Podcasts > 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer > Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

By Tom Segura, Bert Kreischer

In this episode of 2 Bears, 1 Cave, comedians Bert Kreischer and Brian Simpson delve into their personal and professional experiences, revealing insights about the interpersonal dynamics within the comedy world. They discuss the deep connections formed through shared personalities and communication styles, as well as the potential conflicts that can arise in professional settings. The comedians also candidly share their quirks, habits, and perspectives on life, touching on topics such as neurodivergence, impulsivity, and their differing approaches to humor.

Additionally, Kreischer and Simpson reflect on the mental demands and pressures of being professional comedians, exploring the distinction between casual humor and comedic performance. They also delve into family dynamics, childhood experiences, and shared interests like thrilling adventures, providing a glimpse into the factors that have shaped their lives and careers.

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Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

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Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

1-Page Summary

Interpersonal relationships and dynamics between the comedians

Comedians Bert Kreischer and Brian Simpson discuss the deep connections formed due to their similar personalities and communication styles. Kreischer recalls an episode where he felt marginalized, showcasing how professional interactions can lead to conflict. Simpson highlights support received from Tom Segura, Christina P, and Kreischer when they had nothing to gain, reflecting a desire to support each other's success.

Personal habits, quirks, and perspectives on life

Kreischer exemplifies the classic over-thinker, ruminating on past interactions and often seeking feedback, a trait integral to his comedy writing process. Brian Simpson identifies as possibly neurodivergent, with intense focus tendencies. Kreischer's impulsive, self-indulgent nature contrasts with Simpson's more thoughtful and reserved approach.

The comedic craft and the demands of being a professional comedian

Kreischer and Segura reflect on the mental toll and pressures of performing, like the burden of Kreischer's high-energy persona. Segura addresses the pressure to perform on command. The distinction between casual humor and comedic performance is explored. Kreischer ponders whether comedians have an equivalent level of skill to professionals like Conor McGregor.

Family Dynamics and Experiences

Simpson discusses his challenging childhood in foster care and a violent conflict with his brother. Kreischer acknowledges his sheltered, financially secure upbringing. Simpson touches on his father's negligence and independence from seeking parental approval. Kreischer expected an inheritance. The comedians explore complexities of providing for their families, like cultural pressures of being a breadwinner.

Shared interests and life experiences

The comedians bond over their love for roller coasters and thrilling experiences. Kreischer shares coaster knowledge, discussing sensations like "proximity thrill" and "rollback." While lacking explicit details, the comedians reflect on transformative experiences that shaped their perspectives.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can explore your own communication style by journaling about your interactions with friends who have similar or different personalities. Write down how you feel during these interactions, what communication strategies you use, and how they affect the relationship. This can help you understand your own style and how it aligns or contrasts with others, leading to deeper connections.
  • Develop a habit of seeking constructive feedback from a trusted friend or colleague after social or professional gatherings. Ask them to observe your behavior and provide insights on your overthinking patterns or impulsive actions. This feedback can help you become more self-aware and adjust your behavior for better outcomes in future interactions.
  • Engage in a new thrilling activity, like visiting an amusement park or trying an extreme sport, to understand the concept of "proximity thrill." Reflect on how these experiences affect your emotions and thoughts. This can offer a fresh perspective on how seeking thrills can bond people and provide insights into your own preferences for excitement and adventure.

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Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Interpersonal relationships and dynamics between the comedians

Within the comedy community, interpersonal relationships and professional collaborations play a significant role. Comedians Bert Kreischer and Brian Simpson share their experiences and perspectives on these dynamics, revealing the nuances of friendship and collaboration within their profession.

The comedians' long-standing friendship and mutual understanding

The comedians recognize their similar personalities and communication styles, leading to a close bond

The comedians discuss the deep connections formed due to their similar personalities and communication styles. This shared understanding has fostered a strong bond among them, enabling an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual recognition. Kreischer and Simpson both acknowledge the impact of these personal dynamics on their professional lives, emphasizing the importance of these bonds.

The comedians discuss their experiences working together, including moments of conflict and resolution

Bert Kreischer recalls an episode that was particularly challenging for him, where he felt marginalized every time he spoke, as it seemed to either annoy Joe Rogan or be made fun of. This memory showcases how professional interactions can sometimes lead to conflict or discomfort, even among friends. Kreischer's candidness about his silence during the episode provides an example of how comedians often navigate complicated professional relationships.

The comedians share their insights on supporting each other's careers and success

Brian Simpson highlights the selfless support he received from Tom Segura, Christina P, and Bert Kreischer at a time when ...

