JRE #422 - Greg Fitzsimmons

11/29/2013

Joe Rogan Podcast #422 – Greg Fitzsimmons: Topic Breakdown

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience dives deep into the world of stand-up comedy with Greg Fitzsimmons, a seasoned comedian who shares his unique perspective on the industry and the evolution of comedy over the years. The conversation touches upon the golden age of Boston comedy, the transition from live performance to podcasting, and the complex relationship between comedians and radio DJs. Underlying themes explore the nature of humor, the pursuit of success, and the evolving dynamics of social commentary and cancel culture.

1. The Golden Age of Boston Comedy:

Fitzsimmons reminisces about the unique comedy scene in Boston during the 80s and 90s, highlighting its raw energy, testosterone-fueled humor, and the dominance of local talent.
He pays homage to legendary Boston comics like Gavin, Teddy Bergeron, and Steve Sweeney, emphasizing their distinct style and influence on his own career.
Fitzsimmons delves into the pros and cons of the Boston approach, acknowledging the sharpness of their jokes but also their tendency to stay within the confines of a specific style and audience.
The discussion highlights the importance of repetition and refining jokes to a razor-sharp edge, a key lesson learned from observing the mastery of these Boston legends.

2. The Rise of Podcasting and its Impact on Comedy:

Fitzsimmons discusses the evolution of comedy from stand-up stages to podcasting, highlighting its accessibility, intimate nature, and opportunity for deeper conversations.
He embraces his role as a podcaster, recognizing its similarity to his father’s work in radio broadcasting, marking a full-circle return to his roots.
Fitzsimmons acknowledges the challenges of radio and podcasting, particularly the disruption caused by commercials and the limitations of the medium itself.
He expresses a desire for a more dynamic and interactive approach to radio, imagining a future where advertising is integrated into the flow of the conversation rather than interrupting it.

3. The Complex Relationship Between Comedians and Radio DJs:

Fitzsimmons delves into the often contentious relationship between comedians and radio DJs, exploring the underlying reasons for resentment and tension.
He identifies a common frustration among comedians with DJs who feel threatened by their success or envious of their ability to connect with audiences directly.
Fitzsimmons points out the lack of instant feedback for DJs, which can lead to a sense of insecurity and a tendency to resort to confrontational tactics during interviews.
He highlights the importance of a shared understanding and mutual respect between comedians and DJs, emphasizing the importance of a sense of brotherhood within the entertainment industry.

4. Navigating the Entertainment Industry: The Role of Agents and Managers:

Fitzsimmons shares his experiences with various agents and managers, highlighting the crucial role they play in navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry.
He emphasizes the importance of finding a manager who truly understands your vision and is invested in your long-term success rather than just chasing quick profits.
Fitzsimmons reveals how a chance encounter with Bob Nelson and his subsequent move to Boston led him to his current manager, Jeff Sossman, a relationship that has spanned over two decades.
He advises aspiring comedians to be wary of forming deep friendships with agents and managers, reminding them that ultimately, these relationships are built on business and should be approached with a healthy dose of realism.

5. The Evolution of Social Commentary and Cancel Culture:

Fitzsimmons tackles the evolving landscape of social commentary and cancel culture, acknowledging the changing sensitivities surrounding humor and the potential for jokes to be misconstrued.
He discusses the recent controversy surrounding Sarah Silverman’s comedy, highlighting the absurdity of critiques that suggest she should tone down her edgy humor to further her career.
Fitzsimmons emphasizes the importance of authenticity and finding your genuine voice as a comedian, arguing that forced edginess or pandering to specific demographics ultimately leads to uninspired and ineffective humor.
He reflects on the importance of context and understanding the nuances of humor, recognizing that what might be funny in one context could be offensive in another.

6. The Nature of Humor and the Pursuit of Success:

Fitzsimmons discusses the inherent subjectivity of humor, recognizing that what one person finds hilarious another might find utterly unfunny.
He embraces the idea that success in comedy is often tied to finding a niche and connecting with a specific audience, rather than striving for universal appeal.
Fitzsimmons shares his own journey of finding his comedic voice, highlighting the importance of trial and error, constant refinement, and a willingness to push boundaries.
He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding your strengths as a comedian, acknowledging that not everyone is destined to be a mainstream star.

