2025-11-0623 min
Parenting is a JokeBrooke MacKenzie Knows The Horrors of ParentingIn this Halloween-timed episode, Ophira Eisenberg talks with Brooklyn-based horror author and poet Brooke Mackenzie, who balances writing ghost stories with parenting her five-year-old daughter. Brooke describes her haunted Minnesota childhood home—once owned by a member of the Pillsbury family—complete with a female ghost in the basement and a handsy spirit in an old pony shed. She recounts asking “the powers that be” in college to take away her ability to see ghosts after too many eerie encounters at Sarah Lawrence. Ophira and Brooke trade jokes about “geriatric motherhood,” with Brooke explaining how she had her daughter at 40 after...
2025-10-2844 min
Parenting is a JokeJordan Klepper is an Emmy-Award Winning DadDaily Show correspondent Jordan Klepper joins Ophira Eisenberg to talk about raising his two-and-a-half-year-old son, Witt, while juggling a career built on improv, political satire, and late-night comedy. Klepper recalls misjudging the mattress size for his son’s bunk bed—leaving a four-inch gap that could double as future deposition material—and justifying his “safety plan” with a beanbag chair under the danger zone. He rails against the whiplash speed of kids’ TV, admitting Bluey gets a pass while Gabby’s Dollhouse and Cocomelon make him wince, then describes how YouTube ballet performances and Singin’ in the Rain became his family’s slo...
2025-10-2136 min
Parenting is a JokeOne Kid is The Right Number with Tony DeyoIn this snack episode, comedian Tony Deyo regales Ophira Eisenberg with some of the strangest leaps he’s taken, from auditioning disastrously for Stomp—where his lack of dance skills left him drumming on himself in front of professional dancers—to jumping out of airplanes during Army ROTC, even though the first time he’d ever flown was on the way to jump school. Now a parent, he admits that those risks have given way to new kinds of adventures, like being pressured by his son into riding a 140-foot drop water slide that ripped his swim trunks. Tony talks ab...
2025-10-1627 min
Parenting is a JokeTony Deyo Wants to Bang A Drum All DayComedian Tony Deyo joins Ophira Eisenberg this week to talk about balancing creative work with family life, starting with his strict morning writing routine that often happens next to his son playing video games. He describes raising his now-11-year-old, the youngest in his class, and reflects on being the youngest in school himself. Tony shares the story of meeting his wife in college marching band — he was a drummer, she played clarinet — and riffs on the personalities of every instrument section, from flighty flutists to arrogant trumpeters. He recalls teaching band in Texas, where even tiny towns had mill...
2025-10-1452 min
Parenting is a JokeParenting as Jazz Improv with John MoeIn this snack episode, John Moe—host of Depresh Mode and Sleeping with Celebrities—shares memories with Ophira Eisenberg of sneaking into R-rated movies as a kid, including the terrifying but oddly comical Alien chest-burster scene that was softened by nearby jokesters comparing it to a hot dog with ketchup. He recalls being deeply shaken by The Exorcist and a low-budget Bigfoot “documentary,” which hit especially hard growing up in the Pacific Northwest. Moe also talks about the movies he’s passed down to his kids—Back to the Future, The Blues Brothers, Smokey and the Bandit, and Star Wars—while r...
2025-10-0920 min
Parenting is a JokeJohn Moe Declares It's A 3 Kid Minimum in MinnesotaIn this episode of Parenting Is a Joke, John Moe talks to Ophira Eisenberg about raising three kids while juggling multiple jobs in public radio, writing, and podcasting. He recalls his parents’ Norwegian roots, including summers spent above the Arctic Circle and the bone-dry humor of his father, whose jokes sometimes landed days later. Comedy became the family’s shared language, even as emotional expression was stifled at home, and Moe admits he often repeats phrases from his parents—like telling his kids to “snap out of it”—despite his professional focus on mental health. He describes how having a third chil...
2025-10-0745 min
Parenting is a JokeRachel Dratch’s Psychic Predicted Her ChildRachel Dratch joins Ophira Eisenberg to talk about raising her 13-year-old son Eli, reflecting on how his confident, social personality contrasts with her own bookish teen years. She recalls once assuming she wouldn’t have children, only to be surprised when a channeler predicted she’d meet someone and have one child—a prophecy that eerily came true when she met Eli’s father months later and became pregnant at 44. Rachel discusses the challenges of managing screen time, joking about how her hierarchy of goals slid from “read a book” to “at least watch TV instead of TikTok shorts.” She shares how E...
2025-10-0241 min
Parenting is a JokeJordan Carlos is in The Simon & Garfunkel Phase of ParentingComedian Jordan Carlos joins Ophira Eisenberg to talk about parenting two kids with very different personalities—his 10-year-old daughter, a perfectionist baker supplied with Costco-sized vanilla extract, and his six-year-old son, who polices Halloween candy wrappers with post-it notes. Jordan shares how his daughter’s three grandmothers got her hooked on baking, and how his son’s sharp eye caught him sneaking Whoppers late at night. The conversation moves into the emotional leap from age eight to ten, the Simon & Garfunkel “Hello Darkness” phase, and balancing attention between siblings. Jordan also compares Black and White Thanksgivings—Dallas versus New Hampshire—wh...
2025-09-3043 min
Parenting is a JokeThe Smallest Hecklers with Danny RickerOn this Parenting is a Joke snack episode, head-writer of Jimmy Kimmel Live! Danny Ricker joins Ophira Eisenberg to talk about how his work and family worlds overlap in unpredictable ways. He shares how writing jokes for Kimmel during the pandemic meant working from his garage while his kids crashed Zoom meetings, and why pitching jokes with a toddler tugging on his sleeve changed the whole dynamic of the room. Danny recalls how his children’s blunt feedback sometimes lands harder than a network note, and how bedtime stories often turn into test runs for monologue material. He describes the...
2025-09-2526 min
Parenting is a JokeDanny Ricker is Living One Lego a DayIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg talks with Danny Ricker, head writer of Jimmy Kimmel Live and author of Wow, You Look Terrible: How to Parent Less and Live More. Ricker shares how the book’s title came from the daily mirror shock of his early parenting years, when exhaustion rewired him permanently into a 5:30 a.m. riser. He describes raising two kids—an 11-year-old daughter who now bonds with him over The Simpsons and an eight-year-old son who still delights in simple joys like rocks—while recalling how his wife and he started dating at 15...
2025-09-2351 min
Parenting is a JokeAndrea Marie is Loving Her Empty NestIn this Parenting is a Joke episode, comedian Andrea Marie talks about founding the Moms Unhinged Comedy Tour after becoming an empty nester and realizing she finally had the freedom to hit the road. She shares with host Ophira Eisenberg how her unconventional upbringing with a prank-loving mom who once greeted boyfriends in a gorilla costume—and even trained as an Italian-style clown—shaped her sense of humor. Andrea describes her first career as a Facebook marketing expert and author before pivoting into stand-up, where her earliest jokes came from midlife crises and parenting fails rather than ad campaigns. She...
