#2339 - Luis J. Gomez & Big Jay Oakerson
In this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Joe Rogan, Luis J. Gomez, and Big Jay Oakerson examine how the comedy industry has evolved with the rise of digital platforms. They discuss how podcasting and social media have created new paths for comedians to build audiences and develop material, moving away from traditional venue-based career building.
The conversation spans several other topics, including the history of entertainment at the Roman Colosseum, where gladiators were more like professional performers than fighters to the death. They also explore academic resistance to unconventional theories about ancient civilizations, and share observations about the changing nature of cars, from the appeal of manual transmissions to the challenges of repairing modern vehicles.
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Changing Comedy Industry and Rise Of Podcasting
Joe Rogan and his guests discuss how the comedy industry has evolved from traditional venues to digital platforms. According to Rogan, while comedians previously built their audience through club performances, podcasting has now become a crucial platform for connecting with fans and developing material. Big Jay Oakerson and Luis J. Gomez note that podcast networks have created alternative career paths for comedians, allowing them to bypass traditional venues while building direct relationships with their audience.
The speakers observe that success in modern comedy requires not just talent but also the ability to sell tickets and maintain strong social media presence. They discuss how audience feedback through social media can significantly influence a comedian's material and career trajectory.
Roman Colosseum: History and Ancient Entertainment
The discussion turns to the spectacular events held at the Roman Colosseum. According to Rogan and Gomez, the venue hosted various entertainments, from exotic animal hunts to dramatic gladiator battles, all enhanced by impressive technical features like trapdoors and pulley systems for dramatic effect.
Rogan explains that contrary to popular belief, gladiatorial combat wasn't typically fought to the death. Instead, gladiators were more like professional entertainers, focusing on performance rather than fatality. The speakers note that the Colosseum's seating arrangements reflected Roman social hierarchy, with wealthy citizens receiving the best views while poorer spectators watched from distant "rafters."
Resistance to New Ideas in Institutions
Joe Rogan explores academic resistance to unconventional theories, using Graham Hancock's work on ancient civilizations as an example. He discusses how scholars proposing alternative historical theories often face significant skepticism and criticism from the academic establishment. Rogan cites the discovery of 22,000-year-old human footprints in White Sands, New Mexico, as an example of how new evidence can challenge long-held academic beliefs.
Personal Experiences and Anecdotes About Driving and Cars
The conversation shifts to automotive experiences, with Rogan and Big Jay Oakerson expressing nostalgia for manual transmissions and analog cars. They discuss the appeal of older vehicles, specifically praising the durability of brands like Lexus and Toyota Tacoma.
The speakers also address challenges with modern vehicles. Oakerson laments how computer-driven cars are harder to diagnose and repair than their mechanical predecessors. The group discusses how technological advancement, while impressive, has led to increased repair costs and potentially decreased personal connection to driving.
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Counterarguments
- While podcasting offers new opportunities, it may not provide the same skill development and immediate audience feedback that live performances do.
- The saturation of podcasts might make it difficult for new comedians to stand out without a unique angle or established following.
- Social media feedback can sometimes lead to pandering or self-censorship, as comedians may avoid controversial material to maintain popularity.
- The comparison between ancient and modern entertainment could overlook the cultural and historical contexts that make direct comparisons overly simplistic.
- Some might argue that the romanticization of gladiatorial combat overlooks the brutality and human cost of such ancient spectacles.
- The resistance in academia to new ideas can be seen as a necessary part of the scientific process, ensuring rigorous scrutiny and validation of new theories.
- The discovery of ancient artifacts like the human footprints in White Sands may not always overturn established theories but can add complexity to our understanding of history.
- Nostalgia for manual transmissions and analog cars may overlook the benefits of modern vehicles, such as improved safety features, fuel efficiency, and emissions controls.
- While older vehicles are often praised for their durability, they may lack modern conveniences and advancements that improve the driving experience and environmental impact.
- The increased complexity and repair costs of modern vehicles can be offset by their longer lifespans and more reliable performance over time.
