Podcasts > 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer > We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

By Tom Segura, Bert Kreischer

In this episode of 2 Bears, 1 Cave, Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer address their upcoming two-month hiatus from the podcast, as both comedians prepare for separate film projects. They introduce their temporary replacements, comedians Chris Distefano and Stav Scott, who will maintain the show's production schedule during their absence.

The hosts also explore several other topics, including Kreischer's concerns about hot air balloon safety and his recent confrontation with an Uber driver. The conversation touches on changes in the comedy industry's economic landscape, with Kreischer noting the disappearance of middle-tier success levels among working comedians—observing that performers now tend to either achieve significant success or struggle to maintain their careers.

We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

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We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

1-Page Summary

Risks and Dangers of Hot Air Balloon Travel

Bert Kreischer shares his concerns about hot air balloon safety, describing them as inherently risky and unpredictable. He points out several dangers, including the use of propane tanks, lack of directional control, and hazardous landing procedures where passengers must sometimes jump from moving baskets. Kreischer recalls a particularly chaotic landing experience and discusses various accidents, emphasizing that while fatalities might not be common, injuries frequently occur.

Bert and Tom's Upcoming Professional Commitments

Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura are both embarking on significant projects: Kreischer is filming "Freebert" for Netflix in Atlanta, while Segura is working on "El Tigre," a cartel comedy in New Mexico. Their two-month commitments have created scheduling challenges for their podcast production.

Plans For Guest Hosts

To maintain their podcast during their absence, Kreischer and Segura have enlisted comedians Chris Distefano and Stav Scott as guest hosts. The hosts express confidence in their choices, with Kreischer particularly praising Distefano's quick wit and Scott's humor. While they'll provide some talking points, the guest hosts will have creative freedom in their discussions.

Reflections on the "Middle Class" of Comedians

Kreischer observes a significant shift in the comedy industry's economic landscape. He notes the disappearance of the "middle class" among comedians, with performers now either achieving remarkable success (performing in arenas and being featured in major publications like the New York Times) or struggling to maintain their careers.

Bert's Confrontation With an Uber Driver

Kreischer shares a recent incident where he lost his composure with an Uber driver who had made disrespectful comments about his wife, Leanne. Despite typically being able to de-escalate conflicts, Kreischer describes how his anger overtook him in this situation, leading to a confrontation that he later regretted.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Chris Distefano and Stav Scott are comedians known for their stand-up performances and podcast appearances. They have gained popularity for their humor and unique comedic styles. Bert Kreischer, a fellow comedian, has chosen them as guest hosts for his podcast due to their comedic talents and ability to engage audiences.
  • The "middle class" of comedians traditionally referred to performers who had steady work and a comfortable living without reaching superstar status. In recent years, this middle tier has shrunk, with comedians either achieving significant success or struggling to sustain their careers. This shift has led to a more pronounced divide between highly successful comedians and those facing financial challenges in the industry.

Counterarguments

  • While hot air balloon travel involves certain risks, it is statistically safer than many other forms of transportation when conducted by experienced pilots and with proper safety measures.
  • Propane tanks are commonly used in many applications and are considered safe when handled correctly; the same applies to their use in hot air balloons.
  • Hot air balloon pilots can exert some directional control through altitude adjustments to catch different wind currents, although they cannot steer as precisely as other aircraft.
  • Landing procedures, while potentially hazardous, are typically conducted with safety in mind, and pilots are trained to minimize risks to passengers.
  • The rate of accidents in hot air ballooning is relatively low compared to other adventure activities, and strict regulations help to ensure safety.
  • The scheduling challenges faced by Kreischer and Segura due to their professional commitments are common in the entertainment industry and can often be managed effectively.
  • Guest hosts may bring fresh perspectives and potentially attract new listeners to the podcast, which could be beneficial.
  • The concept of a "middle class" in comedy, or any entertainment industry, is subjective and can vary widely depending on market trends, individual talent, and economic factors.
  • The dichotomy between remarkable success and struggling to maintain a career in comedy may overlook the nuances of the industry, where many comedians can have a steady, if not high-profile, career.
  • Kreischer's confrontation with the Uber driver, while regrettable, highlights the human tendency to react emotionally when loved ones are disrespected, and such incidents can serve as learning experiences for better handling similar situations in the future.

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We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Risks and Dangers of Hot Air Balloon Travel

Bert Kreischer shares insights into the perils of hot air balloon travel, highlighting its inherent risks and often precarious nature of flights and landings.

Balloons: A Risky, Sketchy Air Travel Form

Kreischer emphasizes the fragility and unpredictability of hot air balloons, characterizing them as "fucking sketchy as fuck."

Hot Air Balloons' Fragility and Lack of Control Make Them Prone to Dangerous Crashes

Hot air balloons, as portrayed by Kreischer, are rife with dangers. He mentions the risks involved with the propane tanks and torch used to heat the balloon, likening the flight to sitting under an intense restaurant heater. He recalls reading about a recent balloon crash and tells a story of the first hot air balloon flight, citing an early realization of the inability to control the vessel effectively.

