US comedian Akaash Singh has emerged as a distinctive voice in the crowded world of podcasting, offering a unique take on masculinity and therapy. As Singh prepares for his first tour of Australia with his live show Generational Triumph, he reflects on the unexpected role his podcast Flagrant plays in the evolving landscape of male discourse.
Co-hosted with fellow comic Andrew Schulz, Flagrant has garnered millions of downloads and views, making it a significant player in the podcasting realm. “There’s no other space for us to talk in any kind of therapeutic way. It’s not socially acceptable. That’s why these male podcasts all popped up,” Singh notes, echoing a sentiment shared by a guest on his show.
The Rise of Male Podcasts
Singh’s podcast, on the surface, follows the typical format of male-centric shows: casual settings, humor, and candid conversations. However, Singh distinguishes himself by openly discussing the benefits of therapy, a topic not commonly associated with the so-called “manosphere.” “By the time Flagrant started, I was a pretty big proponent of therapy. It was really life-changing for me… I’ve been in therapy for 10 years now,” he shares.
Despite this, Flagrant has been linked to the “manosphere,” a term often associated with online misogyny. Singh distances himself from this, criticizing the “red pill” ideology that often accompanies it. “I hope men just grow up and evolve,” he states.
Controversy and Comedy
Singh’s co-host, Schulz, has been a lightning rod for controversy, frequently criticized for his use of offensive language. The podcast’s guest list, featuring figures like Donald Trump and Jordan Peterson, further fuels debate. Yet, Singh’s own comedic style, showcased in his 2024 special Gaslit, challenges political correctness in a way that resonates with many. “We’re very free to say whatever we want. Your career isn’t affected,” Singh explains.
He acknowledges that older comedians might struggle with the changing cultural landscape. “There’s a couple. Not saying this as an insult, but it largely feels like guys who are probably a bit older, and they’re trying to navigate a world that has changed underneath their feet,” Singh observes.
The Evolution of Cancel Culture
Singh believes that the threat of cancel culture has diminished with the rise of internet careers. “When there was only movies and TV shows, you had to worry about cancellation. That is kind of gone,” he asserts. However, he notes that online backlash remains prevalent, as seen with his wife Jasleen’s experiences with her own podcast.
The dynamic of controversy and feuds, often staged for entertainment, has become a staple in the podcasting world. Singh and Schulz’s interactions with other shows, such as Bad Friends and Fresh & Fit, illustrate this trend. “If cancel culture has slipped into the wings, in its place is a parody that resembles professional wrestling’s kayfabe,” Singh comments.
Comedy as a Reflection of Society
Reflecting on the role of comedians, Singh dismisses the notion of comedians as saviors. “We speak truth to power? I never wanted to be one of those guys,” he says. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, comedians were seen as essential for providing relief, but Singh believes this perception has faded. “I think now people are realising comics are just as fallible as anybody else,” he concludes.
Singh’s journey from a pre-med student to a comedian defies traditional expectations, especially as a second-generation Indian-American. “You were supposed to be a doctor or an engineer,” he recalls. Despite initial resistance, Singh has carved out a successful career in comedy, with his upcoming Australian tour symbolizing his achievements.
Akaash Singh: Generational Triumph will be at Melbourne Recital Centre on February 8, Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane, on February 12, and Sydney’s Enmore Theatre on February 13.
