#1046 - Owen Smith cover

#1046 - Owen Smith

NaN minutesEpisode #1046

Owen Smith is a comedian, writer, actor and television producer.

Watch the full episode of #1046 - Owen Smith.

Episode Timestamps

  • Exploring Australia with Garrison Keeler and Comedy Culture

    • Discussion about Australians traveling to see comedy in the US.
    • Comparison of population sizes between Australian states and US cities.
    • Reflections on rustic living in Alaska and experiences with local wildlife.
  • The Downfall of Male Public Figures: Garrison Keeler and Matt Lauer

    • The unexpected fall of notable figures Garrison Keeler and Matt Lauer amid allegations.
    • Conversations around societal perceptions of male feminists and their intentions.
    • Stories illustrating the chaotic behavior of men in the context of sexual advances.
  • Dating Dynamics: From Movie Theaters to Virginity Complex by a Promiscuous Woman

    • The speaker reflects on a past relationship where he experienced mixed signals from a woman who was openly sexual.
    • He discusses the concept of 'born again virgins' and the frustration it brings for men who missed out on previous experiences.
    • The dynamic of changing partners, like trying to improve them physically or socially, is examined, highlighting societal pressures on both genders.
  • Food Fads: C.T. Fletcher’s Vegan Views and Thanksgiving Pie Controversy

    • C.T. Fletcher shares his perspective on veganism, emphasizing health over animal rights and the backlash from the vegan community.
    • The speaker humorously recounts the failure of his vegan pie at Thanksgiving, comparing it to a traditional version.
    • A discussion on cooking techniques for vegan dishes reveals societal attitudes towards plant-based diets.
  • Food Philosophy with Prince's Fan: Joe Rogan Discusses Dietary Changes and Child Development

    • Joe Rogan shares insights on the dangers of gluten and the specific challenges of changing dietary habits after turning 40.
    • He discusses the benefits of potato-based gnocchi and contrasts it with traditional grain-based pasta.
    • Rogan highlights his son's early development, including sign language and a strong affinity for Prince's music.
  • Clever Strategies: Joe Rogan's Childhood Tactics to Deal with Bullies

    • Rogan recounts his experience growing up in Prince George's County, Maryland, dealing with a local bully.
    • He cleverly used karate trophies to create a facade of toughness to avoid conflicts with bullies.
    • Rogan emphasizes the importance of humor and strategic thinking in navigating social challenges during childhood.
  • Owen's Comedy Dreams and the Yelling Community of DC

    • Owen reflects on how fear in his community stifled dreams, including his desire to be a comedian since age nine.
    • He recounts a bitter dispatcher at a limo company who discouraged his aspirations and wanted him to work more hours.
    • The narrative includes the significance of Go Go music in DC and Owen's childhood friend, Black Boo, who later achieved Grammy recognition.
  • Owen's Early Comedy Experiences and Chappelle's Bombing at Greenbelt

    • Owen began doing comedy at the Greenbelt Comedy Connection, where he witnessed a young Dave Chappelle experience a significant bombing on stage.
    • He describes the supportive atmosphere among comedians, highlighting Tony Woods' performance following Chappelle's struggles.
    • Owen emphasizes the nurturing support he received from fellow comedians, which was a unique experience for him.
  • Mike Brooks and the Struggles of Early Stand-Up Comedy

    • The narrator recalls their journey into comedy, first influenced by Mike Brooks, a fellow comedian from eighth grade.
    • Highlights include performing at various venues such as Cabba Rays and the Comedy Connection in Laurel, facing challenging audiences.
    • The narrator learns valuable lessons about resilience and self-promotion through experiences of silence and failure on stage.
  • Franklin Ajai's Influence on Comedy and Identity

    • Franklin Ajai, a notable comedian, shares his experiences of living in Australia and returning to America for better opportunities.
    • The conversation reflects on how comedians felt pressured to fit molds based on audience expectations and stereotypes.
    • The struggle to maintain authenticity in performance is emphasized, discussing the differences between alt rooms and traditional comedy settings.
  • Tony Woods and the Comedic Landscape: A Dive into Relationships and Career Paths

    • Discussion about comedian Tony Woods and his impact in the comedy scene since 1992.
    • Exploration of how personal relationships, especially marriage and divorce, affect comedians' careers.
    • Highlights the perception of success in comedy, comparing the journeys of performers such as Owen Smith and Ian Edwards.
  • The Transformation of Fatherhood: Discovering Identity and Reflection

    • Insight into the speaker's experiences with fatherhood and the changes it brings to personal identity.
    • Discussion about the profound realizations gained through parenting and the effect it has on viewing others.
    • Critique of the motivational speaking industry, underscoring the difference between genuine accomplishment and superficial success.
  • Joe Rogan Pushes Boundaries at College Gig with Comedy Central Star

    • Joe Rogan reflects on performing an intense hour set at a college gig against a popular Comedy Central comedian.
    • He notes the competitive atmosphere and his desire to impress and outshine his fellow comic during the performance.
    • The encounter leads Rogan to analyze the nature of motivational speaking and the authenticity of certain motivators in the industry.
  • Rogan and Friends Challenge Themselves to 15 Hot Yoga Classes in a Month

