#2178 - Sam Morril
#2178 - Sam Morril
12Digest
This podcast delves into the world of comedy, exploring various aspects of the industry and the lives of comedians. The conversation begins with a discussion about a comedy club, its history, and the unique energy that attracts a dedicated audience. The speakers then share humorous anecdotes about their experiences, including a road trip with fellow comedian Joe Liss and a cancelled gig with Theo Von. The conversation shifts to more serious topics, including conspiracy theories surrounding the Trump shooting incident and the Kennedy assassination. The speakers also discuss the importance of exercise for both physical and mental well-being, challenging the misconception that intellectuals don't exercise. The podcast delves into the ethical implications of the Harvard LSD studies, raising questions about the use of potentially harmful substances and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The speakers also discuss the case of Frank Olsen, a CIA scientist who died under mysterious circumstances, and the potential for manipulation in secret programs. The conversation turns to the dangers of hyperbolic statements in politics and the impact of cancel culture on comedians. The speakers discuss the importance of mentorship in comedy, the challenges of comedian-owned comedy clubs, and the benefits and drawbacks of hazing in the industry. The podcast explores the ethical concerns surrounding DNA databases and the potential for their use in developing bio-weapons. The speakers also discuss the importance of supporting comedians, particularly those who are not as widely known or promoted. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the historical significance of baseball in American culture, the impact of World War II on baseball legends, and the decline of civility in American politics. The speakers also discuss the rise of Donald Trump and his ability to manipulate the media, the importance of humor in a divided world, and the changing landscape of Canada.
Outlines
Comedy Club and its History
The conversation begins with a discussion about a recent visit to a comedy club, highlighting its fun atmosphere and throwback vibe. The speakers discuss the club's history, mentioning notable performers like Willie Nelson and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Fate and the Comedy Club's Success
The conversation shifts to the topic of fate and how the comedy club's success feels almost destined. The speakers discuss the club's unique energy and how it attracts a dedicated audience.
Humorous Driving Anecdote
One of the speakers reveals their struggles with driving, leading to a humorous anecdote about a road trip with fellow comedian Joe Liss. The story highlights the speaker's driving challenges and Joe Liss's playful teasing.
Importance of Driving and Hypothetical Civil War
The conversation explores the importance of driving as a symbol of freedom and independence. The speakers discuss the potential challenges of a civil war and how it might impact their lives, particularly in terms of transportation.
Perseverance in Comedy and a Cancelled Gig
The conversation turns to a discussion about the importance of perseverance in comedy. One of the speakers shares a story about a gig with Theo Von that was cancelled due to wildfires in Edmonton. The story highlights the different personalities of the speakers and their reactions to the situation.
Conspiracy Theories and the Trump Shooting Incident
The conversation delves into conspiracy theories, specifically focusing on the shooting incident involving former President Trump. The speakers discuss the suspicious circumstances surrounding the event, including the lack of security and the alleged involvement of shadowy intelligence agencies.
The Kennedy Assassination and Conspiracy Theories
The conversation shifts to the Kennedy assassination, exploring the enduring conspiracy theories surrounding the event. The speakers discuss the suspicious circumstances, including the alleged involvement of Lee Harvey Oswald and the CIA.
Putin's Rise to Power and the Importance of Exercise
The conversation touches upon Putin's rise to power and the alleged dangers of speaking out against the Russian government. The speakers then transition to a discussion about the importance of exercise, particularly for older individuals.
Importance of Physical Activity and Mental Well-being
The conversation emphasizes the importance of physical activity for both physical and mental well-being. The speakers discuss how exercise can improve mood and overall health, particularly as people age.
Intellectuals and Exercise
The conversation explores the common misconception that intellectuals don't exercise. The speakers discuss the importance of balancing mental and physical health, highlighting the benefits of exercise for cognitive function and energy levels.
Challenges of Owning a Bar
The conversation concludes with a discussion about the challenges of owning a bar, particularly in terms of access to alcohol and the potential for overindulgence. The speakers share their experiences and observations about the bar scene.
