Ep. 176 “Stage 4 Billionaire”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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Overview
In the Solo Podcast Recording meeting titled “Stage 4 Billionaire,” host Patrick Holbert introduces the latest episode of his podcast “We Hired a Sitter for This” and shares personal updates, including reflections on his 8th wedding anniversary and a recent comedy show experience. He reminisces about childhood rollerblading, discusses the complexities of adult friendships, and expresses concerns about wealth inequality and economic challenges, particularly in the subscription-based economy. Alongside critiques of social media’s impact on artists and views on Trump’s policies, Patrick outlines his upcoming comedy performances and expresses a commitment to advancing his career in comedy and filmmaking. Key action items include performing at various venues, participating in a fundraiser, and attending a film premiere.

 

Notes

️ Podcast Introduction and Personal Updates (00:00 – 09:36)

  • Patrick Holbert introduces ‘We Hired a Sitter for This’ podcast
  • Discusses personal appearance and recording setup
  • Mentions 176th episode and recent solo recordings
  • Reflects on 8th wedding anniversary with Ross
  • Shares anecdote about Nathan Lee attending a comedy show

Reflections on Past and Present (09:37 – 22:28)

  • Reminisces about childhood activities, particularly rollerblading
  • Discusses the perception of rollerblading vs. skateboarding
  • Reflects on maintaining friendships into adulthood
  • Mentions current work situation and financial concerns
  • Expresses frustration with billionaires and wealth inequality

Economic and Social Commentary (22:28 – 34:56)

  • Critiques subscription-based economy and its impact on artists
  • Discusses the role of social media in advertising
  • Expresses concern about the future of work and retirement
  • Shares thoughts on Trump’s economic policies and manufacturing
  • Proposes ideas for revitalizing American manufacturing

️ Upcoming Events and Personal Goals (34:58 – 43:08)

  • Lists upcoming comedy shows and dates
  • Mentions premiere of ‘Tom Dustin Portrait of a Comedian’
  • Expresses desire to focus on comedy and filmmaking career
  • Discusses recent editing work and future aspirations
  • Congratulates Gastor on directorial debut

 

Action items

Patrick Holbert

  • Perform at Fairfield Comedy Circle in Connecticut (36:40)
  • Emcee at the Laugh Tour in Jersey City (37:33)
  • Feature at Tilly’s Farm Table in Westchester County (37:40)
  • Potentially perform in Denver during family trip (38:10)
  • Perform in Sullivan County and Binghamton (38:32)
  • Participate in Josh Tatum’s fundraiser show in Highland, NY (38:39)
  • Attend NYC premiere of ‘Tom Dustin Portrait of a Comedian’ at Quad Cinemas (38:46)

Ep. 175 “A Brief Hold”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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Overview

In the latest episode of “We Hired a Sitter for This,” the host shares a candid monologue reflecting on their challenging week, marked by fatigue from recent flu and Covid vaccinations, and the struggles of juggling a busy career as a stand-up comedian in New York City while managing financial stress. The episode recounts enjoyable weekend moments spent playing in the snow with their daughter, Franny, and visiting the Whitney Museum, though it took a turn as post-outing food choices led to health concerns. The host discusses a particularly tough day at work dealing with mental health clients and a chaotic encounter with an impatient customer at a car rental, highlighting the pressures of capitalism and customer service expectations. Throughout the monologue, the host expresses a desire to adopt healthier eating habits and a commitment to maintain a consistent podcast release schedule while embracing more of the cultural experiences New York City has to offer.

 

Notes

️ Podcast Introduction and Host’s Current State (00:00 – 05:05)

  • Podcast: “We Hired a Sitter for This”
  • Host feeling unwell after receiving flu and Covid vaccines
  • Recording late due to fatigue and busy schedule
  • Stand-up comedian in New York City
  • Financial stress and hustling for work

️ Weekend Activities and Family Time (05:05 – 09:53)

  • Played in snow with daughter Franny
  • Visited Whitney Museum on free Second Sunday
  • Crowded museum experience with Franny
  • Ate at Shake Shack, possibly causing illness

Health Concerns and Work Challenges (09:55 – 15:00)

  • Feeling sick after eating junk food
  • Desire to break unhealthy eating habits
  • Difficult day at work with mental health clients
  • Encounter with a challenging customer (Karen) at car rental return

Car Rental Return Incident (15:00 – 21:05)