Bert highlights the fundamental problem of the lack of control during the flight of hot air balloons, as their movement is heavily reliant on wind patterns and they cannot be steered. The experience of flying in such conditions, particularly when considering factors like birds, leaves one feeling perilously close to death.

Bert's Experience: Hot Air Balloon Landings Require Passengers to Jump Out

Describing one of his own experiences, Kreischer details a chaotic landing where passengers were instructed to hold onto the outside of the basket and jump off while the balloon descended, moving at a speed he compared to seven miles per hour. Landing in a bank parking lot among what he describes as a "sea of hot air balloons," Kreischer suggests that the process is far from controlled or orderly.

Hot Air Balloon Accidents Are Common, Often Causing Injuries or Fatalities Due to Heights and Missing Safety Fea ...

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Risks and Dangers of Hot Air Balloon Travel

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Bert Kreischer is a comedian and television host known for his storytelling and humor. While he may exaggerate for comedic effect, his experiences and anecdotes often contain elements of truth. In this context, Kreischer's perspective on hot air balloon travel is colored by his personal encounters and the stories he shares, which may be dramatized for entertainment value.
  • Hot air balloons operate by heating the air inside the balloon with a propane burner, making the balloon rise. The pilot controls the ascent and descent by adjusting the temperature of the air inside the balloon. Hot air balloons are at the mercy of wind patterns for horizontal movement as they cannot be steered like traditional aircraft. Landing a hot air balloon often involves passengers jumping out of the basket while the balloon is descending at a controlled speed.
  • Hot air balloon landings can be chaotic, ...

Counterarguments

  • Hot air balloon travel is statistically safer than some other forms of transportation, such as driving or motorcycling, when considering the number of incidents per activity hour.
  • Modern hot air balloons are subject to strict safety regulations and regular maintenance checks to ensure their safety and reliability.
  • Pilots of hot air balloons are required to be certified and undergo rigorous training to manage flights and landings safely.
  • The portrayal of hot air balloons as "fragile" may be exaggerated; they are designed to withstand the conditions of flight and are made from durable materials.
  • While hot air balloons cannot be steered in the traditional sense, experienced pilots can navigate effectively by changing altitude to find favorable wind directions.
  • The process of landing a hot air balloon, while it can be unpredictable, usually follows a standard procedure and is managed by the pilot to minimize risk.
  • The frequency of accidents in hot air ballooning is relatively low compared to the number of flights conducted worldwide.
  • Safety features in hot air balloons, ...

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We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Bert and Tom's Upcoming Professional Commitments and Projects

Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura are embarking on new ventures in the entertainment industry with upcoming professional commitments that have them traveling to different parts of the United States.

Bert Filming "Freebert" in Atlanta For Netflix

Bert Kreischer has temporarily relocated to Atlanta to shoot a television show for Netflix. The show, titled "Freebert," is set to be in production for two months as Bert dedicates his time to filming.

Tom Filming "El Tigre" in New Mexico

Simultaneously, Tom Segura is occupied with his own project, a movie called "El Tigre." Tom is spending his summer in New Mexico for the film's production. Described as a cartel comedy by Tom, he shares his enthusiasm for the project's progress. ...

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Bert and Tom's Upcoming Professional Commitments and Projects

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can explore local film and comedy scenes by attending shows and movie sets if they're open to the public, similar to how Bert and Tom are involved in their respective projects. This could give you a taste of the entertainment industry and provide networking opportunities with local creatives.
  • Consider starting a short-term creative project, like writing a script or filming a short video over a two-month period, mirroring Bert's commitment to "Freebert." This can help you understand the dedication required for such endeavors and improve your project management skills.
  • Us ...

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Plans For Guest Hosts on Their Podcast

Bert and Tom are making innovative plans for their popular podcast by incorporating guest hosts during their absence.

Bert and Tom Enlist Comedians Chris Distefano and Stav Scott to Guest Host Their Podcast Episodes During Their Absence

Bert and Tom talk about having some time away from their podcast due to other commitments. They have come up with a fun idea to keep the podcast engaging and entertaining during their absence. Bert mentions considering friends to fill in, specifically naming comedians Chris Distefano and Stav Scott, also known as Stobby, as the chosen guest hosts.

Bert and Tom Are Excited for Distefano and Scott to Take Over the Podcast, Believing the Audience Will Enjoy Their Comedic Talents

Bert and Tom share their excitement about Distefano and Scott guest hosting. Bert thinks highly of Chris Distefano's comedic talent, stating that everything he says on podcasts makes Bert laugh. Tom recounts an instance of Distefano's quick wit when the two played blackjack together, underscoring his comedic nature. Additionally, Bert speaks of Stav Scott with admiration, referring to him as his spirit animal and praising his ability to make him giggle hard.

They're confident their audience will enjoy listening to these comedians and anticipate a positive reaction. Tom tells their audience about the guest episodes, while Bert reflects on ...

