Podcasts > 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer > Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

By Tom Segura, Bert Kreischer

In this episode of 2 Bears, 1 Cave, comedians Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer provide a candid glimpse into the life of a stand-up performer. They share personal stories that shape their comedy, from wild college antics to encounters at themed strip clubs. The duo also discusses business strategies like polishing material and holding back the best bits for specials.

The podcast explores the role of substances like alcohol and drugs in the creative process and Segura and Kreischer's relationships with them. Topics of pop culture and boundaries of acceptable humor are examined, as the comedians engage in edgy, boundary-pushing banter touching on taboo subjects like race and sex.

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Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the May 6, 2024 episode of the 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer

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Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

1-Page Summary

Comedians' personal reviews and careers

Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura open a window into how their unique life experiences shape their comedic personas:

  • Sharing personal anecdotes about humorous encounters
  • Discussing how their backgrounds influence comedy
  • Kreischer notes fitness background, shirtless performances
  • McGraw and Kreischer exploring relatable experiences (like runny mac and cheese)

The comedians also reflect on their rise to fame and maintaining success:

  • Mentioning their collaborative efforts in developing material
  • Segura explains polishing comedy bits from real stories/events
  • Showing business savvy by strategically holding back best material for specials

Drinking, drugs, and partying

Kreischer and Segura share insights into their relationship with substances and debauchery:

  • Generally avoiding drinking before shows, but making exceptions (like for Nate Diaz)
  • Bert prefers his own alcohol brand for casual drinking
  • McGraw notes drug use (edibles) in private, avoiding public perception issues
  • Discussing potential influence of substances on creative process

The comedians also recount wild experiences:

  • College party antics that nearly led to jail for Kreischer
  • Camaraderie and awkward moments in strip clubs
  • Recalling themed, eccentric establishments like Chilkoot Charlie's

Discussions of pop culture and celebrities

McGraw, Kreischer and guests analyze the personas and lives of famous figures:

  • Discussing handling of public vs. private lives (Mulaney, Depp/Heard)
  • Admiring honesty of autistic individuals in "Love on the Spectrum"
  • Drawing parallels between their own experiences and celebrities'

The group also comments on cultural phenomena and trends:

  • McGraw satirizing reality shows, then appreciating "Love on the Spectrum"
  • Recalling iconic reality TV moments like "Phone a Friend" lifeline
  • Lighthearted takes on pop culture absurdities and celebrity mishaps

Controversial Humor and Edgy Banter

Comedians constantly toe the line between humor and offense:

McGraw, Kreischer, and Segura explore boundaries of acceptable comedy:

  • Discussing role of political correctness as a guide and potential constraint
  • Pushing limits with provocative bits, catchphrases, bodily humor

The comedians engage in risky, boundary-pushing humor:

  • Inappropriate anecdotes from adolescence
  • Jokes touching taboo topics like race, sex
  • McGraw joking about inventing new racist slurs, then retracting

They reflect on purpose and reception of controversial humor:

  • Noting it comes down to personal beliefs and social norms
  • Using explicit scenarios and wordplay to provoke reactions
  • Pushing envelope to invite audiences to reflect on humor's nature

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Substances like alcohol or drugs can sometimes alter a comedian's state of mind, potentially influencing their creative process. Some comedians believe that certain substances can help them tap into different perspectives or enhance their creativity. However, the impact of substances on creativity can vary widely among individuals, and not all comedians rely on them for inspiration. The use of substances in the creative process is a complex and debated topic within the comedy industry.
  • Camaraderie in strip clubs often involves a sense of bonding or friendship among patrons or between patrons and the performers. Awkward moments can arise in strip clubs due to the intimate and sometimes unconventional nature of the interactions within that environment. These settings can lead to unexpected or uncomfortable situations that may be humorous or challenging for those involved.

