02 Apr 2026
2h 22m

Atsuko Okatsuka: Can You Ever Really Go Home Again?

Podcast cover

What Now? with Trevor Noah

Trevor Noah interviews comedian Atsuko Okatsuka, exploring her journey into comedy and her unique perspective on life. Atsuko recounts her childhood experiences, including being raised in Japan and Taiwan, her mother's schizophrenia, and unexpectedly moving to the United States at age eight. They discuss the cultural differences between Japan and America, particularly regarding work ethic and societal expectations. Atsuko shares her experiences working at Cold Stone Creamery after obtaining her green card and reflects on finding her comedic voice later in life. The conversation also touches on the pressures of success, the importance of personal growth, and the challenges of balancing artistic expression with societal expectations.

Outlines

Part 1: True Crime, Culture, and Travel

Part 2: Family History and Personal Origins

Part 3: Beliefs, Community, and Lifestyle

Part 4: Comedy Roots and Creative Process

Part 5: Philosophy, Identity, and Growth

Part 6: Heritage, Art, and Leisure

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