JRE #1844 – Tom Segura

14-Jul-22

This podcast features a hilarious and insightful conversation between Joe Rogan and comedian Tom Segura. The episode delves into a wide range of topics, including Segura’s journey as a stand-up comedian, the challenges of writing a book, the unique dynamics of podcasting, the absurdity of dealing with hecklers, and the world of professional athletes. The podcast also delves into broader themes like the nature of success, the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the complexities of mental health, and the increasingly strange and divisive landscape of modern society.

Topics:

1. Tom Segura’s Writing Process:
   • Segura’s experience writing his book “I’d Like to Play Alone, Please: Essays” and the challenges he encountered, including the pressure to add humor and the tedious editing process.
   • The book’s themes explore his personal journey as a comedian, his views on relationships, and his unique perspective on life.
   • Segura’s experience with the New York Times Bestseller list and the unexpected success of his book.
   • The podcast highlights the contrast between writing stand-up and writing a book, emphasizing the importance of deadlines and the unique challenges each format presents.
2. The Art of Stand-Up Comedy:
   • The importance of knowing your audience and tailoring your set to their energy level, especially at late shows.
   • The dangers of hecklers and how comedians handle them, including Segura’s experience with a particularly disruptive individual in Baltimore.
   • The differences in comedic styles, with Segura highlighting the comedic skills of Mark Norman, Gilles, and Bert Kreischer.
   • The importance of mastering pauses and building tension to create engaging comedic moments.
3. Podcasting as a Medium:
   • The podcast emphasizes the freedom and flexibility of podcasting compared to other forms of comedic performance.
   • Segura discusses the differences between podcasting and stand-up, particularly the lack of immediate pressure for laughter and the ability to delve into diverse topics.
   • The podcast explores the unique dynamics of co-hosting, highlighting Segura’s collaborations with Christina Pazsitzky, Bert Kreischer, and Sam Rhome.
   • The podcast underscores the power of podcasting to foster deep conversations, connect with diverse audiences, and provide a platform for diverse voices.
4. The Unpredictability of Live Performance:
   • Segura recounts the wild incident of a man urinating on audience members during one of his shows, showcasing the unpredictable nature of live comedy.
   • The podcast highlights the difficulties of managing crowds, dealing with unexpected disruptions, and maintaining a professional demeanor in challenging situations.
   • The podcast emphasizes the importance of tour managers and security personnel in navigating the complexities of live performance.
   • Segura’s experience with the incident underlines the importance of adaptability and quick thinking in dealing with unforeseen events.
5. Bert Kreischer’s “Machine” Persona:
   • The podcast explores Bert Kreischer’s evolution as a comedian, highlighting how his “machine” persona has become an integral part of his act.
   • Segura discusses Kreischer’s reluctance to tell the machine story, emphasizing the pressure he feels to deliver a crowd-pleasing performance.
   • The podcast examines the complexities of comedic personas and the potential for them to overshadow an artist’s true self.
   • The podcast highlights the pressure that comes with achieving comedic success and the challenges of balancing personal identity with audience expectations.
6. The Importance of Feedback and Collaboration:
   • Segura emphasizes the importance of constructive criticism from peers and the challenges of handling unsolicited advice from non-comedians.
   • The podcast examines the complexities of artistic collaboration, particularly the delicate balance between creative independence and accepting feedback.
   • Segura highlights the importance of open communication between comedians, particularly when dealing with similar material.
   • The podcast emphasizes the importance of supporting fellow comedians and avoiding the temptation to steal material.
7. The Impact of the Pandemic on Comedy:
   • Segura discusses the challenges and anxieties of returning to live performance after the pandemic, highlighting the sense of relief and excitement he felt.
   • The podcast examines the pandemic’s impact on the comedy industry, including the cancellation of tours and the uncertainty surrounding live events.
   • Segura reflects on the importance of community and the value of reconnecting with audiences after a period of isolation.
   • The podcast underscores the resilience of the comedy community and the shared experience of overcoming adversity.
8. Tom Segura’s “Pretty Rare” Tour:
   • The podcast highlights Segura’s ambitious “Pretty Rare” tour, showcasing his dedication to performing and his commitment to connecting with audiences.
   • The podcast discusses the unique challenges of touring aggressively, including the physical and mental toll it can take.
