The Low Point with Matt Pena

The Low Point with Matt Pena

by Matt Pena

Comedy Interviews

Season 1

Bullied in Middle School - Ahri Findling (Episode 13)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with comedian Ahri Findling who opens up about being bullied in middle school — including a heartbreaking story about how the very people he thought were his closest friends turned on him in a moment of humiliation. Through humor, honesty, and reflection, Ahri and Matt explore how these early betrayals impacted Ahri’s ability to trust others, shaped his relationships, and even influenced the kind of father and man he is today. If you've ever struggled with trust, friendship, or finding your footing when you were young, this episode will hit home.

Blowtorch to the B*tthole - Chris DeSimone (Episode 12)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with childhood friend Chris DeSimone for a wild, heartfelt, and hilarious journey through their shared past and Chris' unexpected medical saga. From chlorine-soaked summers working at the town pool together to the chaos and camaraderie of Boy Scouts, the two reminisce about growing up together and the memories that shaped them. But the laughs give way to a deeper conversation as Chris opens up about his experience living with fibromyalgia—and the series of bizarre and painful medical events that followed. And yes, there is a story involving a doctor, a blowtorch, and a body part no one ever wants near open flame.

Growing Up Without a Dad - Gabe Corser (Episode 11)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with comedian and musician Gabe Corser for a raw, hilarious, and moving conversation about grief, creativity, and growing up too fast. Gabe opens up about losing his father at just eight years old—how that loss shaped him, and how he turned pain into art, music, and comedy that connects so many people. This episode is funny and heartbreaking, filled with genuine moments that will leave you laughing one minute and teary-eyed the next. It’s a powerful look into the life of someone who’s taken life’s low points and turned them into something beautiful. Don’t miss this episode that reminds us all how humor and heart go hand in hand.

Night Out Turned Dark - Kelly Taylor (Episode 10)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with comedian Kelly Taylor. Kelly opens up about one of the darkest moments in her life—when a night out with friends took a terrifying turn. After being unknowingly drugged, she woke up alone in a bar bathroom, confused and scared. In this deeply honest conversation, Kelly shares the emotional aftermath of the experience, including her struggles with depression and anxiety. She talks about how therapy became a turning point in her healing journey and how it ultimately helped her reclaim her voice—both on stage and in life. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength it takes to confront trauma and the hope that can come from reaching out for help.

Adjusting to College Life - Brian Elberg (Episode 9)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with comedian Brian Elberg to dive into the struggles of adjusting to college life after high school. From awkward dorm encounters to running into old "friends" on campus, Brian shares his personal low points with the same humor that’s gotten him through it all. Plus, we take a detour into his deep love for Bruce Springsteen—because nothing says "coming-of-age crisis" quite like blasting Born to Run. Whether you're in college, survived it, or ran for the hills, this episode is packed with laughs, relatability, and a little bit of The Boss.

Stillbirth - Liz Glazer (Episode 8)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with comedian Liz Glazer for a deeply personal and powerful conversation about grief, resilience, and finding humor in life’s hardest moments. Liz opens up about her experience with stillbirth, sharing how the tragedy has shaped her perspective and how she’s navigated the complexities of loss. She also takes us through her journey from law professor to professional comedian, reflecting on how her family and career intertwine with her healing process. It’s an honest, heartfelt discussion about love, loss, and the ways we cope—both on and off the stage.

Creative Struggles - Katherine Duffy (Episode 7)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with comedian, actor, and storyteller Katherine Duffy to talk about the struggles, setbacks, and lessons learned while writing, producing, and performing her one-woman show, Katherine Duffy Live at Trixie’s. Katherine shares the highs, the lows, and the unexpected turns that made the process as chaotic as it was rewarding. Join us as we dive into the realities of solo performance, the challenges of self-producing, and the resilience it takes to keep pushing forward—because sometimes, the lowest points make for the best stories.

Surviving School - Jamell Sirleaf (Episode 6)

On this episode of The Low Point with Matt Pena, comedian Jamell Sirleaf opens up about the struggles he faced growing up in Florida’s school system—where teachers didn’t just fail to support him but actively made his journey harder. From experiencing racism to dealing with educators who seemed determined to hold him back, Jamell shares how these moments shaped him and fueled his drive to succeed. Tune in for a raw, eye-opening conversation filled with honesty, resilience, and of course, a touch of humor.

Tony in Philly - Tony Ferraro (Episode 5)

In this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with improviser, sketch comedian, and childhood friend Tony Ferraro for a conversation living alone in Philadelphia after college

Love, Loss, and Chasing Dreams - Dave Columbo (Episode 4)

On this episode of The Low Point, Matt sits down with comedian Dave Columbo to discuss the most difficult chapter of his life. When Dave’s mother was diagnosed with cancer, he put everything on hold—leaving his life in Los Angeles to move back home to Florida and be with her and his fiancée. After his mother’s passing, Dave faced a crossroads: stay in the comfort of home or return to LA to chase his dream.

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