Doctor Vs Comedian

Snack Labs
  • 5.0 (10)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

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. 16h ago

    Even Mark Twain Would Think Bill Maher Sucks (plus Cell Phones and Cancer)

    Recently, Bill Maher received the Mark Twain Prize for American humor. So today, Asif and Ali  give their thoughts on Maher (spoiler: they don’t like him) (1:40). They discuss their admiration for “Politically Incorrect” and the fallout for that show from Bill’s comments about 9/11. Then then go over his increasingly problematic views on libertarianism, the “Me Too Movement”, vaccines and Islam. Finally they discuss criticism of Mahr from Larry David, Ben Affleck, Bill Burr and Wanda Sykes.  Then  Ali asks Asif about the evidence about whether cell phones or Bluetooth devices cause cancer (25:15). Asif reviews the science behind radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, explains why they differ from cancer-causing ionizing radiation such as X-rays, and discusses why early concerns arose. He then goes over how the highest-quality evidence has found no convincing association between cell phone or Bluetooth use and brain tumors or other cancers. He then discusses why some earlier studies suggested an increased risk, how recall bias can influence results, what the "possibly carcinogenic" classification from the International Agency for Research on Cancer actually means, and why experts continue to monitor long-term exposures while concluding that the current evidence is reassuring. 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: Bill Maher: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_MaherLarry David: My Dinner With Adolf: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/21/opinion/larry-david-hitler-dinner.htmlA history of the Bill Maher's 'not bigoted' remarks on Islam: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/tvandradioblog/2014/oct/06/bill-maher-islam-ben-affleckJason Biggs, Bill Maher slammed for controversial tweets: https://globalnews.ca/news/1459574/jason-biggs-bill-maher-slammed-for-controversial-tweets/: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGrdzQevp4I7 Minutes of Bill Burr taking a dump on Bill Maher | Club random podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGrdzQevp4IBill Maher Says Christians Being ‘Systematically Killed’ In Nigeria: https://www.newsweek.com/bill-maher-christians-nigeria-10797095Wanda Sykes Claims Bill Maher Confronted Her About Golden Globes Joke, Calling It “Stupid”: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/bill-maher-confronted-wanda-sykes-golden-globes-joke-1236621435/Radiofrequency Radiation and Cancer: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/article-abstract/2786776?utm_source=openevidence&utm_medium=referralThe effect of exposure to radiofrequency fields on cancer risk in the general and working population: A systematic review of human observational studies - Part I: Most researched outcomes: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39241333/Is It Bad to Use a Laptop Right on Your Lap? https://time.com/article/2026/05/20/is-it-bad-to-use-laptop-right-on-your-lap/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min

  2. Jul 3

    Top 5 Spielberg films, plus “Alien Medical Conditions”

    This month, Steven Spielberg’s 35th feature film, “Disclosure Day” hit theatres. In honour of this Ali and Asif discuss their top 5 Spielberg films (after some inane banter about gift giving). (5:00) Listen to hear what the guys think about “Schindler’s List”, “Jaws”, “E.T.”, “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, “Munich” and "Jurassic Park”.  Then, since Disclosure Day is about aliens, in our medical section, the guys discuss two alien-like phenomena in medicine – alien hand syndrome and sleep paralysis (29:14), the latter of which has been implicated in so-called “alien abductions”.  Asif starts by explaining the neurobiology of Alien Hand Syndrome, including how disruption of brain networks involved in voluntary movement can cause a limb to perform seemingly purposeful actions outside of conscious control. He also reviews the major causes, clinical features, diagnosis, and current treatment approaches. Then they discuss sleep paralysis, discussing how REM sleep physiology can produce temporary paralysis, vivid hallucinations, and a perceived presence. They then go into detail  and explore the evidence that sleep paralysis provides a neurological explanation for many reported alien abduction experiences and examine how cultural beliefs influence the interpretation of these events.  As a bonus, Asif gives his spoiler filled thoughts on “Disclosure Day” (45:12) 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 Munich: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Munich_(2005_film)Death of a Hit Man: https://slate.com/culture/2005/12/steven-spielberg-s-munich.htmlSpielberg’s Munich courts controversy: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2006/1/1/spielbergs-munich-courts-controversyThe Best Movie About Israel and Gaza Now Came Out 18 Years Ago: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/23/opinion/israel-gaza-munich.htmlWho Really Directed Poltergeist? https://slate.com/culture/2026/06/poltergeist-steven-spielberg-horror-movie-tobe-hooper-director.htmlAlien hand syndrome: Pathophysiology, semiology and differential diagnosis with psychiatric disorders (Review): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10963944/Sleep Paralysis in Brazilian Folklore and Other Cultures: A Brief Review: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27656151/Hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations during sleep paralysis: neurological and cultural construction of the night-mare: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10487786/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min

