Doctor Vs Comedian

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Is Laughter the best medicine? We attempt to answer this and other pressing questions in Doctor Vs Comedian. Dr Asif Doja is a pediatric neurologist and Ali Hassan is a stand up comedian and actor (CBC‘s Laugh Out Loud, Designated Survivor, Goon) who are each fascinated by what the other one does. In each episode, Asif picks a topic for Ali from comedy and entertainment and questions Ali about it. Then Ali picks a topic from medicine and health and grills Asif on that subject.We talk about serious subjects in an unserious way. If you want to hear about comedy, entertainment, health and wellness and don‘t want to have to choose between being entertaining AND informed, then this show is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 1d ago

    The Death Of Comedy (Sebastian Maniscalco and Sirius XM) and The Death Penalty

    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.htmlChrista 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.htmlPhysicians and Execution - https://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJMe0800032Clinicians' Involvement in Capital Punishment — Constitutional Implications: https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMp1405651 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. Oct 23

    Best of Dvs C: Hasan Minhaj’s “Off With His Head” / Deep Brain Stimulation

    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-truthsHasan 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-8718856Hasan 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.htmlA New Special Finds Hasan Minhaj Relaxed, Confident, and Ready to Move Past the BacklashA 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.htmlEpisode 1273 Hasan Minhaj: http://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/episode-1273-hasan-minhajHow 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-1.5261347Deep brain stimulation: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/deep-brain-stimulation/about/pac-20384562Deep brain stimulation: https://www.michaeljfox.org/deep-brain-stimulationDeep 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. Oct 16

    Best of DvsC: Larry David, ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and Cringe Comedy / Andropause

    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-f6c1a1fa9ae4Watch the Evolution of Cringe Comedy in 9 Clips: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/29/arts/television/larry-david-curb-your-enthusiasm-cringe-comedy.htmlLarry 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-cringeEvery Episode of ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm,’ Ranked: https://www.theringer.com/tv/2020/3/23/21188827/curb-your-enthusiasm-episode-rankings-updatedSharing the Enthusiasm: https://www.theringer.com/tv/2021/11/19/22789464/curb-your-enthusiasm-cameos-oral-historyMale menopause: Myth or reality? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/male-menopause/art-20048056Male hypogonadism: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-hypogonadism/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354886Is 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-plungeTestosterone Therapy for Hypogonadism Guideline Resources: https://www.endocrine.org/clinical-practice-guidelines/testosterone-therapy#2Testosterone Treatments: Why, When, and How? https://www.aafp.org/afp/2006/0501/p1591.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. Oct 9

    Top 21st century TV Shows and Runner’s Diarrhea

    Today, Ali and Asif discuss the New York Times list of the top 100 shows of the 21st century and then they each give their individual top 10 lists (2:14). Listen to hear where ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Wire’, ‘Arrested Development’, ‘Succession’ and others land on their lists! Then, based on the recent Hyrox diarrhea incident involving Joanna Wietrzyk, the guys discuss runner’s diarrhea (39:33)– a common manifestation of exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms (Ex-GIS), characterized by urgency, abdominal cramping, loose stools, and diarrhea during or shortly after running. Although usually benign and self-limited, gastrointestinal symptoms affect roughly 30–50% of endurance athletes with longer, more intense exercise, running, heat, dehydration, dietary factors, caffeine, NSAIDs, and aggressive carbohydrate or fluid intake increasing risk. The underlying mechanisms are discussed, including reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract during exercise and mechanical effects. Asif then discusses how runners can distinguish typical exercise-related symptoms from red flags such as bloody or persistent diarrhea, weight loss, or symptoms occurring outside exercise, as well as practical prevention strategies including hydration, nutrition adjustments, “gut training,” and selective use of a short-term low-FODMAP approach. 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 Show Notes: Here is the list in the requested format: The100 Best TV Shows of the 21st Century: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2026/arts/television/best-tv-shows-21st-century.htmlHYROX athlete forfeits victory, apologizes for diarrhea incident: https://www.newsnationnow.com/us-news/sports/hyrox-athlete-joanna-wietrzyk-apologizes-forfeits-diarrhea/Runner's diarrhea: what is it, what causes it, and how can it be prevented? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27798441/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. Oct 2

