JRE #647 - Dom Irrera

5/13/2015

#647 – Dom Irrera

Dom Irrera, a stand-up comedian known for his energetic and often irreverent style, joins Joe Rogan on this episode for a wide-ranging discussion that encompasses comedy, lifestyle, and even a healthy dose of existential ponderings. The conversation flows freely, touching on topics as diverse as yoga, alcohol preferences, the culinary world, and the fascinating realm of boxing.

1. Yoga and the Art of Napping

Dom’s experience with yoga takes a humorous turn when he reveals his tendency to fall asleep during sessions. This seemingly absurd scenario sparks a discussion about the intensity of yoga, particularly hot yoga, and the challenges of maintaining focus in such an environment. The conversation explores the concept of finding relaxation and rejuvenation in unexpected places, even amidst challenging activities.

Dom admits to falling asleep during yoga, leading to a light-hearted exchange about the surprising challenges of yoga.
The conversation delves into the intensity of hot yoga and the potential for extreme sweating.
A playful tangent emerges about the potential effects of alcohol after a hot yoga session, highlighting the absurdity of combining such activities.
Dom’s preference for “screwdrivers” over vodka shots reveals his lighthearted approach to alcohol, contrasting with Rogan’s more serious outlook.

2. The Hangover Dilemma: When the Buzz Isn’t Worth the Suffering

The discussion takes a relatable turn as Dom explores the perils of being a comedian and the potential for overindulgence. He candidly describes his struggle with hangovers, confessing to setting his alarm for 6 PM simply to ensure he gets enough sleep before a show. This confession sparks a reflection on the inherent risks of pursuing a career in comedy, where the pursuit of laughter often comes with a price.

Dom’s self-imposed 6 PM bedtime is a hilarious illustration of the consequences of overindulging as a comedian.
The conversation explores the disparity between the short-lived joy of a buzz and the prolonged suffering of a hangover.
Dom’s regret over every hangover serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of excess.
The hypothetical scenario of having to endure 24 hours of misery for a single drink highlights the absurdity of prioritizing the buzz over the potential consequences.

3. The Martini Mystery: A Sip of Sophistication

The conversation shifts to the world of cocktails, with Dom expressing a fondness for martinis. This seemingly simple preference sparks an exploration of the nuances of martini preparation, specifically the role of vermouth and the concept of “extra dry.” The discussion touches on the intriguing world of mixology, the importance of quality ingredients, and the unexpected benefits of olives.

Dom’s martini preference opens a door to discussing the art of cocktail preparation and the often-misunderstood concept of “extra dry.”
The conversation explores the role of vermouth in martinis, adding a layer of sophistication to the simple vodka-based drink.
The unexpected health benefits of olives are highlighted, leading to a playful discussion about the long lifespans of olive-loving cultures.
Dom’s humorous anecdote about his olive tree and his dog’s fondness for olives adds a touch of lightheartedness to the conversation.

4. The Kale Conundrum: Embracing Healthy Habits

Dom shares his recent journey toward a healthier lifestyle, revealing a newfound appreciation for kale and smoothies. This shift in dietary habits sparks a discussion about the importance of consuming enough vegetables, the benefits of green juices, and the ease with which one can incorporate healthy choices into their daily routine. The conversation subtly encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being while acknowledging the allure of less healthy indulgences.

Dom’s recent embrace of kale and smoothies illustrates a shift in his lifestyle toward healthier choices.
The discussion highlights the importance of consuming sufficient vegetables and the convenience of green juices as a way to incorporate them into one’s diet.
A playful exchange about the allure of “bad stuff” and the potential for cravings underscores the challenges of maintaining healthy habits.
The conversation subtly advocates for prioritizing health and well-being, emphasizing the connection between physical and mental health.

5. Charcuterie and Bear Meat: The Allure of Gourmet Delights

Dom’s culinary adventures continue with a rave review of a charcuterie board, leading to a discussion about the artistry involved in creating high-quality cured meats. This discussion segues into a humorous exchange about the possibility of turning bear meat into salami, highlighting the intersection of hunting, gourmet cuisine, and the human fascination with unusual delicacies.