  3. Jun 26

    99 Year Old Men (Mel Brooks) and Teenage Brains

    Today, Ali and Asif discuss the career of Mel Brooks and the recent documentary on his life and career “Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!” (1:25). The guys start off by discussing when they first started watching Mel Brooks and then go over how the documentary highlights some little known aspects of Brooks’ career.  They discuss his origins in comedy, his work with Carl Reiner and the ups and downs of his career. They also discuss how influential Brooks was as a producer, including promoting the careers of David Lynch and David Cronenberg.  Then the guys shift to the other end of the age spectrum and discuss teenage brains (29:01). They start off by discussing the misconception that teenagers as impulsive "risk machines; Asif corrects this assumption and discusses how neuroscience has helped us uncover what exactly is going on in the brains of teens. He discusses the brain changes that occur during adolescence and the concepts of myelination and pruning and the key brain areas involved – the prefrontal cortex and the limbic system. Asif expands upon risk taking and peer pressure in the teenage years and why youth may be more at risk for mental illness than adults.  Finally the guys discuss “warning signs” in teens and what parents and doctors can do to help guide teens through adolescence.  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:  Judd Apatow and Michael Bonfiglio on Making a Doc About Their Hero, Mel Brooks: https://www.thewrap.com/industry-news/awards/judd-apatow-michael-bonfiglio-mel-brooks-doc-interview/Judd Apatow on Mel Brooks, Interviewing Rob Reiner and What It’ll Take to Revive Studio Comedies: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/judd-apatow-interview-mel-brooks-99-year-old-man-hbo-1236482327/5 Takeaways From the HBO Documentary ‘Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!’ https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/23/arts/television/mel-brooks-the-99-year-old-man-documentary-hbo.htmlThe Amazing Teen Brain: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-amazing-teen-brain/What neuroscience tells us about the teenage brain: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/07/feature-neuroscience-teen-brainTeens aren’t just risk machines – there’s a method to their madness:https://theconversation.com/teens-arent-just-risk-machines-theres-a-method-to-their-madness-89439 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min

  4. Jun 19

    Discussing Grief and ‘Marty, Life is Short’

    Today, Asif and Ali discuss the documentary on Martin Short “Marty, Life is Short” (3:47). They discuss director Lawrence Kasden and what led him to make a documentary on his friend Martin Short. They discuss how the documentary not only goes over Martin Short’s career, but also discusses both grief and the “joy” of being friends with Martin Short.  Then the guys discuss the concept of grief and why “prolonged grief” can be considered a medical diagnosis (21:58). Asif starts off with some definitions as well as how to differentiate typical grief from prolonged grief. He goes over the criteria for prolonged grief as well as how it is treated. Finally, Ali asks Asif if you can “die of a broken heart”?  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 Why We Keep Putting Up With Martin Short: https://slate.com/culture/2023/09/martin-short-only-murders-in-the-building-season-3-snl.htmlTracy Morgan Slammed for Insulting Teachers Making Minimum Wagehttps://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/celebrity/articles/tracy-morgan-slammed-insulting-teachers-015956645.html‘Marty, Life Is Short’ Director Lawrence Kasdan On His Buddy Martin Short’s Major Talent And Secret Skill: “The Key Word Is Resilience”: https://deadline.com/2026/06/marty-life-is-short-interview-director-lawrence-kasdan-1236950618/Lawrence Kasdan’s Relationship with One of His Best Friends Yielded One of His Best Movies: https://www.indiewire.com/features/interviews/lawrence-kasdan-marty-life-is-short-1235195044/Martin Short and the Secret to Finding Joy While Surviving Tragedy: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/15/movies/martin-short-marty-life-is-short.htmlProlonged Grief Disorder: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMcp2308707Prolonged grief disorder: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40254022/WandaVision Episode Eight's Quote About Grief Has Become the Show's Defining Moment: https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/tv/a35713623/wandavision-episode-8-grief-quote-explained/Can You Really Die from a Broken Heart? Understanding Broken Heart Syndrome: https://www.ouhealth.com/blog/2025/february/can-you-really-die-from-a-broken-heart-understan/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min

