#1547 - Colin Quinn
NaN minutesEpisode #1547
Comedian Colin Quinn is a veteran of stage and screen, with notable stints as a cast member of "Saturday Night Live", host of Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn", and star of multiple one-man shows on and off Broadway. Quinn is also the author of several books, the most recent of which is Overstated: A Coast-to-Coast Roast of the 50 States. Check out his new show "Cop Show" available now on Colin's YouTube channel:
Episodes with Colin Quinn
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Episode Timestamps
Life in New York City - Past and Present
- Joe Rogan and the guest discuss the changes in New York City over time, comparing the present situation to the past
- Conversation includes reminiscing about the '70s in New York, crime rates, Giuliani's impact on the city
- Exploration of current issues in New York such as boarded-up stores, deserted streets, and the influence of political leadership
The Necessity of Grit and Toughness in Urban Living
- Discussing the concept of 'grit' and toughness required to live in gritty urban environments like New York City
- Anecdotes shared about the experiences of being mugged, stabbed, and facing hardships in city life
- Reflecting on the essence of true grit through challenging and sometimes dangerous situations
Challenges of Law Enforcement and Public Perception in the Past
- Description of the law enforcement challenges in the 80s and 90s in New York with lack of respect towards the police.
- Comparison of public perception of the police then and now, highlighting a shift towards resentment.
- Anecdotes and observations of the dangerous and disrespectful climate towards law enforcement in earlier decades.
Social Dynamics, Media Influence, and Political Commentary
- Discussion on social media influence and the viral nature of negative incidents shaping public perception.
- Reflecting on racial tensions, hidden resentments, and the role of police as scapegoats in societal conflicts.
- Humorous exchange on political figures, debates, and the need for stronger moderation and leadership in public forums.
Vikings, Mushrooms, and Fighting on Drugs
- Discussion on Vikings possibly using hallucinogenic mushrooms like Amanita Muscaria
- Exploration of the effects of drugs, like mescaline, on violent behavior
- Anecdotes about fighters using mushrooms for enhanced performance in combat sports
Sweet 16 Party Brawl and Comedy Performances
- Narrative of a chaotic incident at a sweet 16 party involving drugs and violence
- Reflection on early comedy gigs with challenging audience dynamics
- Insights into refining comedy material through small, intimate shows
Adapting Comedy Shows During the Pandemic
- Discussion about the challenges of performing comedy during the pandemic and exploring alternative outdoor venues like parking lots and parks
- Description of drive-in comedy shows and their unique dynamics with audience interaction
- Insight into the impact of virtual shows on the comedy industry and performers' experiences
Future of Comedy Clubs and Audience Dynamics
- Exploration of the changing landscape of comedy clubs and the necessity of adapting to new safety measures such as rapid testing
- Discussion about audience behavior and the importance of curating the audience for a better comedy experience
- Humorous anecdotes about audience members and the challenges of managing a diverse crowd
Evolution of Comedy Store and Tough Years
- Discussion about the transformation of The Comedy Store and its staff being mostly comedians
- Exploration of the rough times at The Comedy Store in the early '90s with gang nights and a decline in quality
- Observations on the impact of influential comedians like Kinison leaving and the changes in the comedy scene
Challenges Faced by Comedians and Audience Interactions
- Conversation about the difficulties of developing new material when audience members shout out punchlines
- Comparison of audience dynamics for musicians versus comedians
- Anecdotes involving Sam Kinison's performances and struggles with evolving his act
Early Comedy Days and Club Scene with Unique Personalities
- Joe Rogan recounts anecdotes from the early comedy days with Andy Hinton and Ron Shock
- Discussion about the vibrant comedy community at the Laugh Stop club in Houston
- Insight into the eccentric but passionate personalities of club owners like Mark Babbit and the unique comedy scene of that era
Boston Comedy Scene and Local Material Dynamics
- Exploration of the Boston comedy scene with iconic figures like Lenny Clark, Mike Clark, Sweeney, Gavin, and Rodgerson
- Description of the challenges faced by comedians from out of town due to localized humor expectations and intentional setups for failure by local acts
- Insight into the competitive and sometimes ruthless nature of the Boston comedy circuit, where headliners were strategically pitted against each other
Surviving the Gauntlet: Dom Ireira and Bill Hicks
- Discussion about surviving tough audiences as a comedian
- Dom Ireira's success in handling a challenging crowd
- Anecdote about Bill Hicks managing a tough show and his unique comedic style
Comedy Scenes in Boston and New York: Unique Dynamics
- Comparison of comedy scenes in Boston and New York in the 80s
- Focus on crowd work as a significant element of stand-up comedy
- Exploration of the impact of space limitations on comedy club dynamics in New York
Stand-up Comedy and Audience Engagement
- Importance of stand-up comedy in staying mentally engaged and connected
- Discussion on audience reactions and expectations towards comedians
- Exploration of the need for constant performance and adaptation in comedy
Evolution of Comedy Shows and Audience Relationships
- Importance of showcase clubs for comedians to test their material with diverse audiences
- Observation on the unique role of audience feedback in comedy
