JRE #598 – Joey “CoCo” Diaz

This Joe Rogan podcast with Joey “CoCo” Diaz covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of media consumption to the intricacies of the comedy world and personal encounters with peculiar individuals. Provocative discussions range from controversial opinions on social issues to anecdotes about drug use and the absurdity of fame. Underlying themes explore the evolving nature of entertainment, the dynamics of power and control within various industries, and the complex relationship between celebrity culture and personal identity.

1. The Decline of Traditional Media and Rise of Streaming Services

• Joe and Joey discuss the shift away from cable television towards streaming platforms like Netflix and Apple TV.
• They highlight the benefits of streaming, including commercial-free viewing and on-demand content.
• Joey shares how his wife canceled cable and embraces the freedom of Netflix.
• The conversation emphasizes the evolving landscape of media consumption and the challenges faced by traditional broadcasters in adapting to changing consumer preferences.

2. The Influence of Commercials and Sponsorship in Entertainment

• Joe and Joey express their dislike for intrusive advertising, particularly in podcasts.
• They criticize the trend of podcasters inserting frequent commercial breaks, comparing it to the annoyance of television commercials.
• Joey advocates for sponsorships that don’t disrupt the flow of the podcast, such as pre- or post-show endorsements.
• The conversation highlights the tension between monetization and maintaining a high-quality listener experience in the age of digital advertising.

3. The Power of Controversy and Attention-Grabbing Tactics

• Joe and Joey delve into the role of controversy in generating attention and boosting viewership or listenership.
• Joey shares his experience with Alison Rosen, whose podcast gained immense popularity after being fired from Adam Corolla’s show.
• They discuss how controversy can be leveraged by reality shows, where shocking storylines and outrageous behavior drive audience engagement.
• The conversation questions the ethical implications of using controversy for profit and the impact it has on individuals involved.

4. The Uncanny Valley and the Consequences of Plastic Surgery

• Joe and Joey engage in a humorous yet thought-provoking discussion about the uncanny valley phenomenon, particularly in relation to plastic surgery.
• They express their concerns about the potential for excessive plastic surgery to create a disturbingly artificial appearance.
• Joey highlights the “uncanny valley” as the point where CGI or physical alterations become so realistic that they trigger a sense of unease or repulsiveness.
• The conversation delves into the societal pressures that drive individuals to pursue such procedures, and the ethical questions surrounding the pursuit of unrealistic beauty standards.

5. The Enigmatic Nature of UFO Sightings and the Roswell Incident

• Joe and Joey explore the fascination with UFOs and conspiracy theories, particularly focusing on the Roswell, New Mexico incident.
• Joey presents a conspiracy theory that the technology behind inventions like the transistor originated from recovered UFO parts, linking the Roswell incident to advancements in electronics.
• They discuss the possibility that UFOs might not necessarily contain alien beings but could be robots or advanced drones.
• The conversation examines the allure of UFO conspiracies, the psychological impact of potential encounters with extraterrestrial technology, and the limitations of human understanding when confronting unknown phenomena.

6. The Impact of Hard Water on Human Health

• Joe and Joey discuss the potential health implications of hard water, which contains high concentrations of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
• Joey cites a study linking hard water to a range of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
• They acknowledge that while minerals are essential for human health, excessive intake can be detrimental.
• The conversation encourages listeners to consider the potential impact of hard water on their well-being and explore alternatives for safe consumption.

7. The Personal Experiences of Hallucinogenic Drugs

• Joe and Joey share personal anecdotes about their experiences with hallucinogenic drugs, including LSD, mushrooms, and microdots.
• Joey describes the shared experiences and enhanced connections that can occur when taking hallucinogens with close friends.
• They discuss the potential for negative physical and mental effects, including “bad trips” and lingering discomfort.
• The conversation explores the complex relationship between altered states of consciousness, drug use, and the pursuit of personal enlightenment.

8. The Role of Comedy in Society and the Challenges of the Comedy Industry

• Joe and Joey delve deep into the comedy industry, discussing the dynamics between club owners, agents, and comedians.
• Joey shares his experiences with various club owners and the challenges of navigating the often cutthroat world of stand-up comedy.
• They criticize the tendency for club owners and agents to impose their own tastes and sensibilities on comedians, suppressing creativity and diversity.
• The conversation examines the power structures within the industry, the pressure for conformity, and the importance of individuality and artistic integrity.

9. The Impact of Social Media and Technology on Entertainment

• Joe and Joey explore the influence of social media on the comedy industry and celebrity culture.
• They highlight the increased accessibility of cameras and the resulting prevalence of selfies, photo requests, and unwanted attention.
• Joey criticizes the lack of etiquette surrounding social media interactions and the intrusion of fans into personal spaces.
• The conversation delves into the changing dynamics between performers and audiences in the digital age, the challenges of maintaining privacy, and the implications for personal boundaries.