    • Joe Rogan discusses his experience participating in a rigorous Sober October challenge with friends, including Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer.
    • They committed to 15 hot yoga classes in a month, leading to a transformative yet exhausting journey that tested their limits.
    • Rogan humorously explores the concept of tantric yoga and the benefits of male Kegel exercises, revealing personal insights and experiences.
  • Kevin Spacey's Disturbing Behavior on Set Revealed

    • Discussion of Kevin Spacey's inappropriate conduct on the set of House of Cards.
    • Recollections from victims describing his predatory actions, including sexually inappropriate touching.
    • Contextual comparison of past workplace harassment norms versus current standards of accountability.
  • Harvey Weinstein's Manipulation and the Culture of Silence

    • Examination of Harvey Weinstein's influence and power dynamics in Hollywood.
    • Personal stories highlighting the struggles and fears of sexual assault victims.
    • Reflection on societal changes and hopes for a more transparent communication environment.
  • Matt Lauer's $25 Million Contract: The Cost of Silence and Hypocrisy

    • Discussion on the high payouts of sexual harassment settlements by prominent figures like Matt Lauer and Bill O'Reilly.
    • Highlight the hypocrisy in conservative values versus private behaviors among powerful men in the entertainment industry.
    • Examination of the cultural dynamics and suppressed desires that fuel such scandals within the industry.
  • Wesley Goodman: The Anti-LGBTQ Lawmaker's Scandal Exposed

    • Details of Wesley Goodman, an anti-gay lawmaker, being caught in a gay sex scandal leading to his resignation.
    • Insights into the contradictions of public figures advocating against LGBTQ rights while engaging in hidden behaviors.
    • Discussion on the need for transparency and the consequences of moral hypocrisy in politics and entertainment.
  • Chris Rock's Impact on Comedy: How Ali's Show Ignited Punch-Up Writing for Me

    • Showrunner Ali challenged me to improve a scene, leading to my first successful comedic contribution.
    • Chris Rock encouraged me to provide punch-up jokes, showing his approval and boosting my confidence.
    • I learned the importance of collaboration in comedy and transitioned into punch-up writing organically.
  • Overcoming Fears: My Path from Midwest Comedian to Writing for Conan

    • A chance encounter with Chewy at the Comedy Store left me intimidated and hesitant to pursue stand-up in LA.
    • After several successful commercials, I was tempted to become a morning radio DJ, which conflicted with my comedy aspirations.
    • I finally navigated my way to a writer's job in New York after years of perseverance and growth in the industry.
  • From Chicago Dreams to Air Mattress: The Struggle of an Aspiring Comedian

    • The narrator walked away from a $220,000 radio gig in 1999, aiming for a career in comedy.
    • Upon moving to Los Angeles, financial expectations fell short as a Viacom commercial deal fell apart.
    • Living on an air mattress, the narrator navigated a challenging period of acting classes and aspiring to perform at the famed Comedy Store.
  • Chris Rock’s Influence: Finding My Place in the Comedy Scene

    • After watching Chris Rock perform at the Comedy Store, the narrator sought acceptance in the prominent comedy venue.
    • The narrator expressed admiration for Tommy, the club's manager, who provided opportunities for stage time.
    • Experiences at various comedy clubs, including a pivotal encounter with a waitress, shaped the narrator's path in stand-up comedy.
  • Owen Smith's Unexpected Weekend Romance and the Reality of Stand-Up Comedy

    • Owen Smith reflects on a surprising romantic encounter during a weekend away from the club.
    • He shares insights into the dynamic of relationships among bartenders and comedians.
    • Despite his early confidence in comedy, he evolved to focus more on his craft than on romantic pursuits.
  • Owen Smith's Bold Approach to Comedy: The Kobe Bryant Joke That Broke Boundaries

    • Smith discusses his decision to tackle controversial subjects in his comedy, including a joke about Kobe Bryant.
    • He describes the success of his performance during NACA Nationals, breaking the mold of safe comedy.
    • Despite setbacks in his special’s production, Smith learned valuable lessons about authenticity and crowd engagement.
  • Owen Smith's Struggles with Comedy Direction and Netflix Special Rejections

    • Owen Smith recounts his experience of not paying a director for a comedy special due to their inexperience with comedy, emphasizing his confidence in the process.
    • After struggling with financing for ten years, Owen turned to filming his special on iPhones, costing him less than $1,000, except for editor fees.
    • Smith's journey included facing rejection from Netflix, which stated he wasn't famous enough, even as many lesser-known comedians had specials on the platform.
  • The Comedy Store Renaissance: Owen Smith Reflects on Talent Levels and Upcoming Charity Event

    • Owen discusses the remarkable talent explosion at The Comedy Store, citing performances from comedians like Theo Vaughn and his own experiences from past decades.
    • He reflects on the rigorous standards at the Comedy Store today compared to the past, noting the transformation in audience expectations.
    • Owen promotes an upcoming charity benefit for 'Fight for the Forgotten', supporting clean water initiatives in the Congo, featuring notable comedians like Tom Segura and Whitney Cummings.
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