JRE #1431 - Owen Smith

25-Feb-20

This podcast features comedian, writer, actor, and television producer Owen Smith, offering a captivating blend of stand-up comedy insights, personal anecdotes, and reflections on the entertainment industry. Provocative topics include the art of stand-up, navigating the Hollywood machine, the complexities of success and failure, and even the surprising intersection of yoga and celebrity encounters. Underlying themes explore the importance of authenticity, the pursuit of greatness, the power of resilience, and the constant struggle to find your own voice in a world often filled with noise and distractions.

1. Stand-Up Comedy: Finding Your Voice

Owen Smith emphasizes the importance of both polish and rawness in stand-up comedy. He argues that while a polished delivery can enhance a comedian’s performance, raw humor, often born from personal experience, can be equally powerful.
Smith shares his experience auditioning for Russell Simmons’s Def Jam show, highlighting the evolution of his style from raw and bravado-driven to more polished and honed. His journey showcases the importance of finding your comedic voice and embracing the evolution of your material.
Smith reflects on his early days, highlighting the discipline of honing his craft and the importance of learning from both successes and rejections. His experiences underscore the dedication and hard work required to build a successful stand-up career.
Smith emphasizes the role of personal experience and vulnerability in stand-up comedy. He believes that the best comedians tap into their own stories and emotions, forging a connection with audiences through shared experiences and honesty.

2. The Hollywood Machine: Navigating Success and Failure

Owen Smith shares a revealing anecdote about his unsuccessful audition for a Comedy Central special, highlighting the arbitrary nature of the industry and the often-unpredictable nature of success. His story underscores the challenges faced by comedians trying to navigate the often-opaque and sometimes frustrating world of television.
Smith emphasizes the importance of self-promotion and taking control of your career in the digital age. He promotes his own website and encourages viewers to judge his comedy for themselves, demonstrating a proactive approach to building a fanbase and seeking opportunities.
Smith discusses the changing landscape of comedy, noting the decline of traditional television and the rise of streaming services. He believes that the internet has created a more accessible platform for comedians to reach audiences directly, bypassing gatekeepers and traditional media outlets.
Smith highlights the challenges faced by comedians who seek recognition beyond stand-up, including the pressure to conform to industry expectations and the need to balance personal creativity with commercial viability.

3. The Power of Resilience: Overcoming Adversity and Finding Your Path

Owen Smith reveals a personal story about being rejected for a Comedy Central special, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the need to learn from setbacks. His experience showcases the importance of finding ways to overcome adversity and maintain a strong sense of self-belief.
Smith discusses the impact of his relationship with his father, or lack thereof, on his drive and determination. He suggests that having a difficult upbringing can sometimes fuel a desire to succeed and prove oneself, showcasing the power of adversity to shape an individual’s trajectory.
Smith shares his experience with yoga, highlighting the mental and physical discipline it requires and how it prepares him for life’s challenges. His insights underscore the importance of seeking out voluntary difficulty to build resilience and mental fortitude.
Smith emphasizes the value of embracing a chaotic and unconventional approach to life. He believes that his willingness to be wild, honest, and unfiltered has been crucial to his success, showcasing the importance of staying true to oneself in a world that often tries to mold and conform us.

4. The Pursuit of Greatness: Embracing the Journey and Defining Success

Owen Smith shares his perspective on greatness, suggesting that it’s often intertwined with a certain degree of madness and an unwavering drive to be the best. He uses Michael Jordan’s legendary career as an example, highlighting the fiery intensity and relentless pursuit of excellence that fuels greatness.
Smith explores the different levels of athletes and how greatness is often measured not just by talent but by the ability to overcome adversity. He uses LeBron James as an example, highlighting the unique challenges he has faced throughout his career, emphasizing that greatness is often born from a difficult journey.
Smith discusses the importance of self-awareness in recognizing when you are trying to appear great rather than actually being good. He believes that true greatness stems from authenticity and a genuine desire to create and connect with an audience.
Smith reflects on the importance of having a personal truth and not compromising your values for the sake of commercial success or industry expectations. He encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and pursue their passions with integrity.

