JRE #2116 – Kevin James

This podcast features a candid conversation between Joe Rogan and Kevin James, delving into the world of stand-up comedy and the unique challenges of navigating fame and success. Underlying themes explore the importance of confidence, the role of hype men, and the constant battle against self-doubt, particularly in the face of anxiety-inducing situations.

Topics

Here are some of the major topics explored in this podcast:

1. Early Days in Comedy and the Importance of Hype Men: James describes his early days in comedy, struggling with self-doubt and overthinking. He credits Rogan with being a crucial hype man, helping him find confidence and break free from his anxieties.
   • James recounts Rogan pushing him to be more comfortable on stage and not care about the audience’s reactions.
   • He credits Rogan with giving him the green light to embrace his true comedic self, which initially involved a more “intense” and unrestrained style.
   • James explains how the audience can sense fear and how building confidence, even if faked, can lead to more laughter.
   • He emphasizes the importance of having someone to “let you go” and to push you beyond your comfort zone.
2. The Montreal Comedy Festival: A Turning Point for James: James discusses the pivotal role of the Montreal Just for Laughs comedy festival in launching his career.
   • He describes the festival as a showcase where young comedians could gain significant exposure and potentially land lucrative deals.
   • He recounts how a strong set could lead to bidding wars from major networks, offering a chance to secure a sitcom or other opportunities.
   • He reflects on the intense pressure and scrutiny comedians faced at the festival, as everyone was hoping to become the next big star.
   • He shares the story of “Chicken,” a comedian who landed a big deal despite having no act, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the festival.
3. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: The Anxiety of Success: James delves into the challenges of imposter syndrome, which he still faces despite years of success.
   • He describes the feeling of being an “imposter” and the overwhelming anxiety that can accompany early success.
   • He shares a personal anecdote about a corporate gig that triggered his anxiety, causing him to hyperventilate and consider backing out.
   • He emphasizes the importance of “just getting in” with the first joke and the fear of not connecting with the audience immediately.
   • He highlights the contrast between feeling confident performing for his core audience and the added anxiety of performing for unknown crowds.
4. The Power of Full Commitment: Lessons from Dave Chappelle and Stone Temple Pilots: James discusses the importance of full commitment, drawing inspiration from Dave Chappelle and Stone Temple Pilots.
   • He recounts a memorable experience with Chappelle, who walked onto the stage at a corporate event, delivered an amazing performance, and was met with a standing ovation.
   • He contrasts Chappelle’s attitude with that of other performers who may not be fully engaged, emphasizing the power of “not caring” and fully committing to the moment.
   • He shares a similar experience with Stone Temple Pilots, who delivered an energetic performance at a conference room, showing their dedication regardless of the setting.
   • He reflects on how these experiences demonstrate the power of full commitment and the importance of inspiring others with your passion.
5. The Importance of Community and Support: James discusses the value of having a strong community of fellow comedians and the importance of mutual support.
   • He describes the comedy store as a “home base” for comedians, providing a sense of belonging and support.
   • He recounts the importance of having friends who believe in you more than you believe in yourself and the power of having someone to push you beyond your comfort zone.
   • He highlights the positive impact of the internet on comedy, enabling comedians to support each other through podcasts and other platforms.
   • He reflects on the competitive nature of the comedy world in the past, contrasting it with the more collaborative and supportive environment of today.
6. The Challenges of Maintaining Success: James discusses the difficulty of maintaining success and the constant need to push oneself.
   • He describes how he fell into a rut while working on the television show “Newsradio,” neglecting his stand-up and feeling uninspired.
   • He highlights the importance of constant writing and honing one’s craft, even when the schedule is demanding.
   • He discusses the importance of staying engaged with material and avoiding the temptation to “phone it in” when performing for a receptive audience.
   • He emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries and creating new material, acknowledging the fear that comes with it.
7. The Power of Structure and Routine: James shares his insights on the importance of structure and routine, particularly for achieving fitness goals.
   • He describes his rigorous workout routine, including cold plunges, bodyweight exercises, and kettlebell training.
   • He highlights the importance of writing down workouts, creating structure, and avoiding “fuckery” that can lead to self-sabotage.
   • He emphasizes the value of setting realistic goals, gradually increasing intensity, and avoiding burnout.
   • He stresses the importance of having a strong community and support system for maintaining momentum and accountability.
8. The Role of Diet and Nutrition: James discusses the impact of diet on health and fitness, sharing his experience with the carnivore diet.
   • He describes the carnivore diet as a simple and effective way to regulate appetite and lose weight.
   • He highlights the mental aspect of dieting, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unhealthy cravings and overeating.
   • He acknowledges the potential benefits of a balanced diet, but ultimately advocates for the carnivore diet as his preferred method for maintaining a lean physique.
   • He shares his experience with a natural herbal supplement that significantly reduced his joint pain, emphasizing the importance of exploring alternative approaches to health and wellness.
9. The Importance of Overcoming Fear: James encourages listeners to embrace discomfort and overcome fear.
   • He emphasizes the importance of confronting fears, even if it means stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.
   • He shares his own experiences with conquering fear, including flying, cold plunges, and facing difficult situations.
   • He encourages listeners to cultivate a “boss” within themselves, a voice that pushes them to challenge their limits.
   • He advocates for living life with intention, striving to be the person one aspires to be, and embracing the challenges and setbacks that come along the way.
10. The Power of Community and Brotherhood: James emphasizes the importance of community and brotherhood, particularly in the context of fighting and martial arts.
    • He shares the importance of training with others, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support.
    • He recounts the experience of training with Dave Chappelle and other high-profile comedians, highlighting the importance of having a support system in a competitive field.
    • He discusses the importance of having a home base, a place where comedians can connect and support each other.
    • He highlights the positive impact of training camps, where athletes push each other to new limits and forge strong bonds.
    • He shares the importance of finding supportive teammates, particularly in challenging environments, like training with UFC fighters.
11. The Importance of Continuous Learning: James highlights the importance of continuous learning and pushing oneself.
    • He shares the importance of finding mentors and coaches, acknowledging the value of outside perspectives.
    • He emphasizes the importance of staying open to new experiences and learning from those around you, even if it means venturing into unfamiliar territory.
    • He discusses the importance of drilling techniques to improve proficiency, stressing the value of consistent practice over spontaneous improvisation.
    • He emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges and pushing oneself to new limits, even when faced with discomfort and setbacks.
12. The Importance of Staying Active and Healthy: James discusses the importance of physical activity, mental well-being, and personal responsibility.
    • He shares his experiences with training for movies, highlighting the dedication and discipline required to achieve fitness goals.
    • He emphasizes the importance of seeking support from professionals, like trainers, coaches, and therapists, to overcome challenges and achieve personal goals.
    • He acknowledges the difficulties of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and the importance of battling self-sabotage.
    • He encourages listeners to find what works for them, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and personal growth.

Memorable Quotes

• “You just need a hype man. You need someone to like let you go.” – James reflects on the role of a hype man in helping him overcome his fear and insecurities.
• “I’m still dealing with that imposter syndrome to this day.” – James shares his ongoing struggle with self-doubt, even after years of success.
• “He who cares less has more power.” – James describes the power of confidence and full commitment, drawing inspiration from Dave Chappelle and Stone Temple Pilots.
• “You just gotta have that boss in your brain.” – James encourages listeners to cultivate an inner voice that pushes them to overcome challenges.
• “Live your life like a documentary crew is following you around.” – James advocates for living life with intention and striving to be the best version of oneself.