Bob Odenkirk: Don’t Give Up Hope

Bob Odenkirk (Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, Mr. Show) opens up about his recent near-death heart attack and the perspective it gave him, how he channels his fear, anxiety, and anger into his comedy, and how imposter syndrome has fit into the arc of his career. He breaks down the shame instilled into him throughout his Catholic upbringing, what it was like to watch his friends find fame before he did, and navigating his work ethic while still being around for his kids. Bob discusses the significance of the Hollywood strikes and the origins of his new book of poems he made with his kids. Bob’s daughter Erin joins the Breakdown to describe the creative process of working with her dad.
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NOTE: This episode was recorded before the Israel-Hamas conflict. Our hope is that MBB can be a positive distraction from what's going on in the world.
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Twitter: / mrbobodenkirk
Instagram: / therealbobodenkirk
Bob Odenkirk's new book, Zilot & Other Important Rhymes: a.co/d/7fDttFa
Theme Song Written, Produced, and Performed by Ed Robertson. Mixed by Kenny Luong.
#MayimBialik​​​ #BialikBreakdown #BobOdenkirk #BreakingBad #BetterCallSaul

[@gpeddino]

Still rooting for him to get an Emmy for BCS. His performance was amazing.

[@She_sews_in_her_pyjamas]

He was brilliant in Fargo too

[@piccolotakesall]

Despite what his “justified impostor syndrome” says, no one deserves it more. 💖

[@vaskylark]

He stole every scene he was in on Breaking Bad. He immediately became my fave character and how did that happen? He plays the sleazy lawyer haha He was so polished and hilarious it came off so natural, not forced so it didn't surprise me when I found he had a long history of comedy and Breaking Bad was the vehicle to launch him into superstardom and he deserved every bit of it.

[@m_brokenleg]

Few things regarding today’s episode: 1) Such a masterclass about Impostor Syndrom 2) Bob’s face while satying behind his daughter Erin at the room speaks volumes about how proud & grateful he is of her, her work, their collaboration & their family. 3) Mayim’s “we are Human Beings, not Human Doings” resonates so deeply in me while Bob speaks about his work ethics & his almost faral heart attack. 4) So glad to have Jonathan back at studio..even if he’s accompanied by that bit disturbing mask behind him. 5) I hope you can have this unique podcast I need so much & watch religiously every week soon. Since then, try to have peace of mind & stay strong!💙💙

[@EveryHandleIsTaken979]

He can give a masterclass in acting and in imposter syndrome, lol! Can you picture ANYONE else portraying Sal Goodman one fifth as well? I didn’t know he was also a comedy writer, but I’m not surprised as he has excellent comedic timing and obvious intelligence.

[@nicolewilliams2468]

Goodness, he seems so normal & humble. What a beautiful interview, especially with Bob & his daughter together. I loved it! ❤😊❤

[@christinemiller5360]

I love when you interview truly "good" people! He's a shining example! Can't wait to see him on the next "Finding Your Roots!"

[@piccolotakesall]

Me, too! I’ve been waiting soooo long since he first mentioned months ago that he’d be on it! 😁😁😁✨

[@elizabethschreiber55]

Mayim.. I am praying for world peace. I can not find words.

[@ili626]

She’s not. She’s been completely brainwashed since childhood

[@Heene1028]

Truly one of the most talented… thoughtful … thoroughly charming and totally amusing people to ever walk this earth. As my 7 year old nephew said to my father, after HIS heart surgery…. “Grandpa, I am glad you’re not Dead!”❤🙏 And, Erin is an extraordinary artist. LOVE seeing the 2 of them working together ❤️

[@dandoesntknowsstuff1769]

The obvious love for his daughter that Bob is radiating during the end of the ep where he's standing behind her is absolutely wrecking me right now.

[@josephsweeney4411]

So enlightening to hear Bob openly discuss his life struggles and triumphs, especially the impact of his Catholic upbringing and health issues. His resilience and adaptability is truly inspiring.

