Neal Brennan
👤 PersonPodcast Appearances
hi everybody it's neil brennan and this is the blocks podcast you clicked on it so i didn't need to do that um my guest today is a great comedian who i've been aware of a long time huge comic hbo specials apparently the inspiration for elaine and seinfeld who
hi everybody it's neil brennan and this is the blocks podcast you clicked on it so i didn't need to do that um my guest today is a great comedian who i've been aware of a long time huge comic hbo specials apparently the inspiration for elaine and seinfeld who
Totally agree. When you say, you talk about bulletproof. What does bulletproof mean the way you say that? Meaning like your act is better or your act is better so your embodied presentation is better?
Totally agree. When you say, you talk about bulletproof. What does bulletproof mean the way you say that? Meaning like your act is better or your act is better so your embodied presentation is better?
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You had to sleep with him. Yeah, no choice.
You had to sleep with him. Yeah, no choice.
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See website for details and important safety information. HIMS dot com slash N-E-A-L. All right. Guys, March Madness is a sacred time of yelling at the TV while recovering from elective surgery. If you, like thousands of other men, are overlapping a vasectomy recovery with nonstop basketball, get a bidet. This is a very specific ad. Okay. This is maybe my longest endorsement.
See website for details and important safety information. HIMS dot com slash N-E-A-L. All right. Guys, March Madness is a sacred time of yelling at the TV while recovering from elective surgery. If you, like thousands of other men, are overlapping a vasectomy recovery with nonstop basketball, get a bidet. This is a very specific ad. Okay. This is maybe my longest endorsement.
This was on the street, guys. Before I had any podcast to endorse anything or read ads about, I've been an aficionado of the bidet game. I have three tushies now. I installed it myself. It's very easy. It's very effective. It's improved my butt. How about that? My whole butt is better because of the tushy.
This was on the street, guys. Before I had any podcast to endorse anything or read ads about, I've been an aficionado of the bidet game. I have three tushies now. I installed it myself. It's very easy. It's very effective. It's improved my butt. How about that? My whole butt is better because of the tushy.
And my girlfriend's about, in fact, her father's saying he's going to install it for her, make him feel useful. You know what I mean? It's hard enough that it seems like you did something, but it's easy enough that you'll know you didn't do anything. But you can still get installing something like a man.
And my girlfriend's about, in fact, her father's saying he's going to install it for her, make him feel useful. You know what I mean? It's hard enough that it seems like you did something, but it's easy enough that you'll know you didn't do anything. But you can still get installing something like a man.
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You don't have to, but you're going to want to. But you got to find me. Okay, and then the other thing I would say is, or I wanted to ask is... Is there a way to be bulletproof behind the scenes? Do you know what I mean?
You don't have to, but you're going to want to. But you got to find me. Okay, and then the other thing I would say is, or I wanted to ask is... Is there a way to be bulletproof behind the scenes? Do you know what I mean?
Like, do you think that you were doing something differently than other people that in Greece made people feel like they, whatever sexist behavior men participated in, they didn't do it to you. Did you ever sense why?
Like, do you think that you were doing something differently than other people that in Greece made people feel like they, whatever sexist behavior men participated in, they didn't do it to you. Did you ever sense why?
Yeah, or like maybe they did do it to other people, but not you. Or was there anything that you were, is it again that sort of bulletproof thing?
Yeah, or like maybe they did do it to other people, but not you. Or was there anything that you were, is it again that sort of bulletproof thing?
But what I was saying, was there a thing that, is there a backstage version of that? I'm not sure what you mean. Was there ever a point where you were treated one way, started carrying yourself differently, and were treated a different way?
But what I was saying, was there a thing that, is there a backstage version of that? I'm not sure what you mean. Was there ever a point where you were treated one way, started carrying yourself differently, and were treated a different way?
Yeah, I think time. I just have a different experience with, like, people thought I was Dave's buddy and then Chappelle's buddy and then his plus one and, you know, you're not good, you're COVID, all that stuff. And then finally they were like, oh, okay. And it took, like, eight years.
Yeah, I think time. I just have a different experience with, like, people thought I was Dave's buddy and then Chappelle's buddy and then his plus one and, you know, you're not good, you're COVID, all that stuff. And then finally they were like, oh, okay. And it took, like, eight years.
In my... Or... in my imagination. Maybe they never thought that, but that's what I thought they thought, and really that's all that matters. So, all right, your blocks I'm excited about. So your first block is having a kid and the challenges around that. Tell me about it.
In my... Or... in my imagination. Maybe they never thought that, but that's what I thought they thought, and really that's all that matters. So, all right, your blocks I'm excited about. So your first block is having a kid and the challenges around that. Tell me about it.
You know, even- Super straight, by the way. Super straight. She was as straight as they, I mean, she- Really, yeah.
You know, even- Super straight, by the way. Super straight. She was as straight as they, I mean, she- Really, yeah.
If you see those guys, you see Leno and you see... Richard, did it seem like, I maybe could do that? Or are you just like, I'm around that funny, or I'd like to try to be that funny?
If you see those guys, you see Leno and you see... Richard, did it seem like, I maybe could do that? Or are you just like, I'm around that funny, or I'd like to try to be that funny?
At the risk of being impolite, unpack it. What parts of sex with a woman were you interested in? Was it curiosity or was it like a craving? Was it the way you imagine a woman would be in bed? Was it, I wish the person I was in bed with was more like me? What was it?
At the risk of being impolite, unpack it. What parts of sex with a woman were you interested in? Was it curiosity or was it like a craving? Was it the way you imagine a woman would be in bed? Was it, I wish the person I was in bed with was more like me? What was it?
Of course. We all know that. You don't have to say that.
Of course. We all know that. You don't have to say that.
Did you have a type? Did you think you had a type? Somebody pretty. Okay, so pretty, and just under the banner of pretty. Yes. It could mean, you didn't care about height, you didn't care about hair color, skin color, just like, are you pretty?
Did you have a type? Did you think you had a type? Somebody pretty. Okay, so pretty, and just under the banner of pretty. Yes. It could mean, you didn't care about height, you didn't care about hair color, skin color, just like, are you pretty?
Okay, so you did have, you wanted in shape. There you go, now we're talking.
Okay, so you did have, you wanted in shape. There you go, now we're talking.
So she was a real lesbian about it.
So she was a real lesbian about it.
Yes. So then... Not some bridge and tunnel bullshit. No. Some weekend warrior. Like, are you doing... Seven nights a week. Yeah. The same advice Stephen Wright gave you. If you're going to be a lesbian, you got to do it every night.
Yes. So then... Not some bridge and tunnel bullshit. No. Some weekend warrior. Like, are you doing... Seven nights a week. Yeah. The same advice Stephen Wright gave you. If you're going to be a lesbian, you got to do it every night.
You had to burn your straight, your heterosexuality card?
You had to burn your straight, your heterosexuality card?
By the way, no one knows if they're good. Anyone who says they're good.
By the way, no one knows if they're good. Anyone who says they're good.
No, but you also know that everyone thinks they're good. Okay. Had you had to coax anyone before?
No, but you also know that everyone thinks they're good. Okay. Had you had to coax anyone before?
It's fail-safe coming from a woman.
It's fail-safe coming from a woman.
I think so. I think from a guy. I think guys hit or miss. Because I think that just women are rightly defensive. And did it deliver?
I think so. I think from a guy. I think guys hit or miss. Because I think that just women are rightly defensive. And did it deliver?
Did you, okay. So did you end up in a relationship with her?
Did you, okay. So did you end up in a relationship with her?
Um, okay. So I was going to say, was the tone of the connection, had you ever felt anything in the neighborhood with a guy?
Um, okay. So I was going to say, was the tone of the connection, had you ever felt anything in the neighborhood with a guy?
So that was male connection in your experience was limited? Or decent but like this is twice whatever that was.
So that was male connection in your experience was limited? Or decent but like this is twice whatever that was.
Yeah. And do you think, this is a very broad question, but when I said the thing about coming to your senses, you know what I mean. Sometimes I think men and women are poorly suited for each other. I don't know who men should be with. But if one of the parties wants to get you know, very, very, very deeply connected. Yeah. And another party is like, well, this is good. Yeah.
Yeah. And do you think, this is a very broad question, but when I said the thing about coming to your senses, you know what I mean. Sometimes I think men and women are poorly suited for each other. I don't know who men should be with. But if one of the parties wants to get you know, very, very, very deeply connected. Yeah. And another party is like, well, this is good. Yeah.
It seems to set up a tension that you never stop negotiating.
It seems to set up a tension that you never stop negotiating.
Did you... Is that... Do you think there's something to what I'm saying?
Did you... Is that... Do you think there's something to what I'm saying?
Do you, I don't want to say regret. Do you, did you think like, I wish I'd started this sooner?
Do you, I don't want to say regret. Do you, did you think like, I wish I'd started this sooner?
How would you categorize it? Would you say it was like, my guess is, and correct me, it was what it's actually like to be a woman?
How would you categorize it? Would you say it was like, my guess is, and correct me, it was what it's actually like to be a woman?
So you weren't thwarting some deep desire. You weren't like, no, I don't want to be lesbian. It'll be inconvenient.
So you weren't thwarting some deep desire. You weren't like, no, I don't want to be lesbian. It'll be inconvenient.
Thank you. Thank you, Guy. That was also there. If it weren't for him, that heroic man.
Thank you. Thank you, Guy. That was also there. If it weren't for him, that heroic man.
He's showing such sacrifice. Okay. So which brings us to the baby challenge.
He's showing such sacrifice. Okay. So which brings us to the baby challenge.
Nothing but affection. The affection's dripping off that.
Nothing but affection. The affection's dripping off that.
Oh, fuck. I might end this podcast. Right now. Just because of that.
Oh, fuck. I might end this podcast. Right now. Just because of that.
But pretty much that was how they did it back then.
But pretty much that was how they did it back then.
And then they would yell your name.
And then they would yell your name.
Yeah. In my house, door open, door closed, everyone's angry.
Yeah. In my house, door open, door closed, everyone's angry.
Pretty great. Anyhow, so you guys, so you... Did you feel like, I've had that experience where I'm like, oh, this is completely, did you have to negotiate with her? Do you think there's value to the way you were raised?
Pretty great. Anyhow, so you guys, so you... Did you feel like, I've had that experience where I'm like, oh, this is completely, did you have to negotiate with her? Do you think there's value to the way you were raised?
Yeah, great. You look at Lori like, what the hell did you do?
Yeah, great. You look at Lori like, what the hell did you do?
Just expressing my experience. And I don't care if you had it or not.
Just expressing my experience. And I don't care if you had it or not.
Yeah, like you had nothing to do with it. Yeah. Yeah.
Yeah, like you had nothing to do with it. Yeah. Yeah.
We'll talk about that, maybe. You have a lot of money coming your way. She's here. She's great. Are you touring?
We'll talk about that, maybe. You have a lot of money coming your way. She's here. She's great. Are you touring?
So it was her parenting style was the dominant style. Yes.
So it was her parenting style was the dominant style. Yes.
But to the point that we were both sort of hinting at, which is like, there's something to, I mean, with all the sort of new gentle parenting or whatever they want to call it, you want to go like, this is not proven. This is not proven. Just so we're clear, we don't know how all these people turn out.
But to the point that we were both sort of hinting at, which is like, there's something to, I mean, with all the sort of new gentle parenting or whatever they want to call it, you want to go like, this is not proven. This is not proven. Just so we're clear, we don't know how all these people turn out.
And are there moments where that flares up like, okay, you know, it's the old Jay Leno joke about his cat was finicky about eating. And the joke was like, well, lock him in the closet for three days. Let's see how finicky he is. But that sort of brutality or just like force is a pretty – Helpful tools sometimes.
And are there moments where that flares up like, okay, you know, it's the old Jay Leno joke about his cat was finicky about eating. And the joke was like, well, lock him in the closet for three days. Let's see how finicky he is. But that sort of brutality or just like force is a pretty – Helpful tools sometimes.
And do you think, do you ever say to Carol, like, you know, this is a way to get these grades up? I mean, I know. I just think I don't know. Like I because my girlfriend has a four year old and I'm involved. Yeah. It's like I do kind of sit back and be like, I was not raised correctly. I don't think. But yeah, there are there were some things that I think have helped me long term.
And do you think, do you ever say to Carol, like, you know, this is a way to get these grades up? I mean, I know. I just think I don't know. Like I because my girlfriend has a four year old and I'm involved. Yeah. It's like I do kind of sit back and be like, I was not raised correctly. I don't think. But yeah, there are there were some things that I think have helped me long term.
And like you can you add. Did you advocate for it?
And like you can you add. Did you advocate for it?
Okay, and then you and Paul go down, or he takes you, he's been going.
Okay, and then you and Paul go down, or he takes you, he's been going.
Yeah, where you go, it's a yearbook.
Yeah, where you go, it's a yearbook.
Yes, it's a yearbook. And also like, this isn't emblematic of how much we love him. It's just like, could you, is he the kind of kid you could say like, hey man, with this.
Yes, it's a yearbook. And also like, this isn't emblematic of how much we love him. It's just like, could you, is he the kind of kid you could say like, hey man, with this.
I think the first place to get BOs, kind of the only place, I mean, other than like my creases, but the only place I really get it's my pits. And that Mando, the minute I started using Mando, knocked it out. And then when I stopped, when I ran out, then they came back. So I'm back on my Mandos. It just works for my pH. It's a whole body deodorant and it's safe to use anywhere on your body.
I think the first place to get BOs, kind of the only place, I mean, other than like my creases, but the only place I really get it's my pits. And that Mando, the minute I started using Mando, knocked it out. And then when I stopped, when I ran out, then they came back. So I'm back on my Mandos. It just works for my pH. It's a whole body deodorant and it's safe to use anywhere on your body.
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I love how you still remember what order it was.
I love how you still remember what order it was.
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That's S-H-O-P-M-A-N-D-O.com. Please support our show and tell them we sent you. Smell fresher, stay drier. and boost your confidence from head to toe inside and out with Mando. This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. I think that's appropriate, wouldn't you? We're all living these isolated lives. We're more into self-optimization, and so we have less and less community.
That's S-H-O-P-M-A-N-D-O.com. Please support our show and tell them we sent you. Smell fresher, stay drier. and boost your confidence from head to toe inside and out with Mando. This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. I think that's appropriate, wouldn't you? We're all living these isolated lives. We're more into self-optimization, and so we have less and less community.
And in some ways, a therapist can be a part of your community. They're not going to tell you what to do. They're not going to be like a leader for you, but they're going to be a valuable member of the community who will ask the right questions and help you to better conclusions about yourself. It's been my experience. I'm back in therapy, guys. Congratulations, you win. I'm back in therapy.
And in some ways, a therapist can be a part of your community. They're not going to tell you what to do. They're not going to be like a leader for you, but they're going to be a valuable member of the community who will ask the right questions and help you to better conclusions about yourself. It's been my experience. I'm back in therapy, guys. Congratulations, you win. I'm back in therapy.
We're talking about my defensiveness a lot. We're talking about how I can get to empathy quicker. We're not talking about my trauma. We're not talking about my problems, really. I don't have any problems. I just have character flaws and habits emotionally that I'm kind of weirdly proud of because they've served me, but they don't serve me no more.
We're talking about my defensiveness a lot. We're talking about how I can get to empathy quicker. We're not talking about my trauma. We're not talking about my problems, really. I don't have any problems. I just have character flaws and habits emotionally that I'm kind of weirdly proud of because they've served me, but they don't serve me no more.
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BetterHelp is fully online, making therapy affordable and convenient, serving over 5 million people worldwide. You can access a diverse network of more than 30,000 credentialed therapists with a wide range of specialties, easily switch therapists anytime at no extra cost. Here's the call to action. Build your support system with BetterHelp. Visit betterhelp.com. Dot com slash any A.L.
today to get 10 percent off your first month. That's B.E.T.T.E.R.H.E.L.P. Dot com slash and E.A.L. 10 percent off your first month. Better help. Better help. Better help. Better help. You must be doing it because they keep advertising. So I'm glad. I hope you feel better. Good luck with the empathy. OK, so what have you been? You've been working a lot. Does Lori work?
today to get 10 percent off your first month. That's B.E.T.T.E.R.H.E.L.P. Dot com slash and E.A.L. 10 percent off your first month. Better help. Better help. Better help. Better help. You must be doing it because they keep advertising. So I'm glad. I hope you feel better. Good luck with the empathy. OK, so what have you been? You've been working a lot. Does Lori work?
Okay. How do you negotiate that with yourself? How do you feel about, because again, it's a bit old school where it's like, well, somebody's got to make money.
Okay. How do you negotiate that with yourself? How do you feel about, because again, it's a bit old school where it's like, well, somebody's got to make money.
And that's, I don't know the way you were raised, but my mom stayed home and my dad worked. And my dad was absentee. But that's how it worked.
And that's, I don't know the way you were raised, but my mom stayed home and my dad worked. And my dad was absentee. But that's how it worked.
I don't think that that's like she's not doing anything. I just see it as if your son feels that way, is there going to be a point where you're going to go like, look.
I don't think that that's like she's not doing anything. I just see it as if your son feels that way, is there going to be a point where you're going to go like, look.
equation now but there is so much involved with raising a kid and going to all that stuff that she really shouldered most of that yeah well i'm not saying that i don't want it i'm not disparaging her at all i'm just saying is there did you guys discuss it and be like look i'm gonna be you do this and i'll do that
equation now but there is so much involved with raising a kid and going to all that stuff that she really shouldered most of that yeah well i'm not saying that i don't want it i'm not disparaging her at all i'm just saying is there did you guys discuss it and be like look i'm gonna be you do this and i'll do that
I completely forgot that you wrote for shows. I know you wrote for Seinfeld for two, three seasons?
I completely forgot that you wrote for shows. I know you wrote for Seinfeld for two, three seasons?
Yep, three seasons. How many, Larry Sanders?
Yep, three seasons. How many, Larry Sanders?
What other shows have you written for?
What other shows have you written for?
That's great. That show's really good. Thank you.
That's great. That show's really good. Thank you.
Finally. Did it fill the hole? How long? 24 hours?
Finally. Did it fill the hole? How long? 24 hours?
Yeah. Does it feel like significant?
Yeah. Does it feel like significant?
And it worked. Completely. That's funny. I love that when validation, like a shallow thing. Yep. That totally hit the spot.
And it worked. Completely. That's funny. I love that when validation, like a shallow thing. Yep. That totally hit the spot.
I've never won an Emmy. I'm so surprised. Well, I got nominated for a bunch. Yeah. And then on Chappelle's show. And then I kind of won one because I wrote a SNL episode about it. and it won, so I got like a certificate, but I don't, it's not one of my shallow things.
I've never won an Emmy. I'm so surprised. Well, I got nominated for a bunch. Yeah. And then on Chappelle's show. And then I kind of won one because I wrote a SNL episode about it. and it won, so I got like a certificate, but I don't, it's not one of my shallow things.
I never thought, I don't know, I just always thought it was kind of silly, and then it didn't, I don't know, I don't judge, I have plenty of shallow things like that, but it's just, that's just not one of them.
I never thought, I don't know, I just always thought it was kind of silly, and then it didn't, I don't know, I don't judge, I have plenty of shallow things like that, but it's just, that's just not one of them.
And have you worked on that show, the three seasons?
And have you worked on that show, the three seasons?
Great. That must be a fun show to write for in that you are an authority. I mean, obviously you're not in charge, but there must be some.
Great. That must be a fun show to write for in that you are an authority. I mean, obviously you're not in charge, but there must be some.
They must turn to you and be like, is this the thing?
They must turn to you and be like, is this the thing?
Is it more rewarding for that reason? I mean, do you feel more comfortable there? Like what what show did you feel most comfortable at?
Is it more rewarding for that reason? I mean, do you feel more comfortable there? Like what what show did you feel most comfortable at?
Nothing like it. That would make me a little crazy, I think.
Nothing like it. That would make me a little crazy, I think.
No. I don't think that is, actually. Really? Yeah, they still paper rooms. Oh. You should have fought for it.
No. I don't think that is, actually. Really? Yeah, they still paper rooms. Oh. You should have fought for it.
um no they used it oh great all right good um did you did you okay so how did it feel going from full-time comedian to full-time writer did it feel like because i the the i i would argue the showbiz pecking order is like performer and then writers below that in terms of in comedy right i don't know i liked kind of
um no they used it oh great all right good um did you did you okay so how did it feel going from full-time comedian to full-time writer did it feel like because i the the i i would argue the showbiz pecking order is like performer and then writers below that in terms of in comedy right i don't know i liked kind of
And is it something you are still managing or have you just gone like, no, this is good?
And is it something you are still managing or have you just gone like, no, this is good?
Yeah. Yeah. I kind of became a comedian because I was sick of having to try to prove that I was funny in like writing situations. Like, no, this is funny. And they'd be like, all right, let me go. Yeah. Let me go to a hostile environment. So the OK, so what is your your SNL regrets? I didn't see this coming. I'm I'm genuinely curious about what years did you write for SNL?
Yeah. Yeah. I kind of became a comedian because I was sick of having to try to prove that I was funny in like writing situations. Like, no, this is funny. And they'd be like, all right, let me go. Yeah. Let me go to a hostile environment. So the OK, so what is your your SNL regrets? I didn't see this coming. I'm I'm genuinely curious about what years did you write for SNL?
So that was the Robert Downey, Henry Michael Hall? Yes.
So that was the Robert Downey, Henry Michael Hall? Yes.
The end of or beginning of? Oh, he came at the beginning, right?
The end of or beginning of? Oh, he came at the beginning, right?
And who else was, Julie Louis-Dreyfus was performer? No. She was gone.
And who else was, Julie Louis-Dreyfus was performer? No. She was gone.
Oh right, okay. Joan Cusack, yeah. And what was your, had you had a writing job before that?
Oh right, okay. Joan Cusack, yeah. And what was your, had you had a writing job before that?
Okay, so what did you think of the SNL?
Okay, so what did you think of the SNL?
And did they capture it? Did they nail it? Yeah, they did. So was it what, so Lorne's, I don't know if he's in the documentary, but I've heard he said like he hired too many young sort of movie actors. Yeah.
And did they capture it? Did they nail it? Yeah, they did. So was it what, so Lorne's, I don't know if he's in the documentary, but I've heard he said like he hired too many young sort of movie actors. Yeah.
And what was it like from your point of view?
And what was it like from your point of view?
When you're on a project, it's like, what is that smell? And it's not like shit. It's just like, and it's not even necessarily bad. It's like, it's just off.
When you're on a project, it's like, what is that smell? And it's not like shit. It's just like, and it's not even necessarily bad. It's like, it's just off.
I always say it's like fishing by yourself or with somebody.
I always say it's like fishing by yourself or with somebody.
It's like so fishing by yourself. What kind of maniac are you?
It's like so fishing by yourself. What kind of maniac are you?
And Al's hilarious. Yeah. And was incredibly well-versed in sketch writing.
And Al's hilarious. Yeah. And was incredibly well-versed in sketch writing.
How did you find them compared to comedians, in quotes? Some of those guys perform, but I'm saying, like, how did you find their temperament?
How did you find them compared to comedians, in quotes? Some of those guys perform, but I'm saying, like, how did you find their temperament?
And so you said you have some regrets about that.
And so you said you have some regrets about that.
Okay, she's getting back into stand-up. Yes. Carol Leifer, ladies and gentlemen. Carol Leifer. Yes. We were just talking before I did that Star-Spangled intro about when did you get into show business?
