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 Pixabay
Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com
Follow us on Social media:
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Show 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-netflix
Richard Farnsworth's Dignity and Grace: https://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/article/richard-farnsworth-s-dignity-and-grace-3238556.php
ChatGPT, Medication and an Epilepsy-Related Death - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/27/well/ai-chatgpt-medication-epilepsy-death.html
Parents of Woman Who Died of Seizure After ChatGPT Misguidance Sue OpenAI - https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/nov/01/chatgpt-woman-seizure-lawsuit-openai
Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy: A Critical View of the Literature - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/epi4.12722
Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy: Epidemiology, Mechanisms, and Prevention - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27571159/
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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 Pixabay
Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com
Follow us on Social media:
Twitter: @doctorvcomedian
Instagram: doctorvcomedian
Show 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-x
The 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/s40279-023-01870-9
Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Cognitive Function of Healthy Individuals: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29704637/
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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 Pixabay
Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com
Follow us on Social media:
Twitter: @doctorvcomedian
Instagram: doctorvcomedian
Show Notes
Sebastian 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.html
Christa 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.html
Physicians and Execution - https://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJMe0800032
Clinicians' Involvement in Capital Punishment — Constitutional Implications: https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMp1405651
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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 Pixabay
Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com
Follow us on Social media:
Twitter: @doctorvcomedian
Instagram: doctorvcomedian
Show Notes:
Hasan Minhaj’s “Emotional Truths”: https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-communications/hasan-minhajs-emotional-truths
Hasan 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-8718856
Hasan 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.html
A New Special Finds Hasan Minhaj Relaxed, Confident, and Ready to Move Past the Backlash
A 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.html
Episode 1273 Hasan Minhaj: http://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/episode-1273-hasan-minhaj
How 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-1.5261347
Deep brain stimulation: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/deep-brain-stimulation/about/pac-20384562
Deep brain stimulation: https://www.michaeljfox.org/deep-brain-stimulation
Deep 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
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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 Pixabay
Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com
Follow us on Social media:
Twitter: @doctorvcomedian
Instagram: doctorvcomedian

Show Notes:
How Larry David Makes You Cringe: https://medium.com/wisecrack/how-larry-david-makes-you-cringe-f6c1a1fa9ae4
Watch the Evolution of Cringe Comedy in 9 Clips: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/29/arts/television/larry-david-curb-your-enthusiasm-cringe-comedy.html
Larry 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-cringe
Every Episode of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm,’ Ranked: https://www.theringer.com/tv/2020/3/23/21188827/curb-your-enthusiasm-episode-rankings-updated
Sharing the Enthusiasm: https://www.theringer.com/tv/2021/11/19/22789464/curb-your-enthusiasm-cameos-oral-history
Male menopause: Myth or reality? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/male-menopause/art-20048056
Male hypogonadism: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-hypogonadism/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354886
Is 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-plunge
Testosterone Therapy for Hypogonadism Guideline Resources: https://www.endocrine.org/clinical-practice-guidelines/testosterone-therapy#2
Testosterone Treatments: Why, When, and How? https://www.aafp.org/afp/2006/0501/p1591.html
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