- The decreased personal connection to driving due to technological advancements is subjective and may not be felt by all individuals, some of whom may appreciate the convenience and safety features of modern cars.
Actionables
- You can start a humor blog where you share short comedic pieces and encourage readers to leave comments for instant feedback. By analyzing which posts get the most interaction, you can refine your comedic style and understand what resonates with your audience, similar to how comedians use social media feedback to shape their material.
- Create a YouTube channel dedicated to DIY car maintenance for older vehicle models, focusing on the basics that can be done with minimal tools. This taps into the nostalgia for manual and analog systems, providing a resource for those who want to maintain a personal connection with their cars and potentially save on repair costs.
- Engage in local open mic nights or improv classes to develop your public speaking and comedic timing, leveraging the skills that are essential for success in modern comedy. This hands-on experience can help you build confidence, understand audience reactions in real-time, and improve your ability to sell tickets to your own shows in the future.
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Changing Comedy Industry and Rise Of Podcasting
The speakers delve into the transformation of the comedy industry, from traditional comedy clubs to the digital realm, emphasizing the rise of podcasting and its impact on comedians’ careers and their interaction with audiences.
Shift From Comedy Venues To Podcasts and Digital Platforms
Comedians Engage Audiences and Hone Their Craft Via Podcasts and Online Content
Joe Rogan and his guests reminisced about the evolution of comedy, noting how the internet democratized access to comedic content. Rogan notes that comedians used to build a market through frequent performances at clubs, whereas Big Jay Oakerson emphasizes the value of podcasts in making connections with audiences. For instance, Joe Rogan views Kurt Metzger's frequent podcast appearances as essential to maintaining his comedic creativity, comparing his mind to a "division sign filled with formulas." The speakers also reference the importance of shows like "Legion of Skanks" in offering a new space for connecting with fans, as traditional platforms like "Opie and Anthony" did for the previous generation. Luis J. Gomez discusses how Skankfest and podcasting create opportunities for comics to feel closer to their audience, while Joe Rogan likens podcast conversations to green room chats, indicating that podcasts offer a more natural and authentic way for comedians to hone their craft.
Podcast Networks Rise As Alternative Career Paths For Comedians
Joe Rogan and his guests discuss the various career paths that have emerged within the podcast sphere. They talk about their own experiences, such as moving Shane out and Big Jay taking a position, which illustrates the opportunities arising for comedic talent in the digital space. Luis J. Gomez highlights how podcasting has allowed comedians to bypass traditional comedy venues, with Joe Rogan adding that podcasts provide a less competitive environment than radio. Additionally, Big Jay Oakerson and Luis J. Gomez credit Joe Rogan's podcast for boosting their careers and discuss how podcasting enables comedians to directly engage with a diverse audience outside of standard comedy clubs.
The Changing Standards and Expectations For Comedy Audiences
Today's Discerning Audiences Require Comedians to Sell Tickets and Connect Directly With Fans
The speakers reflect on how comedic success now hinges on an artist's ability to draw audiences and sell tickets. Joe Rogan recalls how comedians previously built followings through club performances, but now they need endorsements and personal connections with their peers to succeed. With the shift in the industry, comedians like Dave Attell had trouble adapting to the new prerequisite of ticket sales for bookings. Big Jay Oake ...
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Changing Comedy Industry and Rise Of Podcasting
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Clarifications
- "Legion of Skanks" is a comedy podcast hosted by comedians Big Jay Oakerson, Luis J. Gomez, and Dave Smith. The show features uncensored and unfiltered discussions on various topics, often pushing boundaries with its humor. It provides a platform for the hosts to express their comedic styles freely and engage with their audience in a raw and unfiltered manner. The podcast has gained a following for its edgy and unapologetic approach to comedy, attracting fans who appreciate its unfiltered and boundary-pushing content.
- "Opie and Anthony" was an American radio show hosted by Gregg "Opie" Hughes and Anthony Cumia, known for its "shock jock" humor and regular appearances by stand-up comedians. The show faced controversy and cancellation due to incidents like the Sex for Sam contest, leading to their move to XM Satellite Radio in 2004. The program was nationally syndicated and gained popularity for its edgy and irreverent style before transitioning to a subscription-based model on satellite radio.
