Episode 218

We've always suspected that the key to uniting our polarized nation may lie in our shared entertainment, and now we have definitive proof. It comes in the form of comedian Bobby Collins who has toured our nation and beyond, many times over, performing in states of every color, at USO and U.S. embassy shows abroad, and at political events for both parties. He comes to us with insights from the front lines.

Bobby prides himself on bringing his relatable and comforting brand of humor to increasingly divided audiences from one state and one venue to the next and he’s here to talk about how he navigates these politically perilous times, and he’s delivering road stories from touring with the biggest names to ever grace a stage!

Bobby's comedy career seemed predestined when his parents named him after Bob Hope. And Bobby was primed for the spotlight watching his parents’ joyful reaction to the comics who appeared on Ed Sullivan.

After a short detour ( as an executive at Calvin Klein!) he brought a date to the comedy club, Catch a Rise Star, and when she was ready to leave, he called her a cab and stayed to soak in more comedy. He began honing his craft there and was soon asked by the owner if he’d like to MC.

One night, a business card handed to him turned into an invitation to open for Cher. From there, he went on to tour with Frank Sinatra, Julio Iglesias, Tony Bennett and he tells us about his bumpy ride with Dolly Parton who reached out for forgiveness in her book!

Bobby does not shy away from 'doing' politics, but his material seeks our common humanity and gives voice to observations upon which we can all agree, replacing darkness and anger with the welcome recognition of our similarities. After shows, people often tell him how his act brought them much needed healing and comfort, arguably more crucial now than ever.

Also, was Sinatra a good tipper? Why did Cher make Bobby sweat? And how did Julio manage to truncate a dressing room visit from Donald Trump!?