JRE #1096 – Todd Glass

This podcast features a captivating conversation between Joe Rogan and comedian Todd Glass. The dialogue delves into a wide range of topics, from comedy and performance to personal experiences with substances, mental health, and societal trends. Glass’s unique perspectives and candid humor create a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Major Topics and Deep Underlying Themes:

1. The Importance of Intimate Venues in Stand-Up Comedy:
   • Glass passionately argues for the value of small, intimate performance spaces, emphasizing the connection they foster between comedian and audience.
   • He believes these venues allow for a more personal and engaging experience, enabling a deeper connection with the audience’s energy and reactions.
   • The podcast explores how intimate spaces can enhance the impact of a comedian’s style, particularly those with a loose and free-flowing approach, like Glass.
   • This topic highlights the importance of audience interaction and the unique dynamic that emerges in intimate settings, making them a crucial element of stand-up comedy.
2. The Impact of Technology on Attention and Mental Health:
   • Glass expresses concern about the pervasiveness of smartphones and the constant bombardment of electronic stimuli, arguing it detracts from real-world experiences.
   • He believes this reliance on technology may lead to a disconnect from the natural world and a decrease in genuine human interaction.
   • The podcast explores the potential for technology to further integrate into our lives, potentially through implants, raising questions about the future of humanity’s relationship with technology.
   • This topic sparks a discussion about the potential downsides of technology and its impact on mental well-being, prompting listeners to reflect on their own relationship with digital devices.
3. The Relationship Between Substance Use, Creativity, and Self-Control:
   • Glass candidly discusses his experiences with marijuana and edibles, exploring the different effects of different consumption methods.
   • He explores the link between marijuana use and creativity, suggesting it can be a source of inspiration but also a challenge to self-control.
   • Glass delves into his struggles with dietary discipline and his desire to find a balance between indulgence and self-control, prompting a discussion about the complexities of personal choices and self-awareness.
   • This topic delves into the intersection of personal habits, creativity, and self-discipline, prompting introspection on how different choices might impact these aspects of life.
4. The Role of Discipline and Control in Comedy:
   • Glass explores the idea that excessive discipline and control can sometimes hinder comedic creativity, arguing that a degree of looseness and impulsivity can be beneficial.
   • He suggests that some comedians who are highly disciplined and driven might lack the spontaneity and vulnerability that make for compelling performances.
   • The podcast examines whether a comedian’s personal choices and habits, like substance use or dietary restrictions, can affect their comedic voice and ability to connect with audiences.
   • This topic challenges the traditional notion that discipline is the sole key to comedic success, highlighting the potential role of spontaneity and personal expression in comedic artistry.
5. The Power of Resetting and Renewal:
   • Glass shares a unique ritual involving hot washcloths, claiming it helps to reset the mind and body, reducing tension and enhancing mental clarity.
   • He compares this ritual to the sense of renewal that humans might have experienced in the past, connecting it to nature and simple pleasures.
   • The podcast explores the importance of taking breaks from mental and emotional strain, suggesting that physical activities, rituals, or even simply experiencing nature can be powerful ways to refresh and rejuvenate.
   • This topic encourages listeners to consider the importance of self-care and mental well-being, promoting simple practices that can help individuals find moments of peace and renewal.
6. The Challenges of Starting Over in Comedy:
   • Glass ponders the hypothetical scenario of starting his stand-up career from scratch, acknowledging the immense difficulty and uncertainty involved.
   • He recognizes the significant advantage of having experienced the grind and knowing he has the potential for success, but also acknowledges the challenges of facing a new unknown.
   • The podcast explores the resilience and commitment required to navigate the early stages of a comedic career, emphasizing the grueling nature of open mic nights and the dedication needed to persevere.
   • This topic highlights the often overlooked difficulties of starting a career in comedy, prompting listeners to appreciate the journey and commitment of those who pursue it.
7. The Importance of Community and Support in Comedy:
   • Glass recounts his early days in comedy, emphasizing the role of community and the importance of supporting fellow comedians.
   • He highlights the unique bond that forms between comedians who share the same journey, offering mentorship and encouragement.
   • The podcast explores the value of open mic nights as spaces for fostering connections, discovering new talent, and witnessing the evolution of comedic voices.
   • This topic celebrates the collaborative spirit of the comedy community, emphasizing the importance of supporting each other as artists navigate the challenges and triumphs of their careers.
8. The Role of Club Owners in Shaping the Comedy Landscape:
   • Glass acknowledges the critical role of club owners in shaping the comedy scene, emphasizing their influence on talent discovery, audience engagement, and the overall environment.
   • He highlights the importance of club owners who create a supportive and nurturing atmosphere, fostering the growth of both established and emerging comedians.
   • The podcast explores the complex relationship between comedians and club owners, acknowledging the potential for conflict but also emphasizing the need for collaboration.
   • This topic recognizes the vital contribution of club owners to the success of comedy, underscoring their unique role in creating spaces where comedic talent can flourish.
9. The Importance of Kindness and Empathy in Communication:
   • Glass expresses concern about the increasing polarization and vitriol in public discourse, urging for more empathy and understanding in conversations about sensitive issues.
   • He believes that relentless attacks and mockery can hinder meaningful dialogue and lead to further division, advocating for a more constructive approach to expressing differences.
   • The podcast examines the role of social media and its impact on communication, prompting a discussion about the responsibility of individuals to engage in respectful and productive conversations.
   • This topic encourages listeners to consider the importance of empathy and compassion in their interactions, urging them to approach conversations with a desire to understand rather than to win arguments.
10. The Importance of Challenging the Status Quo:
    • Glass expresses admiration for those who courageously challenge established norms and institutions, highlighting the role of activism and social change.
    • He believes that young people, particularly those who have experienced trauma or injustice, should be empowered to demand change and advocate for their rights.
    • The podcast examines the importance of critical thinking and the need to question authority, prompting a discussion about the responsibility of individuals to engage in social and political issues.
    • This topic encourages listeners to consider their role in shaping a better future, urging them to take action and advocate for positive change.
11. The Power of Kindness and Compassion in Leadership:
    • Glass proposes a thought-provoking theory that a leader who demonstrates genuine kindness and compassion, even in the face of complex political challenges, could have a positive impact on society.
    • He suggests that kindness could foster a sense of well-being and lead to improved social cohesion, potentially influencing economic outcomes.
    • The podcast examines the potential consequences of leadership styles, prompting listeners to consider the role of empathy and compassion in navigating complex social and political issues.
    • This topic invites listeners to envision a different type of leadership, one that prioritizes empathy and compassion, and to contemplate its potential impact on the world.
12. The Importance of Environmental Sustainability:
    • Glass highlights the critical need for environmental sustainability, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature and protecting natural resources.
    • He expresses concerns about the potential negative consequences of policies that prioritize corporate profits over environmental health.
    • The podcast explores the challenges of transitioning to more sustainable practices, highlighting the role of technology, policy, and individual choices.
    • This topic encourages listeners to consider the importance of environmental responsibility and to advocate for policies that prioritize sustainability for future generations.
13. The Role of Humor in Challenging Societal Norms:
    • Glass uses humor to tackle a variety of societal issues, including sexism, homophobia, and racial prejudice, demonstrating the power of comedy to challenge ingrained biases.
    • He believes that humor can be a tool for social change, sparking critical thinking and challenging people’s assumptions.
    • The podcast explores the role of comedians as social commentators, highlighting the ability of humor to expose societal absurdities and provoke laughter-inducing realizations.
    • This topic encourages listeners to appreciate the role of humor in promoting social justice and to consider how comedic voices can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.
14. The Importance of Personal Growth and Evolution:
    • Glass emphasizes the importance of personal growth and the ability to change one’s opinions and perspectives over time.
    • He encourages listeners to be open to new information and to acknowledge when their beliefs have evolved, advocating for intellectual honesty and self-reflection.
    • The podcast explores the importance of challenging personal biases and embracing a growth mindset, encouraging listeners to continually learn and adapt.
    • This topic celebrates the lifelong journey of personal development, urging listeners to embrace their capacity to evolve and to engage in continuous learning and introspection.
15. The Joy of Food and Culinary Creativity:
    • Glass explores his love for food, highlighting the joy he finds in exploring different cuisines and experimenting with flavors.
    • He shares his passion for both healthy and indulgent eating, recognizing the importance of finding a balance that works for him.
    • The podcast delves into his creative approach to food, showcasing his playful spirit and appreciation for culinary delights.
    • This topic celebrates the simple pleasures of life, reminding listeners to appreciate the joy of food and to find creative ways to enjoy their meals.
16. The Importance of Curiosity and Exploration:
    • Glass demonstrates a deep curiosity about the world, showcasing his enthusiasm for travel, learning, and experiencing different cultures.
    • He encourages listeners to embrace a spirit of adventure and to explore the world beyond their comfort zones.
    • The podcast explores the potential for personal growth and transformation that can occur through travel and exploration, highlighting the value of broadening one’s horizons.
    • This topic inspires listeners to cultivate a sense of curiosity and to seek out new experiences that can enrich their lives and expand their perspectives.

