17-Mar-21
Joe Rogan Podcast #1620 – Nate Bargatze – Topic Breakdown
This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze, delving into his comedic process, experiences in the world of stand-up, and perspectives on various topics, including the nature of comedy, the power of belief systems, and the absurdity of modern life.
- The Evolution of Stand-up Comedy:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of constantly evolving and refining material, particularly after releasing a special.
- He discusses the shift in stand-up from maintaining acts for years to producing new specials on a regular basis.
- He shares how he uses opening with new material to gauge audience reception and build an act.
- Bargatze highlights the contrasting approaches between older and newer comics, with the former tending to retain acts for longer periods.
- The Impact of Early Mentorship:
- Bargatze recounts how Joe Rogan significantly influenced his early career by getting him a spot at The Comedy Store.
- He emphasizes the profound impact of positive feedback and encouragement from established comics during the early stages of a comedian’s career.
- He shares a memorable experience with Lenny Clark, whose praise solidified his commitment to stand-up.
- Bargatze underlines the significance of those early moments in shaping his path as a comedian.
- The Zen of Acceptance in Comedy and Life:
- Bargatze explores the concept of acceptance and embracing challenges, drawing parallels between driving long distances and facing difficult situations.
- He describes how Tony V’s advice to adopt a “Zen” attitude towards inconveniences helped him reframe his perspective.
- He extends this principle to other areas of life, such as nutrition and writing, emphasizing the importance of setting intentions and accepting the process.
- The episode highlights the idea that accepting what is can lead to greater peace and productivity.
- The Power of Observation and Finding Humor in Everyday Life:
- Bargatze stresses the importance of being observant and receptive to humor in everyday interactions and experiences.
- He recounts how a real-life encounter with a mistaken identity led to a new opening for his special.
- He encourages others to recognize the potential for comedic gold in unexpected moments and to embrace the serendipity of creative inspiration.
- Bargatze emphasizes that humor can be found in the most mundane and even bizarre situations.
- Navigating the Pandemic and the Drive-in Show Phenomenon:
- Bargatze discusses the challenges and adaptations faced by comedians during the pandemic.
- He highlights Bert Kreischer’s pioneering role in popularizing drive-in shows as a way to continue performing.
- He shares his own experiences with drive-in shows, emphasizing the unique challenges of performing in front of cars with limited audience response.
- The episode sheds light on the resilience and creativity of the comedy world in adapting to unprecedented circumstances.
- The Rise of Power Dynamics and Masked Society:
- Bargatze explores the shift in power dynamics during the pandemic, with the rise of social pressure to conform to mask mandates.
- He acknowledges the uncomfortable feeling of being constantly policed about mask usage, even in less populated areas.
- He shares amusing anecdotes about people enforcing mask rules, including an encounter with someone wearing a fake mask.
- The episode raises questions about the impact of social norms and anxieties on individual freedoms.
- The Perplexities of Per Capita Data:
- Bargatze expresses his frustration with the overreliance on per capita data, arguing that it can be misleading and doesn’t necessarily reflect the full picture.
- He highlights the disparity in population density between states, making direct case comparisons difficult.
- He questions the effectiveness of using per capita data to measure COVID-19 cases, highlighting its limitations.
- The episode touches on the complexities of interpreting statistics and the need for nuanced understanding.
- The Fear of Being a Loser and the Pressure to Succeed:
- Bargatze shares his deeply rooted fear of being perceived as a loser, which drove his decision to attend college.
- He discusses the social pressure to conform to expectations and the fear of judgment that can accompany taking unconventional paths.
- He reflects on the anxieties surrounding taking a gap year and the societal stigma attached to being a high school dropout.
- The episode explores the complex relationship between societal expectations, personal identity, and the fear of failure.
- The Allure of Conspiracy Theories and the YouTube Rabbit Hole:
- Bargatze delves into the phenomenon of conspiracy theories, specifically the flat-earth theory, and how easily people can be swayed by online content.