  • Chaotic scene at Enterprise car rental
  • Worker overwhelmed by multiple customers and constant phone calls
  • Karen’s disruptive behavior and worker’s emotional breakdown
  • Reflection on capitalism and customer expectations
Action items
Unassigned

  • Maintain consistent podcast release schedule (01:33)
  • Consider making more effort to experience New York City culture (08:10)
  • Use current illness as motivation to break unhealthy eating habits (10:39)

Ep. 174 “Documental Health”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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Overview
In the podcast episode titled “174 Pod.mp3,” co-host Patrick Holbert shares insights into his journey with the show “We Hired a Sitter for This,” originally launched in 2017 as “Who Cares about Ross and Patrick?” This episode features a solo discussion about the exciting launch of the documentary trailer for “Tom Dustin: Portrait of a Comedian,” which Patrick directed and filmed alongside Joe List, highlighting themes of friendship, career paths, and mental health in the comedy realm. He also reflects on his past documentary experiences, including challenging shoots from MTV’s True Life series, and looks ahead to upcoming comedy shows and a special set to release on Comedy Dynamics in April. Action items for listeners include watching the documentary trailer and attending Patrick’s live shows.

 

Notes

️ Podcast Introduction and Background (00:00 – 11:01)

  • Podcast titled “We Hired a Sitter for This”
  • Started with wife Ross Martineau in 2017
  • Changed name from “Who Cares about Ross and Patrick?” a year ago
  • Co-hosted with Gastor Almonte for the past year
  • Current episode is a solo recording by Patrick

Documentary Project with Joe List (11:01 – 20:44)

  • Launching official trailer for documentary with Joe List
  • Documentary titled “Tom Dustin: Portrait of a Comedian”
  • Filmed in Key West for four days in February 2023
  • Explores long-term friendship, career paths, and mental health in comedy
  • Patrick’s experience shooting and directing the documentary

Personal Experiences in Documentary Filmmaking (20:44 – 32:13)

  • Reflection on past documentary work, including True Life series for MTV
  • Experience filming with Danielle from Real Housewives of New Jersey
  • Challenging and sometimes dangerous situations while filming
  • Insights into the documentary filmmaking process

Upcoming Projects and Shows (32:14 – 41:27)

  • Patrick’s upcoming comedy shows and appearances
  • Special coming out in April on Comedy Dynamics via Amazon
  • Featuring for Ian Finance in Wisconsin and Ron on Hirshberg in Chicago
  • Importance of maintaining consistent podcast episodes

 

Action items

Unassigned

  • Watch and comment on Joe List’s documentary trailer on YouTube (03:41)
  • Attend Patrick’s show at Grizzly Pair at midnight on February 5th (38:43)
  • Attend Don’t Tell New Jersey show in Jersey City on Saturday at 7pm (38:47)
  • Watch Patrick’s special on Comedy Dynamics via Amazon in April (39:06)

Ep. 173 “Gabby’s Dollhouse of Horrors”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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In the latest episode of ‘We Hired a Sitter for This’ podcast, titled “Gabby’s Dollhouse of Horrors,” Patrick records solo from his home studio in Bushwick, NYC, utilizing the time freed up by a client cancellation to discuss various personal and professional updates. He shares insights on his renewed commitment to treadmill workouts and candidly addresses struggles with sugar addiction, while also reflecting on recent stand-up performances, including a surprise gig at a fundraiser. Patrick recounts a challenging family outing to the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and contemplates upcoming travel plans, including shows in Wisconsin and a family trip to Colorado. As he looks toward the future, he considers potential shifts in his podcasting career and outlines actionable steps for enhancing his show’s reach, such as booking studio time with guests and improving his website.
Notes
️ Podcast Introduction and Setup (00:00 – 07:56)

  • Episode 173 of ‘We Hired a Sitter for This’ podcast
  • Patrick recording alone in his home studio in Bushwick, NYC
  • Multitasking due to a client cancellation
  • Discusses potential studio recordings with guests

️ Personal Updates and Exercise (07:56 – 17:20)

  • Resumed treadmill workouts with hill incline setting
  • Discussing sugar addiction and body image concerns
  • Commiserating with friend Pat V. about sweets addiction
  • Mentions documentary work with Joe List

Weekend Comedy Shows (17:21 – 27:50)

