In this episode of Sex, Drugs, and Soul, I talk with stand-up comedian Tony Casillas about the courage it takes to be funny when the truth isn't always comfortable.

We unpack how personal experiences, from strict religious upbringings to flawed sex education, inform the jokes comedians tell and the deeper truths behind them. From bombing on stage to navigating audience dynamics, this is a conversation about vulnerability, resilience, and using humor to cope with the chaos of being human.

Topics we explore include:
✦ How comedians use personal stories as social commentary
✦ Why religion, politics, and parenting are comedy gold…and landmines
✦ The role of selfishness and responsibility in today's society
✦ Why we need more nuance (and more laughs) in political discourse

Whether you’re a comedy nerd or someone trying to understand or survive the world through laughter, there’s something here for you.

00:00, Introduction and Banter
02:41, The Courage of Stand-Up Comedy
05:38, The Journey to Stand-Up
08:58, Experiencing Bombs and Resilience
11:48, Navigating Different Audiences
14:58, The Impact of Religion on Creativity
17:52, Substance Use and Creativity
20:52, The Taboo of Sex Education
23:45, The Influence of Upbringing on Choices
26:47, Curiosity and Questioning Society
33:27, The Role of Parents in Children's Lives
36:01, Selfishness and Human Nature
39:17, The Misuse of Children in Political Arguments
41:34, Wealth, Responsibility, and Community
45:29, Nuance in Politics and Social Issues
48:29, Selfishness vs. Self-Care
50:47, Comedy and Social Consciousness
54:55, The Importance of Humor in Difficult Times

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