- He discusses how seemingly well-articulated arguments, even if factually incorrect, can be convincing within a closed-off online community.
- He highlights the dangers of falling into the YouTube rabbit hole, where misinformation and biased perspectives can dominate.
- The episode underscores the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking in navigating the vast and often unreliable world of online information.
- The Enigmatic World of Bigfoot and the Desire for Belief:
- Bargatze delves into the fascination with Bigfoot, exploring the allure of the unknown and the desire to believe in something extraordinary.
- He discusses the controversial “Samurai Sounds” audio recording, highlighting its questionable authenticity and the lack of scientific evidence supporting Bigfoot.
- He shares his skepticism about the validity of Bigfoot sightings, emphasizing the possibility of misinterpretations and the power of suggestion.
- The episode touches on the human tendency to seek meaning and wonder in the face of uncertainty, even if it leads to unsubstantiated beliefs.
- The Unfathomable Reality of UFOs and Space-Time Bending Technology:
- Bargatze explores the growing interest in UFOs and the potential for advanced technologies that defy current understanding.
- He delves into the “Tic Tac UFO” incident, sharing the perplexing account of a Navy pilot who witnessed an object moving at incredible speeds with no visible propulsion system.
- He discusses the possibility of advanced military technology being used to explain UFO sightings, raising questions about government transparency and secrecy.
- The episode delves into the realm of scientific mysteries and the ongoing debate about the existence and nature of UFOs.
- The Greasy Underbelly of Politics and the COVID-19 Bill:
- Bargatze comments on the cynical nature of politics, using the COVID-19 bill as an example of how unrelated provisions can be included to gain support.
- He highlights the inclusion of a clause requiring the government to release information about UFOs within 180 days, suggesting a political strategy of attaching popular items to contentious bills.
- He expresses skepticism about the government’s intention to follow through on the UFO disclosure provision, questioning their transparency and motivations.
- The episode touches on the often underhanded tactics employed in political negotiations and the challenges of navigating complex legislation.
- The Wild World of UFC and the Rise of Women’s MMA:
- Bargatze shares his newfound passion for UFC, highlighting the sport’s ability to draw in viewers with its raw energy and exciting performances.
- He discusses the growing prominence of women’s MMA, with fighters like Amanda Nunes and Holly Holm becoming major stars.
- He contrasts the popularity of women’s MMA with the comparatively less-promoted women’s boxing, highlighting the disparities in recognition and compensation.
- The episode touches on the evolution of sports and the changing landscape of gender representation and athletic achievements.
- The Enduring Power of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and the Skill vs. Size Debate:
- Bargatze reminisces about the early days of UFC and the shock of seeing a smaller Brazilian fighter dominate larger opponents using jiu-jitsu.
- He discusses the power of technique and skill over brute force in martial arts, emphasizing the importance of weight classes and the inherent danger of mismatches.
- He shares how his friends, Lewis Jay Gomez and Dave, introduced him to the world of MMA, contributing to his growing interest.
- The episode delves into the fascinating world of martial arts and the timeless appeal of witnessing skill triumph over physical advantages.
- The Confident Aura of Fighters and the Hulk-like Fantasy:
- Bargatze explores the unique aura of confidence exuded by fighters, highlighting their unyielding belief in their abilities.
- He shares a story about Michael Bisping, who embodied this confidence and even acknowledged his potential to harm others.
- He connects this to the enduring popularity of the Hulk, where a seemingly weak individual possesses incredible strength and power.
- The episode explores the human fascination with strength, power, and the desire to overcome perceived limitations.
- The Weed Game: A Billion Dollar Industry:
- Bargatze discusses the booming cannabis industry, highlighting the rapid growth and significant financial opportunities it presents.
- He shares anecdotes about the challenges faced by cannabis businesses due to federal illegality, including cash-only transactions and security concerns.
- He touches on the ongoing debate about federal legalization and its impact on the industry, highlighting the complexities of navigating conflicting laws.