Dom’s praise for a charcuterie board sparks a discussion about the craft of making cured meats and the artistry involved in creating gourmet delicacies.
The conversation humorously explores the possibility of transforming bear meat into salami, showcasing the intersection of hunting, food, and adventurous palates.
A playful exploration of cultural perceptions of bear meat as a food source adds a layer of cultural intrigue to the discussion.
The conversation touches on the historical and cultural significance of hunting and the evolution of human dietary choices.

6. The Horse Meat Debate: A Culinary Conundrum

The conversation takes a surprising turn as Dom reveals his experience with horse meat, a controversial food source in many parts of the world. This unexpected confession leads to a discussion about cultural differences in food preferences, the ethical considerations surrounding horse meat consumption, and the inherent fascination with the unusual and taboo.

Dom’s admission of having eaten horse meat sparks a discussion about cultural differences in food preferences and the ethical considerations surrounding the consumption of various animal products.
The conversation explores the potential for cultural clashes when it comes to food choices, highlighting the importance of respecting individual preferences while acknowledging the ethical dilemmas involved.
The humorous anecdote about Dom’s reluctance to tell his horse-riding neighbor about his experience with horse meat adds a layer of irony to the conversation.
The discussion subtly addresses the human fascination with the unusual and taboo, suggesting a sense of adventure and intrigue associated with exploring unconventional food choices.

7. Fear Factor and the Horse Rectum: Pushing the Boundaries of Reality TV

Dom shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of “Fear Factor,” revealing a controversial episode involving horse rectums. This anecdote sparks a discussion about the evolution of reality TV, the impact of social media on public discourse, and the enduring power of shock value. The conversation reflects on the changing landscape of entertainment and the ways in which audiences engage with controversial content.

Dom’s “Fear Factor” anecdote provides a glimpse into the often-controversial world of reality TV and the lengths to which producers go to create shocking content.
The conversation explores the evolution of reality TV and the increasing impact of social media on public perception and reactions to controversial content.
A discussion about the changing landscape of entertainment and the ways in which audiences engage with shocking content reflects on the evolving dynamics between creators and consumers.
The anecdote serves as a reminder of the sometimes-unpredictable nature of entertainment and the constant need to adapt to changing societal norms and expectations.

8. The Art of Opening for Legends: A Comedian’s Perspective

The conversation shifts to Dom’s experiences as an opening act for renowned performers such as Cher and Whitney Houston. He candidly shares the challenges and rewards of warming up audiences for iconic figures, highlighting the pressure of maintaining a balance between respect for the headliner and the need to establish his own comedic presence. The discussion provides a unique glimpse into the world of comedy and the intricacies of navigating the often-demanding world of entertainment.

Dom’s anecdotes about opening for Cher and Whitney Houston provide a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and rewards of warming up audiences for legendary performers.
The conversation explores the balancing act of establishing one’s own comedic presence while respecting the headliner’s legacy.
Dom’s humorous accounts of his interactions with these iconic figures add a touch of personality to the discussion and offer insight into the dynamics of the entertainment industry.
The discussion highlights the often-unseen challenges faced by opening acts and the unique perspective they bring to the stage.

9. The Bon Jovi Incident: A Tale of Awkward Encounters

Dom recounts a particularly awkward experience while opening for Bon Jovi, where he was tasked with attracting attractive women to the stage. This anecdote sparks a discussion about the uncomfortable nature of such requests, the potential for misinterpretation, and the challenges of navigating social dynamics in a high-pressure environment. The conversation underscores the importance of navigating social interactions with sensitivity and respect, even when faced with unusual demands.

