JRE #1973 - Joey Diaz

21-Apr-23

Joe Rogan Podcast #1973 – Joey Diaz

This podcast delves deep into the life and experiences of Joey Diaz, a comedian known for his raw and often provocative humor. Diaz shares stories spanning decades, from his childhood in Cuba to his struggles in the early days of his stand-up career and his more recent experiences in the entertainment industry. The conversation tackles themes of addiction, mental health, and the pursuit of success, with Diaz offering his unique perspectives on a wide range of topics.

Here’s a breakdown of the major topics discussed in the podcast:

Joey Diaz’s Book, “Tremendous: The Life of a Comedy Savage”

Diaz discusses the writing process of his book, “Tremendous,” which chronicles his life and experiences. He emphasizes that he’s lived a “tremendous” life, both in terms of its highs and lows.
Diaz highlights the many times he’s had to start over in life, from his early days in Cuba to his struggles in the US. He shares stories of hustling and even breaking the law, giving readers a glimpse into his hard-knock upbringing.
The book serves as a testament to Diaz’s resilience and determination, showcasing his ability to overcome adversity. It provides an intimate look into the making of a comedian, with Diaz’s raw and unflinching honesty.
Diaz’s book is a blend of dark humor and personal reflection, capturing his unique brand of comedy and the stories that shaped him. It’s a must-read for fans of Diaz and anyone interested in the world of stand-up.

Joe Rogan and Joey Diaz’s Friendship

Rogan shares his initial impressions of Diaz, finding him a unique combination of comedian and “degenerate pool hall person.”
Diaz’s unfiltered personality and willingness to push boundaries made him a refreshing change from the actors Rogan was accustomed to in Los Angeles. The two quickly bonded over their shared experiences and sense of humor.
The podcast explores anecdotes from their early days, such as Diaz’s notorious behavior on the set of “NewsRadio” and his affinity for “shrimp cocktail” in the executive greenroom. Their friendship transcended typical Hollywood social circles.
Rogan highlights the comfort he found in Diaz’s authenticity, something he hadn’t experienced with many actors. He describes their bond as one built on mutual understanding and appreciation.

Joey Diaz’s Early Days in Stand-up

Diaz shares stories of his initial success at the Comedy Store, which helped him gain a foothold in the Los Angeles comedy scene.
Diaz recounts a pivotal meeting at HBO in 1998, where he pitched a show based on his experiences working in a funeral parlor. The meeting was surprisingly positive, with executives expressing interest, but ultimately the project fell through due to network fears about funeral-themed shows.
Diaz’s unique perspective on life and death stemming from his experiences with dead bodies is highlighted, emphasizing how his childhood upbringing influenced his world view.
Diaz’s comedic voice began to fully blossom, fueled by his unique life experiences and willingness to share even the darkest aspects of his past. These early days laid the foundation for his unique brand of humor.

Joey Diaz’s Experiences with Death and the Funeral Industry

Diaz details the psychological impact of attending numerous wakes as a child, revealing how those experiences shaped his views on death and mortality.
He shares his experiences working in a funeral parlor with his friend, highlighting the emotional toll of constantly handling dead bodies and the desensitization that can occur. Diaz’s perspective on the funeral industry is both personal and critical, exposing the inherent “scam” involved in the business.
Diaz discusses the various cultures and traditions surrounding death, from embalming to cremation to Viking funeral practices. He examines the different ways humans have sought to deal with death throughout history.
The conversation delves into the complexities of human mortality, questioning the nature of the soul and the lingering energy that seems to emanate from living beings. Diaz’s experiences provide a unique lens through which to explore these existential themes.