2025-09-1648 min
Parenting is a JokeParent Math with Domenica RutaIn this Parenting Is a Joke snack episode, Ophira Eisenberg talks with bestselling author Domenica Ruta about the messy, improvised reality of writing and parenting while raising kids. Domenica describes how her creative process has nothing to do with 4 a.m. routines—rejecting Glennon Doyle’s approach with a “bitch, please” and instead likening her schedule to a Jackson Pollock painting made of poop. She recalls pounding out an “ugly” first draft while pregnant, then facing the absurd parent math of paying more for childcare than she earned from freelancing. The two trade stories about breast pumps that seemed to chant ins...
2025-09-1127 min
Parenting is a JokeBest-Selling Author Domenica Ruta Still Laughs at the Hard PartsBestselling author Domenica Ruta joins Ophira Eisenberg on this episode to talk about her new book All The Mothers, and about the family dynamics that shaped her memoir With or Without You, including her relationship with her strong-willed, drug-dealing mother and her complicated bond with her father. She explains how turning those memories into a book forced her to confront the contradictions of love, resentment, and survival, and why she believes humor is sometimes the only way to tell the truth about painful experiences. Domenica and Ophira also discuss generational differences in parenting styles, from guilt and rage bubbling...
2025-09-0949 min
Parenting is a JokeGetting Slapped with Baloney with The GaytriarchsIn this snack-sized follow-up, Ophira Eisenberg leads rapid-fire parenting confessions with Gaytriarchs podcast hosts David FM Vaughn and Gavin Lodge. David admits the last thing he said “no” to was sending an iPad to camp—earning him a daily pout and a stompy “I don’t even like this house anyway.” Gavin, meanwhile, cops to banning extra TikTok time, while also offering his trademark “just you wait” warnings to David’s younger-dad optimism. The trio skewer “gentle parenting” as equal parts guilt trip and impossibility, swap stories of murderous rage over mis-put-on shoes, and debate whether edibles really improve playtime. Both dads co...
2025-09-0422 min
Parenting is a JokeDavid and Gavin of The Gaytriarchs Went From Broadway Lights to Baby MonitorsIn this kickoff to Season 4, Ophira Eisenberg is joined by Broadway veterans turned podcasters David FM Vaughn and Gavin Lodge, hosts of The Gaytriarchs. The dads share how their show began almost as a “you’re a gay dad, I’m a gay dad, let’s talk” experiment, and how it’s evolved into 113 episodes, complete with recurring jokes like referring to their audience as “our listener.” They talk about the strange intimacy of podcasting, meeting each other’s kids for the first time only after years of recording together, and the moments that nearly made them quit—until a fan’s oddly specif...
2025-09-0246 min
Parenting is a JokeEmily Oster Breaks Down the Myth of the “Right Way” to ParentIn this rerun episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with economist, bestselling author, and parenting data sage Emily Oster for a conversation filled with surprising truths, hard-earned wisdom, and the kind of advice that actually helps. Emily shares how she applied her data-driven brain to everything from optimal sleep schedules to discipline strategies, allowance systems, and even pet ownership (her kids gave a PowerPoint presentation that ultimately landed them with pet snails). They talk bedtime math, caffeinated tea mishaps, and whether butthole is really a bad word. Emily explains why parents should embrace "pleasure data"—wh...
2025-08-2647 min
Parenting is a JokeLaura Benanti Is Not Asking for Permission, ThanksIn this special rerun of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg welcomes the multitalented Tony Award-winning star Laura Benanti for a conversation that’s both unforgettable and fiercely real. Laura opens up about the high-wire act of being a working performer and a parent, sharing stories from her early Broadway debut at 18 to the surprising joys of suburban life in New Jersey. She talks about negotiating equity in her marriage, resisting outdated gender expectations, and the invisible labor of motherhood—even when you're the family breadwinner. Laura also shares her experience with postpartum depression and multiple miscarriages, including a deep...
2025-08-1938 min
Parenting is a JokeWhy Dating Dads Is the New Hot with Erin KeatingIn this snack-sized episode, Ophira Eisenberg reconnects with Erin Keating, host of Hotter Than Ever, for a raw, funny, and wildly relatable look at how a hospital stay during the pandemic catalyzed a total life reinvention. After being hospitalized with COVID pneumonia, Erin had what she describes as a Canyon Ranch-level spa break—complete with flowers from work, no interruptions, and the radical realization that she was deeply unhappy. Within a year, she turned 50, ended her long marriage, got laid off, and found herself with a clean slate—and a hot French guy in Italy. Erin shares how she ease...
2025-08-1225 min
Parenting is a JokeErin Keating is Constantly Buying Footballs and ShoesIn this episode, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with her longtime friend Erin Keating—former television executive, mom of teenage twins, and host of the podcast Hotter Than Ever—for a conversation that spans from IVF dolphin omens to teen fashion battles. Erin shares how a gamified approach to online dating led to meeting her now ex-husband (he was date #5 out of a planned 10), and how her determination during fertility treatments turned her into what she calls a “warrior” with a 4-a-week Upper East Side IUI commute. The IVF worked, and during a Cape May trip, she and her then-husband spotted...
2025-08-0541 min
Parenting is a JokeRachael Price Sings The Wheels on the Tourbus Go Round and RoundIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg talks with powerhouse vocalist and soon-to-be mom Rachael Price—lead singer of Lake Street Dive—about performing while pregnant, planning a tour around a due date, and preparing to raise a baby on the road. Rachael shares what it was like touring with the band into her third trimester, including maternity Spanx, food poisoning that almost led to a canceled show, and the unexpected wave of emotion before her final pre-baby concert. She opens up about the confusing abyss of Instagram parenting “advice,” why her cloth diaper ambitions may be short...
2025-07-2935 min
Parenting is a JokeNine-Year-Olds are Friendly Exterestials with Chris DuffyIn this snack-sized episode, Ophira Eisenberg reconnects with comedian, author, and How to Be a Better Human podcast host Chris Duffy for a rapid-fire chat covering the unexpected overlaps between parenting and comedy. Chris reflects on his years as a fifth-grade teacher, including a moment when a student earnestly asked—in front of the class—if having “huge balls” was a medical concern. The two swap stories about bedtime existentialism, the silent pressure of sleep training success, and the social minefields of modern parenting advice (including unsolicited high-fives from strangers about home births). Chris shares why he’s terrified his kid mi...
2025-07-2424 min
Parenting is a JokeChris Duffy is a Large Baby With a BeardIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedian, writer, and podcast host Chris Duffy to unpack the joys and absurdities of raising a toddler while maintaining a creative career. Chris shares how his “fun mom energy” has defined him since high school, his past life as a babysitter and fifth-grade teacher, and the surreal experience of writing jokes for Dan Rather during his first TV writing job. He reflects on the lack of nuanced parenting books for dads and explains why most advice boils down to: “Are you willing to let the baby c...
2025-07-2252 min
Parenting is a JokeWriting Novels on the Toilet (Literally) with Jo PiazzaIn this snack-sized episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg is joined once again by author and podcast host Jo Piazza for a conversation that hits on the real logistics of being a working parent with no time for “manifesting” or gentle parenting platitudes. Jo explains how her background as a tabloid journalist trained her to write anywhere—including from the toilet while hiding from her kids—and how that skill helped her crank out her latest novel, Everyone Is Lying to You, in just three months. They talk about what it actually takes to get creative work done whi...