7. The Importance of Authenticity and Self-Acceptance:

Fitzsimmons advocates for authenticity and self-acceptance, challenging the societal pressures to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
He expresses his own struggles with body image, highlighting the importance of finding what you like about yourself, even if it’s just one physical attribute.
Fitzsimmons discusses the prevalence of plastic surgery, particularly among women and young people, raising questions about the societal pressures that drive these decisions.
He encourages a sense of restraint and self-acceptance, arguing that beauty is often found in imperfections and unique features.

8. The Impact of Physical Attributes on Success and Relationships:

Fitzsimmons delves into the complex relationship between physical attributes and success, particularly in the realm of comedy and relationships.
He examines the common perception that good-looking comedians struggle to connect with male audiences, who might feel threatened by their success.
Fitzsimmons explores the importance of personality and comedic talent over physical attributes, arguing that genuine connection and humor can transcend any perceived physical shortcomings.
He discusses the enduring fascination with penis size, highlighting the subjectivity of what constitutes “big” or “small” and the potential for this to impact self-esteem and relationships.

9. The Role of Chemistry and Connection in Relationships:

Fitzsimmons reflects on his own experiences with relationships, acknowledging the importance of chemistry, shared interests, and a sense of connection beyond physical attraction.
He shares a humorous anecdote about a relationship that started with a supermodel but ultimately proved to be unfulfilling due to a lack of spark.
Fitzsimmons emphasizes the importance of shared values, mutual respect, and a willingness to embrace differences in relationships.
He suggests that finding someone who challenges you intellectually and emotionally can be more rewarding than seeking out someone who simply agrees with everything you say.

10. The Dangers of Substance Abuse and the Importance of Recovery:

Fitzsimmons candidly discusses his own struggles with alcoholism and the decision to quit drinking at a young age.
He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and breaking negative patterns, particularly those inherited from family members.
Fitzsimmons highlights the benefits of sobriety, including increased self-awareness, enhanced relationships, and a greater capacity for genuine connection.
He discusses the role of habit in shaping our lives and the potential for breaking old habits and developing new, healthier ones, drawing on the scientific research that suggests 90 days is a crucial turning point for rewiring our brains.

11. The Devastating Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury in Athletes:

Fitzsimmons delves into the dangers of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in sports, particularly in boxing and mixed martial arts.
He shares firsthand accounts of fighters who have suffered long-term cognitive decline as a result of repeated blows to the head, highlighting the lasting impact of this injury.
Fitzsimmons expresses concern about the use of testosterone replacement therapy for athletes with TBI, questioning whether it’s simply a bandaid for a more serious underlying issue.
He calls for greater awareness and preventative measures to protect athletes from the devastating effects of TBI, advocating for stricter rules and regulations in combat sports.

12. The Evolving Nature of Politics and the Power of Information:

Fitzsimmons examines the current political landscape, highlighting the rise of social media and its impact on political discourse and the dissemination of information.
He discusses the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking in navigating the onslaught of information, advocating for independent news sources and a more nuanced approach to political analysis.
Fitzsimmons expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of online voting systems, citing the vulnerabilities of existing systems and the potential for manipulation.
He argues for a more transparent and accountable political system, advocating for reforms that would enhance citizen participation and ensure fair representation.

13. The Ethics of Drone Warfare and the Moral Implications of Technology:

Fitzsimmons tackles the ethical complexities of drone warfare, questioning the justifications for targeted killings and the long-term consequences of drone technology.
He expresses concern about the desensitization of warfare through the use of drones, arguing that the physical and emotional distance from the battlefield can lead to a dehumanization of the enemy.
Fitzsimmons challenges the argument that drone strikes are “surgical” and “precise,” highlighting the evidence of civilian casualties and the unintended consequences of these operations.
He urges a more critical examination of the role of technology in warfare, advocating for a more nuanced approach to military strategy that prioritizes human rights and international law.

14. The Role of Technology in Shaping Society and the Importance of Accountability:

Fitzsimmons explores the profound impact of technology on society, highlighting its transformative power and its potential for both good and evil.
He acknowledges the benefits of technology, such as increased connectivity, access to information, and advancements in medical research.
Fitzsimmons expresses concern about the negative consequences of technology, such as the spread of misinformation, the erosion of privacy, and the rise of online hate speech.
He advocates for greater accountability and ethical guidelines to govern the use of technology, arguing that it should be harnessed for the betterment of society rather than for personal gain or malicious purposes.