Okay, she's getting back into stand-up. Yes. Carol Leifer, ladies and gentlemen. Carol Leifer. Yes. We were just talking before I did that Star-Spangled intro about when did you get into show business?
Did you get, were you a better comic for having worked there?
Did you get, were you a better comic for having worked there?
When you're like, I was wrong about you, baby. You were under my nose the whole time and I didn't realize how good I had it. Yes. What's the worst can happen if we make out? Yeah.
When you're like, I was wrong about you, baby. You were under my nose the whole time and I didn't realize how good I had it. Yes. What's the worst can happen if we make out? Yeah.
And then where did you, when did you figure it out? Like when did you, when did you kind of like, how long did it take you to get good? And how did, how did you get better?
And then where did you, when did you figure it out? Like when did you, when did you kind of like, how long did it take you to get good? And how did, how did you get better?
I know. I'm very committed, but I understand what a powerful line that is. Yeah. Nobody says no. Okay. You have career... We'll put that under career regrets.
I know. I'm very committed, but I understand what a powerful line that is. Yeah. Nobody says no. Okay. You have career... We'll put that under career regrets.
I know. Well, that's what I'm saying. Then you get, everybody gets a million dollars a week.
I know. Well, that's what I'm saying. Then you get, everybody gets a million dollars a week.
So you would say that you definitely centralized your career.
So you would say that you definitely centralized your career.
Made it like the sort of the main thrust of your life. And I say this as like someone who absolutely does and isn't sure if that's the right approach.
Made it like the sort of the main thrust of your life. And I say this as like someone who absolutely does and isn't sure if that's the right approach.
Okay. What do you think it says about you that you're in a successful, happy relationship?
Okay. What do you think it says about you that you're in a successful, happy relationship?
You guys sing Norma Jean every time you do karaoke, right? To commemorate it?
You guys sing Norma Jean every time you do karaoke, right? To commemorate it?
Yeah. You'll watch all the coverage on CNN, on YouTube, and it's... Diana, Princess of Wales, has died after a car crash in Paris. Like, you relive it. It's probably the most important moment of your relationship. It's when you knew that bitch was dead.
Yeah. You'll watch all the coverage on CNN, on YouTube, and it's... Diana, Princess of Wales, has died after a car crash in Paris. Like, you relive it. It's probably the most important moment of your relationship. It's when you knew that bitch was dead.
Do they feel sorry for themselves, do you think?
Do they feel sorry for themselves, do you think?
A writer named Tony Tillamoodie had a line where he said...
A writer named Tony Tillamoodie had a line where he said...
love is not an accomplishment yet to lack it still somehow feels like failure and it's it's like it there there is a judgment to it there is something to like well if you're a good person you'll fall in love or you'll be if you're a good person you'll be in a long-term committed relationship well also if you know how to have a relationship
love is not an accomplishment yet to lack it still somehow feels like failure and it's it's like it there there is a judgment to it there is something to like well if you're a good person you'll fall in love or you'll be if you're a good person you'll be in a long-term committed relationship well also if you know how to have a relationship
Are you, when you say a pain in the ass, what's your, what are you, what's your version of that?
Are you, when you say a pain in the ass, what's your, what are you, what's your version of that?
I know. Well, that's what's so funny about it. It's like it was just a jungle. Yes. It was so uncivil. It was unpaved, the whole thing. Yeah.
I know. Well, that's what's so funny about it. It's like it was just a jungle. Yes. It was so uncivil. It was unpaved, the whole thing. Yeah.
Yeah. Yeah. No, tell me. Because I actually like the idea of it and you're an authority. The book is called How to Give a Good Speech, correct?
Yeah. Yeah. No, tell me. Because I actually like the idea of it and you're an authority. The book is called How to Give a Good Speech, correct?
Yeah. What made you write it and what was the process?
Yeah. What made you write it and what was the process?
I know Rick. Oh, you do? Yeah, great dude. Oh, wow. Wrote for Ellen, right?
I know Rick. Oh, you do? Yeah, great dude. Oh, wow. Wrote for Ellen, right?
What's the theme of your corporate speaking?
What's the theme of your corporate speaking?
What's the theme of the career one? Meaning, like, what are you espousing?
What's the theme of the career one? Meaning, like, what are you espousing?
Yeah, that sounds like you're kidding, but professionally, not that many.
Yeah, that sounds like you're kidding, but professionally, not that many.
Well, yeah, even you saying like, I was like, yeah, I'll write for the Emmys. Like, you know, most people can't just go, I'll write for the Emmys.
Well, yeah, even you saying like, I was like, yeah, I'll write for the Emmys. Like, you know, most people can't just go, I'll write for the Emmys.
Do you think, because I think about this a good amount. Do you think a lot of it's just like, you can throw the ball fast?
Do you think, because I think about this a good amount. Do you think a lot of it's just like, you can throw the ball fast?
Like you just can do it. Yeah. You can do it. And so all the shooting up and down, because they couldn't do it.
Like you just can do it. Yeah. You can do it. And so all the shooting up and down, because they couldn't do it.
And do you think it is a failure of ideology or like if they, do you think there were people that could do it and stopped?
And do you think it is a failure of ideology or like if they, do you think there were people that could do it and stopped?
Yeah. Well, once you mentioned somebody having enough money, do you respect them if they're like, no, I'm good?
Yeah. Well, once you mentioned somebody having enough money, do you respect them if they're like, no, I'm good?
Seen him in Thailand twice. Really? I'm one of the few people who spent time with Tom Agner in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Seen him in Thailand twice. Really? I'm one of the few people who spent time with Tom Agner in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Jerry Ryan, the open mic at that point. Jerry Seinfeld.
Jerry Ryan, the open mic at that point. Jerry Seinfeld.
Yep. Yeah, that's, I think about Agnes, I mean, beyond seeing him, like, I kind of think, like, that's a good one.
Yep. Yeah, that's, I think about Agnes, I mean, beyond seeing him, like, I kind of think, like, that's a good one.
That's a good, that was a good path.
That's a good, that was a good path.
Like, I don't, it wasn't like I can't do it or I'm too, whatever. It's just like, I, this is a better life. Yeah. Yeah, because that's what I wondered the thing about Agnes. You center your career, I think you have to, I agree with you. Yeah. And do you feel like you could stop and be okay? Or is it like it's a bit of a vision quest?
Like, I don't, it wasn't like I can't do it or I'm too, whatever. It's just like, I, this is a better life. Yeah. Yeah, because that's what I wondered the thing about Agnes. You center your career, I think you have to, I agree with you. Yeah. And do you feel like you could stop and be okay? Or is it like it's a bit of a vision quest?
Like a thing inside you, a fire inside you that you just got to do and you don't even really know why and you won't be satisfied until you, look, you got your Emmy.
Like a thing inside you, a fire inside you that you just got to do and you don't even really know why and you won't be satisfied until you, look, you got your Emmy.
You didn't bake bread? You didn't do any of the COVID stuff?
You didn't bake bread? You didn't do any of the COVID stuff?
Did you get into anything during that? I can be very sedentary. Like, I'm ambitious. The thing I liked about COVID was, like, kind of nobody was working. So it kind of felt like the holidays. But for, I mean, nobody out here was working very much. Or, like, it was truncated or whatever. So I enjoy downtime like that.
Did you get into anything during that? I can be very sedentary. Like, I'm ambitious. The thing I liked about COVID was, like, kind of nobody was working. So it kind of felt like the holidays. But for, I mean, nobody out here was working very much. Or, like, it was truncated or whatever. So I enjoy downtime like that.
Yeah, well, I'm curious, like, Judaism didn't help? Is there anything to that, like, in terms of being a spiritual person? I find that that's where I'm headed, and it's not religious. So I just wonder...
Yeah, well, I'm curious, like, Judaism didn't help? Is there anything to that, like, in terms of being a spiritual person? I find that that's where I'm headed, and it's not religious. So I just wonder...
I'm not headed toward religion. I'm just headed toward, like, I'm just more spiritually interested. And it hasn't replaced my showbiz interest. What could? Nothing ever will. But I'm saying, like, I'm a bit like, oh. There's something to this in the same way that I have more ambitions in that department or like I have emotional ambitions more than work ambitions at this point. Right.
I'm not headed toward religion. I'm just headed toward, like, I'm just more spiritually interested. And it hasn't replaced my showbiz interest. What could? Nothing ever will. But I'm saying, like, I'm a bit like, oh. There's something to this in the same way that I have more ambitions in that department or like I have emotional ambitions more than work ambitions at this point. Right.
So I'm wondering if that's ever come up for you.
So I'm wondering if that's ever come up for you.
Yeah. But he was... Why? And I don't... I'm not saying this, like, based on what he became. I'm saying, like, what... I've said to Jerry that he's a bit like Tom Brady or Derek Jeter, these guys who you don't even know how good he is, because he's like ubiquitous now. He's like a stereotype of a comedian, but it's like, that dude's so good and so funny, you don't realize it.
Yeah. But he was... Why? And I don't... I'm not saying this, like, based on what he became. I'm saying, like, what... I've said to Jerry that he's a bit like Tom Brady or Derek Jeter, these guys who you don't even know how good he is, because he's like ubiquitous now. He's like a stereotype of a comedian, but it's like, that dude's so good and so funny, you don't realize it.
I mean, how... No, I don't, I think that's been like maybe in the 80s. Yeah. It was a thing. Right. But yeah, so you don't find... I also find it's a bit like getting closer to death where you're like, all right, where am I headed after this? So what's going to happen? Where are we going? What are we doing?
I mean, how... No, I don't, I think that's been like maybe in the 80s. Yeah. It was a thing. Right. But yeah, so you don't find... I also find it's a bit like getting closer to death where you're like, all right, where am I headed after this? So what's going to happen? Where are we going? What are we doing?
I kind of feel like I'm full of shit in like, are you spiritually interested or are you worried about dying?
I kind of feel like I'm full of shit in like, are you spiritually interested or are you worried about dying?
Yeah, well, I'm trying to get to a place where it's good.
Yeah, well, I'm trying to get to a place where it's good.
Yeah. And do you, you said you don't have many regrets. Is that true when you think about like dying?
Yeah. And do you, you said you don't have many regrets. Is that true when you think about like dying?
Well, that's what I was going to say. You've done a lot. Yeah. And I don't mean, I feel like you've traversed a big portion of history. I mean, like you've lived through like the beginning of feminism and like you've been around for most of feminism.
Well, that's what I was going to say. You've done a lot. Yeah. And I don't mean, I feel like you've traversed a big portion of history. I mean, like you've lived through like the beginning of feminism and like you've been around for most of feminism.
You were a rare person. woman in comedy you wrote for some of the best shows ever like you've been a you're a great comic you still like that's what I'm saying like yeah write a song you can write a song yeah that's a funny dream
You were a rare person. woman in comedy you wrote for some of the best shows ever like you've been a you're a great comic you still like that's what I'm saying like yeah write a song you can write a song yeah that's a funny dream
I guess then it becomes like, well, what's your goal for the song?
I guess then it becomes like, well, what's your goal for the song?
Meaning like, you could write a song on AI today if you wanted to.
Meaning like, you could write a song on AI today if you wanted to.
Is there, so what is the, any other, are there any like soul regrets? Not necessarily like writing or is there like, did you, are you the kind of person you wanted to be?
Is there, so what is the, any other, are there any like soul regrets? Not necessarily like writing or is there like, did you, are you the kind of person you wanted to be?
So I'm wondering what a guy who's 23, 24, what was he like?
So I'm wondering what a guy who's 23, 24, what was he like?
Yeah. Yeah. And you were sort of like... I don't know what your ethics or morals are, but you feel like you mostly live by them?
Yeah. Yeah. And you were sort of like... I don't know what your ethics or morals are, but you feel like you mostly live by them?
Well, I grew up Catholic, so parking. Do you know what I mean? I can bring myself up on charges.
Well, I grew up Catholic, so parking. Do you know what I mean? I can bring myself up on charges.
For anything. But I think mostly. But I also think the best a human being can do is like a bee.
For anything. But I think mostly. But I also think the best a human being can do is like a bee.
Yeah. Because there's just too many ways to lose in this moral game. I just think there's just like, I don't know, like I'm driving a Tesla. Is that... He's a Nazi now. What do you I don't know. I used to he used to not be. Is it is that but I'm helping the environment. But I'm like all these doing that. I can do the calculus.
Yeah. Because there's just too many ways to lose in this moral game. I just think there's just like, I don't know, like I'm driving a Tesla. Is that... He's a Nazi now. What do you I don't know. I used to he used to not be. Is it is that but I'm helping the environment. But I'm like all these doing that. I can do the calculus.
All day. And you can run the numbers where you lose. So like I don't and I'm not saying that to guilt people. I'm just like, oh, it's hard. It's like the day is long.
All day. And you can run the numbers where you lose. So like I don't and I'm not saying that to guilt people. I'm just like, oh, it's hard. It's like the day is long.
And you just you're going to make and then life is long.
And you just you're going to make and then life is long.
Yes, if you're lucky, it's long. So then you can stick around and be immoral.
Yes, if you're lucky, it's long. So then you can stick around and be immoral.
I hope you really rub it in his face. The book is called How to Write a Funny Speech. For a wedding? With Rick Mitchell. Yes. The great Rick Mitchell. He's so funny. Who's a really funny mother.
I hope you really rub it in his face. The book is called How to Write a Funny Speech. For a wedding? With Rick Mitchell. Yes. The great Rick Mitchell. He's so funny. Who's a really funny mother.
Very funny. Yes. And I love to work with him. And again, anyone that can write topical jokes, and he wrote for Ellen for six, seven, eight years. And he wrote some of the stand-up. And he's a stand-up. Yeah. You both have my respect. Yeah, I will read that because I'm always I think it's there's not a lot of instruction.
Very funny. Yes. And I love to work with him. And again, anyone that can write topical jokes, and he wrote for Ellen for six, seven, eight years. And he wrote some of the stand-up. And he's a stand-up. Yeah. You both have my respect. Yeah, I will read that because I'm always I think it's there's not a lot of instruction.
And people people will come to people like you and me. How do I do this? And there is a I know how I do it. You know what I mean?
And people people will come to people like you and me. How do I do this? And there is a I know how I do it. You know what I mean?
And then, but, I mean, I could probably explain it or whatever, but I'm glad that now I can just go, there is a good book.
And then, but, I mean, I could probably explain it or whatever, but I'm glad that now I can just go, there is a good book.
As a professional funny person? Yes. It's fun to write jokes about a thing I don't write about. I try to use that as a writing exercise of like, what if I had to talk to a bunch of veterinarians tonight? What jokes would I do? Yeah. So yeah, that's a great... That's great.
As a professional funny person? Yes. It's fun to write jokes about a thing I don't write about. I try to use that as a writing exercise of like, what if I had to talk to a bunch of veterinarians tonight? What jokes would I do? Yeah. So yeah, that's a great... That's great.
It ruins an hour of the event, yeah. Yes.
It ruins an hour of the event, yeah. Yes.
At least a public service. Yes. Talk about, I mean, if the adoption didn't get you.
At least a public service. Yes. Talk about, I mean, if the adoption didn't get you.
I like that that's your, that's the, Carol Leifer, she's the real deal, ladies and gentlemen.
I like that that's your, that's the, Carol Leifer, she's the real deal, ladies and gentlemen.
Yeah. And also it was probably, it sounds like, I mean, his attitude now is like, no, you're funny. So you get to do standup.
Yeah. And also it was probably, it sounds like, I mean, his attitude now is like, no, you're funny. So you get to do standup.
Like, well, you're, you're funny. So you'll go on. You'll be funny. Then another, there's another funny person. They'll go on. Right. And it isn't, it isn't very lorded in my experience. Yeah.
Like, well, you're, you're funny. So you'll go on. You'll be funny. Then another, there's another funny person. They'll go on. Right. And it isn't, it isn't very lorded in my experience. Yeah.
I'd love to hear it, because all I do is think about premises. So if you have an interest, like, oh, fuck, it's like the treasure hunt or something. But it isn't even, treasure hunt implies like, there is competition, but I know, but it's kind of vague. And then, so how long does it take for you to figure it out?
I'd love to hear it, because all I do is think about premises. So if you have an interest, like, oh, fuck, it's like the treasure hunt or something. But it isn't even, treasure hunt implies like, there is competition, but I know, but it's kind of vague. And then, so how long does it take for you to figure it out?
And I kind of took- How often were you doing it at that point?
And I kind of took- How often were you doing it at that point?
Right. And Steven Wright was like, you got to do Monday. That changed everything.
Right. And Steven Wright was like, you got to do Monday. That changed everything.
Yeah. And that took four or five years?
Yeah. And that took four or five years?
What do you think is happening? So you were going to theater school? Did it feel like, this is kind of a continuation of that, or did it feel like?
What do you think is happening? So you were going to theater school? Did it feel like, this is kind of a continuation of that, or did it feel like?
Yeah, preternaturally, yeah. What did you think your life was going to be?
Yeah, preternaturally, yeah. What did you think your life was going to be?
Yeah, that must have been like... Because this is the 70s? Yes. Okay, so that's what I mean. Like it was, nobody was in showbiz.
Yeah, that must have been like... Because this is the 70s? Yes. Okay, so that's what I mean. Like it was, nobody was in showbiz.
Yeah, like, you can go viral. It was the version of going viral.
Yeah, like, you can go viral. It was the version of going viral.
Okay, so did you have that experience? You're out here in 82. Does that happen?
Okay, so did you have that experience? You're out here in 82. Does that happen?
Of course, huge mistake. I can tell you right now.
Of course, huge mistake. I can tell you right now.
Yes, but also sexist, racist, etc.
Yes, but also sexist, racist, etc.
Oh, like the first year. Yeah, in the first couple of months.
Oh, like the first year. Yeah, in the first couple of months.
How many times did you do Letterman? 25 And that wasn't that didn't count as an audition
How many times did you do Letterman? 25 And that wasn't that didn't count as an audition
So that's 25 appearances of five minutes each.
So that's 25 appearances of five minutes each.
Okay, so then you finally did The Tonight Show.
Okay, so then you finally did The Tonight Show.
Right. So was it like meeting a Martian? When you were always funny, I would assume.
Right. So was it like meeting a Martian? When you were always funny, I would assume.
Yeah. That's funny that good switch. Like he's just a guy who's writing. He's just dealing with material all day. This is a good switch. We'll use this here. Okay. So then what's your life like with all this stuff? Like what's your life been like? This is, we're going to get to blocks. Relax.
Yeah. That's funny that good switch. Like he's just a guy who's writing. He's just dealing with material all day. This is a good switch. We'll use this here. Okay. So then what's your life like with all this stuff? Like what's your life been like? This is, we're going to get to blocks. Relax.
I guess that's what I'm curious about. It's like, what's, what's it like to be you?
I guess that's what I'm curious about. It's like, what's, what's it like to be you?
But then you meet somebody that's like, can do so many things.
But then you meet somebody that's like, can do so many things.
Oh, feedback being like, you're good at this. Yeah. I thought you meant like tips. Okay, I get you. Yeah, yeah. Where you're like, oh, no, yeah, the tone of it's different. Right. People talk to you like you belong.
Oh, feedback being like, you're good at this. Yeah. I thought you meant like tips. Okay, I get you. Yeah, yeah. Where you're like, oh, no, yeah, the tone of it's different. Right. People talk to you like you belong.
Instead of like, there's not much suspicion.
Instead of like, there's not much suspicion.
hi guys neil brennan's the blacks podcast my guest today is a guy i've known a little bit for a long time he's a performer and writer you would know him from the nightly show in comedy central and now he makes appearances on bill maher's show and he's got a podcast called black on the mic black on the air black on the air i'm freestyling this it's all good
hi guys neil brennan's the blacks podcast my guest today is a guy i've known a little bit for a long time he's a performer and writer you would know him from the nightly show in comedy central and now he makes appearances on bill maher's show and he's got a podcast called black on the mic black on the air black on the air i'm freestyling this it's all good
Is there a way, do you think you could have handled it with praise? Or do you think it was you needed to do more?
Is there a way, do you think you could have handled it with praise? Or do you think it was you needed to do more?
So the thing that I wanted to talk to you about, because I've known when you were doing the Nightly Show, I would hear from time to time that you're a little conservative. Now you would, as you said, you're still considered a libtard by people, by actual conservatives.
So the thing that I wanted to talk to you about, because I've known when you were doing the Nightly Show, I would hear from time to time that you're a little conservative. Now you would, as you said, you're still considered a libtard by people, by actual conservatives.
Yeah, I mean, that's what I'm wondering is, because I don't know how most people do it in terms of, so you're working, you're high up at shows or created shows, you're working 12 hours a day probably.
Yeah, I mean, that's what I'm wondering is, because I don't know how most people do it in terms of, so you're working, you're high up at shows or created shows, you're working 12 hours a day probably.
And then you get home and... You know what I mean? What's the solution? There's not a lot of good ones. Did you get a nanny?
And then you get home and... You know what I mean? What's the solution? There's not a lot of good ones. Did you get a nanny?
So you feel like you would give it lip service, but it's hard to... I just didn't relate to it because I thought I was doing my part and she was doing hers.
So you feel like you would give it lip service, but it's hard to... I just didn't relate to it because I thought I was doing my part and she was doing hers.
I got to say, I don't love being... accused of being a bad partner yeah not not not that big a fan especially when you were working 14 hours a day yes you know exactly and you're like no big deal yeah that didn't do it that was a big trigger yeah so that that was your sort of that was the thing you had no concept of.
I got to say, I don't love being... accused of being a bad partner yeah not not not that big a fan especially when you were working 14 hours a day yes you know exactly and you're like no big deal yeah that didn't do it that was a big trigger yeah so that that was your sort of that was the thing you had no concept of.
And now you're, you said you have a girlfriend, um, that your wife doesn't know about. Um, uh, ex wife now, but so you have a girlfriend. What have you, how are you a better partner now?
And now you're, you said you have a girlfriend, um, that your wife doesn't know about. Um, uh, ex wife now, but so you have a girlfriend. What have you, how are you a better partner now?
All I'm working on is getting through it faster. And it is faster. I'll tell you, it's three times faster than it was. Still pretty slow. But that's pretty good.
All I'm working on is getting through it faster. And it is faster. I'll tell you, it's three times faster than it was. Still pretty slow. But that's pretty good.
I think that the thing of taking... uh criticism i don't take it well yeah because i think it's i always think like so all you're basically throwing away all of my behavior yeah and saying and bringing me up on charges for this and it's like it it it's i feel like it's disrespectful to the good stuff yeah criticism's tough
I think that the thing of taking... uh criticism i don't take it well yeah because i think it's i always think like so all you're basically throwing away all of my behavior yeah and saying and bringing me up on charges for this and it's like it it it's i feel like it's disrespectful to the good stuff yeah criticism's tough
yeah i'm not good at it either because i have also been arguing sort of like i i mean i have a whole theory about like don't give each other notes i genuinely will not give her notes right i will not give her improvements i will not give her it's like just as is right it's a restaurant with no substitutions right that's the feeling it's like you like it cool right is it bearable are the bad parts bearable because i don't i didn't get in a relationship to change right
yeah i'm not good at it either because i have also been arguing sort of like i i mean i have a whole theory about like don't give each other notes i genuinely will not give her notes right i will not give her improvements i will not give her it's like just as is right it's a restaurant with no substitutions right that's the feeling it's like you like it cool right is it bearable are the bad parts bearable because i don't i didn't get in a relationship to change right
I got a relationship to enjoy myself. So.
