JRE #1620 - Nate Bargatze

17-Mar-21

Joe Rogan Podcast #1620 – Nate Bargatze – Topic Breakdown

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze, delving into his comedic process, experiences in the world of stand-up, and perspectives on various topics, including the nature of comedy, the power of belief systems, and the absurdity of modern life.

The Evolution of Stand-up Comedy:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of constantly evolving and refining material, particularly after releasing a special.
- He discusses the shift in stand-up from maintaining acts for years to producing new specials on a regular basis.
- He shares how he uses opening with new material to gauge audience reception and build an act.
- Bargatze highlights the contrasting approaches between older and newer comics, with the former tending to retain acts for longer periods.
The Impact of Early Mentorship:
- Bargatze recounts how Joe Rogan significantly influenced his early career by getting him a spot at The Comedy Store.
- He emphasizes the profound impact of positive feedback and encouragement from established comics during the early stages of a comedian’s career.
- He shares a memorable experience with Lenny Clark, whose praise solidified his commitment to stand-up.
- Bargatze underlines the significance of those early moments in shaping his path as a comedian.
The Zen of Acceptance in Comedy and Life:
- Bargatze explores the concept of acceptance and embracing challenges, drawing parallels between driving long distances and facing difficult situations.
- He describes how Tony V’s advice to adopt a “Zen” attitude towards inconveniences helped him reframe his perspective.
- He extends this principle to other areas of life, such as nutrition and writing, emphasizing the importance of setting intentions and accepting the process.
- The episode highlights the idea that accepting what is can lead to greater peace and productivity.
The Power of Observation and Finding Humor in Everyday Life:
- Bargatze stresses the importance of being observant and receptive to humor in everyday interactions and experiences.
- He recounts how a real-life encounter with a mistaken identity led to a new opening for his special.
- He encourages others to recognize the potential for comedic gold in unexpected moments and to embrace the serendipity of creative inspiration.
- Bargatze emphasizes that humor can be found in the most mundane and even bizarre situations.
Navigating the Pandemic and the Drive-in Show Phenomenon:
- Bargatze discusses the challenges and adaptations faced by comedians during the pandemic.
- He highlights Bert Kreischer’s pioneering role in popularizing drive-in shows as a way to continue performing.
- He shares his own experiences with drive-in shows, emphasizing the unique challenges of performing in front of cars with limited audience response.
- The episode sheds light on the resilience and creativity of the comedy world in adapting to unprecedented circumstances.
The Rise of Power Dynamics and Masked Society:
- Bargatze explores the shift in power dynamics during the pandemic, with the rise of social pressure to conform to mask mandates.
- He acknowledges the uncomfortable feeling of being constantly policed about mask usage, even in less populated areas.
- He shares amusing anecdotes about people enforcing mask rules, including an encounter with someone wearing a fake mask.
- The episode raises questions about the impact of social norms and anxieties on individual freedoms.
The Perplexities of Per Capita Data:
- Bargatze expresses his frustration with the overreliance on per capita data, arguing that it can be misleading and doesn’t necessarily reflect the full picture.
- He highlights the disparity in population density between states, making direct case comparisons difficult.
- He questions the effectiveness of using per capita data to measure COVID-19 cases, highlighting its limitations.
- The episode touches on the complexities of interpreting statistics and the need for nuanced understanding.
The Fear of Being a Loser and the Pressure to Succeed:
- Bargatze shares his deeply rooted fear of being perceived as a loser, which drove his decision to attend college.
- He discusses the social pressure to conform to expectations and the fear of judgment that can accompany taking unconventional paths.
- He reflects on the anxieties surrounding taking a gap year and the societal stigma attached to being a high school dropout.
- The episode explores the complex relationship between societal expectations, personal identity, and the fear of failure.
The Allure of Conspiracy Theories and the YouTube Rabbit Hole:
- Bargatze delves into the phenomenon of conspiracy theories, specifically the flat-earth theory, and how easily people can be swayed by online content.
