JRE #1334 – Fahim Anwar

This podcast explores the world of stand-up comedy with Fahim Anwar, a comedian who offers insightful perspectives on the industry’s challenges, the evolution of comedy, and the unique challenges faced by comedians.

Major Topics in the Podcast

1. The Dunbar Number and Comedian Social Circles:
   1. Comedians, especially those at a high level, encounter a vast number of people daily, making it challenging to remember everyone.
   2. Dunbar’s number suggests we can only maintain meaningful relationships with around 150 people.
   3. Comedians develop a strong sense of camaraderie with other comics, even when encountering them in unexpected places like airports.
   4. The transient nature of comedians’ schedules leads to frequent meetings and interactions, further contributing to the challenge of remembering everyone.
2. The Importance of Live Audience Feedback:
   1. Stand-up comedy is a unique art form that requires live audience interaction to refine and perfect material.
   2. Even seemingly minor changes in delivery or inflection can significantly impact a joke’s effectiveness.
   3. Comedians are constantly learning and adapting based on audience reactions, leading to ongoing evolution in their performances.
   4. The reliance on audience feedback highlights the collaborative nature of stand-up comedy.
3. The Shifting Landscape of Comedy Specials:
   1. The increasing frequency of comedy specials has diluted their significance, making them more like marketing brochures than unique events.
   2. While there are varying degrees of polish and quality among specials, the sheer volume has changed their perceived value.
   3. The traditional purpose of specials as a vehicle for sitcom deals has largely faded away.
   4. The current focus on streaming platforms has shifted the power dynamics, with platforms now holding more influence than traditional comedy venues.
4. The Pressure to Succeed in Comedy:
   1. The pressure to succeed in comedy can be immense, leading to anxiety and potentially even tragic consequences, as illustrated by the story of Chicken.
   2. The rise and fall of comics is a common occurrence, highlighting the fickle nature of the industry and the importance of staying grounded.
   3. The pressure to develop for television can be a double-edged sword, potentially jeopardizing a comedian’s stand-up career.
   4. The constant cycle of creating new material and performing to stay relevant creates a constant state of flux for comedians.
5. The Role of Agents and Industry Professionals:
   1. Agents and industry professionals often prioritize financial gains, sometimes pushing comedians towards opportunities that may not be in their best interests.
   2. The pressure to secure lucrative sitcom deals can lead to overlooking a comedian’s stand-up strengths and pushing them towards acting roles that may not be suitable.
   3. The industry’s obsession with decibels and quick pops can overshadow the nuances and subtleties of true comedic talent.
   4. The power dynamics between comedians and industry professionals can be complex, with established comedians often wielding more influence.
6. The Rise of CBD and its Impact on the Comedy Industry:
   1. CBD is gaining popularity in the comedy industry, with comedians frequently offered CBD oil and products.
   2. The perceived health benefits of CBD, particularly for anxiety and inflammation, make it a tempting option for comedians facing demanding schedules.
   3. CBD’s popularity reflects the industry’s growing focus on health and wellness, as well as its willingness to embrace alternative therapies.
   4. The use of CBD, while seen as a potential aid for some comedians, underscores the industry’s culture of experimentation and self-care.
7. Alex Jones and the Misunderstanding of Truth:
   1. Alex Jones, a controversial figure known for his outlandish claims, has been misunderstood by many.
   2. His claims about Jeffrey Epstein, while initially dismissed as fringe theories, have since been corroborated by mainstream media.
   3. Jones’s willingness to embrace his perceived “craziness” has led to him being written off by many, yet he continues to have a significant following.
   4. Jones’s example highlights the challenges of discerning truth in a media landscape saturated with misinformation and conflicting narratives.
8. The Importance of Long-Form Conversations and Transparency:
   1. Long-form conversations, such as those featured on podcasts, offer a valuable platform for exploring complex issues and gaining insights into individuals’ perspectives.
   2. The extended nature of these conversations allows for greater depth and nuance, revealing more about individuals’ personalities and beliefs.
   3. Politicians, in particular, can benefit from long-form conversations to present their ideas and address concerns in a more nuanced way than traditional sound bites allow.
   4. The transparency of long-form conversations helps to combat misinformation and cultivate a more informed public discourse.
9. The Fickle Nature of Public Opinion and the Rise and Fall of Heroes:
   1. Public opinion can shift dramatically, leading to the elevation and subsequent downfall of individuals who once held hero status.
   2. The case of Michael Avenatti illustrates how quickly public sentiment can change, with individuals being both praised and vilified in rapid succession.
   3. The media plays a significant role in shaping public perception, often amplifying certain narratives while downplaying others.
   4. The constant flux of public opinion highlights the importance of critical thinking and avoiding blind allegiance to individuals or ideologies.
10. The Impact of Stand-Up Comedy on Political Discourse:
