JRE #884 – Joey Diaz

Joe Rogan Experience #884 – Joey Diaz Topics

This podcast dives into a wild and often hilarious conversation with comedian Joey Diaz, exploring a range of topics that span from personal anecdotes and cultural observations to deep dives into the world of drugs, sex, and the human condition.

1. The Passionate Nature of Latinos:

Diaz kicks off the conversation with a playful exploration of what makes Latin people so passionate and energetic. He attributes this fiery nature to a combination of genetics and culture, emphasizing how a group of Cubans, Italians, or Greeks can instantly raise the volume of a room.

• Diaz argues that this passion is deeply ingrained, suggesting a genetic component.
• He uses examples of his own experiences and cultural stereotypes to illustrate the point.
• He playfully compares this energy to the intensity of Latin women, highlighting their “savagery” and allure.
• The discussion sparks a lighthearted debate about cultural traits and the impact of heritage on personality.

2. Sex and Puberty:

Diaz shares an anecdote about his 7th-grade experience with a Spanish girl, highlighting the overwhelming nature of early sexual encounters and the contrasting perspectives of logical and “animal” friends.

• Diaz recounts his own experience of discovering sexuality, emphasizing the confusion and intensity of teenage hormones.
• He contrasts the reactions of his friends, some being logical and others being driven by primal urges.
• Diaz humorously discusses the lack of sexual knowledge in his youth, highlighting the reliance on peers for information.
• This segment explores the transition from childhood innocence to the burgeoning awareness of sexuality.

3. The Role of Mentors in Sexual Education:

Diaz reveals a unique and somewhat unorthodox approach to learning about sex in his youth. He describes a local figure, “Puerto Rican Nelson,” who served as a mentor for him and his friends, providing guidance and firsthand experiences.

• Diaz recounts the unconventional way Nelson, a neighborhood figure, became a source of sexual knowledge.
• The segment highlights the lack of formal sex education in the 1970s, forcing young people to seek knowledge elsewhere.
• Diaz’s story offers a glimpse into the varied and sometimes unconventional ways people learn about sexuality.
• It raises questions about the importance of open and accurate sexual education, contrasting Nelson’s approach with the current emphasis on formal learning.

4. The Impact of Gentrification:

Diaz discusses the changing landscape of his former neighborhood in Boston, highlighting the effects of gentrification on community dynamics and affordability.

• Diaz points out the irony of once “sketchy” neighborhoods becoming desirable and expensive, displacing longtime residents.
• He discusses the challenges of maintaining affordability in rapidly changing urban areas, particularly in New York City.
• Diaz highlights the economic forces driving gentrification, contrasting the past with the present realities of his neighborhood.
• This segment explores the social and economic implications of urban development, raising questions about equity and community preservation.

5. The Importance of Experience in Comedy:

Diaz emphasizes the crucial role of experience in stand-up comedy, drawing parallels to other professions like plumbing and roofing.

• Diaz argues that experience allows comedians to adapt to unexpected situations and deliver their best work even when things don’t go as planned.
• He compares this to the skills of skilled tradesmen, highlighting the value of hands-on learning and problem-solving abilities.
• Diaz emphasizes the importance of working through challenging sets, emphasizing the growth that comes from overcoming adversity.
• He encourages aspiring comedians to embrace the learning process, recognizing that consistent practice and experience are essential for honing their craft.

6. The Impact of Drugs on Perspective:

Diaz reflects on his past drug use, particularly his experience with angel dust and cocaine, acknowledging the allure and dangers of these substances.

• Diaz shares his personal experience with the intense effects of angel dust, highlighting its impact on perception and memory.
• He discusses the transition from angel dust to cocaine, highlighting the different levels of intensity and addiction.
• Diaz expresses his understanding of the powerful hold drugs can have on individuals, acknowledging the difficulty of breaking free.
• He candidly shares his struggles with addiction, offering a raw and honest perspective on the challenges of overcoming substance abuse.

7. The Different Levels of Addiction:

Diaz differentiates between different types of drug use, categorizing them based on their intensity and impact.