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Interpersonal relationships and dynamics between the comedians

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The comedy community is a tight-knit group of comedians who often form close bonds due to shared experiences and challenges in the industry. Collaborations and friendships among comedians are common, with mutual support and understanding playing a crucial role in their professional lives. Conflicts and disagreements can arise, even among friends, highlighting the complexities of navigating relationships in the comedy world. Comedians often rely on each other for support, guidance, and opportunities, creating a network of interconnected relationships that contribute to their success and well-being.
  • Professional interactions and conflicts within the comedy industry are significant as they can impact relationships and collaborations among comedians. These interactions can sometimes lead to discomfort or misunderstandings, even among friends, highlighting the comple ...

Counterarguments

  • While Kreischer and Simpson may share a close bond, it's possible that not all comedians experience similar friendships, and some may feel isolated within the community.
  • Personalities and communication styles can be complex, and the perception of similarity may not always translate to a strong bond; other factors can influence interpersonal dynamics.
  • Discussing experiences of conflict and resolution is important, but it's also possible that some conflicts remain unresolved, which is a reality in any professional setting.
  • Kreischer's feelings of marginalization might not be universally shared by others in similar situations; different individuals may interpret such interactions differently.
  • Simpson's account of receiving selfless support could be exce ...

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Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Personal habits, quirks, and perspectives on life

Through detailed personal anecdotes and self-reflection, comedians Bert Kreischer and Brian Simpson share insights into their distinctive personalities and approaches to life.

The comedians' unique personality traits and behaviors

Bert Kreischer and Brian Simpson offer a glimpse into how their personal habits and quirks shape their interactions and creative processes.

Bert's tendency to ruminate and his high energy personality

Bert Kreischer exemplifies the classic over-thinker, often ruminating on past interactions and questioning how others perceive his actions and contributions. He seeks feedback and validation, as noted by his concerns about whether people are sufficiently grateful for his help. Bert's self-awareness of his inclination to dwell on conversations, especially ones on his podcast, points to a high-energy and possibly validation-seeking personality. He acknowledges the impact of his rumination on both his comedy writing process—where it's integral—and on his mental well-being when it spirals into negative thoughts. For instance, when Bert suffered a concussion, the resulting confusion led observers to the erroneous conclusion that he was on drugs, reflecting the public's perception of his loud persona.

Brian's self-awareness of his own quirics and neurodivergent tendencies

On the other end of the spectrum, Brian Simpson identifies as possibly neurodivergent with a tendency to mind his own business. His self-awareness shines through in his thoughtful interactions and acknowledgment of his quirks, such as intense focus on one matter to the detriment of others. Brian also discusses navigating his fears to free his artistry, showing a contemplative approach to overcoming personal hurdles.

The comedians' differing approaches to life and decision-making

Bert and Brian depict contrasting styles in their decision-making and philosophies on life, highlighted by their conversations and choices.

Bert's impulsive and self-indulgent nature versus Brian's more thoughtful and reserved approach

Bert Kreischer's high-spirited and impulsive nature is evident, especially in his shopping habits where he ends up buying gifts for himself while intending to shop for others. His self-indulgent behavior is also demonstrated by his trusting attitude towards his wife's financial judgments and his tendency to openly show love and affection through sharing and celebration.

Bert's tendency to opt against medication for his ruminations, to preserve his comedic edge, contrasts sharply with Brian's experience with medication dulling his mental acuity. Bert's impulsive reaction af ...

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Personal habits, quirks, and perspectives on life

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

...

Actionables

  • You can explore your own validation-seeking tendencies by keeping a journal where you note instances when you seek external approval and reflect on what internal needs you're trying to meet. This self-awareness exercise can help you understand your motivations and may lead to a more self-reliant mindset. For example, if you notice you're asking for feedback frequently at work, consider what insecurities might be driving this need and how you can address them internally.
  • Develop a habit of setting aside "introspection time" to cultivate a deeper understanding of your personal quirks and fears. Use this time to engage in activities like meditation, writing, or quiet contemplation that encourage self-reflection. This practice can help you become more self-aware and may enhance your personal growth. For instance, if you have an intense focus on a particular hobby, use this time to explore why it captivates you and how it aligns with your broader life goals.
  • Create a "mindful spending" plan to manage impulsive buying h ...

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Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

The comedic craft and the demands of being a professional comedian

Professional comedians Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura delve into the intricacies of the comedic profession, discussing the mental toll and the pressures of performance.

