"Nick Kroll"
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In this vibrant episode of SmartLess, hosts Jason, Sean, and JB welcome the multi-talented Nick Kroll, known for his work on Big Mouth, The Kroll Show, and numerous voice roles. The conversation begins with a playful exchange about morning routines, including JB’s ritual of watching baseball highlights and Sean’s word game habit, before diving into Kroll’s journey from a privileged upbringing in Rye, New York, to becoming a comedy powerhouse. Kroll shares candid stories about bombing his first college comedy competition—only to be invited to audition by Mike Birbiglia, a pivotal moment that launched his career. He reflects on his deep creative partnership with Andrew Goldberg, his co-creator of Big Mouth, and the surprising misconception that the hormone monster Maury was voiced by Will Arnett. The discussion expands to his family background, including his father’s work as a risk mitigation consultant for dictators, a detail that adds a layer of intrigue to Kroll’s life. He also reveals how Harry Styles helped plan his proposal to wife Lily during the filming of Don’t Worry Darling. Throughout, Kroll emphasizes the importance of staying broadly talented, maintaining creative momentum, and finding joy in the process. The episode closes with heartfelt praise for Kroll’s humor, versatility, and authenticity, leaving listeners inspired by his relentless creativity and self-awareness.
Embrace a 'B-' mindset: Aim for consistency over perfection to maintain longevity and avoid criticism.
Your first failure might be your biggest opportunity—Kroll’s comedy bombing led to a life-changing audition.
Creative partnerships thrive on shared history and mutual trust, like Kroll and Goldberg’s decades-long collaboration.
Privilege doesn’t diminish hard work—Kroll acknowledges his advantages while crediting his relentless effort.
Humor can be a powerful tool for healing and connection, especially when it comes from personal truth.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Morning Routines & The Power of Play
The episode kicks off with playful banter about the hosts' morning rituals—JB’s baseball game tape-delay habit, Sean’s word games, and the metaphor of coffee as a 'fuse' to ignite the day. The conversation sets a lighthearted tone, emphasizing how small rituals can fuel motivation and joy.
The First Comedy Bomb & A Life-Changing Invitation
“I walked out of that thing, I was like, this is it. This is what I want to do.”
Big Mouth, Maury, and the Voice Behind the Hormone Monster
“Touch yourself, Andrew. That was the voice.”
Growing Up in Rye: Privilege, Power, and Family Secrets
“He dealt drugs to arms dealers. Got it. That's lucrative.”
The Creative Engine: From UCB to Netflix
Kroll reflects on his early days at UCB, where he was inspired by the likes of Besser, Walsh, and Amy. He describes how seeing the early days of the improv scene ignited his passion. The chapter explores how he transitioned from fan to performer, fueled by a hunger to be part of the creative ecosystem.
“I walked out of that thing, I was like, this is it. This is what I want to do.”
“Touch yourself, Andrew. That was the voice.”
“We were at the height of COVID... and Harry checked in with me to be like, how’d it go?”
Hosts
Guest
Nick Kroll
person
Big Mouth
other
JB Smiley
person
Jason Bateman
person
Andrew Goldberg
person
Sean Hayes
person
The Kroll Show
other
Mating Season
other
Mike Birbiglia
person
UCB
organization
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