#1223 - Greg Fitzsimmons
NaN minutesEpisode #1223
Greg Fitzsimmons is a writer and stand-up comedian. He also hosts a podcast with Alison Rosen called "Childish" available on Spotify.
Episodes with Greg Fitzsimmons
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Episode Timestamps
Hunter S. Thompson's Desks and Writing Style
- Discussion on the significance of desks in writing, with mention of Hunter S. Thompson's desk
- Reflecting on iconic photos of Hunter S. Thompson and his daily schedule
- Mention of documentaries like 'Gonzo' and the sentimental value of writers' furniture
Hemingway's Influence and Injury Risks in Skiing
- Comparing Hemingway's style and bravado with mention of a mainstream documentary 'Gonzo'
- Exploring Hemingway's preserved house in Havana and the impact of his writing
- Transition to the discussion on skiing injuries and the importance of knee protection
HIV Prevention and Treatment Progress in Africa
- Close to stopping HIV with advanced treatments
- HIV stabilization with affordable medication in Africa
- Impact of poor nutrition on higher HIV cases in Africa
Impact of Magic Johnson on HIV Awareness
- Fear and panic surrounding HIV epidemic in the past
- Magic Johnson's journey with HIV and public awareness
- Humorous references to Magic Johnson and Damon Wayans
Stand-up Comedy Reflections and Social Commentary: Prejudice & Stereotypes
- Discussion on the evolving social standards through stand-up comedy.
- Exploration of the fine line between portraying society and individual artistic expression.
- Controversy surrounding the depiction of ethnic groups and genders in comedy.
Observations on Cultural Stereotypes: The Case of Asian Walkways
- Anecdotes on Asian cultural quirks, like walking behavior in crowded places.
- Reflections on the interchange between humor, stereotype, and reality.
- Engagement with issues of political correctness, humor, and social observation.
Evolution of Sexual Behavior and Early Impact on Society
- Discussion on the evolution of sexual behavior from an absence of desire to a crucial aspect of life.
- Exploration of how societal norms around sex may have roots in historical necessity and reproduction concerns.
- Link between early pregnancies, parenting responsibilities, and the need for stability in a family unit.
The Devastating Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918
- Origins of the Spanish flu and its massive death toll exceeding World War I casualties.
- Spread of the virus through global migration and challenges faced in containing the outbreak.
- Comparison of the Spanish flu impact to historical plagues and the underestimation of its historical significance.
Evolution of Physical Fitness Trends and Icons
- Discussion about the physical fitness trends and transformations over the years
- Mention of iconic figures like Raquel Welch and Jane Fonda in influencing fitness culture
- Transition from traditional film actresses to modern fit actresses
Impact of Aerobics on Gender and Fashion Norms
- Exploration of the influence of aerobic workouts in the 70s and 80s
- Description of how aerobics influenced clothing and fashion for men and women
- Reflection on societal norms and acceptance of diverse styles post-aerobics era
Root Causes of Violence and Crime
- Discussion on underlying factors leading to violence and crime
- Importance of early childhood education in preventing violent behavior
- Impact of social environment on upbringing
Immigration and National Crisis
- Debate on immigration policies and border security
- Comparison between American openness and global travel freedom
- Importance of a balanced approach to immigration for societal benefit
Creative Process of Comedians
- Comedians explore and morph original premises over time through performance.
- Using old jokes as scaffolding can lead to new bursts of creative ideas.
- Challenging environments like late night sets with small audiences can enhance creativity and performance.
Adapting to Audience Sizes as a Comedian
- Adapting humor for different audience sizes: intimate rooms vs. large theaters.
- Challenges of timing and pacing in bigger venues compared to smaller clubs.
- The importance of connecting with the audience and finding one's natural voice.
Life in Florida: Liberals, Italians, and Cubans
- The speaker's mother moved to Florida, a politically contrasting setting from New York.
- Florida is depicted as having diverse demographics - locals comparable to Mississippi, old Italians, and a high Cuban population in Miami.
- Different regions of Florida are described as separate 'countries' due to varying cultures and influences.
Miami's Future: Quicksand and Environmental Challenges
- Discusses Miami's susceptibility to flooding due to its porous limestone soil.
- The conversation shifts to the dangers of quicksand and the potential threats it poses.
- Reflects on personal experiences, including saving someone from drowning at a waterfall in Costa Rica.
Case Study: Woman at Bus Stop - Struggling with Mental Health
- Woman at bus stop shows signs of severe mental health challenges, enduring harsh weather conditions and social isolation.
- Despite efforts from social workers and family, the woman remains at the bus stop, finding a sense of safety in her surroundings.
- Discussion on schizophrenia and challenges faced by individuals in accepting medication and seeking proper treatment.
Exploring Mental Health Treatment - Advances in Therapy
- Consideration of different aspects of mental health treatment, including medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and stigma surrounding mental illnesses.
- Challenges of dealing with depression discussed, along with the role of exercise and alternative treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation.
- Anecdote about UFC fighter Kat Zingano's experience with a different magnetic therapy for brain-related issues post-fight injuries.