10. The Importance of Building Strong Relationships and Trust in the Industry

• Joe and Joey emphasize the value of forging genuine connections and building trust within the comedy community.
• They highlight the dangers of allowing club owners or agents to dictate a comedian’s career path, advocating for self-reliance and creative autonomy.
• Joey recounts his experiences with individuals who tried to control or exploit him, emphasizing the importance of standing up for oneself and resisting manipulation.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and mutual respect in navigating the challenges of the comedy industry.

11. The Evolution of Comedy and the Acceptance of Diverse Styles

• Joe and Joey discuss the evolution of comedy, from the more traditional styles of the past to the wider range of voices and perspectives emerging in the digital age.
• They highlight the changing definition of what is considered “acceptable” or “appropriate” in comedy, with the rise of more edgy and offensive material.
• Joey credits the internet and podcasting for democratizing comedy, allowing diverse voices to reach wider audiences.
• The conversation acknowledges the ongoing struggle for inclusivity in comedy, celebrating the diversity of comedic styles and perspectives while challenging established norms.

12. The Impact of Drug Use on Performance and Personal Lives

• Joe and Joey discuss the effects of drug use, particularly cocaine, on their performance and personal lives.
• They share their experiences with addiction, highlighting the destructive nature of cocaine and the challenges of maintaining control.
• Joey emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of addiction, seeking help, and breaking free from its grip.
• The conversation delves into the delicate balance between creative expression, personal struggles, and the consequences of substance abuse.

13. The Controversial Nature of Drug Testing in Sports

• Joe and Joey discuss the ongoing debate about drug testing in professional sports, particularly in mixed martial arts.
• Joey shares his perspective on the lifetime ban imposed on Wanderlei Silva, arguing for a more lenient approach to drug violations.
• They discuss the implications of drug testing policies on athletes’ careers, livelihoods, and the integrity of the sport.
• The conversation highlights the complexities of regulating drug use in professional sports, the ethical considerations surrounding athletes’ choices, and the need for balance between performance enhancement and fair play.

14. The Importance of Perseverance and Defying Expectations in the Face of Adversity

• Joe and Joey emphasize the resilience and determination needed to succeed in the entertainment industry.
• Joey shares his personal journey, highlighting the obstacles he has overcome, the setbacks he has endured, and his unwavering commitment to his craft.
• They discuss the importance of self-belief, staying true to oneself, and refusing to be defined by the opinions of others.
• The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their individuality, challenge expectations, and persevere in the face of criticism and adversity.

15. The Impact of Comedy Clubs on the Development of Comedians

• Joe and Joey discuss the crucial role of comedy clubs in providing a platform for aspiring comedians and fostering a vibrant scene.
• Joey shares his experiences with various clubs, both positive and negative, highlighting the importance of finding supportive environments that nurture talent.
• They emphasize the need for open mic nights, mentorship programs, and opportunities for comedians to develop their craft.
• The conversation acknowledges the vital role of comedy clubs in shaping the careers of comedians, fostering a sense of community, and nurturing the art form.

16. The Importance of Authenticity and Staying True to One’s Voice

• Joe and Joey advocate for authenticity in comedy, encouraging comedians to embrace their unique voices and perspectives.
• They critique the tendency for some comedians to conform to prevailing trends or expectations, sacrificing their individuality for acceptance.
• Joey emphasizes the importance of finding your own style, trusting your instincts, and staying true to your comedic voice.
• The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their own uniqueness, celebrate individuality, and challenge conventional norms in the pursuit of creative expression.

17. The Future of Comedy and the Role of Podcasts

• Joe and Joey discuss the evolving landscape of comedy, with podcasts becoming an increasingly significant platform.
• They emphasize the potential for podcasts to create a more intimate connection between comedians and their audiences, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.
• Joey encourages comedy clubs to incorporate podcasts into their offerings, creating an engaging and accessible platform for showcasing local talent.
• The conversation highlights the transformative power of podcasts in shaping the future of comedy, democratizing access to content, and fostering a more inclusive and diverse comedic landscape.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “I just don’t wanna get pitched. I know where you’re coming from. I don’t wanna, I like talking to people. It’s the weird people before you go on stage. That’s the only thing.”
• “Don’t you think though? Like, we think about, like, how many guys that benefited from having Babat run that club? Oh, it was a great club. It was a great club while he was running. I’m just saying that. I’m not talking about the job they did. I was talking how most people ran around thinking they were a handleable deal.”
• “And, again, they never fucking mattered. When I see a comedy club on and on, he comes and talks to me, I look right fucking through, and I don’t give a fuck a damn listening to the show. Fuck you. You’re a fucking pimp and heat is what you are.”
• “I gotta tell you something right now in the last 100 years, and I’m not talking this out of my ass. You could go home and think about what the fuck I’m done with you. Right. Now is the best time that comedy has ever been.”
• “And that’s what these comedy club owners that’s what all these guys are having to pick it on comics always remember, you fucking go away. You worthless fucking faggots. You go away. You go away. We keep going.”