Podcasts > 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer > 2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

By Tom Segura, Bert Kreischer

In this episode from the 2 Bears, 1 Cave podcast, hosts Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer contemplate their future in comedy and touring. Kreischer considers retiring from releasing comedy specials, though he remains eager to continue touring extensively, driven by his passion for connecting with fans through intimate events like 5k runs and post-show meetups.

The hosts also reflect on their experiences with fame, recounting positive celebrity encounters while acknowledging the challenges of navigating social media as public figures. They explore existential themes, with Kreischer questioning his comedic legacy and expressing a desire to recapture the carefree spirit of his youth. The episode offers a candid glimpse into the joys and demands of fan engagement on tour, underscoring Kreischer's deep appreciation for creating a sense of community among his followers.

2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Mar 24, 2025 episode of the 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer

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2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

1-Page Summary

Bert's Comedy Career and Plans for the Future

Bert May End Release After one More Special

Bert Kreischer considers bowing out of releasing comedy specials while still in demand, due to discomfort with excessive press and promotion. As Kreischer mentions, the promotional efforts for his Netflix special "Lucky" made him question its worth, despite previously enjoying that part of the process.

Bert Is Excited to Tour Extensively

Despite considering an end to special releases, Bert is eager to tour again, stating a "hunger" for the unique fan connection touring offers. As Kreischer explains, he values the sense of community built through experiences like pre-show 5k runs. Reminiscing about the intimacy of podcasting and shows like the BodyShots World Tour, Bert hopes to organize more intimate fan meetups on tour, such as 5k runs and post-show bar hangouts.

Experiences With Famous People and Challenges of Fame

Bert Enjoyed Positive Encounters With Celebrities Like Mel Gibson and Mark Zuckerberg

Bert recalls a friendly interaction with Mel Gibson on a plane that led to facilitating a photo with him at a UFC event, cementing Bert's admiration for the actor. He also mentions seeing Mark Zuckerberg's stylish appearance at the same UFC event, defying public perception.

Bert Acknowledges Fame's Downsides, Like Curating Social Media Posts

While enjoying celebrity encounters, Kreischer touches on the caution required regarding social media, hinting at situations where posting something inappropriate about Mel Gibson could have occurred.

Perspectives on Legacy, Impact, and Mortality

Bert Questions His Comedic Legacy

Bert Kreischer ponders quitting comedy to pursue service-oriented work that leaves a lasting impact beyond his comedic fame, fearing comedians may be quickly forgotten after passing away.

Bert Finds Joy In the Present, Not the Future

While appreciating his fulfilling life, Kreischer yearns for his carefree college days of living in the moment without worrying about long-term goals or legacy, striving to recapture that spontaneity.

Touring: Joys and Challenges of Fan Engagement

Bert Loves Engaging With Fans Through Podcasts and Live Shows

Kreischer deeply values connecting with fans, aiming to foster a sense of community through initiatives like Porosos vodka and the "Two Bears 5k." He cherishes engaging with his podcast fans and mulls focusing solely on "Two Bears."

Touring Is Draining, but Rewarding for Bert

Though touring is taxing for Bert, he finds it therapeutic. He discusses performing multiple nights in one city to have more fan interactions, despite the exhaustion, emphasizing the joy he finds in intimate fan encounters.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Bert Kreischer, a comedian, has expressed discomfort with the extensive press and promotional efforts surrounding his comedy specials. Despite previously enjoying this aspect of the process, the experience with promoting his Netflix special "Lucky" made him question its value. This discomfort has led him to consider ending the release of comedy specials while still in demand.
  • Bert Kreischer had positive encounters with celebrities like Mel Gibson and Mark Zuckerberg. He shared a friendly interaction with Mel Gibson on a plane and later facilitated a photo with him at a UFC event. Additionally, he noted Mark Zuckerberg's stylish appearance at the same event, which defied public perception. Kreischer's experiences with these celebrities influenced his perspectives on fame and social interactions.
  • Bert Kreischer is considering leaving his comedy career to pursue service-oriented work that would have a lasting impact beyond his fame in the comedy world. He is reflecting on the legacy he wants to leave behind and the potential for comedians to be forgotten quickly after their passing. This contemplation stems from his desire to make a meaningful contribution and leave a lasting mark through his work beyond comedy.

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2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Bert's Comedy Career and Plans for the Future

Bert Kreischer shares his thoughts on possibly ending his special releases and his passion for touring with unique, fan-centered experiences.

Bert May End Release After one More Special

Bert, Overwhelmed by Press and Promotion For Each Special, Considers Walking Away While in Demand

Bert Kreischer discusses the possibility that his next comedy special might be his final one. He has become uncomfortable with the excessive press and promotion necessary for each special. Despite previously enjoying this part of the process, the promotional efforts for "Lucky" led him to question its worth. Kreischer entertains the idea of bowing out of the special scene while still in demand, doing one last special dressed in a suit and tie. He also mentions that his special "Lucky Streamin'" is currently available on Netflix.