The Harvard LSD Studies and Their Impact
The conversation delves into the Harvard LSD studies, specifically focusing on their impact on a particular individual who later became a professor at Berkeley. The studies involved humiliation as a means to observe the subject's response, highlighting the ethical concerns surrounding such experiments.
Unpredictable Nature of Human Behavior
The discussion explores the unpredictable nature of human behavior, particularly in the context of the Harvard LSD studies. The individual who underwent the studies later developed a strong aversion to technology, believing it would ultimately destroy humanity.
Potential for Psychopathy in LSD Studies
The conversation raises questions about the potential for psychopathy in individuals who participated in the Harvard LSD studies. The speakers wonder how many participants went on to develop psychopathic tendencies as a result of the experiments.
The Case of Frank Olsen and Project MK Ultra
The discussion shifts to the case of Frank Olsen, a CIA scientist who died in 1953 after falling from a hotel window. The official verdict was suicide, but questions remain about whether he was pushed. The speakers discuss the potential for the CIA to have been involved in Olsen's death.
Personal Encounter with Death
One of the speakers shares a personal experience of witnessing a woman jump from a window in Manhattan. The speaker describes the surreal nature of the event and how their mind initially processed it as a movie scene rather than reality.
Psychology of Narcissism and Manipulation
The conversation returns to the topic of narcissism, specifically focusing on the speaker's friend's mother who exhibited narcissistic traits. The speakers discuss how narcissists often lack the capacity for empathy and are unable to engage in meaningful conversations.
Potential for Manipulation in Secret Programs
The speakers speculate about the potential for manipulation in secret programs, suggesting that individuals with troubled pasts could be recruited and manipulated into carrying out acts of violence. They use the example of a hypothetical scenario involving an assassination attempt on the president.
Dangers of Hyperbolic Statements in Politics
The conversation shifts to the dangers of hyperbolic statements in politics, particularly in the context of the recent assassination attempt on President Trump. The speakers argue that such statements can contribute to a climate of fear and division.
Impact of Comparing Politicians to Hitler
The speakers discuss the impact of comparing politicians to Hitler, arguing that it has created a culture of hyperbole and made it difficult to have meaningful political discourse. They also criticize cable news for its role in perpetuating this culture.
Confusing State of the World
The speakers express their confusion about the current state of the world, citing numerous events such as the war in Ukraine, the conflict in Israel, and the assassination attempt on President Trump. They feel overwhelmed by the amount of information and the difficulty in discerning truth from fiction.
Ethics of DNA Databases and Bio-Weapons
The conversation turns to the ethics of DNA databases and the potential for their use in developing bio-weapons. The speakers discuss how private companies now own vast amounts of DNA data, raising concerns about privacy and the potential for misuse.
Accuracy of DNA Ancestry Tests
The speakers discuss the accuracy of DNA ancestry tests, questioning whether they provide reliable information about an individual's genetic background. They also express concerns about the potential for these tests to be used for malicious purposes.
Degradation of Privacy in the Digital Age
The conversation explores the degradation of privacy in the digital age, highlighting how people readily share their personal information online without fully understanding the implications. The speakers discuss the lack of legal and regulatory frameworks to protect this data.
Paradox of Cancel Culture and Content Creation
The speakers discuss the paradox of cancel culture in the context of podcasting. They acknowledge that they have said things that could be considered offensive but argue that the vast amount of content they produce makes it difficult to find anything truly damaging.
Importance of Veteran Leadership in Comedy
The conversation shifts to the importance of veteran leadership in comedy, highlighting how experienced comedians can mentor and guide younger comics. The speakers discuss the positive impact of this mentorship on the overall culture of comedy.
Legacy of Rodney Dangerfield and Young Comedian Specials
The speakers discuss the legacy of Rodney Dangerfield and his impact on the comedy world. They specifically focus on his \"Young Comedian Specials,\" which helped launch the careers of many successful comics.
