JRE #34 – Doug Benson

This podcast delves into Doug Benson’s stand-up comedy career, offering an insightful look at his unique style and thoughts on the industry. Provocative topics include the impact of honesty in comedy, the evolution of stand-up humor, and the influence of other comedians. Underlying themes explore the importance of originality, the power of personal experience in comedy, and the enduring influence of classic comedians.

1. The Shifting Landscape of Stand-up Comedy:

• Doug Benson reflects on the evolution of stand-up comedy, noting the shift from observational humor to a more honest and raw approach.
• He argues that the “Jerry Seinfeld” style of comedy has become less relevant, emphasizing that audiences crave more personal and unconventional content.
• He discusses the trend of comedians sharing more personal and sometimes shocking experiences on stage.
• Benson highlights the need for comedians to explore new ground and not rely on outdated formulas.

2. The Role of Honesty and Originality in Stand-up:

• Doug Benson argues that honesty and originality are crucial for stand-up success in today’s landscape.
• He emphasizes the value of sharing personal experiences, even if they are embarrassing or unconventional.
• Benson suggests that exploring taboo topics can lead to unique and memorable comedic moments.
• He believes that being true to oneself is the key to standing out in a crowded comedic field.

3. The Impact of Other Comedians:

• Doug Benson reveals his admiration for comedians like Louis CK and Larry David, citing their influence on his own comedic style.
• He highlights the importance of watching and learning from other stand-ups to improve one’s own craft.
• Benson discusses the inspiration he derives from witnessing great comedians like Dave Chappelle, who push boundaries and challenge audiences.
• He emphasizes the value of exposure to diverse comedic styles as a tool for growth and inspiration.

4. Doug Benson’s Personal Style:

• Doug Benson describes his own comedic approach as a blend of personal experiences and strong joke writing.
• He admits to a preference for “strong joke writing” over observational humor, showcasing his comedic strengths.
• Benson emphasizes the importance of both writing and performance in delivering a successful stand-up set.
• He shares his preference for experimenting with comedic ideas on stage, allowing for spontaneity and improvisation.

5. The Role of Cannabis in Comedy:

• Doug Benson openly discusses his cannabis use and how it impacts his comedic process.
• He shares anecdotes about his experiences with cannabis and the effect it has on his stand-up routines.
• He acknowledges the perception that he is always high on stage, regardless of his actual state.
• Benson highlights the potential for cannabis to enhance creativity and spontaneity in stand-up comedy.

6. The Impact of Cannabis on Performance:

• Doug Benson recounts a particularly memorable performance where he was very high on cannabis, resulting in a surreal experience.
• He reflects on the potential risks of performing while heavily under the influence of cannabis.
• Benson highlights the importance of finding the right balance of cannabis consumption to enhance, rather than hinder, performance.
• He emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s limits and respecting the audience when it comes to cannabis use.

7. The Stand-Up Comedy Circuit:

• Doug Benson discusses the challenges and rewards of the stand-up comedy circuit, including the importance of finding the right venues.
• He shares his insights into the unique environment of the John Lovett’s Comedy Club, highlighting the high-energy and close proximity of the audience.
• Benson reflects on the issue of standing room shows, noting the potential drawbacks for both the comedian and the audience.
• He emphasizes the importance of audience comfort and enjoyment, suggesting that seated shows offer a more immersive experience.

8. The “Flashlight” Sponsorship:

• Joe Rogan introduces the concept of a sponsorship deal with a controversial product known as the “Flashlight”.
• Doug Benson shares his initial reluctance to endorse the product due to its suggestive nature.
• He discusses the potential social stigma associated with the product and the discomfort some people might feel.
• Benson and Rogan explore the potential for humor and desensitization in relation to taboo topics.

9. The Importance of Stand-Up Comedy:

• Joe Rogan and Doug Benson discuss the enduring value of stand-up comedy as a form of entertainment and social commentary.
• They emphasize the power of humor to address difficult topics and challenge societal norms.
• Benson and Rogan acknowledge the importance of stand-up comedy in fostering dialogue and encouraging critical thinking.
• They express their appreciation for the role of stand-up comedy in providing laughter and escape in a complex world.

10. The Power of Signature:

• Doug Benson shares his unique approach to signing credit card slips, often adding humorous or nonsensical details.
• He discusses the potential for individuality and humor in a seemingly mundane act.
• Benson reflects on the evolution of signatures and the increasing reliance on digital forms of authentication.
• He highlights the potential for signatures to be a form of self-expression and even social commentary.

11. The Fear of Identity Theft:

• Doug Benson reveals his paranoia about identity theft and his reluctance to sign things, especially in public.
• He discusses the challenges of balancing personal safety with social interaction.
• Benson explores the growing prevalence of identity theft and the importance of protecting personal information.
• He emphasizes the need for vigilance and awareness in a digital age where data breaches are increasingly common.