I got a relationship to enjoy myself. So.
yeah so they'll hide the lever which is yeah close the doors right but i but i don't time machines she knows i don't want kids she has kids so i'm like involved there how old are her kids four it's he's one it's one it's one child he's four oh okay so so so there's the good job danny Yep. And so so he's forgotten his old daddy already. Forget it.
yeah so they'll hide the lever which is yeah close the doors right but i but i don't time machines she knows i don't want kids she has kids so i'm like involved there how old are her kids four it's he's one it's one it's one child he's four oh okay so so so there's the good job danny Yep. And so so he's forgotten his old daddy already. Forget it.
So I guess that's the thing I don't do well with and is criticism because it just feels like I'm a good I'm good. Stop it. This is good stuff. And I so I am in favor of breaking the time machine because there is no we're not moving toward anything. I'm not doing that. I'm not gonna have kids.
So I guess that's the thing I don't do well with and is criticism because it just feels like I'm a good I'm good. Stop it. This is good stuff. And I so I am in favor of breaking the time machine because there is no we're not moving toward anything. I'm not doing that. I'm not gonna have kids.
Nope. Never been meaningful to me. Right.
Nope. Never been meaningful to me. Right.
I just think it's fake security. It's like TSA.
I just think it's fake security. It's like TSA.
It's never going to be real security. It's not real security.
It's never going to be real security. It's not real security.
I don't care what you perceive. I can prove to you it's not real security. All I have to do is call a lawyer and it's over. Right. So that's not real security.
I don't care what you perceive. I can prove to you it's not real security. All I have to do is call a lawyer and it's over. Right. So that's not real security.
So there is no security in a Neil Brennan relationship. You ain't get it. No, there is security in that I'm committed to you, but I don't need the government's help or lawyers.
So there is no security in a Neil Brennan relationship. You ain't get it. No, there is security in that I'm committed to you, but I don't need the government's help or lawyers.
No, I don't. I understand how it, as a Catholic, I understand guilt. Yeah. And I understand shame, but I don't.
No, I don't. I understand how it, as a Catholic, I understand guilt. Yeah. And I understand shame, but I don't.
Yeah, I don't do well with doing. I mean, the blocks was about like all these things I'm supposed to do that I cannot do. I'm not good at them. Did you grow up Catholic? Did you say?
Yeah, I don't do well with doing. I mean, the blocks was about like all these things I'm supposed to do that I cannot do. I'm not good at them. Did you grow up Catholic? Did you say?
Yeah. So like I get the I'm very familiar with. Yeah. With institutional.
Yeah. So like I get the I'm very familiar with. Yeah. With institutional.
So I I get what it is. I just don't think it's worth anything.
So I I get what it is. I just don't think it's worth anything.
In and of itself. I get that it's insurance. Right. If you have a kid with somebody you've.
In and of itself. I get that it's insurance. Right. If you have a kid with somebody you've.
absolutely like they deserve protection yeah i i agree with that but i don't i'm not gonna you know so it's like i don't need this thing of like well i've done well so then if we get divorced you get happy it's like it doesn't it doesn't make any sense to me and you can't make it make sense people try i would never no i know you wouldn't try but others have tried yeah um what other i'm on the neil train oh yeah you have a girlfriend for seven years so you get it
absolutely like they deserve protection yeah i i agree with that but i don't i'm not gonna you know so it's like i don't need this thing of like well i've done well so then if we get divorced you get happy it's like it doesn't it doesn't make any sense to me and you can't make it make sense people try i would never no i know you wouldn't try but others have tried yeah um what other i'm on the neil train oh yeah you have a girlfriend for seven years so you get it
You know guys, spring is in the air. The weather's warming up and I'm most looking forward to taking longer walks in a nice t-shirt like I'm doing right now. LA doesn't get cold, but it gets a little cold. You know what I mean? And once it warms up a little bit, I'm talking about like a dusk. walk, you know, where you don't have to wear a jacket. You feel like you did something right in life.
You know guys, spring is in the air. The weather's warming up and I'm most looking forward to taking longer walks in a nice t-shirt like I'm doing right now. LA doesn't get cold, but it gets a little cold. You know what I mean? And once it warms up a little bit, I'm talking about like a dusk. walk, you know, where you don't have to wear a jacket. You feel like you did something right in life.
Most people don't. People think you need to be loyal to your own beliefs. Or it's like you have the merch. Like, I bought all the shit. I have all the arguments lined up. Whereas I think it's more interesting to just go like, what do I actually feel about this? Right.
Most people don't. People think you need to be loyal to your own beliefs. Or it's like you have the merch. Like, I bought all the shit. I have all the arguments lined up. Whereas I think it's more interesting to just go like, what do I actually feel about this? Right.
And I'm looking forward to it even more because I've started using Mando whole body deodorant. I haven't even started. I've been using it. Unlike other deodorants I've tried, it can actually handle anything. I mostly am a Mando in the pits guy, occasionally on the back a little bit, but you know, the thing I like about Mando doesn't stain the t-shirt and it lasts all day.
And I'm looking forward to it even more because I've started using Mando whole body deodorant. I haven't even started. I've been using it. Unlike other deodorants I've tried, it can actually handle anything. I mostly am a Mando in the pits guy, occasionally on the back a little bit, but you know, the thing I like about Mando doesn't stain the t-shirt and it lasts all day.
I've told this story before. I switched to a different deodorant. I ran out of Mando. Now they still at Target, by the way. I'm like proud of them. And it's just a solid deodorant. It's a little fresh. I like Mount Fuji. Of course, everybody knows that. It's a great deodorant. The whole body deodorant is safe to use anywhere on your body. And I mean, ding, anywhere.
I've told this story before. I switched to a different deodorant. I ran out of Mando. Now they still at Target, by the way. I'm like proud of them. And it's just a solid deodorant. It's a little fresh. I like Mount Fuji. Of course, everybody knows that. It's a great deodorant. The whole body deodorant is safe to use anywhere on your body. And I mean, ding, anywhere.
pits wherever you're gonna do it it's all safe and uh but you but whatever you gotta do mando starter pack is perfect for new customers it comes with a solid stick deodorant cream tube deodorant two free products of your choice like mini body wash and deodorant wipes which you know i've used and free shipping as a special offer for listeners.
pits wherever you're gonna do it it's all safe and uh but you but whatever you gotta do mando starter pack is perfect for new customers it comes with a solid stick deodorant cream tube deodorant two free products of your choice like mini body wash and deodorant wipes which you know i've used and free shipping as a special offer for listeners.
New customers get $5 off a starter pack with our exclusive code that equates to over 40% off your starter pack. Use code NEAL at shopmando.com, S-H-O-P-M-A-N-D-O.com. Please support our show and tell them we sent you. Smell fresher, stay drier, and boost your confidence from head to toe with Mando. This show is sponsored by BetterHelp.
New customers get $5 off a starter pack with our exclusive code that equates to over 40% off your starter pack. Use code NEAL at shopmando.com, S-H-O-P-M-A-N-D-O.com. Please support our show and tell them we sent you. Smell fresher, stay drier, and boost your confidence from head to toe with Mando. This show is sponsored by BetterHelp.
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as the state of your physical health. I'm assuming you take care of your physical health. This is the therapy podcast.
Therapy can feel like a big investment, but the state of your mind is just as important as the state of your physical health. I'm assuming you take care of your physical health. This is the therapy podcast.
You know I've benefited, it's helped me draw boundaries, helped me understand codependence, helped me with pretty much every female relationship I've ever had, a lot of writing partnerships I've had. You can just, you'll get, you're never gonna get worse. You know what I mean? I've never laughed and been like, what a waste of time. It's not just for people who've experienced trauma.
You know I've benefited, it's helped me draw boundaries, helped me understand codependence, helped me with pretty much every female relationship I've ever had, a lot of writing partnerships I've had. You can just, you'll get, you're never gonna get worse. You know what I mean? I've never laughed and been like, what a waste of time. It's not just for people who've experienced trauma.
Here's the thing about BetterHelp. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's a lot of people. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Here's the call to action.
Here's the thing about BetterHelp. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's a lot of people. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. Plus, switch therapists at any time. Here's the call to action.
It's mandatory, and I'm going to read it verbatim. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com slash NEAL today to get 10% off your first month. That's B-E-T-T-E-R-H-E-L-P dot com slash NEAL. BetterHelp. What other unpopular opinions or things that you didn't know or things you've changed your mind about?
It's mandatory, and I'm going to read it verbatim. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com slash NEAL today to get 10% off your first month. That's B-E-T-T-E-R-H-E-L-P dot com slash NEAL. BetterHelp. What other unpopular opinions or things that you didn't know or things you've changed your mind about?
Go. I'm interested because I have also.
Go. I'm interested because I have also.
I was in church the other day. I literally went to church with my mom, and it was like, this is the most convoluted storytelling I've ever fucking heard. The fact that they call it the greatest story ever told, it's like, guys, this isn't even in the top 1,000.
I was in church the other day. I literally went to church with my mom, and it was like, this is the most convoluted storytelling I've ever fucking heard. The fact that they call it the greatest story ever told, it's like, guys, this isn't even in the top 1,000.
Yep, correct. That's pretty crazy. It's one of the many things that's bananas about it.
Yep, correct. That's pretty crazy. It's one of the many things that's bananas about it.
There you go. Another very convoluted term that's unnecessary. They didn't need to... Did you... So that was your... So then you fell out?
There you go. Another very convoluted term that's unnecessary. They didn't need to... Did you... So that was your... So then you fell out?
That they need a moral framework from a religious organization. I think there's value in it, yes. More value than not. Yes, correct. Fine, because I wonder.
That they need a moral framework from a religious organization. I think there's value in it, yes. More value than not. Yes, correct. Fine, because I wonder.
Well, I've spoken to people that didn't grow up religious, and they were like, yeah, you just get a moral framework from your parents and the world.
Well, I've spoken to people that didn't grow up religious, and they were like, yeah, you just get a moral framework from your parents and the world.
Are there any that jumped to mind in your life that you were sure of and then you were like, oh.
Are there any that jumped to mind in your life that you were sure of and then you were like, oh.
What was the what's the short version of what he said?
What was the what's the short version of what he said?
All right, well, the question I was, because I went kind of the opposite way where I was agnostic atheist and then I took ayahuasca and sort of experienced the God, right? And I haven't been able to shake it in a good way.
All right, well, the question I was, because I went kind of the opposite way where I was agnostic atheist and then I took ayahuasca and sort of experienced the God, right? And I haven't been able to shake it in a good way.
He was the creator of the PJs, which you haven't thought about in a while. The co-creator of Bernie Mac?
He was the creator of the PJs, which you haven't thought about in a while. The co-creator of Bernie Mac?
I experienced a god or a central creation force or an interconnectedness that I have in a drug experience, ayahuasca and DMT and MDMA and mushrooms, and it has not faded.
I experienced a god or a central creation force or an interconnectedness that I have in a drug experience, ayahuasca and DMT and MDMA and mushrooms, and it has not faded.
The first one was four years ago.
The first one was four years ago.
It was a feeling of a God. It was a feeling of a central creation force.
It was a feeling of a God. It was a feeling of a central creation force.
Whew. uh something turned this on and i felt connected to it to the something that spirit of yourself yes that was something some force there that yeah yeah it's interesting you know Yeah, and again, I couldn't sell anybody on it because it's something I experienced. And I don't need you to not eat meat or I don't need any.
Whew. uh something turned this on and i felt connected to it to the something that spirit of yourself yes that was something some force there that yeah yeah it's interesting you know Yeah, and again, I couldn't sell anybody on it because it's something I experienced. And I don't need you to not eat meat or I don't need any.
It makes me entire. It's the only, and I had this experience and then I watched an interview with Sting.
It makes me entire. It's the only, and I had this experience and then I watched an interview with Sting.
Yeah. It was like I hadn't had one. He grew up some kind of, I think, Christian. I'm brought up Catholic. And then I... Oh, this is it was basically like, oh, this is what they said church was. I actually experienced it. Right. And I've heard people say, like, the body of Christ is Iowa. Like, it's based in that and tribal and it's got a 10. It's got 10 different precursors. Right. Whatever.
Yeah. It was like I hadn't had one. He grew up some kind of, I think, Christian. I'm brought up Catholic. And then I... Oh, this is it was basically like, oh, this is what they said church was. I actually experienced it. Right. And I've heard people say, like, the body of Christ is Iowa. Like, it's based in that and tribal and it's got a 10. It's got 10 different precursors. Right. Whatever.
But Christianity or Catholicism. But the only spiritual experience I've ever had, and it's been continuous and it, it makes it change my life, but it's not, I don't proselytize. I don't, it's just like change my experience. Right. But I don't,
But Christianity or Catholicism. But the only spiritual experience I've ever had, and it's been continuous and it, it makes it change my life, but it's not, I don't proselytize. I don't, it's just like change my experience. Right. But I don't,
No, there's no, it's not organized. It's not, I don't need to. It's a thing. Yeah, it's an experience and a thing I think I feel. Sure, I get it.
No, there's no, it's not organized. It's not, I don't need to. It's a thing. Yeah, it's an experience and a thing I think I feel. Sure, I get it.
The best one being money in that book.
The best one being money in that book.
Money being like, no, it's just a thing we all agree to.
Money being like, no, it's just a thing we all agree to.
Bring him to a show, get a drink afterward. Exactly.
Bring him to a show, get a drink afterward. Exactly.
Yeah, it's like the death row conversion. It's like, wow, so you're going to die in an hour and you just realize you're going to die. It's done. So now you're interested. I find myself where I'm like, well, I am getting older. Maybe it's just pure self-interest. Or people that stop getting hired in showbiz and go like, showbiz is stupid and shut up. Yeah, that's the thing.
Yeah, it's like the death row conversion. It's like, wow, so you're going to die in an hour and you just realize you're going to die. It's done. So now you're interested. I find myself where I'm like, well, I am getting older. Maybe it's just pure self-interest. Or people that stop getting hired in showbiz and go like, showbiz is stupid and shut up. Yeah, that's the thing.
He's a king of the Magic Castle. You're an officer at the Magic Castle.
He's a king of the Magic Castle. You're an officer at the Magic Castle.
I'm entirely comfortable admitting that that may be it. And I don't really... All I can say for myself is it's not cool believing in something. And no one thinks I'm cooler because of it. There is the self-interest of like, when I die, I don't die. There's no way for me to, there's no code of behavior that I need to follow in order to get there.
I'm entirely comfortable admitting that that may be it. And I don't really... All I can say for myself is it's not cool believing in something. And no one thinks I'm cooler because of it. There is the self-interest of like, when I die, I don't die. There's no way for me to, there's no code of behavior that I need to follow in order to get there.
Because that's the other thing where you go like, oh, this is man-made.
Because that's the other thing where you go like, oh, this is man-made.
Yeah, which is another way nerds control social situations. Exactly. Maybe more hostilely than comedy.
Yeah, which is another way nerds control social situations. Exactly. Maybe more hostilely than comedy.
Right, which, okay, so you do believe in ghosts.
Right, which, okay, so you do believe in ghosts.
tap into to that or something like that or yeah people inventing things at the same in like the same period i firmly believe in that cluster yeah people that couldn't possibly that weren't connected before the world was connected people inventing things amazing you know what happens in comedy too absolutely where somebody will think of a bit and then
tap into to that or something like that or yeah people inventing things at the same in like the same period i firmly believe in that cluster yeah people that couldn't possibly that weren't connected before the world was connected people inventing things amazing you know what happens in comedy too absolutely where somebody will think of a bit and then
I thought of a bit, I tweeted it, and then somebody had tweeted it the day before, someone I didn't follow, somebody I was just like, they accused me of stealing, and it was like... Look at the Renaissance.
I thought of a bit, I tweeted it, and then somebody had tweeted it the day before, someone I didn't follow, somebody I was just like, they accused me of stealing, and it was like... Look at the Renaissance.
Do you and do you take is that would that be part of the maybe there's something to a God or a spirit world?
Do you and do you take is that would that be part of the maybe there's something to a God or a spirit world?
I know, yeah. In fact, most we're not aware of.
I know, yeah. In fact, most we're not aware of.
Well, what I was going to ask is, do you believe that science is deciphering God? No. Okay. Yeah.
Well, what I was going to ask is, do you believe that science is deciphering God? No. Okay. Yeah.
I totally disagree with that. That part I completely, because I don't think religion, religion to me is a way of honoring God. I think it's all silly, but like it's as if God needs, whatever. Like God's very insecure and you need to speak well of it. It's like silly.
I totally disagree with that. That part I completely, because I don't think religion, religion to me is a way of honoring God. I think it's all silly, but like it's as if God needs, whatever. Like God's very insecure and you need to speak well of it. It's like silly.
I invented the car, you fucking asshole. So I don't find religion to be, it's almost completely not related to God to me in a way.
I invented the car, you fucking asshole. So I don't find religion to be, it's almost completely not related to God to me in a way.
I mean, I know what they mean, but I'm inclined to think that it's deciphering. Nature is God and it's deciphering. Whatever. Sure. Did your life get better as a result or worse? Or push? Push.
I mean, I know what they mean, but I'm inclined to think that it's deciphering. Nature is God and it's deciphering. Whatever. Sure. Did your life get better as a result or worse? Or push? Push.
I don't think, I think it's all one thing. It's red. Like you're God, I'm God, it's all God. It's whatever. It's beyond esoteric. So did your life get better or worse or push from going from agnostic or deep?
I don't think, I think it's all one thing. It's red. Like you're God, I'm God, it's all God. It's whatever. It's beyond esoteric. So did your life get better or worse or push from going from agnostic or deep?
How much of it's informed by Catholicism, do you think?
How much of it's informed by Catholicism, do you think?
Because there is something to be said for like, it is, obviously parts of it are so useless and just like.
Because there is something to be said for like, it is, obviously parts of it are so useless and just like.
absolutely sure and at the same time there's a lot of good stuff really good stuff that jesus said and there's a lot of stuff that's right for jokes yeah yeah both of those things are true okay so that's i'm that's very interesting that you've you've gotten less less faith-based or whatever
absolutely sure and at the same time there's a lot of good stuff really good stuff that jesus said and there's a lot of stuff that's right for jokes yeah yeah both of those things are true okay so that's i'm that's very interesting that you've you've gotten less less faith-based or whatever
Does that not contradict your moral framework for children?
Does that not contradict your moral framework for children?
Yeah, and it is not based on pleasing God. It's just like, I don't know, it's just not being an asshole.
Yeah, and it is not based on pleasing God. It's just like, I don't know, it's just not being an asshole.
Sure. Have you ever overly, have you ever been, have you ever abandoned yourself in a way that you regret in service of others?
Sure. Have you ever overly, have you ever been, have you ever abandoned yourself in a way that you regret in service of others?
Well, no, I've just done it. I mean, I think women probably do it more than men.
Well, no, I've just done it. I mean, I think women probably do it more than men.
But the service, all service all the time.
But the service, all service all the time.
And then you end up kind of fucking yourself and you abandon yourself and you end up.
And then you end up kind of fucking yourself and you abandon yourself and you end up.
Yeah. Or just be or martyr yourself or whatever. Let's do some actual blocks and not just the ones I threw at him.
Yeah. Or just be or martyr yourself or whatever. Let's do some actual blocks and not just the ones I threw at him.
You know, you sign up for something, you forget about it after the trial period ends, then you're charged month after month after month. The subscriptions are there, but you're not using them. I mean, you're not using the service. In fact, I just learned that 85% of people have at least one paid subscription going unused each month.
You know, you sign up for something, you forget about it after the trial period ends, then you're charged month after month after month. The subscriptions are there, but you're not using them. I mean, you're not using the service. In fact, I just learned that 85% of people have at least one paid subscription going unused each month.
thanks to rocket money i can see all my subscriptions in one place and cancel the ones i'm not using anymore and now i'm saving more money you see rocket money is a personal finance app that helps find and cancel your unwanted subscriptions monitors your spending and helps lower your bills so you can grow your savings see all of your subscriptions in one place and know exactly where your money's going for once you don't want anymore rocket money can even help you cancel them i may have canceled a newspaper that used to be a little more to my
thanks to rocket money i can see all my subscriptions in one place and cancel the ones i'm not using anymore and now i'm saving more money you see rocket money is a personal finance app that helps find and cancel your unwanted subscriptions monitors your spending and helps lower your bills so you can grow your savings see all of your subscriptions in one place and know exactly where your money's going for once you don't want anymore rocket money can even help you cancel them i may have canceled a newspaper that used to be a little more to my
used to die. Democracy used to, whatever. Rocket Money has over 5 million users and has saved a total of $500 million in canceled subscriptions, saving members up to $740 a year when using all of the app's premium features. Here's the call to action. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to rocketmoney.com slash NEAL today.
used to die. Democracy used to, whatever. Rocket Money has over 5 million users and has saved a total of $500 million in canceled subscriptions, saving members up to $740 a year when using all of the app's premium features. Here's the call to action. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to rocketmoney.com slash NEAL today.
That's rocketmoney.com slash NEAL. rocketmoney.com slash NEAL. Rocket Money. Here's a good bombing story. I went on a date with a woman, second date. I was doing blocks in New York, invited her to come see it. And I think the worst show of the, I don't know how many I did, 60 shows? Worst one I did. And the lady ghosted me. You almost have to respect it. You know what I mean?
That's rocketmoney.com slash NEAL. rocketmoney.com slash NEAL. Rocket Money. Here's a good bombing story. I went on a date with a woman, second date. I was doing blocks in New York, invited her to come see it. And I think the worst show of the, I don't know how many I did, 60 shows? Worst one I did. And the lady ghosted me. You almost have to respect it. You know what I mean?
Look, not every show is good. Not every joke, you know, delivers. But Harry's always delivers. They send the best quality razors right to your door for a fraction of the price of the big brands. Sometimes when I really need to go tight on the neck, I'll use the blade. And I tried Harry's because I know someone who works there. And I paid for it. I did it. And it's real tight. It was inexpensive.
Look, not every show is good. Not every joke, you know, delivers. But Harry's always delivers. They send the best quality razors right to your door for a fraction of the price of the big brands. Sometimes when I really need to go tight on the neck, I'll use the blade. And I tried Harry's because I know someone who works there. And I paid for it. I did it. And it's real tight. It was inexpensive.
And it's just a good razor. I don't know what to say. It's just a good... If you're trying to look at a razor, Harry's is a good razor. And it's a good deal. It doesn't feel cheap in your hand. It's like a nice... I didn't get nicked. I didn't get cut. It didn't feel chintzy. It didn't feel...
And it's just a good razor. I don't know what to say. It's just a good... If you're trying to look at a razor, Harry's is a good razor. And it's a good deal. It doesn't feel cheap in your hand. It's like a nice... I didn't get nicked. I didn't get cut. It didn't feel chintzy. It didn't feel...
gross oh i i also tried harry's uh hair gel which is i not only did i like the pun i like the product i'm not wearing it right now but it's a nice gel i have some i got it i got it my travel bag it's good stuff use it for just oh when it smells good smells fresh any other razor like razor like that they just feel cheap and plasticky here's the call to action
gross oh i i also tried harry's uh hair gel which is i not only did i like the pun i like the product i'm not wearing it right now but it's a nice gel i have some i got it i got it my travel bag it's good stuff use it for just oh when it smells good smells fresh any other razor like razor like that they just feel cheap and plasticky here's the call to action
Get the shaving products that always deliver. Get Harry's. Normally, their trial set is $13, but right now you can get it for just $3 at harrys.com. That's our exclusive link, harrys.com for a $3 trial set. harrys.com. God bless. You've got procrastination and messiness, which just seems like kind of similar. Well, all right.