Importance of Mentorship in Comedy
The speakers emphasize the importance of mentorship in comedy, comparing it to the role of veteran players in sports. They believe that mentorship is crucial for young comics to develop their skills and navigate the industry.
Importance of Comedian-Owned Comedy Clubs
The conversation focuses on the importance of comedian-owned comedy clubs, highlighting how they can create a more supportive and equitable environment for comics. The speakers discuss the unique structure of their own club, which prioritizes the well-being of the comedians.
Importance of Standing Up for Yourself
One of the speakers shares a story about being banned from a comedy club after making fun of the club's logo. The speaker discusses the importance of standing up for yourself and not being afraid to challenge authority, even if it means facing consequences.
Importance of Supporting Young Comics
The speakers discuss the importance of supporting young comics, particularly at their home clubs. They believe that it's important to create a culture of mentorship and support, rather than treating young comics as doormen or simply as a means to make money.
Challenges of Auditioning for Late Night
One of the speakers shares a story about auditioning for late night comedy shows, highlighting the competitive nature of the industry and the pressure to perform well. The speaker describes a particularly challenging audition where a fellow comic had a nervous breakdown on stage.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Hazing in Comedy
The speakers discuss the benefits and drawbacks of hazing in comedy, acknowledging that it can be a tough but necessary part of the process. They believe that hazing can weed out those who lack the resilience to succeed but also recognize the potential for it to be abusive.
Importance of Comedian-Owned Comedy Clubs
The conversation returns to the importance of comedian-owned comedy clubs, emphasizing how they can create a more equitable and supportive environment for comics. The speakers discuss the unique structure of their own club, which prioritizes the well-being of the comedians.
Importance of Touring for Comedians
The speakers discuss the importance of touring for comedians, arguing that it's essential for developing a strong act and understanding how different audiences respond to material. They believe that comics who don't tour often lack the depth and experience that comes from performing in diverse locations.
Uncertainties of a Comedy Career
The speakers discuss the uncertainties of a comedy career, comparing it to the world of professional sports. They acknowledge that there are no guarantees of success and that many factors can derail a comic's career, such as drug problems, relationship issues, or mental health challenges.
Creative Process of Stand-Up Comedy
The speakers discuss the creative process of stand-up comedy, highlighting the joy of being in the creative mode and the challenge of constantly coming up with new material. They believe that the struggle to find new jokes can be both rewarding and frustrating.
Evolution of Jerry Seinfeld's Comedy
The speakers discuss the evolution of Jerry Seinfeld's comedy, noting how he has become more outspoken about his views on \"woke\" culture. They find it interesting to see how a clean comic like Seinfeld responds to hecklers and the changing landscape of comedy.
Demands of Total Compliance in Today's Society
The speakers discuss the demands of total compliance in today's society, arguing that there is a growing pressure to conform to a specific set of beliefs and values. They believe that this pressure can stifle creativity and make it difficult to have open and honest conversations.
Separating the Artist from the Person
The speakers discuss the importance of separating the artist from the person, particularly in the context of controversial figures like Bill Cosby or Woody Allen. They believe that it's possible to appreciate an artist's work while acknowledging their flaws and transgressions.
Hypocrisy of Male Feminists
The speakers discuss the hypocrisy of male feminists, arguing that they often use their feminist beliefs as a means to manipulate women. They believe that these men are often the most manipulative and creepy individuals.
Dangers of Cancel Culture and the Importance of Context
One of the speakers shares a story about being targeted by \"fake feminists\" for a rape joke he told in 2013. He argues that the joke was taken out of context and that the people who attacked him were more interested in scoring points than in promoting genuine social justice.
Hypocrisy of Cancel Culture and the Right to Grow
The speakers discuss the hypocrisy of cancel culture, arguing that people are allowed to change and grow but that those who have been canceled are often held accountable for past mistakes forever. They believe that this lack of forgiveness is absurd and counterproductive.