12. Technological Advances and Privacy:

• Doug Benson discusses the impact of technological advancements on privacy and security, specifically the increasing reliance on smartphones.
• He highlights the vulnerabilities of relying on technology for essential functions, such as mobile ticketing and check-in.
• Benson reflects on the potential for technology to be both beneficial and detrimental to personal privacy.
• He emphasizes the importance of weighing the benefits of technology against the potential risks to personal security.

13. The Surreal Encounter in San Francisco:

• Doug Benson shares a bizarre encounter in San Francisco, where he witnessed strippers being transported in the back of a truck.
• He describes the scene as surreal and a reflection of the city’s unconventional character.
• Benson highlights the importance of documenting such strange events with technology, particularly through video.
• He explores the potential for such moments to become viral and reflect on the growing importance of online sharing.

14. The Nature of San Francisco:

• Doug Benson reflects on the unique culture of San Francisco, citing its liberal attitudes and open-mindedness.
• He suggests that the city’s tolerant environment might contribute to unconventional and sometimes bizarre occurrences.
• Benson shares his perspective on the city’s reputation for eccentricity and its impact on daily life.
• He explores the potential for San Francisco to be a breeding ground for unexpected and memorable experiences.

15. The Importance of Sharing Experiences:

• Doug Benson emphasizes the importance of sharing experiences with others, both through online platforms and in person.
• He highlights the value of documenting strange and unique encounters to preserve them for posterity.
• Benson reflects on the power of storytelling and the impact of sharing personal experiences with others.
• He acknowledges the role of social media in disseminating information and creating connections between people.

16. The Impact of Altitude:

• Doug Benson discusses the effects of altitude on both physical and mental experiences, particularly in Colorado.
• He shares his experiences with working out and consuming alcohol and cannabis in Colorado, noting the heightened effects.
• Benson highlights the importance of being mindful of altitude when engaging in physical activity or consuming substances.
• He explores the unique challenges and opportunities associated with living at high elevations.

17. The Challenges of Stand-Up Comedy:

• Doug Benson shares his experiences with the challenges of the stand-up comedy world, including the physical demands of performing.
• He discusses the importance of physical comfort and the potential for discomfort during long sets.
• Benson reflects on the need for self-preservation and the importance of avoiding situations that could harm one’s health.
• He highlights the importance of finding the right balance between pushing boundaries and protecting oneself.

18. The Influence of Parents:

• Doug Benson discusses the impact of his parents on his life, particularly their influence on his habits and routines.
• He shares his experiences with preserving food in the freezer, a habit he attributes to his parents.
• Benson reflects on the ways in which parental influence can shape one’s actions and beliefs.
• He emphasizes the importance of questioning inherited habits and practices, especially as one ages.

19. The Dangers of Edibles:

• Doug Benson recounts a negative experience with edibles, highlighting the potential for unpredictable effects.
• He discusses the challenges of gauging the potency of edibles and the potential for miscalculations.
• Benson emphasizes the importance of caution and moderation when it comes to consuming edibles, particularly before performing.
• He highlights the need for clear labeling and consumer protection in the cannabis industry.

20. The Future of Cannabis:

• Doug Benson discusses the evolving legal landscape of cannabis and its impact on the industry.
• He reflects on the growing acceptance of cannabis and its potential for recreational and medicinal use.
• Benson explores the importance of consumer education and the need for clear and accurate information about cannabis products.
• He discusses the potential for cannabis to be a source of income and economic growth.

Memorable Quotes:

• “It’s almost like the Jerry Seinfeld route has been said so many times and gone down so many roads. It’s like I don’t see anything there. It’s like, if you wanna do stand up today, it’s like, you know, Jerry Seinfeld, as Jerry Seinfeld, you know, that style is hilarious at it, but I don’t wanna see a new one of those.”
• “You can’t really do… I mean, it’s almost like the the the Jerry Seinfeld route has been said so many times and gone down so many roads. It’s like I don’t see anything there. It’s like, if you wanna do stand up today, it’s like, you know, Jerry Seinfeld, as Jerry Seinfeld, you know, that style is hilarious at it, but I don’t wanna see a new one of those.”
• “I like strong joke writing, though. I do too. I do too. That that can get me through. Yeah. But but you’re right. It’s like as soon as he starts to be too much about, like The best is both. Right? Yeah. Of course. Yeah. I I love anyone who’s a great joke writer and a good performer. That’s that’s unbeatable. That’s like Louis CK.”
• “It’s always good to I I I think that’s a huge part of I hate to give advice to people starting out, but one of the things I say to them if they insist on having some is watch as much stand up comedy as you can. And, unfortunately, we get kinda tired of watching it as after we’ve done it for years years. but it’s still important to to kinda check into it every once in a while because it just ups your game when you know what what everybody else is doing.”
• “This edible thing taught me a lesson, man. I will not eat anybody else’s shit and then go on stage.”