  5. Jun 12

    Best of 2026 so far… plus a Chinese medical breakthroughs quiz

    Today, Ali and Asif discuss their favourite entertainment of 2026 to date (1:51). Listen as they discuss “Nivanna the Band, The Show, The Movie”, “It Was Just an Accident”, “Beef”, “Wonder Man”. “His and Hers”, “Margo’s Got Money Troubles”, as well as stand up specials by Wanda Sykes and Ramy Youssef. And as usual, Ali lists some of his must read books and Asif talks about new music from Noah Kahan and U2. Then, since Asif recently returned from China and Taiwan, on today’s episode, he gives Ali a quiz on Chinese medical breakthroughs.  The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations (31:51). 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min

  6. Jun 5

    Kids with Disabilities Using Computers With Their Minds? – Brain Computer Interface w/ Dr. Adam Kirton

    Today, Asif and Ali discuss something that seems closer to science fiction than reality –  using your brain waves to perform actions or communicate. They chat with guest Dr. Adam Kirton to discuss Brain Computer interface aka BCI. Dr. Kirton is Professor of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Calgary and an attending Pediatric Neurologist at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Dr. Kirton’s research focuses on applying neurotechnologies to generate new opportunities for life participation for children with severe disabilities. He directs the Calgary Pediatric Stroke Program (perinatalstroke.com) and ACH Brain Computer Interface Laboratory (BCI4kids.com).  He is the co-founder and chief medical officer of Possibility Neurotechnologies.  During their fascinating chat, the guys ask Dr. Kirton about how he became involved in BCI, how it works and what it can do. Dr. Kirton then goes over some touching and heartwarming stories about how this technology has helped children who would not otherwise be able to move or communicate. He discusses the need to start a company to “scale” the technology and where he sees this technology going in the future.  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: This app lets kids with disabilities use devices with their minds. Now anyone can download it: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/thecurrent/kids-disabilities-control-devices-with-brainwaves-app-9.7184114Eye Can Talk: https://eyecantalk.net/my-book/BCI4Kids: https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/research/pediatric-bci/BCI4KidsPossibiity Neurotechnologies: https://www.possneuro.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min

  7. May 29

    Can We Still Like Michael Jackson? Plus Propofol (Remix)

    TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses sexual abuse. Most of you have heard about the blockbuster success of the movie “Michael”. So today Ali  and Asif  discuss their thoughts on the resurgent popularity of Michael Jackson. Then we will “remix” in our conversation from 2024 discussion Jackson, his complicated legacy and his use of propofol. They start off by talking about Jackson’s early life (19:38), the success of the Jackson 5 and the abuse he  allegedly suffered at the hands of his father, Joe Jackson. They then discuss the success of his early solo records and the blockbuster success of ‘Thriller’. They also discuss his philanthropy and how that complicates people’s feelings for the singer. They then discuss the allegations of abuse against Michael Jackson and the 2019 documentary ‘Leaving Neverland’.  The guys then try to reconcile how despite the allegations, Michael Jackson songs are still played to this day.  Since Jackson died of a propofol overdose, in the second half, the guys discuss this drug (40:53). Ali and Asif start off by going through the timeline of Jackson’s death and discussing the other drugs that were in his system. They discuss how Jackson’s personal doctor, Conrad Murray, administered benzodiazepines and propofol to Jackson. Asif discusses what propofol is, what it is commonly used for and the potential adverse effects. He then goes into detail about how propofol needs to be closely monitored when it is administered.  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 Michael Jackson Made $1 Billion Since His Death: https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/how-michael-jackson-made-1-billion-since-his-death-957679/The Rise and Fall and Rise of Michael Jackson: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/14/magazine/michael-jackson-biopic-estate.htmlInside the ‘Michael’ Overhaul: $15 Million Reshoots, Removing Child Abuse Allegations and What’s in Store for Sequels : https://variety.com/2026/film/news/michael-movie-reshoots-removing-child-abuse-allegations-1236710221/The Resurrection of Michael Jackson: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/08/podcasts/the-daily/michael-jackson-film.htmlInside the Jackson machine: https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/jacksons-legacy-jackson-5Michael Jackson: A Quarter-Century Of Sexual Abuse Allegations: https://www.npr.org/2019/03/05/699995484/michael-jackson-a-quarter-century-of-sexual-abuse-allegationsSteven Tyler Confessed to ‘Crimes of Passion’ With a 16-Year-Old in His Own Memoir: https://www.vice.com/en/article/v7v54d/steven-tyler-child-sexual-assault-lawsuit-memoirTIMELINE: Michael Jackson's Final Dayshttps://abcnews.go.com/2020/MichaelJackson/michael-jackson-final-days-timeline-year-death-king/story?id=10974394Concerns mount over misuse of anaesthetic propofol among US health professionals: https://www.bmj.com/content/339/bmj.b3673Propofol and Green Urine: https://ekja.org/journal/view.php?doi=10.4097/kjae.2013.65.2.177Propofol-Induced Priapism, a Case Confirmed with Rechallenge: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1345/aph.1G555Michael Jackson’s doctor was much admired but financially strapped: https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2010-feb-08-la-me-conrad-murray8-2010feb08-story.htmlProbe Into Matthew Perry’s Acquisition of Ketamine That Led to His Death Has Multiple Suspects: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/matthew-perry-death-investigation-multiple-suspects-1235933163/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 4m

  8. May 20

    The Roast of Kevin Hart; plus Peptides!

    Today, Ali and Asif discuss ‘The Roast of Kevin Hart’ on Netflix (2:06). The guys go over host Shane Gillis and their thoughts on each of the roasters. They then discuss some of the controversies associated with the roast, including their thoughts on the sets of Tony Hinchcliffe, Pete Davidson and Katt Williams.  Then the guys discuss peptides (38:45). Ali asks Asif about what exactly they are and why they have become so hyped as of late. Asif then discusses what they are used for and in particular the peptides being used to support collagen and muscle recovery. Asif then talks about the lack of evidence for their use as well as the potential dangers. Finally the guys discuss the problems with using social media for medical advice.  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: WTF Kevin Hart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1UjSNAa6zMWTF Kat Williams: https://www.wtfpod.com/podcast/episode-1399-katt-williamsMichael Che Mocks White Writers: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/michael-che-mocks-white-writers-114531380Jeff Ross on the ‘Real Tension’ Behind the ‘Roast of Kevin Hart,’ His Favorite Cut Joke and Who He Wants to Skewer Next (EXCLUSIVE): https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/jeff-ross-roast-kevin-kart-cut-joke-1236745425/Kevin Hart vs Katt Williams beef explained: What happened and full timeline of their feud: https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/hollywood/kevin-hart-vs-katt-williams-beef-explained-what-happened-and-full-timeline-of-their-feud-101778545888263.htmlWhat to know about peptides for health: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326701#aboutPeptides: Types, Uses, and Benefits: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-are-peptidesWhat are peptides, are they safe and is there evidence to back up the hype? https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/apr/04/what-are-peptides-safety-wellness-products-onlineInjectable Peptide Therapy: A Primer for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Physicians: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41476424/Peptides Promise Health Benefits, But Do They Actually Work? https://www.nyp.org/healthmatters/peptides-promise-health-benefits-but-do-they-actually-workWhat do we know about ‘research only’ peptides? Q&A with expert Stuart Phillips : https://news.mcmaster.ca/what-do-we-know-about-research-only-peptides-qa-with-expert-stuart-phillips/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    55 min
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About

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
    270
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Doctor Vs Comedian

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