5. The Art of Conversation: Connecting with Authenticity and Sharing Truths

Owen Smith highlights the importance of honesty and vulnerability in conversations, emphasizing the power of sharing both your strengths and your weaknesses. He believes that genuine connection is built through openness and authenticity, allowing people to see beyond the facade and connect on a deeper level.
Smith critiques the tendency of some individuals to seek validation and approval from others, especially in the entertainment industry. He warns against the trap of focusing solely on external validation and encourages listeners to prioritize self-acceptance and inner fulfillment.
Smith explores the evolution of talk shows and the rise of podcasts, emphasizing the shift toward more authentic and unfiltered conversations. He believes that the internet has created a space for genuine dialogue and real-world perspectives, breaking away from the constraints of traditional media.
Smith shares his perspective on the importance of finding your own voice and not allowing external pressures to silence you. He encourages listeners to embrace their unique perspectives and use their voices to create meaningful dialogue.

6. The Role of Discipline and Hard Work: Cultivating Your Talent and Achieving Goals

Owen Smith emphasizes the role of discipline and hard work in cultivating comedic talent. He shares his own journey of writing, performing, and constantly refining his craft, highlighting the importance of dedicated effort and consistent practice.
Smith discusses the power of routines and habits in maintaining a creative flow. He describes his own writing process, including the importance of regular writing sessions, seeking inspiration from everyday experiences, and pushing himself to create new material.
Smith emphasizes the importance of staying true to your own style and not succumbing to the pressure to conform to industry expectations. He encourages listeners to embrace their unique voice and use it to create art that resonates with their authentic selves.
Smith highlights the importance of finding a balance between the pursuit of success and the enjoyment of the creative process. He believes that the key to sustaining a fulfilling career is to stay passionate and engaged, never losing sight of the love and joy that fuels your work.

7. The Unexpected Intersection of Yoga and Celebrity Encounters

Owen Smith shares a humorous anecdote about attending Russell Simmons’s yoga studio, highlighting the surprising ways that different worlds can intersect. His experience showcases the importance of finding common ground and embracing unexpected connections, even in the realm of celebrities and self-improvement.
Smith reflects on the benefits of yoga, not only for physical health but also for mental resilience. He believes that the discipline and mental fortitude required to practice yoga can be applied to other areas of life, building resilience and a stronger sense of self.
Smith shares his experience playing basketball with Magic Johnson, demonstrating that even seemingly disparate worlds can offer unexpected opportunities for connection and inspiration.
Smith emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse experiences and seeking inspiration from unlikely sources. His stories encourage listeners to be open to new possibilities and see the world through a broader lens.

8. The Importance of Authenticity and Embracing Your Flaws

Owen Smith discusses the importance of being honest about your flaws and not pretending to be perfect. He encourages listeners to embrace their imperfections and use them to connect with others on a deeper level, creating a more genuine and authentic sense of connection.
Smith critiques the tendency for some people to try to control their image and project a flawless facade, especially in the entertainment industry. He emphasizes the importance of letting your true self shine through, rather than hiding behind a carefully crafted persona.
Smith highlights the power of vulnerability in building trust and connection. He believes that sharing your struggles and admitting your mistakes can foster a sense of empathy and understanding, creating a more genuine and authentic connection with others.
Smith encourages listeners to be comfortable in their own skin, embracing their flaws and using them to shape their unique perspectives and creative expression.

9. The Power of Observation and Turning Life’s Details into Comedy Gold

Owen Smith highlights the importance of observation in finding comedic inspiration. He describes how everyday experiences, news stories, and even conversations can spark ideas for stand-up bits, showcasing the power of paying attention to the world around you.
Smith discusses the process of transforming observations into comedic material, emphasizing the importance of finding the humor in unexpected places and developing a unique perspective on everyday life.
Smith encourages listeners to embrace a playful and curious approach to life, seeing the world through a comedic lens and using their observations to create engaging and relatable content.
Smith emphasizes the importance of finding your own voice and not simply copying or mimicking other comedians. He believes that the most successful comedians have a unique perspective and are able to connect with audiences through their individual lens.