- The episode provides a glimpse into the dynamic world of cannabis and its legal and economic implications.
- The Nuances of Marijuana Use: From Medicinal Benefits to Overdosing:
- Bargatze delves into the debate about marijuana use, acknowledging its potential medicinal benefits for conditions like cancer and anxiety.
- He discusses the risks associated with overconsumption, highlighting the unpredictable nature of edibles and their potency.
- He shares stories about people experiencing intense psychedelic effects after consuming high-dose edibles, emphasizing the importance of understanding dosages and individual tolerances.
- The episode explores the complex relationship between marijuana use, its potential benefits, and the need for responsible consumption.
- The Dilemma of Indulgence: Balancing Nutrition and Enjoyment:
- Bargatze acknowledges his tendency to indulge in unhealthy foods and his struggle to maintain a balanced diet.
- He emphasizes the importance of separating nutrition from enjoyment, recognizing that sometimes indulging in unhealthy foods can be a part of a fulfilling life.
- He shares his experiences with the effects of consuming unhealthy foods, emphasizing the immediate gratification and subsequent negative consequences.
- The episode explores the complexities of self-discipline, dietary choices, and the constant battle between pleasure and well-being.
- The Power of a Good Workout and the Donut Diet:
- Bargatze discusses his commitment to working out and his focus on leg exercises.
- He highlights the benefits of incorporating both cardio and weight training into a fitness routine.
- He touches on the surprising idea that sometimes consuming sugar after a rigorous workout can be beneficial.
- The episode explores the world of fitness and the ongoing debate about the best approaches to achieving and maintaining optimal health.
- The Irresistible Allure of Doughnuts: A Culinary Orgasm:
- Bargatze confesses his love for doughnuts, particularly Krispy Kreme, and his frequent visits to the doughnut shop.
- He emphasizes the deliciousness and addictive qualities of doughnuts, describing them as a culinary experience that can be hard to resist.
- He discusses the importance of distinguishing between actual nutrition and pure enjoyment, allowing himself to indulge in treats occasionally.
- The episode delves into the world of food cravings and the powerful allure of sugary, comforting treats.
- The Importance of Imposter Syndrome in Artistic Growth:
- Bargatze expresses his appreciation for feeling a sense of imposter syndrome, believing it’s a sign of an artist who doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
- He suggests that this humility and self-doubt can be motivating forces, pushing artists to constantly strive for improvement and creativity.
- He highlights the pressure that comes with growing success and the need to stay grounded and adaptable.
- The episode explores the complex relationship between artistic confidence, self-awareness, and the challenges of navigating fame and expectations.
- The Transformative Power of Podcasts and Understanding the Comedic Process:
- Bargatze discusses the impact of podcasts on the comedy world, allowing fans to gain a deeper understanding of the creative process.
- He acknowledges that podcasts help audiences understand that comedians are constantly working on and refining their material, rather than just relying on pre-written jokes.
- He emphasizes the importance of being open to audience feedback and the value of incorporating new experiences and observations into one’s act.
- The episode highlights the evolving relationship between comedians and their audiences, fostered by the accessibility of podcasts and the growing appreciation for the behind-the-scenes creative process.
- The Importance of Live Shows and the Imposter Syndrome:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of live shows, especially smaller ones, in refining material and identifying weaknesses in one’s act.
- He describes how performing in front of smaller crowds helps him identify filler jokes and unnecessary elements in his material.
- He connects this to the idea of cross-training in athletics, where different forms of exercise contribute to overall development.
- The episode underscores the importance of constant practice, experimentation, and critical self-reflection in refining comedic skills.
- The Power of Storytelling and the Evolution of an Act:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of storytelling in comedy and how it connects with audiences on a deeper level.
- He discusses the evolution of jokes and the process of adding layers and detail to make them more engaging.
- He highlights the value of incorporating personal experiences and observations into comedic material.