- Dave Attell is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer known for hosting Comedy Central's "Insomniac with Dave Attell." He has appeared on various TV shows and specials, including VH1's Stand-Up Spotlight and HBO specials alongside comedians like Louis C.K. and Dave Chappelle. Attell's career spans stand-up comedy, television appearances, and writing for shows like Saturday Night Live.
- Pervasi ...
Counterarguments
- While podcasts and digital platforms offer new opportunities, they may not necessarily provide the same level of skill development as live performances in traditional comedy venues.
- The saturation of the podcast market could make it difficult for new comedians to stand out, potentially creating a different kind of competitive environment.
- The direct engagement with audiences through podcasts and social media can sometimes lead to echo chambers, where comedians are only exposed to feedback from a subset of fans who share their views.
- The reliance on social media and podcasts for audience engagement could disadvantage comedians who are less tech-savvy or who prefer more traditional methods of interaction.
- The pressure to sell tickets and connect with fans on social media could lead to a commodification of comedy, where the focus shifts from artistic expression to marketing and self-promotion.
- The impact of audience feedback on comedians' material could potentially stifle creative risks if comedians cater too much to audience preferences to avoid backlash.
- The increased visibility and scrutiny on social media can also lead to self-censorship among comedians who fear the repercussions of controversial material.
- The narrative that podcasts provide a less competitiv ...
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Roman Colosseum: History and Ancient Entertainment
The Roman Colosseum is not only an icon of ancient architectural prowess but also a testament to the complex social and entertainment structures of the Roman era.
Gruesome and Spectacular Entertainment in the Roman Era
Spectators of ancient Rome experienced a myriad of events at the Colosseum, from animal hunts involving exotic creatures to dramatic gladiator battles.
Animal Hunts, Gladiator Battles, and Other Thrilling Events
Luis J. Gomez and Joe Rogan point out that the Colosseum was a stage for displaying exotic animals such as giraffes and rhinoceroses, which would have appeared completely alien to the Roman audience. In these grand spectacles, animals were not only showcased but also pitted against humans in savage hunts and battles. For instance, the Colosseum hosted events where lions would be hunted.
Adding to the variety of spectacles, Rogan mentions how the Colosseum was a venue for water and boat fights as well. Furthermore, these events, often sponsored by the government, were free and served as a means to appease the populace.
Tech and Stagecraft Enhance Spectacle
Rogan and Gomez discuss the remarkable technical aspects of the Colosseum that elevated the spectacle, such as trapdoors used to introduce animals into the arena in dramatic fashion. In one instance, these trapdoors even allowed lions to leap out and be launched into the air, much to the shock and delight of onlookers.
Rogan also describes the underground pulley system that was used to hoist animals through the floor unexpectedly. These stagecraft techniques not only augmented the visual awe but were key in keeping audiences enthralled.
Misconceptions and Realities About the Gladiatorial Battles
Gladiatorial fights in the Colosseum are often thought of as deadly duels to the death, but the realities were different and more complex.
Some Fights Had Fatalities, but Gladiators Were Typically More Like Professional Wrestlers, Focusing On Entertainment Rather Than Killing
It's explained that gladiators' battles didn't often result in death. They were showmen, akin to today's professional wrestlers, focusing on performance over fatal outcomes. Rogan elaborates that gladiators aimed to avoid serious injury by inflicting superficial wounds on each other, sparing vital organs. If a gladiator were to kill another, the responsible party's owner would be required to compensate the deceased gladiator's owner, as the fighters were considered valuable assets.
Injuries were common, but s ...
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Roman Colosseum: History and Ancient Entertainment
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Actionables
- You can explore ancient engineering by creating a simple pulley system at home to understand the mechanics behind the Colosseum's spectacles. Start with household items like a rope and a wheel or spool to lift small objects, which will give you a hands-on appreciation for the ingenuity of Roman engineering.