   • Segura’s tour schedule includes over 198 shows this year, emphasizing the demanding nature of his career.
   • The podcast highlights the dedication and stamina required for a successful career in comedy.
9. The Homeless Crisis in Los Angeles:
   • Segura discusses the growing homeless crisis in Los Angeles, particularly in affluent areas like Brentwood.
   • The podcast explores the complexities of homelessness, including the legal protections afforded to homeless individuals.
   • Segura contrasts the city’s approach to homelessness with other cities, highlighting the effectiveness of Los Angeles’s efforts to relocate homeless individuals into shelters and hotels.
   • The podcast underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of homelessness and finding sustainable solutions.
10. The Rise of the Cartels:
    • Segura discusses the increasing influence of Mexican drug cartels, highlighting their involvement in various industries, including avocados and limes.
    • The podcast explores the cartel’s vast resources, including their access to advanced weaponry and their ability to operate with impunity in Mexico.
    • Segura discusses the cartel’s control over avocado farms and their increasing presence in various sectors.
    • The podcast highlights the challenges of combating organized crime and the dangers of allowing cartels to expand their influence.
11. The Power of Pharmaceuticals and Public Health:
    • The podcast examines the influence and power of pharmaceutical companies, highlighting their heavy advertising presence and the complexities of regulating the industry.
    • Segura discusses the history of pharmaceutical scandals, including the Vioxx case, which resulted in the deaths of 60,000 people.
    • The podcast explores the ethical dilemmas surrounding pharmaceutical companies, including the potential for profits to outweigh safety concerns.
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in the pharmaceutical industry.
12. The World of Professional Athletes:
    • The podcast delves into the world of professional athletes, highlighting the physical and mental demands of their careers.
    • Segura discusses the challenges of staying healthy and managing injuries, particularly in contact sports like MMA.
    • The podcast explores the use of performance-enhancing drugs in professional sports and the ethical implications of their use.
    • The podcast highlights the importance of training, dedication, and resilience in achieving athletic success.
13. The Role of Social Media and Memes:
    • The podcast discusses the growing importance of social media and memes in shaping public discourse.
    • Segura highlights the power of memes to summarize complex issues and capture public sentiment.
    • The podcast examines the role of social media in amplifying certain ideologies and perspectives.
    • The podcast explores the potential for social media to both connect and divide people.
14. The Influence of Wokeness and Political Correctness:
    • The podcast examines the impact of wokeness and political correctness on contemporary society.
    • Segura discusses the challenges of expressing opinions in an increasingly sensitive environment.
    • The podcast explores the potential for wokeness to stifle free speech and create a culture of fear.
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and engaging in respectful dialogue on controversial issues.
15. The Dangers of TikTok:
    • The podcast discusses the growing concerns surrounding TikTok and its Chinese-based parent company ByteDance.
    • Segura highlights the potential for TikTok to be used for data collection and surveillance.
    • The podcast examines the role of social media in shaping public opinion and potentially influencing political outcomes.
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of being aware of the risks associated with social media and taking steps to protect personal privacy.
16. The State of Modern Society:
    • The podcast delves into a wide range of societal issues, including the rising cost of living, the polarization of political discourse, and the increasing acceptance of extreme views.
    • Segura discusses his concerns about the future of democracy and the challenges of navigating a world where truth and objectivity are increasingly contested.
    • The podcast examines the role of education in shaping societal values and the potential for misinformation to undermine public trust.
    • The podcast highlights the importance of critical thinking, open dialogue, and a commitment to finding common ground in a complex and rapidly changing world.

Memorable Quotes:

1. “Tell me your fucking offer. Not only you an offer, but you’re a New York Times best selling offer. Pretty crazy, man.”
2. “You gotta tell the machine story. Part of the show. If you don’t tell the machine story, it’s like, not for…”
3. “People are fucking ants. They’re animals.”
4. “He’s got a real capacity. Oh, it’s it’s super human.”
5. “We’re gonna look back on this time if there is history, if there is a moment. I think I think our history is gonna sorting through rubble going, ‘What were they doing?'”