Counterarguments

  • While Kreischer and Segura's personal anecdotes are central to their comedy, some might argue that relying too heavily on personal experiences can limit a comedian's range and relatability to diverse audiences.
  • Kreischer's fitness background and shirtless performances, while unique, could be criticized for overshadowing his comedic content or being a gimmick that detracts from the substance of his humor.
  • The focus on relatable experiences like runny mac and cheese might be seen as playing it safe and not pushing the boundaries of comedy.
  • Collaborative efforts in developing material are essential, but there could be a concern that collaboration might dilute individual comedic voices or lead to homogenized humor.
  • Strategic withholding of material for specials is a savvy business move, but it could also be critiqued for potentially depriving live audiences of a comedian's best work.
  • While Kreischer and Segura's approach to drinking and drug use is their personal choice, some might argue that discussing these topics in their acts could inadvertently glamorize substance use.
  • The recounting of wild experiences, such as college party antics, might be criticized for romanticizing irresponsible behavior or alienating audiences who do not share those experiences.
  • Discussions about celebrities' public vs. private lives can be insightful, but there's a risk of invading privacy or perpetuating gossip.
  • While satirizing reality shows and discussing pop culture can be entertaining, it might also be seen as low-hanging fruit in the comedy world, lacking depth or originality.
  • Engaging in risky, boundary-pushing humor is a staple of comedy, but it can be argued that such humor sometimes perpetuates stereotypes or offends under the guise of being edgy.
  • The use of explicit scenarios and wordplay to provoke reactions could be criticized for being shock value over substance, potentially alienating audiences who prefer more nuanced humor.

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Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Comedians' personal reviews and careers

Comedians Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura offer a glimpse into how their unique life experiences and perspectives shape their comedic personas and contribute to their career trajectories.

Comedians' various life experiences and perspectives

Bert and Tom share stories and anecdotes about their personal and professional lives

During various episodes and conversations, Bert and Tom discuss humorous and candid anecdotes from their lives. Kreischer recounts being in a New York bar witnessing a man spanking a woman, which no doubt serves as fodder for his comedic storytelling. In another conversation, Bert and Tom humorously fantasize about what their lives would be like if they were gay, with Bert joking about "wrestle-fucking" Tom, demonstrating their comfort in exploring different scenarios for laughs.

Discussions of how comedians' backgrounds and upbringings shape their comedic personas

Both comedians' dialogues often yield insights into how their backgrounds influence their comedy. Bert, noting his past with fitness, discusses being stronger when fatter and his shirtless appearances on stage, which his audience has come to expect. Phil McGraw and Bert delve into nuanced reactions to familiar circumstances, such as eating runny mac and cheese, drawing parallels between those and life experiences. They even engage in playful banter about words like "chicanery" and "kerfuffle," showcasing their wordplay skills. Kreischer's personal touch extends to his taste in virtual reality and even his fashion choices, like painting his toenails blue, especially after having girls.

Career trajectories and successes of Bert and Tom

Bert and Tom reflect on their rise to fame and maintaining long-term success in the comedy industry

Their ascent to fame is a tale of both collaboration and individual growth. Kreischer mentions his collaborative efforts with Segura in developing comedy material, which indicates a deep sense of mutual support in their respective careers. Segura discusses the evolution of a comedic story and how ...

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Comedians' personal reviews and careers

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Chicanery" and "kerfuffle" are words that Bert Kreischer and Phil McGraw bantered about during their conversations. "Chicanery" typically means deception or trickery, while "kerfuffle" is used to describe a commotion or fuss. Their playful exchange showcases their wordplay skills and adds a humorous element to their dialogues.
  • Bert Kreischer is known for frequently performing his stand-up comedy routines shirtless. This unique aspect of his performances has become a trademark of his comedic style and is something his audience has come to expect. Kreischer's shirtless appearances on stage add a visual element to his comedy and contribute to his overall persona as a comedian. This choice also reflects his laid-back and uninhibited approach to comedy.
  • Bert Kreischer's taste in virtual reality involves his interest in and enjoyment of virtual reality technology and experiences, which he may incorporate into his comedy or personal life. Virtual reality allows users to immerse themselves in simulated environments through the use of specialized headsets and controllers. Kreischer's engagement with virtual reality could influence his comedic material or provide him with a source of entertainment and inspiration.
  • Holding back best material for specials as a business strategy involves comedians saving their strongest and most polishe ...

