JRE #1685 - Shane Gillis

21-Jul-21

Joe Rogan Podcast #1685 – Shane Gillis Topics

This podcast features comedian Shane Gillis discussing his life, career, and thoughts on various topics, including his experiences living with fellow comedian Stanhope, the nature of comedy and free speech, the rise of cancel culture, and his perspective on the world. Underlying themes explore the value of honesty and vulnerability, the importance of context and nuance in humor, and the complexities of navigating the modern social landscape.

1. Stanhope’s “Neverland Ranch” in Bisbee, Arizona:

Gillis lived with Stanhope in a guest house in Bisbee, Arizona for a month.
The town is described as a former mining town filled with old mine shacks, attracting hippies from California.
Stanhope was essentially the “mayor” of the town, often spending his days going to the grocery store and engaging in podcasts.
Gillis’s experience with Stanhope was generally positive, despite occasional “nasty” moments, highlighting the unique bond between comedians.

2. Comedy and the “Talking Shit” Dynamic:

Gillis and Rogan discuss the concept of “talking shit” in comedy, acknowledging its significance and the importance of understanding context.
They highlight the difference between honest expressions and ridiculous jokes made for entertainment purposes, emphasizing the absurdity of taking comedic statements literally.
They criticize comedians who engage in virtue signaling, arguing that genuine comedians should embrace the freedom to express themselves, even through provocative humor.
This discussion explores the tension between humor and social responsibility, highlighting the delicate balance required for effective comedy.

3. The Importance of Freedom and the “Jewish Amish” Experience:

Gillis and Rogan discuss Ari Shaffir’s unique perspective on freedom, highlighting his willingness to break free from traditional constraints.
They delve into Shaffir’s upbringing in a strictly religious Jewish community, where he spent 12 hours a day studying the Talmud and engaging in chores.
Shaffir’s eventual decision to leave this community showcases his bold personality and his strong desire for independence.
This discussion explores the complexities of religion, tradition, and personal freedom, highlighting the courage it takes to challenge ingrained beliefs.

4. The “Drip” of Walmart Polo and Golf Shirts:

Gillis and Rogan engage in a humorous conversation about Gillis’s distinctive attire, particularly his love for Walmart polo shirts.
Gillis describes his outfit as “the drip,” showcasing a playful and self-aware attitude toward fashion.
They discuss the varying perceptions of golf shirts and the potential for unconventional style, highlighting the humor in defying societal expectations.
This lighthearted segment explores the intersection of fashion, humor, and personal expression, illustrating the power of individuality.

5. The “Wild” Nature of Ari Shaffir and His South American Adventure:

Gillis shares anecdotes about Shaffir’s adventurous spirit, describing him as a “wild motherfucker” who embraces new experiences.
He recounts Shaffir’s decision to move to South America during the pandemic, embracing a spontaneous and unpredictable lifestyle.
Gillis contrasts Shaffir’s wanderlust with his own preference for routine and comfort, highlighting the different paths comedians can take.
This discussion delves into the allure of adventure and the courage it takes to break free from societal expectations, showcasing the varied personalities within the comedy world.

6. The Virtues of “Moly” and Personal Preferences:

Gillis and Rogan engage in a discussion about their respective preferences for psychedelics, with Rogan expressing a preference for solitude during these experiences and Gillis highlighting his enjoyment of social settings.
They acknowledge the individual nature of psychedelic experiences, emphasizing the subjective nature of these altered states of consciousness.
This conversation delves into the complexities of personal preferences and the diverse ways in which individuals experience the world, highlighting the unique perspectives within the comedy community.
They touch upon the potential for both positive and negative experiences with psychedelics, acknowledging the need for caution and understanding.

7. The Impact of Defunding the Police and the Rise of Crime:

Rogan expresses his skepticism towards defunding the police, citing the rise of crime in cities like Austin, Texas, as evidence of its potential drawbacks.
He argues that the lack of adequate policing can lead to a decline in public safety, citing personal anecdotes from friends who have experienced crime in Los Angeles.
The conversation explores the complex relationship between crime, social policy, and public safety, highlighting the diverse perspectives on these issues.
Rogan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between personal freedoms and community safety, prompting listeners to consider the multifaceted nature of these issues.

8. The Controversial Punching Incident Involving Rick Moranis:

Gillis and Rogan discuss the incident where Rick Moranis was punched in New York City, highlighting the rise of violence and the fear it creates.
They speculate about the attacker’s motivations, suggesting that the incident could be connected to a toxic political climate and rhetoric surrounding race and social justice.
The conversation delves into the complex issues of violence, social unrest, and the sense of vulnerability that people are experiencing in urban environments.
They touch upon the potential dangers of unchecked rhetoric and the importance of fostering a culture of respect and understanding.