- He discusses how seemingly well-articulated arguments, even if factually incorrect, can be convincing within a closed-off online community.
- He highlights the dangers of falling into the YouTube rabbit hole, where misinformation and biased perspectives can dominate.
- The episode underscores the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking in navigating the vast and often unreliable world of online information.
The Enigmatic World of Bigfoot and the Desire for Belief:
- Bargatze delves into the fascination with Bigfoot, exploring the allure of the unknown and the desire to believe in something extraordinary.
- He discusses the controversial “Samurai Sounds” audio recording, highlighting its questionable authenticity and the lack of scientific evidence supporting Bigfoot.
- He shares his skepticism about the validity of Bigfoot sightings, emphasizing the possibility of misinterpretations and the power of suggestion.
- The episode touches on the human tendency to seek meaning and wonder in the face of uncertainty, even if it leads to unsubstantiated beliefs.
The Unfathomable Reality of UFOs and Space-Time Bending Technology:
- Bargatze explores the growing interest in UFOs and the potential for advanced technologies that defy current understanding.
- He delves into the “Tic Tac UFO” incident, sharing the perplexing account of a Navy pilot who witnessed an object moving at incredible speeds with no visible propulsion system.
- He discusses the possibility of advanced military technology being used to explain UFO sightings, raising questions about government transparency and secrecy.
- The episode delves into the realm of scientific mysteries and the ongoing debate about the existence and nature of UFOs.
The Greasy Underbelly of Politics and the COVID-19 Bill:
- Bargatze comments on the cynical nature of politics, using the COVID-19 bill as an example of how unrelated provisions can be included to gain support.
- He highlights the inclusion of a clause requiring the government to release information about UFOs within 180 days, suggesting a political strategy of attaching popular items to contentious bills.
- He expresses skepticism about the government’s intention to follow through on the UFO disclosure provision, questioning their transparency and motivations.
- The episode touches on the often underhanded tactics employed in political negotiations and the challenges of navigating complex legislation.
The Wild World of UFC and the Rise of Women’s MMA:
- Bargatze shares his newfound passion for UFC, highlighting the sport’s ability to draw in viewers with its raw energy and exciting performances.
- He discusses the growing prominence of women’s MMA, with fighters like Amanda Nunes and Holly Holm becoming major stars.
- He contrasts the popularity of women’s MMA with the comparatively less-promoted women’s boxing, highlighting the disparities in recognition and compensation.
- The episode touches on the evolution of sports and the changing landscape of gender representation and athletic achievements.
The Enduring Power of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and the Skill vs. Size Debate:
- Bargatze reminisces about the early days of UFC and the shock of seeing a smaller Brazilian fighter dominate larger opponents using jiu-jitsu.
- He discusses the power of technique and skill over brute force in martial arts, emphasizing the importance of weight classes and the inherent danger of mismatches.
- He shares how his friends, Lewis Jay Gomez and Dave, introduced him to the world of MMA, contributing to his growing interest.
- The episode delves into the fascinating world of martial arts and the timeless appeal of witnessing skill triumph over physical advantages.
The Confident Aura of Fighters and the Hulk-like Fantasy:
- Bargatze explores the unique aura of confidence exuded by fighters, highlighting their unyielding belief in their abilities.
- He shares a story about Michael Bisping, who embodied this confidence and even acknowledged his potential to harm others.
- He connects this to the enduring popularity of the Hulk, where a seemingly weak individual possesses incredible strength and power.
- The episode explores the human fascination with strength, power, and the desire to overcome perceived limitations.
The Weed Game: A Billion Dollar Industry:
- Bargatze discusses the booming cannabis industry, highlighting the rapid growth and significant financial opportunities it presents.
- He shares anecdotes about the challenges faced by cannabis businesses due to federal illegality, including cash-only transactions and security concerns.
- He touches on the ongoing debate about federal legalization and its impact on the industry, highlighting the complexities of navigating conflicting laws.