- Reflections on changing dynamics in comedy performances over time
Transition from LA Comedy Scene & the Impact of TV Shows on Stand-up
- Discussion on comedians leaving LA due to changing dynamics
- Exploration of how TV shows used to influence stand-up comedy aspirations
- Reflections on the shift in focus from TV projects to stand-up comedy among comedians
Gender Challenges in Stand-up Comedy
- Insights on challenges faced by women in the comedy industry
- Influence of sexism in audience reception towards female comedians
- Examples of successful female comedians navigating through stereotypes and gender biases
Finding Comfort in Discomfort and Dealing with Hecklers
- Discussion on reaching a mental state of apathy towards failure in stand-up comedy
- Importance of developing resilience towards audience opinions and reactions
- Insight into the necessity of never showing discomfort or shame as a comedian despite any circumstances
Challenges and Evolution in the Comedy Club Environment
- Reflection on audience perception and quick judgments towards comedians in initial moments of a set
- Handling of hecklers and the vital role of maintaining control and authority on stage
- Evolution of comedy club management and the shift in attitude towards managing disruptive behavior in recent years
Performing Stand-Up Comedy on HBO Max and the Value of Preparation
- Discussion about the experience of performing stand-up comedy on HBO Max without warming up
- Importance of preparation and working out acts before performing
- Realization of the significance of headlining a show and the effort required
Conspiracy Theories, Political Assassinations, and Mind Control Experiments
- Conversations around conspiracy theories related to political figures like Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe
- Discussions about the Kennedy family and speculations on their involvement in assassinations
- Exploration of CIA's involvement in mind control experiments using LSD and its connections to historical events
Revelations About Dallas Mob and President Kennedy's Assassination
- Discussion about Gabe Kaplan's connection to Jack Ruby and the Dallas mob
- Exploration of the book 'Betrayal and Dallas' linking the Dallas mob with the murder of President Kennedy
- Insights into the CIA's involvement in releasing Charles Manson to discredit the anti-war movement
Conspiracy Theories and the JFK Assassination
- Conversation about the Pruder film and various conspiracy theories surrounding JFK's assassination
- Mention of the book 'Best Evidence' by David Lifton and inconsistencies in the Warren Commission report
- Discussion on noted individuals like Richard Belzer and Dan Ackroyd who believe in conspiracy theories
Military Training and the Impact of Kubrick's Films
- Discussion of military training using examples from 'Full Metal Jacket'
- Reflection on the impact of Kubrick's films in portraying the transformation of individuals
- Anecdote about the depth of thought displayed by smart individuals like Noel McDonald
Norm Macdonald's Quirks and Behavior
- Insight into Norm Macdonald's quirky behavior and trolling tendencies
- Discussion on how Norm Macdonald's actions and humor can be unexpected and entertaining
- Anecdote about Norm Macdonald's habits regarding smoking and drinking
The Story of Michael Franchese, his Criminal Past, and Post-Prison Life
- Discussion on the origins of the Rico law and its utilization in criminal cases
- Insight into Michael Franchese's life as a former mobster and his post-prison activities
- Details about Franchese's illegal activities in the gasoline bootleg racket leading to his incarceration and subsequent release
Transformation of Times Square and the Effects of Chain Restaurants on NYC
- Conversational exchange about the revitalization of Times Square and its transformation from a seedy area to a tourist destination
- Reflections on the influx of chain restaurants in New York City and its impact on small businesses
- Mention of comedy clubs like Caroline's becoming tourist spots rather than local venues
Reflections on Comedy Clubs in New York City
- Transition of Caroline's comedy club from a New York-style venue to a tourist hotspot
- Recollections of iconic figures like Kinnison and Rodney Dangerfield performing at Caroline's
- Memories of performing at prom shows with Otto and George, highlighting the unique challenges and audience dynamics
The Eccentricities of Comedy Routines and Performances
- Anecdotes about unique routines, like Otto and George's act involving a Kennedy head
- Discussing unconventional acts, such as Duncan Trust's performance with Little Hobo
- Insight into a surreal experience at a satanic wedding where Duncan performs his routine
Reflections on Writing and Narcos
- Joe Rogan discusses his writing habits and discipline
- Conversation about the TV show Narcos and the portrayal of Pablo Escobar
- Reflections on the impact of historical figures like Pablo Escobar and their portrayal in media
Future Plans and Stand-Up Comedy
- Discussion on potential plans for opening a comedy club and rapid testing for events
- Expressed appreciation for stand-up comedy and looking forward to getting back on stage
- Brainstorming ideas for a new podcast-style comedy show featuring tough topics and guest comedians
Exploring the 50 States in 'Overstated'
- Joe Rogan introduces his new book 'Overstated', which is a roast of the 50 States.
- Discussion on the States he has and hasn't visited, mentioning Alaska, Hawaii, Dakotas, and Wyoming.
- Casual conversation about his limited visits to some States like New Mexico.
Impressions of Albuquerque and Reflections on Johnny Tapia
- Joe Rogan shares his positive experience in Albuquerque and stays at a nice hotel.
- Conversation about Albuquerque being part of Navajo country and references to Johnny Tapia with Virgin of Guadalupe tattoo.
- Expressing admiration for Johnny Tapia's legacy as a warrior and a skilled individual.