Addiction and Mental Health

Diaz discusses his struggles with addiction, particularly his use of Xanax and its impact on his mental health. He describes the anxiety, panic attacks, and withdrawal symptoms he experienced, offering a raw and honest account of his personal journey.
He details his experiences with high tolerance to drugs and alcohol, attributing it to his upbringing and early exposure to various substances. His story highlights the complexities of addiction, where even seemingly benign substances can become deeply problematic.
Diaz reveals his method for gradually transitioning off Xanax, emphasizing the dangers of quitting cold turkey and the need for careful management. He provides a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of Benzodiazepine addiction.
The conversation touches on the importance of mental health awareness and the need for proper support systems to help those struggling with addiction. Diaz’s story serves as a reminder of the pervasive nature of addiction and the challenges of recovery.

The Importance of Stand-up Comedy

Diaz highlights the significance of stand-up comedy in his life, explaining how it became his escape from a difficult childhood and a way to express himself. He emphasizes that for him, stand-up isn’t just a career but a passion.
Diaz describes the unique community of stand-up comics, their shared struggles, and the camaraderie they forge through their craft. He explains how the Comedy Store became a haven for him, a place where he could connect with other comedians and refine his art.
Diaz’s perspective on the evolution of stand-up, from the early days of open mics to the rise of podcasts and online platforms, is insightful. He emphasizes how the internet revolutionized the way comics connect with audiences and how it allowed him to achieve a new level of success.
Diaz shares his plans for returning to stand-up, detailing his commitment to his craft and his desire to focus solely on his art. He expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he’s had in other areas of the entertainment industry, but his passion for stand-up remains steadfast.

Joey Diaz’s Perspective on the World

Diaz shares his skepticism of politics, believing that it’s a distraction from real issues. He expresses his cynicism towards politicians and the media, highlighting the disconnect between those in power and the average citizen.
Diaz criticizes the defund-the-police movement, believing it’s a misguided approach to addressing crime. He argues that instead of defunding, police officers need better funding, training, and respect. He emphasizes the importance of law enforcement and the role it plays in maintaining order and peace.
Diaz touches on the societal changes he’s witnessed over the years, including the erosion of faith in institutions, the increasing political polarization, and the impact of the internet. He reflects on how these changes have impacted his life and his perspective on the world.
Diaz emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility, suggesting that people should be given the freedom to make their own choices, even if those choices lead to negative consequences. He expresses a belief in personal accountability and the ability to shape one’s own destiny.

The Role of Drugs in Society

Diaz discusses the dangers of fentanyl and the widespread contamination of drugs in Los Angeles. He urges caution when using any substance, even prescription medications, highlighting the risk of overdoses and other complications.
Diaz shares his views on the opioid epidemic and the ease with which people are prescribed pain pills, arguing that they can actually promote more pain and addiction. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of over-prescription and the need for more responsible pain management.
Diaz expresses his skepticism towards the legal status of marijuana, believing that it’s unfairly stigmatized while other harmful substances, like alcohol and gambling, are readily available. He advocates for greater freedom of choice and less government interference in personal decisions.
Diaz’s perspective on drugs is pragmatic, acknowledging their potential benefits and dangers. He emphasizes the importance of being informed and taking personal responsibility when using any substance, recognizing that the choices we make have consequences.

Joey Diaz’s Experience with the Comedy Store

Diaz recounts his experience with anxiety and panic attacks at the Comedy Store, leading to his use of Xanax. He shares his story of a particularly harrowing episode where he passed out on stage and woke up mid-set, highlighting the risks associated with both anxiety and benzodiazepines.
Diaz details his journey to overcome Xanax addiction, emphasizing the importance of gradual tapering and the challenges of withdrawal. He shares his experiences with therapy and other interventions that helped him manage his anxiety and addiction.
Diaz’s story highlights the pressures and anxieties inherent in the stand-up comedy world, with its relentless performance demands and constant pressure to succeed. His experiences serve as a reminder that even successful comedians can struggle with mental health challenges.
Diaz emphasizes the importance of finding a support system and seeking professional help when needed. He acknowledges the value of therapy and other interventions in managing anxiety and overcoming addiction.