Bert Is Excited to Tour Extensively

Bert Wants More Intimate Fan Interactions Like Pre-show 5ks or Bar Meetups, Loving the Energy and Connection When Touring

Despite considering an end to releasing specials, Bert is ecstatic about the prospect of going on tour again. He's planning a "Permission to Party" tour and conveys a continuing "hunger" for the unique energy and connection that touring offers. Kreischer finds the sense of community he builds with his fans essential, referencing experiences like the two bears 5k run as ways to strengthen these bonds.

Kreischer notes that the intimacy of podcasting resembles imaginary conversati ...

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Bert's Comedy Career and Plans for the Future

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Bert Kreischer, a comedian, is considering the possibility of ending his comedy special releases due to feeling overwhelmed by the press and promotion required for each release. Despite this, he remains enthusiastic about touring and connecting with fans through unique experiences like pre-show 5K runs and bar meetups. Kreischer values the intimate interactions he has with his audience and aims to continue fostering these connections d ...

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2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Experiences With Famous People and Challenges of Fame

Bert Kreischer shares his personal experiences meeting celebrities like Mel Gibson and Mark Zuckerberg, and he reflects on the challenges fame can present, particularly in terms of being cautious with what is shared on social media.

Bert Enjoyed Positive Encounters With Celebrities Like Mel Gibson and Mark Zuckerberg

Bert recalls being on a plane with Mel Gibson seated next to him. However, he recounts that despite his wife Leanne’s warning not to disturb Gibson, Bert was eager to meet him. Eventually, when a flight attendant approached Bert as a fan, it led to Gibson inquiring about who Bert was. This incidental interaction opened the door for Bert to meet Mel Gibson and ask for a photo with him and his friends at a UFC event, to which Gibson agreed, showcasing his engaging disposition.

Bert Met and Photographed Mel Gibson, Found Him Cool and Friendly

Kreischer found Gibson very friendly during their encounter. He mentions he was thrilled to facilitate a photo with the celebrated actor and filmmaker at the UFC event, which further cemented his view of Gibson as cool and amicable. Bert does not hold back his admiration for Gibson, particularly praising his work in filmmaking and describes himself as "a ride or die Mel Gibson fan."

Zuckerberg's Impressive Appearance Defies Public Perception

In describing another encounter, Bert mentions seeing Mark Zuckerberg at the same UFC event and comments on Zuckerberg's impressive style, including a diamond necklace. Kreischer remarks on this cool and stylish appearance of ...

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Experiences With Famous People and Challenges of Fame

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While Bert Kreischer found Mel Gibson friendly and engaging, others may have had different experiences, and Gibson's past controversial remarks and actions could affect public perception of him.
  • Admiration for Mel Gibson's filmmaking does not necessarily negate the criticism he has faced for his personal conduct, which some people may find difficult to separate from his professional work.
  • Mark Zuckerberg's appearance at a UFC event with expensive accessories might be seen as a departure from his usual public persona, but it could also be interpreted as an attempt to rebrand or distract from other issues related to ...

Actionables

  • You can practice approachability by striking up conversations with fellow attendees at events you're interested in. For instance, if you're at a film festival, try initiating a chat with someone in line. This can help you develop the skill of engaging with new people in a friendly manner, much like striking up a conversation on a plane.
  • Create a personal policy for social media sharing that respects others' privacy. Before posting a photo or a comment involving someone else, consider if you have their consent and if the content could impact them negatively. This helps maintain respectful boundaries, similar to being cautious when sharing about celebrities.
  • Take note of the qualities that you find impressive in others and incorporate them into your pe ...

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2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Perspectives on Legacy, Impact, and Mortality

Bert Kreischer grapples with the notions of legacy and mortality, reflecting on the transient nature of comedic fame and a desire to make a lasting impact.

Bert Questions His Comedic Legacy

Bert Considers Shifting To Service-Oriented Work for Lasting Impact Beyond Comedy

Bert Kreischer is contemplating quitting comedy to pursue a life dedicated to serving others. He is driven by the question of what will remain after his death and whether his work as a comedian will have a lasting impact.

Bert Fears Comedians Are Forgotten After Passing

As he ponders the legacies of fellow comedians Ralphie May and Greg Giraldo, Kreischer concerns himself with the idea that comedians might quickly fade from public memory posthumously. He even mentions George Carlin, fearing those younger than 35 may not recognize his contributions to the genre.

