JRE #1789 – Tom Papa

by

8-Mar-22

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This podcast features comedian and writer Tom Papa, known for his popular podcast “Breaking Bread with Tom Papa” and his co-hosting role on Netflix’s “What a Joke with Papa and Fortune.” The episode delves into various topics ranging from amusing anecdotes to thought-provoking discussions on current events. Here’s a breakdown of some major themes:

Major Topics & Themes:

1. Tom Papa’s Bread Baking Prowess:

  • Tom Papa’s dedication to his bread-baking hobby is evident as he flew home from Colorado to feed his sourdough starter before bringing Joe Rogan a fresh loaf.
  • The episode opens with a humorous exchange about Rogan’s admiration for Papa’s bread, highlighting the personal touch and unique gift Papa brings to the podcast.
  • Papa’s passion for bread-making becomes a metaphor for his dedication to his craft and the joy he derives from creating something tangible.
  • The conversation about the bread’s aroma transitioning to the discussion of fentanyl smuggling is an unexpected and entertaining turn of events.

2. Fentanyl Smuggling:

  • The discussion of fentanyl smuggling unfolds with an anecdote about a pregnant woman caught at the border with fentanyl concealed in her vagina.
  • This topic highlights the dangers and complexities of the opioid crisis, particularly the potency and lethality of fentanyl.
  • The conversation delves into the absurdity and risk associated with smuggling fentanyl, questioning the desperation and motivations behind such actions.
  • The discussion touches upon the ethical dilemmas surrounding drug enforcement, particularly when it involves vulnerable individuals like pregnant women.

3. Airport Security and Passenger Behavior:

  • The conversation about Tom Papa’s bread-filled carry-on bag transitions into a broader discussion of airport security and passenger behavior.
  • The episode highlights the anxiety and frustration associated with airport security procedures.
  • The podcast features amusing anecdotes of people attempting to smuggle booze into concerts and the “amnesty bin” phenomenon at airports.
  • The topic delves into the contrasting experiences of different travelers, from those who feel entitled to special treatment to those who are simply trying to navigate a stressful environment.

4. The Pandemic’s Impact on Behavior:

  • The episode explores the social and psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the increased anxiety and tension that permeated society.
  • The podcast features anecdotes about heightened aggression towards people who don’t wear masks and the debate surrounding the efficacy of mask mandates in different environments.
  • The conversation touches upon the mental health consequences of prolonged lockdowns and the need for people to find ways to cope with stress.
  • The topic emphasizes the importance of resilience and the ability of human beings to adapt and overcome challenging circumstances.

5. Existential Crisis:

  • The podcast explores the concept of existential crisis and the feeling of being overwhelmed by the vastness of the universe and the challenges of everyday life.
  • The meme referencing the vastness of the galaxy and the act of crying in the shower before work serves as a humorous yet relatable illustration of this existential crisis.
  • The episode discusses the importance of focusing on smaller tasks and finding meaning in the “doing” as a way to combat the feeling of overwhelm.
  • The conversation acknowledges the difficulty of coping with major events and the role of individual resilience in navigating challenging times.

6. The Russia-Ukraine War:

  • The podcast delves into the complexities of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, analyzing Putin’s motivations, the potential consequences of nuclear escalation, and the impact of the conflict on the global landscape.
  • The episode expresses fear and concern about the situation, highlighting the precariousness of the geopolitical landscape and the potential for catastrophic consequences.
  • The conversation examines the difficulty of obtaining accurate information about the conflict and the dangers of misinformation and propaganda.
  • The podcast explores the human cost of war, emphasizing the devastating impact on civilians and the moral implications of conflict.

7. The Deep State:

  • The podcast delves into the concept of the “deep state,” the idea that unelected officials and powerful institutions hold significant sway over government decisions.
  • The conversation highlights the perceived disconnect between the elected president and the individuals who truly wield power.
  • The episode analyzes the role of intelligence agencies and the military in shaping foreign policy and influencing public discourse.
  • The discussion questions the transparency and accountability of powerful institutions and the implications for democracy.

8. The Power of Transformation:

  • The podcast discusses Christian Bale’s dedication to his craft, highlighting his remarkable ability to physically transform himself for different roles.
  • The conversation analyzes Bale’s commitment to method acting and the intense physical and mental preparation required for roles like Batman and Dick Cheney.
  • The episode highlights Bale’s talent for embodying diverse characters with authenticity and nuance.
  • The discussion examines the role of physical transformation in storytelling and the impact it can have on the viewer’s experience.

9. The Risks of Stunt Work:

  • The conversation explores the dangers of stunt work, highlighting the risks that stuntmen face in performing dangerous feats.
  • The podcast features anecdotes about Tom Cruise’s dedication to performing his own stunts and the serious injuries that stuntmen can sustain.
  • The episode discusses the ethical considerations surrounding stunt work and the potential for serious harm or even death.
  • The conversation raises questions about the motivations behind performing dangerous stunts and the potential for ego and adrenaline to drive reckless behavior.