Music and Entertainment

Diaz discusses his love for music, sharing his thoughts on Led Zeppelin, Soundgarden, and other iconic bands. He explores the power of music to evoke memories and emotions, and how it can transport him back to specific moments in his life.
Diaz shares his experiences with other comedians and entertainers, including Eddie Griffin, TK Kirkland, and Jamar Neighbors. He details their comedic styles and the impact they had on him as a performer, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and mentorship within the entertainment industry.
Diaz touches on the changing landscape of entertainment, discussing the rise of podcasts and YouTube as platforms for comedians and musicians. He reflects on the importance of adapting to technological shifts and finding new ways to reach audiences.
Diaz’s perspective on the entertainment industry is both personal and insightful. He highlights the importance of passion, resilience, and finding a community of support. His experiences offer valuable lessons for aspiring comedians and anyone interested in the world of entertainment.

Joey Diaz’s Perspective on Success

Diaz discusses the importance of setting goals and making a plan. He emphasizes that even though he’s achieved a level of success, he’s still constantly striving for more.
Diaz highlights the role of luck and opportunity in his journey. He acknowledges that he’s been fortunate to ride the wave of various trends and technological shifts, but he also emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication.
Diaz shares his experiences with the highs and lows of the entertainment industry, from his early days of hustling to his more recent successes. He offers a realistic perspective on the industry, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in the arts.
Diaz’s perspective on success is grounded in reality, acknowledging the importance of both hard work and a little bit of luck. He encourages listeners to pursue their passions with unwavering determination and to never give up on their dreams.

The Importance of Community

Diaz emphasizes the importance of community and the need for support systems. He highlights the value of finding a group of like-minded individuals, whether it’s in the stand-up comedy world or elsewhere in life. He acknowledges the role of his friends and mentors in his journey, highlighting the importance of having people to lean on.
Diaz discusses his decision to open a comedy club, The Laugh Factory in Austin, Texas. He explains his desire to create a welcoming and supportive environment for comedians, a space where they can connect, collaborate, and grow. He recognizes the importance of community for artists, especially in a competitive and challenging industry.
Diaz’s experiences highlight the power of community to inspire, motivate, and support individuals. He emphasizes the importance of fostering connections and building relationships, both personally and professionally.
The podcast serves as a reminder of the importance of finding a sense of belonging and the value of having a supportive network of people. Diaz’s journey is a testament to the power of community to lift people up and help them achieve their goals.

Memorable Quotes

“I’m proud that I put a book together. I’m very proud that I found alternatives that I have to keep bothering people at clubs to put me on. Yeah. And you know, well Joe Rogan sucks. Mitzi Shaw never gave me the love I needed. I blew off Kennison. I don’t want to hear that shit.”
“I just don’t like it. I didn’t like having that weapon. I don’t like having it. I have a 45 in my car. And then on the day I flew back here. I’ll never forget that I had that I gave him back the AR and I had the 9mm the 45 and The people call me they’re like you bring in a weapon with you on the plane because I flew on a private plane I’m during COVID I had the cats and shit, you know, huh?”
“You know, I was a little fucking fruitcake when I came from Cuba. You know, I sucked the pacifier, thought I was six. So after like I was three, they took him away from you, but I’d hide him in strategic places. And whenever shit got danged Like go over suck it put it down. I fucking go back to what was going on here”
“It’s so fun. No I’m talking about the withdrawal the shit you went through. All the withdrawals are horrible but it’s funny now when I Do shit. I always remember like I had to do something in the city a couple weeks ago I go for an audition I was putting out my suit. I go Insert Xanax now. This is when I would be putting the Xanax. I would my anxiety would start creeping up on me”
“People just changed their priorities man. And it happens all the fucking time. You know, you think about the two dudes who were in Guns N’ Roses the one guy is he? That just left. What does he feel like today? Mmm? You know didn’t you have a guy on from Soundgarden?”

JRE #1973 – Joey Diaz