JRE #1983 - Kim Congdon & Sara Weinshenk

10-May-23

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This Joe Rogan podcast features Kim Congdon and Sara Weinshenk, stand-up comics and hosts of the “This Bitch” podcast. The conversation touches upon a wide range of topics, from their early days in comedy to their thoughts on current events and societal trends.

Here are some of the major topics discussed in the podcast, along with a brief summary of each:

1. Kill Tony and its Impact on Stand-Up Comedy:

Kill Tony is a live comedy show known for its unique format where comics have a short time to perform and can be “killed” (told to leave) by the audience.
Congdon and Weinshenk discuss how Kill Tony helped them develop their comedic voices and gain early exposure in the industry.
They praise Tony Hinchcliffe, the host of the show, for his talent and ability to create a supportive and challenging environment for comics.
The podcast explores the role of live comedy shows in fostering new talent and pushing creative boundaries.

2. The Hilarious World of Trader Joe’s Snacks:

The conversation touches upon the unique and often bizarre combinations of flavors found in Trader Joe’s snacks.
Congdon and Weinshenk joke about how Trader Joe’s snacks seem like they were designed by an alien who doesn’t fully understand grocery stores.
They poke fun at the lack of consistency in flavor profiles, suggesting that Trader Joe’s snacks are more about an experimental approach than a cohesive culinary vision.
This lighthearted discussion highlights the cultural impact of Trader Joe’s and the fascination with its eclectic offerings.

3. Food Detours and the Culinary Experience:

The podcast touches upon the shared love for food and the importance of trying new cuisines during travel.
Congdon and Weinshenk share stories of their food detours and the joy of discovering new culinary experiences.
They emphasize that food can be a powerful reason to travel and a way to connect with different cultures.
The conversation highlights the role of food in enriching life experiences and fostering a sense of adventure.

4. The Rise of the “Soft Girl” Era:

Weinshenk reveals her current “soft girl” era, characterized by a focus on self-care, kindness, and a more gentle approach to life.
The discussion touches upon the cultural shift towards a softer, more empathetic approach to relationships and self-expression.
They discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health and embracing a more mindful and gentle way of being.
The podcast explores how societal norms are evolving and influencing individual attitudes and behavior.

5. Mark Zuckerberg’s Unexpected Jiu-Jitsu Success:

Congdon and Weinshenk express surprise and admiration for Mark Zuckerberg’s recent gold medal win in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition.
They discuss the unexpected athletic talent of the tech mogul and his commitment to training.
They highlight Zuckerberg’s willingness to step outside his comfort zone and embrace a new challenge, illustrating his dedication to personal growth.
The conversation explores the impact of embracing new activities and challenges on personal development and success.

6. The Power of Solo Ranting and Mental Illness:

The podcast delves into the unique comedic talent of comics like Bill Burr and Tim Dillon, who are known for their ability to rant and go on tangents.
Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the benefits of practicing solo ranting as a way to develop comedic timing, voice, and stamina.
They acknowledge that solo ranting can feel mentally challenging and even make one feel a bit “mentally ill,” but emphasize its importance in refining their craft.
The conversation explores the creative process of comedy and the importance of pushing boundaries and exploring unconventional approaches.

7. The Pandemic’s Impact on Stand-Up Comedy and Mental Health:

The podcast discusses the challenges faced by comics during the pandemic, including the cancellation of live shows and the rise of Zoom performances.
Congdon and Weinshenk share their experiences with the isolation and uncertainty of the pandemic, and the mental toll it took on their craft.
They reflect upon their own coping mechanisms, including solo podcasting and engaging in unusual activities like livestreaming on a trampoline.
The conversation highlights the resilience of the comedy community and its ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

8. The Controversial Nature of Bee Stings and their Alleged Benefits:

The podcast discusses the unusual claim that bee stings can be beneficial for certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis.
Congdon and Weinshenk share anecdotes about people who believe in the healing power of bee stings, acknowledging the lack of scientific evidence but acknowledging the widespread belief in alternative therapies.
They playfully explore the line between traditional medicine and alternative practices, highlighting the complexities of healthcare choices.
The conversation touches upon the allure of natural remedies and the skepticism towards traditional medical approaches.

9. The Fascinating World of Chimpanzees:

The podcast dives into the world of chimpanzees, discussing a new Netflix series called “Chimp Empire.”
Congdon and Weinshenk share their fascination with chimpanzee behavior, particularly their social structures, warfare, and resource control.
They highlight the unique footage captured in the series, showcasing the remarkable intelligence and complex social dynamics of chimpanzees.
The conversation explores the similarities and differences between human and chimpanzee behavior, and the ongoing scientific research into primate intelligence and social dynamics.