[@e.c.squared2507]

Amy Farrah Fowler and Jimmy McGill are two of my all time favorite TV characters. Needless to say I’ve never clicked on a video faster!

[@JoanneWhitlock]

I self published my books and was really surprised to see my daughter become that person who says she could right a book when when I was younger that would’ve been a crazy thing for me to think. She was only six or seven but still talks about writing books as an option for her.

[@amystancuna2560]

I did not want this interview to end! It was fascinating hearing Bob Odenkirk speak about imposter syndrome. I’d love to hear more about his character development and becoming famous. Thank you Mayim and Jonathan for sharing this with us!

[@KristinM626]

So good to see Jonathan back in studio again. While the recent solo-Mayim episodes are great, there’s a different energy when Jonathan’s around. Thanks for another thought-provoking start to my Tuesday

[@archaprice3372]

I like Jonathan with you for the podcast, you do well flying alone, but Jonathan adds so much.

[@nadiasegovia3746]

Mr. Odenkirk if you only know that your comedy and books and the drama and every single work of yours....it is just an honour to have you in this planet. the greatest man you are thank you for inspired me and for all the laughs and the intelligence.

[@Heene1028]

Love the laundry in the corner…. Ultimately, in a most turbulent profession…. Bob and Naomi raising such a “normal” family

[@DrVVVinK]

He mentioned before Breaking Bad how he almost lost his home because the jobs weren't coming (or as frequently), and he could not pay his mortgage. He seems to be very humble in this interview about his success.

[@orland0110]

Thank you so much for having Bob Odenkirk on this episode. Your videos are wonderful. You are the best Mayim! ❤

[@karlamalpica2211]

Love this person!!! Amazing Amazing Amazing actor

[@shevawnprather7162]

I loved Bob in Breaking Bad, he was such a key player and the first time seeing him. Excellent as well in Better Call Saul. We need more series like these, no agenda, just a story that one can get lost in. Bob is a great and unique actor!

[@OWR0406]

One of the greatest actors and human beings to walk this earth. Bob is just great.

[@josievaccaro]

His extraordinary in all ways as an actor and as a person and as a dad ❤

[@marisamartinezolivera]

Dearest Mayim, I can perfectly understand that you stop broadcasting new episodes. I was even expecting it. You looked so terribly sad at your last IG videos. We all could see your pain, suffering and inner turmoil. But we do know your compassionate heart, so you could never look “insensitive” to us. I do hope though, that if this terrible war continues longer than expected, this podcast be back on with probably the hardest to be shot episodes. The opposite would mean that Hamas would, in some way, win achieving one of its satanic goals: to alter dramatically the normal lives of those of us that don’t support them and think of them as abject terrorists. God bless you all and give you much needed comfort. Take care. Selfprotect yourselves. And as this terrific new episode title says : DON’T GIVE UP HOPE! Hugging you all dearly from the distance. 💙🤍💙

[@piccolotakesall]

This was really lovely. Thank you for listening well and seeing well. It was so powerful to hear your theory about how Bob’s “late blooming” was really the world and industry finally aligning with who *he* was. Thank you for speaking this into him (and us). I hope he’s taken it to heart. I know I have. 💖

[@Billigs]

Beautiful dream to publish a book for your kids, for then when they were kids. Time traveling through memory. ❤

[@katiehanson6253]

You two , after the interview, are cute as can be... and to the odenkirks be blessed... what a lovely way to share your life to generations to come! loved this ❤❤

[@Vlatka211]

It's poetic how Bob thinks he didn't deserve part of Jimmy, and that's exactly what Jimmy would think and that's the reason he is the best actor for the part.