  • Performed at Laugh Tour comedy club in Jersey City
  • Surprise gig at ‘Butt Disco’ fundraiser for Burning Man group
  • Detailed experience of performing at a karate dojo in Maplewood, NJ
  • Reflections on audience interactions and performance challenges

‍‍ Family Activities and Challenges (27:51 – 37:00)

  • Visit to Brooklyn Children’s Museum for Gabby’s Dollhouse event
  • Crowded and overwhelming experience at the museum
  • Face painting line and moral dilemma about line-cutting
  • Concerns about sanitation and crowded spaces

️ Future Plans and Financial Reflections (37:01 – 46:49)

  • Upcoming shows in Wisconsin and potential Chicago gigs
  • Family trip to Colorado from March 22nd to 28th
  • Gratitude for family’s financial support for the trip
  • Reflections on podcast future and potential career focus shifts
Action items
Patrick

  • Consider booking studio space for recording podcast episodes with guests (03:01)
  • Get either COVID or flu vaccine (29:07)
  • Update website calendar with upcoming shows (46:32)
  • Sell merchandise at shows (46:42)

Ep. 172 “Concert of Farts”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized, , , , , , , ,

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In Episode 172 of the podcast “We Hired a Sitter for This,” the host presents a solo episode that opens with a humorous anecdote involving a misunderstanding with their daughter over a bathroom incident, leading to reflections on the complexities of a post-truth society. The conversation transitions into the host’s fascination with spiritual and paranormal topics, including telepathy, reincarnation, and aliens, while balancing skepticism and belief in the supernatural. The episode recounts the host’s recent trip to Salem for the premiere of a Tom Dustin documentary, where technical sound issues contrasted with the audience’s warm reception. As the episode unfolds, the host reflects on aspirations to create more documentaries amid financial concerns and a philosophical contemplation of life’s purpose rooted in love. It concludes with a recap of recent comedy gigs, highlights the supportive community within comedy, and addresses uncertainties regarding the podcast’s future and audience engagement, with action items encouraging a deeper exploration of documentary filmmaking and the effectiveness of the podcast itself.

Notes

️ Solo Episode Introduction (00:24 – 08:32)

  • Episode 172 of “We Hired a Sitter for This”
  • Solo episode by the host
  • Morning incident involving a fart sound in the bathroom
  • Misunderstanding with daughter about the source of the sound
  • Reflection on post-truth society

Spiritual and Paranormal Interests (08:32 – 18:22)

  • Discussion about telepathy and the “Telepathy Tapes” podcast
  • Thoughts on past lives and reincarnation
  • Interest in aliens and UFO disclosure
  • Skepticism vs. belief in supernatural phenomena

Comedy Experiences and Documentary Premiere (18:22 – 28:09)

  • Trip to Salem, Massachusetts
  • Premiere of Tom Dustin documentary in Somerville
  • Technical issues with sound during the screening
  • Positive audience response to the film

Spirituality and Career Reflections (28:09 – 41:19)

  • Further discussion on telepathy and alien theories
  • Desire to make more documentary films
  • Financial concerns and seeking work opportunities
  • Reflection on the purpose of life being love

Comedy Gigs and Podcast Reflections (41:19 – 50:27)

  • Recap of recent comedy performances
  • Positive experience at Summer Shack in Cambridge
  • Appreciation for Jack Burke’s kindness to new comedians
  • Uncertainty about the podcast’s future and audience

 

Ep. 171 “Do You Know Who I Am??”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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Overview
Notes

Comedy Career and Business (00:00 – 09:59)

  • Patrick and Gastor discuss inspirational business meeting
  • Gastor’s business acumen comes from his father
  • Gastor sold candies in high school for profit
  • Patrick hoarded money as a kid due to scarcity mindset
  • Discussion on balancing creativity and business mindset

Comedy Industry Insights (09:59 – 19:44)

  • Mark Normand’s approach to joke writing as a money-making venture
  • Gastor’s plan to highlight his skills and collaborate more this year
  • Patrick’s experience with new material and upcoming special
  • Discussion on work ethic in comedy and success

Comedy Shows and Venues (19:44 – 29:35)

  • Gianmarco’s work ethic and success discussed
  • Importance of performing frequently and in various venues
  • Alex’s success with vegan restaurant and comedy career
  • Discussion on comedy rooms in restaurants and bars

Comedy Challenges and Etiquette (29:36 – 37:37)

