#1493 - Steve Schirripa & Michael Imperioli

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Challenges of Running a Sauce Business

  • Discussion about the challenges faced in the sauce business due to rapid growth
  • Exploration of the difficulties in dealing with distributors and stores
  • Anecdote about the struggles of maintaining control and profits in the business
• 00:01:42

  Impact of Economic Changes and Personal Experiences in New York

  • Reflection on economic changes and the impact on businesses and living conditions
  • Discussion on personal observations about the decline in public services and quality of life in New York
  • Anecdote about the decision to move and personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic
• 00:10:14

  The Impact of Quarantine on Podcast Consumption and The Sopranos

  • Discussion about the increase in consumers and viewership of shows and podcasts during the quarantine period
  • The resurgence of interest in 'The Sopranos' during the quarantine and its lasting impact as a top series
  • Exploration of the decision to start a rewatch podcast due to fan demand and the timeless quality of 'The Sopranos'
• 00:13:10

  Evolution of Television Dynamics with 'The Sopranos' and Tony Soprano's Character

  • Analysis of 'The Sopranos' as a pioneer in the modern era of TV shows with complex storylines and anti-hero characters
  • Appreciation of James Gandolfini's portrayal of Tony Soprano and the convergence of actor and role
  • Insight into the distinction between acting for television/film and theater, highlighting the unique challenges of each medium
• 00:20:33

  Discussion on Actors Transitioning to Stand-up Comedy

  • Exploration of actors like Jeremy Piven transitioning to stand-up comedy
  • Observations on the challenges and time it takes for comics to find their voice
  • Reflection on actors turning to stand-up due to income opportunities and touring
• 00:22:14

  Actor-Director Relationship and Handling Direction

  • Anecdotes about interactions with directors and line readings
  • Importance of creating a comfortable environment for actors to be creatively free
  • Personal experiences of learning to deal with directors to satisfy both parties
• 00:29:58

  Behind the Scenes of Filming and Production Challenges

  • Discussion about the challenges faced during filming a show with diverse actors
  • Anecdotes about scenes being re-shot and actors being replaced for various reasons
  • Insights into the behind-the-scenes dynamics and decision-making by directors
• 00:33:48

  Evolution of Stand-Up Comedy and Inspirational Figures

  • Personal reflections on the impact of Richard Pryor on the stand-up comedy scene
  • Comparisons between different comedy legends like Lenny Bruce, Sam Kinnison, and George Carlin
  • Exploration of the evolution of stand-up comedy from traditional jokes to personal and introspective performances
• 00:40:19

  Handling Hecklers and Show Setbacks

  • Discussion on starting over with material after specials
  • Anecdotes about dealing with hecklers in shows
  • Exploration of different comic approaches to heckling situations
• 00:48:11

  Unique Show Experiences and Difficult Gigs

  • Recollection of performing at challenging prom shows
  • Description of a unique performer and manager at Danger Fields
  • Anecdote about a strong Scottish individual involved in comedy club management
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• 00:59:39

  The Comedy Store Era and Rise of Stand-up Comedy Venues

  • Discussion on the significance of The Comedy Store as the Mecca of comedy
  • Exploration of the resurgence of comedy venues like The Improv, Laugh Factory, and Jimmy Kimmel's club in Las Vegas
  • Anecdotes about past fights attended, including iconic heavyweight bouts and meeting Muhammad Ali on the set of Sopranos
• 01:01:54

  Impact of Streaming and Live Events on Combat Sports

  • Insights on the unique experience of watching UFC fights without a live audience
  • Comparison between the excitement of MMA and boxing events, emphasizing the multi-dimensional nature of UFC fights
  • Discussion on the evolution of heavyweight division in boxing with examples of notable fighters and matches
• 01:11:00

  Mike Tyson's Comeback and Tyson Ranch

  • Discussion about Mike Tyson's comeback at age 53 and his decision to fight again
  • Overview of Tyson's physical transformation and training with MMA trainer Rafael Cordeiro
  • Mention of George Foreman's comeback in the boxing world and his success as the oldest heavyweight champion
• 01:13:00

  Cooking Competition and Culinary Skills

  • Description of Joe Rogan's experience in a cooking competition show with random ingredients and charity winnings
  • Insight into the cooking process under time pressure and use of unusual ingredients like squid and unpopped corn
  • Joe Rogan's cooking preferences and skills, especially in preparing elk meat
• 01:22:19

