JRE #1143 – Candice Thompson

This podcast features comedian, writer, and actor Candice Thompson, offering insights into her life in Los Angeles, her struggles with dating and finding the right partner, and her experiences as a woman navigating a predominantly male-dominated industry. The conversation touches on provocative themes of personal experiences with peeping Toms and the complexities of navigating relationships in the spotlight. It also dives into the world of comedy, particularly the comedy store and its impact on careers. The podcast also explores societal issues like body positivity, the impact of fame, and the contentious topic of Michael Jackson’s alleged chemical castration.

Topics & Summary

1. The Dating Struggle:

• Candice Thompson expresses the challenges of finding a compatible partner as a strong, independent, and successful woman.
• She discusses the difficulty of finding men who are not intimidated by her intelligence and independence.
• She highlights the struggle of navigating dating in a city like Los Angeles, where attention and ambition are often prioritized over genuine connection.
• She candidly discusses her experience with dating apps and her skepticism towards their effectiveness.

2. Peeping Tom Encounter and Security:

• Candice shares a chilling experience with a peeping Tom who whispered through her window, highlighting the fear and vulnerability women face.
• She discusses the importance of security measures and the impact of such incidents on personal safety and trust.
• She touches on the challenges of living on the first floor and the potential for unwanted interactions with neighbors.
• The conversation delves into the importance of self-awareness and taking precautions to protect oneself in an uncertain world.

3. The Comedy Store and its Impact:

• Candice shares her experience as a regular at the Comedy Store, recognizing its iconic status in the comedy world.
• She reflects on the evolution of the store, highlighting the shift in energy and the influence of the internet on its vibe.
• She discusses the importance of the Comedy Store in shaping careers and providing a platform for aspiring comedians.
• She compares the current environment to the less-populated days of the past, showcasing the vibrant and competitive landscape of modern-day comedy.

4. Michael Jackson’s Alleged Chemical Castration:

• Joe Rogan and Candice discuss Dr. Conrad Murray’s claim that Michael Jackson’s father, Joe Jackson, chemically castrated the young singer.
• They examine the rationale behind such an act, citing Joe Jackson’s ruthlessness and desire to preserve Michael’s singing voice.
• The conversation delves into the impact of such a procedure on Michael Jackson’s physical and emotional development.
• The topic raises questions about the ethics of manipulating children for personal gain and the long-term consequences of such actions.

5. The Allure and Dangers of Fame:

• Candice reflects on the pursuit of fame and the potential for it to become a driving force in life.
• She discusses the potential for fame to lead to unhealthy behaviors and an obsession with achieving ever-higher levels of success.
• She suggests that the pursuit of fame can be addictive and lead to a distorted sense of reality.
• The conversation touches on the importance of maintaining balance and prioritizing personal fulfillment over external validation.

6. Body Positivity and Unhealthy Behaviors:

• Candice addresses the concept of body positivity, acknowledging its importance while also expressing concerns about its potential to promote unhealthy behaviors.
• She advocates for distinguishing between self-acceptance and embracing unhealthy lifestyles.
• She expresses her own perspective on body image and her preference for a healthy lifestyle.
• The conversation touches on the complexities of societal expectations surrounding body image and the challenge of navigating a culture obsessed with thinness.

7. The Impact of Childhood Trauma and Abuse:

• Candice discusses the impact of childhood trauma on personality and behavior, particularly as it relates to ambition and self-worth.
• She shares her personal experience of witnessing violence in her childhood home and the lasting effects it had on her.
• She highlights the influence of childhood experiences on the development of mental health and coping mechanisms.
• The conversation sheds light on the importance of healthy childhood experiences and the need for support systems to navigate the complexities of trauma.

8. The Role of Martial Arts:

• Candice discusses her experience with martial arts and its positive impact on her mental and emotional well-being.
• She believes that martial arts can be a valuable tool for men to manage and express their emotions, particularly in the context of childhood trauma.
• She highlights the therapeutic benefits of martial arts in helping individuals channel aggression and violence in a constructive way.
• She reflects on the importance of finding healthy outlets for managing emotions and building self-confidence.

9. The Dynamics of Cults and Religious Organizations:

• Candice and Joe Rogan discuss the complexities of cults and the factors that draw individuals into them.
• They examine the blurred lines between legitimate religious organizations and cult-like behavior, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and self-awareness.
• They delve into the psychology of individuals who join cults, often seeking a sense of belonging, purpose, and leadership.
• The conversation explores the potential for abuse and manipulation within cult-like organizations, emphasizing the importance of skepticism and protecting one’s autonomy.