2025-07-1728 min
Parenting is a JokeJo Piazza Knows Everyone is Lying to YouOn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg talks with bestselling author and Under the Influence podcast host Jo Piazza about parenting three young kids while juggling a prolific writing career. Jo shares the moment she realized she was pregnant (it involved an Elton John concert and tequila), why she can’t stand chickens, and how her latest thriller Everyone Is Lying to You takes aim at the surreal and insidious world of mom influencers. She opens up about trying to become an influencer herself—complete with a hired photographer, reluctant kids, and affiliate links for water shoe...
2025-07-1548 min
Parenting is a JokeThe Doula Is My Favorite Roommate with Vicky KupermanIn this snack-size episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg checks back in with comedian and new mom Vicky Kuperman for a hilarious and refreshingly real follow-up conversation about those chaotic first weeks of parenting. Vicky shares how hiring a night doula gave her an elusive eight-hour stretch of sleep and why postnatal support might be the difference between loving your baby and loving having a baby. They swap notes on useless pediatrician advice, cry-trigger guesswork, and the loneliness of baby groups when no one gets your sense of humor. Vicky opens up about the mental fog of...
2025-07-1026 min
Parenting is a JokeJennifer Rawlings Parents 5 Kids and Performs in War-ZonesIn this summer edition of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg catches up with stand-up comic, filmmaker, and war-zone performer Jennifer Rawlings. Jennifer reflects on her years raising five kids while performing for U.S. troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Sarajevo—often leaving behind toddlers and pull-ups for flak vests and flatbed stages. She shares how her youngest son, now a film professional, co-directed her new special I Only Smoke in War Zones, which captures her real-life experiences performing comedy amid explosions, basketball-court gigs with no mics, and chow-hall sets surrounded by barbed wire. Ophira and Jennifer get real ab...
2025-07-0847 min
Parenting is a JokeRaising a Feminist Boy with The Daily Show’s Desi LydicIn this in-studio Parenting is a Joke fav episode, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedian, Daily Show correspondent, and guest host Desi Lydic to talk parenting, performing, and prompter disasters. Desi recounts the surreal moment her Daily Show hosting debut began with a backwards teleprompter—and how the audience's reaction helped her recover instantly. They talk about raising thoughtful boys in today's world, from navigating gender norms and emotional literacy to Desi’s personal favorite parenting guru (spoiler: it's Dr. Becky). Desi opens up about auditioning for The Daily Show while four months pregnant and the support she received from...
2025-07-0149 min
Parenting is a JokeMicrodosing, Menopause, and the Magic of Mushrooms with Tracey TeeIn this snack-sized episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg is joined again by Tracey Tee—comedian turned founder of Moms on Mushrooms (M.O.M.)—to talk about how microdosing psilocybin became the unexpected tool that helped her feel more present, emotionally resilient, and aligned as a parent. Tracey explains how her past work creating The Pump and Dump Show laid the groundwork for building a mushroom-centered community for moms looking for healing, connection, and alternatives to antidepressants. They discuss the myths around microdosing, the stigma of moms on psychedelics, and why Tracey compares it to a cup...
2025-06-2621 min
Parenting is a JokeMoms on Mushrooms: How Tracey Tee Found Relief and a CallingComedian Tracey Tee, co-creator of the hit touring show The Pump and Dump, returns with a whole new mission: helping moms heal with mushrooms. In this episode of Parenting is a Joke, she opens up to Ophira Eisenberg about how her decade-long comedy career and business collapsed overnight during the pandemic, leaving her physically and emotionally unmoored. She shares the long and grueling road she traveled through infertility, stage 4 endometriosis, surgical menopause at 41, and the grief of saying goodbye to her uterus before she ever really got to celebrate becoming a mother. It was only after a traumatic car...
2025-06-2456 min
Parenting is a JokeTummy Time and The Tonight Show with Liz GlazerIn this special snack episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg reconnects with comedian Liz Glazer to celebrate the release of Liz’s new stand-up special Do You Know Who I’m Not?—a follow-up to her acclaimed debut tackling the heartbreak of stillbirth. Liz shares what it’s like raising a two-year-old, obsessively documenting milestones like her daughter renaming bottles “babush,” and navigating the guilt and chaos of being a working comic mom. They unpack the newborn stage's anxiety—highlighting the absurd pressure of tummy time—and how Liz handles the grind of travel, not for adventure but to maximize...
2025-06-1938 min
Parenting is a JokeKid Jokes for the Kidless with Mike CannonIn this snack episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg catches up with comedian and dad Mike Cannon, who's juggling life with a kindergartener and a new baby. Mike talks honestly about how parenting the second time around comes with fewer toys, more perspective, and the realization that kids’ interests change faster than you can declutter. He recounts the chaotic beauty of raising a son who alphabetizes his dinosaurs, breaks toys within minutes, and treasures a lion stuffy so much that it once sparked a Medieval Times rescue mission. Mike shares the emotional toll of not finding a th...
2025-06-1228 min
Parenting is a JokeMike Cannon’s Fatherhood Survival Kit Includes Empathy and EdiblesThis week on Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg welcomes comedian Mike Cannon for a Father’s Day–timed conversation packed with raw insight, humor, and real talk about parenting sensitive kids while holding onto your sanity and creative drive. Mike opens up about life with a kindergartner and a seven-month-old, reflecting on how jujitsu helped his son build emotional resilience—and how parenting has forced him to confront his own childhood trauma, OCD, and anger. The two comedians swap stories about navigating vulnerability, shifting identities post-kids, and finding joy (and a little stability) in edibles. Mike also unpacks the in...
2025-06-1044 min
Parenting is a JokeCollege Kids Who Refuse to Party with Deborah GoldsteinIn this quick-hit snack episode, Parenting is a Joke host Ophira Eisenberg reconnects with Deborah Goldstein, creator and host of the kids’ podcast The Big Fib, for a sharp and funny follow-up conversation about parenting, lying, and letting go. Deborah shares her experience raising two sons through the awkward "dumb liar" phase—like when one claimed he “found” a cow magnet stuck to a stranger’s car—and reflects on how surprisingly uptight her kids turned out despite her own rebellious youth. She and Ophira bond over the absurdity of structured parenting philosophies and the pressure to sign kids up for every...
2025-06-0523 min
Parenting is a JokeDeborah Goldstein Has a Viable WombIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg welcomes Deborah Goldstein, co-host of the hit kids' podcast The Big Fib and producer of the nationwide storytelling series Listen to Your Mother. Deborah shares what it’s like raising two "man children" with her wife in a North Jersey suburb full of fellow Brooklyn expats, where being a cis, lesbian, monogamous couple is almost boring by local standards. The conversation spans everything from the surprising struggles of parenting highly responsible college kids (who could maybe stand to experiment a little) to the challenges of growing up with parents wh...