- The episode showcases the artistry of stand-up comedy and the ability of skilled comedians to connect with audiences through compelling narratives.
- The Wild World of Cartels and the Power of Dominance:
- Bargatze delves into the world of drug cartels, highlighting the immense power and influence they wield in Mexico.
- He discusses the complexities of the drug trade, including the ongoing conflict between cartels and the Mexican government.
- He shares stories about the cartels’ ability to intimidate and manipulate authorities, demonstrating their vast resources and influence.
- The episode touches on the global reach of criminal organizations and the challenges of combating them.
- The Unexpected Origins of Stand-up Comedy and Lenny Bruce:
- Bargatze traces the origins of modern stand-up comedy back to Lenny Bruce, who pushed boundaries and challenged social norms.
- He highlights Bruce’s role as a social commentator and his influence on subsequent generations of comedians.
- He discusses the evolution of comedy from traditional joke-telling to incorporating social commentary and personal reflection.
- The episode sheds light on the history of comedy and the legacy of groundbreaking figures who paved the way for modern stand-up.
- The Impact of Bill Burr and the Power of Ranting:
- Bargatze praises Bill Burr’s podcast, highlighting its unique format of extended rants and the creative possibilities it provides.
- He emphasizes how Burr’s free-flowing style allows him to explore a wide range of topics and develop new ideas.
- He acknowledges the importance of having conversations with other comedians, particularly in the early days, as a way to sharpen one’s comedic voice.
- The episode delves into the importance of collaboration and the influence of peers in shaping comedic styles and perspectives.
- The New Era of Comedy: From Club Spots to Theater Shows:
- Bargatze discusses the evolution of stand-up comedy from small club spots to larger theater shows.
- He emphasizes the challenges of performing longer sets and engaging audiences for extended periods.
- He shares his appreciation for the opportunity to perform in theaters and the unique dynamic of larger crowds.
- The episode highlights the progression of comedic careers and the different stages of performing in various venues.
- The Importance of Imposter Syndrome in Maintaining Humility:
- Bargatze reiterates his belief that imposter syndrome can be a healthy sign of an artist who remains grounded and self-aware.
- He suggests that it can be a driving force for continued growth and improvement.
- He highlights the importance of maintaining humility and a willingness to learn even as one achieves success.
- The episode explores the psychological aspects of artistic success and the constant need to stay motivated and adaptable.
- The Power of Connection and the Evolution of Comedic Material:
- Bargatze discusses the evolution of his comedic material and how it reflects his own growth and experiences.
- He acknowledges the importance of staying true to oneself and developing material that reflects one’s authentic voice.
- He shares his experiences with performing in different venues and the impact it has on his act.
- The episode highlights the dynamic nature of comedy and the constant process of evolving and refining one’s craft.
- The Power of Observation and the Unexpected Inspiration:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of being observant and receptive to humorous moments in everyday life.
- He highlights the unexpected ways in which real-life experiences can inspire comedic material.
- He encourages others to embrace the serendipity of finding humor in the mundane.
- The episode showcases the art of finding comedy in the most unexpected places.
Memorable Quotes:
- “It’s the first selfish thing I did for my family in comedy was to get back to Nashville.” – Bargatze acknowledges the sacrifices comedians often make for their careers and the importance of family.
- “Funny Clark said I’m funny. Fuck. Yeah. I’m good.” – Bargatze recounts the powerful validation he received from an established comedian early in his career.
- “Those people in that 500 bucks…those 500 bucks? We bring them to my life every day.” – Bargatze remembers those who supported him early on and the importance of remembering those who believed in him.
- “I think it’s one of the great things about comedy that it keeps you humble because you’re always a beginner every 2 years in.” – Bargatze highlights the cyclical nature of comedy and the constant need for growth and adaptation.
- “You can’t have, like, politically correct people running a cage fighting organization. It’s just too ridiculous.” – Bargatze offers a humorous take on the unexpected nature of the UFC and the power of authenticity.