[@marie-clairedelongchamp1330]

I’m sorry to say I was never introduced to this Actor before « Breaking Bad », which is why I was so pleased when he starred in « Better Call Saul » (I binge watched both series in a short time) Wonderful body of work! 👏👏👏👏. The minute I saw him in a movie role, I instantly watched « Nobody » on Netflix. 👏👏👏👏Again!! Needless to say my excitement when you interviewed him! Thank you all you wonderful people 🥰

[@BirdNerdJC]

Thank you bob and your daughter for taking time to share your life and thoughts. It makes sense how your acting roles touched people so deeply, because you are an amazing hard working, humble, good person in real life. This true character shines through in your parts and makes people relate on a deep personal level. Best vibes for finding flow and meditation.

[@cindystauffer3242]

One of the most humble actors in Hollywood! He great in everything he does!

[@CutieWarrior-ol8ik]

You adressed some of my deepest, secret fears. It was a relief. Thanks

[@heldermoreira8554]

Always though that Bob Odenkirk would be a very nice person, thanks for showing me he really is, wonderfull job from you both, kisses from Spain !...

[@sandrasalas9813]

His an inspiration

[@crystinamarie1]

He was so great in Better Call Saul. That show was amazing. When given the opportunity he really can give quite a dramatic performance. I really hope to see him in more roles like that.

[@SusanMoore]

My brother and I absolutely loved this episode and the wealth of wisdom in it. Thank you so much for holding this interview. Gave us a lot to reflect on and, one thing that occurred to us, is that - growing up - it seemed that the adults and people that had a kind of hand in raising us had this tendency of skipping over the "giving hope and encouragement" part and going straight to the criticisms and critiques before either of us would get our thoughts out. And we know that we're definitely not alone or unique in being raised with that kind of mindset and wonder if that's why so many people out there have that doubt in their own abilities. Not just in the creative/entertainment world but in every day normal jobs. For example, I'm in the running as a cook in a restaurant. I'm pretty excited by that and shared this goal with my extended family. Already I'm being met with these goals being criticized and everything. Being that I'm older now, I can definitely recognize it when it happens a lot better than when I was a kid and will be going for this particular goal because I love to cook. Guess what I'm saying is, is that sometimes the only one that can give you that hope/encouragement is going to be yourself if you really want to do something when you're first starting out. Maybe, along the way, you can meet people out there that will be rooting for you and helps to drown out the negativity and the voices that fuel Imposter Syndrome.

[@piccolotakesall]

It’s interesting to hear him talk on this subject so soon after your podcast, right??? And yeah, I think (at least based on my experience), that it’s natural (and possibly a self-preservation tactic) to critique an idea first. Because it could save the person from failure or humiliation… but in the long run, we see that it kills creativity, passion, and drive. I’ve had to learn to intentionally hold back questions and critique with those I’m close to for the very reasons Bob expressed. Sometimes my reaction needs to take into consideration how the person *feels* about the idea, artwork, project, job, etc and not be just an objective reaction. Anyway, I’m rambling. But I really enjoyed this conversation. 💖

[@SusanMoore]

@@piccolotakesall I know, right? The timing is pretty mind-blowing to me. I did like 4 different versions of that entire episode before I released what you guys got to hear simply because of how angry I came across in the other versions. It does kill that passion and creativity level (least wise from my point of view). Like my brother, right? He's started getting interested in writing his own stories and things now and asks questions about it. I tell him he can totally do it but that first draft is just a brain dump session. The real fun is going to come after editing the hell out of it a thousand times. And for real. I loved this interview and conversation with Mayim, Jonathan, Erin and Bob so much. Jam packed with so much wisdom and encouragement. 💖💖 I will say though they made me jump when Erin sat at the desk at that one point. Took me by surprise lol I was like - damn, that came out of nowhere. 🤣🤣

[@piccolotakesall]

@@SusanMoore Ha! I knew they had to change something up with all that noise outside during her first question!!! 😆

[@EveryHandleIsTaken979]

Like many, I was captivated by Bob’s performance as Sal Goodman. I’d never really seen him in an interview or anything in real life and I’d hoped I’d like him if I did. I’m glad I do!

[@carenburmeister5002]

I enjoyed this so much! Thanks for consistently producing such a wonderful show.🙏🏻

[@chrisstecher]

Thank You for THIS!

