Episode Details

This week on the Strong New York Podcast, Kenny Santucci is joined by comedian, impressionist, actress, and media host Andrea Lopez. Andrea gained national recognition as a semi-finalist on NBC’s Bring The Funny and has built a following of over 700K fans, with her viral Kourtney Kardashian TikTok surpassing 15 million views. She also co-hosts the Big Wigs Podcast.

Kenny and Andrea discuss why more comedians are turning to fitness to manage anxiety, depression, and the mental grind of stand-up, as well as the importance of real community and connection in a post-pandemic world. Andrea also shares how her multicultural background and social media presence helped shape her career, her evolving goals from SNL to writing and producing, and what it takes to navigate internet fame.

00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro

00:28 Comedians and Fitness

01:52 Nicole and Community

04:55 Pandemic Connection

06:29 Roots and Culture

10:17 Comedy Dark Side

13:00 Fitness Journey and Cities

14:34 Mexican Food Debate

16:50 Impressions Origin Story

20:22 Career Goals and Writing

24:25 Comedian Rankings Game

29:31 Conspiracies and Comedy

32:11 Social Media Hustle

33:48 Legos to Content

34:29 Vulnerability Sells

35:30 Viral Fitness Absurdity

37:21 Comedy Grind Stories

40:34 Political Correctness

45:00 Offense and DMs

46:23 Skipping the Super Bowl

48:17 NYC Restaurants Rant

50:15 Where Else to Live

55:38 Sunshine vs Winter

56:44 Impressions Showcase

01:01:24 Names and Identity

01:04:42 Italian Identity Wrap