2025-06-0346 min
Parenting is a JokeSnot Goblins with Rob KutnerIn this snack-sized episode of Parenting Is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg chats with comedy writer Rob Kutner about parenting teens, creative careers, and why his daughter called him and his wife “hippies.” Rob opens up about raising a 16-year-old navigating academic pressure, social anxiety, and her first heartbreak—with plenty of Gilmore Girls marathons to get through it. He shares how his 12-year-old son, who’s gearing up for his bar mitzvah, is increasingly independent (and stubborn about button-down shirts), giving Rob more time to write everything from graphic novels (Snot Goblins) to animated series (God's Gang). The two discuss...
2025-05-2923 min
Parenting is a JokeRob Kutner Celebrates 5,000 Years and His Tween's Bar MitzvahIn this episode of Parenting Is a Joke, comedian and late-night writer Rob Kutner (The Daily Show, Conan, The Tonight Show) joins Ophira Eisenberg to talk parenting while producing comedy—and building epic Lego cities. Rob shares how his son’s rediscovered passion for Lego led to an IKEA-based organizing hack courtesy of his wife, complete with color-coded bins and DIY design books. He reflects on raising a sophisticated 12-year-old boy with a penchant for Frank Sinatra and Pokemon, and preparing for his upcoming bar mitzvah. Rob also opens up about balancing parenting with his writing career, including the unex...
2025-05-2745 min
Parenting is a JokeUnexpected Potty Training with Janae BurrisIn this snack-sized episode, Denver comic Janae Burris returns to talk to Ophira about parenting logistics, chaos management, and the sticker shock of daycare in Colorado. She opens up about choosing to keep her toddler home with her—despite everyone around her insisting she needs a break—and how that decision slowly unraveled once the “fast and sticky” two-year-old phase kicked in. Janae shares the sticker price of a Montessori tour that nearly sent her packing, the unexpected benefits (and side-eye) of sending her son to visit family in California, and how her toddler came back from Grandma’s with new c...
2025-05-2223 min
Parenting is a JokeJanae Burris is the Funniest Mom in FresnoIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, comedian and Denver arts staple Janae Burris joins Ophira Eisenberg to talk about becoming a mom at 41 after thinking parenthood had passed her by. She recounts the surreal moment she realized she was pregnant—just after performing at a comedy show—and how fear and humor carried her through a high-risk pregnancy. Janae reflects on her path from dropping out of high school to earning an avant-garde theater degree and eventually finding a creative home in Denver, where she juggles stand-up, plays, and teaching. She opens up about shifting professional priorities, brin...
2025-05-2048 min
Parenting is a JokeGetting Roasted by Your Teenage with Amy MillanIn this Parenting is a Joke Snack Episode, singer-songwriter Amy Millan shares hilarious and heartfelt stories about parenting a 14-year-old aspiring musical theater star and an 8-year-old who’s always one snack away from bedtime stalling. Amy reveals that her daughter's only use for a smartphone is belting out songs for hours, but that didn’t stop the teen from hitting her with a brutal “You didn’t live your dreams” when Amy suggested she write and direct. Amy opens up about her own creative childhood, including the ballet teacher who told her she “walked like an elephant,” and the Portuguese...
2025-05-1520 min
Parenting is a JokeSnot Goblins with Rob KutnerIn this snack-sized episode of Parenting Is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg chats with comedy writer Rob Kutner about parenting teens, creative careers, and why his daughter called him and his wife “hippies.” Rob opens up about raising a 16-year-old navigating academic pressure, social anxiety, and her first heartbreak—with plenty of Gilmore Girls marathons to get through it. He shares how his 12-year-old son, who’s gearing up for his bar mitzvah, is increasingly independent (and stubborn about button-down shirts), giving Rob more time to write everything from graphic novels (Snot Goblins) to animated series (God's Gang). The two discuss...
2025-05-1322 min
Parenting is a JokeAmy Millan Plays Blackjack For BathtimeIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, singer-songwriter Amy Millan of Stars and Broken Social Scene opens up about the wild logistics of parenting on the road, from breastfeeding backstage to taking her toddlers on European tour buses. Amy shares what it was like to return to the stage just 12 weeks postpartum, how a Canadian grant system once forced her to pretend her childcare provider was a photographer, and the creative lengths she’s gone to—like winning $150 at a casino—to get her daughter a clean bath. Amy reveals how she once had to pretend her childcare provid...
2025-05-1340 min
Parenting is a JokeFrom Isolation to Iced Coffee with Tara ClarkIn this snack-sized episode, Tara Clark of Modern Mom Probs returns to chat with Ophira Eisenberg about saying no (or more often, yes) to their kids, why the tween years might actually be the sweet spot of parenting, and how a learner-led school changed everything for her 12-year-old son. Tara opens up about resisting the urge to fast-forward conversations with her son—even when he's explaining every last Marvel Rivals stat—and the pressure moms feel to be constantly engaged. They also revisit the rise and fall of the "wine-in-a-sippy-cup" era of mom culture (good riddance), discuss whether microdosing is a...
2025-05-0821 min
Parenting is a JokeTara Clark Shifts From Mama to BroIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with parenting content creator, meme queen, and Modern Mom Probs founder Tara Clark for a dynamic, deeply relatable conversation about the evolution of modern motherhood. From Tara’s early days running Nickelodeon’s social media and literally being the voice of Dora the Explorer on Facebook, to launching a meme empire built on honest parenting humor, this episode traces the hilarious and frustrating truths of parenting in the digital age. Tara shares why she left NYC for the suburbs, how her son's preschool closure reshaped their live...
2025-05-0650 min
Parenting is a JokeJake Johannsen is Parenting With Heckler SkillsIn this heartfelt and funny episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with legendary stand-up comedian Jake Johannsen, whose record 45 appearances on Letterman only scratch the surface of his storytelling chops. Jake opens up about raising his daughter while balancing a touring career, how the pandemic and his wife's multiple myeloma diagnosis reshaped their family dynamic, and the surprising parenting wisdom he picked up from decades of dealing with hecklers. He shares raw moments about sleeping in a camper during his wife's treatment, the emotional challenges his daughter faced, and how humor became their lifeline. Jake...
2025-05-0134 min
Parenting is a JokeLive from PodJam: Parenting, Potty Training, and How to Talk to Kids About PoliticsRecorded live from PodJam in Henderson, Nevada, this special episode of Parenting is a Joke features Ophira Eisenberg hosting a lively panel of working moms—Desiree Goble, Rachel Spitz, Kim Nyborg, and Ty Vosslership—who bring real-world parenting tales from all corners of the U.S. They swap stories about managing chaotic departures to attend PodJam, mean girl drama in middle school, sleep training regrets, the challenges of potty training a stubborn toddler, and even the emotional rollercoaster of raising kids with anxiety and OCD. The panelists share how they talk to their children about current events, including one stan...
2025-04-2948 min
Parenting is a JokeDavid Cross and Amber Tamblyn Are Raising a Daughter with Art and Granola BarsIn this special return episode, David Cross and Amber Tamblyn join Ophira Eisenberg for a lively conversation about their creative household, balancing big careers with raising their daughter, and the unexpected side effects of school lunch anxiety. David talks about his hands-on parenting style and the limits of “gentle parenting” when a 4-year-old starts giving ultimatums, while Amber shares the surreal moment of explaining her teenage friendship with Hillary Clinton to their daughter. They open up about their collaborative dynamic, what it's like having a kid with two artists as parents, and the occasional need to pretend a granola bar...
