JRE #1289 - Eddie Izzard

2-May-19

This podcast dives into the life and experiences of Eddie Izzard, a British comedian, actor, writer, and political activist. He touches upon his career, transgender identity, marathon feats, and political aspirations. Provocative topics include his experiences with prejudice and discrimination as a transgender individual, his on-the-spot training for marathon endurance runs, and his views on Brexit and the current political climate. Underlying themes explore the importance of self-acceptance, the nature of human resilience, and the power of a global vision for a better future.

Major Topics:

1. Eddie Izzard’s Transgender Journey:

Izzard came out as transgender 34 years ago, when it was not widely accepted.
He faced significant prejudice and discrimination, including physical attacks and verbal abuse.
He credits his strength and resilience to his transgender identity, pushing him to overcome adversity.
He identifies as gender fluid, embracing both “boy mode” and “girl mode” in his personal and professional life.

2. Marathon Endurance Feats:

Izzard ran 43 marathons in 51 days with minimal training, showcasing his incredible willpower and endurance.
He faced physical challenges, including severe foot injuries, and experienced rhabdomyolysis due to overexertion.
His marathon runs were a testament to his personal strength and a way to explore his physical and mental limits.
He views marathon running as a form of self-discovery and a reminder of his ability to push beyond perceived boundaries.

3. Political Aspirations and Vision:

Izzard plans to run for Parliament in the UK, advocating for a global vision for a more positive future.
He believes in the importance of transparency, fairness, and a universal basic income to address global challenges.
He acknowledges the complexities of global issues, including Brexit, automation, and artificial intelligence.
He emphasizes the need for bravery and curiosity in navigating a changing world and fostering international cooperation.

4. The Power of Communication:

Izzard highlights the significance of communication and understanding in overcoming prejudices and fostering a more inclusive world.
He sees the value of using humor as a tool for bridging cultural divides and encouraging empathy.
He embraces the power of language, learning and performing in multiple languages, and advocating for global understanding.
He believes that technology, such as translation tools, will play an increasingly important role in breaking down communication barriers.

5. The Nature of Comedy:

Izzard is known for his improvisational style, drawing inspiration from his life experiences and personal observations.
He believes in the importance of keeping comedy fresh and spontaneous, avoiding pre-written routines.
He finds humor in unexpected tangents, wordplay, and absurdist humor, often challenging conventional comedic structures.
He emphasizes the contagious nature of laughter and the power of humor to connect with audiences on a personal level.

6. The Legacy of Stand-Up Comedy:

Izzard discusses the influential figures in his comedic journey, including Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, and Richard Pryor.
He acknowledges the evolution of comedy over time, from more traditional styles to more personal and socially conscious approaches.
He highlights the role of comedy in pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and giving voice to marginalized communities.
He credits these comedic pioneers for paving the way for more diverse and unconventional voices in stand-up.

7. The Importance of Self-Acceptance:

Izzard’s journey is a testament to the importance of self-acceptance and the courage to live authentically.
He encourages others to embrace their true selves, regardless of societal pressures or expectations.
He sees his transgender identity as a source of strength, driving him to challenge preconceived notions and advocate for inclusivity.
His openness and honesty about his experiences inspire others to be true to themselves and celebrate their individuality.

8. The Human Condition:

Izzard explores the complexities of human nature, acknowledging both our capacity for good and our potential for harm.
He believes that even negative experiences can ultimately contribute to our growth and drive us towards a better world.
He emphasizes the importance of learning from our mistakes and striving for continuous improvement as a society.
He remains optimistic about humanity’s potential for progress and believes that we can overcome challenges through collaboration and understanding.

9. The Power of Role Models:

Izzard recognizes the importance of positive role models in challenging societal norms and promoting inclusivity.
He sees himself as a role model for transgender individuals, demonstrating the possibility of living authentically and achieving success.
He acknowledges the influence of other prominent figures, both in comedy and in other fields, who have paved the way for more diverse representation.
He believes that seeing others embrace their individuality and achieve their dreams inspires others to do the same.

10. The Role of the Arts:

Izzard values the power of art to inspire, provoke thought, and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
He sees comedy as a form of social commentary, offering a platform to challenge societal norms and spark conversations about important issues.
He believes that film and theater are powerful mediums for exploring the human condition and promoting empathy and understanding.
He embraces the transformative nature of art and its ability to inspire positive change in the world.

11. The Importance of Adventure:

Izzard views life as an adventure, embracing challenges and pushing his personal boundaries.
He believes that stepping outside of our comfort zones fosters personal growth and expands our perspectives.
His marathon runs and his travels around the world demonstrate his commitment to experiencing life to the fullest.
He encourages others to embrace the unknown and to seek out new experiences that enrich their lives.

12. The Importance of Being Yourself:

Izzard’s journey emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself, regardless of societal expectations.
He advocates for self-acceptance and celebrates individuality, encouraging others to embrace their unique qualities.
He believes that authenticity is essential for personal fulfillment and happiness.
His message resonates with those who feel different or marginalized, empowering them to live authentically and celebrate their uniqueness.