10. The Importance of Finding Your Tribe and Supporting One Another

Owen Smith highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive friends and colleagues, especially in the challenging world of comedy. He emphasizes the value of having a network of people who understand your struggles and can offer encouragement and guidance.
Smith discusses the power of collaboration and mutual support in the creative process. He believes that by sharing ideas, offering feedback, and celebrating each other’s successes, comedians can foster a sense of community and strengthen their individual journeys.
Smith encourages listeners to seek out mentors and peers who inspire and challenge them, fostering a sense of shared purpose and a collective drive to succeed.
Smith emphasizes the importance of supporting other comedians, even when they are struggling. He believes that by celebrating each other’s triumphs and offering compassion during setbacks, comedians can create a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters growth and encourages everyone to reach their full potential.

11. The Challenges of the Comedy Industry: Balancing Creativity and Commercial Viability

Owen Smith discusses the challenges of navigating the comedy industry, highlighting the constant tension between pursuing creative freedom and achieving commercial success. He shares his own experiences of balancing his passion for stand-up with the pressures of television writing and development deals.
Smith critiques the tendency for executives and network decision-makers to prioritize safety and predictability over risk-taking and genuine creativity. He believes that this often stifles originality and prevents genuinely funny content from reaching audiences.
Smith emphasizes the importance of staying true to your own vision and not allowing industry pressures to compromise your artistic integrity. He encourages listeners to find ways to create and share their work without sacrificing their creative voice.
Smith highlights the power of the internet as a platform for comedians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and connect directly with audiences. He believes that this shift in the industry empowers comedians to maintain creative control and share their work on their own terms.

12. Navigating the World of Acting: Finding Opportunity and Embracing the Unexpected

Owen Smith reveals his experiences with acting, highlighting the serendipitous nature of his success and the importance of embracing unexpected opportunities. He shares his journey from stand-up comedian to television actor, showcasing the diverse paths that can unfold in the entertainment industry.
Smith emphasizes the importance of having a strong foundation in stand-up comedy, even when pursuing acting opportunities. He believes that the ability to connect with audiences through humor and storytelling is a valuable asset in any form of performance.
Smith discusses the challenges of navigating the audition process, highlighting the importance of maintaining composure and resilience in the face of rejection. He encourages listeners to view the process as an opportunity to learn and grow, rather than a test of their worth.
Smith reflects on the importance of finding joy and satisfaction in the creative process, regardless of the outcome. He believes that the journey is just as valuable as the destination and encourages listeners to embrace the unexpected twists and turns that life throws their way.

13. The Power of Storytelling: Connecting with Others Through Shared Experiences

Owen Smith highlights the power of storytelling in connecting with audiences. He shares his experiences of using personal anecdotes and relatable experiences to create engaging and memorable stand-up bits.
Smith emphasizes the importance of finding common ground and shared experiences with audiences, forging a deeper connection through empathy and understanding.
Smith encourages listeners to embrace their own stories and use them as a source of inspiration and connection. He believes that the most powerful stories are often those that are honest, vulnerable, and authentic.
Smith believes that storytelling is a universal language, transcending cultural boundaries and creating a shared sense of humanity.

14. The Importance of Supporting and Encouraging Other Artists

Owen Smith shares his personal experiences of supporting other comedians, highlighting the importance of creating a supportive and collaborative environment in the often-competitive world of comedy.
Smith emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating the talents of others, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Smith encourages listeners to be generous with their praise and support, creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere for artists to flourish.
Smith believes that by lifting each other up and celebrating each other’s successes, comedians can create a more supportive and fulfilling experience for everyone involved.