Dom’s Bon Jovi anecdote provides a humorous and cringeworthy account of an awkward encounter, highlighting the potential for misinterpretation and the challenges of navigating social dynamics in the entertainment industry.
The conversation underscores the importance of sensitivity and respect when interacting with others, even in seemingly harmless situations.
Dom’s relatable struggle with navigating an uncomfortable request reveals the complexities of navigating the entertainment industry and the potential for encountering awkward situations.
The anecdote serves as a reminder that even in seemingly glamorous settings, social interactions can be challenging and require careful consideration.

10. The “Pinch of Love” and the Joan Jett Gig: A Comedian’s Early Days

Dom shares a memorable early gig opening for Joan Jett, recounting the intensity of performing for a large audience and the unexpected challenges of dealing with hecklers. This anecdote provides a glimpse into the early days of a comedian’s career, showcasing the raw energy and resilience required to navigate the often-unpredictable world of stand-up. The conversation reflects on the power of perseverance and the importance of learning from early experiences, even when they are challenging.

Dom’s Joan Jett gig serves as a humorous and insightful account of his early days in comedy, showcasing the raw energy and resilience required to navigate the often-unpredictable world of stand-up.
The anecdote highlights the potential for unexpected challenges in the early stages of a comedian’s career, emphasizing the importance of developing a thick skin and learning from early experiences.
Dom’s humorous description of his “pinch of love” bit and the contrasting reactions from the audience adds a layer of irony to the story and highlights the subjective nature of comedy.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the power of learning from early experiences, even when they are challenging and potentially humiliating.

11. The Enigma of Cher: A Glimpse into a Star’s World

Dom delves deeper into his relationship with Cher, offering insights into her personality and lifestyle. He describes her as both kind and isolated, highlighting the complexities of navigating fame and the potential for detachment from the real world. The discussion touches on the unique perspective that comes with knowing a star on a personal level and the challenges they face in maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst their extraordinary circumstances.

Dom’s personal anecdotes about Cher offer insights into her personality, highlighting her kindness, isolation, and the unique challenges of navigating fame.
The conversation explores the complexities of celebrity and the potential for detachment from the real world, even for those who are kind and genuine at heart.
Dom’s humorous account of his advice to Cher about ditching the outfits and the ensuing encounter with a fan in Montreal provides a glimpse into the reality of navigating public life as a celebrity.
The discussion underscores the importance of maintaining a connection with the real world, even for those who have achieved extraordinary levels of success and fame.

12. The Legacy of Whitney Houston: A Star’s Tragic Decline

The conversation shifts to Whitney Houston, where Dom reveals a personal perspective on her decline. He describes her as a shadow of her former self, contrasting her earlier brilliance with a later period marked by struggles and hardship. This poignant reflection touches on the fleeting nature of fame, the vulnerability of those who live in the public eye, and the tragic consequences of addiction and personal demons. The conversation underscores the fragility of human nature and the importance of seeking help when struggling with personal challenges.

Dom’s insights into Whitney Houston’s decline provide a personal and poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of fame and the vulnerability of those who live in the public eye.
The conversation underscores the tragic consequences of addiction and personal demons, reminding us that even the most talented and celebrated individuals can struggle with inner demons.
Dom’s description of Houston’s diminished presence serves as a reminder of the fragility of human nature and the importance of seeking help when facing personal challenges.
The discussion highlights the need for empathy and understanding when dealing with individuals who are struggling with addiction and the need to support those who are seeking help.

13. The Mystery of the “Phantom Punch”: A Boxing Enigma

The conversation takes a sharp turn towards boxing, where Dom and Rogan delve into the iconic fight between Muhammad Ali and Sonny Liston. They dissect the controversial “phantom punch,” debating its authenticity and exploring the potential factors that might have contributed to Liston’s sudden collapse. This discussion highlights the inherent subjectivity of sports, the potential for controversy and conspiracy theories, and the enduring fascination with the unexpected and unexplained. The conversation emphasizes the importance of examining evidence critically and acknowledging the complexities of history and sporting events.