2025-04-2441 min
Parenting is a JokeRobby Slowik and his Foul SeedComedian and writer Robby Slowik joins the show to talk about balancing stand-up with parenting, as he and his wife, comedian Casey Balsham, prepare for baby number two. Robby shares how he went from being ambivalent about having kids to navigating the chaos of IVF, all while working unpredictable gigs and writing for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. He recalls the moment a fertility doctor ruthlessly critiqued his sperm under a microscope and how their first IVF attempt involved "an amount of drugs that would kill most barn animals." He and Ophira bond over the unique struggles of...
2025-04-0843 min
Parenting is a JokeSecond Baby, Same Credit Card with Casey BalshamIn this Parenting is a Joke snack episode, comedian and podcaster Casey Balsham returns to talk about expecting baby number two and the major parenting shifts she’s making this time around. She shares why she’s skipping breastfeeding after 14 months of postpartum rage, how her toddler still treats her chest like a pacifier, and why people keep assuming this pregnancy happened “naturally” despite another round of IVF. Casey and Ophira swap notes on the challenges of playing with toddlers, the struggle to keep toys organized, and the frustration of unsolicited parenting advice. Plus, they discuss co-sleeping chaos, the mental g...
2025-04-0326 min
Parenting is a JokeCasey Belsham Spent 100K On Her BabiesComedian Casey Balsham joins Parenting is a Joke to talk about balancing stand-up, parenting, and a pregnancy that’s been anything but easy. She shares her IVF experience, including the financial and emotional rollercoaster of spending nearly $100,000 to grow her family. Casey also reveals how she found out she was pregnant while performing her one-woman show about infertility at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She and Ophira discuss performing as moms, the struggle of finding childcare while chasing comedy gigs, and why she and her comic husband are bringing their toddler along for international shows. Casey opens up about the ex...
2025-04-0149 min
Parenting is a JokeSharing Custody Means More Time! with Christa MeolaComedian and photographer Christa Meola joins this snack-sized episode to share how a New York City leasing agent played matchmaker, setting her up with fellow comic Costaki Economopoulos, whom she later married—and then divorced. She talks about the unexpected perks of single parenting, how co-parenting shifts the mental load, and why her daughter’s obsession with her magician boyfriend is making her nervous. Christa also opens up about their post-divorce comedy tour, The Divorce Show, and how the audience Q&A proved some people completely missed the point. Plus, she and Ophira swap war stories about parenting through endl...
2025-03-2533 min
Parenting is a JokeChrista Meola Confims: The Perfect Family Photo Never HappensComedian, actress, and world-renowned photographer Christa Meola joins the podcast to talk about the chaos and comedy of co-parenting with another stand-up comic. She shares how she balances late-night sets with raising her six-year-old daughter, Zoe, while running her own photography business. Christa dives into her unexpected journey to motherhood, from being on the fence about having kids to navigating fertility struggles and finally embracing parenthood. She and Ophira swap stories about the challenges of family photography—whether behind or in front of the camera—and the pressures moms face to capture the "perfect" family moment. Plus, Christa reveals her...
2025-03-1852 min
Parenting is a JokeHow a $500 Gift Changed Everything with Dave NealIn this snack-sized episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedian and YouTube creator Dave Neal to talk about balancing fatherhood with content creation, childhood influences, and the struggle of managing screen time for kids. Dave opens up about his mother’s journey as a single parent, how a family friend’s generosity shaped his identity, and what it was like gaining a stepfather at age 12. He also shares his personal battle with sugar addiction, the lessons he’s learned from his childhood, and how they inform his approach to parenting today.Ophira...
2025-03-0624 min
Parenting is a JokeDave Neal is Keeping it AliveIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedian, YouTuber, and new dad Dave Neal to talk about the chaos of raising a newborn while managing a thriving comedy and podcasting career. Dave shares what it’s like producing The Rush Hour Podcast twice a day while navigating sleep deprivation, diaper blowouts, and his wife’s surprising decision to enter their baby in a beauty pageant—where he walked away as a state champion.The conversation delves into Dave’s unconventional childhood, growing up with a single mom who left his birth fa...
2025-03-0450 min
Parenting is a JokeSharing Custody Means More Time! with Christa MeolaComedian and photographer Christa Meola joins this snack-sized episode to share how a New York City leasing agent played matchmaker, setting her up with fellow comic Costaki Economopoulos, whom she later married—and then divorced. She talks about the unexpected perks of single parenting, how co-parenting shifts the mental load, and why her daughter’s obsession with her magician boyfriend is making her nervous. Christa also opens up about their post-divorce comedy tour, The Divorce Show, and how the audience Q&A proved some people completely missed the point. Plus, she and Ophira swap war stories about parenting through endl...
2025-03-0432 min
Parenting is a JokeStaying Healthy After Going Going Viral with Katie LoveIn this Parenting is a Joke snack-sized episode, Ophira Eisenberg shares a parenting moment that perfectly sums up the emotional unavailability of every guy she ever dated—courtesy of her son’s fart noises. Then, she sits down for a bite-sized chat with social media strategist Katie Love to discuss parenting in the digital age. Katie opens up about the decision to share (or not share) her children on social media, the unexpected backlash her daughter received after a viral Santa moment, and how she maintains boundaries in a career that never truly clocks out. Plus, Ophira and Katie comm...
2025-02-2727 min
Parenting is a JokeKatie Love Loves Being The BreadwinnerOn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with journalist-turned-entrepreneur Katie Love, founder of Love Social Media. Katie shares her journey from covering high-profile murder cases and presidential elections to building a successful social media agency that helps female founders stand out online. They dive into the challenges of balancing career ambitions with parenting, including Katie’s unique family dynamic—her husband is a stay-at-home dad. Together, they unpack societal expectations, gender biases, and people's surprising reactions to their roles, like the unsolicited praise Katie’s husband receives just for parenting or the judgmental commen...
2025-02-2548 min
Parenting is a JokeFrom Frozen Poles to TikTok Trolls with ABC Parenting's Arthur Meyer and Stephanie DrakeThis week on Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg serves up a delightful snack-sized episode featuring comedians Arthur Meyer and Stephanie Drake, creators of the Onion-style parody series ABC Parenting. From hilariously misguided advice to TikTok confusion, the trio explores the quirks of modern parenting and comedy. Stephanie shares the chaos of brainstorming topics for ABC Parenting—like deciphering the alphabet soup of preschool levels—and Arthur reflects on their attempts to mix parody and sincerity in an online world that’s often too literal.They dive into old-school parenting methods like soap-mouth threats and spanking, hilariously contra...
2025-02-2018 min
Parenting is a JokeMatt Goldich Gives Himself a B- in ParentingIn this Parenting is a Joke episode, Ophira Eisenberg revisits a fan-favorite conversation with comedian and long-time Late Night with Seth Meyers writer, Matt Goldich. Together, they dive into the hilarious chaos of balancing comedy careers, parenting two kids with wildly different personalities, and navigating the everyday absurdities of family life. Matt shares practical parenting advice, like why traveling with a baby is easier than you'd think, how he handles bedtime battles, and why he embraces being a "B-minus parent." Ophira recounts a funny exchange with her son about intelligence across life stages and reveals the comedic perks of...
