JRE #1082 - Greg Fitzsimmons

2/21/2018

Joe Rogan Podcast #1082 – Greg Fitzsimmons

This episode of Joe Rogan Experience features Greg Fitzsimmons, a stand-up comedian and podcast host. Their conversation explores the highs and lows of the comedy world, touching on the tragedy of Richard Jeni’s suicide and the camaraderie among comedians. They also dive into the complexities of addiction, the importance of physical health, and the fascinating world of wildlife, touching upon everything from eagles preying on humans to the bizarre existence of the Coati Mundi. Underlying themes throughout the podcast delve into the nature of human resilience, the pursuit of happiness in a challenging world, and the often-overlooked importance of kindness and respect.

Topics Covered:

1. The Life and Legacy of Richard Jeni:

Joe Rogan praises Richard Jeni as an underappreciated stand-up comedian, highlighting his unique style and comedic talent.
The podcast discusses Jeni’s successful career, including his Showtime special and HBO specials, and his struggle to achieve mainstream success despite his undeniable talent.
Jeni’s tragic suicide in 2007 serves as a somber reminder of the struggles faced by comedians, especially those who don’t achieve the level of fame they desire.
The episode highlights Jeni’s ability to help other comedians with their material, emphasizing his unique perspective and insightful comedic mind.

2. The Importance of Camaraderie in the Comedy World:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons emphasize the importance of community among comedians, acknowledging the unique challenges and pressures they face.
They discuss the shared experience of performing in front of live audiences and the comfort that comes from knowing you’re not alone in your struggles.
The episode explores the competitive nature of stand-up comedy and how it can evolve into a supportive brotherhood over time.
The podcast highlights the therapeutic nature of comedy clubs, providing a safe space for comedians to connect, share their experiences, and find validation.

3. Navigating the Perils of Addiction:

The podcast discusses the prevalence of substance abuse within the comedy world, drawing on personal experiences and the stories of other comedians.
Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons share their own journeys with addiction, highlighting the challenges of staying sober and the importance of finding support.
The episode explores the reasons behind addiction, emphasizing the role of pressure, disappointment, and the pursuit of fleeting happiness.
The podcast encourages listeners to understand addiction as a disease and to approach it with compassion and empathy.

4. The Power of Physical Health and Exercise:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons discuss the importance of physical health for comedians and the impact of exercise on their well-being.
They emphasize the role of exercise in combating depression, managing stress, and reducing inflammation, particularly for those with head injuries.
The podcast highlights the benefits of strength training and yoga, particularly for preventing injuries and enhancing overall performance.
The episode encourages listeners to incorporate regular exercise into their routines for both physical and mental health.

5. The Fascinating and Often-Overlooked World of Wildlife:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons engage in a lively discussion about the diversity and strangeness of wildlife, particularly focusing on their experiences in Alaska and Costa Rica.
They share intriguing stories of encounters with eagles, mountain lions, possums, and the elusive Coati Mundi, highlighting the fascinating and often-unpredictable nature of the animal kingdom.
The podcast explores the impact of human activity on the environment, emphasizing the importance of conservation and responsible interaction with wildlife.
The episode encourages listeners to appreciate the beauty and complexity of nature, acknowledging the interconnectedness of all living things.

6. The Power of Diet and Nutrition:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons discuss the impact of diet on physical health, emphasizing the importance of reducing sugar and processed foods.
They explore the role of inflammation in various health issues and the benefits of a diet rich in vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.
The podcast cautions against the dangers of excessive fruit consumption and the misleading nature of some dietary recommendations.
The episode encourages listeners to prioritize a balanced and healthy diet, recognizing its impact on their overall well-being.

7. The Controversies and Complicities of Organized Religion:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons discuss the complex history of organized religion, particularly the Catholic Church and its long-standing issues with sexual abuse.
They highlight the widespread nature of the problem and the church’s complicity in covering it up, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for victims.
The podcast criticizes the church’s hierarchy and its tendency to prioritize its own image over the well-being of its members.
The episode encourages listeners to engage in critical thinking when it comes to religion and to hold religious institutions accountable for their actions.

8. The Role of Competition in Human Development:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons discuss the natural human drive to compete and the importance of fostering healthy competition in children.
They emphasize the value of learning how to handle both victory and defeat, recognizing the importance of resilience and growth in the face of challenges.
The podcast highlights the role of sports in providing a safe outlet for competitive impulses, fostering discipline, and teaching valuable life lessons.
The episode encourages listeners to embrace competition as a natural part of human nature, striving for excellence while respecting the achievements of others.