- Enhance your understanding of social stratification by observing seating arrangements at a local sports event or theater. Notice how the layout and ticket pricing reflect modern social divisions, drawing parallels to the class distinctions of the Colosseum's audience.
- Develop a greater appreciation for ...
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Resistance to New Ideas in Institutions
Joe Rogan explores the academic world's resistance to unconventional theories, highlighting the challenges faced by scholars proposing alternative histories.
Academic Skepticism of Challenges to Conventional History
In the realm of academia, the tendency is to favor conventional explanations for historical and archaeological findings, even when these explanations may not align with emerging evidence or reasoning.
Discrediting Scholars Proposing Alternative Ancient Civilization Theories
Rogan brings up the case of Graham Hancock, a known proponent of the theory of an advanced ancient civilization predating known history. Hancock, among others who have put forward similar ideas, often faces significant skepticism and criticism from the academic community. Rogan discusses how the treatment of these scholars by the academic establishment can be less about evidence-based refutation and more about protecting traditional viewpoints.
Dismissing Unconventional Ideas As Racist or Biased
Moreover, Rogan delves into the specific accusation made by Flint Dibble against Hancock, associating his work on Atlantis with white supremacy. He discusses how some academics may label alternative theories about ancient civilizations as racist or biased. This labeling, as Rogan and his guests argue, may be employed as a tactic to maintain the academic status quo rather than to engage seriously with new or different interpretations.
Incentives Behind Maintaining the Status Quo In Academia
The discussion then turns to the underlying incentives and motivations that may drive the academic resistance to new ideas.
Reluctance to Overturn Long-Held Beliefs Despite New Evidence
Rogan cites the discovery of 22,000-year-old human footprints in White Sands, New Mexico, which disrupts ...
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Resistance to New Ideas in Institutions
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Counterarguments
- Academia's preference for conventional explanations is often based on rigorous peer review and a consensus-building process that ensures reliability and credibility.
- Skepticism and criticism are fundamental to the scientific method, ensuring that only theories with substantial evidence gain acceptance.
- Labeling ideas as racist or biased can sometimes be a legitimate critique if those ideas are based on or perpetuate racial stereotypes or unfounded assumptions about different cultures.
- The reluctance to overturn long-held beliefs is not solely due to resistance to change but also due to the requirement of robust evidence ...
Actionables
- You can foster open-mindedness by starting a book club focused on controversial historical theories. Choose books that present unconventional perspectives on history and organize regular discussions to explore these ideas critically. This encourages you to consider multiple viewpoints and understand the resistance to new theories.
- Develop a habit of questioning mainstream narratives by creating a "Challenge Journal." Each week, write down a widely accepted historical or archaeological claim and spend time researching alternative explanations. This practice helps you to become more critical of information and understand the dynamics of academic skepticism.
- Encourage diverse perspectiv ...
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Personal Experiences and Anecdotes About Driving and Cars
Joe Rogan, Big Jay Oakerson, and Luis J. Gomez share their experiences and thoughts on driving, emphasizing nostalgia for analog cars as well as discussing the challenges posed by modern automotive technology.
Nostalgia For Analog Cars and Driving Experiences
The conversationalists reflect on the appeal of less technologically advanced vehicles and their own driving experiences.
Preference for Manual Transmissions For Control and Engagement
Joe Rogan and Big Jay Oakerson both express a desire to see a resurgence of manual cars. Rogan took his driver's test in his mom's barracuda with a stick shift, showcasing his fondness for the hands-on aspect of driving. Oakerson talks about teaching his daughter to drive stick, emphasizing that it's a useful skill.
Rogan reflects on his first stick shift car, an Audi Fox, which let him feel more connected to the act of driving. He and Oakerson discuss the appeal of driving old cars with more direct control over the vehicle, compared to the smooth controls of modern cars with electric steering.
The Appeal of Older, Less Technologically Advanced Vehicles
Big Jay Oakerson recalls lusting after a "boxy looking Mustang 5.0," which was popularized by Vanilla Ice. Rogan acknowledges that it was a good car, and Oakerson shares a memory of wanting a Mazda Miata. Rogan talks about Miata conversions, where companies like Flying Miata would put a V8 engine in the small cars, enhancing their appeal.