Dom and Rogan’s analysis of the Ali-Liston fight provides a fascinating and contentious discussion about the “phantom punch” and the potential for conspiracy theories in sports.
The conversation highlights the inherent subjectivity of sports, reminding us that interpretations of events can vary depending on personal perspectives and biases.
The discussion encourages critical thinking and the importance of examining evidence thoroughly, especially in situations where controversy and uncertainty are present.
The conversation reflects on the enduring fascination with the unexpected and unexplained, reminding us of the power of mystery and speculation in shaping narratives and perceptions.

14. The Rise and Fall of Mike Tyson: A Boxer’s Legacy

The conversation continues with a discussion of Mike Tyson, focusing on his peak of dominance and the reasons for his eventual downfall. Dom and Rogan highlight Tyson’s raw power and destructive force, acknowledging the impact of his personality and the role of external factors in his career trajectory. This discussion explores the complexities of human behavior, the challenges of managing fame, and the consequences of personal choices. The conversation serves as a reminder of the need for self-awareness, responsible decision-making, and the potential for redemption even after significant setbacks.

Dom and Rogan’s discussion of Mike Tyson explores his peak of dominance as a boxer, acknowledging his raw power and destructive force, while also examining the factors that led to his eventual downfall.
The conversation delves into the complexities of human behavior, the challenges of managing fame, and the consequences of personal choices, reminding us that even those with extraordinary talent can struggle with adversity.
The discussion highlights the importance of self-awareness, responsible decision-making, and the potential for redemption even after significant setbacks.
The conversation underscores the need for understanding and empathy when dealing with individuals who have made mistakes, recognizing the possibility for growth and transformation.

15. The Evolution of Boxing: A Sport in Transition

The conversation continues with a discussion of the current state of boxing, highlighting the lack of dominant figures and the challenges faced by the sport in maintaining its relevance. Dom and Rogan express their concerns about the lack of excitement in certain fights, the rise of more methodical styles, and the potential for boredom among fans. This discussion reflects on the cyclical nature of sports, the ebb and flow of dominance, and the constant need for innovation and adaptation to keep audiences engaged.

Dom and Rogan’s discussion of the current state of boxing reflects on the cyclical nature of sports, acknowledging the ebb and flow of dominance and the constant need for innovation and adaptation to maintain relevance.
The conversation highlights the challenges faced by boxing in engaging modern audiences, particularly in an era where more dynamic and unpredictable sports are gaining popularity.
The discussion explores the potential for boredom among fans when fights lack excitement and dynamism, suggesting a need for boxers to develop more engaging styles and strategies.
The conversation underscores the importance of understanding audience preferences and adapting to changing tastes and expectations in order to ensure a sport’s long-term success.

16. The Intangibles of Fighting: A Unique Skill Set

The conversation turns to the unique qualities of fighting, emphasizing the mental and physical toughness required to excel in combat sports. Dom and Rogan acknowledge that athletic prowess alone is not enough, highlighting the importance of mental fortitude, risk tolerance, and the ability to withstand extreme pressure. This discussion explores the inherent differences between fighting and other sports, emphasizing the unique skill set and mental attributes required to succeed in the ring or cage.

Dom and Rogan’s discussion of fighting highlights the importance of mental fortitude, risk tolerance, and the ability to withstand extreme pressure, emphasizing the unique psychological demands of combat sports.
The conversation explores the inherent differences between fighting and other sports, acknowledging the unique skill set and mental attributes required to succeed in the ring or cage.
The discussion underscores the importance of developing resilience, mental toughness, and the ability to overcome adversity in order to succeed in fighting.
The conversation highlights the unique challenges faced by fighters, reminding us of the sacrifices they make and the unwavering determination they require to achieve success.

17. The Rise of MMA: A Sport Evolving

The conversation continues with a discussion about the rise of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), acknowledging its explosive growth and the increasing popularity of its diverse fighting styles. Dom and Rogan discuss the unique appeal of MMA, highlighting its unpredictability, its integration of various disciplines, and the sheer athleticism required to compete at the highest level. This discussion reflects on the evolving landscape of combat sports and the appeal of a sport that combines the best elements of various fighting traditions.