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Plans For Guest Hosts on Their Podcast

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Bert and Tom are the hosts of a popular podcast. They are planning to have guest hosts, comedians Chris Distefano and Stav Scott, take over their podcast temporarily. Bert and Tom have high regard for the comedic talents of Distefano and Scott and believe their audience will enjoy the guest-hosted episodes.
  • Bert and Tom plan to have guest hosts, comedians Chris Distefano and Stav Scott, take over their podcast episodes during their absence. They will provide talking points but allow the guest hosts the freedo ...

Counterarguments

  • While Bert and Tom are confident in their choice of guest hosts, it's possible that some audience members may not resonate with the comedic styles of Chris Distefano and Stav Scott.
  • The success of guest hosts can be unpredictable, and there's a risk that the dynamic of the show could change in a way that's not appealing to all listeners.
  • Providing talking points but allowing free rein could lead to episodes that deviate significantly from the usual content, potentially alienating loyal listeners who have specific expectations.
  • The anticipation of a positive reaction is ...

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We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Reflections on the "Middle Class" of Comedians in the Industry

Bert Kreischer articulately voices his concerns regarding the shifting dynamics within the comedy industry, highlighting the increasing income disparities among comedians.

Bert and Tom See a Growing Pay Divide Among Comedians

When reflecting on his and his peers' comedy careers, Kreischer has observed a notable change from their early days when everyone was approximately 12 to 15 years into their careers. During that period, most comedians were frequenting comedy clubs and earning modest amounts of money. Fast forward to the present, Kreischer notices a stark divergence in incomes.

"Comedians' Middle Class Has Largely Disappeared, With Many now Struggling or Skyrocketing To Success."

Kreischer draws attention to what he describes as the disappearance of the "middle class" in the comedy industry, signifying a shift in the structure of the business. He reminisces a time when the income range among his peers was relatively broad, with everyone doing club shows. Today, he sees a vast disparity where some comedians perform in arenas and huge theaters, while others struggle to make ends meet.

Bert Notices Many Friends Achieving Fame In Major Publications Like the New ...

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Reflections on the "Middle Class" of Comedians in the Industry

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The comedy industry is structured around various levels of performers, from newcomers in open mic nights to established headliners in theaters and arenas. Comedians typically start in small comedy clubs, gradually building their careers through consistent performances and audience engagement. As they gain popularity, comedians may transition to larger venues, leading to significant income disparities within the industry. This shift can create a divide between comedians who achieve mainstream success and those who struggle to secure consistent work.
  • Bert Kreischer is a well-known stand-up comedian, actor, and podcaster. He gained fame for his storytelling abilities and energetic stage presence. Kreischer is recognized for his comedy specials, podcast appearances, and hosting gigs. He is known for his candid and humorous take on various aspects of life, often drawing from his personal experiences.
  • The income distribution in the comedy industry has shifted over time, with some comedians now earning significantly more while others struggle financially. This change has led to a disappearance of the "middle class" of comedians, where there used to be a broader range of income levels among peers. Career progression in comedy now sees some comedians performing in large venues like arenas and theaters, while others face challenges in making a living from their craft.
  • When comed ...

Counterarguments

  • The concept of a "middle class" of comedians may be oversimplified, as the comedy industry has always had a range of success levels and income disparities.
  • The perceived disappearance of the middle class in comedy could be part of a natural ebb and flow within the entertainment industry, rather than a permanent shift.
  • The shift from clubs to arenas could be seen as a positive development, indicating that some comedians are reaching wider audiences and achieving greater success.
  • The recognition of comedians in major publications like the New York Times could be a sign of the increasing cultural relevance of comedy, rather than an indication of a problematic divide.
  • The success of Bert's friends and their fe ...

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We're Being Replaced! (For The Summer) | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Bert's Confrontation With an Uber Driver

Bert Kreischer found himself in a heated confrontation with an Uber driver that escalated in his front yard due to a disrespectful comment directed toward his wife.

Bert Enraged by Uber Driver's Disrespect to Wife, Sparking Confrontation

The incident began at the airport, where Bert already had an initial dispute with the Uber driver over the phone. Frustrated, Bert remained silent during the car ride home. Upon arrival, Bert learned that the driver had spoken disrespectfully to his wife, Leanne, which ignited his anger. The driver had refused a tip from Leanne and made a demeaning remark about her to another person, suggesting she was problematic, despite her not doing anything to provoke such a response. This comment was the last straw for Bert, who lashed out and screamed at the driver, demanding he get out of the car.

Bert Regrets His Outburst and Feels Ashamed He Couldn't Control His Anger, Realizing It Wasn't Productive

The following morning, Bert awoke feeling depressed and full of regret for losing control of his emotions. He reflected on the situation and questioned the usefulness of escalating the incident to a potent ...

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Bert's Confrontation With an Uber Driver

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can practice emotional regulation by keeping a 'reaction journal' where you document instances of strong emotions, noting what triggered them, how you responded, and alternative, calmer responses for future situations. This helps you become more aware of your emotional triggers and develop better coping strategies.
  • Develop a 'conflict playbook' with scripted responses for various challenging scenarios you might encounter, such as disrespectful remarks or heated arguments. This prepares you mentally to handle conflicts with composure and prevents regrettable reactions.
  • Engage in role-playing ex ...

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