They discuss the durability and lasting value of older vehicle brands such as Lexus, Acura, and Toyota Tacomas. Rogan specifically lauds the long-lasting nature of Tacoma trucks, calling them "bulletproof."
Luis J. Gomez and others mention how modern cars sometimes are styled to evoke a vintage look, and Oakerson expresses interest in getting an older car fitted with a new engine, wanting the classic driving experience.
The Challenges and Frustrations of Modern Automotive Technology
The group delves into the complications that come with the advanced technology present in modern vehicles.
Diagnosing and Repairing Modern Computer-Driven Cars
Oakerson laments how modern cars are filled with computers and how the engines are hidden under plastic coverings, making it difficult to work on them as people used to. He talks about the reliance on computers to diagnose issues, causing frustration when the check-engine light doesn't lead to a clear diagnosis or repair.
Joe Rogan echoes the sentiment, pointing out the complexity of modern cars and the shift in the work of mechanics. They both suggest that local mechanics may struggle because of the specialized computer programs needed for diagnostics and repairs.
Luis J. Gomez ...
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Personal Experiences and Anecdotes About Driving and Cars
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Miata conversions involve replacing the original engine in a Mazda Miata, a small and lightweight sports car, with a larger V8 engine for increased power and performance. Companies like Flying Miata specialize in these conversions, offering kits and services to modify the Miata's engine to accommodate the V8, transforming the car into a high-performance vehicle with enhanced speed and capabilities. This modification is popular among car enthusiasts looking to create a unique and powerful driving experience by combining the Miata's agile handling with the V8 engine's increased horsepower and torque. The result is a fusion of the Miata's nimble characteristics with the raw power and distinctive sound of a V8 engine, providing a thrilling driving experience for those seeking a blend of performance and handling in a compact sports car.
- Road hypnosis, also known as highway hypnosis, is a trance-like mental state that can occur during prolonged highway driving. It involves a lack of awareness of one's surroundings and can lead to reduced reaction times and increased risk of accidents. Driving for extended periods, especially at night when visibility is reduced and monotony is heightened, can exacerbate this phenomenon. It is essential for drivers to take breaks, stay alert, and avoid monotony to prevent road hypnosis and ensure safe driving practices.
- In the discussion, concerns were raised about a future scenario where corporate-owned vehicles might become prevalent, potentially leading to a shift in individual control over driving experiences. This apprehension reflects worries about a potential loss of autonomy and personal connection to driving if corporate entities dominate the automotive landscape. The conversation hints at a possible future where ownership models and driving dynamics could be significantly influenced by corporate interests, impacting the traditional relationship between drivers and their vehicles.
- Safety and emissions regulations impact the driving experience by influencing the design and performance of vehicles to meet certain standards for safety and environmental impact. These regulations can lead to changes in vehicle technology, affecting aspects like fuel efficiency, emissions control systems, and safety features. Compliance with these regulations can result in alterations to vehicle design, driving dynamics, and maintenance requirements. Additionally, advancements in safety and emissions technologies can enhance overall road safety and reduce the environmental footprint of vehicles.
- The reluctance to s ...
Counterarguments
- While manual transmissions may offer more control and engagement, automatic transmissions can be more practical for daily use, especially in heavy traffic conditions where constant shifting can be cumbersome.
- Modern cars with electric steering and advanced driver-assistance systems can enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, which can be seen as more important than the tactile experience for many drivers.
- The nostalgia for older vehicles may overlook the advancements in vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, and emissions that modern cars provide.
- While older vehicles like the Toyota Tacoma are praised for their durability, it's important to recognize that modern vehicles often come with improved safety features, better fuel economy, and lower emissions, which are significant benefits.
- The complexity of modern computer-driven cars can be seen as a positive development, as it often leads to more efficient diagnostics and repairs, despite the initial learning curve for mechanics.
- The high cost of repairs for modern vehicles can be offset by their increased reliab ...
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