Disingenuous Nature of Cancel Culture
The speakers discuss the disingenuous nature of cancel culture, arguing that those who engage in it often lack compassion and are only interested in silencing those who disagree with them. They believe that this approach is ultimately harmful and counterproductive.
Unfairness of Cancel Culture
The speakers discuss the unfairness of cancel culture, highlighting how it can be used to target individuals disproportionately. They cite the example of Shane Gillis, who was canceled for jokes he made years ago, and argue that the punishment was far too severe.
Double Standard of Cancel Culture
The speakers discuss the double standard of cancel culture, noting how it is often used to target individuals on the left while those on the right are often given a pass for similar behavior. They believe that this double standard is hypocritical and undermines the principles of fairness and equality.
Dangers of Signaling to Followers
The speakers discuss the dangers of signaling to followers, particularly in the context of political discourse. They argue that individuals who make inflammatory statements to appease their base often do not fully understand the consequences of their words.
Hate Speech and the Definition of "Too Soon"
The conversation starts with a discussion about hate speech and the concept of \"too soon\" for jokes. The speakers discuss a recent joke that bombed and the backlash it received, leading to the cancellation of a tour.
Appeal of Texas and the Downfall of LA
The conversation shifts to the speakers' experiences in Los Angeles and their reasons for moving to Texas. They discuss the downsides of LA, including the high population density, traffic, and the constant threat of natural disasters.
Bombing Set and the Impact of the Malibu Fires
One of the speakers recounts a particularly bad bombing experience at a comedy gig in New Jersey. The speaker attributes the bombing to the emotional impact of watching a news report about the Malibu fires, which left him feeling sad and unable to muster humor.
Importance of Context in Comedy and the Dangers of Benefits
The speakers discuss the importance of context in comedy, particularly when performing at benefits. One speaker shares a story about bombing a benefit for a man who died from drinking on muscle relaxers, highlighting the importance of being aware of the event's purpose.
Intoxicating Power of Cable News and the Importance of Disrupting
The conversation turns to the power dynamics of cable news and the tendency of hosts to dismiss or belittle comedians who challenge their views. The speakers discuss the importance of disrupting these narratives and the comedic value of pushing boundaries.
Bubble of Cable News and the Appeal of Disruption
The speakers continue to discuss the insular nature of cable news and the lack of diverse perspectives represented on these shows. They express a desire to disrupt these narratives and challenge the status quo.
Norm Macdonald's Legacy and the Importance of Authenticity
The conversation shifts to a discussion about Norm Macdonald's comedic legacy and the importance of authenticity in comedy. The speakers share anecdotes about their interactions with Macdonald and his unique approach to humor.
Unrecognized Brilliance of Patrice O'Neal and Damon Wayans
The speakers discuss the comedic brilliance of Patrice O'Neal and Damon Wayans, both of whom they believe were underappreciated during their lifetimes. They highlight their unique styles and the impact they had on the comedy world.
Allure of Sitcoms and the Importance of Finding Your Passion
The conversation concludes with a discussion about the allure of sitcoms and the importance of finding a job that you genuinely enjoy. The speakers share their experiences with sitcoms and the challenges of balancing creative fulfillment with financial stability.
Baseball and American Culture
The conversation starts with a discussion about baseball and its historical significance in American culture. The speakers delve into the era of baseball dominated by figures like Joe DiMaggio and Lou Gehrig, highlighting the game's connection to immigration and its role as a symbol of American identity.
The Kennedy's and Marilyn Monroe
The conversation shifts to the Kennedy family and their connection to Marilyn Monroe. The speakers discuss the rumors surrounding Monroe's relationship with Robert F. Kennedy and the impact of her death on the family.
Impact of War on Baseball Legends
The speakers discuss the impact of World War II on baseball legends like Ted Williams and Joe DiMaggio. They highlight the sacrifices these athletes made to serve their country and the lasting effects of their wartime experiences.
Legacy of George W. Bush
The conversation turns to George W. Bush and his legacy as president. The speakers discuss the controversial decisions he made, particularly the Iraq War, and the emotional toll these decisions may have taken on him.