Get the shaving products that always deliver. Get Harry's. Normally, their trial set is $13, but right now you can get it for just $3 at harrys.com. That's our exclusive link, harrys.com for a $3 trial set. harrys.com. God bless. You've got procrastination and messiness, which just seems like kind of similar. Well, all right.
So what's the downside of messiness? Because I'm pretty messy, but I don't lose anything for the most part. I don't. And I'm a bit of a procrastinator, but everything's been turned in on time, ultimately.
So what's the downside of messiness? Because I'm pretty messy, but I don't lose anything for the most part. I don't. And I'm a bit of a procrastinator, but everything's been turned in on time, ultimately.
You're not doing it against them. This is actually one of my issues with my girlfriend, which is the things that I am, I was before I met you. This isn't at you. I'm just this. I'm not doing it to spite you. I'm just doing it.
You're not doing it against them. This is actually one of my issues with my girlfriend, which is the things that I am, I was before I met you. This isn't at you. I'm just this. I'm not doing it to spite you. I'm just doing it.
I used to yell at a girlfriend that she seemed to be afraid that a group of gay jurors was going to come and judge our interior.
I used to yell at a girlfriend that she seemed to be afraid that a group of gay jurors was going to come and judge our interior.
Like they're never coming. Right. They're not coming.
Like they're never coming. Right. They're not coming.
I guess that's bad. But the church thinks you're all sinners.
I guess that's bad. But the church thinks you're all sinners.
Women are affected by spaces. They anthropomorphize spaces, I believe. I really believe that. I really believe that women interpret physical spaces as they interpret it as a person.
Women are affected by spaces. They anthropomorphize spaces, I believe. I really believe that. I really believe that women interpret physical spaces as they interpret it as a person.
yeah that's interesting and i just don't as a guy i don't see it after about a week i just see like the couch right and the bed and the tv yeah and the nightstand it's very stereotypical but like i genuinely believe that yeah uh because they're very affected by it and i just don't i guess if i'm like if i stay at like a crappy motel i am affected by that me too but i think that has to do with safety someone else's stuff too yeah
yeah that's interesting and i just don't as a guy i don't see it after about a week i just see like the couch right and the bed and the tv yeah and the nightstand it's very stereotypical but like i genuinely believe that yeah uh because they're very affected by it and i just don't i guess if i'm like if i stay at like a crappy motel i am affected by that me too but i think that has to do with safety someone else's stuff too yeah
They don't even want to get it on.
They don't even want to get it on.
Yeah, it's been a lot of people's stuff and a lot of people.
Yeah, it's been a lot of people's stuff and a lot of people.
And they haven't treated well. Exactly. And it's also dangerous. Right. Like where you can hear the street or you can hear the people in the hallway or you can hear, like really it's not, it doesn't feel very safe. Like that I'm definitely affected by.
And they haven't treated well. Exactly. And it's also dangerous. Right. Like where you can hear the street or you can hear the people in the hallway or you can hear, like really it's not, it doesn't feel very safe. Like that I'm definitely affected by.
Yes. It's funny, you just did Carlin and you did a bit of a black scent.
Yes. It's funny, you just did Carlin and you did a bit of a black scent.
Yeah, all right, so I'm forgiving you for messiness and procrastination.
Yeah, all right, so I'm forgiving you for messiness and procrastination.
All right, I wanna get back to the companionship thing. So you hadn't really dated, you didn't have, did you have girlfriends?
All right, I wanna get back to the companionship thing. So you hadn't really dated, you didn't have, did you have girlfriends?
Well, let's play it in front of an audience.
Well, let's play it in front of an audience.
Like, oh, personal meaning. Larry, you got to finish this in a week.
Like, oh, personal meaning. Larry, you got to finish this in a week.
Thank you for using the N-word. It's been a while. I didn't know if Chappelle had been around. No, I haven't seen him. But that is with a personal being like meet me at 7 or so-and-so wants it by Friday.
Thank you for using the N-word. It's been a while. I didn't know if Chappelle had been around. No, I haven't seen him. But that is with a personal being like meet me at 7 or so-and-so wants it by Friday.
And that's kind of where the Catholic thing comes in. I find, speaking of Chappelle, we had real different approaches to punctuality. Oh, interesting. Where it was like, dude, we have to write. We don't have... I know what's... We've agreed to do 13 of these in 13 weeks. If we don't start writing now... When we were writing Half-Baked...
And that's kind of where the Catholic thing comes in. I find, speaking of Chappelle, we had real different approaches to punctuality. Oh, interesting. Where it was like, dude, we have to write. We don't have... I know what's... We've agreed to do 13 of these in 13 weeks. If we don't start writing now... When we were writing Half-Baked...
He actually said like a year later, we were writing Half Baked. We had to turn in the next day and we started watching Hollywood Shuffle. It was on cable. And I was like, if we don't start now, we're never. And he literally was a year later. He was like, you were absolutely right. We'd still be watching Hollywood Shuffle if you hadn't just turned the television off.
He actually said like a year later, we were writing Half Baked. We had to turn in the next day and we started watching Hollywood Shuffle. It was on cable. And I was like, if we don't start now, we're never. And he literally was a year later. He was like, you were absolutely right. We'd still be watching Hollywood Shuffle if you hadn't just turned the television off.
Yeah, I just think it's whereas he couldn't, even that didn't mean that much to him.
Yeah, I just think it's whereas he couldn't, even that didn't mean that much to him.
It's just, it was, it's... it's just like a life ethos kind of like seeing the world where it's like, it'll just, it's like, you know, we'll go on stage late, go on at one in the morning. Cause like, I don't know when I felt like not thinking like people have jobs and it just, it's, I find it, it is useful. Yeah. He is a better writer than me. Do you know what I mean?
It's just, it was, it's... it's just like a life ethos kind of like seeing the world where it's like, it'll just, it's like, you know, we'll go on stage late, go on at one in the morning. Cause like, I don't know when I felt like not thinking like people have jobs and it just, it's, I find it, it is useful. Yeah. He is a better writer than me. Do you know what I mean?
Like he is more talented than me. And I don't know if that has to do with, well, it's a different talent. It, it's, it's, He's better at, I mean, I guess it's different, but I would say he can throw the ball faster than me. I can throw the ball fast, but he can throw the ball like, okay. I know what you mean. And I wonder if... that governor governs the comedy as well.
Like he is more talented than me. And I don't know if that has to do with, well, it's a different talent. It, it's, it's, He's better at, I mean, I guess it's different, but I would say he can throw the ball faster than me. I can throw the ball fast, but he can throw the ball like, okay. I know what you mean. And I wonder if... that governor governs the comedy as well.
Meaning like where I think rationally, I think rationally across the board, and it's kind of the basis of my act and basis of things I've written, but it's like he thinks it's all nonlinear. I'm like very linear in a very ideally entertaining way. And he is all nonlinear, including time. Yeah. Just everything.
Meaning like where I think rationally, I think rationally across the board, and it's kind of the basis of my act and basis of things I've written, but it's like he thinks it's all nonlinear. I'm like very linear in a very ideally entertaining way. And he is all nonlinear, including time. Yeah. Just everything.
And it's like... And part of it is you just get shit when you get it. Yeah. But it is unique when you're in a system where it has to get done.
And it's like... And part of it is you just get shit when you get it. Yeah. But it is unique when you're in a system where it has to get done.
Yes. I can literally say factual setup. Yeah. You know, like twist.
Yes. I can literally say factual setup. Yeah. You know, like twist.
Yeah. Having written with him for years, I couldn't tell you how his system works. Yeah.
Yeah. Having written with him for years, I couldn't tell you how his system works. Yeah.
Or that happens organically? I think that happens.
Or that happens organically? I think that happens.
Not really. If I have, it's like, it's that thing. Yeah. You know what I mean?
Not really. If I have, it's like, it's that thing. Yeah. You know what I mean?
Absolutely. You're giving examples. Here's another example.
Absolutely. You're giving examples. Here's another example.
And I'm sure, yeah, and you can as well.
And I'm sure, yeah, and you can as well.
i don't i can do both yeah i'm but i could explain i guess i could explain my system like my voice but i was just remember better at empath oh well that's no you have that written down he has written down as a block empath sociopath what does that mean
i don't i can do both yeah i'm but i could explain i guess i could explain my system like my voice but i was just remember better at empath oh well that's no you have that written down he has written down as a block empath sociopath what does that mean
So you say that as a person who felt like you couldn't feel your own, you weren't allowed to feel your own feelings. Correct.
So you say that as a person who felt like you couldn't feel your own, you weren't allowed to feel your own feelings. Correct.
And she still has hers. Yeah, she still has hers.
And she still has hers. Yeah, she still has hers.
Yeah, it seems like something someone in my mother's neighborhood had.
Yeah, it seems like something someone in my mother's neighborhood had.
Did hers dissipate at all? No. She just had the same amount and you also had it.
Did hers dissipate at all? No. She just had the same amount and you also had it.
And you were like, we gotta get this baby going.
And you were like, we gotta get this baby going.
Well, they say about autism that you model other people's emotions, right?
Well, they say about autism that you model other people's emotions, right?
No, it's funny. No, I know what you're, I know exactly what you're saying.
No, it's funny. No, I know what you're, I know exactly what you're saying.
And then how did you end up, how long did you date the woman who became your wife?
And then how did you end up, how long did you date the woman who became your wife?
Well, then you could tell yourself grief's nonlinear. I mean, you don't know when it could hit you, and it never hits you.
Well, then you could tell yourself grief's nonlinear. I mean, you don't know when it could hit you, and it never hits you.
It's okay to experience the lack of or it's okay to experience the actual grief.
It's okay to experience the lack of or it's okay to experience the actual grief.
Anger does for me, but that's about the list. Yeah. But I wonder if, you know, I did that joke about people that are good at something are optimized for that thing and pretty much nothing else, right? You ever play a video game where you make the character and you have like 100 points and you gotta distribute it between like dexterity and marksmanship and speed? That's what God does.
Anger does for me, but that's about the list. Yeah. But I wonder if, you know, I did that joke about people that are good at something are optimized for that thing and pretty much nothing else, right? You ever play a video game where you make the character and you have like 100 points and you gotta distribute it between like dexterity and marksmanship and speed? That's what God does.
And sometimes he fucks up. We have a lot of analytical. Yeah. and a lot of pattern recognition, a lot of pattern recognition, and we don't get hyper, you know, emotional about other stuff. I think it's, I think, I understand that it's called sociopathy, I understand that.
And sometimes he fucks up. We have a lot of analytical. Yeah. and a lot of pattern recognition, a lot of pattern recognition, and we don't get hyper, you know, emotional about other stuff. I think it's, I think, I understand that it's called sociopathy, I understand that.
No, of course, but I'm saying like, I think if you don't kill anybody,
No, of course, but I'm saying like, I think if you don't kill anybody,
Yeah, and they lose some of them and they're like, eh.
Yeah, and they lose some of them and they're like, eh.
But my point, you made my point, which is like, don't we need those people? Thousand percent. Should a surgeon do, should a surgeon who's a sociopath.
But my point, you made my point, which is like, don't we need those people? Thousand percent. Should a surgeon do, should a surgeon who's a sociopath.
It's a joke I did about like, I don't want certain people to have a good work-life balance. I just don't.
It's a joke I did about like, I don't want certain people to have a good work-life balance. I just don't.
Should a surgeon, modern, the modern.
Should a surgeon, modern, the modern.
should a modern the the modern world would tell a surgeon that he needs to get in touch with his family his or her feelings does he or she you do not want to do that yeah yeah and so people that date doctors sometimes that is such an ass I'm like well what's his name I'd like to yeah no that's absolutely right like yeah that's what you want
should a modern the the modern world would tell a surgeon that he needs to get in touch with his family his or her feelings does he or she you do not want to do that yeah yeah and so people that date doctors sometimes that is such an ass I'm like well what's his name I'd like to yeah no that's absolutely right like yeah that's what you want
Yeah, so I would never be so bold as to say that you and I are like surgeons or that comedians are like, or whatever. Now, having said that, there's a lot more surgeons than good comedians.
Yeah, so I would never be so bold as to say that you and I are like surgeons or that comedians are like, or whatever. Now, having said that, there's a lot more surgeons than good comedians.
I would argue that getting emotional is going to probably hinder the pattern recognition joke process. I mean, it can help, but I would say 70-30 it hurts. It hurts 70% of the time, it helps 30% of the time.
I would argue that getting emotional is going to probably hinder the pattern recognition joke process. I mean, it can help, but I would say 70-30 it hurts. It hurts 70% of the time, it helps 30% of the time.
would agree i'm probably better to be dispassionate about that and then put the emotion in afterwards and this is another thing yeah that yeah you do the fake treacly setup um but there this is the thing that i actually sort of argue not even arguing my girlfriend but this is the thing where i defend myself where i'm like i'm not gonna be that quick to empathy about me i'll be quick to empathy about
would agree i'm probably better to be dispassionate about that and then put the emotion in afterwards and this is another thing yeah that yeah you do the fake treacly setup um but there this is the thing that i actually sort of argue not even arguing my girlfriend but this is the thing where i defend myself where i'm like i'm not gonna be that quick to empathy about me i'll be quick to empathy about
other problems in your life, I really, like genuine, but if you criticize me, my first instinct is not going to be empathetic about my behavior to you, like it's not, I don't, I was like, I don't have the capacity, but I have other capacities, and is that, and what I'm, what I would like, I'm exonerating you from your sociopath. Thank you.
other problems in your life, I really, like genuine, but if you criticize me, my first instinct is not going to be empathetic about my behavior to you, like it's not, I don't, I was like, I don't have the capacity, but I have other capacities, and is that, and what I'm, what I would like, I'm exonerating you from your sociopath. Thank you.
They're called women. Go ahead. See how I'm letting you say that? I let you have surgery?
They're called women. Go ahead. See how I'm letting you say that? I let you have surgery?
What do you feel about the talk in the black community? Or if you don't instill some sort of physical harm into your child, the police eventually will? What do you mean? Meaning there's a thing of black parents whipping their children or get the switch or some sort of physical harm.
What do you feel about the talk in the black community? Or if you don't instill some sort of physical harm into your child, the police eventually will? What do you mean? Meaning there's a thing of black parents whipping their children or get the switch or some sort of physical harm.
And I'd always heard it explained of like, well, if they don't, the idea is if the parents don't do it, eventually white society finally, eventually will.
And I'd always heard it explained of like, well, if they don't, the idea is if the parents don't do it, eventually white society finally, eventually will.
They were supposed to beat any child they saw getting out alive.
They were supposed to beat any child they saw getting out alive.
I hope he talked about it in therapy and then you siphoned it.
I hope he talked about it in therapy and then you siphoned it.
That's how they communicated, through physical violence. Yeah, and they were actually better than their parents. They were less violent than their parents.
That's how they communicated, through physical violence. Yeah, and they were actually better than their parents. They were less violent than their parents.
Somehow. You have here liking to be alone.
Somehow. You have here liking to be alone.
It's another one of those things of like this isn't against you. Yeah, I know. But it is. They feel that it is.
It's another one of those things of like this isn't against you. Yeah, I know. But it is. They feel that it is.
Yeah, I guess I just don't believe that anyone has an unlimited appetite for me or anyone else.
Yeah, I guess I just don't believe that anyone has an unlimited appetite for me or anyone else.
Yeah, I sleep eight hours a day just to get away from it.
Yeah, I sleep eight hours a day just to get away from it.
Yeah, to take a break. Exactly, exactly. I actually believe that's what drugs are for a lot of people. It's like, get me out of this consciousness for five hours. I just don't want to...
Yeah, to take a break. Exactly, exactly. I actually believe that's what drugs are for a lot of people. It's like, get me out of this consciousness for five hours. I just don't want to...
be the same thoughts and the same patterns just like i'll risk death yeah i'm totally willing to risk death to just get out of this non this this incessant nonsense yeah for me it's different for me it's it's kind of the inverse of that you know notice i say inverse instead of opposite yeah you're a smart guy throw those people out there uh it's more to get away from that
be the same thoughts and the same patterns just like i'll risk death yeah i'm totally willing to risk death to just get out of this non this this incessant nonsense yeah for me it's different for me it's it's kind of the inverse of that you know notice i say inverse instead of opposite yeah you're a smart guy throw those people out there uh it's more to get away from that
Get away from other people's nonsense. Absolutely. Of course.
Get away from other people's nonsense. Absolutely. Of course.
It goes to the empath sociopath thing is like I am as much of a curmudgeon as I may seem or whatever. I'm very susceptible to other people's energy.
It goes to the empath sociopath thing is like I am as much of a curmudgeon as I may seem or whatever. I'm very susceptible to other people's energy.
Like I will take on I worry that I'm not behaving well for them.
Like I will take on I worry that I'm not behaving well for them.
Am I not holding up my end of some bargain I don't know about.
Am I not holding up my end of some bargain I don't know about.
And I need to in order to shut that off. I just need to get away from people. Yeah.
And I need to in order to shut that off. I just need to get away from people. Yeah.
Most of the time when there's a group of people, I'm just worried I'm not... It feels like a wedding where you're like, okay, I got to go. What's the right social situation for you? Because I think mine is one-on-one.
Most of the time when there's a group of people, I'm just worried I'm not... It feels like a wedding where you're like, okay, I got to go. What's the right social situation for you? Because I think mine is one-on-one.
Yeah. Yeah, but I guess people would say that that's antisocial or, but I, it's like the good news of COVID was introvert got a lot of shine.
Yeah. Yeah, but I guess people would say that that's antisocial or, but I, it's like the good news of COVID was introvert got a lot of shine.
Ezra Klein had a very good observation recently about the difference between the right and the left.
Ezra Klein had a very good observation recently about the difference between the right and the left.
Yeah, I heard that. It's either like groups of people making rules or one strong man.
Yeah, I heard that. It's either like groups of people making rules or one strong man.
You have health written down here.
You have health written down here.
Yeah, it's good, but you wish there was a better way. Exactly. And unfortunately, it's diet and exercise, and you ain't doing that.
Yeah, it's good, but you wish there was a better way. Exactly. And unfortunately, it's diet and exercise, and you ain't doing that.
Well, yeah, is it possible to have accountability there?
Well, yeah, is it possible to have accountability there?
I'm pretty good with it. And I think it's Catholic. Yeah. I'm pretty good with like, what are the rules? Okay. Yeah. And I only eat sugar one day a week.
I'm pretty good with it. And I think it's Catholic. Yeah. I'm pretty good with like, what are the rules? Okay. Yeah. And I only eat sugar one day a week.
yeah and i go back and forth on that like i haven't had sugar for a while and it feels so much better but then i'll go through months where i was like all right i'll just have this yeah i need a bowl of cheerios right now yeah that's okay i know and i yeah i won't give i'm i'm guilt-ridden enough to just be like stop you have to stop yeah but it is a unique like i quit smoking culture like i can just do i'm vegan i'm vegan vegetarian but mostly my girlfriend knows that you're vegan yeah so yeah she thought that was good vegetarian though yeah there you go yeah
yeah and i go back and forth on that like i haven't had sugar for a while and it feels so much better but then i'll go through months where i was like all right i'll just have this yeah i need a bowl of cheerios right now yeah that's okay i know and i yeah i won't give i'm i'm guilt-ridden enough to just be like stop you have to stop yeah but it is a unique like i quit smoking culture like i can just do i'm vegan i'm vegan vegetarian but mostly my girlfriend knows that you're vegan yeah so yeah she thought that was good vegetarian though yeah there you go yeah
She's weak. No, she's Indian, actually.
She's weak. No, she's Indian, actually.
Yeah, they started it. You're a baby vegan. Yeah. Okay, well, I guess my question is how... My final question maybe is how has your life been? How do you gauge it and did it go well and are you pleased with it? Are you happy? Or is happiness even a thing to you?
Yeah, they started it. You're a baby vegan. Yeah. Okay, well, I guess my question is how... My final question maybe is how has your life been? How do you gauge it and did it go well and are you pleased with it? Are you happy? Or is happiness even a thing to you?
You know, I thought about what you said, which is like, don't be sad that it, Yeah. It's over. Be glad that it happened or whatever. And it's so fucking corny. Yeah. And yet that's your that's helped you with your brother dying.
You know, I thought about what you said, which is like, don't be sad that it, Yeah. It's over. Be glad that it happened or whatever. And it's so fucking corny. Yeah. And yet that's your that's helped you with your brother dying.
What is the – that makes you sad. What is the – when you say you come from gratitude, what does it feel like or what does it sound like within you? And do you know what I mean? Like, what do you – what is it – What do you remind yourself of? I literally have a – I talk about it all the time. I have a journal checklist where I write down – basically, like, coach myself a few times a day.
What is the – that makes you sad. What is the – when you say you come from gratitude, what does it feel like or what does it sound like within you? And do you know what I mean? Like, what do you – what is it – What do you remind yourself of? I literally have a – I talk about it all the time. I have a journal checklist where I write down – basically, like, coach myself a few times a day.
And one of the big things is, like, I am lucky beyond measure. Mm-hmm.
And one of the big things is, like, I am lucky beyond measure. Mm-hmm.
It's a good way. It's also a great way to gauge other people's what they say and what they're doing.
It's a good way. It's also a great way to gauge other people's what they say and what they're doing.
And does that mean... So you would say it's telling someone you're grateful. I wouldn't consider that an action, but it's... It is. Okay.
And does that mean... So you would say it's telling someone you're grateful. I wouldn't consider that an action, but it's... It is. Okay.
I guess because it's words, I'm like, well, it still feels like words, but I guess. But you're giving this to somebody else.
I guess because it's words, I'm like, well, it still feels like words, but I guess. But you're giving this to somebody else.
That's a great starting point. I mean, I wish I'd known that sooner in life.
That's a great starting point. I mean, I wish I'd known that sooner in life.
I know. My mom used to say that, and it was so aggravating. And then once you choose it a few times, you're like, I can't believe I just chose it. I know. It works. It's so...
I know. My mom used to say that, and it was so aggravating. And then once you choose it a few times, you're like, I can't believe I just chose it. I know. It works. It's so...
so disappointing it's disappointing in a way because you want to feel sorry for yourself right it's like no you can just choose to be in a good mood yeah you can and it it'll stick it's so stupid it's true and if you choose to be in a bad mood you're affecting other people too so you're saying i want you to be in a bad mood yeah well that that's the thing i write in my journal it's like don't inflict your mood on people yeah including yourself no it's true
so disappointing it's disappointing in a way because you want to feel sorry for yourself right it's like no you can just choose to be in a good mood yeah you can and it it'll stick it's so stupid it's true and if you choose to be in a bad mood you're affecting other people too so you're saying i want you to be in a bad mood yeah well that that's the thing i write in my journal it's like don't inflict your mood on people yeah including yourself no it's true
Because your body will believe it. Whatever you tell your body, it's going to believe it. It's a Nate Bargatze joke about how dumb our brains are.
Because your body will believe it. Whatever you tell your body, it's going to believe it. It's a Nate Bargatze joke about how dumb our brains are.
He's very funny. He's great. So you've had a great life and it's going pretty great.
He's very funny. He's great. So you've had a great life and it's going pretty great.
So would you just sort of go numb in situations where you should have been angry?
So would you just sort of go numb in situations where you should have been angry?
