#1381 - Donnell Rawlings
NaN minutesEpisode #1381
Donnell Rawlings is a stand up comedian, actor, and podcaster. He’s known best for his roles on Chappelle’s Show and The Wire. Look for his new podcast "The Donnell Rawlings Show" coming soon.
Episodes with Donnell Rawlings
Watch the full episode of #1381 - Donnell Rawlings.
Episode Timestamps
Discussion on Rapping and Music Influences
- Experiences of rapping and perception of being asked to 'spit hot 16'
- Reflections on favorite rap songs and evolution of music listening experience
- Influence of iconic music groups like Sugar Hill and impactful memories of old-school music
Military Experience and Young Adult Life
- Insights into military experience in Korea and reasons for early enlistment
- Challenges of underage enlistment and cultural contrasts in military life
- Discussion on alcohol rations in the military and unique experiences as a young recruit
Riddick Bowe's need for discipline leads him to join the Marines
- Riddick Bowe, a former world champion struggling with discipline and conditioning, joined the Marines seeking for discipline.
- Despite his millionaire status, Bowe felt the need for external discipline to push him into shape.
- Bowe's short-lived Marine experience highlighted the challenge of brain trauma in making crucial life decisions.
Sugar Ray Leonard's boxing journey and tough decisions post-retirement
- Sugar Ray Leonard's illustrious boxing career, marked by epic battles against Roberto Duran and Tommy Hearns, raised admiration and hate.
- Leonard's post-retirement fights with Hector Camacho and Terry Norris signalled a decline in his condition, prompting questions about fighters knowing when to quit.
- The story transitions to Andre Ward's refusal to return to the ring, emphasizing the importance of health and decision-making for retired boxers.
Cooking Science with Suvi: A Culinary Adventure
- Introduction to cooking with suvi and its scientific method-like process
- Using special equipment like vacuum sealer and thermometer for precision
- Discussing the unique experience of cooking in a plastic bag and blow torching for finishing
Exploring Wild Game: From Cooking Techniques to Comparing Meat Texture
- Comparison between different meat textures like cow and wild game
- Experimentation with cuts like tri tip and back straps for roasting
- Sharing the process of cooking, including temperature control and final searing
Donnell Talks About Phone Addiction and Social Media Obsession
- Donnell discusses people's reluctance to detach from their phones, even when attending live shows where phones are locked up.
- He highlights the obsession with sharing every moment on social media and seeking validation through online interactions.
- The conversation shifts to Dave Chappelle's approach to avoiding social media and staying focused on his craft.
Reflections on Losing a Phone and the Impact of Constant Connectivity
- Donnell shares his personal experience of losing a phone and realizing the extent of reliance on it.
- He mentions Ari Shaffir's four-month challenge of living without a phone for a reality show.
- The discussion leads to an overview of how smartphones have evolved and transformed daily life in the past decade.
Joe Rogan and Tacoma Dome: Defining Comedy Moments
- Comic experience: Relating to the joy and honor of performing comedy in challenging rooms
- Joe Rogan at Tacoma Dome: Highlighting a memorable comedy performance
- Facing defining moments: Embracing the pressure and thrill of stretching one's comedy skills
Kevin Smith: Embracing Creativity and Independence
- Kevin Smith's approach to fun: Prioritizing enjoyable projects and creativity
- Transition to independent filmmaking: Discussing Kevin Smith's unique path and longevity
- Exploring new genres: Reflecting on Kevin Smith's venture into horror with 'Red State'
Bobcat Goldthwait - First Season Director of Chappelle Show
- Bobcat Goldthwait, the first season director of Chappelle Show, is described as a thoughtful guy who is obsessed with Bigfoot.
- Despite being a good actor, he struggled to break out of his 'Bobcat' character when he started doing stand-up comedy again.
- He is praised for his unique approach to comedy and his willingness to reinvent himself.
The Impact and Legacy of Dave Chappelle's Comedy
- Discussion on the iconic status of Chappelle Show and its impact on pop culture.