The unique challenges and pressures of being a successful comedian

Comedians Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura reflect on the mental and emotional toll of continuously performing and dealing with criticism. Kreischer specifically touches on the burden of his comedic persona and the anxieties that accompany it, such as the need to always appear cheerful and talkative. When he becomes quiet, people assume something is wrong, which adds to his stress. He also recognizes how his intense energy can exhaust others, leading to tensions during collaborations, such as podcasts or the Sober October with Joe Rogan.

Tom Segura addresses the pressure to perform on command, especially in front of an audience, suggesting that there’s an expectation to be funny at specific moments which can be taxing. The comedians also discuss the importance of maintaining their creative edge and strategies they employ to avoid burnout in their line of work.

The comedians' perspectives on comedy as an art form

The conversation with the comedians provides insight into the art of comedy and the distinction between casual humor and performance. Segura brings up his admiration for Brian Simpson's mind, particularly how Simpson's life philosophies become evident during podcast discussions, which is distinct from being spontaneously funny.

The comedians contr ...

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The comedic craft and the demands of being a professional comedian

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While the mental toll and pressures of being a professional comedian are real, some might argue that these challenges are not unique to comedy and are present in many other professions, especially in the performing arts.
  • The need to maintain a comedic persona might be seen as part of the job, similar to how other professionals maintain a work persona, and learning to manage this is a skill that can be developed over time.
  • Some might suggest that the burden of appearing cheerful and talkative is part of the brand that a comedian like Bert Kreischer has cultivated, and it could be managed by setting public expectations or taking breaks from the public eye.
  • The issue of Kreischer's intense energy exhausting others could be viewed as a personal management challenge, with the onus on the individual to find balance and ensure their behavior is sustainable in collaborative settings.
  • The pressure to perform on command is a common aspect of many performance-based careers, and some might argue that this is a skill that can be honed and that effective preparation can mitigate the stress associated with it.
  • Regarding strategies to maintain a creative edge and avoid burnout, some might argue that these strategies are not unique to comedy and are applicable across various creative and non-creative fields.
  • While Tom Segura admires Brian Simpson's ability to weave life philosophies into comedy, others might arg ...

Actionables

  • You can explore the balance between personal authenticity and professional expectations by journaling your experiences after social interactions, noting when you felt you had to put on a persona and when you were genuinely yourself. This can help you become more aware of the energy you bring to different situations and how it affects both you and others around you.
  • Develop a "pressure release" routine that involves activities unrelated to your main work or passion, like gardening, painting, or playing an instrument, to give your mind a break and prevent burnout. Engaging in a hobby can serve as a creative outlet that rejuvenates your mental state without the stress of performance.
  • Create a personal "comedy philosophy" b ...

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Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Family Dynamics and Experiences

Comedians Brian Simpson and Bert Kreischer share contrasting stories of their family backgrounds and upbringings, reflecting on how these experiences have shaped their lives and careers.

The comedians' varying family backgrounds and upbringings

The comedians come from very different familial situations, which have profoundly impacted their development and outlook on life.

Brian's experiences with foster care and sibling conflicts

Brian Simpson talks about his challenging childhood, including time in foster care. He mentions moving frequently and having to navigate new schools and potential conflicts. In a vulnerable recount, Brian discloses a violent conflict with his older brother, which stemmed from not wanting Brian to associate with older, street-involved kids. The altercation was provoked when Brian harshly told his brother, "you're not my brother." Additionally, he reveals that his mother had to leave him and his sibling with their grandmother—who was with abusive partners—because she was young, broke, and unable to care for them.

Bert's privileged upbringing and lack of financial concerns

In stark contrast, Bert Kreischer acknowledges his more sheltered and financially secure upbringing, describing it as a "soft life." He had assumed there would be an inheritance for him, given his family's comparative wealth, and shares a story of an acquaintance who is set to inherit $40 million, highlighting the stark differences in financial expectations and security. Bert adds humor to the discussion by jesting about inheriting 750 antique outboard motors from his father-in-law, implying their lack of value.

The impact of family relationships on the comedians' lives

The comedians delve into the profound effect their family relationships have had on their personal and professional lives.

The comedians discuss the role of parental support, or lack thereof, in their personal and professional development

Brian Simpson touches on the absence of parental support, recounting a story of negligence from his father that led to an injury when he was a baby. This impacted him from an early age, and he highlights an independent streak by mentioning that he has never been paralyzed by thoughts of seeking parental approval in his comedy career.

Bert Kreischer speaks to the financial realities he grew up with, where the concept of parental inheritance was an assumed part of his future. Meanwhile, Tom Segura jokes about the disappointment of not inheriting his father's prized 1950s car, and Brian adds context by describing Tom's parents with contrasting traits—his mother as difficult and his father as oblivious, yet sweeter.

