#1583 - John Terzian & Craig Susser

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Challenges Faced by Restaurant Industry During the Pandemic

  • Discussion about the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry with insights from two restaurant owners, John Turzian and Craig Susser
  • Mention of the struggles faced by employees in the restaurant industry due to shutdowns and its economic and social effects
  • Criticism towards the lack of communication from government officials and the perceived unfair treatment of restaurants compared to other businesses
• 00:05:32

  Political and Social Issues Surrounding Pandemic Response

  • Exploration of the political implications of pandemic response from local government officials like Newsom and Garcetti
  • Discussion on the impact of shutdowns on homelessness and the conflicting views on the effectiveness of measures taken
  • Critique of the arbitrary distinctions made between different industries in terms of restrictions and the lack of evidence supporting certain decisions
• 00:10:11

  Community Response to Government Policies and Lack of Consultation

  • Discussion on the rising hospitalizations and infections contrasted with decreasing death rates
  • Lamentation about the lack of consultation with industry professionals in forming policies
  • Critique of arbitrary decisions such as early curfews without industry consultation
• 00:11:19

  Impact on Independent Restaurants and Government Overreach

  • Concerns raised about the impact of government decisions on independent restaurants
  • Observations on the lack of representation for independent restaurant owners
  • Criticism of government policies impeding the survival of independent businesses and the fear of long-term consequences
• 00:20:33

  Government Policies and Enforcement Issues Amid COVID-19 Restrictions

  • Discussion on the challenges of implementing selective closures and restrictions during the pandemic
  • Observations on the lack of consistency in decision-making by authorities
  • Concerns about the impact of restrictions on businesses and enforcement challenges faced by restaurant owners
• 00:21:35

  Social Implications and Emotional Toll of Pandemic Measures on Communities

  • Reflection on the social nature of humans and the necessity of interpersonal connections
  • Insight into the emotional strain caused by isolation and economic uncertainties
  • Comparison of the communal experience in live events like comedy clubs versus solitary living during the pandemic
• 00:30:09

  Impact on Businesses and Lack of Leadership

  • Discussion on the detrimental effects on small businesses like restaurants, bars, and comedy clubs
  • Criticism of the unwillingness to course correct and find a middle ground
  • Observations on the failure of leadership and the need for emphasis on improving public health
• 00:32:54

  Political Hypocrisy and Lack of Accountability

  • Exposure of inconsistencies in COVID-19 regulations and enforcement, highlighting political figures' actions
  • Critique on lack of consequences for leaders' decisions and their disconnect from the impact on the general public
  • Reflection on the essential workers bearing the brunt of the consequences amid political inactions
• 00:39:19

  Abuse of Power and Impact on Industries

  • Discussion on the abuse of power by local authorities and its impact on various industries
  • Insight into poor decision-making by a small group leading to significant consequences
  • Exploration of the lack of accountability and consequences for those in power
• 00:40:24

  Negative Effects on Restaurants and Community

  • Analysis of the devastating financial impact on restaurants due to shutdowns
  • Consideration of the broader consequences on mental health, drug addiction, and community well-being
  • Highlighting the importance of social gatherings and dining out as a significant part of people's lives
• 00:48:58

  Personal Anecdotes and Connection with Dice

  • Joe Rogan shares a personal story about his connection with Dice and getting a role in a movie
  • Story about Joe's father and a remarkable coincidence involving a woman named Jackie
  • Reflection on the era of comedy in the late 80s and early 90s and a story about Sam Kenison's impact
• 00:55:00

  Impact on Restaurants and Discussion on COVID-19 Restrictions

  • Discussion about the impact of COVID-19 on restaurants and efforts to keep businesses afloat
  • Concerns about the closure of a significant percentage of restaurants and uncertainty about their return
  • Conversation about different states' approaches to COVID-19 restrictions such as comparing Florida's strategy with California's
• 00:58:34

  Dining and Business Challenges During the Pandemic

  • Discussion about challenges faced by the restaurant industry during the pandemic
  • Experience of receiving PPP funds to keep the business afloat and retain employees
  • Reflection on the significant capital investment required to reopen and sustain a restaurant
• 01:00:21

  Government Restrictions and Uncertainties in the Hospitality Sector

  • Conversation about the impact of increased COVID-19 restrictions on businesses
  • Speculation on government's approach to restrictions and its effectiveness
  • Concerns about the future and resilience needed for businesses to survive
• 01:08:06

  Impacts of Social Distancing on Friendships and Social Interactions

  • Discussion on the effects of social distancing on social psychology and relationships
  • Exploration of how differing levels of comfort with social interactions can affect friendships and family dynamics
  • Concerns over division among friends and family due to varying comfort levels with social interactions
• 01:11:30

  Advocacy for Supporting Local Businesses and Political Engagement

  • Encouragement to support local restaurants and engage with local politicians for change
  • Call to shift mindset towards intelligent approaches in navigating pandemic restrictions
  • Emphasis on the importance of voicing opinions to local and national representatives for a more balanced decision-making process
• 01:18:04

  COVID-19 Impact on Businesses and Political Handling

  • Discussion about people moving to other states like Florida, Texas, or Arizona due to dissatisfaction with how COVID-19 is being handled in their current state
  • Concerns raised about the impact of shutdowns on businesses, particularly in the restaurant industry, and the lack of support for employees
  • Criticism of how Democrat-run states are handling the situation and the challenges faced by businesses in staying afloat
• 01:20:37

  Adapting Business Strategies During the Pandemic

  • Predictions on the possible timeline for the resumption of outdoor dining and the role of vaccines in reopening businesses
  • Diversification of businesses and discussion on the success of vegan products, especially vegan ice cream, during the pandemic
  • Emphasis on being resourceful, adapting to changing circumstances, and supporting restaurant workers during challenging times
• 01:29:28

  Impact on Restaurant Industry and Community Support

  • Discussion about the backlash faced by restaurants and media due to closures
  • Highlighting the challenges faced by the restaurant industry and the impact on various individuals like employees, suppliers, and services
  • Efforts made by individuals and businesses to support frontline workers and the community during the pandemic
• 01:34:47

  Effects on Entertainment Industry and Performers

  • Insights into how the pandemic has affected comedians and performers in the entertainment industry
  • Exploration of the emotional and professional impact on comics and the overall entertainment scene
  • Discussion on the shift towards virtual events and challenges faced by performers and audiences in adapting to virtual shows
• 01:38:23

  Government Decisions Impacting Communities and Businesses

  • Discussion on the negative effects of government decisions on communities, livelihoods, and businesses
  • Criticism of how some officials have handled the situation without considering the repercussions on businesses
  • Suggestion for a more targeted approach towards enforcing regulations to support businesses
• 01:41:36

  Adapting Business Strategies During the Pandemic

  • Exploration of innovative business strategies adopted during the pandemic such as COVID testing ventures
  • Call for more flexible regulations to enable businesses to operate with rapid testing
  • Critique of government incompetence and the need for a shift towards more business-friendly policies
• 01:47:59

  Community Support and Creativity Amid Challenges

  • Discussion on the importance of community support, especially in businesses like restaurants and comedy clubs
  • Reflection on the challenges faced by individuals starting out in their careers during the pandemic
  • Concern over the lack of opportunities for young people to learn and grow in their respective fields
• 01:51:47

  Unity and Hope for the Future

  • Expressing gratitude for frontline workers and families supporting each other during tough times
  • Call for collective action and accountability towards government decisions affecting businesses and communities
  • Optimism for a brighter future and appreciation for the resilience acquired from facing hardships