    1. Stand-up comedy has increasingly influenced political discourse, with comedians employing tactics like nicknames and exaggerated personas to engage audiences.
    2. The use of nicknames like “Moscow Mitch” and “Sleepy Joe Biden” mirrors the tactics of stand-up comedians, reflecting a shift towards a more theatrical and less formal style of political discourse.
    3. This shift towards a more comedic style of politics has both its advantages and disadvantages, potentially engaging a wider audience but also trivializing important issues.
    4. The blurring of lines between comedy and politics raises questions about the role of humor in shaping public opinion and driving political engagement.
11. The Power of Visual Culture and Social Media Frenzy:
    1. Social media has amplified the impact of visual culture, leading to rapid and often intense reactions to even minor changes in familiar images, such as the Will Smith Genie.
    2. The ease with which social media can mobilize public opinion underscores its power in shaping cultural discourse.
    3. The tendency to overreact to visual cues highlights the importance of critical thinking and separating fact from fiction in a hyper-connected world.
    4. The rapid spread of misinformation and the manipulation of public sentiment underscore the need for media literacy and responsible social media engagement.
12. The Importance of Community and Mentorship in Comedy:
    1. The comedy store, a renowned Los Angeles venue, represents a strong sense of community for comedians, fostering connections and mentorship.
    2. The importance of supporting up-and-coming comedians and fostering a welcoming environment is emphasized by comedians like Fahim Anwar.
    3. The shared experiences and challenges of comedians create a strong bond, leading to a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
    4. The sense of community within the comedy industry is a powerful force for driving creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
13. The Illusion of Hierarchy in Comedy:
    1. The perceived hierarchy within comedy is often an illusion, as all comedians are ultimately striving for the same goals.
    2. The importance of treating all comedians with respect and valuing their contributions is emphasized by experienced comedians.
    3. The constant evolution of comedy and the cyclical nature of success and failure remind us that everyone is on a unique journey.
    4. The focus on community and shared experiences fosters a more collaborative and supportive environment, promoting growth and development for all comedians.
14. The Importance of Self-Awareness and Avoiding Imposter Syndrome:
    1. Comedians often grapple with imposter syndrome, questioning their abilities and comparing themselves to others.
    2. The importance of recognizing everyone’s unique journey and focusing on personal growth is emphasized.
    3. The focus on developing one’s craft and staying true to one’s comedic voice is crucial for success.
    4. The constant pursuit of improvement and the willingness to learn from both successes and failures contribute to a fulfilling and sustainable comedy career.
15. The Role of Personal Experiences and Storytelling in Comedy:
    1. Personal experiences and storytelling are often the foundation of stand-up comedy, with comedians drawing from their lives and relationships to create relatable and humorous narratives.
    2. The willingness to share personal stories and perspectives fosters a sense of authenticity and connection with audiences.
    3. The unique challenges and experiences of comedians contribute to the diversity and richness of the art form.
    4. The exploration of personal journeys through comedy allows for self-discovery, introspection, and the development of a unique comedic voice.
16. The Importance of Originality and Avoiding Imitation:
    1. The importance of developing a distinct comedic voice and avoiding mere imitation of other comedians is emphasized.
    2. The comedy bubble of the 1980s, characterized by a prevalence of imitation and lack of originality, serves as a cautionary tale.
    3. The emergence of true artists and comedians who embraced originality helped to define the art form and elevate its standards.
    4. The pursuit of originality and authenticity is essential for creating enduring and impactful stand-up comedy.
17. The Role of Comedy Clubs and Venues in Fostering Talent:
    1. Comedy clubs play a vital role in nurturing comedic talent, providing a platform for experimentation, feedback, and community building.
    2. The comedy store, with its unique atmosphere and emphasis on raw talent, has been instrumental in shaping the careers of many comedians.
    3. The importance of supporting local comedians and creating a supportive environment is essential for fostering a vibrant comedy scene.
    4. Comedy clubs serve as a testing ground for new material, allowing comedians to refine their craft and connect with audiences.
18. The Impact of Social Media and Streaming Platforms on Comedy:
    1. Social media and streaming platforms have revolutionized the comedy industry, providing new avenues for reaching audiences and promoting careers.
    2. YouTube, in particular, has become a powerful tool for comedians to share their work and build a following.
    3. The increasing availability of comedy content on platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and HBO Max has expanded the reach of stand-up comedy.
    4. The power shift towards streaming platforms has created new opportunities for comedians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and gain direct access to audiences.
19. The Importance of Hard Work, Persistence, and Finding One’s Groove:
    1. The success of comedians like Theo Von demonstrates the power of hard work, persistence, and finding one’s comedic voice.