  • Debate on pitching oneself for shows and opportunities
  • Discussion on comedy club dynamics and getting passed at clubs
  • Critique of overused phrases in comedy like ‘clap it up’
  • Importance of preparation and closing bits in sets

️ Podcast Experiences (37:38 – 47:35)

  • Gastor’s experience with unprepared podcast hosts
  • Patrick’s experience with disrespectful introductions
  • Discussion on the challenges of podcasting and interviewing
  • Importance of research and preparation in podcasting

️ Upcoming Shows and Closing Thoughts (47:35 – 56:10)

  • Gastor’s upcoming shows in Saratoga and other locations
  • Patrick’s potential shows in Colorado and Wisconsin
  • Reflections on respect in the comedy community
  • Closing remarks and New Year wishes
Action items

Gastro

  • Plan and execute collaborations to highlight skills (09:59)
  • Pitch himself for ‘Stand up on the Spot’ show (39:04)

Patrick

  • Organize YouTube channel with sections for stand-up and podcasts (29:36)
  • Consider posting recent hosting set clips, editing out unfinished jokes (29:36)
  • Attend Gastor’s show at Comedy Works in Saratoga (46:45)

Ep. 170 “Two Cry Limit”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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Overview
In an informal discussion, participants reminisced about memorable experiences from 2005, including social gatherings and the cultural impact of shows like The Apprentice, particularly focusing on Donald Trump’s early public persona. They shared anecdotes from a New Year’s Eve party that blended family friends and comedians, highlighting the unique dynamics of such interactions, particularly with karaoke involved. Topics evolved to parenting, where they discussed appropriate restaurant behavior for children and established a ‘two-cry rule’ for public settings while suggesting ways to compensate disturbed diners. Conversations continued on living arrangements with parents, weighing the benefits of proximity to family against independence, before transitioning to creative ambitions for the New Year, including goals for a YouTube channel and the challenges of content creation. Action items were identified, including producing more clips for the YouTube channel, posting recorded shows, and considering original documentary projects to enhance viewership.
Notes
Reminiscing About 2005 (00:00 – 09:11)

  • Discussed memories from 2005, including parties in Williamsburg and Astoria
  • Mentioned watching the first season of The Apprentice with Donald Trump
  • Reflected on Trump’s public persona and business image at the time
  • Discussed making casting tapes for The Apprentice

New Year’s Eve Party (09:11 – 18:53)

  • One participant hosted a New Year’s Eve party at their parents’ house
  • The party was a mix of family friends and comedians
  • Discussed the dynamics of mixing civilians and comedians at social gatherings
  • Mentioned karaoke and singing attempts at the party
  • Discussed the issue of having more beer after the party than before

Parenting and Restaurant Etiquette (18:53 – 28:13)

  • Discussed a New Year’s Eve dinner at Roberta’s Pizza with kids from daycare
  • Debated appropriate behavior for children in restaurant settings
  • Established a ‘two-cry rule’ for children in public spaces
  • Suggested tipping extra or buying drinks for disturbed tables as compensation

Living Arrangements and Family (28:13 – 38:48)

  • Discussed potential living arrangements with parents
  • One participant’s parents offered their upstairs apartment
  • Debated pros and cons of living closer to family
  • Mentioned the idea of having a ‘crash pad’ at parents’ place for extended visits

Creative Goals and YouTube Channel (38:48 – 48:12)

  • Discussed New Year’s resolutions, focusing on creative projects
  • Expressed desire to grow YouTube channel and reach 500 subscribers
  • Mentioned upcoming Tom Dustin documentary with theatrical release
  • Discussed the challenges of creating content and growing an audience
  • Reflected on the sacrifices required for success in creative fields
Action items
Pat Miscellaneous

  • Create more clips for the YouTube channel to grow the audience (45:43)
  • Post three duo shows that have already been recorded (46:02)
  • Consider making original documentaries for the YouTube channel (46:43)

Ep. 169 “Fun to the Head”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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As we were recording this felt like the last podcast of 2024, not the first of 2025. So please pardon our appearance and attitude and general malaise. This one was recorded mainly to keep the streak alive. Ross didn’t want to do it and I barely did either. But we are here and perhaps there’s a nugget of truth or connection that will bring some pleasure into your day? Thanks for listening!! Here’s to a happy and healthy new year.