[@lisal2017]

Excellent interview. Bob is lovely and it’s wonderful he worked on this book with his daughter. Also appreciative of his work and support of striking writers and actors.

[@luannianke8110]

What a talented, interesting family. Excellent interview.

[@lindarock3946]

Thanks for this interview. Heart warming. ❤️

[@licyortiz22]

He’s so talented and humble I love him

[@annegpr]

I love this interview as much as I love Jonathan's nails 😁 Thank you for bringing back the last part. I always love to hear your reflection about every discussion with your guests. Stay safe guys!! 🫶🤍

[@DBYouTubeHandle]

Slippin’ Jimmy, it’s all good man!✨

[@rrussell9731]

Dear writers, please educate the public, the consumers of the entertainment you help to create, on what you do, and your role in the creative process. I've heard, "If it ain't on the page, it ain't on the stage." That helped me appreciate what you do. Most of us who aren't connected to the entertainment industry just consume the product, and maybe think about the actors on the screen, but that's as far as our appreciation goes. If we understood more about what you do, you're creating the words an actor presents, we would have a better appreciation for you and demand the industry respect and pay you. So please help us out and educate us. Maybe brag a little.

[@altaresjoyceee]

Im really glad I saw this episode. Watching and listening to them is truly fantastic. The book is also excellent! It's good to see Jonathan back. I like all of his insightful ideas 😊 I know its something outside of the episode, but I just wanted to say to Miss Mayim that.. thank you for doing all of this, i saw her latest update on IG, i know its not easy right now but everything is gonna be fine. I also wanted to say that i love you and i support you in all that you do 😊 Please take care always. 🫶🏻 Praying for all the people and for peace 🙏🏻

[@MayimBialik]

🫶

[@altaresjoyceee]

​@@MayimBialikwe love you 🫶🏻❤

[@meo21626]

Such great insights, thank you!

[@Mercurychyld1]

He is ABSOLUTELY phenomenal…I ADORE him, I will watch anything he is in…same for Mayim. You are both among the very best. Thank you for being and just sharing yourselves with us. God bless. ☺️🌹🙏🏽 Also, yes, that strike really affected many; my younger brother is in that ‘behind the scenes’ business…he is hurting financially. Now PLEASE get back to work! Thank you.

[@matiaspereira9382]

I honestly know Bob Odenkirk as the voice of Winston from The Incredibles 2. I never actually watched Breaking Bad or Better Call Saul. I was really worried about him when I read about his heart attack. Also Craig T Nelson from Young Sheldon was with Bob Odenkirk in The Incredibles 2 and Kevin Sussman (Stuart in Big Bang Theory) was in an episode of Better Call Saul. I really miss you as Amy, Mayim! Keep your good job! You're my favorite actress ever! Please invite Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki and Kaley Cuoco to your podcast!

[@jobethk588]

Great interview.

[@violetflame88]

Yay! Johnathon's back. I love you and your podcast Mayim but I miss Johnathon and your back and forth when he is not there.

[@mastiffpeople4868]

Great advice man

[@susanb217]

Wonderful Video!!

[@Semper_Iratus]

Thank you 👍

[@kkey4700]

This show is great! It never disappoints ❤ loved the show today and I’m going to read Zilot!

[@TattooedGranny]

Lovely show.❤

[@miliesomethingdo4379]

Love love love! Everyone is magic enough to write a book 🤎🤎🤎

[@viancabasas9856]

Oh wow, this episode hits so close to home. As someone who’s a fresh graduate, I really don’t know what career am I going to pursue and I am currently feeling that I have an impostor syndrome. I feel so seen; the feeling of trying to fit into the society and that moment when you need to look for a job and send your resumes even though you don’t know if you can do the actual job? Gosh. Thanks for having bob odenkirk! He’s full of wisdom. 🫶🏻

[@Bob-po2dp]

1:04:09 Jesus that jumpscared me lmao 🤣🤣 “Could be a bit overbearing” while he’s looming right over her. Great bit lol

[@archaprice3372]

Good interview!