Bert Finds Joy In the Present, Not the Future

Bert Misses the Carefree College Mindset, Living In the Moment Without Worrying About Long-Term Goals or Legacy

While Bert Kreischer appreciates his joyful life with self-sufficient children and personal and professional fulfillment, he yearns for the carefree days of his ...

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Perspectives on Legacy, Impact, and Mortality

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Bert Kreischer is contemplating the impact he will leave behind in the comedy world and whether his work will be remembered after his passing. He expresses concerns about the transient nature of fame and the fear of being forgotten posthumously. Kreischer reflects on the legacies of other comedians and the potential for their contributions to be overlooked by future generations.
  • Bert Kreischer is considering transitioning from comedy to a service-oriented career to leave a meaningful impact beyond entertainment. This shift reflects his desire to contribute to society in a more direct and lasting way, moving beyond the transient nature of comedic fame. By exploring service-oriented work, Kreischer aims to create a legacy that extends beyond his comedic achievements, focusing on making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
  • Bert Kreischer's current life is characterized by responsibilities, self-sufficiency, and a focus on long-term goals and legacy. In contrast, his nostalgic longing for his carefree college years reflects a desire for a simpler, more spontaneous existence without the pressures of career ambitions or concerns about leaving a lasting impact. This contrast highlights Bert's internal struggle between embracing the present with its responsibilities and finding joy in the freedom and lack of burdens he experienced in ...

Counterarguments

  • Legacy is subjective, and the impact of comedy can be profound and long-lasting for individuals, even if it doesn't always translate into widespread historical recognition.
  • Service-oriented work, while noble, is not the only way to create a lasting impact; art and entertainment also have significant value and can influence culture and society.
  • The fear that comedians are forgotten after passing may overlook the ways in which their work continues to influence new generations and other comedians, even if not all audience members are aware of their names.
  • While nostalgia for a carefree college mindset is understandable, it's also important to ...

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2 Bears Live From SXSW | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Touring: Joys and Challenges of Fan Engagement

Bert Loves Engaging With Fans Through Podcasts and Live Shows

Bert Kreischer values the connection he shares with his fans and endeavors to establish a sense of community among them. He and Tommy created Porosos vodka as a way to bond with their audience, encouraging fans to gather, share secrets, and enjoy the drink together, reinforcing camaraderie within his fanbase. Kreischer loves engaging with his fans, as shown when a flight attendant expressed being a huge fan of his podcast "Two Bears" and complimenting his comedy special "Razzle Dazzle." He appreciates the community feel and family-like atmosphere with the "Two Bears" fanbase and aims to forge a similar rapport with the audience of his "Bertcast" podcast. Kreischer even toys with the idea of focusing solely on "Two Bears," potentially stepping away from his solo podcasting efforts.

Bert shares his dedication to fan engagement through initiatives like the "Two Bears 5k," participating in these activities with his fanbase, and striving to establish the same bond with his podcast audience.

Touring Is Draining, but Rewarding for Bert

Touring can be a taxing experience for performers like Bert, yet he finds it necessary for his well-being. He describes feeling restless and crazy when not touring but starts to relax upon announcing a tour, suggesting that the process, while exhausting, is also therapeutic for him. Kreischer cherishes personal time with his fans and recalls the last time he hu ...

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Touring: Joys and Challenges of Fan Engagement

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The "Two Bears" podcast is a comedy podcast hosted by Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura, where they discuss various topics and share humorous anecdotes. On the other hand, the "Bertcast" podcast is hosted solely by Bert Kreischer, featuring interviews with guests from the entertainment industry and discussions on personal experiences and comedy. Both podcasts have gained popularity for their engaging content and unique perspectives within the comedy podcasting world.
  • The "Two Bears 5k" initiative is a running event organized by Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura, the hosts of the "Two Bears" podcast. It involves fans participating in a 5-kilometer run alongside Bert and Tom, promoting physical activity and community engagement among their fanbase. The ...

Counterarguments

  • While Bert Kreischer values connecting with fans, it's possible that not all fans feel the same level of connection or community, as individual experiences can vary.
  • The creation of Porosos vodka as a bonding tool might not appeal to all fans, especially those who do not drink alcohol for personal, health, or religious reasons.
  • The idea of a community and family-like atmosphere is subjective and may not be perceived equally by all members of the fanbase.
  • Efforts to forge a similar rapport with the "Bertcast" audience might not be as successful as with the "Two Bears" fanbase due to different dynamics or content preferences.
  • Fan engagement initiatives like the "Two Bears 5k" may exclude some fans who are unable to participate due to physical limitations, geographical distance, or lack of interest in such activities.
  • While touring is described as therapeutic for Bert, it could potentially lead to burnout or negatively impact his personal life and relationships if not balanced properly.
  • The preference for performing in a single city from Wednesday to Saturday might not be feasible for all touring schedules or align with the availability of all fans.
  • P ...

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