# #80: Winnipeg Comedy Festival! Hulk Hogan! The Debaters!

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/mullinger-s-weekly-ramble-6818268/80-winnipeg-comedy-festival-hulk-hogan-the-debaters
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/mullinger-s-weekly-ramble-6818268/80-winnipeg-comedy-festival-hulk-hogan-the-debaters.md
Podcast: [Mullinger's Weekly Ramble](https://stenobird.com/podcast/mullinger-s-weekly-ramble-6818268)
Published: 2026-04-29T13:55:06+00:00
Episode link: https://share.transistor.fm/s/47f56cd5
Audio file: https://media.transistor.fm/47f56cd5/ecf8c79a.mp3
Processing state: not_requested
JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/mullinger-s-weekly-ramble-6818268/episodes/80-winnipeg-comedy-festival-hulk-hogan-the-debaters
Duration seconds: 3594

## Resource

Episode 80 finds James back on the mic less than 24 hours after returning from the whirlwind that was the Winnipeg Comedy Festival - exhausted, slightly delirious, but very much in full ramble mode. Fresh from a career milestone week, he takes us behind the scenes of performing on a major televised gala after years of trying to get booked, sharing the nerves, near-meltdown, and last-minute crisis of confidence. What follows is a rare moment of satisfaction as the set lands exactly as hoped - alongside a glimpse into the surreal machinery of big TV comedy: wardrobe teams, rehearsals, drivers, and the strange novelty of not having to do everything himself. There are stories from the road, including headlining Yuk Yuk’s for a mental health fundraiser, performing at the legendary Rumor's Comedy Club, and recording another episode of The Debaters, all while running on minimal sleep and maximum adrenaline. Elsewhere, the ramble veers into airport encounters with fellow New Brunswickers, the peculiar moment of returning home via Toronto and instantly knowing everyone again, the perils of late-night McDonald’s decisions, and his near-death steak-choking incident. There are punchy new jokes on Will Smith, Hulk Hogan, and the psychology of performers chasing big moments, plus thoughtful reflections on ambition, ageing, and choosing family time over relentless touring. As ever, it is chaotic, candid and deeply funny - a snapshot of a comedian riding the high of a huge career moment while already overthinking the next one. Mullinger's Weekly Ramble is brought to you by Podstarter Please send any questions to comedy@jamesmullinger.com For podcast advertsing and sponsorship opportunities, please email info@podstarter.ca

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## Transcript

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