10. The Curious Case of the “Center of the World” Cult:

Congdon and Weinshenk share a bizarre story about a town called “The Center of the World” in Arizona, where they encountered a group of people who believe the location to be the actual center of the universe.
They recount their experiences with the cult members, including their tour of the town and a pyramid structure where they were asked to make a wish and sign a contract.
They discuss the allure of cults and the potential dangers of joining a group that promotes a distorted reality.
The podcast explores the fascination with alternative belief systems and the potential for manipulation and exploitation.

11. The Mystery of Jim Morrison’s Missing Shelby GT500:

Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the mystery of Jim Morrison’s missing Shelby GT500, a rare and valuable car that disappeared without a trace.
They share theories about the car’s whereabouts, including speculation that it might have been crashed and abandoned or taken to a secret location.
They debate who would be the ideal owner of such a legendary car, considering both musicians and car enthusiasts.
The conversation explores the cultural significance of iconic artifacts and the fascination with unsolved mysteries.

12. The Impact of Drugs on Comedy and Creativity:

Congdon and Weinshenk delve into the role of drugs in the comedy world, sharing anecdotes about their own experiences with cannabis and other substances.
They discuss the cultural perception of drug use among comics and the debate about its influence on creativity and comedic talent.
They reflect upon the potential benefits and risks of drug use, highlighting both its potential to enhance creativity and the potential for addiction and negative consequences.
The conversation explores the complexities of substance use in the arts and the need for responsible consumption.

13. The Allure and Dangers of Hemp:

Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the history and potential of hemp, exploring its use as a textile, building material, and source of food and medicine.
They explain how hemp was once a major industry in the United States but was outlawed due to its association with marijuana.
They discuss the ongoing efforts to reintroduce hemp as a sustainable and versatile resource, highlighting its environmental and economic benefits.
The conversation explores the complexities of policy and public perception surrounding hemp and its potential to revolutionize various industries.

14. The Power of Plants and Mycologists:

The podcast touches upon the emerging field of mycology, which focuses on the study of fungi and their intricate connections with the environment.
Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the recent discoveries about plant communication and their ability to share resources and allocate energy through underground networks.
They explore the growing awareness of the interconnectedness of nature and the potential for plants to communicate with humans.
The conversation highlights the scientific advancements in understanding the complex relationships within ecosystems and the need for a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

15. The Importance of Trusting Your Gut:

Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the importance of trusting one’s gut instincts, particularly when it comes to relationships and personal safety.
They share anecdotes about experiences where they relied on their intuition to avoid potential danger or identify a person’s true intentions.
They emphasize the importance of being aware of nonverbal cues and subtle signals that can provide valuable insights into a person’s character or a situation.
The conversation highlights the importance of developing self-awareness and trusting one’s inner voice in navigating relationships and making decisions.

16. The Widespread Phenomenon of “Barn Finds”:

The podcast discusses the popular trend of “barn finds” where people discover valuable vintage cars hidden away in barns or on farms.
Congdon and Weinshenk share their fascination with the thrill of finding a hidden treasure and the potential for restoring a classic car to its former glory.
They discuss the reasons why farmers or families might not realize the value of these cars, highlighting the cultural gap between those who appreciate vintage vehicles and those who prioritize practicality.
The conversation explores the allure of vintage cars, the passion for restoring them, and the economics of the barn find phenomenon.

17. The Controversial Figure of Michael Jackson:

Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the life and career of Michael Jackson, comparing his rise to fame and struggles with those of Elvis Presley.
They reflect on the complexities of Jackson’s legacy, acknowledging his musical genius and enduring impact on pop culture but also discussing the controversies surrounding his personal life.
They explore the unique challenges of navigating fame at an early age and the pressures of maintaining a public persona that often contradicts one’s true self.
The conversation delves into the ongoing debate surrounding Michael Jackson’s character and the enduring power of his music and performances.

18. The Impact of Technology on the Human Experience:

Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the impact of technology on human relationships, creativity, and the perception of reality.
They ponder the future of virtual reality and the potential for creating increasingly immersive and indistinguishable experiences from real life.
They share their concerns about the potential for technology to blur the lines between reality and fantasy, leading to a loss of connection with the natural world and human interaction.
The conversation explores the ethical and philosophical implications of advanced technology and the need for a balanced approach to its development and use.

