The Den Dialogues
The Den Dialogues is a long-form conversation series from The Den Theatre in Chicago, hosted by Den founder Ryan. S. Martin. Each episode brings Ryan together with comedians, performers, magicians, entrepreneurs, scientists, athletes, thinkers, and other fascinating people for conversations that go beyond the usual interview. The show explores creative work, unconventional careers, failures, ambition, obsession, risks, unexpected passions, and the strange paths that shape who we become. Relaxed, curious, funny, and occasionally unpredictable, The Den Dialogues is less about promoting what's next and more about discovering the person behind the work.
Lyle Drescher
S1 E05 | Host Ryan Martin sits down with comedian, content creator, and Therapy Gecko host Lyle Drescher to explore how a green gecko costume became an unlikely gateway to human connection. From his early days making YouTube videos and running underground comedy shows to finding viral success during the pandemic, Lyle shares the unexpected journey that turned a simple experiment into an international phenomenon. Along the way, they discuss his adventures interviewing strangers around the world, the surprising power of simply listening, creativity in the age of AI, and the challenges of living in the moment. Blending absurd humor...
Alex Edelman
S1 E04 | Host Ryan Martin sits down with comedian, writer, and Tony Award winner Alex Edelman to explore the craft of storytelling, the power of mentorship, and the people who help us find our way. From rollerblading to Fenway Park as a teenager to bringing Just for Us to Broadway, Alex reflects on the curiosity and persistence that shaped his creative life. This candid conversation touches on the loss of his friend and director Adam Brace, the friendships that keep him grounded, and his admiration for comedians who hold themselves to exceptionally high standards.
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Jonathan Kite
S1 E03 | Host Ryan Martin sits down with actor, comedian, and master impressionist Jonathan Kite, best known for playing Oleg on 2 Broke Girls, to explore the unpredictable journey of building a career in entertainment. From his early days in improv to working alongside Jamie Foxx, finding success in stand-up, and going viral with his Anthony Bourdain impressions, Jonathan shares stories about the experiences, friendships, and creative risks that have shaped his career.
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Creators & Guests
Carisa Hendrix
S1 E02 | Host Ryan Martin sits down with magician and performer Carisa Hendrix, the creative force behind Lucy Darling, to explore the world of magic, the art of character creation, and the winding road of building a career in entertainment. From taking big risks to finding her own unique style of performance, this candid conversation reveals the creativity, humor, and determination that go into bringing a character to life. Carisa shares stories from her journey, reflects on the relationship between art and technology, and explores how laughter, imagination, and a little bit of wonder can make the ordinary feel...
Anirban Dasgupta
S1 E01 | Host Ryan Martin sits down with comedian Anirban Dasgupta to discuss the world of stand-up comedy, the creative process, and the unpredictable journey of turning laughter into a career. This candid conversation explores the experiences, challenges, and unexpected moments that shape a comedian's life. Anirban shares his perspective on what happens when your passion becomes your profession, finding your voice on stage and navigating the highs and lows of the comedy world.
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Follow Anirban on: Instagram | YouTube
Creators & Guests
Anirban...