    2. The importance of cultivating a unique style and embracing one’s personality is emphasized.
    3. The willingness to experiment and push boundaries is crucial for achieving comedic success.
    4. The journey to comedic success is often a winding path, requiring dedication, resilience, and a commitment to the art form.
20. The Potential for Shadow Banning on Social Media:
    1. The possibility of shadow banning on social media platforms like Instagram raises concerns about censorship and the manipulation of algorithms.
    2. Comedians like Andrew Schultz have experienced difficulties in finding their accounts on Instagram, suggesting the possibility of shadow banning.
    3. The potential for shadow banning highlights the need for transparency and accountability in social media platforms’ content moderation policies.
    4. The potential for censorship underscores the importance of fostering open and diverse platforms for artistic expression.
21. The Evolution of Comedy and the Need for Constant Adaptation:
    1. The comedy industry is constantly evolving, requiring comedians to adapt their approach and content to stay relevant.
    2. The changing landscape of comedy venues, audiences, and platforms requires comedians to be agile and flexible in their approach.
    3. The need to stay current and engage with contemporary issues is crucial for maintaining a strong comedic voice.
    4. The embrace of new technologies and platforms allows comedians to reach a wider audience and explore new creative avenues.
22. The Importance of Authenticity and Staying True to One’s Self:
    1. The comedy industry, with its pressure to conform and succeed, can pose a threat to a comedian’s authenticity.
    2. The importance of embracing one’s unique voice and staying true to one’s comedic vision is emphasized.
    3. The rejection of industry pressures to apologize for one’s art or conform to expectations is a sign of strength and integrity.
    4. The pursuit of authenticity fosters a more genuine and meaningful connection with audiences, leading to a more fulfilling comedic journey.
23. The Power of Stand-Up Comedy as a Force for Change:
    1. Stand-up comedy has a powerful potential to influence societal change, offering a platform for challenging norms and promoting critical thinking.
    2. The ability of comedians to shed light on injustices, expose hypocrisy, and question authority makes stand-up a potent force for social commentary.
    3. The unique combination of humor and social commentary can reach a wider audience, making stand-up a vehicle for raising awareness and fostering dialogue on important issues.
    4. The power of comedy to inspire, provoke, and challenge can be a catalyst for positive change in the world.
24. The Importance of Discipline and Methodical Approach in Comedy:
    1. The pursuit of comedic success requires discipline, planning, and a methodical approach, rather than relying solely on inspiration or chance.
    2. The ability to manage time effectively, prioritize goals, and cultivate a consistent work ethic is crucial for building a sustainable comedy career.
    3. The importance of developing routines, habits, and rituals that support the creative process is emphasized.
    4. The combination of discipline and artistry allows for a more balanced and fulfilling journey in the world of stand-up comedy.
25. The Power of Music as a Catalyst for Creativity:
    1. Music plays a significant role in the creative process of many comedians, inspiring new ideas and providing a backdrop for brainstorming.
    2. The exploration of diverse genres and artists, particularly those outside the mainstream, fuels creative inspiration.
    3. The ability to tap into the emotional resonance of music enhances the comedic experience and allows for a deeper connection with audiences.
    4. The integration of music into the creative process adds another layer of depth and complexity to stand-up comedy.
26. The Importance of Free Time and Unstructured Thinking:
    1. Free time and unstructured thinking are essential for allowing the creative mind to wander and discover new comedic material.
    2. The ability to step away from work and allow for spontaneous ideas to emerge is crucial for fueling comedic inspiration.
    3. The exploration of hobbies and interests outside of comedy can provide fresh perspectives and fuel creative energy.
    4. The importance of balance and prioritizing downtime is essential for maintaining a healthy and productive creative process.
27. The Importance of Taking Ownership of One’s Artistic Journey:
    1. The decision to pursue comedy full-time often involves a significant shift in mindset, embracing a new identity as an artist and taking control of one’s career.
    2. The willingness to take risks, embrace challenges, and trust in one’s abilities is crucial for success.
    3. The importance of setting goals, developing a plan, and executing it with determination is emphasized.
    4. The ability to navigate the complex world of comedy requires self-confidence, resilience, and a belief in one’s own potential.
28. The Importance of Building a Support System and Fostering Relationships:
    1. Building a strong support system, including family, friends, and fellow comedians, is crucial for navigating the challenges of the comedy industry.
    2. The importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and encouraging individuals who understand the demands of the profession is emphasized.
    3. The ability to rely on others for guidance, encouragement, and feedback is essential for staying motivated and focused.
    4. The strength of relationships within the comedy community can provide a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and inspiration.