Decline of Civility in Politics
The speakers lament the decline of civility in American politics, contrasting the current political climate with the more respectful debates of the past. They discuss the role of social media in exacerbating political divisions and the need for a return to more civil discourse.
Rise of Trump and the Media
The conversation focuses on the rise of Donald Trump and his ability to manipulate the media. The speakers discuss how Trump's unconventional style and use of soundbites captivated the public and how the media inadvertently amplified his message.
Power of Comedy and Social Commentary
The speakers discuss the power of comedy as a form of social commentary. They analyze Trump's use of humor and his ability to connect with audiences through his comedic timing and delivery.
Fear of World War III
The conversation shifts to the current geopolitical climate and the fear of World War III. The speakers discuss the potential for conflict and the role of the current administration in escalating tensions.
Erosion of Trust in Media
The speakers discuss the erosion of trust in traditional media outlets, citing the \"RussiaGate\" scandal as a turning point. They argue that the media's willingness to push a narrative without sufficient evidence has damaged its credibility.
Impact of Constant News
The speakers discuss the impact of constant news coverage on society. They argue that the 24/7 news cycle creates a sense of fear and anxiety, distorting our perception of reality and contributing to political polarization.
Importance of Humor in a Divided World
The speakers discuss the importance of humor in a divided world. They argue that comedy can provide a much-needed escape from the negativity and help us to see the world with a more balanced perspective.
Need for Connection Beyond Politics
The speakers discuss the need for connection beyond political affiliations. They argue that we should strive to find common ground with others based on shared interests and experiences rather than focusing solely on our political beliefs.
Trauma of the Trump Presidency
The speakers discuss the emotional toll of the Trump presidency. They express their feelings of anxiety and fear during his time in office and their hope that the current administration will not repeat the mistakes of the past.
Changing Landscape of Canada
The conversation turns to Canada and its changing political landscape. The speakers discuss their concerns about the erosion of free speech and the increasing influence of government censorship.
Importance of Free Speech
The speakers discuss the importance of free speech and the dangers of censorship. They highlight the role of social media platforms in suppressing dissenting voices and the need for a more open and tolerant online environment.
Impact of Algorithms on Comedy
The speakers discuss the impact of algorithms on the art of comedy. They express their concerns about the pressure on comedians to create content that conforms to the demands of social media platforms and the potential for this to stifle creativity.
Evolution of Comedy
The speakers discuss the evolution of comedy and the importance of experience in developing a unique voice. They argue that comedians often hit their stride later in life after they have accumulated a wealth of life experiences.
Therapeutic Power of Comedy
The speakers discuss the therapeutic power of comedy. They share their personal experiences with stand-up comedy and how it has helped them to cope with difficult times and find joy in the face of adversity.
Importance of Pure Comedy
The speakers discuss the importance of pure comedy, free from political agendas or social commentary. They highlight the work of comedians like Dave Attell, who focus on silly jokes and observational humor, and the ability of this type of comedy to transport audiences back to their childhood.
Importance of Supporting Comedians
The speakers discuss the importance of supporting comedians, particularly those who are not as widely known or promoted. They emphasize the need to spread the word about talented comedians and to create a more supportive environment for the art form.
Work Ethic of a Comedian
The speakers discuss the work ethic of a comedian, highlighting the dedication and commitment required to succeed in the field. They share anecdotes about Dave Attell's meticulous approach to writing and performing, emphasizing his constant pursuit of new material and his willingness to put in the hours to hone his craft.
Importance of Authenticity
The speakers discuss the importance of authenticity in comedy. They share anecdotes about Dave Attell's aversion to social media and his preference for a simpler way of life, highlighting his commitment to staying true to himself and his craft.
Impact of Cancellation Culture
The speakers discuss the impact of cancellation culture on comedians. They acknowledge the potential for comedians to be negatively affected by public backlash and the need for them to be mindful of their words and actions.