15. The Power of Humor: Finding Joy and Perspective in the Face of Adversity

Owen Smith highlights the power of humor to cope with life’s challenges and find perspective in the face of adversity.
Smith emphasizes the importance of laughter as a way to release tension, connect with others, and find joy in even the most difficult situations.
Smith believes that humor can be a powerful tool for social commentary and creating positive change. He encourages listeners to use their wit and creativity to shed light on important issues and inspire dialogue and understanding.
Smith reflects on the transformative power of laughter, emphasizing its ability to bring people together, create a sense of community, and offer a moment of respite from the daily grind.

16. The Importance of Staying True to Yourself

Owen Smith shares his experiences of navigating the pressures of the entertainment industry, highlighting the importance of staying true to himself and not compromising his creative vision.
Smith emphasizes the importance of being authentic and not trying to fit into a predetermined mold. He encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and use it to create art that is true to their core values.
Smith believes that by staying true to oneself, artists can create work that is genuine, relatable, and resonates deeply with audiences.
Smith encourages listeners to embrace their unique perspective and use it to create work that reflects their authentic self.

17. The Role of Observation and Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life

Owen Smith highlights the importance of paying attention to the world around you and finding comedic inspiration in everyday life.
Smith shares his experiences of drawing inspiration from conversations, news stories, and even personal experiences, demonstrating the importance of being observant and engaged with the world around you.
Smith encourages listeners to develop a keen sense of observation, noticing the small details and quirks that make life interesting.
Smith believes that by embracing a curious and playful approach to life, artists can find endless sources of inspiration and create work that is fresh, engaging, and relatable.

18. The Importance of Discipline and Hard Work in Cultivating Success

Owen Smith highlights the importance of discipline and hard work in achieving success in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the need for consistent effort and dedication.
Smith shares his own experiences of writing, performing, and refining his craft, demonstrating the importance of regular practice and a commitment to excellence.
Smith encourages listeners to embrace a disciplined approach to their creative endeavors, setting aside time for their passions and consistently pushing themselves to grow and improve.
Smith believes that success is not solely a matter of talent but also a result of hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to commit to the process.

19. The Importance of Staying Authentic and True to Your Vision

Owen Smith emphasizes the importance of staying true to your own voice and vision, even when faced with industry pressures and expectations.
Smith encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and not compromise their creative integrity for the sake of commercial success or external validation.
Smith believes that authenticity is crucial to connecting with audiences on a deeper level and creating work that resonates with their genuine selves.
Smith encourages listeners to find their own path and not be afraid to forge their own trail, even if it means going against the grain.

20. The Importance of Embracing the Unexpected

Owen Smith highlights the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities and challenges.
Smith shares his own experiences of taking risks, embracing new opportunities, and allowing life to unfold organically, showcasing the value of being flexible and adaptable.
Smith encourages listeners to embrace the unexpected twists and turns that life throws their way, seeing them as opportunities for growth and discovery.
Smith believes that by being open to new possibilities and embracing the unexpected, artists can create work that is fresh, surprising, and truly reflects their unique journey.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“There’s no more important thing. They’re they’re both very important, but Joey Diaz is not polished at all. And he’s the funniest guy that I’ve ever seen.” – Owen Smith on the importance of both polish and rawness in stand-up comedy.
“It’s like comedy is a it’s a art. It’s an art. It’s an expression of who you are.” – Owen Smith on the core of comedy being an authentic expression of oneself.
“I really needed Russell Simmons to like me. Like, you know what I mean? He meant so much to the culture and to and he just when he just didn’t see me, I just was like, damn.” – Owen Smith on the impact of receiving validation from a cultural icon.
“If you’re doing yoga on a regular basis, Yeah. Well, it was something I’m consistently inconsistent. You know what I mean? But I’ll go through a a phase.” – Owen Smith on the challenges of maintaining consistency in self-improvement practices.
“I don’t suffer from what is it when you when you can’t think of anything? Writer’s Block? Yeah. I don’t suffer from Writers’ Block. I suffer from Reader’s Block.” – Owen Smith on his approach to creative inspiration, drawing from real-world sources.