2025-02-1821 min
Parenting is a JokeKnocking On Doors with Doug SmithIn this snack-sized episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg reconnects with comedian Doug Smith for a candid and comedic conversation about parenting, sobriety, and navigating life after leaving a strict Jehovah’s Witness upbringing. Doug opens up about his post-religion rebellious phase, his approach to parenting with fewer restrictions, and the lessons he’s learned while raising his spirited nine-year-old.They also discuss setting boundaries with kids, from screen time battles to endless dessert negotiations. Doug shares his journey to sobriety, reflecting on how it’s shaped his perspective as a father and comedian. Together, they l...
2025-02-1330 min
Parenting is a JokeDoug Smith’s Kid Thinks His Life is Just Coffee and NapsOn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedian and Brooklyn neighbor Doug Smith to explore the chaos, laughter, and deep reflections that come with parenting while managing a creative career. Doug shares tales of raising his fearless nine-year-old son, who loves nature—and a terrarium full of cockroaches to prove it. They discuss the challenges of nurturing a city kid who thrives in the wild and how Doug’s upbringing as a Jehovah’s Witness shaped his perspectives on parenting and comedy.The conversation takes a candid turn as Doug reveal...
2025-02-1153 min
Parenting is a JokeFrom the Algonquin Table to the Dinner Table with Cat GreenleafIn this snack-sized episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg reconnects with the talented Cat Greenleaf, former host of Talk Stoop and creator of the Soberness Podcast. They dive into Cat’s personal journey to sobriety and how it has influenced her parenting style and her broader perspective on life. Cat shares how losing her dream job led her to a period of healing by the ocean in Coney Island, where she rediscovered herself and even started a nonprofit to help others find restoration by the water.The conversation also explores the challenges and joys of...
2025-02-0625 min
Parenting is a JokeCat Greenleaf Moves from Talk Stoop to Sober TalkIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg welcomes the brilliant Cat Greenleaf. Cat is celebrated for her iconic celebrity interview series Talk Stoop and now hosts the compelling Soberness Podcast. Together, they talk about the complexities of parenting teenagers and sobriety. Cat opens up about adopting her two sons, navigating the unique challenges of raising teenagers, and balancing a media career while fostering meaningful connections with her kids.The conversation also explores her journey to sobriety, the transformative impact of the 12-step program, and the surprising ways her experiences shaped her parenting style...
2025-02-0453 min
Parenting is a JokeArthur Meyer and Stephanie Drake Mock the ABC’s of ParentingIn this episode, Ophira Eisenberg is joined by Arthur Meyer and Stephanie Drake, the creative forces behind the satirical web series "ABC Parenting." They share how their personal parenting journeys in New York City and Los Angeles inspired their series, which offers hilariously bad advice that every parent can laugh at (and ignore). They also talk about how the show skewers the contradictory and often ridiculous advice parents face, offering comedic relief to frazzled moms and dads.Together, they all discuss whether parenting was easier in the past and the pros and cons of raising kids in...
2025-01-2853 min
Parenting is a JokeSurviving Trails and Tantrums with Sally BrooksThis week on Parenting Is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg chats with the ever-hilarious Sally Brooks, comedian and author of Going to Maine: All the Ways to Fail on the Appalachian Trail. Sally opens up about her grueling five-month hike and how those endless blisters and unpredictable trail moments mirror her parenting journey. Sally Brooks and Ophira swap stories about the guilt trips only kids can deliver—like Sally’s son asking, “Are there ever going to be three people in this house again?” after she leaves for a show, and the absurd world of parenting cliches, like the timeless wisdom o...
2025-01-2323 min
Parenting is a JokeSally Brooks Conquers The Appalachian and ParenthoodThis week on Parenting Is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedian and author Sally Brooks to talk about her hilarious memoir, Going to Maine: All the Ways to Fail on the Appalachian Trail. Sally shares how her wild adventures as a road comic and five months of hiking the Appalachian Trail prepared her (kind of) for parenting. From blisters that wouldn’t heal to the surprise night she unknowingly conceived her child, Sally keeps it real with stories that are equal parts relatable and laugh-out-loud funny. They chat about parenting as an ever-changing trail, Skibbi Toilet toy ch...
2025-01-2150 min
Parenting is a JokeToo Much Stuff, Too Little Support with Biz LawerenceIn this follow-up snack episode, Biz Ellis, co-host of One Bad Mother, joins Ophira Eisenberg for another hilarious and honest conversation about the realities of parenting and life’s never-ending chaos. Biz opens up about wrapping up her 12-year podcast journey, navigating grief, and what she might tackle next as her kids grow older. Together, they unpack why parenting in America feels harder than ever, the cultural disdain for kids, and the impossible demands on parents in a system designed to fail them.They also talk about the joys of housecleaning—or gleefully ignoring it—while Ophira dreams...
2025-01-1626 min
Parenting is a JokeBiz Lawerence is Emotionally Forward with Her KidsThis week on Parenting Is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg welcomes podcast pioneer Biz Ellis from the wildly popular One Bad Mother show! Biz shares her strategies for raising emotionally forward kids, from letting them slam doors to giving them ice to smash against walls. Meanwhile, Ophira reflects on her own parenting moments, like offering her son the chance to scream it out in the car and navigating impulse control challenges. Together, they explore the long game of emotional growth and why creative outlets for frustration can work wonders.They also discuss the dynamics of raising teens and...
2025-01-1446 min
Parenting is a JokeBreaking Down Skibidi Toilets with Wendy & Lizzie MolyneauxIn this snack-sized episode, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedy writers Wendy and Lizzie Molyneux, the creative forces behind Bob’s Burgers and The Great North. The sisters open up about the controlled chaos of parenting large families while balancing successful careers in animation. Wendy, a mom of four, and Lizzie, a mom of three, discuss household rules that almost work, from no iPads during the week to family dinners free of devices.The conversation takes a hilarious turn into the absurdities of modern parenting, including the inexplicable popularity of Skibbity Toilet videos and how kids find th...
2025-01-0923 min
Parenting is a JokeWendy & Lizzie Molyneux Flip Bob’s Burgers and Traditional Gender RolesThis week, host Ophira Eisenberg is joined by Wendy and Lizzie Molyneux, the brilliant sister duo behind Bob’s Burgers and The Great North. The pair share their hilarious and heartfelt parenting journeys—Wendy as a mother of four and Lizzie with three kids spanning toddler to teen. They reflect on the joys and challenges of raising kids in Los Angeles while juggling a demanding career in television.From the realities of postpartum anxiety to negotiating with kids over Halloween costumes and talent shows, Wendy and Lizzie provide an honest look at life with big families. They also...
2025-01-0749 min
Parenting is a JokeAstrologer Ophira Edut Gives Cosmic Guidance for 2025Ophira Eisenberg kicks off the new year with returning guest Ophira Edut, one-half of the AstroTwins and a seasoned astrologer. Together, they reveal the cosmic trends shaping 2025 and what they mean for parents. From Capricorn’s 16-year Pluto transformation to the emerging influence of Aquarius, they explore how planetary shifts mirror societal changes, including new trends in parenting, relationships, and work-life balance.Listeners also get a sneak peek at The AstroTwins’ 2025 Almanac, which forecasts everything from workplace innovation to family dynamics. The episode touches on the challenges of navigating technology with kids, the rise of multi-generational housing, and...