- The episode provides a glimpse into the dynamic world of cannabis and its legal and economic implications.
The Nuances of Marijuana Use: From Medicinal Benefits to Overdosing:
- Bargatze delves into the debate about marijuana use, acknowledging its potential medicinal benefits for conditions like cancer and anxiety.
- He discusses the risks associated with overconsumption, highlighting the unpredictable nature of edibles and their potency.
- He shares stories about people experiencing intense psychedelic effects after consuming high-dose edibles, emphasizing the importance of understanding dosages and individual tolerances.
- The episode explores the complex relationship between marijuana use, its potential benefits, and the need for responsible consumption.
The Dilemma of Indulgence: Balancing Nutrition and Enjoyment:
- Bargatze acknowledges his tendency to indulge in unhealthy foods and his struggle to maintain a balanced diet.
- He emphasizes the importance of separating nutrition from enjoyment, recognizing that sometimes indulging in unhealthy foods can be a part of a fulfilling life.
- He shares his experiences with the effects of consuming unhealthy foods, emphasizing the immediate gratification and subsequent negative consequences.
- The episode explores the complexities of self-discipline, dietary choices, and the constant battle between pleasure and well-being.
The Power of a Good Workout and the Donut Diet:
- Bargatze discusses his commitment to working out and his focus on leg exercises.
- He highlights the benefits of incorporating both cardio and weight training into a fitness routine.
- He touches on the surprising idea that sometimes consuming sugar after a rigorous workout can be beneficial.
- The episode explores the world of fitness and the ongoing debate about the best approaches to achieving and maintaining optimal health.
The Irresistible Allure of Doughnuts: A Culinary Orgasm:
- Bargatze confesses his love for doughnuts, particularly Krispy Kreme, and his frequent visits to the doughnut shop.
- He emphasizes the deliciousness and addictive qualities of doughnuts, describing them as a culinary experience that can be hard to resist.
- He discusses the importance of distinguishing between actual nutrition and pure enjoyment, allowing himself to indulge in treats occasionally.
- The episode delves into the world of food cravings and the powerful allure of sugary, comforting treats.
The Importance of Imposter Syndrome in Artistic Growth:
- Bargatze expresses his appreciation for feeling a sense of imposter syndrome, believing it’s a sign of an artist who doesn’t take themselves too seriously.
- He suggests that this humility and self-doubt can be motivating forces, pushing artists to constantly strive for improvement and creativity.
- He highlights the pressure that comes with growing success and the need to stay grounded and adaptable.
- The episode explores the complex relationship between artistic confidence, self-awareness, and the challenges of navigating fame and expectations.
The Transformative Power of Podcasts and Understanding the Comedic Process:
- Bargatze discusses the impact of podcasts on the comedy world, allowing fans to gain a deeper understanding of the creative process.
- He acknowledges that podcasts help audiences understand that comedians are constantly working on and refining their material, rather than just relying on pre-written jokes.
- He emphasizes the importance of being open to audience feedback and the value of incorporating new experiences and observations into one’s act.
- The episode highlights the evolving relationship between comedians and their audiences, fostered by the accessibility of podcasts and the growing appreciation for the behind-the-scenes creative process.
The Importance of Live Shows and the Imposter Syndrome:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of live shows, especially smaller ones, in refining material and identifying weaknesses in one’s act.
- He describes how performing in front of smaller crowds helps him identify filler jokes and unnecessary elements in his material.
- He connects this to the idea of cross-training in athletics, where different forms of exercise contribute to overall development.
- The episode underscores the importance of constant practice, experimentation, and critical self-reflection in refining comedic skills.
The Power of Storytelling and the Evolution of an Act:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of storytelling in comedy and how it connects with audiences on a deeper level.
- He discusses the evolution of jokes and the process of adding layers and detail to make them more engaging.
- He highlights the value of incorporating personal experiences and observations into comedic material.