Promoting Samarel's Work
The conversation concludes with the speakers promoting Samarel's work, including his new special \"Samurai\" and his website punchup.live/samarel. They encourage listeners to check out his content and to support his career.
Keywords
Comedy Cellar
A renowned comedy club located in Greenwich Village, New York City, known for its intimate setting and its history of hosting legendary comedians.
Willie Nelson
A legendary American singer-songwriter, known for his distinctive voice, country music hits, and his iconic outlaw image.
Stevie Ray Vaughan
An influential American blues guitarist, known for his electrifying performances and his mastery of the electric guitar.
Joe Liss
A stand-up comedian known for his observational humor and his ability to connect with audiences.
Theo Von
A popular American stand-up comedian known for his dark humor, storytelling abilities, and his Southern charm.
Edmonton
The capital city of Alberta, Canada, known for its vibrant arts scene, its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, and its annual Fringe Festival.
Trump Shooting Incident
A controversial incident in which a man allegedly fired shots at former President Trump during a rally in Ohio. The event sparked widespread debate about security measures and conspiracy theories.
Kennedy Assassination
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963, which remains a subject of intense historical and political debate.
Lee Harvey Oswald
The man accused of assassinating President John F. Kennedy, whose actions and motives continue to be debated by historians and conspiracy theorists.
Q&A
What are some of the notable performers who have played at the comedy club discussed in the podcast?
The comedy club has a rich history of hosting legendary performers, including Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and various punk rock bands.
What is the speaker's perspective on the success of the comedy club?
The speaker believes that the club's success feels almost destined, attributing it to the unique energy of the building and the dedicated audience it attracts.
What is the humorous anecdote about the speaker's driving skills?
The speaker recounts a road trip with fellow comedian Joe Liss where they were responsible for splitting the driving. The speaker's driving challenges led to a humorous situation where Joe Liss playfully teased them about their abilities.
What are the speakers' thoughts on the potential impact of a civil war on their lives?
The speakers discuss the potential challenges of a civil war, particularly in terms of transportation. They acknowledge the importance of driving as a symbol of freedom and independence and express concern about the potential loss of access to transportation services.
What is the story about the cancelled gig with Theo Von?
The speaker shares a story about a gig with Theo Von that was cancelled due to wildfires in Edmonton. The story highlights the different personalities of the speakers and their reactions to the situation, with one speaker being more concerned about the potential impact of the wildfires while the other remains more relaxed.
What are the speakers' perspectives on the Trump shooting incident?
The speakers discuss the suspicious circumstances surrounding the shooting incident involving former President Trump, including the lack of security and the alleged involvement of shadowy intelligence agencies. They express skepticism about the official narrative and raise questions about the potential for a conspiracy.
What are the speakers' thoughts on the Kennedy assassination?
The speakers explore the enduring conspiracy theories surrounding the Kennedy assassination, discussing the suspicious circumstances, including the alleged involvement of Lee Harvey Oswald and the CIA. They express skepticism about the official narrative and believe that there may be more to the story than what is publicly known.
What is the conversation about Putin's rise to power?
The speakers discuss Putin's rise to power and the alleged dangers of speaking out against the Russian government. They mention a book written by a Russian journalist who is facing potential imprisonment for her criticism of the government.
What is the conversation about the importance of exercise?
The speakers emphasize the importance of physical activity for both physical and mental well-being, particularly as people age. They discuss how exercise can improve mood, energy levels, and overall health.
Show Notes
Sam Morril is a stand-up comic, writer, and actor. He's the co-host of the "We Might Be Drunk" podcast with Mark Normand. Catch his new special, "You've Changed" on Prime Video.Â
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Table of contents
United States
OMG! Kids In The Hall! my personal favorite is "Like A Dove". It's fuckin ICONIC! "You're drunk cuz you're stupid and you're stupid cuz you're drunk"! We can all relate to something like that! prove me wrong, I beg you! 😜🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
am I the only one who can't play Joe Rogan podcast? I'm from iran