15. The Paradox of Anonymity and the Need for Moral Outrage:

Fitzsimmons delves into the paradoxical nature of anonymity online, recognizing its potential to both empower and disinhibit individuals.
He acknowledges the dangers of online anonymity, particularly the prevalence of hate speech and cyberbullying, but also recognizes the potential for anonymity to facilitate activism and whistleblowing.
Fitzsimmons advocates for a more nuanced approach to online anonymity, suggesting that while it should not be used to shield perpetrators of hate speech or harassment, it should be protected for those who are seeking to expose wrongdoing or speak out against injustice.
He emphasizes the importance of moral outrage and collective action in holding individuals and institutions accountable for unethical behavior, whether it occurs online or offline.

16. The Controversial Figure of Rob Ford:

Fitzsimmons dives into the controversial figure of Rob Ford, the former mayor of Toronto, known for his public intoxication, drug use, and erratic behavior.
He humorously dissects Ford’s infamous press conference, highlighting his self-aggrandizing persona, his penchant for blaming others for his actions, and his delusional belief that he could physically defeat Mike Tyson.
Fitzsimmons examines the complex and often contradictory nature of Ford’s public image, acknowledging his support among the working class but also recognizing the dangers of a leader who is clearly unfit for office.
He raises questions about the responsibility of the media and the public in holding political leaders accountable for their actions, particularly when those actions are clearly detrimental to their constituents.

17. The Importance of Finding Joy in the Simple Things:

Fitzsimmons emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the simple things, sharing his own passion for music and his love of classic rock bands like Bon Jovi and Whitesnake.
He celebrates the power of music to transcend taste and judgment, arguing that personal enjoyment should not be dictated by societal norms or critical acclaim.
Fitzsimmons encourages a sense of playfulness and a willingness to embrace the things that bring you genuine happiness, even if they are considered “uncool” or “unpopular.”
He reminds us that life is short and should be filled with things that make you smile, even if those things are not necessarily shared by everyone else.

18. The Power of Live Performance and the Importance of Destination Venues:

Fitzsimmons reflects on the unique energy and intimacy of live stand-up comedy, highlighting the immediate feedback and the connection forged between performer and audience.
He discusses the allure of performing in destination venues, such as Las Vegas, where comedians can build a loyal following and become synonymous with a specific location.
Fitzsimmons emphasizes the importance of establishing a brand and a unique identity as a comedian, recognizing that these factors are crucial to attracting and retaining audiences.
He celebrates the legacy of legendary Las Vegas performers like Penn & Teller and Carrot Top, highlighting their ability to create memorable experiences for audiences and become synonymous with the city.

19. The Enduring Power of Music and its Role in Shaping Our Lives:

Fitzsimmons delves into his lifelong passion for music, highlighting the impact of artists like Jimi Hendrix, Bruce Springsteen, and Miley Cyrus on his own life and perspectives.
He discusses the transformative power of music, its ability to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect us to a shared human experience.
Fitzsimmons reflects on the cultural significance of music, its role in shaping social movements and its ability to transcend language and cultural barriers.
He emphasizes the importance of supporting artists who create authentic and meaningful work, recognizing that music is a vital part of the human experience.

20. The Future of the Internet and the Importance of Protecting Free Speech:

Fitzsimmons explores the potential future of the internet, speculating about the possibility of government censorship and control over online content.
He expresses concern about the erosion of privacy and the growing power of tech companies, urging individuals to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their online freedom.
Fitzsimmons advocates for a decentralized and more democratic internet, where individuals have greater control over their data and where free speech is protected.
He emphasizes the importance of fighting for internet freedom and resisting any attempts to restrict or censor online content, recognizing that the internet is a vital tool for communication, expression, and social change.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“Goddamn, they would get those jokes down to a samurai sword sharpness.” – Fitzsimmons highlights the precision and mastery of Boston comedians in refining their jokes.
“It’s like you’re getting away with it. You’re getting away with it because it’s open.” – Fitzsimmons captures the danger of anonymity online, where individuals can act without consequence.
“It’s a shitty fucking roll of the dice, but it’s the way of life.” – Fitzsimmons acknowledges the unfairness of certain physical attributes, specifically referencing penis size.
“I’ve got friends that their dads knocked them out.” – Fitzsimmons reveals the prevalence of physical abuse within families, highlighting its devastating impact on children.
“If you could separate her from all the controversy, and just listen to this. If you didn’t know anything about her childhood star, dad Billy Rice House, you’d be like, that’s a bad ass bitch.” – Fitzsimmons commends Miley Cyrus’ vocal talent while acknowledging the controversies surrounding her career.

JRE #422 – Greg Fitzsimmons