Larry Wilmore is what I'm trying to say. Larry Wilmore is here and I'm happy to have him. You have your blocks, which I'm happy you cooperated. You gave them to me. You've seen the block special. You understand what it's about. A lot of people, a lot of people big time me. They won't give me blocks. Really?
Larry Wilmore is what I'm trying to say. Larry Wilmore is here and I'm happy to have him. You have your blocks, which I'm happy you cooperated. You gave them to me. You've seen the block special. You understand what it's about. A lot of people, a lot of people big time me. They won't give me blocks. Really?
Did you grow up Christian or anything? I was Catholic. Yeah, I mean, I think that's a big part of it. Sacrificial. Yeah, I really do. I was going to Google yesterday, am I my brother's keeper? Yeah. The Bible says about I am right. You absolutely are. Because I find myself being sort of nosy. Right. And kind of like help trying to help. Right. And then people don't really like it.
Did you grow up Christian or anything? I was Catholic. Yeah, I mean, I think that's a big part of it. Sacrificial. Yeah, I really do. I was going to Google yesterday, am I my brother's keeper? Yeah. The Bible says about I am right. You absolutely are. Because I find myself being sort of nosy. Right. And kind of like help trying to help. Right. And then people don't really like it.
And I don't think it's helpful long term maybe.
And I don't think it's helpful long term maybe.
That's interesting. So you didn't really know how to have emotions. All right, now the question is like, now would you be autistic?
That's interesting. So you didn't really know how to have emotions. All right, now the question is like, now would you be autistic?
I like how everyone around you is on the spectrum except you. Well, I said I might be.
I like how everyone around you is on the spectrum except you. Well, I said I might be.
But they definitely are? That's your diagnosis?
But they definitely are? That's your diagnosis?
I think a lot of them are. I'm on the spectrum. I took the test. I'm the lowest rung, but I'm on it.
I think a lot of them are. I'm on the spectrum. I took the test. I'm the lowest rung, but I'm on it.
Well, they just don't want to. It seems like homeworking, but it makes it more interesting.
Well, they just don't want to. It seems like homeworking, but it makes it more interesting.
What were your buttons? Or without you reacting. I think that's another big one. It's like, what were your buttons? Or feeling threatened. Right.
What were your buttons? Or without you reacting. I think that's another big one. It's like, what were your buttons? Or feeling threatened. Right.
Like you're falling short in that arena. So was it like you should plan dates, you should be more considerate, you should be.
Like you're falling short in that arena. So was it like you should plan dates, you should be more considerate, you should be.
No, just like Seth Meyers did. I mean, like a good friend. I knew his blocks anyway, but it was like he just didn't do the homework. Yeah, yeah, yeah. A guy who makes everyone do a pre-interview for his show. It's different when he's the guest, Larry. Anyhow, we're not here to slam the...
No, just like Seth Meyers did. I mean, like a good friend. I knew his blocks anyway, but it was like he just didn't do the homework. Yeah, yeah, yeah. A guy who makes everyone do a pre-interview for his show. It's different when he's the guest, Larry. Anyhow, we're not here to slam the...
hi guys it's neil brennan on the blocks podcast my guest today um he's got one testicle so right there get right into it yeah right there uh he was host of the tom green show freddie got fingered road trip where they confused austin and boston
hi guys it's neil brennan on the blocks podcast my guest today um he's got one testicle so right there get right into it yeah right there uh he was host of the tom green show freddie got fingered road trip where they confused austin and boston
So did Ray Romano brought his own writers. They wrote that sweet, sassy, molassy sketch that ESPN, Dave brought me. You know, if you, if you have a thing, sometimes you're, they don't mind.
So did Ray Romano brought his own writers. They wrote that sweet, sassy, molassy sketch that ESPN, Dave brought me. You know, if you, if you have a thing, sometimes you're, they don't mind.
But was it arrogance? I mean, that's these this sounds like fear. And even the thing of doing things your way. Anything original can sometimes be from a place of, like, I can't do it normal. I don't have that skill set. Like, I don't think Andy Kaufman would have been a good comic.
But was it arrogance? I mean, that's these this sounds like fear. And even the thing of doing things your way. Anything original can sometimes be from a place of, like, I can't do it normal. I don't have that skill set. Like, I don't think Andy Kaufman would have been a good comic.
But yet, like, Seinfeld told me on this podcast, like, I went to a comedy club the first time to see Andy Kaufman. Yeah. You wouldn't believe, like, you were inspired by Andy Kaufman? Right, right. Most square comedian that, you know what I mean? Like, most analytical. Jerry's incredible, but, like, he's fairly what you'd call conventional. It's done incredibly well.
But yet, like, Seinfeld told me on this podcast, like, I went to a comedy club the first time to see Andy Kaufman. Yeah. You wouldn't believe, like, you were inspired by Andy Kaufman? Right, right. Most square comedian that, you know what I mean? Like, most analytical. Jerry's incredible, but, like, he's fairly what you'd call conventional. It's done incredibly well.
So I'm not mad at the idea that you have to do things your way. Because I don't know, who knows if you'd be as good in a sketch as Will Ferrell and Chris Kattan and Molly Shannon.
So I'm not mad at the idea that you have to do things your way. Because I don't know, who knows if you'd be as good in a sketch as Will Ferrell and Chris Kattan and Molly Shannon.
Guys, hi, I'm comedian Neil Brennan. And you know what's funny to me? You want to know what's a joke? The price some companies charge for razors. But Harry's prices are no joke. They send the best quality razors right to your door for a fraction of the price of the big brands. And right now you can get a $10 trial set for just $5 at harrys.com slash N-E-A-L. H-A-R-R-Y-S. Personal endorsement.
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Okay. Well, used it today. Can't really see my neck.
Okay. Well, used it today. Can't really see my neck.
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great but I you know I keep a little stubble and then I and then I'll straight razor this not straight razor but like you know Harry's razor this part it's good razor feels like you're holding something doesn't feel plastic doesn't feel like you could snap it in half with two fingers it's sharp doesn't nick doesn't cut it's pretty much my what I shave with I've tried the of course the body wash and the hair gel both excellent it's a good damn razor
Look, they're German-engineered blades made in their own factory that stay sharp longer. They have customizable delivery options for scheduled refills as low as $2, half of what you pay for other big brands. And you get a five-blade razor, weighted handle, foaming shave gel, and travel cover for just $5 at harrys.com slash NEAL. It's not just razors, guys. They got body washes.
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They got deodorants. They got hair stuff. They got a whole panoply of grooming stuff. I know how you like to groom. They had the highest customer satisfaction in the shaving industry. They got a no-risk trial. Don't like your shave? No worries. It's on them. Here's the call to action. Get the shaving products that always deliver. Get Harry's.
They got deodorants. They got hair stuff. They got a whole panoply of grooming stuff. I know how you like to groom. They had the highest customer satisfaction in the shaving industry. They got a no-risk trial. Don't like your shave? No worries. It's on them. Here's the call to action. Get the shaving products that always deliver. Get Harry's.
Normally their trial set is $10, but right now you can get it for just $5 at harrys.com slash NEAL. That's our exclusive link, harrys.com slash NEAL for a $5 trial set. This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Guys, I do a podcast called Blocks that you're watching right now. And all we do is talk about pretty much mental health. I'm nosy and I don't respect boundaries.
Normally their trial set is $10, but right now you can get it for just $5 at harrys.com slash NEAL. That's our exclusive link, harrys.com slash NEAL for a $5 trial set. This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Guys, I do a podcast called Blocks that you're watching right now. And all we do is talk about pretty much mental health. I'm nosy and I don't respect boundaries.
Yeah, and it was helpful in terms of, like, everybody talks about awareness and get checked yourself and how to diagnose, but, like... it actually probably demonstrably saved thousands of lives.
Yeah, and it was helpful in terms of, like, everybody talks about awareness and get checked yourself and how to diagnose, but, like... it actually probably demonstrably saved thousands of lives.
And I ask people overly personal questions. But it works as a podcast. And by the way, we almost always mention therapy having helped them. Mental health awareness is growing, but there's still progress to be made. We've got a long way to go. 26% of Americans who participated in a recent survey said they have avoided seeking mental health support due to fear of judgment.
And I ask people overly personal questions. But it works as a podcast. And by the way, we almost always mention therapy having helped them. Mental health awareness is growing, but there's still progress to be made. We've got a long way to go. 26% of Americans who participated in a recent survey said they have avoided seeking mental health support due to fear of judgment.
It's like they're all wearing leather jackets and like, what are you, some kind of... It's Mental Health Awareness Month, so let's encourage everyone to take care of their well-being and break the stigma. The world is better when people are healthy and happy. Look, I went to therapy for probably eight years in my 20s and 30s. Went for five, six, seven in my 40s. I've been going to therapy.
It's like they're all wearing leather jackets and like, what are you, some kind of... It's Mental Health Awareness Month, so let's encourage everyone to take care of their well-being and break the stigma. The world is better when people are healthy and happy. Look, I went to therapy for probably eight years in my 20s and 30s. Went for five, six, seven in my 40s. I've been going to therapy.
It changed who I am as a person. It truly did. Boundaries, what to ask for, what not to ask for, what I allowed people to do, what I believed about myself.
It changed who I am as a person. It truly did. Boundaries, what to ask for, what not to ask for, what I allowed people to do, what I believed about myself.
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BetterHelp is fully online, making therapy affordable and convenient, serving over 5 million people worldwide. You can easily switch therapists anytime at no extra cost. Here's the call to action. We're all better with help. Visit BetterHelp.com to get 10% off your first month. That's BetterHelp.com. You gotta do it.
When you think about that time or your entire career, is it, have you ever thought like, did you ever get like, you know, I'm a kind of a visionary. Have you ever entertained that part of like, you're a, you're forward, you know, like you're the, you're the shit, you're incredible.
When you think about that time or your entire career, is it, have you ever thought like, did you ever get like, you know, I'm a kind of a visionary. Have you ever entertained that part of like, you're a, you're forward, you know, like you're the, you're the shit, you're incredible.
No, I'm really curious as to what it was like.
No, I'm really curious as to what it was like.
Because from the outside in, I had no idea because I didn't know anyone who knew you. And it was like, I don't know what's happening here.
Because from the outside in, I had no idea because I didn't know anyone who knew you. And it was like, I don't know what's happening here.
Did you think I was going to grill you because I didn't respect you?
Did you think I was going to grill you because I didn't respect you?
You're going to razz me a bit. No, no, no, I'm unaware of my edging. I really am. But no, no, no, I want to. Okay, good. I'm just curious.
You're going to razz me a bit. No, no, no, I'm unaware of my edging. I really am. But no, no, no, I want to. Okay, good. I'm just curious.
So you had a sampler, and you were just sort of trying to.
So you had a sampler, and you were just sort of trying to.
The songs were not bad. Like the songs in the doc, I wasn't like, well, I don't like white rappers generally. Yeah, yeah. But it wasn't bad.
The songs were not bad. Like the songs in the doc, I wasn't like, well, I don't like white rappers generally. Yeah, yeah. But it wasn't bad.
It's funny, you can tell them. You can probably tell immediately what they're going to, like, this guy might be a ball cancer guy.
It's funny, you can tell them. You can probably tell immediately what they're going to, like, this guy might be a ball cancer guy.
It straight up worked. Yeah. Then what did you think? I need to protect this level of success. Did you ever think I'm the shit? I was right about me. Fuck everybody who didn't believe in me. Were there any of those negative fame thoughts?
It straight up worked. Yeah. Then what did you think? I need to protect this level of success. Did you ever think I'm the shit? I was right about me. Fuck everybody who didn't believe in me. Were there any of those negative fame thoughts?
Would you have... I say this legitimately. You should write it. It would be an interesting exercise. It'd be interesting to read because it is like what's going to happen or what may happen. My question is if somebody had told you that. hey, here's what you're going through, and here's what, like, could you have helped Johnny Knoxville?
Would you have... I say this legitimately. You should write it. It would be an interesting exercise. It'd be interesting to read because it is like what's going to happen or what may happen. My question is if somebody had told you that. hey, here's what you're going through, and here's what, like, could you have helped Johnny Knoxville?
Could you have helped the, and not like those guys, I mean, it seems like everybody had.
Could you have helped the, and not like those guys, I mean, it seems like everybody had.
It's still legitimate. My question is, my question is, are you a little shell-shocked Yeah.
It's still legitimate. My question is, my question is, are you a little shell-shocked Yeah.
Absolutely. When I see you, you seem shell-shocked. You seem like – and I don't know what you were like before. It really was like – not the dog that caught the car or something, but you did. You did it correctly. And without thinking, is there a potential downside to this? Is there a potential second step?
Absolutely. When I see you, you seem shell-shocked. You seem like – and I don't know what you were like before. It really was like – not the dog that caught the car or something, but you did. You did it correctly. And without thinking, is there a potential downside to this? Is there a potential second step?
What do people think it is? Just like, oh, my ball's being weird.
What do people think it is? Just like, oh, my ball's being weird.
That truly was beyond your wildest dream.
That truly was beyond your wildest dream.
What's the downside of the of the being getting that famous that quickly?
What's the downside of the of the being getting that famous that quickly?
and uh then it was and the pepsi commercial and the pepsi commercials yeah yeah yeah today we're going to do a taste test between pepsi one and the goldfish i mean i'm not complaining about it but it wasn't yeah it was sort of an interesting adjustment for sure yeah i'm not even saying like what are you poor thing tell i'm literally like hey man what was that like in a it's like watching a it's like watching a good car crash yeah
and uh then it was and the pepsi commercial and the pepsi commercials yeah yeah yeah today we're going to do a taste test between pepsi one and the goldfish i mean i'm not complaining about it but it wasn't yeah it was sort of an interesting adjustment for sure yeah i'm not even saying like what are you poor thing tell i'm literally like hey man what was that like in a it's like watching a it's like watching a good car crash yeah
Someone referred to it as a catastrophic success. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Where you just go like, boy, that looks, that's pretty extreme. And did you have anybody share it with? Was there any? It was so unique. That's the thing about it. It looks so, culturally, it was so unique. It was like, it wasn't like a boy band because there was no other boys in it. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Someone referred to it as a catastrophic success. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Where you just go like, boy, that looks, that's pretty extreme. And did you have anybody share it with? Was there any? It was so unique. That's the thing about it. It looks so, culturally, it was so unique. It was like, it wasn't like a boy band because there was no other boys in it. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
That was a big plot twist. Absolutely. Yeah. And now he's got a farm. He's got a he's got a document on Amazon, which I watched not knowing he was coming. And it's very exciting. Tom Green is here. Tom Green. Tom Green.
That was a big plot twist. Absolutely. Yeah. And now he's got a farm. He's got a he's got a document on Amazon, which I watched not knowing he was coming. And it's very exciting. Tom Green is here. Tom Green. Tom Green.
you know I want to hear more about what it was like tell me more about what it was like because I don't because I know you're you're shell-shocked yeah but I want to know you're not telling me enough about for my satisfaction okay well what it was like like what it was like to be you wake up in 1999 2000 2001 like you're in a movie you did it's like a montage
you know I want to hear more about what it was like tell me more about what it was like because I don't because I know you're you're shell-shocked yeah but I want to know you're not telling me enough about for my satisfaction okay well what it was like like what it was like to be you wake up in 1999 2000 2001 like you're in a movie you did it's like a montage
Did you do it because... Because I want to talk about the relationship with Drew as well. Because a part of me thinks like when you're famous like that, you go like, well, I should get a famous bride because that's kind of what you do.
Did you do it because... Because I want to talk about the relationship with Drew as well. Because a part of me thinks like when you're famous like that, you go like, well, I should get a famous bride because that's kind of what you do.
Was it stressful? Like, was having the show stressful and then getting these opportunities, were you a bit like, because you have anxiety as one of your blocks. This sounds... And it's again, it's good anxiety, but it's still anxiety.
Was it stressful? Like, was having the show stressful and then getting these opportunities, were you a bit like, because you have anxiety as one of your blocks. This sounds... And it's again, it's good anxiety, but it's still anxiety.
There was a lot of stuff in the documentary that I was surprised by or that I guess I just didn't know. One of them was that you were a white rapper. Yes, yes, yes, yeah.
There was a lot of stuff in the documentary that I was surprised by or that I guess I just didn't know. One of them was that you were a white rapper. Yes, yes, yes, yeah.
Yeah, what was that like? Did it affect personal relationships?
Yeah, what was that like? Did it affect personal relationships?
Yeah, but I'm not, again, I'm not, again, this show is first world problem. And by the way, we live in the first world, so we're not, no one's had starvation as a block as of yet, so... So yeah, I'm just more curious as to what it's like when, walk people through that, what you just said quickly about.
Yeah, but I'm not, again, I'm not, again, this show is first world problem. And by the way, we live in the first world, so we're not, no one's had starvation as a block as of yet, so... So yeah, I'm just more curious as to what it's like when, walk people through that, what you just said quickly about.
Tom Green was a successful white rapper, about as successful as white rappers can. I mean, they only let in about one every five years. It seems like it would be an epidemic, but it's about one every five years.
Tom Green was a successful white rapper, about as successful as white rappers can. I mean, they only let in about one every five years. It seems like it would be an epidemic, but it's about one every five years.
I'm sure it's one of the more beautiful.
I'm sure it's one of the more beautiful.
They should. There's already a seam. I don't know if they've thought about this. There's already a seam. They could just use the whatever.
They should. There's already a seam. I don't know if they've thought about this. There's already a seam. They could just use the whatever.
Keep it beautiful. So you got to be intact.
Keep it beautiful. So you got to be intact.
Ah, did it get to the nodes or they had to test them?
Ah, did it get to the nodes or they had to test them?
After that, you were in pain more or less for a decade?
After that, you were in pain more or less for a decade?
And so then that's kind of- Terrifying, how come?
And so then that's kind of- Terrifying, how come?
And you'd never really done that before?
And you'd never really done that before?
And did you think it was... That worked, you know, that worked. Honestly, did you kind of think that?
And did you think it was... That worked, you know, that worked. Honestly, did you kind of think that?
Did you see it as punishment for success? Do you know what I mean? No. Was it a biblical story of the man? Pride cometh before the fall, et cetera.
Did you see it as punishment for success? Do you know what I mean? No. Was it a biblical story of the man? Pride cometh before the fall, et cetera.
It's interesting. It's like an athlete getting injured or something. And you just take it as fate or take it as like one of those things, just bad luck. That's the way it went.
It's interesting. It's like an athlete getting injured or something. And you just take it as fate or take it as like one of those things, just bad luck. That's the way it went.
yeah yeah you got the cancer and then went to the treatment and the pain and ache that's when you're doing freddie got fingered it was actually just before um so we were getting ready to shoot and uh i directed freddie got fingered which was sort of a you know uh double doubly difficult
yeah yeah you got the cancer and then went to the treatment and the pain and ache that's when you're doing freddie got fingered it was actually just before um so we were getting ready to shoot and uh i directed freddie got fingered which was sort of a you know uh double doubly difficult
Would you share it with people or would you just kind of quietly cylinder on?
Would you share it with people or would you just kind of quietly cylinder on?
Was Organized Rhyme spelled correctly? It was actually spelled correctly. Very Canadian of us. Okay. And yeah, that was another thing I liked about the documentary was how DIY your whole thing was.
Was Organized Rhyme spelled correctly? It was actually spelled correctly. Very Canadian of us. Okay. And yeah, that was another thing I liked about the documentary was how DIY your whole thing was.
It feels like you had 20 years of life in about three years. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
It feels like you had 20 years of life in about three years. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Yeah. When you look at the relationship with the, can you explain the higher level of difficulty of a public relationship?
Yeah. When you look at the relationship with the, can you explain the higher level of difficulty of a public relationship?
Yeah, and the complication being, like, there are people prying, trying to get information about us and trying to look for, they're on the rocks, and you're like, what? We are...
Yeah, and the complication being, like, there are people prying, trying to get information about us and trying to look for, they're on the rocks, and you're like, what? We are...
Like it really was, you went, because we're around the same age, like you had to go rent a camera from either your school or whatever and then make a thing and put it out and see if people liked it and it's hard to root against. Do you know what I mean? Like once you know that, you just go, oh, well this guy, He did it the right way.
Like it really was, you went, because we're around the same age, like you had to go rent a camera from either your school or whatever and then make a thing and put it out and see if people liked it and it's hard to root against. Do you know what I mean? Like once you know that, you just go, oh, well this guy, He did it the right way.
Guys, you know that I have a little bit of gold. I did the joke where I said I have a little bit of gold on one of three mics, I think. But I'm a little tight. I'm kind of a tightwad. That's why I like Rocket Money. Guys, I've used Rocket Money, and I'm using it as we speak.
Guys, you know that I have a little bit of gold. I did the joke where I said I have a little bit of gold on one of three mics, I think. But I'm a little tight. I'm kind of a tightwad. That's why I like Rocket Money. Guys, I've used Rocket Money, and I'm using it as we speak.
They have found subscriptions of mine that I forgot about certain newspapers certain cable companies that I was double they were double dipping I was I was being charged twice on different accounts one you know you've you've had you understand what it's like to person.
They have found subscriptions of mine that I forgot about certain newspapers certain cable companies that I was double they were double dipping I was I was being charged twice on different accounts one you know you've you've had you understand what it's like to person.
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rocketmoney.com slash NEAL. I would say it again, but you're hearing it in your head. I don't even have to say it. Did you hear it? The move to Canada was something I wanted to talk to you about because I'm interested in the idea of having a dream, having a goal, and then more or less completing it. And then going, do I have any other dreams and goals that aren't so money status-based?
rocketmoney.com slash NEAL. I would say it again, but you're hearing it in your head. I don't even have to say it. Did you hear it? The move to Canada was something I wanted to talk to you about because I'm interested in the idea of having a dream, having a goal, and then more or less completing it. And then going, do I have any other dreams and goals that aren't so money status-based?
And how did you come to it and did it feel like success or failure?
And how did you come to it and did it feel like success or failure?
I just realized the difference between lenses. Like, I can tell you the difference between 15 and a... Yeah. Yeah.
I just realized the difference between lenses. Like, I can tell you the difference between 15 and a... Yeah. Yeah.
Like, he ran for local office, and he won, and then he ran for national office, and he won, and then he ran. And even the wind-up to MTV was long. Yeah, yeah. It seemed, to my eye, it was like, oh, who's this guy? You know what I mean?
Like, he ran for local office, and he won, and then he ran for national office, and he won, and then he ran. And even the wind-up to MTV was long. Yeah, yeah. It seemed, to my eye, it was like, oh, who's this guy? You know what I mean?
It's almost like what they say dolphins are like.
It's almost like what they say dolphins are like.
By the way, and still communicate to each other.
By the way, and still communicate to each other.
And are there times where you fake it and she knows you're faking?
And are there times where you fake it and she knows you're faking?
Okay. Now the obvious question is, are you doing it in the rest of your life?
Okay. Now the obvious question is, are you doing it in the rest of your life?
No, no, no. Are you doing the... energetic direction, the idea that everyone has some form of ESP or something? Are you bringing it to audiences? Because people say that about audiences, I'm sure, as long as you've been doing stand-up, and you kind of don't know what they're talking about.
No, no, no. Are you doing the... energetic direction, the idea that everyone has some form of ESP or something? Are you bringing it to audiences? Because people say that about audiences, I'm sure, as long as you've been doing stand-up, and you kind of don't know what they're talking about.
