
#1271 - Billy Corben
Billy Corben is a documentary producer and director, best known for his films “Cocaine Cowboys ” & “Cocaine Cowboys 2″ and also “Broke” & “The U” for ESPN’s 30 for 30 series. His latest film "Screwball" releases in theaters on March 29, and VOD will be available on April 5.
Episodes with Billy Corben
Related Episodes
Categories
Key Takeaways
Florida's culture is defined by absurdity and lawlessness.
Understanding this reveals insights about societal behaviors in crime-ridden areas.
Documentary filmmaking can face creative challenges when tackling complex narratives.
This highlights the importance of innovative storytelling in non-fiction.
Miami's diverse culture stems from historical events like the Mariel Boat Lift.
Understanding this history helps contextualize current social dynamics and challenges.
Corruption in Florida politics, exemplified by Medicare fraud, raises concerns about governance.
This reflects broader issues in U.S. political systems and public trust.
The OxyContin epidemic in Florida led to tragic societal impacts.
Understanding the drug crisis can inform better regulatory measures and prevent future issues.
Watch the full episode of #1271 - Billy Corben.
Episode Timestamps
Exploring the Absurdity of Florida's Cocaine Culture and History
- Miami's unique culture is deeply intertwined with crime and absurdity.
- Documentaries about sports scandals often reveal unexpected storytelling challenges.
- The A-Rod steroid scandal exemplifies larger themes of corruption and chaos.
Miami's Unique Culture and Challenges Highlighted Amidst Controversy
- The Mariel Boat Lift significantly impacted Miami's cultural and social landscape.
- Corruption and Medicare fraud are prevalent in Florida's political landscape.
- Miami serves as a bellwether for potential national challenges facing the U.S.
Discussing Florida's Oxy Epidemic and Human Trafficking Issues
- Florida's pill mill epidemic contributed to a significant drug-related death toll.
- Human trafficking discussions often blur the lines with consensual sex work.
- Political figures evade accountability amid serious healthcare fraud allegations.
Discussion on Legalization and Regulation of Adult Activities
- Prohibition creates danger and illegality around consensual adult activities.
- Legalization could lead to safer environments for participants in adult activities.
- Historical evidence shows prohibition often results in increased crime and health issues.
Exploring the highs of performance-enhancing substances and marijuana
- The speaker shares personal experiences with performance-enhancing drugs like Adderall.
- Humorous anecdotes about trying marijuana for the first time at a Snoop concert.
- Discussion about the varying effects of cannabis strains like sativa and indica.
Critique of Prosperity Gospel and Religious Hypocrisy
- Discussion on the financial exploitation in prosperity gospel teachings.
- Critique of prominent religious figures and their lavish lifestyles.
- Reflection on the community aspect of churches versus individual hypocrisy.
Exploring Ignorance, Failure, and Growth in Comedy and Life
- Ignorance can lead to individuals being taken advantage of, like with Scientology.
- Failures in life and comedy are crucial for personal and artistic growth.
- Empathy and understanding different perspectives can enrich one’s worldview.
Exploring the Controversial A-Rod Steroid Scandal and Its Impact
- The podcast delves into the A-Rod steroid scandal's complexities and repercussions.
- Discussion includes the involvement of felons and stolen documents in MLB investigations.
- The impact of steroids on baseball performance and historical context is examined.
Discussion of American values and celebrity culture in politics
- The conversation critiques the normalization of dubious ethics in American values.
- They discuss the implications of celebrity influence on political behavior.
- Stormy Daniels' situation is examined concerning societal perceptions and comedy.
Discussion on America's Values and Steroid Culture in Sports
- The conversation highlights concerns about youth values influenced by adult behaviors.
- Steroid usage in sports is examined through its impact on perceptions of hard work.
- Humorous moments arise from discussions about medical legitimacy and qualifications of illegal practitioners.
Chiropractic Practices and the Dark Side of Anti-Aging Clinics
- Chiropractors often claim to cure ailments beyond back pain, raising concerns.
- Entrepreneurial doctors exploit prescription pads for anti-aging treatments in Florida.
- Youth sports are increasingly involved in controversial hormone treatments for performance.
Exploring the Legacy of Steroid Use in Baseball
- The discussion highlights Bud C. League's role in baseball's steroid era.
- Alex Rodriguez is presented as a key figure in the steroid narrative.
- The podcast touches on the complexities of creating a documentary on this topic.
Exploring Miami's Corruption Through Theater and Cocaine Cowboys
- Cocaine Cowboys highlights Miami's drug culture and its contemporary relevance.
- The play features dual roles reflecting contrasting societal issues and characters.
- Corruption in Miami is linked to systemic issues, particularly in law enforcement.
Exploring Miami's Cultural Landscape and Historical Contexts
- Discussion highlights the complex history of Miami's cultural environment.
- Griselda Blanco's story is compared to a dramatic narrative like 'Game of Thrones'.
- The importance of live theater in Miami's cultural scene is emphasized.
Exploring A-Rod's Complex Legacy and Rehabilitation Journey
- Alex Rodriguez's public image has transformed significantly over the years.
- Tony Bosch's controversial role in A-Rod's steroid scandal highlights ethical dilemmas.
- The podcast discusses the intricacies of personal reinvention post-scandal.
People Mentioned
Unknown
Unnamed Speaker
Commentator
Snoop Dogg
Musician
Joel Osteen
Evangelical Pastor
George Carlin
Comedian
Alex Rodriguez
Former MLB Player, Public Figure, Professional Baseball Player
Tony Bosch
Anti-aging clinic operator, Medical practitioner of dubious credentials, Performance Enhancement Specialist, Former Doctor
Porter Fisher
Felon involved in the scandal
Bill Clinton
Former President of the United States
Stormy Daniels
Adult film actress, public figure
Kim Kardashian
Media Personality
Brian Blanco
Child actor
Bud C. League
Former MLB Commissioner
Yancey Arias
Producer, Actor
David Sipkin
Co-Producer, Editor
Michelle Hausman
Director
Zilla Mendoza
Actress
Griselda Blanco
Drug lord, Cultural symbol
Places Mentioned
Miami
City
Cuba
Country
Florida
State
Colorado
U.S. State
Austin, Texas
U.S. City
Coconut Grove
Location
Fountain Blue Hotel
Hotel
Miami Beach Lincoln Road
Theater location
Notable Quotes
"Miami today America tomorrow."
Discussing the chaotic and lawless nature of Miami.
"I mean, that's like the Florida fuckery story straight up."
Referring to the bizarre incidents in Florida's culture.
"Miami today is America tomorrow."
Discussing the socio-political landscape of Miami as indicative of national trends.
"Could never prove it, never able to trace back. Pretty well convinced revenge shooting."
Referring to the violence among Mariel refugees and systemic issues in Miami.
"white rich men kind walk raindrops country."
Discussing how privilege affects accountability in controversial cases.