10. The Intersection of Fame, Morality, and Power:

• Candice and Joe Rogan discuss the tendency for men in positions of power, particularly those in the entertainment industry, to exploit their influence for personal gain.
• They analyze the dynamics of religious leaders, like Joel Osteen, who use their platform to amass wealth and influence, raising questions about their genuine motivations.
• They discuss the potential for exploitation and manipulation within religious organizations, emphasizing the importance of discerning between genuine faith and personal agendas.
• The conversation explores the critical role of accountability and transparency in ensuring ethical behavior within influential organizations.

11. The Impact of Social Media and Language Policing:

• Candice shares her perspective on the increasing policing of language and the sensitivity around certain words, like “tranny.”
• She argues that the intention behind language is crucial, highlighting the difference between using a word in a derogatory manner and simply as a nickname.
• She discusses the influence of social media and the ease with which individuals can express their outrage and demand changes in language.
• The conversation explores the complexities of language evolution and the importance of respectful communication.

12. The Importance of Personal Responsibility:

• Candice and Joe Rogan discuss the lack of personal responsibility in today’s society, citing examples like the rise of STDs and the reliance on dating apps.
• They emphasize the importance of making responsible choices and taking accountability for one’s actions.
• The conversation touches on the dangers of blaming external factors for personal failings and the need to prioritize self-awareness and self-improvement.
• They advocate for a shift towards individual responsibility and the importance of making informed decisions in various aspects of life.

13. The Gay Community and its Dynamics:

• Candice and Joe Rogan discuss the dynamics within the gay community, particularly the experience of navigating a predominantly male-driven environment.
• They touch upon the unspoken signals and social cues present in some gay gyms and social settings, highlighting the potential for unwanted advances and discomfort.
• The conversation explores the complexities of navigating relationships and social situations in a diverse and often misunderstood community.
• They emphasize the importance of respecting individual boundaries and fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.

14. The Importance of Self-Acceptance and Authenticity:

• Candice emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and embracing one’s true self, even when it comes to unconventional choices or behaviors.
• She discusses the pressure to conform and the importance of finding one’s own path, regardless of societal expectations.
• The conversation touches on the value of authenticity and the potential for self-discovery when individuals feel empowered to embrace their uniqueness.
• Candice’s own journey highlights the importance of owning one’s identity and defying societal norms.

15. The Power of Comedy and its Role in Society:

• Candice shares her perspective on the power of comedy to bring people together, create a sense of community, and address sensitive topics.
• She discusses the importance of finding humor in everyday life and using it as a coping mechanism to navigate challenges and complexities.
• She highlights the role of comedians as social commentators and the power of satire to challenge norms and spark conversation.
• The conversation explores the enduring power of laughter to connect individuals, foster understanding, and inspire change.

16. The Role of Humor and Identity:

• Candice reveals how her comedic voice developed as a response to feeling like an outsider and not fitting in.
• She explains how humor became a way to connect with others and build a sense of belonging.
• She discusses how humor can serve as a powerful tool for self-expression and challenging societal expectations.
• The conversation highlights the intersection of humor, identity, and the search for acceptance.

17. The Importance of Support Systems:

• Candice discusses the vital role of supportive relationships in navigating life’s challenges and maintaining mental well-being.
• She expresses gratitude for her parents and her supportive friends, recognizing their significant influence on her life.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who offer encouragement, understanding, and a sense of belonging.
• Candice’s experiences highlight the power of human connection and the importance of building strong support networks to overcome adversity.

Memorable Quotes

• “Women have educated themselves, know what they want, independent, have money, and just, like, don’t need a man, but just want one.” – Candice highlights the challenges women face in finding partners who respect their independence and success.
• “I always say this about you. Whenever we’re at the store, like, you always have these you have the grind spots. You get those grind spots. I did. The store, you get those 12:00 spots, 11:30. Those are the grind spots that show has been on for 3 and a half hours.” – Joe praises Candice’s positive attitude and work ethic in the comedy world.
• “My dad had just pulled a Joe Jackson and Lisa just wants it twice. Yeah. Alright. Pete Joe Jackson. He just passed away. Well, RIP Joe Jackson, we were just reading about him. People have been sending me these things that Dr. Conrad Murray said that Michael Jackson was chemically castrated.” – Joe and Candice delve into the controversial topic of Michael Jackson’s alleged chemical castration.
• “I don’t know anyone that really used it in a derogatory way. You know, I you know, it was just a word that we said to refer to this type of person. But to me, it sounds adorable.” – Candice expresses her perspective on the word “tranny,” highlighting the importance of intention behind language.
• “You can’t call a male flight attendant, because you can’t call a male a flight attendant, because you can’t call a male stewardess, because you can’t call a female a stewardess.” – Joe and Candice humorously discuss the evolving language around gender and occupation.