Counterarguments

  • While personal anecdotes can be humorous, they may not always translate into universally relatable comedy, potentially alienating some audience members.
  • The influence of a comedian's background on their persona is not unique to comedy and can be seen across various forms of artistic expression.
  • The narrative of a rise to fame often glosses over the role of privilege, luck, and industry connections in success stories.
  • Behind-the-scenes insights, while interesting, may sometimes demystify the comedic process and reduce the impact of the jokes for some audience members.
  • Collaborative efforts are important, but they can also lead to homogenization of comedic styles if comedians do not maintain their distinct voices.
  • The evolution of comedic stories from real events might sometimes lead to exaggeration that distorts the truth, which could be problematic if the audience is seeking authenticity.
  • Strategies for crafting and delivering comedy material are not one-size-fits ...

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Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Drinking, drugs, and partying

The comedians have an open discussion about their relationships with alcohol and recreational substances, revealing how it factors into their lifestyles and creative processes, as well as sharing tales of debauchery.

Comedians' relationships with alcohol and recreational substances

Bert Kreischer says that he doesn't typically drink before a performance, but he deviated from his routine to share a shot with Nate Diaz. Tom Segura echoes a similar sentiment, stating that he prefers to avoid a buzz before shows to stay sharp, yet he would also acquiesce to someone like Diaz's request. Despite their general rules, the duo shows flexibility when it comes to who they’re drinking with.

Beyond performance routines, the topic of daytime drinking is discussed. Bert mentions he usually reserves drinking for special occasions or specific activities. He even reveals a personal preference for his own brand of alcohol, named "Poor Oso's," which he enjoys with soda on a couple of rocks.

Dr. Phil chimes in with a light-hearted comment about how a drink can enhance an experience, indicating that these preferences aren’t confined to a specific time or place. It’s clear that for these comedians, their consumption of alcohol is both a personal preference and part of their public persona, with audience expectations sometimes dictating their actions.

Dr. Phil also delves into drug use. Although he avoids public smoking to maintain his image, he doesn't shy away from mentioning his use of edibles, which suggests a nuanced approach to managing private indulgences and public persona.

Exploration of how substance use factors into the comedic lifestyle and creative process

The comedians discuss how they or their audience might indulge with certain celebrities, highlighting a casual attitude towards substance use in their circle. They also touch upon the use of substances like testosterone, conveyed with a hint of casualness by mentioning "getting an injection just because I'm bored."

Experiences with debauchery and wild behavior

The conversation takes a turn as Bert recounts a college party where, while intoxicated, he blocked police cars as a joke, a move that could have landed him in jail. This story exemplifies the impact that drinking can have on decision-making and behavior among comedians known for their wil ...

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Drinking, drugs, and partying

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The comedians discussed their varying approaches to alcohol consumption, with Bert Kreischer mentioning his preference for special occasions and his own brand of alcohol. They also touched on how their public personas sometimes influence their drinking habits. Additionally, they shared anecdotes about their experiences with recreational substances and how it can be intertwined with their comedic lifestyle and creative processes.
  • Dr. Phil's nuanced approach to drug use, specifically preferring edibles over public smoking, reflects a choice to consume cannabis in a more discreet manner, as edibles are consumed orally and do not involve smoking. This preference may stem from personal or professional considerations, such as maintaining a certain public image. By opting for edibles, Dr. Phil can enjoy the effects of cannabis without the visibility or potential stigma associated with smoking it in public.
  • The comedians' casual attitude towards substance use in their circle indicates a relaxed and accepting approach to the use of alcohol and recreational substances among themselves and their peers. This suggests that within their social and professional environment, the consumption of these substances is viewed with familiarity and ease, without judgment or stigma. It reflects a culture where indulging in such substances is normalized and integrated into their interactions and experiences. This casual attitude may stem from shared experiences, a common understanding of the entertainment industry, and a sense of camaraderie among those involved in comedy.
  • Testosterone injections are a form of hormone replacement therapy used to increase levels of testosterone in the body. They are often prescribed to treat conditions like hypogonadism. Some individuals, including athletes, may use testosterone injections for non-medical purposes, which can have legal and ethical implications. Casual mentions of testosterone injections in contexts like the one described can indicate a relaxed attitude towards using such substances.
  • Bert Kreischer is a comedian known for his wild and adventurous personality. In this context, blocking police cars as a joke while intoxicated at a college party is an anecdote that showcases his impulsive and daring behavior, often fuele ...

