JRE #617 – Brian Regan

2/25/2015

This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and Brian Regan, one of the top stand-up comedians working today. Their discussion touches upon a diverse range of topics, from the intricacies of the stand-up comedy scene to personal anecdotes and philosophical musings. Provocative topics include the realities of stand-up comedy, the challenges of dealing with difficult audiences, and the absurdity of certain aspects of modern technology. Underlying themes explore the importance of constant learning and growth, the power of individual expression, and the ever-evolving nature of human interaction in a digital age.

1. Stand-Up Comedy as a Craft:

• Regan emphasizes the constant learning and evolution of stand-up comedy, viewing it as a craft that requires continuous honing and refinement.
• He acknowledges the importance of working on material, tweaking jokes, and striving for improvement, even after years of success.
• Regan highlights the importance of finding inspiration from external sources and developing comedic perspectives on everyday experiences.
• He contrasts the experience of performing for a dedicated fan base with the challenges of performing on television shows or for unfamiliar audiences, underscoring the importance of adaptability and skill.

2. Dealing with Difficult Audiences:

• Regan shares his experiences with challenging audiences, including instances where he bombed and the audience walked out.
• He highlights the importance of learning from difficult experiences and using them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Regan acknowledges the role of the audience in shaping a set, but emphasizes the comedian’s responsibility to transcend the energy of the audience and elevate their experience.
• He cites Brody Stevens as an example of a comedian who can transform a tired or unengaged audience, showcasing the power of unconventional performance styles and audience engagement.

3. The Absurdity of Modern Technology:

• Regan expresses his bemusement with the rapid pace of technological advancements, often feeling overwhelmed by the constant influx of new devices and features.
• He humorously recounts his struggles with understanding and utilizing modern technology, highlighting the disconnect between the digital world and those who are less tech-savvy.
• Regan questions the purpose and value of certain technologies, particularly those that seem to prioritize convenience and data collection over genuine human connection.
• He explores the potential consequences of the increasing integration of technology into our lives, raising concerns about privacy, security, and the potential for manipulation.

4. The Evolving Landscape of Communication:

• Regan examines the impact of social media and the internet on human interaction, recognizing both the potential for positive connection and the prevalence of negativity and trolling.
• He critiques the anonymity afforded by online platforms, advocating for accountability and authenticity in online communication.
• Regan highlights the growing accessibility of platforms like podcasts and social media, allowing individuals to express themselves and reach audiences without traditional gatekeepers.
• He acknowledges the challenges of navigating this new era of communication, where both positive and negative aspects of human nature are amplified.

5. The Intricacies of Human Perception:

• Regan delves into the nature of dreams, exploring the philosophical implications of their existence and the challenges of understanding their purpose.
• He raises questions about the validity of dreams and the distinction between reality and imagination, questioning whether dreams can be considered a form of reality.
• Regan examines the concept of lucid dreaming, where individuals can control and navigate their dream experiences, suggesting the potential for unlocking new levels of consciousness and creative expression.
• He considers the potential for the human mind to exist in a non-physical realm, challenging traditional notions of reality and expanding our understanding of the human experience.

6. The Role of Facades and Identity:

• Regan contemplates the nature of facades, both in physical appearance and in the way we present ourselves to the world.
• He explores the concept of identity as a constructed narrative, questioning whether our true selves are hidden beneath layers of social conditioning and external influences.
• Regan highlights the discomfort we experience when those facades are disrupted or challenged, particularly when it comes to changes in physical appearance.
• He considers the role of facades in creating a sense of comfort and stability in a world that can be unpredictable and overwhelming.

7. The Nature of Celebrity and Fame:

• Regan reflects on his own experience with celebrity, acknowledging the unique situation of having a large and devoted fan base while maintaining a degree of anonymity.
• He acknowledges the potential downsides of celebrity, particularly the loss of privacy and the scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye.
• Regan expresses his preference for maintaining a grounded and authentic connection with his fans, prioritizing his comedy and his personal life over the pursuit of fame.
• He advocates for a more balanced and less intrusive approach to celebrity culture, challenging the unrealistic expectations and judgments that often accompany fame.

8. The Power of Authenticity:

• Regan encourages authenticity and self-expression, both in comedy and in personal life.
• He highlights the importance of finding your unique voice and pursuing your passions, regardless of external pressures or expectations.
• Regan champions the value of humor as a tool for self-expression, connecting with others, and navigating the complexities of life.
• He encourages listeners to embrace their own quirks and individuality, reminding them that their perspectives and experiences are valuable.

9. The Importance of Perspective:

• Regan emphasizes the importance of perspective in navigating life’s challenges and embracing humor as a coping mechanism.
• He encourages listeners to find humor in the unexpected and to approach life with a sense of wonder and curiosity.
• Regan highlights the power of laughter to bring people together, bridge divides, and create a sense of shared understanding.
• He suggests that embracing a sense of humor can help us navigate the complexities of the world and find joy even in challenging circumstances.