Ben Roethlisberger's Struggles and Impact of Head Trauma
- Discussion on Ben Roethlisberger's decreased speed and agility due to frequent hits
- Personal experience of being hit in a kickboxing match and its effects
- Use of protective gear and the dangers of fighting on hard surfaces
Traumatic Brain Injuries and the Pituitary Gland
- Insights from Mark Gordon on traumatic brain injury and hormone production
- Long-term effects of head trauma on energy levels and mental health
- Examples of common activities leading to head trauma and its consequences
Timothy Leary & Steve Jobs Impact on Psychedelic Movement
- Timothy Leary popularized LSD as a tool for enlightenment and opposed to war
- Steve Jobs credited LSD for influencing his decision to start Apple
- Psychedelic movement gained momentum in Silicon Valley with influential figures like Bill Gates
Alfred Matthew Hubbard: The LSD Catalyst
- Alfred Hubbard, an early advocate of LSD, conducted corporate LSD experiences
- Hubbard's diverse career led him from wealth to bankruptcy in the pursuit of LSD advocacy
- Discussion on the societal resistance and potential benefits of psychedelic substances
Elite Female Fighters in MMA
- Only a small percentage of women pursue a career in MMA fighting
- Mention of notable female fighters such as Cat Zingano, Amanda Nunes, and Holly Holm
- Society's perception of female fighters compared to male fighters
The Journey of Elite Fighters and Future Retirement Plans
- Discussion on the rarity of women becoming successful in fighting sports
- Mention of Luke Rockhold and potential future in the adult film industry
- Challenges and injuries faced by fighters, including a personal experience of knee issues
Survival in Harsh Environments: Cold Exposure Dangers
- Discussion on the dangers of cold exposure and survival techniques.
- Emphasis on the risks of being exposed to cold water for extended periods.
- Example of a rewarming drill involving jumping into frozen water and heating up in a tent.
Historical Traversals and Survival: Pioneers and Western Intrigues
- Reflections on the challenges faced by historical figures like Lewis and Clark.
- Mention of the Cohn Brothers film 'The Ballad of Buster Scruggs' portraying the old West.
- Discourse on linguistic and cultural changes over time, referencing 'Deadwood' and modernizing language.
The Origins of Stand-Up Comedy and The Gaslight Club
- Luke Kirby's portrayal of Lenny Bruce in the series discussed
- Debate over the historical accuracy of the existence of comedy clubs in the past
- Exploration of the evolution of stand-up through the years
Historical Comedy Clubs and Pioneers of Stand-Up Comedy
- Discussion on the first comedy clubs like The Hungry Eye in San Francisco
- Mention of Mort Saul and Dick Gregory as early stand-up comedians
- Comparison between stand-up comedy in the UK and the US
Wild Boars in California - The Hunt
- Wild boars causing damage in California, especially in agriculture.
- Night hunting with special permits to address the pig problem.
- Legal hunting options available in California with specific licenses and tags.
Alligator Overpopulation in Florida
- Alligator population explosion due to protection efforts.
- Incidents of alligators preying on wildlife and even humans.
- Challenges and dangers of living near areas densely populated by alligators.
Bear Attack Survival: Real vs Movie
- Discussion on the intensity of a bear attack and its real-life consequences
- Anecdote on a friend shooting a moose in Canada and bears claiming the kill
- Exploration of bear behavior in relation to hunting scenarios
Alaska Bear Encounter and Hunting Precautions
- Narrative of a moose hunt in Alaska and the immediate claim by a bear
- Importance of caution in dealing with injured animals while hunting
- Insight into the fear and actions taken when encountering bears during hunting
Encounter in the Forest with Yoga Lady and Moral Implications
- Lady sharing experience of walking in the woods with love and protection
- 'Darwinism' concept discussed about survival of the fittest
- Overview of animals as predators with no moral values
Shocking Realities of Shark Population and Behavior
- Discussion on shark finning and millions of sharks killed annually
- Contradictory viewpoints on shark pregnancies
- Rising concerns over shark fishing practices and cultural shift towards shark conservation
Fishing Adventures in Hawaii and Encounter with Hamachi from Farm Breakage
- Caught a 613-pound yell tail fish in Hawaii
- Hamachi fish from a farm breakage in a storm now populating the ocean
- Enjoyed various dishes made from the fresh catch at the hotel
Majestic Dolphin Encounter and Discussion on Dolphin Intelligence
- Spectacular encounter with a group of dolphins swimming alongside the boat
- Reflections on dolphin intelligence, communication, and training capabilities
- Discussed the dark side of commercial fishing and the intelligence of marine animals
Irish Famine and Lobster Revelation
- During the Irish famine, lobsters were considered undesirable food
- One person cooked the lobster with butter which changed people's perspective
- Discussion about missed opportunities and the contrast between eating lobster and poverty
Upcoming Events and New Podcast Announcement
- Joe Rogan announces upcoming comedy shows in Cleveland and Boston
- Mention of charity event for intellectually disabled people featuring Bill Burr
- Introduction of a new podcast 'Childish' with Allison Rosen focusing on parenting