2025-01-0244 min
Parenting is a JokeParenting Twins Through Guilt, Tours, and Answering Tough QuestionsParenting and comedy collide in this hilarious and heartfelt episode featuring UK comic Jen Brister. Known for her hit specials Waves and The Optimist and her book The Other Mother, Jen opens up about navigating life as a mom of twin boys while juggling a demanding comedy career. From her "put your shoes on" parenting anthem to the unique challenges of being a non-biological parent in a same-sex relationship, Jen’s candid insights are as thought-provoking as they are laugh-out-loud funny. Plus, she and Ophira dive into the societal expectations around motherhood, sharing the all-too-relatable frustrations of balancing it al...
2024-12-3143 min
Parenting is a JokeHoliday Horror Stories: From Puke to Pink Eye and BeyondIn this special holiday snack-sized episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg shares listener-submitted stories of holiday mishaps and parenting disasters. From festive puke-filled car rides to Lego-set mix-ups, a ravioli catastrophe that spanned three floors and the perils of trying to be a supermom post-C-section, these tales will make you laugh, cringe, and feel less alone in the season's chaos. Ophira also reflects on her own unforgettable holiday moments, like her Jewish Santa revelation and a particularly sticky Boxing Day involving remotes and red Gatorade. It’s a celebration of parenting during the most “wonderful” time of the ye...
2024-12-2626 min
Parenting is a JokeMargaret and Amy Laugh In The Face of Parenting ChaosOn this week’s episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg revisits a festive favorite featuring Margaret Ables and Amy Wilson, the comedic duo behind the hit podcast What Fresh Hell: Laughing in the Face of Motherhood. With six kids between them and years of experience making people laugh, Margaret and Amy open up about the chaos of raising children while building a thriving podcasting empire. They explore everything from evolving parenting styles—like the pitfalls of "boomer parenting" and the realities of "out-the-door parenting"—to why sometimes parenting feels like trying to keep a stubborn houseplant alive...
2024-12-2442 min
Parenting is a JokeThe Christmas I Pushed the Elf Off of The ShelfIn this lively, holiday-themed snack-sized episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg welcomes comedian and holiday advice-gatherer Emily Winter for a laugh-packed chat on surviving the festive season. From the chaos of cross-country travel to the psychological warfare of managing "Elf on the Shelf," this episode is full of relatable humor and practical insights. Hear crowd-sourced gems like why Santa shouldn’t get credit for the big gifts and why new parents should skip hosting altogether. Emily and Ophira also bond over the joy of practical, thoughtful presents—like cozy socks, pajamas, or even melatonin-laced edibles to unwi...
2024-12-1936 min
Parenting is a JokeMike Pesca Is Raising A Few Good MenIn this episode of Parenting as a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg welcomes Mike Pesca: journalist, host of podcasts The Gist and Funny You Should Mention, and father of two teenage boys. Mike demonstrates his hard-hitting journalism prowess in the episode, as he discusses sugar-fueled parenting, why Ophira almost choked on a grape, and letting your kid give a PowerPoint presentation to earn subway privileges. The conversation meanders from the evolution of entertainment, to media’s influence on teenage engagement, to comedy’s role in helping to navigate global issues to navigating ADHD, but is always peppered with laughs and anecdotes along...
2024-12-1747 min
Parenting is a JokeMegan Gailey Scores a Parenting Hat TrickIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with comedian Megan Gailey to explore the realities of parenting in the male-dominated world of comedy, how women in comedy can’t escape scrutiny regarding their appearance and weight, and how it feels to deliver jokes while pregnant and also as a new mom. Megan opens up about how the pregnancy gave her a fresh perspective on her material and the challenges of fitting motherhood into an already packed schedule that includes going on the road. They trade absurd advice they’ve received as a new moms and...
2024-12-1040 min
Parenting is a JokeRyan Britt Geeks Out About ParentingIn this episode, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with author, cultural critic, and father Ryan Britt for a fascinating conversation that blends geek culture, parenting, and life transitions. They reflect on their early days performing live at Moth storytelling shows in NYC and explore Ryan's journey as a writer of celebrated nonfiction books like Luke Skywalker Can't Read and Phasers on Stun.Ryan also shares his experience moving from New York to Maine to raise his daughter, deciding to homeschool, and discovering that the best way to fit in writing—or any creative project—is to let a litt...
2024-12-0342 min
Parenting is a JokeJoe List and Sarah Tollemache Are Having a BabyHost Ophira Eisenberg revisits one of her favorite interviews with two incredible comedians Joe List and Sarah Tollemache to talk about their marriage and the baby they are about to bring into this world! The conversation includes frank talk about fertility issues, the cost of treatment, the decision to go with an egg donor and how they envision their lives when this baby enters their world. Plus there are tons of laughs with these 3 comedians.Follow Joe List: https://www.instagram.com/joelistcomedy/Follow Sarah Tollemache https://www.instagram.com/stollemache/
2024-11-2642 min
Parenting is a JokeSarah Tollemache Plays the Newly Born GameIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with the hilariously candid comedian Sarah Tollemache, fresh off the release of her comedy special "Butthole Money." Together, they dive headfirst into the whirlwind of chaos and comedy that is the transition from pregnancy to parenthood. Expect a rollercoaster of laughs as they tackle the emotional and physical rollercoaster of raising a newborn, from the nipple-nibbling nightmares of breastfeeding to the societal pressures that make you want to hide in a closet with a bottle of wine. Both women dish out side-splitting anecdotes about juggling their...
2024-11-1954 min
Parenting is a JokeElectric Company with soon-to-be parent Ashley Austin MorrisIn this Parenting is a Joke snack, Ophira continues her chat with the talented comedian and actress Ashley Austin Morris, who's about to make the leap from creative powerhouse to working mom. Ashley opens up about her faith, her hilarious take on "dad excitement", and the challenges of figuring out how to recharge once the baby arrives. They also dive into Ashley’s experience on the Electric Company reboot, where she made the jump from theater pro to TV star. Plus, Ashley shares the heartwarming moment of running into a fan years later who recognized her as Francine....
2024-11-1426 min
Parenting is a JokeRemember You Were There with Pete DominickJoin host Ophira Eisenberg and comedian Pete Dominick in this bonus snack episode, where they talk about how to help your kids navigate the sea of information in today’s world, and practical tips for encouraging critical thinking to foster open dialogues and emotional well-being. They also share some laughs about holiday traditions and outrageous gifts for kids, and Pete offers the perfect remedy for those nostalgic moments when you wish you could turn back time.Follow Pete: https://x.com/petedominickSee Ophira LIVE: https://www.ophiraeisenberg.com/events
2024-11-0720 min
Parenting is a JokePeter Dominick is one Fearless ParentIt’s Election Day! Join Ophira Eisenberg as she welcomes back comedian and podcaster Pete Dominick for a candid and engaging conversation about the challenges and joys of modern parenting. In this episode, Pete shares his journey of nurturing independent and confident children while navigating the anxieties that can arise from current events. He discusses practical strategies to alleviate parenting fears, especially in a world filled with unsettling news.Pete emphasizes that character and work ethic should take precedence over academic performance, offering insights on how to help our kids discern what’s real versus fake in toda...
