The 'Unexpected' Chat That 'Changed Everything' For Comedian Burt Kreischer

After years of disconnect, Bert Kreischer had a conversation with his "tough, old-school dad" that "changed everything."

The comedian appeared on the latest episode of iHeartRadio podcast, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, and opened up about constant battles with his inner critic, overcoming anxiety, chasing approval, the pressure to be funny, his mental health, parenting ups and downs, and "what it's like trying to stay grounded while raising two sharp, hilarious daughters who aren’t afraid to call him out," highlighting "vulnerability, self-doubt, and emotional growth."

Per the podcast summary:

"Bert shares what it was like growing up with a tough, old-school dad who believed in powering through pain and never showing weakness. That mentality helped shape Bert’s work ethic, but also left him carrying emotional weight for years. In one of the most touching moments of the episode, Bert shares how a simple, unexpected conversation with his dad, while they were both high on edibles, changed everything, helping them finally see each other clearly and connect on a deeper level."

"My dad is a great dad, but he's just like 'Hey. You don't f****** cry," Kreischer detailed after revealing that weakness was not welcome in their relationship. Then, one Easter, they shared a sincere and meaningful conversation about their connection over edibles.

"Everyone leaves, and it's me and my dad. High as crap. Really high. And then, I leaned over to him and I said, 'Why don't you like me?' And he just goes, 'I love you. You just make me uncomfortable.' He was like, 'I love you, but I'm afraid you're going to die.' And I said, 'Well I'm not going to die.' And he goes, 'You don't know that. I lost my dad when I was young, and I am terrified to lose you. And I don't understand you, I don't understand your lifestyle.'"

Kreischer let his father set up a cardiologist appointment for him after their chat, and all the tests came back fine.

"And I want to say from that day on, our relationship was so much smoother."

This episode teaches listeners:

• How to Stay Humble While Chasing Big Dreams
• How to Raise Kids Who Keep You Grounded
• How to Keep Showing Up Even When It's Hard
• How to Use Vulnerability as a Superpower
• How to Manage Anxiety Without Shame
• How to Turn Criticism into Growth
• How to Stay Grateful Through Every Stage of Success

Listen to the latest episode of On Purpose with Jay Shetty for the full scoop.