You can sense it. You can sense it, yeah. I feel like, I don't know if it'll be in our lifetime, but I feel like at some point they're going to have instruments. to measure what we now consider like intangible. Like energy or some vibe. Like a vibe-o-meter of like that guy, whatever. I really believe that. You have on here procrastination and indecision. These fucking phones, man.
You can sense it. You can sense it, yeah. I feel like, I don't know if it'll be in our lifetime, but I feel like at some point they're going to have instruments. to measure what we now consider like intangible. Like energy or some vibe. Like a vibe-o-meter of like that guy, whatever. I really believe that. You have on here procrastination and indecision. These fucking phones, man.
It's a chain in Canada. It's a big chain, yeah.
It's a chain in Canada. It's a big chain, yeah.
They drive me nuts. Like TikTok. What's your farm policy? Meaning, do you have a... Ideally on a farm, you're just riding mules and shucking and hiking.
They drive me nuts. Like TikTok. What's your farm policy? Meaning, do you have a... Ideally on a farm, you're just riding mules and shucking and hiking.
Do you find your need for... Likes, approval, I'm old enough to know, I had this before phones. You had it before, you had a television show based on likes and you were the most, you were like a social media person before social media, right? Do you find it getting better with age? Are you disappointed that it's not getting better with age? Are you finally going like, this is stupid?
Do you find your need for... Likes, approval, I'm old enough to know, I had this before phones. You had it before, you had a television show based on likes and you were the most, you were like a social media person before social media, right? Do you find it getting better with age? Are you disappointed that it's not getting better with age? Are you finally going like, this is stupid?
Have you accepted it? Like, what's your approach?
Have you accepted it? Like, what's your approach?
I don't really watch... Instead of doing what? What would you rather do?
I don't really watch... Instead of doing what? What would you rather do?
There's that light phone. Yeah. They just came out with a new one.
There's that light phone. Yeah. They just came out with a new one.
And that was sort of a moment where I realized – Was he – was Norm doing especially well in Canada? Was it a bit of a word of mouth thing? He was the headliner in Canada.
And that was sort of a moment where I realized – Was he – was Norm doing especially well in Canada? Was it a bit of a word of mouth thing? He was the headliner in Canada.
It's hyper addictive. It's a better addiction algorithm than Instagram.
It's hyper addictive. It's a better addiction algorithm than Instagram.
What would you like to be doing? When you're procrastinating, what are you avoiding?
What would you like to be doing? When you're procrastinating, what are you avoiding?
And there probably were, I guess there were a number of headlines in Canada, right?
And there probably were, I guess there were a number of headlines in Canada, right?
Yeah, even if it sucks, it's still better than not writing a song.
Yeah, even if it sucks, it's still better than not writing a song.
Listen to you talk about creativity, whether it's beats when you're 16 or 18, whether it's white rap, remote, man on the street pieces, movies, now country music, stand-up. That's your preferred mode of communication, isn't it? Over talking to people. Like, meaning there is something, or even like falling over a trash can. Right. Like, have you been accused of not liking intimacy? Um...
Listen to you talk about creativity, whether it's beats when you're 16 or 18, whether it's white rap, remote, man on the street pieces, movies, now country music, stand-up. That's your preferred mode of communication, isn't it? Over talking to people. Like, meaning there is something, or even like falling over a trash can. Right. Like, have you been accused of not liking intimacy? Um...
My point is I realize I have a lot of friends that don't especially like connecting intimately. Not even intimately, like sexually. I just mean like me and you on the phone for an hour and a half just baring our... Or me and you walking or me and you whatever. There's also a thing where guys generally don't like... Guys don't like face-to-face conversations.
My point is I realize I have a lot of friends that don't especially like connecting intimately. Not even intimately, like sexually. I just mean like me and you on the phone for an hour and a half just baring our... Or me and you walking or me and you whatever. There's also a thing where guys generally don't like... Guys don't like face-to-face conversations.
Maybe it's just Canadian-ness that's flaring up. Yeah. Sort of like you want to keep it sort of cordial and not like, well, let's not get crazy now. Yeah. Let's all be sort of publicly acceptable. Yeah. Because you're right. The cancer special is like a very uniquely intimate thing.
Maybe it's just Canadian-ness that's flaring up. Yeah. Sort of like you want to keep it sort of cordial and not like, well, let's not get crazy now. Yeah. Let's all be sort of publicly acceptable. Yeah. Because you're right. The cancer special is like a very uniquely intimate thing.
Yeah, that's a good bit. I completely agree.
Yeah, that's a good bit. I completely agree.
We're in our future. Yeah, yeah. We're in it. This is our future. We're looking at our future. This is the future we catastrophized and dreamt of. This is it. A fucking podcast, Tom Green.
We're in our future. Yeah, yeah. We're in it. This is our future. We're looking at our future. This is the future we catastrophized and dreamt of. This is it. A fucking podcast, Tom Green.
Was it the same kind of jokes, like obtuse and weird?
Was it the same kind of jokes, like obtuse and weird?
That must have been so surreal. You must have been like, what?
That must have been so surreal. You must have been like, what?
You're constantly being sized up or sizing yourself up against other people. Yeah.
You're constantly being sized up or sizing yourself up against other people. Yeah.
Probably some white supremacists now?
Probably some white supremacists now?
Yeah, you have nothing to be supreme over. It's all white people.
Yeah, you have nothing to be supreme over. It's all white people.
That's one of those luck things, and it turns out to be one of the best comedians ever.
That's one of those luck things, and it turns out to be one of the best comedians ever.
Yeah, it's a unique thing to be in a way that's probably energizing.
Yeah, it's a unique thing to be in a way that's probably energizing.
Yeah. Which is always... Were you worried that you weren't going to find anybody or you'd die alone or any of that stuff?
Yeah. Which is always... Were you worried that you weren't going to find anybody or you'd die alone or any of that stuff?
and then uh and then uh and then of course you know so i'm you know she really lucked out right she could still travel around in a van with me and then you know and then people keep sending us uh the gabby petito story so yeah so it's like uh what do you think the difference is you think why can you do it with her is it because of how you how much tolerance you have for her or how much tolerance she has for you
and then uh and then uh and then of course you know so i'm you know she really lucked out right she could still travel around in a van with me and then you know and then people keep sending us uh the gabby petito story so yeah so it's like uh what do you think the difference is you think why can you do it with her is it because of how you how much tolerance you have for her or how much tolerance she has for you
No, she's 15 years. Yeah, she is. 15 years, is that right?
No, she's 15 years. Yeah, she is. 15 years, is that right?
And you don't get in her... You don't think about what she's thinking and is she mad? Is this okay?
And you don't get in her... You don't think about what she's thinking and is she mad? Is this okay?
Yeah. Someone who's not as anxious as you are. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Exactly. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. All right. Well, it was great talking to you, man. Love you, man. You too, buddy. Thanks, Neil.
Yeah. Someone who's not as anxious as you are. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Exactly. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. All right. Well, it was great talking to you, man. Love you, man. You too, buddy. Thanks, Neil.
People don't like you to talk about certain. I remember Chappelle started when he was 14 and he did sex jokes and somebody told him, like, you can't do sex like people don't want that from a 14 year old.
People don't like you to talk about certain. I remember Chappelle started when he was 14 and he did sex jokes and somebody told him, like, you can't do sex like people don't want that from a 14 year old.
That was one of those, the most recent one in culture was like Luka Doncic got traded from Dallas to the Lakers, right? The big sports thing. But it was that big a plot twist where it was like, what? What?
That was one of those, the most recent one in culture was like Luka Doncic got traded from Dallas to the Lakers, right? The big sports thing. But it was that big a plot twist where it was like, what? What?
And how did you handle it? Meaning, did you get arrogant? Did you get petulant? Did you know what was happening? Did you think you were exceptional? Did you think, you know what I mean? Like, what was it like?
And how did you handle it? Meaning, did you get arrogant? Did you get petulant? Did you know what was happening? Did you think you were exceptional? Did you think, you know what I mean? Like, what was it like?
I'd like to reiterate, you earned it. Again, back then, I had the reaction everybody has to a new person on MTV, which is like arms folded. Like, who is this? I don't know who this new VJ is. So you resist it. But the shit was good. And then watching the documentary, it's like, and it was honed. Yeah.
I'd like to reiterate, you earned it. Again, back then, I had the reaction everybody has to a new person on MTV, which is like arms folded. Like, who is this? I don't know who this new VJ is. So you resist it. But the shit was good. And then watching the documentary, it's like, and it was honed. Yeah.
And and you're so I so I you don't I don't have any of the resentment a person might have of like, who the fuck is this guy? Now, go back to your answer. I just want to I just want you to know that you have my respect. OK, like you, man, you have my respect and I want to know what it was like.
And and you're so I so I you don't I don't have any of the resentment a person might have of like, who the fuck is this guy? Now, go back to your answer. I just want to I just want you to know that you have my respect. OK, like you, man, you have my respect and I want to know what it was like.
But even that was slow, according to the documentary.
But even that was slow, according to the documentary.
There's something amateurish about it. Yeah. Because they weren't professional actors. Yeah, yeah. And I would also like to mention the Beastie Boys being part of that. Like they were early 90s, like homemade, DIY, fun, silly,
There's something amateurish about it. Yeah. Because they weren't professional actors. Yeah, yeah. And I would also like to mention the Beastie Boys being part of that. Like they were early 90s, like homemade, DIY, fun, silly,
And I was... Yeah, the Oprah one in the documentary. I was like, he did Oprah? Yeah, yeah. And he's my favorite. Like, she said something, like, very favorable, which I found funny.
And I was... Yeah, the Oprah one in the documentary. I was like, he did Oprah? Yeah, yeah. And he's my favorite. Like, she said something, like, very favorable, which I found funny.
You were crowning. You were like ascendant. And you were also rare in that you were under 30, right? Yeah, 28. Yeah. And nobody was really young in show. Like there was like the pop stars, but but you seem especially young back then.
You were crowning. You were like ascendant. And you were also rare in that you were under 30, right? Yeah, 28. Yeah. And nobody was really young in show. Like there was like the pop stars, but but you seem especially young back then.
But I'm not talking about talk shows. I'm talking about... Did you think like, I'm kind of the shit?
But I'm not talking about talk shows. I'm talking about... Did you think like, I'm kind of the shit?
yeah uh i think it was like maybe sometimes i think in hindsight i think about this a lot actually i would think you do yeah man because it's really just gone the show was so nuts i probably should i remember when i and i my buddy mike sure was right in there he didn't i don't remember he would tell me generally when someone was being a pain in the ass i don't remember them saying anything yeah yeah have you has anyone said anything in retrospect or like
yeah uh i think it was like maybe sometimes i think in hindsight i think about this a lot actually i would think you do yeah man because it's really just gone the show was so nuts i probably should i remember when i and i my buddy mike sure was right in there he didn't i don't remember he would tell me generally when someone was being a pain in the ass i don't remember them saying anything yeah yeah have you has anyone said anything in retrospect or like
Always be closing. I want you to find this Nancy boy, Elliot Ness. I want him dead. I want his family dead. I want his house burnt to the ground.
Always be closing. I want you to find this Nancy boy, Elliot Ness. I want him dead. I want his family dead. I want his house burnt to the ground.
hey before you watch this thing hit subscribe would you hey everybody it's uh it's neil brennan it's a pox podcast uh we heal the earth etc etc my guest today i looked it up i've known for 14 years pretty good feels longer not no judgment um 14 years when i met him he was uh merely the nba rookie of the year
hey before you watch this thing hit subscribe would you hey everybody it's uh it's neil brennan it's a pox podcast uh we heal the earth etc etc my guest today i looked it up i've known for 14 years pretty good feels longer not no judgment um 14 years when i met him he was uh merely the nba rookie of the year
And then, yeah, there's those guys around you can't really talk to rookies because it's like, hey, go talk to J-Dragon. He's old. He'll have some good wisdom for you. I don't know anything.
And then, yeah, there's those guys around you can't really talk to rookies because it's like, hey, go talk to J-Dragon. He's old. He'll have some good wisdom for you. I don't know anything.
Yeah, you'll probably be rookie of the year. Yeah, that's what I always wonder about. So you think most of it is just like empathy, right? Yeah, empathy, 100%. You're doing what every girlfriend I've ever had has wanted me to do. And probably you too, which is just listen. The problems are so much more interesting when they're about basketball.
Yeah, you'll probably be rookie of the year. Yeah, that's what I always wonder about. So you think most of it is just like empathy, right? Yeah, empathy, 100%. You're doing what every girlfriend I've ever had has wanted me to do. And probably you too, which is just listen. The problems are so much more interesting when they're about basketball.
It's so much easier to listen to basketball problems than emotional problems from their job.
It's so much easier to listen to basketball problems than emotional problems from their job.
This the amount of attention you get for it.
This the amount of attention you get for it.
It's hard to believe it's going to end and it's hard to believe it's not very important. Yeah.
It's hard to believe it's going to end and it's hard to believe it's not very important. Yeah.
It feels like you still exercise. When I hugged you, it felt like a man who exercises. Is that true? I'm a man who exercises.
It feels like you still exercise. When I hugged you, it felt like a man who exercises. Is that true? I'm a man who exercises.
So huge. And you don't have to exercise. You're not in breach of contract, kind of. Or if you don't exercise, you're not going to get your ass whooped by someone in six weeks. Publicly.
So huge. And you don't have to exercise. You're not in breach of contract, kind of. Or if you don't exercise, you're not going to get your ass whooped by someone in six weeks. Publicly.
Zach Randolph is not going to move me for no reason. He probably still will. Zach, come on out.
Zach Randolph is not going to move me for no reason. He probably still will. Zach, come on out.
This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. You know how therapy can kind of feel like a big investment, time, money, effort, being open, available emotionally. But it's like anything else. If you go to a gym, if you exercise, if you eat decently, it's basically just like the gym but for your mental and emotional health. Let's talk numbers.
This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. You know how therapy can kind of feel like a big investment, time, money, effort, being open, available emotionally. But it's like anything else. If you go to a gym, if you exercise, if you eat decently, it's basically just like the gym but for your mental and emotional health. Let's talk numbers.
Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast. But with BetterHelp Online Therapy, you can save on average up to 50% per session. Again, this is like a broken record. This whole thing should just be me saying betterhelp.com slash Neil.
Traditional in-person therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 per session, which adds up fast. But with BetterHelp Online Therapy, you can save on average up to 50% per session. Again, this is like a broken record. This whole thing should just be me saying betterhelp.com slash Neil.
Instead, I'll tell you about the years of therapy I've gone to and that I'm back in therapy and that it's helping. It's more, well, it's couples therapy, but like regular therapy too. It's not, I'm not talking about trauma. I'm sort of done talking about my family at this point. It's just more for personal upkeep on my habits.
Instead, I'll tell you about the years of therapy I've gone to and that I'm back in therapy and that it's helping. It's more, well, it's couples therapy, but like regular therapy too. It's not, I'm not talking about trauma. I'm sort of done talking about my family at this point. It's just more for personal upkeep on my habits.
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With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. Here's the call to action. Your well-being is worth it. Visit betterhelp.com slash neal today to get 10% off your first month. That's betterhelp, H-E-L-P, dot com slash N-E-A-L. 10% off your first month. Betterhelp.com slash neal. I care about eating well.
Because the truth is, yeah, you're good at basketball, which is very valuable anywhere, let alone Oklahoma, where they got nothing going on. But you're good from eighth grade?
Because the truth is, yeah, you're good at basketball, which is very valuable anywhere, let alone Oklahoma, where they got nothing going on. But you're good from eighth grade?
That's why I only do one sugar day a week. You know, I'm vegan sometimes, vegan vegetarian. Nutrient dense meals are vital to your health, but like food doesn't have to be boring. That's how I judge restaurants. It's like a lot of vegan places feel like punishment. I don't want to be punished. I just want to eat decent food.
That's why I only do one sugar day a week. You know, I'm vegan sometimes, vegan vegetarian. Nutrient dense meals are vital to your health, but like food doesn't have to be boring. That's how I judge restaurants. It's like a lot of vegan places feel like punishment. I don't want to be punished. I just want to eat decent food.
And then CookUnity came on as a sponsor and I've been getting their stuff and it's excellent. It's so good. Like I've been getting this shepherd's pie. That's so goddamn good. There's a pasta. They have impossible burgers. It's great. CookUnity has fresh flavors for every diet, including keto, gluten-free, and GLP-1 balanced.
And then CookUnity came on as a sponsor and I've been getting their stuff and it's excellent. It's so good. Like I've been getting this shepherd's pie. That's so goddamn good. There's a pasta. They have impossible burgers. It's great. CookUnity has fresh flavors for every diet, including keto, gluten-free, and GLP-1 balanced.
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sent fresh not frozen and delivered directly to your door all at a fraction of the usual cost and time go to cookunity.com any al or enter code any al before checkout for 50 off your first week again i've been doing it it's excellent it's literally excellent i didn't even use my own promo code the first week
that's how excited i am about this and then i got to use it it was fantastic it's just delicious it's also the right amount because sometimes i'll cook for myself i get an air fryer pretty exciting i didn't tell you guys about it but i got an air fryer it's pretty exciting but i overcook food and then i feel like i have to eat it all because i'm i have guilt issues and then i uh i get a weight i don't want to be then i gotta whatever you don't want you you wouldn't last a day in this in this mental process
that's how excited i am about this and then i got to use it it was fantastic it's just delicious it's also the right amount because sometimes i'll cook for myself i get an air fryer pretty exciting i didn't tell you guys about it but i got an air fryer it's pretty exciting but i overcook food and then i feel like i have to eat it all because i'm i have guilt issues and then i uh i get a weight i don't want to be then i gotta whatever you don't want you you wouldn't last a day in this in this mental process
Yeah, like I said, I got shepherd's pie. I got impossible burrito, I think. I got some cacio e pepe pasta. It's the right amount. They tell you how many calories it is. It's the right price. It's delivered to your door. You don't have to think about it. You can stick it in the fridge, eat it that week. You can stay in the freezer, eat it later.
Yeah, like I said, I got shepherd's pie. I got impossible burrito, I think. I got some cacio e pepe pasta. It's the right amount. They tell you how many calories it is. It's the right price. It's delivered to your door. You don't have to think about it. You can stick it in the fridge, eat it that week. You can stay in the freezer, eat it later.
And like I said, they have a bunch of chefs and that each chef makes a few things and they contribute. And then you order from that chef specifically different recipes, different dietary needs. It's a great system. It's the best food thing I've ever I've ever certainly done. I used to do a vegan one and they would just send you like vats of crap.
And like I said, they have a bunch of chefs and that each chef makes a few things and they contribute. And then you order from that chef specifically different recipes, different dietary needs. It's a great system. It's the best food thing I've ever I've ever certainly done. I used to do a vegan one and they would just send you like vats of crap.
And it was like it felt like punishment, which I don't like. Menus are updated weekly and new chefs are always joining the team. So mealtime will never be boring. Yeah, you just heat it up five minutes. Flexible, commitment-free subscriptions. You can skip deliveries, pause, or cancel any time. You can do it for a week. You can do it for a month. You can do whatever. You can order four meals.
And it was like it felt like punishment, which I don't like. Menus are updated weekly and new chefs are always joining the team. So mealtime will never be boring. Yeah, you just heat it up five minutes. Flexible, commitment-free subscriptions. You can skip deliveries, pause, or cancel any time. You can do it for a week. You can do it for a month. You can do whatever. You can order four meals.
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You can order 10. Subscriptions start at as low as $11 a meal. Here's the call to action. Crush your health goals with mouth-watering, chef-crafted meals delivered straight to your door. Go to cookunity.com slash NEAL or enter code NEAL before checkout for 50% off your first week. That's 50% off your first week by using code NEAL or going to cookunity.com slash NEAL. Cook Unity. Legit.
You talked about coaching. Somebody, I think one of the, I think somebody you played with was talking about toward the end of the Clippers, and there was some story about you kind of telling Doc, like, fuck that. And I was like, I don't know if this is a true story or whatever, but like, were you...
You talked about coaching. Somebody, I think one of the, I think somebody you played with was talking about toward the end of the Clippers, and there was some story about you kind of telling Doc, like, fuck that. And I was like, I don't know if this is a true story or whatever, but like, were you...
He's too competitive. Sue him. What are you going to do, guys? It worked for a long time. Now he's going to be competitive with Dirk Nowitzki at talking. On Amazon Prime. Ding. I don't even know what their thing is. Well, they'll figure out a ding. We'll add that in. We'll add that in. You'll get it. I'm going to need you to add that in. A lot of text.
He's too competitive. Sue him. What are you going to do, guys? It worked for a long time. Now he's going to be competitive with Dirk Nowitzki at talking. On Amazon Prime. Ding. I don't even know what their thing is. Well, they'll figure out a ding. We'll add that in. We'll add that in. You'll get it. I'm going to need you to add that in. A lot of text.
Contractually, I'm going to need you to put that in. But so you see it as like the worst of your like, ah, shit. I wish I hadn't. I wish I'd been more understanding or more.
Contractually, I'm going to need you to put that in. But so you see it as like the worst of your like, ah, shit. I wish I hadn't. I wish I'd been more understanding or more.
Well, no, that's what I mean. Like, I'm sure that spirit made you score 40 in a game. Do you know what I mean? Or would you consider those your best performances free of that?
Well, no, that's what I mean. Like, I'm sure that spirit made you score 40 in a game. Do you know what I mean? Or would you consider those your best performances free of that?
but i also kind of love that challenge too it was kind of it was like it was it was a it was a game was it a mind shift mindset shift a little bit more like is it just do the thing you used to do over 40 minutes but do it in four uh yes yes uh well no i guess not which is it i'm kidding You're never going to make it on Amazon. Sorry.
but i also kind of love that challenge too it was kind of it was like it was it was a it was a game was it a mind shift mindset shift a little bit more like is it just do the thing you used to do over 40 minutes but do it in four uh yes yes uh well no i guess not which is it i'm kidding You're never going to make it on Amazon. Sorry.
Just ask me that again, and I'll give you a real cool Amazon answer. Yeah, no, I can assume that it would be – that would be a fun challenge, but also it's a bit like you have one scene – You can tell guys in one scene that try to like, they are in a totally different tone than the person they're in a scene with. And it's like, you gotta chill out, man. We're all doing a different tone.
Just ask me that again, and I'll give you a real cool Amazon answer. Yeah, no, I can assume that it would be – that would be a fun challenge, but also it's a bit like you have one scene – You can tell guys in one scene that try to like, they are in a totally different tone than the person they're in a scene with. And it's like, you gotta chill out, man. We're all doing a different tone.
But I guess if you gotta do it, you gotta do it. Or you change your identity of like, to be scrappy.
But I guess if you gotta do it, you gotta do it. Or you change your identity of like, to be scrappy.
um and what do you make of the relationships you had that you were like that were te like you you and chris were a little testy and looking back is it like back i wish i could are there think relationships like that where you wish you could approach it differently knowing what you know or if there was a different approach and i don't even even call it a little testy maybe wrong yeah i mean i i i truly think i think you would say the same thing like if you i think
um and what do you make of the relationships you had that you were like that were te like you you and chris were a little testy and looking back is it like back i wish i could are there think relationships like that where you wish you could approach it differently knowing what you know or if there was a different approach and i don't even even call it a little testy maybe wrong yeah i mean i i i truly think i think you would say the same thing like if you i think
people outside tried to make that much much more of a thing yeah um but even them making it a thing kind of makes it a thing yeah because you don't know who leaked what yeah or who and it's all outside or but like We did some great sketches together, me, Blake, and Chris.
people outside tried to make that much much more of a thing yeah um but even them making it a thing kind of makes it a thing yeah because you don't know who leaked what yeah or who and it's all outside or but like We did some great sketches together, me, Blake, and Chris.