• Diaz distinguishes between casual drug use, like smoking weed, and more serious forms, like injecting heroin.
• He uses this categorization to highlight the different levels of dependence and the potential for harm.
• Diaz discusses the physical and psychological effects of various drugs, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the dangers of addiction.
• This segment provides a framework for understanding the varied spectrum of drug use, emphasizing the need for awareness and responsible choices.

8. The Power of Repetition in Comedy:

Diaz shares his insights on how refining and repeating jokes over time can lead to comedic mastery.

• He emphasizes the importance of consistently working on material, even if it feels familiar, to refine and strengthen it.
• Diaz acknowledges the challenge of constantly developing new material, but stresses the rewards of honing existing bits.
• He encourages comedians to push their boundaries, experimenting with different approaches and delivery styles.
• The segment underscores the importance of embracing the iterative nature of comedy, recognizing that growth comes from continuous refinement.

9. The Evolution of the Comedy Store:

Diaz reflects on the iconic Comedy Store in Los Angeles, sharing his personal history with the venue and its transformation over the years.

• Diaz highlights the legendary status of the Comedy Store, emphasizing its significance in the history of stand-up comedy.
• He shares his 20-year journey at the store, recalling how he felt destined to perform there.
• Diaz discusses the changing landscape of the store, from its early days as a rock club to its current status as a stand-up comedy haven.
• This segment provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Comedy Store, highlighting its evolution and enduring influence on the comedy world.

10. The Allure of the Unknown:

Diaz explores the excitement of embracing the unknown, specifically in the context of secret comedy shows.

• He highlights the thrill of attending a show where the headliner is a surprise, emphasizing the element of anticipation and discovery.
• Diaz discusses the concept of secret shows, where audiences are drawn to the mystery and potential for unexpected performances.
• He explores the value of trusting a venue’s reputation, acknowledging that established comedy clubs often curate quality lineups.
• This segment delves into the human desire for surprise and the excitement of experiencing the unknown in a comedic context.

11. The Importance of Comfort:

Diaz expresses his strong preference for air conditioning, arguing that it’s essential for comfort and well-being, especially in hot climates.

• Diaz criticizes the notion that air conditioning is unnecessary in California, emphasizing the importance of temperature regulation.
• He shares his annoyance with people who prioritize a “natural” lifestyle over comfort, suggesting a disconnect between these values and reality.
• Diaz highlights the impact of climate on everyday life, emphasizing the need for practical considerations like air conditioning in certain regions.
• The segment explores the tension between personal preferences, cultural norms, and the need for comfort in everyday life.

12. The Impact of Social Norms:

Diaz discusses the impact of societal pressures, particularly the tendency to conform to perceived expectations.

• Diaz critiques the way people often try to fit in, sacrificing personal comfort or authenticity for social approval.
• He uses the example of tattoos to illustrate this point, explaining how some people avoid them due to societal disapproval despite their personal preferences.
• Diaz emphasizes the importance of embracing individuality, encouraging people to prioritize their own values and comfort.
• The segment explores the complex interplay between personal choices, social pressures, and the quest for self-acceptance.

13. The Power of Observation and Storytelling:

Diaz shares a vivid anecdote about a chance encounter with Rodney Dangerfield, highlighting the importance of observation and storytelling in his comedy.

• Diaz recounts his brief interaction with Dangerfield, expressing his admiration for the comedic legend.
• He describes how this encounter provided him with a valuable learning experience, showcasing the comedic potential of everyday observations.
• Diaz emphasizes the importance of paying attention to detail and using these insights to craft compelling stories.
• The segment highlights the way personal experiences and observations can fuel comedic creativity, emphasizing the importance of capturing the nuances of human interaction.

14. The Enduring Impact of Music:

Diaz discusses the influence of music on his comedy, highlighting how artists like Johnny Cash, the Allman Brothers, and Led Zeppelin have shaped his comedic voice.

• Diaz expresses his admiration for these iconic musicians, acknowledging their impact on his art.
• He identifies the elements of their music that resonate with his comedic sensibility, highlighting their raw energy and emotional depth.
• Diaz suggests that music can serve as a source of inspiration and influence for comedy, creating a unique blend of artistic expression.
• The segment explores the interconnectedness of art forms, suggesting that cross-pollination of creative influences can enrich both music and comedy.