Ep. 168 “Merry BMX-mas”

Advice, Comedy, Marriage, Parenting, Pop Culture, Sex, Travel, Uncategorized

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Overview
In episode 168 of the “We Hired a Sitter for this” podcast, the hosts engage in a light-hearted conversation on various topics, starting with a humorous take on the Elf on the Shelf tradition and fond childhood memories associated with Christmas ornaments and gifts, such as an NBA Live game and a GT performer BMX bike. They explore family dynamics, sharing anecdotes about sibling relationships, parental favoritism, and the memories of childhood squabbles. The discussion transitions to “old man strength,” where they recount physical confrontations with family members and the differences in fighting style across ages. They reflect on physical fitness, aging, and the commitment required for fitness activities like stand-up comedy versus working out. The episode also touches on holiday traditions, family gatherings, and the challenges of hosting, while celebrating the milestone of the podcast completing its 52nd episode, marking a full year of weekly episodes.
Notes
Christmas Discussion (00:13 – 08:53)

  • Episode 168 of “We Hired a Sitter for this” podcast
  • Discussed dislike for Elf on the Shelf tradition
  • Talked about Christmas ornaments and childhood memories
  • Mentioned favorite Christmas gifts (NBA Live game, GT performer BMX bike)

Family Dynamics (08:53 – 18:19)

  • Discussed sibling relationships and parental favoritism
  • Shared stories about childhood fights with siblings and cousins
  • Talked about parents’ birthdays and activities

Dad Strength and Fights (18:19 – 30:13)

  • Discussed the concept of “old man strength”
  • Shared stories about physical confrontations with siblings and cousins
  • Talked about the differences between younger and older men in fights

️ Physical Fitness and Aging (30:13 – 39:08)

  • Discussed the idea of getting in shape and going to the gym
  • Talked about commitment to different activities (stand-up comedy vs. working out)
  • Shared thoughts on aging and physical changes

Holiday Traditions (39:08 – 48:40)

  • Discussed family gatherings for various holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s)
  • Talked about hosting parties and the challenges that come with it
  • Mentioned the desire for parents to move and leave their house to the children
  • Celebrated the 52nd episode of the podcast, marking a full year of weekly episodes

Ep. 167 “You’re The Monster”

Uncategorized

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Overview
In the latest episode of the podcast, titled “167 pod,” the hosts, reunited after a week apart, delved into various personal and professional topics. They discussed the potential departure of co-host Ross from the show, shared Thanksgiving travel stories that highlighted car troubles, and explored broader issues like the mechanical problems with Patrick’s vehicle and financially challenging circumstances with trade-in valuations. The conversation then shifted to their comedy careers, touching on recent gigs, the dynamics of performing with fellow comedians, and the pressures of late-night shows. Additionally, they reflected on their career trajectories compared to younger peers, noted personal growth, and exchanged financial insights regarding car buying. The meeting concluded with action items for Patrick to research financing options and to prepare for an upcoming Christmas Day recording.
Notes
️ Podcast Recording (00:09 – 10:44)

  • Two hosts reunited after recording separately last week
  • Discussed co-host Ross potentially leaving the show
  • Recounted Thanksgiving travel experience and car issues
  • Mentioned challenges of driving with family and stopping for snacks

Car Problems and Mechanics (10:44 – 21:17)

  • Detailed issues with Patrick’s car, including brake problems
  • Discussed mechanic’s advice to get a new car
  • Mentioned Carvana’s low valuation of the car at $200

Comedy Career and Shows (21:17 – 32:00)

  • Talked about recent comedy gigs and experiences
  • Discussed working with other comedians like Alex Bebbit
  • Mentioned challenges of late-night shows and audience reactions

Peer Comparisons and Career Paths (32:01 – 42:08)

  • Reflected on career trajectories of fellow comedians
  • Discussed feeling old compared to younger comedians
  • Mentioned Alex’s family situation and personal growth

Financial Decisions and Future Plans (42:08 – 51:46)

  • Discussed car buying strategies and financial advice
  • Reflected on past financial decisions in comedy career
  • Compared careers with former classmates in different fields
  • Planned to record another episode for Christmas Day
Action items
Patrick

  • Research car financing options and consider getting pre-approved for a loan before visiting dealerships (43:50)
  • Look into used car options as a potential cost-saving measure (44:35)

Unassigned

  • Plan and record the Christmas Day episode (51:08)