Counterarguments

  • While Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura may be flexible with their pre-show routines, it's important to consider that professional boundaries are crucial for some performers, and not everyone may find it appropriate to alter their preparation for a show, even with celebrity influence.
  • Enjoying one's own brand of alcohol like "Poor Oso's" could be seen as a marketing strategy, and some might argue that it's important to be mindful of the message this sends regarding alcohol consumption.
  • Dr. Phil's light-hearted comment about alcohol enhancing an experience might be challenged by pointing out that not all experiences require alcohol, and for some individuals, sobriety is a key to enjoying life fully.
  • The casual attitude towards substance use, including testosterone injections, may not take into account the potential health risks and legal implications associated with non-medical use of substances.
  • Recounting acts of debauchery such as blocking police cars might be criticized for glamorizing reckless behavior that could lead to serious legal consequences or harm.
  • Sharing humorous anecdotes about strip club culture could be critiqued for potentially trivializing the objectification or exploitation that can occur within such establishments.
  • While the comedians' willingness to share their experiences openly can be seen as a form ...

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Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Discussions of pop culture and celebrities

In an engaging dialogue filled with humor and nostalgia, Phil McGraw, Bert Kreischer, and guests delve into the lives and careers of various high-profile individuals from the entertainment industry.

Perspectives on the lives and careers of famous actors, athletes, and public figures

Conversations about the public personas and private lives of various celebrities

Phil McGraw and Bert Kreischer take a look at the intersection between the public personas and private lives of celebrities. They discuss John Mulaney's approach of turning his addiction struggles into a positive narrative. The conversation also swings to Johnny Depp and Amber Heard's highly publicized trial, where Depp's calm demeanor made an impact while Heard's performance was criticized unfavorably by Kreischer.

In a more tender reflection, Kreischer admires the honesty of autistic individuals featured in "Love on the Spectrum," noting the profound emotional effect of their candor.

Comparisons between the comedians' experiences and those of high-profile individuals

The group's experiences often run parallel to those of the celebrities they discuss, ranging from humorous misunderstandings, such as mistaking actor Ray Winstone for the voice of Arby's, to Kreischer's mention of Ray Winstone's stirring performances in "The Gentleman" and "Sexy Beast."

Analysis of the impact and significance of certain cultural phenomena

Phil McGraw offers a satirical take on reality TV by listing exaggerated show titles and then showing appreciation for "Love on the Spectrum." He and Kreischer later discuss the cultural phenomenon around popular TV programs such as "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" and its famous "phone a friend" lifeline.

Humorous takes on the absurdities and inconsistencies within pop culture

The discussion takes a lighter turn into humor as the group addresses the often amusing, sometimes absurd nature of pop culture. They whimsically recall the sale of the Brady Bunch house to Lance Bass and riff on celebrity mishaps and misconstrued public moments, such a ...

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Discussions of pop culture and celebrities

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Ray Winstone is a British actor known for his roles in various films. In "Sexy Beast," he portrays a retired gangster facing threats from a former associate. In "The Gentlemen," he plays a tough and seasoned criminal involved in the London underworld. Winstone is recognized for his compelling performances in these gritty and intense crime films.
  • The bantering about Hollywood "Jasons" most likely involves a playful discussion about actors named Jason in Hollywood, such as Jason Statham, Jason Momoa, or Jason Bateman. Mixed-up film recollections could be referring to humorous anecdotes or stories where the participants confuse details or plot points from different movies in a light-hearted manner.
  • George Clooney's ascent to stardom involved a gradual rise in the entertainment industry through various acting roles in t ...

Counterarguments

  • While the group appreciates the honesty of autistic individuals in "Love on the Spectrum," it's important to recognize that not all autistic individuals may want their personal experiences to be a subject of public discussion or entertainment.
  • Discussing the intersection of public personas and private lives can sometimes blur the line between respectful analysis and invasion of privacy, even for public figures.
  • The conversation about Johnny Depp and Amber Heard's trial may lack a balanced perspective, as it seems to favor Depp's demeanor over Heard's without considering the complexities of the case.
  • Satirical takes on reality TV, while humorous, might not acknowledge the genre's appeal and the genuine enjoyment it brings to many viewers.
  • The parallel drawn between the group's experiences and those of celebrities might overlook the vast differences in lifestyle and pressures faced by high-profile individuals.
  • The discussion on cultural phenomena like "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" could be seen as trivializing the show's impact on viewers and participants.
  • Humorous takes on pop culture absurdities might so ...