...

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Family Dynamics and Experiences

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Brian Simpson and Bert Kreischer are comedians known for their stand-up comedy and storytelling. Brian Simpson has shared personal experiences from his challenging childhood, including time in foster care and conflicts with family members. Bert Kreischer, on the other hand, often incorporates humor into his narratives about his privileged upbringing and family dynamics. Both comedians use their life experiences as material for their comedy routines, offering audiences insights into their contrasting backgrounds and perspectives.
  • The connection between the comedians' personal experiences and their comedy careers lies in how their upbringing, family dynamics, and relationships shape their comedic material and perspectives on stage. Their unique backgrounds influence the stories they tell, the humor they use, and the themes they explore in their performances. By drawing from their personal lives, comedians like Brian Simpson and Bert Kreischer infuse authenticity and relatability into their comedy, connecting with audiences on a deeper level. This authenticity often forms the foundation of their comedic style and sets them apart in the ...

Counterarguments

...

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Ever Been Knocked Out? w/ Brian Simpson | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Shared interests and life experiences

Tom Segura, Brian Simpson, and Bert Kreischer, comedians well known for their humor, share more than just laughs. Their mutual passion for thrilling experiences and exploration of personal growth has led to a deep camaraderie.

The comedians' mutual passion for adventure and thrilling experiences

The trio finds common ground in their love for adrenaline-fueled activities such as roller coasters and theme parks.

The comedians bond over their love of roller coasters, theme parks, and other adrenaline-fueled activities

Tom Segura recalls being excited to hop on roller coasters frequently as a child. Similarly, Brian Simpson expresses his enthusiasm for the thrill of roller coasters, particularly those close calls that create a sense of danger. Bert Kreischer adds to the conversation by speaking of a term called "proximity thrill," which refers to the sensation of objects being so close they might hit you, amplifying the excitement of the ride. Together, they discuss the unique terror of Disneyland's Space Mountain, where darkness intensifies the fear of unseen structures whizzing by at close range.

Bert Kreischer shares his wealth of coaster knowledge, noting his favorite as Superman at Magic Mountain, which provides a sensation of weightlessness and freefall, while Brian Simpson cites the Top Thrill Dragster among the world's best.

The comedians discuss the psychological and neurological factors that contribute to their shared interests

In addition to sharing personal anecdotes, the trio discusses the psychology behind the lure of roller coasters. Kreischer talks about a particular phenomenon known as "rollback," which he experienced on the Top Thrill Dragster, when the coaster reverses down the track due to insufficient power to complete the course.

The comedians' exploration of personal growth and self-discovery

Despite the absence of details within the provided transcript chunks regarding the comedians' introspective journeys or conversations on their life philosophies, it is clear their shared adventures have left a mark.

The comedians reflect on the transformative exp ...

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Shared interests and life experiences

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Proximity thrill" is a term used to describe the sensation of objects being very close during an adrenaline-fueled experience, like a roller coaster ride. This feeling intensifies the excitement and fear by creating the illusion that the objects could potentially hit you. It adds an extra layer of thrill to the ride, making it more exhilarating and memorable. Bert Kreischer mentioned this concept while discussing the unique terror experienced on Disneyland's Space Mountain.
  • The "rollback" phenomenon on a roller coaster occurs when the coaster does not have enough power to complete its course, causing it to reverse down the track briefly before attempting the ascent again. This unexpected reversal can add an element of surprise and excitement to the ride experience. Roller coasters designed with launch systems, like the Top Thrill Dragster mentioned, may occasionally experience rollbacks due to technical or operational reasons. The sensation of moving backward on a high-speed coaster can create a unique thrill for riders.
  • Superman at Magic Mountain is a roller coaster located at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California. It is known for providing riders with a sensation of weightlessness and freefall during the r ...

Counterarguments

  • While the comedians share a love for thrilling experiences, it's possible that their individual reasons for enjoying these activities differ, and the text may oversimplify their motivations.
  • The bonding over adrenaline-fueled activities might not be as deep or significant in their overall friendship as the text suggests; other factors could play a larger role.
  • Discussing psychological and neurological factors is complex, and the comedians' conversations might not accurately reflect the breadth of scientific understanding on the topic.
  • Kreischer's favorite roller coaster and his experience with "rollback" are subjective and may not resonate with everyone's preferences or experiences with roller coasters.
  • Reflecting on transformative experiences is a personal process, and the impact of such events on an individual's perspective can vary greatly from person to person.
  • The acknowledgment of challenges and successes in ...

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