10. The Value of Connection:

• Regan emphasizes the importance of human connection, highlighting the power of genuine relationships and the importance of spending time with loved ones.
• He shares his perspective on the value of family and the challenges of balancing a demanding career with personal life.
• Regan encourages listeners to prioritize meaningful relationships and to find joy in the simple moments of life.
• He highlights the importance of building strong and supportive communities, both online and offline.

11. The Allure and Danger of Belief Systems:

• Regan acknowledges the appeal of belief systems, recognizing the comfort and security they can provide.
• He highlights the potential dangers of rigid belief systems, particularly when they limit critical thinking and encourage blind obedience.
• Regan emphasizes the importance of questioning assumptions and challenging dogma, encouraging listeners to think critically and form their own opinions.
• He advocates for a balanced approach to belief systems, recognizing their potential benefits while remaining mindful of their potential pitfalls.

12. The Impact of Success on Identity:

• Regan explores the challenges of managing success and maintaining a sense of self in the face of public attention and scrutiny.
• He emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and avoiding the pitfalls of egotism and self-importance.
• Regan highlights the need for constant self-reflection and a willingness to evolve and adapt as one’s career progresses.
• He emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s values and passions, even when facing external pressures and temptations.

13. The Significance of Humor:

• Regan emphasizes the power of humor to transcend cultural differences, connect with others, and create a sense of shared humanity.
• He highlights the universality of humor, recognizing that laughter can bridge divides and foster empathy.
• Regan acknowledges the role of humor in challenging societal norms and encouraging critical thinking.
• He views humor as a powerful tool for social change and for creating a more inclusive and understanding world.

14. The Importance of Self-Care:

• Regan discusses the importance of prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.
• He highlights the challenges of navigating a demanding career while maintaining a sense of well-being.
• Regan encourages listeners to prioritize their physical and mental health, recognizing that self-care is essential for achieving long-term success.
• He emphasizes the importance of finding joy in everyday activities and seeking out experiences that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

15. The Power of the Individual:

• Regan emphasizes the importance of individuality and the need for each person to find their own path in life.
• He encourages listeners to embrace their unique talents and perspectives, reminding them that their contributions are valuable.
• Regan advocates for a world where diverse voices are celebrated and where individuals are empowered to pursue their passions.
• He highlights the importance of personal growth and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.

16. The Role of Chance and Opportunity:

• Regan acknowledges the role of chance and opportunity in shaping his career path.
• He emphasizes the importance of being prepared and open to new possibilities, recognizing that success often comes from unexpected places.
• Regan encourages listeners to embrace serendipity and to be open to taking risks and pursuing their dreams.
• He highlights the importance of persistence and a willingness to work hard to achieve one’s goals.

17. The Value of Humility:

• Regan emphasizes the importance of humility, recognizing that success is often fleeting and that arrogance can lead to downfall.
• He encourages listeners to remain grounded and to treat others with respect, regardless of their status or achievements.
• Regan advocates for a spirit of collaboration and mutual support, recognizing that success is often a collective effort.
• He highlights the importance of recognizing one’s limitations and seeking guidance and support from others.

18. The Power of Laughter:

• Regan celebrates the power of laughter to heal, connect, and inspire.
• He emphasizes the importance of finding humor in everyday life and using laughter to cope with stress and adversity.
• Regan recognizes the role of laughter in promoting well-being and fostering a sense of community.
• He encourages listeners to share laughter with others and to use humor to create a more joyful and positive world.

Memorable Quotes:

• “I just want to be one better than the audience. You know, there are many comedians who can do as well as the audience. If it’s a great crowd, they do great. If it’s a good crowd, they do good. If it’s a bad crowd, they do bad. I always wanted to be want like, I I wanted to be were like, if they were bad, I would do so so. If they were so so, I would do good. If they were good, I would do great. And if they were great, I would do.”
• “Those are the only words he said. Am I right? And, like, like, literally, it ended right there. I was I was I was under the influence of the sacred plant at the time, but it allowed me to relax more. But it was like, I wasn’t gonna get in an argument with the guy about it or or or correct him, but I was I was taken aback by how’s your career?”
• “It’s one of the harder jobs in as far as stand up goes, is doing a talk show set. It’s one of the harder gigs. It’s like opening up Because like when you when you go on stage cold and there’s no one who warms up the crowd before you, you have to get everybody into the mindset. There’s like There’s a thing going on. The way I describe it is it’s like almost like a massive noses.”
• “I like comedy as an end result. You know, some people want comp use stand up comedy as a stepping stone to get to something beyond that that they think is better. And I’m like, well, I I don’t think there’s anything better. I.”
• “And I think ultimately where this is leading is going to be this dissolving of all the boundaries between people. People can reach you. they can contact Brian Rigor where they never could before. People can reach, you know, someone and make fun of their celebrity speech, their acceptance speech. people can do things, they can get closer to you than they’ve ever been able to do so before. And I think ultimately the good thing about that is things like podcasts. and things like that they couldn’t have existed before, they they they they take down this, like, boundary between people expressing themselves and that expression being reached by other people.”