JRE #86 – Tom Segura

This episode features a conversation between Joe Rogan and comedian Tom Segura, touching on a wide range of topics, from the current state of comedy and the impact of reality TV, to the world of MMA and the absurdity of political correctness.

Topics Explored in Joe Rogan Experience #86 – Tom Segura

1. Comedy and its Evolution:

• The impact of reality TV on the comedy landscape – how it has shifted the focus from aspirational figures to relatable, even flawed, individuals.
• The phenomenon of comedians imitating iconic figures like Richard Pryor and Mitch Hedberg – a testament to the influence of comedic pioneers and the search for a distinctive voice.
• The role of comedy clubs in fostering a distinct comedic style, exemplified by the “The Cellar” in New York City and its unique, almost “clicky” brand of humor.
• The importance of constantly evolving comedic material and avoiding the trap of relying on the same jokes for decades, as seen in the example of comics who haven’t written new material in years.

2. The Social and Cultural Impact of Donald Trump:

• The surprising rise of Donald Trump – how his success reveals a segment of the population that resonates with his blunt, often offensive style.
• The role of reality TV in normalizing a more candid and often controversial brand of public discourse, creating an appetite for unfiltered, even provocative, personalities.
• The potential for reality TV to deconstruct the idea of “celebrity” and its influence on societal norms and expectations.
• The disconnect between the perceived “level-headed” image of some individuals and their actual political leanings, highlighting the complex nature of political identification.

3. The World of MMA and the Evolution of Fighting:

• The impact of MMA on street fighting – how its techniques and strategies have filtered into everyday confrontations.
• The importance of physical and mental preparation in MMA – exploring the diverse training regimens employed by top fighters.
• The role of genetics in determining fighting prowess – how certain physical attributes can make fighters naturally gifted for the sport.
• The changing dynamics of the MMA landscape – examining the increased use of mental coaches and hypnotists to gain a competitive edge.

4. The Controversial Topic of Gender Identity:

• The blurring of traditional gender lines and the emergence of new gender identities – a discussion on the challenges of defining and accepting diverse expressions of gender.
• The debate surrounding the use of gender pronouns and the potential for censorship in promoting inclusivity.
• The intersection of personal experience and societal norms in shaping gender identity – exploring the complexities of navigating a world with evolving definitions of what it means to be a man or a woman.
• The potential for future advancements in medical science to allow for more direct and permanent changes to physical sex characteristics, further blurring the lines of gender identity.

5. The Enduring Appeal of the Sitcom:

• The evolution of the sitcom format – how it has transitioned from traditional narratives to more experimental and unconventional storytelling.
• The potential for new platforms and mediums to revitalize the sitcom genre and redefine its purpose and audience.
• The inherent appeal of relatable characters and situations – the core ingredient that has sustained the sitcom’s enduring popularity.
• The challenge of creating new, innovative sitcom concepts that resonate with a modern audience, given the wealth of established comedic tropes and formats.

6. The Power and Perils of Marijuana:

• The unique effects of edible marijuana – how it differs from smoking and can lead to intense, sometimes overwhelming, experiences.
• The growing awareness of the potency of edible marijuana and its potential for negative consequences, particularly for inexperienced users.
• The ongoing debate surrounding the safety and efficacy of marijuana – exploring its potential benefits and risks.
• The evolving legal landscape surrounding marijuana and the potential for further decriminalization and wider acceptance of its use.

7. The World of Boxing and its Cultural Influence:

• The cultural significance of boxing – how it has become a symbol of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of greatness.
• The evolving techniques and strategies employed by top boxers – exploring the nuances of offensive and defensive boxing styles.
• The impact of promoters and connections in shaping boxing careers – how promoters can make or break fighters, even with exceptional talent.
• The ongoing debate surrounding the ethics of boxing – examining the risks involved and the potential for long-term health complications.

8. The Enigmatic Nature of Animals:

• The unexpected behaviors of animals in the wild – highlighting the surprising and often brutal realities of nature.
• The fascinating relationships between different species – exploring the intricate dynamics of predator-prey interactions and symbiotic partnerships.
• The potential for animals to challenge human perceptions of intelligence and consciousness – how animals exhibit complex behaviors and social structures.
• The importance of respecting the natural world and understanding the delicate balance of ecosystems – acknowledging the potential consequences of human interference and disruption.

9. The Quest for Longevity and Health:

• The potential for future medical advancements to extend human lifespans and significantly improve health outcomes.
• The ethical and societal implications of extending human lifespans – exploring the potential benefits and challenges of living longer.
• The importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to maximize longevity and well-being – exploring the role of diet, exercise, and stress management.
• The impact of environmental factors on human health – highlighting the importance of addressing pollution and other environmental threats to our well-being.

10. The Human Condition:

• The complexities of human nature – exploring the conflicting impulses of compassion, aggression, and self-preservation.
• The importance of introspection and self-awareness – recognizing the potential for personal growth and transformation through understanding ourselves.
• The enduring appeal of nostalgia and the desire for simplicity – exploring the longing for a simpler time and a retreat from the complexities of modern life.
• The power of humor as a coping mechanism – acknowledging the role of laughter in navigating the challenges and absurdities of life.

Memorable Quotes:

• “I didn’t know there were that many assholes out there. Like, I kinda knew, but I didn’t know they were gonna organize.” – Rogan expresses his surprise at the organized support for Donald Trump.
• “This is where we are. This is really where we… We turned reality into reality.” – Rogan reflects on the influence of reality TV on shaping our perceptions of reality.
• “You can’t just do it because that’s the thing to do right now. It does have to be genuine.” – Segura emphasizes the importance of authenticity in claiming a gender identity.
• “You really feel like you’re done, though. You really do. You really feel like, man, I really fucked up. Yeah. This is it’s over.” – Rogan describes the feeling of a marijuana edible overdose.
• “People are protesting saying that pool halls were gonna go out of business because they wouldn’t allow people to smoke in them anymore. People had to stand outside to smoke.” – Rogan recalls the initial resistance to smoking bans in public places.