9. The “Sneak Shot” and the Impact of Fear:

Gillis and Rogan analyze the video footage of the Moranis incident, speculating about the attacker’s actions and the victim’s lack of response.
They discuss the impact of the incident on the victim, highlighting the sense of fear and vulnerability that many people are experiencing in public spaces.
They delve into the changing dynamics of urban environments and the potential dangers that accompany the rise of crime and violence.
The conversation prompts listeners to consider the importance of personal safety and the need for proactive measures to combat crime and foster a sense of security.

10. The SNL Debacle and the Experience of “Cancel Culture”:

Gillis recounts his experience with “cancel culture” following his casting on SNL, describing it as a surreal and unsettling experience.
He discusses the rapid escalation of the situation, highlighting the power of social media and the intensity of online discourse.
Gillis emphasizes the impact of the experience on his mental state, leading to feelings of distrust and paranoia.
He describes the unique challenge of navigating fame and public scrutiny, especially in the context of cancel culture, prompting listeners to consider the complexities of navigating the modern social landscape.

11. The Role of Podcasts and the “Talking Shit” Culture:

Gillis acknowledges the potential for podcasts to be used as ammunition for “cancel culture,” highlighting the dangers of taking comedic statements out of context.
He emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and nuance of humor, particularly in a free-flowing format like podcasts.
The discussion explores the complex relationship between comedy, social responsibility, and the potential for misunderstanding in a digital age.
Gillis encourages listeners to engage critically with online content, reminding them that not everything is meant to be taken literally.

12. The Power of Creative Freedom and the Success of “Gillian Keeps”:

Gillis discusses the creative freedom he enjoys with his sketch show “Gillian Keeps,” highlighting its success and the unique opportunities it presents.
He contrasts this experience with his time on SNL, emphasizing the restrictive nature of corporate television and the potential for censorship.
Gillis celebrates the creative power of independent projects, showcasing the potential for comedy to flourish outside of traditional structures.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of supporting independent artists and creators, reminding listeners that creative expression can thrive in unexpected places.

13. The Limits of “Progressive” Thinking and the Dangers of “Nerd Rage”:

Gillis and Rogan engage in a critical discussion about the potential for “progressive” thinking to be misused, particularly in the context of social justice movements.
They challenge the notion that “you can’t be racist if you’re a person of color,” highlighting the complexities of race and power dynamics.
They discuss the dangers of “nerd rage” and the potential for resentment to fuel destructive behavior, prompting listeners to consider the motivations behind online attacks.
This conversation encourages listeners to question established narratives and engage critically with social discourse, reminding them that genuine progress requires empathy and understanding.

14. The Impact of “Cancel Culture” on Comedy and the Importance of Perspective:

Gillis reflects on the long-term impact of his SNL experience, acknowledging that it ultimately strengthened his perspective and made him a more resilient comedian.
He emphasizes the importance of developing a thick skin and a sense of humor in the face of adversity, highlighting the challenges of navigating the online world.
The conversation explores the resilience of comedians and the power of comedy to overcome obstacles, reminding listeners that humor can be a powerful tool for healing and growth.
Gillis encourages aspiring comedians to embrace their creativity and not be discouraged by the potential for backlash, reminding them that true success often comes from defying expectations.

15. The Power of Comedy and the Importance of Raw Expression:

Gillis and Rogan discuss the unique power of stand-up comedy, highlighting its raw and unfiltered nature.
They emphasize the importance of experiencing comedy live, acknowledging that specials can only capture a portion of the magic that occurs in a live setting.
The conversation celebrates the ability of comedy to transcend cultural barriers and connect with audiences on a deeply human level, reminding listeners of the universal appeal of humor.
They encourage listeners to support live comedy and embrace the power of laughter to bring people together.

16. The Prevalence of Schizophrenia and its Impact on Society:

Gillis and Rogan discuss the prevalence of schizophrenia and its impact on individuals and society.
They share personal anecdotes about encounters with people who are experiencing mental illness, highlighting the importance of understanding and compassion.
The conversation delves into the complexities of mental health, acknowledging the challenges faced by individuals struggling with these conditions.
They encourage listeners to approach these issues with sensitivity and respect, reminding them of the importance of treating others with dignity and understanding.

17. The Unique World of OnlyFans and the Power of Individuality:

Gillis discusses the rise of OnlyFans and its impact on the adult entertainment industry.
He highlights the potential for individuals to achieve financial success through this platform, showcasing the power of creative expression and entrepreneurial spirit.
The conversation explores the complex relationship between sexuality, online platforms, and the changing landscape of entertainment and commerce.
Gillis acknowledges the potential downsides of this industry, including the risk of addiction and the pressure to conform to societal standards, prompting listeners to consider the multifaceted nature of online platforms.

