January 14, 2025 • 5hr 19min

#2256 - Protect Our Parks 14

The Joe Rogan Experience

This episode brings together three prominent stand-up comedians - Shane Gillis, Mark Normand, and Ari Shaffir - for an extended conversation covering everything from current events to comedy industry stories. The discussion provides unique insights into the world of stand-up comedy while touching on major news topics like the Los Angeles wildfires.

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Key Takeaways

The episode features comedians Shane Gillis, Mark Normand, and Ari Shaffir having a wide-ranging conversation about comedy, entertainment, and current events
Major discussion around the recent Los Angeles wildfires, with concerns about arson, insurance issues, and government response
Insights into the comedy industry, including stories about legendary comics like Andrew Dice Clay, Sam Kinison, and experiences at the Comedy Store
Discussion of cancel culture's impact on comedy and entertainment
Behind-the-scenes stories about TV shows, specials, and the evolution of comedy platforms from traditional networks to streaming

Introduction

This episode brings together three prominent stand-up comedians - Shane Gillis, Mark Normand, and Ari Shaffir - for an extended conversation covering everything from current events to comedy industry stories. The discussion provides unique insights into the world of stand-up comedy while touching on major news topics like the Los Angeles wildfires.

Topics Discussed

Los Angeles Wildfires Discussion (41:20)

The group discusses the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, particularly in the Palisades area:

Area burned is larger than Manhattan, with estimates of $150 billion in damage
Evidence suggests some fires were started intentionally through arson
Major insurance issues as many companies had already stopped providing fire coverage in the area
Concerns about government response and rebuilding challenges

Comedy Store Stories and History (1:12:45)

The comedians share stories about the legendary Comedy Store in Los Angeles:

Tales of the dangerous back parking lot with structural issues and potential landslides
Stories about Sam Kinison shooting the sign and other wild moments from comedy history
Discussion of the lack of security and crowd control in earlier days
Memories of various comedians who performed there

Andrew Dice Clay's Impact (1:45:30)

Extended discussion about Andrew Dice Clay's career and influence:

First comedian to sell out Madison Square Garden multiple times
Released controversial album of himself bombing on purpose
Faced significant backlash from other comedians and media
Discussion of his continued dedication to stand-up comedy

Evolution of Comedy Platforms (2:15:20)

The group discusses how comedy distribution has changed:

Decline of Comedy Central and traditional TV networks
Rise of streaming platforms and self-distribution
Story of Ari Shaffir losing his show "This Is Not Happening" over contract disputes
Discussion of Louis C.K.'s successful self-distribution model

Cancel Culture Impact (2:45:15)

Discussion of how cancel culture affects comedy:

Examples of comedians facing backlash over jokes
How social media amplifies controversies
Ways comedians have adapted or pushed back
Impact on creative freedom and expression

Military and Gender Issues (3:15:40)

The group discusses recent military policies:

Pentagon spending $15 million on transgender treatments for service members
Discussion of changing military policies over time
Debate about priorities and spending

Sports Betting and College Football (3:45:30)

Discussion turns to sports betting and college football:

Shane and Jamie debate betting on the Ohio State vs Notre Dame game
Discussion of point spreads and betting strategies
Stories about college football traditions and culture

Comedy Industry Changes (4:15:20)

The comedians discuss how the industry has evolved:

Impact of streaming platforms on specials and distribution
Changes in how comedians build audiences
Evolution of comedy clubs and venues
Role of podcasts in building careers

Conclusion

This episode provides deep insights into both current events and the comedy industry through the perspective of three successful stand-up comedians. The conversation highlights how comedy has evolved with technology and cultural changes, while also addressing serious current events like the Los Angeles wildfires. The format allows for both humorous moments and serious discussion of important topics, demonstrating the unique perspective comedians can bring to complex issues.