10. The Impact of Injuries:

  • The podcast discusses the impact of injuries, particularly those sustained in combat sports and stunt work.
  • The episode features anecdotes about fighters who have suffered broken ribs, punctured lungs, and other serious injuries.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of proper recovery and the challenges of dealing with chronic pain.
  • The podcast explores the psychological effects of injuries and the need for individuals to find ways to manage both physical and mental pain.

11. The Appeal of Combat Sports:

  • The episode delves into the appeal of combat sports, exploring the thrill of competition and the adrenaline rush associated with watching fighters compete.
  • The podcast features anecdotes about the UFC and the upcoming fights in Phoenix and Vegas.
  • The conversation discusses the physical and mental toughness required to excel in combat sports.
  • The topic touches upon the cultural significance of combat sports and the role it plays in satisfying primal instincts and providing a venue for aggression.

12. The Importance of Diet and Exercise:

  • The conversation explores the importance of diet and exercise, particularly as individuals age.
  • The episode discusses the benefits of hormone replacement therapy and the use of peptides to enhance healing and recovery.
  • The podcast highlights the dangers of excessive exercise and the need for balance and moderation.
  • The conversation explores the relationship between diet, exercise, and mental health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

13. The Nature of Addiction:

  • The podcast explores the nature of addiction, examining the destructive power of gambling, alcohol, and even excessive exercise.
  • The episode features anecdotes about individuals who have struggled with addiction and the challenges of overcoming it.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of seeking help and the role of support systems in recovery.
  • The topic raises questions about the societal factors that contribute to addiction and the need for preventative measures.

14. The Dad Bod Phenomenon:

  • The episode delves into the debate surrounding the “dad bod,” exploring the question of whether women truly prefer men with less muscular physiques.
  • The conversation highlights the societal pressures men face to maintain a certain body image and the conflicting messages they receive from different sources.
  • The podcast questions the authenticity of surveys and the potential for men to be misled about women’s preferences.
  • The topic touches upon the complexities of body image and the need for men to embrace their individuality and reject unrealistic beauty standards.

15. The Metaverse:

  • The podcast discusses the potential of the metaverse, exploring the possibilities and challenges associated with virtual reality and augmented reality technologies.
  • The conversation highlights the potential for the metaverse to create new social interactions, entertainment experiences, and even economic opportunities.
  • The episode raises concerns about the potential for the metaverse to exacerbate existing inequalities and create new forms of social isolation.
  • The topic explores the ethical implications of virtual worlds and the potential for them to shape human behavior and societal norms.

16. The Importance of Animal Companionship:

  • The conversation explores the joy and emotional fulfillment that animal companionship can bring.
  • The podcast features anecdotes about Tom Papa’s love for his pug, Frank.
  • The episode highlights the unique bond that exists between humans and their animal companions and the therapeutic benefits of pet ownership.
  • The topic emphasizes the importance of recognizing the emotional needs of animals and providing them with love, care, and attention.

17. The Evolution of Comedy:

  • The podcast examines the evolution of comedy, exploring how societal norms and sensitivities have influenced the types of jokes that are acceptable.
  • The conversation discusses the challenges of creating comedic content in a world where political correctness and social media outrage are prevalent.
  • The episode highlights the importance of finding humor in the absurdity of human behavior and the need for comedic artists to push boundaries while remaining mindful of social context.
  • The topic raises questions about the future of comedy and the potential for it to adapt to changing societal values.

18. The Power of Storytelling:

  • The conversation highlights the power of storytelling, particularly the ability of narratives to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
  • The podcast features anecdotes about the impact of films like “American Werewolf in London” and “Wolf.”
  • The episode explores the role of special effects in creating believable and immersive experiences.
  • The topic emphasizes the importance of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world and the power of narratives to transport us to different places and times.

19. The Evolution of the Werewolf:

  • The podcast examines the evolution of the werewolf in film, highlighting the evolution of special effects and the changing aesthetic preferences of audiences.
  • The episode features a discussion of the “American Werewolf in London” and its influence on the werewolf genre.
  • The conversation explores the different approaches to portraying werewolves in film, from the classic creature feature to the more psychological horror.
  • The topic touches upon the cultural fascination with the werewolf and its enduring appeal as a symbol of primal instinct and transformation.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “You’re the only one I’ll eat bread from.” – Rogan’s declaration of his love for Tom Papa’s bread.
  • “Pregnant, drug runner, knabs, smuggling fentanyl in her vagina.” – Rogan’s comedic take on a shocking news story.
  • “I’m not group 1 by do this all the time.” – Rogan’s anecdote about a passenger trying to cut in line.
  • “I’m proud of you. I don’t know what you did, but you did it.” – Papa’s message of encouragement to those who navigated the challenges of the pandemic.
  • “You’ve gotta really hope that he doesn’t want to love Russia so much. He doesn’t want Russia to be obliterated.” – Rogan’s hope that Putin will not resort to nuclear war.



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