    Post partum depression and psychosis

    The case of Lindsay Clancy recently ended in mistrial, so today Asif and Ali discuss post partrum depression and psychosis. The guys start off by discussing discuss postpartum depression/perinatal depression (3:58), a common and treatable medical condition that can affect parents during pregnancy or after childbirth. They explore how postpartum depression differs from the “baby blues,” how to recognize symptoms beyond simply feeling tired or overwhelmed, and why depression may begin during pregnancy rather than after delivery. They then discuss risk factors, screening questions, the effects of untreated depression on parents, babies, and families, and the fact that fathers and non-birthing partners can also experience perinatal depression. Finally, Asif goes over evidence-based treatments, including psychotherapy and antidepressant medications, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms early, reducing stigma, and ensuring that parents have access to appropriate care. Then they discuss postpartum psychosis (17:26), a rare but serious psychiatric emergency that typically develops within days after childbirth. Asif and Ali explore what postpartum psychosis looks like—including hallucinations, delusions, confusion, severe agitation, extreme insomnia, mania, and dramatic changes in behavior—and how it differs from postpartum depression and the “baby blues.” Asif then discusses the strong association with bipolar disorder, why postpartum psychosis can be the first presentation of a major psychiatric illness, and the risk factors and warning signs that families should recognize. They also examine the potential risks to both parent and baby, why immediate medical and psychiatric evaluation is essential, how clinicians investigate possible medical causes, and treatments including antipsychotic medications, lithium, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Most importantly, he discusses why postpartum psychosis should be treated as an emergency—and why, with prompt recognition and appropriate treatment, most people recover. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from Pixabay Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com Follow us on Social media: Twitter: @doctorvcomedian Show Notes: Key moments in the Lindsay Clancy case: the 911 call, mental health care, mistrial: https://apnews.com/article/lindsay-clancy-massachusetts-trial-key-moments-3347cdc3f6c0c27c9d388d9696844771Incorporating Recognition and Management of Perinatal Depression Into Pediatric Practice: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/143/1/e20183260/37306/Incorporating-Recognition-and-Management-of?autologincheck=redirectedPostpartum Depression - URL https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmcp1607649?utm_source=openevidence (New England Journal of Medicine)Postpartum psychiatric disorders - URL https://www.nature.com/articles/nrdp201822 (Nature)Establishment of the MGH Postpartum Psychosis Project: MGHP3 - URL https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9910633/ (PubMed)Screening and Diagnosis of Mental Health Conditions During Pregnancy and Postpartum: ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline No. 4 - URL https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/abstract/10.1097/aog.0000000000005200~screening-and-diagnosis-of-mental-health-conditions-during?redirectionsource=fulltextview (PubMed) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. Sep 25

    Discussing Tourette Syndrome and ‘I Swear’ with Dr. Tamara Pringsheim

    Today Asif and Ali combine the medicine and entertainment subjects when they discuss “I Swear” – the BAFTA award winning movie about Tourette Syndrome (1:52). They chat about the background of the movie and how it is based on activist John Davidson, who has a severe version of Tourette Syndrome. They review how the film was developed, including discussion about director Kirk Jones and star Robert Aramayo. Then they give their thoughts on the film and single out Aramayo’s performance, which was awarded the BAFTA for Best Lead Actor earlier on this year. Then, they welcome guest Dr. Tamara Pringsheim to discuss the portrayal of Tourette Syndrome in ‘I Swear’ (13:59). Dr. Tamara Pringsheim is a Professor of Clinical Neurosciences, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Community Health Sciences at the University of Calgary and program lead for the Tourette and Pediatric Movement Disorder Program at Alberta Children’s Hospital. Dr. Pringsheim gives a brief overview of Tourette syndrome before examining the film’s depiction of severe tics, the sudden onset of symptoms, and commonly misunderstood features such as coprolalia (involuntary swearing), spitting, and hitting. She then discusses tic suppression, medication and the risks of advising someone to stop treatment without appropriate medical assessment, and the apparent “miracle cure” device featured at the end of the movie. Asif and Ali then ask Dr. Pringsheim about how the film has been received by clinicians and the Tourette community, the controversy surrounding the BAFTA awards, and whether ‘I Swear’ , along with the increasing visibility of tics on social media, has helped improve public understanding of Tourette syndrome. Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from Pixabay Contact us at doctorvcomedian@gmail.com Follow us on Social media: Twitter: @doctorvcomedian Show Notes: https://moviesnstuff.com/John's Not Mad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxfJDpd3XcYHow ‘I Swear’ star Robert Aramayo prepared to play Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson: “It’s impossible to copy John’s tics”: https://www.screendaily.com/interviews/how-i-swear-star-robert-aramayo-prepared-to-play-tourettes-campaigner-john-davidson-its-impossible-to-copy-johns-tics/5212033.articleThe True Story Behind I Swear and John Davidson's Journey with Tourette's: https://time.com/article/2026/04/21/i-swear-true-story-john-davidson/Robert Aramayo Wins the Leading Actor BAFTA for I Swear | EE BAFTA Film Awards 2026: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgRm0ZaDiJg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Sep 18