13. The Evolution of the Transgender Narrative:

Izzard notes the shift in public perception of transgender people from a period of limited visibility and acceptance to a more open and understanding environment.
He discusses how the transgender narrative has become more prominent in media and public discourse, leading to greater awareness and acceptance.
He reflects on how his own experiences have contributed to this evolution, highlighting the importance of speaking out and challenging societal norms.
He acknowledges that progress has been made, but also recognizes that there are still ongoing challenges and a need for continued advocacy for transgender rights.

14. The Importance of Perspective:

Izzard emphasizes the importance of maintaining a broader perspective on global events, acknowledging both the challenges and the progress we’ve made.
He encourages critical thinking and skepticism, urging listeners to avoid being swayed by sensationalized media narratives.
He believes in the power of dialogue and understanding to bridge divides and create a more harmonious society.
He reminds us that despite the complexities of the world, there is still hope for a brighter future through collaborative action and compassion.

15. The Human Drive for Progress:

Izzard touches upon the innate human drive for progress and improvement, citing examples of scientific advancements and social change.
He believes that this drive is a fundamental aspect of the human condition, prompting us to constantly seek better solutions and strive for a more just and equitable world.
He acknowledges that progress is often messy and can involve setbacks, but maintains that the overall trajectory of human history is towards greater understanding and collaboration.
He reminds us that even in challenging times, it is crucial to hold onto hope for a future where humanity can flourish and thrive.

16. The Role of Humor in Healing:

Izzard discusses the power of humor as a coping mechanism, a way to find light in darkness and process difficult experiences.
He believes that laughter can be a catalyst for healing, offering a release from stress and a sense of connection with others.
He acknowledges that humor can be a powerful tool for challenging social norms and promoting understanding.
He reminds us that humor can be a source of resilience and hope, reminding us of our shared humanity and our capacity for joy, even in difficult times.

17. The Impact of Role Models on Society:

Izzard touches upon the transformative impact of role models on society, demonstrating how seeing others achieve their dreams and embrace their individuality can inspire others to do the same.
He highlights the importance of diverse representation in all areas of life, including entertainment, politics, and sports.
He believes that seeing others who share similar experiences or who challenge societal norms can empower individuals to embrace their own identities and to strive for a more inclusive and equitable world.
He acknowledges the power of positive role models to inspire hope and possibility, demonstrating that anything is achievable with determination, courage, and a belief in one’s own potential.

18. The Importance of Finding Your Voice:

Izzard’s career is a testament to the importance of finding your voice and using it to make a difference in the world.
He encourages others to express themselves authentically, whether through comedy, activism, or any other creative outlet.
He believes that every individual has a unique perspective and a valuable story to share.
He reminds us that finding your voice can be empowering, allowing us to connect with others, challenge societal norms, and contribute to a more just and equitable society.

19. The Importance of Living Authentically:

Izzard’s journey highlights the importance of living authentically, embracing your true self regardless of societal pressures or expectations.
He encourages others to be honest with themselves and to find the courage to live in alignment with their values and beliefs.
He believes that authenticity is essential for personal fulfillment and happiness, and that embracing your individuality is a source of strength and resilience.
His message resonates with those who feel different or marginalized, reminding them that their uniqueness is something to be celebrated and that living authentically is a journey worth pursuing.

20. The Nature of Prejudice and Discrimination:

Izzard shares his personal experiences with prejudice and discrimination, illustrating how these harmful forces can impact individuals and society as a whole.
He emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of prejudice, including fear, ignorance, and a lack of empathy.
He advocates for challenging these forces through education, open dialogue, and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
He reminds us that confronting prejudice and discrimination is a collective responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in fostering a society where all individuals feel safe, respected, and valued.

Memorable Quotes:

“I run my career on a military thing because it’s quite difficult to, you know, any career putting it together is kinda weird your next week was this.” – Izzard highlights his strategic approach to his career, comparing it to military planning and navigating challenges with resilience.
“I’ve done Special Forces civilian division, you know, fighting people speak. People speak and outperform in 4 languages that run over 80 marathons I’m going into politics next year. And and, yeah, and I came in and the transgender thing is it’s in a better place than it was. Back in 85.” – Izzard humorously refers to his own life as a “civilian special forces” mission, emphasizing his dedication and achievements despite facing adversity.
“It’s a tiger. If a tiger is attacking you and trying to kill you, you don’t go, man. Is this a girl tag a bull tiger. We don’t care about that. They don’t care about the tiger. So you’ve always felt like you gravitated towards feminine things towards No gravitate towards both.” – Izzard uses a powerful analogy to emphasize that gender shouldn’t dictate how we respond to a threat, highlighting that our true nature transcends superficial labels.
“I’m gonna go away now. I’m gonna stop this. I had to stop my own interview. I’ve never done in my life. And I realized, they’ve just got no 1 else to talk to. That’s desperate.” – Izzard humorously recounts his experience with the press after his marathon feat, highlighting the desperation for news and the impact of his accomplishment on public perception.
“I always felt that I need to be out back doing stuff. Because when I was a kid, I live for soccer, for football. I used to run like a crazy idiot. I loved that game. And then from the age of 12, I went to a school that didn’t play it and I never played sports. This is 1 of my gifts to myself, accent, I think.” – Izzard shares his love for physical activity and his journey back to running as a form of self-care and self-expression, highlighting how important it is to find what nourishes us.