Dom and Rogan’s discussion of MMA reflects on the explosive growth of the sport, acknowledging its diverse fighting styles and the increasing popularity of its unpredictable nature.
The conversation highlights the unique appeal of MMA, emphasizing its integration of various disciplines, the athleticism required to compete at the highest level, and the unpredictable nature of its fights.
The discussion underscores the importance of adaptability, versatility, and a well-rounded skill set in succeeding in MMA, where fighters must be prepared to face a wide range of challenges.
The conversation reflects on the evolving landscape of combat sports and the growing appeal of MMA as a sport that combines the best elements of various fighting traditions.

18. The Power of Observation: Recognizing Talent

The conversation shifts to Dom’s experiences at the Comedy Store, where he has observed countless comedians over the years. He reflects on his ability to recognize talent early on, highlighting the unique traits and characteristics that distinguish good comedians from great ones. This discussion underscores the importance of observation, instinct, and experience in identifying potential and fostering growth in others. The conversation serves as a reminder that recognizing talent can be a crucial step in supporting and nurturing creative individuals.

Dom’s experiences at the Comedy Store provide insight into his ability to recognize talent, highlighting the unique characteristics that distinguish good comedians from great ones.
The conversation underscores the importance of observation, instinct, and experience in identifying potential and fostering growth in others, suggesting that talent recognition can be both an art and a science.
The discussion emphasizes the role of mentors and supporters in the development of comedic talent, recognizing the importance of fostering a nurturing environment for creative individuals to thrive.
The conversation celebrates the power of observation and the ability to recognize potential in others, reminding us of the importance of supporting and nurturing creative talent.

19. The “Natural Wit” and the Challenges of Comedy

Dom reflects on the nature of comedic talent, acknowledging the existence of a “natural wit” that can be difficult to cultivate. He discusses the challenges of working with comedians who lack this natural ability, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and the need to recognize one’s strengths and limitations. This discussion delves into the complexities of comedic performance, highlighting the importance of authenticity and the potential for improvement even in the absence of natural talent.

Dom’s reflections on “natural wit” acknowledge the existence of innate talent in comedy, while also recognizing the challenges of working with comedians who lack this natural ability.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the need to recognize one’s strengths and limitations in order to improve and achieve success in comedy.
The discussion underscores the complexities of comedic performance, recognizing that while natural talent can be advantageous, dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn are equally crucial.
The conversation celebrates the pursuit of improvement and the possibility for growth even in the absence of natural talent, encouraging comedians to embrace their unique strengths and develop their craft.

20. The Importance of Friendship and Support in Comedy

Dom highlights the importance of friendships and support networks in the world of comedy. He shares anecdotes about his relationships with other comedians, showcasing the value of camaraderie, shared experiences, and the ability to offer constructive criticism. This discussion emphasizes the importance of building strong bonds and finding mentors and collaborators in a competitive field. The conversation reflects on the power of community and the benefits of surrounding oneself with supportive and encouraging individuals.

Dom’s reflections on friendships and support networks in comedy highlight the value of camaraderie, shared experiences, and the ability to offer constructive criticism in a competitive field.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of building strong bonds and finding mentors and collaborators, recognizing the power of community and the benefits of surrounding oneself with supportive and encouraging individuals.
The discussion underscores the importance of finding a balance between competition and collaboration in comedy, recognizing the need to support fellow comedians while also striving for individual success.
The conversation celebrates the power of friendship and the importance of nurturing positive relationships within the comedy community, recognizing the value of shared experiences and mutual support.

21. The Legacy of Jerry Lewis: A Comic Icon

The conversation takes a detour into the world of film, where Dom and Rogan discuss the iconic comedic figure Jerry Lewis. They revisit the classic film “The Nutty Professor” and analyze Lewis’s signature character “Buddy Love,” recognizing its influence on the development of the “dice” character played by Andrew Silverstein. This discussion explores the enduring influence of classic comedy, the power of iconic characters, and the cyclical nature of comedic trends.