15. The Unpredictability of Comedy:

Diaz shares his insights on the unpredictability of stand-up comedy, highlighting the importance of being adaptable and working through challenging sets.

• He emphasizes the importance of being prepared, but also acknowledges the inherent unpredictability of live performance.
• Diaz recognizes the impact of audience energy, noting how a strong performer can elevate a set, while a struggling performer can hinder it.
• He stresses the importance of staying present and adjusting to the moment, emphasizing the need to remain flexible and responsive.
• The segment underscores the dynamic nature of comedy, recognizing that the best sets often emerge from a blend of preparation and improvisation.

16. The Importance of Physical Fitness:

Diaz touches on the topic of physical fitness, sharing his observations of dedicated gym-goers and their motivations.

• Diaz acknowledges the appeal of fitness culture, particularly the visual aesthetics of sculpted bodies.
• He suggests that the desire to impress others often plays a role in gym motivation, highlighting the social aspect of physical fitness.
• Diaz discusses the different approaches to fitness, contrasting the intensity of hardcore gym girls with the more casual approach of others.
• The segment explores the complex interplay between physicality, social pressures, and personal goals in the realm of fitness.

17. The Cultural Significance of Food:

Diaz launches into a lively discussion about food, sharing his experiences with crab, clams, and other delicacies.

• Diaz expresses his fondness for seafood, particularly clams and dungeness crab, highlighting the cultural significance of regional cuisine.
• He recounts his personal journey with crab, revealing his childhood aversion and eventual appreciation for this delicacy.
• Diaz delves into the details of different crab varieties, showcasing his knowledge and passion for food.
• The segment highlights the importance of food in cultural identity, exploring the diverse culinary traditions and preferences across different regions.

18. The Evolution of Food Preservation:

Diaz reflects on the historical significance of salt in food preservation, drawing parallels to the advent of refrigeration and its impact on modern food consumption.

• Diaz highlights the crucial role of salt in maintaining food freshness throughout human history, emphasizing its importance in early societies.
• He contrasts this with the modern convenience of refrigeration, showcasing the technological advancements that have transformed food preservation.
• Diaz uses the example of salt to illustrate how societal values and priorities shift over time, reflecting technological progress and changing lifestyles.
• The segment provides a historical perspective on food consumption, revealing the remarkable evolution of food preservation techniques.

19. The Power of the Unexpected:

Diaz shares a particularly memorable anecdote about a night with a woman named Laurie, highlighting the unexpected turns that life can take.

• Diaz recounts a spontaneous encounter with Laurie, showcasing the unpredictable nature of human connection.
• He describes how a seemingly ordinary night turned into an adventure, filled with unexpected twists and turns.
• Diaz highlights the importance of embracing the present moment, recognizing that life is full of surprises.
• The segment explores the power of spontaneity and the unexpected joys that can arise from taking chances.

20. The Importance of Staying True to Yourself:

Diaz concludes the podcast by emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself, even when faced with societal pressures or unconventional experiences.

• Diaz encourages listeners to embrace their individuality, reminding them that life is a journey of discovery and self-acceptance.
• He reflects on his own journey, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs of remaining true to himself.
• Diaz emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passions, regardless of external expectations.
• The segment serves as a powerful reminder to stay true to oneself, embracing the unique qualities that make us who we are.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “What is it about Latin people that makes them so passionate and crazy and hot blooded and what is it? Is it genetic? Is it culture being genetic? It’s gotta be genetic. You think so?”
• “You know how much pain I had in my heart the first time I had to put something in my nose. How much? It’s not a good feeling. It’s not a good feeling. I don’t give a fuck with anybody to tell you. I think about it now. It’s horrible.”
• “You don’t need to believe it, you just need to do it.”
• “There’s a lot of really hot women that are like fucking some guy who’s seventy years old and they talked this dummy into marrying them with no pre nuptial, they suck his dick for a couple years and drop the cabooli on him. Boom plump.”
• “I just wanted to do something. You know? Yeah. Something in my buddy here because, like, I had a vision of this, but I never saw the the tail end of this.”