Underlying Themes

The podcast reveals several underlying themes that are woven throughout the conversation:

• The Power of Perseverance and Embracing Challenges: The podcast emphasizes the importance of resilience and hard work, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the comedy industry and the need to persevere even in the face of setbacks.
• The Importance of Authenticity and Staying True to One’s Voice: The podcast underscores the need for genuineness in comedy, encouraging comedians to embrace their unique perspectives and comedic styles rather than conforming to industry pressures.
• The Value of Community and Collaboration: The conversation emphasizes the significance of fostering strong relationships within the comedy community, highlighting the importance of supporting fellow comedians, sharing knowledge, and creating a supportive environment.
• The Constant Evolution of Comedy: The podcast underscores the dynamic nature of stand-up comedy, recognizing that the art form is constantly adapting to new trends, audiences, and platforms, demanding that comedians stay agile and relevant.

Memorable Quotes

• “Don’t think people understand the volume of people that comedians, especially at your level, like, come across every day.”
• “It’s the 1 of the weird art forms that you can’t you can’t practice alone. You have to use an audience.”
• “I think if Like, if that had happened and he actually had, I don’t know, the equity of a standard comedian and been doing it for long enough — Yes. That would be like a bump in the road, but you can come back from that.”
• “I think we’ve gotta we’ve gotta take some bully tactics. And then even Moscow Mitch, I’m like, oh, they get it. Mhmm. Nicknames are the only thing that stick.”
• “It’s almost like I think he’s just so outside of the system. Like, that it seemed that — Yeah. — like, it it could’ve done anything. Just, like, we want someone to throw a wrench into it.”