Yeah, it's like you did get along. Yeah. So it was always, it was when I'd hear that you'd mark it along, it was kind of, I didn't understand it.
Yeah, it's like you did get along. Yeah. So it was always, it was when I'd hear that you'd mark it along, it was kind of, I didn't understand it.
Did it add to the stress? What's that? Because it was like top tier team level of coverage. And then there was something a little extra to the Clipper coverage. And that was hard. It was like more Hollywood. I don't know what the energy was.
Did it add to the stress? What's that? Because it was like top tier team level of coverage. And then there was something a little extra to the Clipper coverage. And that was hard. It was like more Hollywood. I don't know what the energy was.
It's like you didn't even know what was... No, no, no.
It's like you didn't even know what was... No, no, no.
In the NBA, can you see the ref in the next game and be like, hey, I was fucking dead wrong?
In the NBA, can you see the ref in the next game and be like, hey, I was fucking dead wrong?
Yeah, and you think it was just the stress of like, we have a lot of nationally televised games.
Yeah, and you think it was just the stress of like, we have a lot of nationally televised games.
Okay, so you feel like some of it was just unavoidable immaturity because you are 20-something.
Okay, so you feel like some of it was just unavoidable immaturity because you are 20-something.
But for the most part, you think you handled the whole thing
But for the most part, you think you handled the whole thing
What do you think most of it is? Gaging people's reactions? Meaning, I always find fame to be like, you're just trying to calm people down. A little bit? Where you're like, hey, no, no, no, it's fine. Yeah. Yeah, yeah.
What do you think most of it is? Gaging people's reactions? Meaning, I always find fame to be like, you're just trying to calm people down. A little bit? Where you're like, hey, no, no, no, it's fine. Yeah. Yeah, yeah.
He'll just bring that up sometimes apropos of nothing. He'll be like, they'll go, can I get your order?
He'll just bring that up sometimes apropos of nothing. He'll be like, they'll go, can I get your order?
I'll take the number nine. And also, funny about the number nine. Anyhow. Look at it. And he'll lift his shirt up at a restaurant. No, no, no, no. Get in here. Look at this. It's off-putting. I got scars. Physical and emotional. Yeah. Well, okay. And how did you find, so it's, it's a high stress job. Would you say it's a high stress job? Yeah. I mean, yes.
I'll take the number nine. And also, funny about the number nine. Anyhow. Look at it. And he'll lift his shirt up at a restaurant. No, no, no, no. Get in here. Look at this. It's off-putting. I got scars. Physical and emotional. Yeah. Well, okay. And how did you find, so it's, it's a high stress job. Would you say it's a high stress job? Yeah. I mean, yes.
With the caveats of like, it's not real high stress jobs.
With the caveats of like, it's not real high stress jobs.
Well, it's funny. Does it inflate your ego? in a way that makes it easier to pop. Do you know what I mean? Like, the more praise you get, the more praise you're used to getting, and then any sort of, there was, I remember Malcolm Gladwell did a study, and I think I told you about it, where all the guys that were getting technicals were max players.
Well, it's funny. Does it inflate your ego? in a way that makes it easier to pop. Do you know what I mean? Like, the more praise you get, the more praise you're used to getting, and then any sort of, there was, I remember Malcolm Gladwell did a study, and I think I told you about it, where all the guys that were getting technicals were max players.
It's all based on like, off the court, these guys,
It's all based on like, off the court, these guys,
get no they don't get any fouls called on them like interpersonally on the street nothing they can't so when you get called a foul it's like more it's me i'm sorry do you know who you're talking to basically yeah i mean it's a it's a great point i think like the more inflated and the easier it is to inflate that ego the easier it is like where like one small thing can be like
get no they don't get any fouls called on them like interpersonally on the street nothing they can't so when you get called a foul it's like more it's me i'm sorry do you know who you're talking to basically yeah i mean it's a it's a great point i think like the more inflated and the easier it is to inflate that ego the easier it is like where like one small thing can be like
They grip the wheel and do all that. Turning signals. I thought it was just green screen that whole time. Wow. Yeah, like your parents, is your brother's regular?
They grip the wheel and do all that. Turning signals. I thought it was just green screen that whole time. Wow. Yeah, like your parents, is your brother's regular?
What do you think the worst thing someone could say about you as a player and they'd be right about? Wow. Not even talking about, like, style of play. Oh, like style of play? Well, just like he's got – whatever. Not the scouting report, just of, like, Blake's an asshole.
What do you think the worst thing someone could say about you as a player and they'd be right about? Wow. Not even talking about, like, style of play. Oh, like style of play? Well, just like he's got – whatever. Not the scouting report, just of, like, Blake's an asshole.
I remember Chappelle saw Bill Murray. Chappelle wasn't famous. And he saw Bill Murray on the street in like 1992 or something. And Chappelle was like, oh. And Bill Murray just goes... Yeah. Yeah. And just like ducked in.
I remember Chappelle saw Bill Murray. Chappelle wasn't famous. And he saw Bill Murray on the street in like 1992 or something. And Chappelle was like, oh. And Bill Murray just goes... Yeah. Yeah. And just like ducked in.
You assume – like, you kind of want him to think you're an asshole? Back then.
You assume – like, you kind of want him to think you're an asshole? Back then.
That's the horn. Fuck you, dude. You don't fuck your kid. That's interesting. I've never heard you express it. That's fun. It is fun. What about those, like, when they're a fight, what was that famous story of, like, Is there anything you haven't talked about? And wasn't there a thing where, like, Houston was outside the locker room or Chris was involved?
That's the horn. Fuck you, dude. You don't fuck your kid. That's interesting. I've never heard you express it. That's fun. It is fun. What about those, like, when they're a fight, what was that famous story of, like, Is there anything you haven't talked about? And wasn't there a thing where, like, Houston was outside the locker room or Chris was involved?
Now that you're, An announcer, I heard you say something about, like, you'll try to be fair, but you're – but, like, pro player overall.
Now that you're, An announcer, I heard you say something about, like, you'll try to be fair, but you're – but, like, pro player overall.
The fact that like All the Smoke or even Stephen A or any of these guys, JJ and LeBron had a podcast where it was all X's and O's and it was kind of popular. Yeah.
The fact that like All the Smoke or even Stephen A or any of these guys, JJ and LeBron had a podcast where it was all X's and O's and it was kind of popular. Yeah.
meaning it wasn't like a runaway hit it's great if you really love basketball right but people don't really love that they just want to hear they want the drama they want all the yeah yeah like so they as much as people say like i love the sport and i'm like no you're not because that you didn't you literally didn't look at it yeah you don't care about most of the shit
meaning it wasn't like a runaway hit it's great if you really love basketball right but people don't really love that they just want to hear they want the drama they want all the yeah yeah like so they as much as people say like i love the sport and i'm like no you're not because that you didn't you literally didn't look at it yeah you don't care about most of the shit
Yeah, I watched the game with you once. We watched Summer League for 15 seconds, and I had no idea what you're talking about. Literally, no. I'm like, I have no fucking idea what you're talking about. Dude, I have a buddy who's, you know, I have several buddies who are, you know, ex-NFL players.
Yeah, I watched the game with you once. We watched Summer League for 15 seconds, and I had no idea what you're talking about. Literally, no. I'm like, I have no fucking idea what you're talking about. Dude, I have a buddy who's, you know, I have several buddies who are, you know, ex-NFL players.
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So we set up a quick survey and are going to give one lucky listener or viewer an $150 Amazon gift card. It'll take just a few minutes to fill out the survey and will be of enormous help. Go to surveymonkey.com slash r slash blocks podcast or click the link in the description. Fill out a survey. And enter your email address for a chance to win a $150 Amazon gift card.
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Visit Huel.com slash NEAL today to get 50% off your first order plus a free gift. Okay. So I don't always like having to eat, especially lunch. I just don't want to like sit and go and get a thing. And sometimes I do, but other times I'm just like, I just want to keep doing what I'm doing and get a quick drink. And HUE, H-U-E, like fuel, but with an H, is great.
Visit Huel.com slash NEAL today to get 50% off your first order plus a free gift. Okay. So I don't always like having to eat, especially lunch. I just don't want to like sit and go and get a thing. And sometimes I do, but other times I'm just like, I just want to keep doing what I'm doing and get a quick drink. And HUE, H-U-E, like fuel, but with an H, is great.
It's got all the vitamins, nutrients, protein, fiber, all the stuff you need in each serving.
It's got all the vitamins, nutrients, protein, fiber, all the stuff you need in each serving.
I like vanilla truthfully I take a vanilla I drink some I pour a little bit of chocolate in it so it's a little so it's not vanilla is a great flavor though and uh and it takes I'm full for five hours like I don't I don't eat a ton anyway but like it's got the protein it's got vitamin c which supports your immune system it's very convenient they'll send you a box uh you just grab it and crack it
I like vanilla truthfully I take a vanilla I drink some I pour a little bit of chocolate in it so it's a little so it's not vanilla is a great flavor though and uh and it takes I'm full for five hours like I don't I don't eat a ton anyway but like it's got the protein it's got vitamin c which supports your immune system it's very convenient they'll send you a box uh you just grab it and crack it
Cheaper than coffee. When you think about what you're spending on takeout or meal deals, it's a no-brainer. And it tastes, they say decent. I think it tastes good. And you can soup it up however you want. If you want it to be more of a smoothie, you can pour it in a blender, throw ice, whatever. You can add whatever else you want. It's a great smoothie base or it's its own drink.
Cheaper than coffee. When you think about what you're spending on takeout or meal deals, it's a no-brainer. And it tastes, they say decent. I think it tastes good. And you can soup it up however you want. If you want it to be more of a smoothie, you can pour it in a blender, throw ice, whatever. You can add whatever else you want. It's a great smoothie base or it's its own drink.
The Black Edition Ready to Drink Meal is a meal in a bottle. One bottle contains 35 grams of protein, 27 vitamins and minerals, and is low in sugar. Huel is perfectly balanced meal designed by nutrition experts and takes the guesswork out of healthy eating. It's convenient, tastes good. They're low in sugar. They're affordable.
The Black Edition Ready to Drink Meal is a meal in a bottle. One bottle contains 35 grams of protein, 27 vitamins and minerals, and is low in sugar. Huel is perfectly balanced meal designed by nutrition experts and takes the guesswork out of healthy eating. It's convenient, tastes good. They're low in sugar. They're affordable.
I don't know what it ends up being like around under just under $5 a bottle, which sounds like everything's expensive now. So $5 a bottle is not a problem. It's going to save you time and money, and I'm telling you, it's good. And if you want to add other stuff, fruit, vegetables, ice, whatever, you want to add meat, hit it. You want to add more protein, you want to add whatever you want to do.
I don't know what it ends up being like around under just under $5 a bottle, which sounds like everything's expensive now. So $5 a bottle is not a problem. It's going to save you time and money, and I'm telling you, it's good. And if you want to add other stuff, fruit, vegetables, ice, whatever, you want to add meat, hit it. You want to add more protein, you want to add whatever you want to do.
Knock yourself out. You have my permission. New customers visit H-U-E-L dot com slash N-E-A-L today and use my code N-E-A-L to get 15% off your first order today. Plus, a free gift. Legit good. You've seen me drink it on the show. Like, it's great. Huel.com slash NEAL. Enjoy it. So let's say Luka is not in good physical shape. Right? Let's say all the stuff they said about him is true.
Knock yourself out. You have my permission. New customers visit H-U-E-L dot com slash N-E-A-L today and use my code N-E-A-L to get 15% off your first order today. Plus, a free gift. Legit good. You've seen me drink it on the show. Like, it's great. Huel.com slash NEAL. Enjoy it. So let's say Luka is not in good physical shape. Right? Let's say all the stuff they said about him is true.
Can a guy be in medium shape and have a 12-year first-team All-NBA career? Absolutely. If you're talented enough. So it really is just like, oh, if you're talented, none of it matters. Are you saying like all NBA, like every year? Around as good as he's been.
Can a guy be in medium shape and have a 12-year first-team All-NBA career? Absolutely. If you're talented enough. So it really is just like, oh, if you're talented, none of it matters. Are you saying like all NBA, like every year? Around as good as he's been.
But he doesn't have the kind of body that looks like he's in good shape. But you can tell, as someone who's had to guard him or been guarded by him, like – like one of these things where you're out of breath and you're like, he's in pretty good shape.
But he doesn't have the kind of body that looks like he's in good shape. But you can tell, as someone who's had to guard him or been guarded by him, like – like one of these things where you're out of breath and you're like, he's in pretty good shape.
I think we're just saying these guys are just white, and that's terminal.
I think we're just saying these guys are just white, and that's terminal.
Well, okay, let's say you're the GM. Let's say you're the Rob Palenka, which I know you love his jackets. So his hair, his jackets. The tan. Have a press conference. The biblical references.
Well, okay, let's say you're the GM. Let's say you're the Rob Palenka, which I know you love his jackets. So his hair, his jackets. The tan. Have a press conference. The biblical references.
To have a wear a leather jacket unzipped with the sleeves up and it's unzipped from the bottom for a huge press conference. What a bold statement.
To have a wear a leather jacket unzipped with the sleeves up and it's unzipped from the bottom for a huge press conference. What a bold statement.
What would you say to Luca about his physical shape? Do you know what I mean? As a guy who's a mentor now, you open with empathy. We all know that. You say, I love donuts and crullers as much as anybody.
What would you say to Luca about his physical shape? Do you know what I mean? As a guy who's a mentor now, you open with empathy. We all know that. You say, I love donuts and crullers as much as anybody.
But honestly, how would you manage something like that?
But honestly, how would you manage something like that?
And is it when guys have their own fitness team and their own, all that stuff, do you think that there is gonna be a natural tension between the team and him? Because there's this shit like Kawhi and all that stuff where it's like we want you to play, we want you to sit, you're not ready, hurry up.
And is it when guys have their own fitness team and their own, all that stuff, do you think that there is gonna be a natural tension between the team and him? Because there's this shit like Kawhi and all that stuff where it's like we want you to play, we want you to sit, you're not ready, hurry up.
He went on to become All-NBA twice? Three times?
He went on to become All-NBA twice? Three times?
And so there are guys that are not in – They can't bench, they can't, they don't, they're not, but it doesn't matter. As long as you can put that ball in the hoop or do exactly what your role is. Could someone play power forward and be like that? Were there times where you're like, I gotta lift more?
And so there are guys that are not in – They can't bench, they can't, they don't, they're not, but it doesn't matter. As long as you can put that ball in the hoop or do exactly what your role is. Could someone play power forward and be like that? Were there times where you're like, I gotta lift more?
Were there times where you, where there were challenges, or like a sequence where you're like, fuck, that guy's so much stronger than me.
Were there times where you, where there were challenges, or like a sequence where you're like, fuck, that guy's so much stronger than me.
You were the first person to tell me about, or maybe I asked you about sports psychologists, and you told me about yours, and there was a book I read called, I think, 10-Minute Toughness. But you were very, you're very big on positive visualization. Yes. Tell people about that.
You were the first person to tell me about, or maybe I asked you about sports psychologists, and you told me about yours, and there was a book I read called, I think, 10-Minute Toughness. But you were very, you're very big on positive visualization. Yes. Tell people about that.
Because even, I remember saying, like you said, no, like anything I do on the court, I've already seen it in a split second before I do it.
Because even, I remember saying, like you said, no, like anything I do on the court, I've already seen it in a split second before I do it.
Are you imagining what it would feel like emotionally or you're picturing it third person? I'm picturing myself do it. From my perspective. From your first person.
Are you imagining what it would feel like emotionally or you're picturing it third person? I'm picturing myself do it. From my perspective. From your first person.
And is it about, are you keyed into how it'll feel physically or keyed into like?
And is it about, are you keyed into how it'll feel physically or keyed into like?
From being on an active roster to now. But the truth is probably a lot of people don't even know you're retired. Yeah, I mean, do I get that question all the time?
From being on an active roster to now. But the truth is probably a lot of people don't even know you're retired. Yeah, I mean, do I get that question all the time?
That's what I mean. Like, how many would you picture empty seats? Like, third level.
That's what I mean. Like, how many would you picture empty seats? Like, third level.
Is that what that is? Yeah, when the background's blurry. Oh.
Is that what that is? Yeah, when the background's blurry. Oh.
Director. Animorphic. Whatever you want to talk about.
Director. Animorphic. Whatever you want to talk about.
Yeah, yeah. Not good. lens cut lens flare great lens flare oh shit um did you ever not do it and was there a difference or was it just like a thing you started in high school college and then would you would it ever be like spooky like a deja vu or like that's exactly what i thought was gonna happen there's some sometimes when it like worked out exactly how i thought it was gonna happen um
Yeah, yeah. Not good. lens cut lens flare great lens flare oh shit um did you ever not do it and was there a difference or was it just like a thing you started in high school college and then would you would it ever be like spooky like a deja vu or like that's exactly what i thought was gonna happen there's some sometimes when it like worked out exactly how i thought it was gonna happen um
And did you do it when you were a bench guy? Yeah.
And did you do it when you were a bench guy? Yeah.
That visualization was tough. I'm going to sit. I'm going to be on my left butt cheek.
That visualization was tough. I'm going to sit. I'm going to be on my left butt cheek.
Yeah, look at the jumbotron. Are they running a kiss cam? Okay, that's fun. That's very entertaining. I got a big kick out of that. That was actually real nice. Yeah, you know what? Kudos to the in-arena entertainment. That's good. To ask questions about other guys on the team, that's real creative. So you think it had a big effect on outcomes? Because I started doing it. I've stopped.
Yeah, look at the jumbotron. Are they running a kiss cam? Okay, that's fun. That's very entertaining. I got a big kick out of that. That was actually real nice. Yeah, you know what? Kudos to the in-arena entertainment. That's good. To ask questions about other guys on the team, that's real creative. So you think it had a big effect on outcomes? Because I started doing it. I've stopped.
Let's start over, guys. I got the wrong guy, apparently.
Let's start over, guys. I got the wrong guy, apparently.
I just forgot to do it. But no, I would actually write. I started just writing out my act. And if I do a TV appearance, I would write it out and try to imagine what it would be like in each beat of the thing. And you can actually write new things in it. You would write out your script?
I just forgot to do it. But no, I would actually write. I started just writing out my act. And if I do a TV appearance, I would write it out and try to imagine what it would be like in each beat of the thing. And you can actually write new things in it. You would write out your script?
I mean, a lot of it was just a bit I'd already done on stage. But it was like, it is a helpful way to... to like to prep.
I mean, a lot of it was just a bit I'd already done on stage. But it was like, it is a helpful way to... to like to prep.
What about... Would you do it in-game, meaning you get the ball, was it just instinct or was it like – No, in-game, like I'm not like visualizing anything.
What about... Would you do it in-game, meaning you get the ball, was it just instinct or was it like – No, in-game, like I'm not like visualizing anything.
about um and I did my time and I I I don't know I'm just I'm just in I'm in a good place and I'm I'm I'm happy with that and I hope that more guys experience this than yeah get a wide because he's really retired I mean this is not a guy who's at yeah I mean that's look at those loafers shoes they're boy this guy's wearing boat shoes yeah
about um and I did my time and I I I don't know I'm just I'm just in I'm in a good place and I'm I'm I'm happy with that and I hope that more guys experience this than yeah get a wide because he's really retired I mean this is not a guy who's at yeah I mean that's look at those loafers shoes they're boy this guy's wearing boat shoes yeah
Yes. And if you, and is it just like, if I like, there's no one on help, someone will probably come and help D. Yeah. And then like, I can, I'm fucking.
Yes. And if you, and is it just like, if I like, there's no one on help, someone will probably come and help D. Yeah. And then like, I can, I'm fucking.
am i right john stockton actually actually you know what you're um a rare uh p word drop for me on the podcast we like to keep it a little clean oh we never talked about your general racial or racial ambiguity although that is that yeah that's racial ambiguity we never talked about that as a block the table's like it's it's hard it's hard to write there's like see it's like
am i right john stockton actually actually you know what you're um a rare uh p word drop for me on the podcast we like to keep it a little clean oh we never talked about your general racial or racial ambiguity although that is that yeah that's racial ambiguity we never talked about that as a block the table's like it's it's hard it's hard to write there's like see it's like
I thought you were going to say it's your complexion. I wish.
I thought you were going to say it's your complexion. I wish.
Can this economy have a smokey walnut? I wouldn't be here, I'll tell you that much. That's got to be something that's pretty resolved at this point, right?
Can this economy have a smokey walnut? I wouldn't be here, I'll tell you that much. That's got to be something that's pretty resolved at this point, right?
What was interesting, you said one time players would say, players in the NBA would say such things.
What was interesting, you said one time players would say, players in the NBA would say such things.
Did you ever think that it probably had to help your marketability? Yeah. I mean, honestly, like a whitish looking guy to jump like that. Kind of. It's like what I used to say to you and Kevin Love. If you can't get an announcing job when you retire, you're fucking you have to be. I used to say regarded. But like, no, not anymore. Yeah.
Did you ever think that it probably had to help your marketability? Yeah. I mean, honestly, like a whitish looking guy to jump like that. Kind of. It's like what I used to say to you and Kevin Love. If you can't get an announcing job when you retire, you're fucking you have to be. I used to say regarded. But like, no, not anymore. Yeah.
Like if you can't get it and sure enough, uh, you got it, you landed it, buddy. Um, but, uh, but yeah, so yeah, that's gotta be, and that's another one of those things that you think is going to be a problem. And then like, it ends up being, it's not, yeah, it's like not a, it's not a problem at all.
Like if you can't get it and sure enough, uh, you got it, you landed it, buddy. Um, but, uh, but yeah, so yeah, that's gotta be, and that's another one of those things that you think is going to be a problem. And then like, it ends up being, it's not, yeah, it's like not a, it's not a problem at all.
I got a standing reservation. There's a really nice cafeteria down the street, Luby's Cafe. I told you, your life might actually be better then you're one of the few guys that, like, life might improve. And I don't know if it improved. Well, it's going to be close. I mean, it seems just like all the benefits and almost no stress.
I got a standing reservation. There's a really nice cafeteria down the street, Luby's Cafe. I told you, your life might actually be better then you're one of the few guys that, like, life might improve. And I don't know if it improved. Well, it's going to be close. I mean, it seems just like all the benefits and almost no stress.
Yeah, yeah. The fancy is like whatever they deliver very fancy packages. Yeah. White gloves. When you're like, sure, do you want insurance on this? I'm like, oh, yes.
Yeah, yeah. The fancy is like whatever they deliver very fancy packages. Yeah. White gloves. When you're like, sure, do you want insurance on this? I'm like, oh, yes.
You can have an off night, but not for lack of effort. Yeah.
You can have an off night, but not for lack of effort. Yeah.
Blake Griffin, ladies and gentlemen. Watch him on Amazon six months from now. Good guy. Friend of all podcasts. And maybe he does stand-up sometimes. We don't know. But a good guy. I'm glad I know him. Thanks for having me, man. Thank you.
Blake Griffin, ladies and gentlemen. Watch him on Amazon six months from now. Good guy. Friend of all podcasts. And maybe he does stand-up sometimes. We don't know. But a good guy. I'm glad I know him. Thanks for having me, man. Thank you.