2024-11-0548 min
Parenting is a JokeOphira Eisenberg is Covered in Glitter, Crushes, and Costumes Gone WrongHappy Halloween, listeners! In this special Halloween Candy Snack, host Ophira Eisenberg shares heartwarming and hilarious reflections on childhood Halloween traditions and costumes. Did you use an old pillowcase for candy collection or create your costume from household items? She also shares her own unforgettable experience from a 7th grade Halloween dance, highlighting the bittersweet journey of adolescence, the search for connection, and the magic of first crushes. It's all spooky stuff!See Ophira LIVE: https://www.ophiraeisenberg.com/eventsSUBSCRIBE so you never miss O thing: https://www.ophiraeisenberg.com/sign-up
2024-10-3120 min
Parenting is a JokeOphira Edut is a Stellar Astro-MomEver wondered what happens when two Ophiras get together for an enlightening and cosmic chat? In this episode, host Ophira Eisenberg sits down with the fabulous Ophira Edut—one half of the renowned AstroTwins and a leading astrologer who’s mastered the stars and beyond! From their shared name to their unique journeys, they dive into everything from family dynamics to astrology's surprising connection to parenting.Ophira Edut opens up about her unconventional path to becoming an astrologer, revealing how she combines science and astrology for a grounded, insightful approach. (Did we mention her Mom was a Rabb...
2024-10-2950 min
Parenting is a JokePlaying to Kids and Comedy Crowds with Rich AronovitchIn this Parenting is a Joke snack, you get to feel like a fellow comic, hanging out post-show at the bar with comedians Rich Aronovitch and Ophira Eisenberg. They rant about how the challenges of performing can surprisingly mirror the ups and downs of parenting little kids and Rich shares a hilarious yet eye-opening story about hosting a recent show where he faced unexpected heckles, including a crying audience member, illustrating the chaos that often accompanies live performances.Follow Rich: https://www.instagram.com/richisfunny/See Ophira LIVE: https://www.ophiraeisenberg.com/events ...
2024-10-2423 min
Parenting is a JokeRich Aronovitch Loves that Kids Ruin CareersIn this episode of Parenting is a Joke, host Ophira Eisenberg chats with comedian and TikTok dance star Rich Aronovitch as he admits that he never planned to have kids but has found ultimate joy in being a dad to his two young boys. He discusses parenting during the pandemic and how he navigated the intense negotiations for a second child. He also talks about how to be present father while pursuing a demanding career, and Rich candidly reflects on his newfound parenting superpowers and the fine line between fun and exploitation on TikTok.Follow Rich: https://w...
2024-10-2243 min
Parenting is a Joke306: Greenroom Snacks with Wendy LiebmanIn this snack chat, Ophira Eisenberg talks to legendary comedian Wendy Liebman, master of one-liners and misdirection, who has graced the stages of nearly every late-night show in history—except for one! Wendy reflects on her fascinating journey through comedy, sharing anecdotes from her time on iconic shows, the best green room snacks, and what it was like performing for the likes of Jay Leno and Jimmy Fallon. Wendy also talks about the balance between truth and fabrication in her act and how her stepchildren reacted to her jokes—especially one that made her son question reality. ...
2024-10-1720 min
Parenting is a JokeWendy Liebman is World’s Greatest SmomIn this episode, the fabulous Wendy Liebman sits down with Ophira to talk about her unexpected adventure into stepparenting after falling head over heels for a man with two young boys. Wendy, who initially thought kids were about as appealing as a surprise tax audit, shares how her heart—and her whole life—flipped upside down when she met her husband. She dives into the joys, the challenges, and the occasional “What have I signed up for?!” moments of blending families. She describes heartwarming moments that solidified her bond with the kids, like when her youngest complimented her reading voice an...
2024-10-1545 min
Parenting is a JokeUp Up and Away with Ryan BeckIn this snack chat Ophira and Ryan discuss the emotional rollercoaster of bedtime routines—complete with reluctant tooth brushing and pajama protests. As every parent knows, no child is busier, hungrier, or more defiant than when they hear the words, “It’s bedtime!”They also discuss the best birthday parties they could imagine throwing their kids, if money and time were no object!Follow Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/iamryanbeck/See Ophira LIVE: https://www.ophiraeisenberg.com/eventsSUBSCRIBE so you never miss O thing: https://w...
2024-10-1019 min
Parenting is a JokeRyan Beck is no Cryin’ RyanJoin comedian Ryan Beck and host Ophira Eisenberg as Ryan shares his unique perspective on raising a toddler with big emotions—something he can relate to from his own childhood. They explore the highs and lows of parenting, comparing babies to trendy handbags and lamps—cute, but sometimes not very functional. Ophira and Ryan also discuss the quest for the perfect therapist, reflecting on what they need now as parents. And Ryan opens up about his childhood nickname, “Cryin’ Ryan,” and how those early experiences shape his approach to parenting today.Whether you’re a seasoned parent or just star...
2024-10-0846 min
Parenting is a JokeMuppets and Motherhood Mayhem with Kimmy GatewoodOphira is back with a delightful snack chat featuring the talented Kimmy Gatewood! In this episode, Kimmy opens up about her early career experiences, including some memorable low-lights—one of which working for a post-colonial academic that Ophira actually recognizes.Kimmy also shares her incredible experience directing the iconic Muppets, including her personal favorite, Animal, and how she shares this passion with her daughter. Tune in for a spirited conversation filled with laughs, insights, and a few behind-the-scenes stories from the world of puppetry!Follow Kimmy: https://www.instagram.com/kimmygatewood/See Ophira LIV...
2024-10-0327 min
Parenting is a JokeKimmy Gatewood Gives Us a GLOW-UP!Ophira is joined by the talented Kimmy Gatewood, actor and director known for her standout role in Netflix’s series G.L.O.W., which celebrates female wrestlers. Kimmy is also an award-winning director, currently helming Season 3 of Girls5eva, and has an impressive portfolio that includes projects like The Babysitter’s Club, The Chicken Sisters, and Sesame Street. Behind the Scenes of G.L.O.W.: Kimmy shares how she views directing as a form of empowerment and defiance in a male-dominated industry, tells a great story of playing trombone alongside Ryan Gosling discusses being more conscious of her...
2024-10-0143 minParenting is a JokeLiz Gumbinner Proves Mo' Mothers Mo' BetterBack-to-school special sponsored by Educational Insights: Ophira gets real with Liz Gumbinner, the genius behind the Mom101 blog and host of the award-winning podcast, Spawned. From parenting teens in the digital age, to the surprising tale of a Disney World meltdown that changed her mind about wanting kids — this episode needs to be in your parenting survival kit!Yes, this episode is brought to you by our friends at EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS, makers of the totally gone-viral screen-free toys Knoodle and Brain Bolt. Get 15% off select Knoodles and Brain Bolts by using Ophira’s exclusive code 15JOKE when you...
2024-08-1350 min