  Growing Up around Mob Enclaves and the Influence on Joe's Life

  • Joe Rogan talks about growing up in a neighborhood filled with mob members in Brooklyn during the 70s.
  • Discussion of knowing people who were involved with organized crime but not being directly part of it.
  • Anecdote about finding out later that individuals in the neighborhood, like a baseball coach, were connected to criminal activities.
• 01:24:30

  Theatrical Journey and Passion for Live Performances

  • Shift to Michael's journey into acting sparked by his father's community theater involvement.
  • Exploration of Michael's transition from considering a career in medicine to pursuing acting.
  • Creation of a theater in Manhattan and personal experiences with producing plays, directing, and performing on stage.
• 01:34:34

  Performing Live: From Stand-up Comedy to Acting in Plays

  • Joe Rogan shares his experience transitioning from fighting to stand-up comedy to acting in plays
  • Discussion on the pressure and nerves associated with live performances in front of large audiences
  • Insights into the challenges of being prepared and delivering a successful live performance
• 01:36:37

  Crafting a Stand-up Routine and Dealing with Audience Expectations

  • Exploration of combining set material with improvisation in stand-up routines
  • Observations on dealing with audience dynamics and expectations as a well-known comedian
  • Advice on the importance of being prepared and having tried-and-tested material for successful stand-up performances
• 01:46:49

  Jim Gandolfini's Real Personality and Harvey Weinstein's Rise and Fall

  • Discussion about Jim Gandolfini's contrast with his Tony Soprano persona and his real laid-back personality
  • Insight into Harvey Weinstein's intimidating power and his reluctance towards talk shows
  • Anecdotes about interactions with Jim Gandolfini and Harvey Weinstein revealing their true characters and experiences in the industry
• 01:48:59

  Harvey Weinstein's Abuses and Surrounding Silence

  • Exploration of Harvey Weinstein's abusive behaviors and the culture of silence surrounding his actions
  • Analysis of power dynamics in Hollywood and how individuals were complicit in enabling Weinstein
  • Discussion on the aftermath of Weinstein's downfall and the impact on Hollywood's perception and future behavior
• 01:57:17

  The Hollywood Casting Couch and Scandals

  • Discussion about the dynamics of the Hollywood casting couch and the power dynamics between filmmakers and actresses
  • Mention of the historical perspective and scandals like the Fatty Arbuckle case
  • Conversation about the downfall of Harvey Weinstein and the impact of his actions on the industry
• 01:59:16

  Views on CGI Acting and Show Business

  • Reflections on the potential use of CGI in films and its impact on portraying controversial characters
  • Conversations about preferences for acting and dislike towards show business
  • Exchanges about personal career paths and experiences in the entertainment industry
• 02:08:50

  Social Movements and Cultural Impact

  • Discussion on being labeled due to movements and news portrayal
  • Exploration of woke ideology's spread and impact
  • Hopeful outlook on the impact of protest movements and societal integration
• 02:14:19

  Entertainment Industry and Virtue Signaling

  • Examination of actors' virtue signaling and its reception
  • Critique of using celebrity platform for societal issues
  • Humorous take on virtue signaling through a comedian's act
• 02:19:40

  Celebrities Responding to Pandemic and Social Issues

  • Discussion about celebrities' response to pandemic and social issues
  • Mention of controversial songs and actions by celebrities during the pandemic
  • Importance of understanding the impact of celebrities' words and actions on the public during challenging times
• 02:21:23

  Impacts of the Pandemic on Daily Life and Public Health

  • Personal experiences shared regarding the effects and challenges of the pandemic
  • Focus on public health issues, including Vitamin D deficiency and immune system strengthening
  • Reflections on societal issues like alcohol consumption and mental health during lockdown
• 02:30:36

  Performing in Clubs and Theaters Across the World

  • Joe Rogan discusses his experiences performing in various cities like London, Adelaide, and others
  • Anecdotes about canceled tours and rescheduling shows for the future
  • Mentions the success of live shows and the interactions with the audience
• 02:32:29

  Uncertainty and the Future Plans

  • Reflection on the uncertainty of future events and the impact of current times on plans
  • Discussion on the podcast 'Talking Sopranos' and where to access it
  • Wrap-up and gratitude expressed by the hosts and guests