Memorable Quotes:

• “There’s something about those intimate spaces. Like, one of the things that I’ve noticed when I take people on the road with me is that guys who have never worked at a theater… It takes a few tries to get they go, oh, okay, this is a whole different thing.” – Glass emphasizes the unique challenge and reward of performing in intimate venues.
• “My concern, this is a real concern, is that we’re getting really into that and that we’re gonna let it take the next step, which is some sort of an implant. I feel like this is like a we’re in a movie. We’re in a movie about a person that becomes a machine.” – Glass expresses his concern about the potential for technology to become increasingly integrated into our lives.
• “That’s the thing about all that motivational speaking stuff. Right? Like, yeah, it’s like the guy who’s doing all the motivational speaking. If he’s pulling up in a Rolls Royce and he lives in a big mansion, it’s like, yeah, you’re enthusiastic. Look, everything’s going great. How, how are you if someone takes all this stuff away?” – Glass challenges the authenticity of motivational speakers who appear successful but may lack genuine resilience.
• “I think that’s like the same feeling that a, maybe a primitive man would get when he would, like, walk up to the edge of a cliff and see, like, some crazy view and see nature and birds flying around, the sun. Wow, you know, hey, you know, this is, yeah. I’m getting chased by leopards every day, but look, this is fucking amazing. Like, renewed enthusiasm about life.” – Glass connects his hot washcloth ritual to a sense of natural wonder and renewal.
• “I think both the people on the right and the people on the left have way more in common than they, than they have apart. And I think that a lot of the battle the people on the left have is they’ve chosen to be on the left. The same people on the right. They’ve chosen to be on the right.” – Glass emphasizes the importance of finding common ground and fostering understanding between opposing political views.