    ‘The Mental Illness Happy Hour” with comedian Paul Gilmartin

    NOTE: This episode contains explicit language and discussions of sexual abuse and self-harm  Today,  Ali and Asif are joined by comedian and longtime podcast host Paul Gilmartin, former co-host of TBS’s Dinner and a Movie, stand-up comedian, and creator and host of The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast. Paul talks about his journey into comedy and why so many comedians seem to have a complicated relationship with pain, vulnerability, and humor. We explore how The Mental Illness Happy Hour began, what he has learned from listening to thousands of people share their most personal experiences, and why simply feeling heard and understood can be so powerful—even when there is no advice, quick fix, or magic pill offered. We also discuss why people may reveal their deepest struggles to a stranger before turning to a spouse, family member, or doctor, and what comedians and physicians might each misunderstand about mental illness. 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 Show Notes: The Mental Illness Happy Hour: https://mentalpod.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. Sep 8

    The Legacy of Dolly Parton (plus Caregiver Burnout)

    Today Asif and Ali explore the remarkable life and legacy of Dolly Parton (1:55)—from her humble beginnings in rural Tennessee and extraordinary career as a singer, songwriter, actress, and entertainer to her enduring impact far beyond music. They discuss some of her most iconic songs, including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You,” as well as the business savvy that helped make her one of the most successful artists of all time. But Dolly’s greatest legacy may be her philanthropy: from the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library, which has provided millions of books to children around the world, to her support for education, children’s hospitals, and early COVID-19 vaccine research.  Then, since Dolly was caring for her husband in his final years (and may have neglected her own health), in the second half, they discuss caregiver burnout (26:44): what it is, who is most vulnerable, the warning signs that are easy to miss, and why guilt, resentment, and the loss of one’s identity can make things worse. Asif discusses why caregivers of people with dementia may be particularly vulnerable, why simply telling someone to “practice self-care” often misses the bigger problem, and how respite care, social support, counseling, and redistribution of caregiving responsibilities can make a meaningful difference. He also discusses when burnout becomes a patient-safety issue, and how family members can provide specific, practical help. Most importantly, they examine the misconception that burnout means you don't love the person you're caring for—and why protecting the caregiver is ultimately part of protecting the patient. 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 Show Notes: Dolly Parton, Country Singer Who Crossed All Party Lines, Dies at 80: https://newrepublic.com/post/214733/dolly-parton-crossed-party-linesDolly Parton, Country Music Legend, Dies at 80: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/25/arts/music/dolly-parton-dead.htmlDolly Parton Brought Music and Books to the World: https://www.npr.org/2026/08/25/nx-s1-5944449/dolly-parton-brought-music-and-books-to-the-worldHow Dolly Parton’s Literacy Work Affected Indigenous Communities in Australia: https://www.npr.org/2026/09/01/nx-s1-5950407/how-dolly-partons-literacy-work-affected-indigenous-communities-in-australiaDolly Parton Spoke About ‘Hard Times with My Health’ 4 Days Before Her Death (Exclusive): https://people.com/dolly-parton-spoke-about-health-hard-times-four-days-before-death-exclusive-12065830 (People.com)Dolly Parton’s Husband Carl Dean Died First, But His Cause of Death Was Never Released: https://www.mensjournal.com/news/dolly-parton-husband-carl-dean-died-first-cause-of-death-how-he-died (mensjournal.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Is Laughter the best medicine? We attempt to answer this and other pressing questions in Doctor Vs Comedian. Dr Asif Doja is a pediatric neurologist and Ali Hassan is a stand up comedian and actor (CBC‘s Laugh Out Loud, Designated Survivor, Goon) who are each fascinated by what the other one does. In each episode, Asif picks a topic for Ali from comedy and entertainment and questions Ali about it. Then Ali picks a topic from medicine and health and grills Asif on that subject.We talk about serious subjects in an unserious way. If you want to hear about comedy, entertainment, health and wellness and don‘t want to have to choose between being entertaining AND informed, then this show is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Channel
    Snack Labs
  • Creator
    Doctor Vs Comedian
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    286
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Doctor Vs Comedian

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