18. The Power of “Jerking Off” and its Impact on Perspective:

Gillis and Rogan engage in a humorous discussion about the power of masturbation to alter perspective and provide clarity.
They explore the psychological effects of sexual release and its potential to shift focus and create a more objective lens.
This conversation delves into the complexities of human sexuality and the impact of physical needs on our perceptions and decision-making.
They acknowledge the humor in exploring these topics, reminding listeners that laughter can be a powerful tool for destigmatizing sensitive issues and fostering open communication.

19. The Importance of Comic Friendships and the Power of “Walled Gardens”:

Gillis discusses the value of friendships within the comedy community, highlighting the importance of shared experiences and mutual support.
He explores the concept of a “walled garden” within the comedy world, acknowledging the sense of belonging and camaraderie that exists among comedians.
The conversation delves into the complexities of social dynamics and the potential for resentment to arise from those outside of these close-knit circles.
Gillis emphasizes the importance of supporting fellow comedians and fostering a sense of community within the industry, reminding listeners of the power of shared experiences and common goals.

20. The “Crazy” World of UFC and the Importance of Respect:

Gillis and Rogan engage in an enthusiastic discussion about UFC fights, showcasing their passion for the sport and their admiration for the fighters.
They analyze the dynamics of recent fights, including Connor MacGregor’s controversial victory over Dustin Poirier despite a pre-existing injury.
They highlight the importance of recognizing the skill and dedication of fighters, even in the context of intense competition, emphasizing the need for respect for athletes and the sport itself.
This conversation explores the intersection of entertainment, athleticism, and human resilience, showcasing the captivating nature of combat sports and the strength of human determination.

21. The “Wild” Nature of Psychedelic Experiences and the Role of Ego:

Gillis recounts his experience with psychedelics, including a particularly intense encounter with mushrooms that resulted in a feeling of ego death.
He discusses the potential for both positive and negative experiences with these substances, emphasizing the role of mental state and the individual’s relationship with their own ego.
This conversation delves into the complexities of altered states of consciousness, prompting listeners to consider the potential impact of psychedelics on perception and self-awareness.
Gillis encourages listeners to approach these experiences with caution and respect, highlighting the importance of understanding the potential risks and benefits.

22. The Importance of “Failure” in Comedy and the Pursuit of Growth:

Gillis and Rogan acknowledge the importance of “failure” in comedy, highlighting its role in fostering growth and creativity.
They emphasize the need for comedians to constantly challenge themselves and push boundaries, reminding listeners that true success often comes from embracing mistakes and learning from adversity.
This conversation celebrates the resilience of comedians and the importance of continuous development, encouraging listeners to embrace the journey of artistic growth.
They encourage aspiring comedians to not be afraid of failure, reminding them that it is an integral part of the creative process.

23. The Changing Landscape of Comedy and the Rise of Podcasts:

Gillis and Rogan discuss the evolving landscape of comedy, highlighting the growing influence of podcasts and the changing dynamics of the entertainment industry.
They acknowledge the potential for podcasts to disrupt traditional structures and provide new opportunities for comedians to reach audiences.
This conversation explores the intersection of technology, creativity, and the future of comedy, prompting listeners to consider the transformative power of new platforms and the potential for increased accessibility and diversity.
They encourage listeners to embrace the possibilities of the digital age, reminding them that comedy can flourish in unexpected places.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“If you can’t get out now to know everybody, you’re fat.” – Stanhope’s blunt, comedic advice on staying in shape, highlighting the humor in his occasional “nasty” moments.
“It’s literally shit. It’s not real. No. We’re saying ridiculous things to make each other laugh.” – Gillis clarifies the nature of “talking shit” in comedy, emphasizing its playful and absurd nature.
“Don’t ever apologize. That’s what I’m saying. You can apologize for hurting people’s feelings.” – Gillis’s strong stance against grand apologies in the face of controversy, emphasizing the importance of nuance and context.
“You gotta take your lumps. Yeah. Like, they’ll come for you. And when they come for you, you just gotta ugh. You gotta yeah. You gotta This is crazy. Yeah. I’ll just keep going.” – Gillis’s resilient attitude toward criticism and his commitment to his craft, demonstrating the strength of character required to navigate the online world.
“Comics without comic friends, bro, that’s a shit life. Dude, if if you didn’t have your comic friends. Like, if you just tried to go out and what happened the other night happened, and you were just by yourself. That’s what it think. It’d be weird. Like, every time you went out there was just a crowd, it’d be really You’re not there with your friends fucking around. Be like, this is weird. Right? Yeah. You just buy yourself. I just fucking weird.” – Gillis emphasizes the vital importance of comic friendships, showcasing the unique bond and shared experience that unites comedians.