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Strip Club Stories w/ "Dr. Phil" | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Controversial Humor and Edgy Banter

In the vibrant world of humor, the boundaries of acceptable comedy often blur, with comedians taking both celebrated and risky dives into edgy material.

Comedians are constantly toeing the line between humorous insight and offensive blunders. Political correctness and social sensitivity have become significant factors in modern comedy. Discussions of the role of political correctness in comedy are essential to understanding the delicate balance comedancers must maintain when aiming for laughs without alienating their audience. Political correctness can serve as a guide for better understanding of diverse perspectives, but preemptively censoring every potentially insensitive quip could also stifle the comedians' creative spirit.

Exploration of comedians' approaches to pushing the limits of comedy

Comedians such as Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer push limits with playful takes on performance, like considering "pants down" gimmicks or creating playful catchphrases, such as "pow pow." Their banter, including light-hearted remarks about arousal to muscles or confusion between celebrities, tests the waters of edgy humor, with Phil McGraw contributing with mock enthusiasm to the exchanges.

Instances of provocative, offensive, or taboo humor

Comedy that provokes thought or invokes discomfort often walks the edge of taboo.

Examples of the comedians engaging in risky, boundary-pushing humor

The cremembers reflect on incidents of provocative humor: from Kreischer's candid confusion about celebrities to Segura's memories of inappropriate behavior in unsupervised situations such as middle school buses and roller skating rinks. Moreover, jokes touching sensitive topics such as race, whereby a quip about not saying "bananas" due to Oprah's ethnicity quickly turns into an explanation about it being a catchphrase for excitement.

Reflections on the purpose and reception of such controversial humor

The reception of controversial humor varies widely, coming down to the audience's personal beliefs, backgrounds, and current social norms. For example, risqué jokes about strip clubs or discriminatory quips that McGraw joked about wanting to invent new racist slang test the audience’s tolerance.

Conversations around explicit subjects, like sex toys, derive humor from explicit descriptions and hypothetical scenarios. They also delve in ...

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Controversial Humor and Edgy Banter

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer are popular stand-up comedians known for their edgy and boundary-pushing humor. They often incorporate playful and provocative elements into their performances to engage their audiences. Phil McGraw, also known as Dr. Phil, is a television personality who occasionally participates in comedic banter with Segura and Kreischer.
  • Discussions about strip clubs in comedy often involve jokes or anecdotes related to the experiences or stereotypes associated with these establishments. Discriminatory quips in comedy can include remarks that target specific groups based on race, gender, or other characteristics, often for comedic effect. When comedians joke about inventing new racist slang, they are typically exploring the boundaries of what is considered acceptable humor by playing with controversial and sensitive topics.
  • Explicit subjects like sex toys in comedy routines often involve jokes or commentary that are sexually suggestive or provocative in nature. Comedians may use these topics to elicit humor through explicit descriptions or hypothetical scenarios related to sex toys. These jokes can be intended to push boundaries, provoke thought, or create discomfort for comedic effect. The inclusion of such explicit subjects in comedy can vary in reception based on individual sensibilities and societal norms.
  • Teasing based on names like Dick Butkus and "Gay" involves making jokes or remarks that play on the humorous or unconventional nature of the names themselves. This type of teasing often exploits the phonetic sound or cultural connotations of the names to create comedic effect. It can be a common form of light-hearted banter or humor, but it's important to be mindful of the context and sensitivity of the ...

Counterarguments

  • Political correctness may not always stifle creativity; it can inspire comedians to find innovative ways to be funny without relying on potentially harmful stereotypes or language.
  • The idea that all edgy humor is valuable or necessary for thought-provocation can be challenged; some argue that humor that punches down or targets marginalized groups is neither edgy nor insightful.
  • The assumption that the reception of controversial humor is solely based on personal beliefs and backgrounds overlooks the broader cultural and societal shifts that influence what is considered acceptable.
  • The notion that teasing based on names is harmless fun can be contested, as it can perpetuate bullying and have long-term psychological effects on individuals.
  • The suggestion that discussing the creation of new ...

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