JRE #1424 – Tom Papa

by

6-Feb-20






Podcast Topics: Joe Rogan #1424 – Tom Papa

This podcast delves into comedian Tom Papa’s experiences with various topics, including his carnivore diet, sourdough bread baking, the comedy scene, and his unique perspective on ghosts and mental wellness. Provocative discussions include the downsides of celebrity culture and a deep dive into the history and brutality of the Comanche tribe. Underlying themes explore the power of routine and discipline, the importance of finding community, and the complexities of human nature.

Podcast Topics:

  1. The Carnivore Diet and Its Impact:
    • Tom Papa’s personal experience with the carnivore diet, motivated by Vitiligo, an autoimmune disease.
    • He highlights the potential benefits of reducing refined sugar and carbohydrates, emphasizing the importance of finding a diet that works for each individual.
    • Tom discusses the potential benefits of the carnivore diet for those with autoimmune disorders and addresses the controversial nature of the diet.
    • He emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and finding what works best for your individual needs, even if it’s not a traditional approach.
  2. Sourdough Bread Baking as a Passion:
  3. Tom Papa’s love for sourdough bread baking and his dedication to mastering the craft.
  4. He shares his experience with different bread recipes and his own YouTube series, “Getting Baked with Tom,” dedicated to his sourdough baking journey.
  5. Tom dives into the importance of understanding the nuances of the baking process, comparing it to becoming “one with the dough.”
  6. He expresses his frustration with the quality of bagels in LA and attributes the superior taste of his own bagels to the use of sourdough starter.
  7. The Comedy Scene: Hangouts, Evolution, and Influences:
  8. Tom Papa’s reflections on the evolution of the comedy scene, contrasting the different vibes of the Comedy Store and the Improv.
  9. He shares his experiences with the “deranged weirdos” who frequented the Comedy Store and how the new wave of the store has changed the scene.
  10. Tom emphasizes the importance of a community and a sense of belonging within the comedy world, highlighting the unique bond comedians share.
  11. He discusses the influence of comedians like Richard Pryor and George Carlin, and how they opened doors for comedians to push boundaries and tackle sensitive topics.
  12. Ghosts, Paranormal Experiences, and the Comedy Store’s “Soul”:
  13. Tom Papa’s personal experience with a ghost in his own house, documented by his Nest camera.
  14. He shares stories about the haunted nature of the Comedy Store, specifically the Belly Room and the basement, and the bizarre experience of comic Carl Bow who was allegedly pulled off the stage by a ghost.
  15. Tom expresses his belief in ghosts and the idea that places can hold memories and energy, even beyond the realm of rational explanation.
  16. He discusses the fascinating concept of “Roswell Rods,” a controversial subject in the paranormal community.
  17. The Problem of Homelessness and Mental Health:
  18. Tom Papa’s observation of the growing homelessness crisis, particularly in LA, and the complexities of its causes, including mental illness and economic hardship.
  19. He reflects on the history of the homelessness crisis, linking it to the changes in mental health policy during the Reagan administration.
  20. Tom discusses the stigma surrounding mental illness and the importance of acknowledging that everyone experiences mental health challenges to some degree.
  21. He emphasizes the importance of investing in programs that support youth in vulnerable communities and offer them alternatives to drugs, crime, and gangs.
  22. The Rise of Podcasts and Uncensored Content:
  23. Tom Papa’s acknowledgment of Howard Stern’s impact on the media landscape, particularly for opening the door for uncensored content.
  24. He discusses the role of SiriusXM in pushing the boundaries of radio broadcasting and its influence on the rise of podcasts.
  25. Tom reflects on the evolution of podcasts from early shows like “Opie and Anthony” to the current explosion of content.
  26. He discusses the benefits of podcasts for fostering open and honest conversations, offering a platform for diverse voices, and providing inspiration for personal growth and change.
  27. The Power of Routine and Discipline:
  28. Tom Papa’s emphasis on the importance of routine and discipline in his creative process, both for writing and for maintaining his carnivore diet.
  29. He discusses the benefits of establishing a consistent schedule for writing, comparing it to a religious ritual.
  30. Tom highlights the value of consistency in podcasting and how it helps build a loyal audience.
  31. He advocates for embracing rigidity in specific areas of life to achieve greater productivity and focus.
  32. The Impact of Cancel Culture on Comedy:
  33. Tom Papa’s perspective on cancel culture and how it distorts the nature of comedy and misinterprets the intent behind jokes.
  34. He discusses the importance of context and the dangers of taking comedy out of its intended framework.
  35. Tom emphasizes the need for open dialogue and the recognition that comedians, like everyone else, are human and make mistakes.
  36. He highlights the fact that comedians have a long history of pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms, which is crucial for progress and social commentary.
  37. The Importance of Community and Connection:
  38. Tom Papa’s deep appreciation for the unique sense of community within the comedy world, highlighting the support and camaraderie among comedians.
  39. He reflects on how comedy has filled the void left by traditional institutions and offers a platform for connection and shared experiences.
  40. Tom emphasizes the importance of finding community and shared interests, regardless of the form it takes.
  41. He acknowledges the increasing isolation of modern life and the value of finding ways to connect with others.
  42. The Comanche Tribe: History, Brutality, and Cultural Context:
  43. Tom Papa’s fascination with the history of the Comanche tribe, specifically the brutal tactics they employed during the 19th century.
  44. He discusses the Comanche’s mastery of archery, their nomadic lifestyle, and their reliance on buffalo hunting for sustenance.
  45. Tom explores the complex question of how cultures can become comfortable with extreme violence and the dangers of normalizing it.
  46. He reflects on the devastating consequences of the Comanche’s brutal tactics for both Native Americans and American settlers.
  47. The Changing Landscape of Entertainment:
  48. Tom Papa’s observations about the shift in the entertainment industry, with the decline of traditional television and the rise of streaming services like Netflix.
  49. He discusses the impact of Netflix on the comedy scene, prompting comedians to constantly create new content and elevate their game.
  50. Tom recognizes the increasing fragmentation of the entertainment landscape and the challenges of finding a shared cultural experience.
  51. He highlights the importance of finding meaning and purpose in personal projects and hobbies, offering a sense of fulfillment and identity in a rapidly changing world.

5 Memorable Quotes:

  • “I think the problem is not plants as much as the problem really is refined sugar, carbohydrates, and bullshit.”
  • “That bread’s probably better because it is less gluten because you make sourdough bread. Yeah. It’s just flat water, salt, and yeast. it’s healthier for you, but I think I think bread in general.”
  • “It’s like glue. I mean, look look what it what it is when you’re making the dough. total glue. That eventually becomes glue in your stomach.”
  • “I’ve been reading a lot about Native American cultures lately. I’ve gone through, like, five books on the Wild West over the last few months.”
  • “It’s so strange that cultures can become comfortable with extreme violence. Like, very comfortable.”