19. The CIA’s Interest in Altered States of Consciousness:

Congdon and Weinshenk discuss a CIA document that outlines an investigation into the “Gateway Process,” a technique aimed at altering consciousness and potentially escaping the confines of time and space.
They share their fascination with the CIA’s interest in these unconventional practices, and the potential for government agencies to explore mind control and advanced technologies.
They explore the scientific validity of the “Gateway Process,” acknowledging the lack of concrete evidence but acknowledging the ongoing research into altered states of consciousness.
The conversation delves into the world of conspiracy theories and the intrigue surrounding government secrets and covert operations.

20. The Perils of Time Shares and the Lure of Luxury Vacations:

Congdon and Weinshenk share a humorous story about their experience with a time share sales pitch, highlighting the manipulative tactics used by salespeople and the ease with which they can lure unsuspecting customers.
They discuss the potential dangers of succumbing to pressure and the need to be wary of high-pressure sales tactics.
They reflect on the allure of luxury vacations and the desire to escape the ordinary, but emphasize the need for careful planning and research before committing to a time share purchase.
The conversation explores the consumer psychology behind time share sales and the importance of being a savvy and informed consumer.

21. The Eerie Beauty of Hawaii’s Volcanoes:

The podcast touches upon the unique beauty and dangers of Hawaii’s volcanoes, sharing a story about a Mustang that was engulfed by lava during an eruption.
Congdon and Weinshenk discuss the power of nature and the potential for natural disasters to reshape the landscape and human lives.
They explore the fascination with volcanoes, acknowledging their destructive power but also recognizing their role in creating the islands and ecosystems of Hawaii.
The conversation highlights the importance of respecting the power of nature and understanding its potential impacts on human society.

22. The “Horny Ass Eyes” and the Perils of Perverted Men:

Congdon and Weinshenk discuss a humorous encounter with a “horny ass eyes” man who tried to trick Sarah into running his dog on the beach.
They explore the topic of male perception of women and the potential for predatory behavior, highlighting the importance of being aware of subtle signs and protecting oneself from unwanted advances.
They share their insights into the complexities of male-female dynamics, discussing the need for mutual respect and the dangers of misinterpreting intentions.
The conversation highlights the importance of speaking out against predatory behavior and advocating for women’s safety and autonomy.

23. The Ongoing Debate About the “Flat Earth” Theory:

Congdon and Weinshenk playfully engage with the “flat earth” theory, exploring the reasons why some people might believe in this conspiracy theory and the psychological factors that might drive such beliefs.
They discuss the overwhelming scientific evidence that supports the spherical shape of the earth, but acknowledge the appeal of alternative theories and the skepticism towards established knowledge.
They touch upon the cultural phenomenon of conspiracy theories and the role of social media in spreading misinformation.
The conversation highlights the importance of critical thinking and evaluating information from reliable sources before accepting alternative narratives.

24. The Search for Meaning and Purpose:

Throughout the podcast, Congdon and Weinshenk grapple with questions of meaning and purpose in life, exploring various philosophies, alternative belief systems, and personal experiences.
They discuss the role of creativity, spirituality, and personal growth in finding fulfillment.
They acknowledge the challenges of navigating a complex and often chaotic world, but emphasize the importance of finding joy, connection, and purpose in their chosen pursuits.
The conversation reflects a common human desire to understand our place in the universe and find meaning in our individual journeys.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“That’s where we met her and I.” – Congdon, referring to their early days at the comedy club OG’s, where they met fellow comedian Sarah Weinshenk.
“Trader Joe’s, they say that the food at Trader Joe’s seems like Trader Joe’s was made by an alien who didn’t really fully understand grocery stores.” – Congdon, playfully describing the unique flavor combinations found in Trader Joe’s snacks.
“Food’s the best. It’s almost the best reason to travel is to try the different foods.” – Weinshenk, emphasizing the importance of experiencing new cuisines while traveling.
“I’m super… I think that’s amazing. I love when people like just… He doesn’t have to do anything. He’s one of the richest people on earth. He just takes a chance and tries to get good at this thing and then goes and competes in this thing. We should all celebrate that.” – Congdon, expressing admiration for Mark Zuckerberg’s unexpected success in Jiu-Jitsu.
“I think there’s something there that’s nonverbal, some fucking thing that they’re giving off and you’re picking up on it. And then you trick yourself into thinking it was just you being like, you’re like, I might be in a mood and maybe like brush it off. You could do that. Then they kill you and you’re like, damn it. You could try it again.” – Congdon, highlighting the importance of trusting your gut instincts and recognizing nonverbal cues.

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