Dom and Rogan’s discussion of Jerry Lewis and his iconic character “Buddy Love” provides insight into the enduring influence of classic comedy and the power of iconic characters in shaping comedic trends.
The conversation explores the cyclical nature of comedic trends, recognizing that even seemingly outdated characters and styles can resurface in new forms and contexts.
The discussion underscores the importance of understanding comedic history and the influence of past performers in shaping the landscape of contemporary comedy.
The conversation celebrates the enduring legacy of Jerry Lewis and his contributions to the world of comedy, acknowledging his influence on generations of comedians.

22. The Evolution of Female Beauty Standards: A Shifting Landscape

The conversation takes a humorous and insightful turn as Dom and Rogan reflect on the changing standards of female beauty, specifically focusing on the rise of the “big butt” trend. They compare contemporary body ideals to those of the past, recognizing the cyclical nature of beauty standards and the ever-evolving perceptions of the ideal female form. This discussion touches on the social pressures surrounding physical appearance, the influence of media and culture, and the importance of embracing individuality and diverse beauty ideals.

Dom and Rogan’s humorous and insightful discussion of changing beauty standards explores the cyclical nature of societal preferences and the ever-evolving perceptions of the ideal female form.
The conversation highlights the social pressures surrounding physical appearance, acknowledging the influence of media and culture in shaping perceptions of beauty.
The discussion encourages the embrace of individuality and diverse beauty ideals, challenging the notion of a single, universal standard of attractiveness.
The conversation underscores the importance of critical thinking and challenging societal norms when it comes to beauty standards, recognizing the need to celebrate individual differences and reject the pressure to conform.

23. The Importance of Perspective and the Value of Old Media

The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of perspective and the value of revisiting old media to understand cultural evolution. Dom and Rogan acknowledge the rapid pace of change in the modern world and the challenges of keeping up with cultural shifts. They encourage listeners to delve into older forms of entertainment to gain a deeper understanding of how society has evolved, highlighting the importance of historical context and the value of learning from the past.

Dom and Rogan’s concluding remarks encourage listeners to engage with older forms of entertainment to gain a deeper understanding of cultural evolution and the importance of historical context.
The conversation underscores the value of perspective and the importance of understanding the past in order to navigate the present and shape the future.
The discussion highlights the rapid pace of change in the modern world and the challenges of keeping up with cultural shifts, emphasizing the need for a broader understanding of history and social trends.
The conversation celebrates the enduring value of older media and the insights it offers into the evolution of society, encouraging listeners to engage with history and learn from the past.

5 Memorable Quotes

“I set my alarm for 6 PM so I can be at my show at 8. It’s ridiculous, I know. But I’m a stand-up, nothing else. I’m a verbal clown.” – Dom Irrera’s humorous self-deprecation captures the dedication and sometimes-absurd lifestyle of a comedian.
“You don’t need to believe it, you just need to do it.” – This chilling quote highlights the emphasis on blind obedience and the suppression of critical thinking within Scientology.
“He said he had to stop doing them because people expected him to lay into them. You could get stuck in a character.” – Dom’s observation about Bill Burr’s Philly routine highlights the potential for becoming typecast and the challenges of navigating audience expectations.
“You find it? Toronto. It’s Toronto. Alright. No. It’s not Toronto. That’s me. That’s me. Stop. No. That’s not Joey Diaz. That’s Joe Rogan goes on stays at Massey Hall.” – Dom’s playful and absurd response to a suggestion that he should find a video of Joey Diaz on stage underscores their comedic rapport and the fun-loving nature of their friendship.
“I always say it’s like sucking a thousand dicks in front of your mother. It’s the best way to describe it to me.” – Dom’s hilariously crude and relatable analogy for the experience of bombing on stage captures the vulnerability and potential humiliation that can accompany comedic failure.

JRE #647 – Dom Irrera