9. The Nuances of Martial Arts and Self-Defense:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons delve into the world of martial arts, comparing the effectiveness of different styles, particularly Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Aikido.
They discuss the importance of grappling and submission techniques, emphasizing the real-world applicability of Jiu-Jitsu for self-defense, especially for women.
The podcast highlights the dedication and discipline required to master martial arts, acknowledging the physical and mental benefits that come with training.
The episode encourages listeners to explore the world of martial arts, recognizing its potential for personal growth and empowerment.

10. The Importance of Kindness and Respect in Daily Life:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons emphasize the importance of kindness and respect as essential components of a healthy society.
They discuss the importance of treating others with empathy, compassion, and understanding, regardless of differences.
The podcast highlights the power of simple gestures of kindness, such as holding doors, offering help, and acknowledging others.
The episode encourages listeners to make conscious efforts to be kind and respectful in their interactions with others, creating a more positive and compassionate world.

11. The Fleeting Nature of Youth and the Search for Meaning:

The podcast explores the theme of lost innocence, acknowledging the inevitable transition from youth to adulthood and the challenges of navigating responsibility and obligations.
They discuss the importance of cherishing moments of joy and freedom, recognizing their ephemeral nature and the need to find meaning and purpose in life’s journey.
The episode highlights the importance of setting goals and pursuing dreams, even in the face of setbacks and disappointments.
The podcast encourages listeners to embrace the complexities of life, finding joy in the present while striving for a meaningful future.

12. The Enduring Power of Music and its Impact on Human Experience:

The podcast touches on the universal appeal of music, highlighting its ability to evoke strong emotions and connect people on a deeply personal level.
Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons discuss the role of music in their own lives and the power of live performances to create shared experiences.
The episode acknowledges the importance of music as a source of joy, comfort, and inspiration, particularly for those who have experienced difficult times.
The podcast encourages listeners to embrace the transformative power of music, recognizing its profound impact on human experience.

13. The Complexities of Celebrity Culture:

The podcast briefly touches upon the unique pressures and challenges faced by celebrities, highlighting the potential for fame to both elevate and isolate.
They discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy perspective on fame and the need to prioritize genuine human connection over superficial achievements.
The episode acknowledges the blurred lines between public persona and private life for celebrities, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding.
The podcast encourages listeners to consider the human side of celebrities, recognizing their vulnerability and the complexities of their experiences.

14. The Importance of Family and the Joys of Parenthood:

Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons share their experiences as fathers, highlighting the joy and challenges of raising children.
They discuss the importance of teaching children values like kindness, respect, and discipline, recognizing the role of parents in shaping their children’s lives.
The podcast emphasizes the special bond between parents and children, acknowledging the profound impact they have on each other’s lives.
The episode encourages listeners to cherish their families and appreciate the unique and rewarding experiences of parenthood.

15. The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Comedy:

The podcast touches on the changing nature of comedy, acknowledging the rise of new platforms and styles of humor.
They discuss the impact of social media and streaming services on the comedy industry, recognizing both the opportunities and challenges they present.
The episode acknowledges the importance of embracing change and adapting to evolving trends, while staying true to one’s comedic voice.
The podcast encourages listeners to stay engaged with the world of comedy, exploring diverse styles and supporting the artists who bring laughter and joy to their lives.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“He was almost like on the spectrum with that. He wouldn’t look you in the eye. He’d be looking down and he’d go really fast and talk with his hands.” – Joe Rogan describes Richard Jeni’s unique personality and comedic style.
“It’s a weird job. We’re weird people. We’re all crazy. I’ve never met 1 of us that isn’t crazy.” – Joe Rogan acknowledges the eccentricities and challenges of being a comedian.
“I think sometimes we need each other to go, yeah, it’s alright. You’re alright. Everybody loves you, man.” – Greg Fitzsimmons highlights the importance of community and support among comedians.
“It’s like, you gotta take take a little time off before you do it. Yeah. There’s a number of sets you do where you’re you’re in the groove and it’s tight and everything feels good and then there’s a number that you do too much and everything gets kind of flat.” – Greg Fitzsimmons discusses the challenges of perfecting a stand-up set for a special.
“You pick up the bags, you feel good. You hold the door open, you feel good. You help someone, you feel good. Like, okay. Let’s this is obviously that we all wanna feel good. Right?” – Joe Rogan emphasizes the simple but profound connection between kindness and happiness.