- Highlights of memorable sketches like 'Black KKK Member' and 'Rick James'.
- Reflecting on the freedom of expression in comedy and the importance of Chappelle's work in paving the way for comedians to speak their minds.
Cultural Expectations and Compliance
- Shift in cultural expectations on compliance and behavior
- Discussion on the importance of being nice and respectful
- Highlighting the negative impact of enforcing one's ideas on others
Polarization and Misconceptions
- Observations on the increasing polarization in society
- Importance of understanding and respecting different viewpoints
- Critique on the constant negativity in interactions and conflicts over politics
Dave Chappelle's Views on Gun Laws & Overzealous Police Officer
- Discussion on gun laws and the impact on black communities
- Example of a solution suggested by Dave Chappelle on gun laws
- Importance of self-protection and environmental factors in gun violence
Nipsey Hussle's Role in Community Empowerment & Tragic Death
- Nipsey Hussle's positive impact on the community through business and mentorship
- Tragedy of Nipsey Hussle's fatal shooting despite his efforts for change
- Reflection on community responsibility to uplift and support each other
Mentorship in DC Comedy with Fat Doctor, Tony Woods, and Martin Lawrence
- Fat Doctor, a prominent mentor in DC comedy during the 80s, influenced many comedians including Martin Lawrence and Tony Woods.
- His teachings and guidance were invaluable to young comics, emphasizing the importance of unique style and presence.
- The legacy of mentors like Fat Doctor continues to shape the comedy scene, with lasting impacts on both emerging and established comedians.
Comedic Influence and Mentorship in the Comedy Scene
- Tony Woods, a highly regarded but underrated comic, had considerable success overseas and was known for his smooth delivery.
- Mentors like Lennie Clark in Boston and the guidance provided by experienced comedians helped shape the careers of emerging talents.
- The significance of mentors in honing skills, refining acts, and distinguishing oneself in a competitive industry is crucial for sustained success.
Encouraging Everyone to Start Comedy
- Emphasizes the art form of stand-up comedy
- Encourages people to try comedy and start a podcast
- Highlights the idea that anyone can attempt stand-up comedy with practice and have their own successful platform
Venturing into Podcasting
- Narrates experience of starting a podcast
- Discusses the importance of consistency and putting out content regularly
- Expresses excitement and satisfaction in creating a podcast and empowering others to do the same
Conversation on Podcast Production
- Discussion about producing podcasts for each other
- Mention of Orlando and similar-looking individuals showing up
- Decision to move forward and support each other in podcast production
Engrossing Audiobook on Comanche and Settlers
- Fascination with audiobook 'Empire of the Summer Moon'
- Exploration of the Comanche tribe and settlers' history
- Details on the conflicts and daily lives of Native Americans
Comanche: Masters of the Bow and Bison Hunt
- Comanche warriors were incredibly strong, pulling back heavy recurve bows daily, resulting in bone deformities.
- Their hunting methods were brutal, including setting fire to fields and driving buffaloes into rivers.
- Life for the Comanche was a constant survival battle, heavily reliant on successful buffalo hunts for food.
Native Americans' Impact on Buffalo Population
- Native American tribes, especially the Comanche, on horses were highly effective in hunting buffaloes, leading to a decline in the population.
- The introduction of horses by Europeans significantly changed the dynamics of hunting and warfare.
- The book discusses the ruthless tactics of the Comanche in raids on settlers, revealing the harsh realities of survival in the wild west.
Female Magicians in the Spotlight
- Discussion about the scarcity of female magicians in the industry
- Names of some female magicians like Faye Presto, Misty Lee, Ninkai Christin Johnson, and Dorothy Detrick mentioned
- Exploration of stereotypes and challenges faced by female magicians
Gender Dynamics in Magic Industry
- Debate over the role of female magicians vs. assistants
- Reflections on confidence and competition in the magic field
- Examining societal barriers and perceptions affecting female magicians