- The episode showcases the artistry of stand-up comedy and the ability of skilled comedians to connect with audiences through compelling narratives.
The Wild World of Cartels and the Power of Dominance:
- Bargatze delves into the world of drug cartels, highlighting the immense power and influence they wield in Mexico.
- He discusses the complexities of the drug trade, including the ongoing conflict between cartels and the Mexican government.
- He shares stories about the cartels’ ability to intimidate and manipulate authorities, demonstrating their vast resources and influence.
- The episode touches on the global reach of criminal organizations and the challenges of combating them.
The Unexpected Origins of Stand-up Comedy and Lenny Bruce:
- Bargatze traces the origins of modern stand-up comedy back to Lenny Bruce, who pushed boundaries and challenged social norms.
- He highlights Bruce’s role as a social commentator and his influence on subsequent generations of comedians.
- He discusses the evolution of comedy from traditional joke-telling to incorporating social commentary and personal reflection.
- The episode sheds light on the history of comedy and the legacy of groundbreaking figures who paved the way for modern stand-up.
The Impact of Bill Burr and the Power of Ranting:
- Bargatze praises Bill Burr’s podcast, highlighting its unique format of extended rants and the creative possibilities it provides.
- He emphasizes how Burr’s free-flowing style allows him to explore a wide range of topics and develop new ideas.
- He acknowledges the importance of having conversations with other comedians, particularly in the early days, as a way to sharpen one’s comedic voice.
- The episode delves into the importance of collaboration and the influence of peers in shaping comedic styles and perspectives.
The New Era of Comedy: From Club Spots to Theater Shows:
- Bargatze discusses the evolution of stand-up comedy from small club spots to larger theater shows.
- He emphasizes the challenges of performing longer sets and engaging audiences for extended periods.
- He shares his appreciation for the opportunity to perform in theaters and the unique dynamic of larger crowds.
- The episode highlights the progression of comedic careers and the different stages of performing in various venues.
The Importance of Imposter Syndrome in Maintaining Humility:
- Bargatze reiterates his belief that imposter syndrome can be a healthy sign of an artist who remains grounded and self-aware.
- He suggests that it can be a driving force for continued growth and improvement.
- He highlights the importance of maintaining humility and a willingness to learn even as one achieves success.
- The episode explores the psychological aspects of artistic success and the constant need to stay motivated and adaptable.
The Power of Connection and the Evolution of Comedic Material:
- Bargatze discusses the evolution of his comedic material and how it reflects his own growth and experiences.
- He acknowledges the importance of staying true to oneself and developing material that reflects one’s authentic voice.
- He shares his experiences with performing in different venues and the impact it has on his act.
- The episode highlights the dynamic nature of comedy and the constant process of evolving and refining one’s craft.
The Power of Observation and the Unexpected Inspiration:
- Bargatze emphasizes the importance of being observant and receptive to humorous moments in everyday life.
- He highlights the unexpected ways in which real-life experiences can inspire comedic material.
- He encourages others to embrace the serendipity of finding humor in the mundane.
- The episode showcases the art of finding comedy in the most unexpected places.

Memorable Quotes:

“It’s the first selfish thing I did for my family in comedy was to get back to Nashville.” – Bargatze acknowledges the sacrifices comedians often make for their careers and the importance of family.
“Funny Clark said I’m funny. Fuck. Yeah. I’m good.” – Bargatze recounts the powerful validation he received from an established comedian early in his career.
“Those people in that 500 bucks…those 500 bucks? We bring them to my life every day.” – Bargatze remembers those who supported him early on and the importance of remembering those who believed in him.
“I think it’s one of the great things about comedy that it keeps you humble because you’re always a beginner every 2 years in.” – Bargatze highlights the cyclical nature of comedy and the constant need for growth and adaptation.
“You can’t have, like, politically correct people running a cage fighting organization. It’s just too ridiculous.” – Bargatze offers a humorous take on the unexpected nature of the UFC and the power of authenticity.