[@claire-christmas-august73]

one of my favourite humans.! thank you for sharing. ☺️😊 ✌🏻🇦🇺🌏🤘🏻

[@mcg6275]

This was an interesting interview and Bob and Mayim are brave beings. However, as a Catholic in his age bracket, I am tired of Catholicism getting a bad wrap on shamefulness and many other topics/concepts. I was fortunate to have parents that were ahead of their time and very involved in the Church and did not raise me that way in the faith and I did not raise my daughter that way. I'm sorry others had that experience. But overall great interview. And a big THANK YOU for posting this podcast in light of recent events. I can't imagine what you are feeling or going through. Prayers.

[@maxi_wox]

Два моих любимых сериала собрались вместе. BB and the BBT. Love you so much!

[@lorrainelf1712]

Watching from Costa Rica 🇨🇷 😊

[@jamielc3437]

He seems like a cool guy

[@ThaisNunesYoutuber]

That i'm gonna watch it

[@pauletteladouceur7261]

love im so! wonderful being!

[@daniellekramer93]

Talk to Jeff Dunham next. You should talk to him. I love him.

[@veronicamozee]

Someone is writing a memoir with my memories. Idk who.

[@mastiffpeople4868]

His college is right up the road from me, so yes Corn fed for sure

[@ashleybeasley5429]

Speaking of 1940's Bronx listen to these radio adds!!!😅

[@DBYouTubeHandle]

I LOVED the sad ending, did he still get ice cream included? Kick him out for good behavior. I loved him & Kim. Great acting between them.

[@piccolotakesall]

No, Jimmy/James didn’t get the mint chip ice cream. That was part of the deal he won, but gave it all up, when he fully told the truth about his criminal involvement with Walt and his not technically criminal behavior with Chuck. 🥺

[@YardsaleDale-1]

Saul Goodman giving advice

[@aslamiyamohamed2526]

Excited to watch this! ❤ I’ve been looking for more interviews from Bob thank you

[@michellealdrich]

Amazing. No notes. Off to find transcript 💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼

[@MayimBialik]

😲

[@tomlichnofsky.7048]

You Better Call Saul!! 👍👌😊👊✊😆🎃🍁🎃

[@wrenpalmR]

It would be great to see an interview with some of the 7th Heaven cast...

[@christinesummers3797]

I feel so terrible that he was told to be ashamed of who he was as a Catholic. I was taught that we are God's children. My faith was and is always a sense of comfort, belonging and specialness.

[@rrussell9731]

Go Salukis!

[@kingdavid7871]

Damn

[@luksay1454]

💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@sam-wise777]

Can you please interview Britney Spears about her new book "The Women In Me"?

[@josievaccaro]

I was denied my identity moving from Africa to Italy, so the imposter syndrome kicked in until now when it is clear who the hypocrits are... the pain unbearable... like I wasn't allowed to be me or else... wouldn't recommend

[@hulkhatepunybanner]

*At **1:04:10**, Erin talks about her dad being overbearing at times, AS HER DAD stands behind her with arms folded looking at her with his head tilted to one side.* And I say, _aah._

[@simonagree4070]

I want to like Mayim so much. I try so hard. She is smart. And entertaining. What holds me back? Could it be that her posts are sooo looong... and sooo draaawn out? Sooo paaadded? What is going on here?! I don't have an hour and a half for this.

[@bethmiller6827]

You can speed up the playback.

[@davidmasferrer2164]

Saul Goodman??

[@katherenewedic8076]

if you're laughing at the clown, pay them.

[@DrVVVinK]

101 comment

[@katherenewedic8076]

the alterior motive is that any labor should be slave and serfdom

[@malako777A]

I wonder if Seinfeld doesn't have impostor syndrome because of another mental issue... like narcissism, maybe? lol

[@eeee2641]

?Mayim when are you going to do an interview with Neil deGrasse Tyson? 😊