They call me in. Okay, so that's good. So you don't feel in any way reduced, which is great. You maybe even feel, because you still get to keep all the money. And you have, you're basically committed to a girl and you're in a committed relationship and you got kids, so there's no like, you're not on the prowl in any way anymore.
They call me in. Okay, so that's good. So you don't feel in any way reduced, which is great. You maybe even feel, because you still get to keep all the money. And you have, you're basically committed to a girl and you're in a committed relationship and you got kids, so there's no like, you're not on the prowl in any way anymore.
You shut the fuck up, Angelo. Five times. Five times for, well, All-NBA. And I believe he'll be in the Hall of Fame. He'll run his speech by me. I'll give him notes. He'll ignore them. And he's the new Red Lobster spokesman, which nobody saw coming. I make Red Lobster famous. And he's about to be on the Amazon...
You shut the fuck up, Angelo. Five times. Five times for, well, All-NBA. And I believe he'll be in the Hall of Fame. He'll run his speech by me. I'll give him notes. He'll ignore them. And he's the new Red Lobster spokesman, which nobody saw coming. I make Red Lobster famous. And he's about to be on the Amazon...
Because that's another question I have, which is like, knowing you,
Because that's another question I have, which is like, knowing you,
enough to know that that must have driven you fucking crazy yeah absolutely bananas and uh fucking off the wall can't sleep for days um what did you tell yourself because i also found that you were you were your your inner monologue was always very positive at least from as you presented it to me how was it how would it be did it stay positive or did you feel delusional or did you have to lie to yourself
enough to know that that must have driven you fucking crazy yeah absolutely bananas and uh fucking off the wall can't sleep for days um what did you tell yourself because i also found that you were you were your your inner monologue was always very positive at least from as you presented it to me how was it how would it be did it stay positive or did you feel delusional or did you have to lie to yourself
I'll dive on the floor. What do you need from me? Get the crowd hype. Like you'll fall and throw the ball off the guy, that kind of thing.
I'll dive on the floor. What do you need from me? Get the crowd hype. Like you'll fall and throw the ball off the guy, that kind of thing.
Whichever you want. Not that one. Okay, sorry. Did you... what is the arc of realizing you don't your body's not the same no you just feel it i mean and and you go you wake whether you wake up or you go to gym or whatever you're like i can't can i jump higher couldn't i get more lift and then you go it'll come back and then it just never does
Whichever you want. Not that one. Okay, sorry. Did you... what is the arc of realizing you don't your body's not the same no you just feel it i mean and and you go you wake whether you wake up or you go to gym or whatever you're like i can't can i jump higher couldn't i get more lift and then you go it'll come back and then it just never does
pre-game, post-game team with Dirk Nowitzki, and he's basically a retired NBA player, and now he's a full-time announcer, and he's a buddy of mine, and his name is Blake Griffin. Yay! We never did figure out how to introduce people.
pre-game, post-game team with Dirk Nowitzki, and he's basically a retired NBA player, and now he's a full-time announcer, and he's a buddy of mine, and his name is Blake Griffin. Yay! We never did figure out how to introduce people.
The team got me life alert. When you talk about mentoring, is it about playing or is it about the whole thing? Because that was the thing. Seeing your evolution from your rookie year to elder statesman mentor, were there things you wish you knew? And are those things even teachable? Can you be, could I, I remember telling you, keep a journal.
The team got me life alert. When you talk about mentoring, is it about playing or is it about the whole thing? Because that was the thing. Seeing your evolution from your rookie year to elder statesman mentor, were there things you wish you knew? And are those things even teachable? Can you be, could I, I remember telling you, keep a journal.
when maybe your third year on the Clippers, because I could see how interesting it was, and you were probably just like, my fucking old man, shut the fuck up. What's a journal? I don't know how to write. So what does mentorship in that capacity look like? And then what do you wish you knew?
when maybe your third year on the Clippers, because I could see how interesting it was, and you were probably just like, my fucking old man, shut the fuck up. What's a journal? I don't know how to write. So what does mentorship in that capacity look like? And then what do you wish you knew?
What's some not so great wisdom? Not me attributing to anybody, but like a thing that sticks out is like, man, that's stupid.
What's some not so great wisdom? Not me attributing to anybody, but like a thing that sticks out is like, man, that's stupid.
Well, I'm not that. Save the Toblerone.
Well, I'm not that. Save the Toblerone.
I didn't know if I was supposed to be quiet. No, it's fun. It's fun when people intercede. All right, well, here's a question I have. Having spoken to you for a long time about just your life and being an NBA player, Were you happy with your life change from being full-time NBA player to being retired and having a lot more free time? And it seemed like you may have enjoyed the more anonymity.
I didn't know if I was supposed to be quiet. No, it's fun. It's fun when people intercede. All right, well, here's a question I have. Having spoken to you for a long time about just your life and being an NBA player, Were you happy with your life change from being full-time NBA player to being retired and having a lot more free time? And it seemed like you may have enjoyed the more anonymity.
Hey, before you watch this thing, hit subscribe, would you? Hi, Neil Brennan here. It's the Blocks Podcast. My guest today is a guy I've known vaguely, not vaguely, I don't know what the right word is, vaguely insulting.
Hey, before you watch this thing, hit subscribe, would you? Hi, Neil Brennan here. It's the Blocks Podcast. My guest today is a guy I've known vaguely, not vaguely, I don't know what the right word is, vaguely insulting.
I was a little late on the ah. Is the logo out? Great. Good job, Neil. I was late on the ah. See, the second swallow is the hard part. Ah, Huel. Nailed it.
I was a little late on the ah. Is the logo out? Great. Good job, Neil. I was late on the ah. See, the second swallow is the hard part. Ah, Huel. Nailed it.
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guys this show is sponsored by better help i don't know if you've seen this podcast but all we do is talk about mental health and uh things to make you feel like something's wrong with you and you know what can help you figure that stuff out therapy yep therapy ever heard of it it's a new thing invented a hundred years ago by sigmund freud i've gone to therapy a lot in my life i've started again recently it
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Visit BetterHelp.com slash NEAL to get 10% off your first month. That's BetterHelp, B-E-T-T-E-R-H-E-L-P dot com slash NEAL. BetterHelp.com slash NEAL. Help. You need help. Okay, well, this is the... one of your things, which is who gets to define what's black, what's black enough. Yeah. So...
Visit BetterHelp.com slash NEAL to get 10% off your first month. That's BetterHelp, B-E-T-T-E-R-H-E-L-P dot com slash NEAL. BetterHelp.com slash NEAL. Help. You need help. Okay, well, this is the... one of your things, which is who gets to define what's black, what's black enough. Yeah. So...
So there's a real pretty clear conflict, which is upholding a rare black icon, an icon that important, but also a commitment to justice. And... I mean, but again, I would say that's most of, a lot of your conflicts just born out.
So there's a real pretty clear conflict, which is upholding a rare black icon, an icon that important, but also a commitment to justice. And... I mean, but again, I would say that's most of, a lot of your conflicts just born out.
Like, well, that's just another clear example of it. And what do you, is that a thing that you were aware of that's just in you? Because you are, both your parents are black, right?
Like, well, that's just another clear example of it. And what do you, is that a thing that you were aware of that's just in you? Because you are, both your parents are black, right?
So, and you had a Netflix special called Private School Negro. So I'm assuming you are one or went to private school. So you're having just a sort of an experience in conflict from the very beginning.
So, and you had a Netflix special called Private School Negro. So I'm assuming you are one or went to private school. So you're having just a sort of an experience in conflict from the very beginning.
Well, yeah. All right, well, that's one of your blocks is what's a regular black person?
Well, yeah. All right, well, that's one of your blocks is what's a regular black person?
Who gets the lion's share of it? Is it Toni Morrison?
Who gets the lion's share of it? Is it Toni Morrison?
Yeah, or Maya Angelou. Who's like the... Because every white one is Mark Twain and Albert Einstein.
Yeah, or Maya Angelou. Who's like the... Because every white one is Mark Twain and Albert Einstein.
Okay, great. And so you sort of... You're not bouncing between them, but those are your two main influences.
Okay, great. And so you sort of... You're not bouncing between them, but those are your two main influences.
Oh, so they split up? Yeah, they split up before I was even aware that they were together. Oh, great.
Oh, so they split up? Yeah, they split up before I was even aware that they were together. Oh, great.
So your dad was in Boston, your mom was in the South?
So your dad was in Boston, your mom was in the South?
Does that, okay, so, because obviously you, I'm sure it made you feel isolated and like, you know, maybe lonely, maybe.
Does that, okay, so, because obviously you, I'm sure it made you feel isolated and like, you know, maybe lonely, maybe.
Yeah, you're in conversation with yourself. All the time, yeah. Because, okay, so then it, one, when you get into high school, college, young adult, do you feel like, is it, did you care about fitting in?
Yeah, you're in conversation with yourself. All the time, yeah. Because, okay, so then it, one, when you get into high school, college, young adult, do you feel like, is it, did you care about fitting in?
You didn't even need to tell us that. Come on, please. Us three?
You didn't even need to tell us that. Come on, please. Us three?
A little better than Vague Plus. Yeah, Vague Plus. For, I don't know, 12, 15 years. And he had a show on FX. And he made an excellent Bill Cosby documentary that we'll talk about. He's on tour. He's on a tour called Who's With Me? Yeah. And he's wearing the merch and not for sale. Don't look for it. And he's in part of a new book called Who Is Government?
A little better than Vague Plus. Yeah, Vague Plus. For, I don't know, 12, 15 years. And he had a show on FX. And he made an excellent Bill Cosby documentary that we'll talk about. He's on tour. He's on a tour called Who's With Me? Yeah. And he's wearing the merch and not for sale. Don't look for it. And he's in part of a new book called Who Is Government?
message boards um did it so there a part of me feels like because there was no expect did you feel pressure to meet social expectations or was it like alleviated because like i'm an only child so i don't even know because you're always gonna because again i'm on this i'm in hyde park with the south side of chicago which is like
message boards um did it so there a part of me feels like because there was no expect did you feel pressure to meet social expectations or was it like alleviated because like i'm an only child so i don't even know because you're always gonna because again i'm on this i'm in hyde park with the south side of chicago which is like
Do you have brothers and sisters that are, that have black children?
Do you have brothers and sisters that are, that have black children?
Oh, so cousins, is there any, is there any sort of immersion program you can, you can bring them to?
Oh, so cousins, is there any, is there any sort of immersion program you can, you can bring them to?
But you made your, you couldn't help it, and you probably, you didn't fight yourself much on it? No, I didn't fight myself on it. Because it feels like a form of freedom in a weird way. Like, if there's no, if you're an only child, you're bouncing between your parents. Like, no one is kind of keeping track of you in a good way.
But you made your, you couldn't help it, and you probably, you didn't fight yourself much on it? No, I didn't fight myself on it. Because it feels like a form of freedom in a weird way. Like, if there's no, if you're an only child, you're bouncing between your parents. Like, no one is kind of keeping track of you in a good way.
And, like, you don't fit any one thing, so it's like you can grow in an unencumbered way.
And, like, you don't fit any one thing, so it's like you can grow in an unencumbered way.
So you thought, what? You thought that because it wasn't... I guess you weren't deeply rooted in any one thing.
So you thought, what? You thought that because it wasn't... I guess you weren't deeply rooted in any one thing.
It's so funny. You can't even really explain it to people.
It's so funny. You can't even really explain it to people.
It was so cool, but people didn't know how cool it was.
It was so cool, but people didn't know how cool it was.
Well, do you think that you're married now? Does your wife give a shit about your hobbies? Because I don't know of many women who are like, comic books, yay, kung fu, me too.
Well, do you think that you're married now? Does your wife give a shit about your hobbies? Because I don't know of many women who are like, comic books, yay, kung fu, me too.
And do you look back and think, would you want your kids to sort of come up that way? I guess, is that even a thing you think about? Is that the best way?
And do you look back and think, would you want your kids to sort of come up that way? I guess, is that even a thing you think about? Is that the best way?
As a weed, it's like, you know, do you – is that – that's a style of like personal development. It seems – you could very easily tell me that that's the best way to raise somebody or the best way for a person to develop and I wouldn't argue with that.
As a weed, it's like, you know, do you – is that – that's a style of like personal development. It seems – you could very easily tell me that that's the best way to raise somebody or the best way for a person to develop and I wouldn't argue with that.
But there's an advantage to it in that you can like adjust and you can find things that you wouldn't normally find.
But there's an advantage to it in that you can like adjust and you can find things that you wouldn't normally find.
So you're not in the conflicts kind of over? Or is it over? Do you know what I mean? Like, obviously your blocks are like about race and racial identity. Is it...
So you're not in the conflicts kind of over? Or is it over? Do you know what I mean? Like, obviously your blocks are like about race and racial identity. Is it...
Oh, you're talking about just income.
Oh, you're talking about just income.
Look, some people are going to fire bomb our house.
Look, some people are going to fire bomb our house.
How did you take them? When you know things are about to get ugly, do you just have to reaffirm your ideology or your approach to the documentary? Because obviously it's just about are we living in a just society or not?
How did you take them? When you know things are about to get ugly, do you just have to reaffirm your ideology or your approach to the documentary? Because obviously it's just about are we living in a just society or not?
Yeah, that's the way you're waving it.
Yeah, that's the way you're waving it.
But sort of... Yeah, the bad news is Bill Cosby's a fucking amazing comedian.
But sort of... Yeah, the bad news is Bill Cosby's a fucking amazing comedian.
Like, incredible. And a really bright dude and important to black history and American history.
Like, incredible. And a really bright dude and important to black history and American history.
I got into an argument with somebody, and I'll tell you who it was after off the air, where I said he was a black comedian, and he said that Cosby's legacy was kind of ruined, not by the documentary, just by what happened, right? Yeah, yeah, yeah. And I said... I think the thing he did can't be undone. Meaning, if one of the ideas of The Cosby Show was to show to black urban professionals.
I got into an argument with somebody, and I'll tell you who it was after off the air, where I said he was a black comedian, and he said that Cosby's legacy was kind of ruined, not by the documentary, just by what happened, right? Yeah, yeah, yeah. And I said... I think the thing he did can't be undone. Meaning, if one of the ideas of The Cosby Show was to show to black urban professionals.
Well, this raises an interesting question about bodily autonomy. Do you think, if you're dealing with an older black woman, that there is something to just saying, bodily autonomy is overrated? And like, there's no way she doesn't mean well.
Well, this raises an interesting question about bodily autonomy. Do you think, if you're dealing with an older black woman, that there is something to just saying, bodily autonomy is overrated? And like, there's no way she doesn't mean well.
Right. Or just like understood black competence.
Right. Or just like understood black competence.
There was never the you're a doctor.
There was never the you're a doctor.
They were parenting like parents.
They were parenting like parents.
I don't know, James. The 15th is coming up real soon.
I don't know, James. The 15th is coming up real soon.
And I said you can't undo what he did, which is if it's like brain surgery on white people on racist assumptions. all the white people who ingested it, let's say they're between the age of 10 and 40, by the time they found out he raped people, they're 40 and 70.
And I said you can't undo what he did, which is if it's like brain surgery on white people on racist assumptions. all the white people who ingested it, let's say they're between the age of 10 and 40, by the time they found out he raped people, they're 40 and 70.
Yes, so I'm like, he did what he did, and it was like actually weirdly tense, but I think I'm right. What do you think?
Yes, so I'm like, he did what he did, and it was like actually weirdly tense, but I think I'm right. What do you think?
And yet somehow racism persisted. Exactly.
And yet somehow racism persisted. Exactly.
Yeah. Now. Yeah. See, I couldn't have me on that island. Yeah. So so I guess what I'm saying is like was the was do you think people's. reaction was performative, meaning the defending the honor of this man, which I think you kind of did anyway.
Yeah. Now. Yeah. See, I couldn't have me on that island. Yeah. So so I guess what I'm saying is like was the was do you think people's. reaction was performative, meaning the defending the honor of this man, which I think you kind of did anyway.
Right, and often more fertile than what becomes the reality.
Right, and often more fertile than what becomes the reality.
It's kind of like served you right for liking Kamau Bell.
It's kind of like served you right for liking Kamau Bell.
They may be where you took kung fu classes in 1988. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
They may be where you took kung fu classes in 1988. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Yeah. And also you had the same feelings.
Yeah. And also you had the same feelings.
Do you know what I mean? Like, it's not like you were like, no, fuck him a hundred percent.
Do you know what I mean? Like, it's not like you were like, no, fuck him a hundred percent.
And I also feel like the defense is like, are you pro-rape or not? Like, that's the thing. It's like, so you're saying if you make a certain amount of work, you can rape. That's what their argument is. Literally, there are people saying that. I mean, that's the understood, that's the tacit argument.
And I also feel like the defense is like, are you pro-rape or not? Like, that's the thing. It's like, so you're saying if you make a certain amount of work, you can rape. That's what their argument is. Literally, there are people saying that. I mean, that's the understood, that's the tacit argument.
Yeah. Hold on. I'm getting a Harvey Weinstein update.
Yeah. Hold on. I'm getting a Harvey Weinstein update.
How they, you know, white people were just getting away with it left and right.
How they, you know, white people were just getting away with it left and right.
Yeah, but then the argument is like, well, we have to get every single white person before we go to cosmic. I would say the argument is if you're going to be black and successful, you got to be careful.
Yeah, but then the argument is like, well, we have to get every single white person before we go to cosmic. I would say the argument is if you're going to be black and successful, you got to be careful.
I can tell you pretty definitively, Dave and Chris are not going to get rape beefs. They're both incredibly elevated, incredibly successful. There's no great beefs coming. Yeah, that's great news. Knock on wood. Okay, so you're not... No, but I'll say this.
I can tell you pretty definitively, Dave and Chris are not going to get rape beefs. They're both incredibly elevated, incredibly successful. There's no great beefs coming. Yeah, that's great news. Knock on wood. Okay, so you're not... No, but I'll say this.
And this is a thought I'm sure you've had, but it's so fucked up that this is what everyone's aspiring, you're what everyone wants their kids to be. The editors of Essence, the people who are putting together this list for this party. And by the way, a lot of their kids are this.
And this is a thought I'm sure you've had, but it's so fucked up that this is what everyone's aspiring, you're what everyone wants their kids to be. The editors of Essence, the people who are putting together this list for this party. And by the way, a lot of their kids are this.
But it's like, yeah, but he's kind of a bitch, but my son...
But it's like, yeah, but he's kind of a bitch, but my son...
Did you kind of hope that it wouldn't, like when you're ghost dogging it, Ghost Dog was a movie from the late 90s. Jesus. Did you game this out like I'm probably going to get sort of marginalized within black press or black culture, but that's OK? Or were you like, well, maybe maybe they'll be a little something.
Did you kind of hope that it wouldn't, like when you're ghost dogging it, Ghost Dog was a movie from the late 90s. Jesus. Did you game this out like I'm probably going to get sort of marginalized within black press or black culture, but that's OK? Or were you like, well, maybe maybe they'll be a little something.
Well, that's funny when you laughed at the affection, I'm like, you just did it. But now I realize like, no, no, no, no.
Well, that's funny when you laughed at the affection, I'm like, you just did it. But now I realize like, no, no, no, no.
Well, you were doing white people's bidding. So of course.
Well, you were doing white people's bidding. So of course.
Right, but do you think Dream Hampton directed it? Yeah, Dream Hampton. Do you think she had the same trials that you did? Dream Hampton doesn't give a shit. Yeah, but I'm saying, I guess what I'm saying is, do you think because she's a woman talking about assault?
Right, but do you think Dream Hampton directed it? Yeah, Dream Hampton. Do you think she had the same trials that you did? Dream Hampton doesn't give a shit. Yeah, but I'm saying, I guess what I'm saying is, do you think because she's a woman talking about assault?
Oh, I was going to go the other way, which is, it's like, well, if you're a woman, you can make a documentary about men raping women, but if you're a man, you shouldn't.
Oh, I was going to go the other way, which is, it's like, well, if you're a woman, you can make a documentary about men raping women, but if you're a man, you shouldn't.
I totally believe she had it worse.
I totally believe she had it worse.
And do you think it's a good thing to have in their diet?
And do you think it's a good thing to have in their diet?
And did you, is it kind of like, you've heard that hostage negotiation thing where the best thing you can say is, if I hear you correctly, and kind of read back their list of grievances?
And did you, is it kind of like, you've heard that hostage negotiation thing where the best thing you can say is, if I hear you correctly, and kind of read back their list of grievances?
And by the way, their grievance isn't with you. It's with another black comedian named Bill Cosby.
And by the way, their grievance isn't with you. It's with another black comedian named Bill Cosby.
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Yeah. You know, you know, I don't know if you heard, but your mom wants you to call her. That's all they ever want. Would you call me? Would you put you or your dad was like, would you call your mother? This Mother's Day, you can give her a call, of course, and give her an Aura digital picture frame. Surprise, Ma. I live pretty much far away from everybody in my family.
My mom, probably the furthest. Miss her all the time. I put her in the old Aura frame, guys. She made it. Congratulations, Mom. You're 90. Come on into the frame. There's a funny picture of her and a buddy of mine in the Aura frame. It reminds me of both of them. And or you can buy your parents an Oriframe, buy your mom an Oriframe and put yourself in it. So she always has to think of you.
My mom, probably the furthest. Miss her all the time. I put her in the old Aura frame, guys. She made it. Congratulations, Mom. You're 90. Come on into the frame. There's a funny picture of her and a buddy of mine in the Aura frame. It reminds me of both of them. And or you can buy your parents an Oriframe, buy your mom an Oriframe and put yourself in it. So she always has to think of you.
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That's 10% off your first bidet order at hellotushy.com with promo code NEAL. hellotushy.com promo code NEAL. I'm going to make your butt better. Well, that's one of your blocks is smart for a comedian. Yeah. So I'm not far from that. Yeah. But it does make a you do it. It is a it's a recipe for judgment within yourself of like, why aren't you silly? Why aren't you more clownish?
That's 10% off your first bidet order at hellotushy.com with promo code NEAL. hellotushy.com promo code NEAL. I'm going to make your butt better. Well, that's one of your blocks is smart for a comedian. Yeah. So I'm not far from that. Yeah. But it does make a you do it. It is a it's a recipe for judgment within yourself of like, why aren't you silly? Why aren't you more clownish?
Or why aren't you, at least you can hide behind like black pride. I have no excuse. No, no, no.
Or why aren't you, at least you can hide behind like black pride. I have no excuse. No, no, no.
Fuck that stool. Yeah, I'm supposed to. You're too dignified for that. uh but yeah so so is that part i guess it's part of the same thing of like what you know it's like i mean i remember the night before chappelle shows came out a black dude came up to dave unsolicited and said how is your show gonna work you're too black for white people and too white for black people
Fuck that stool. Yeah, I'm supposed to. You're too dignified for that. uh but yeah so so is that part i guess it's part of the same thing of like what you know it's like i mean i remember the night before chappelle shows came out a black dude came up to dave unsolicited and said how is your show gonna work you're too black for white people and too white for black people
Like for a bit, it was so crazy. And I'm sure the guy's like, I was right. Whatever, not like I'm sure. But how have you navigated it?
Like for a bit, it was so crazy. And I'm sure the guy's like, I was right. Whatever, not like I'm sure. But how have you navigated it?
There's a saying about basically Northern racism and Southern racism. It's like in the South, they want black people to be seen.
There's a saying about basically Northern racism and Southern racism. It's like in the South, they want black people to be seen.
I have this conversation in my head all the time. I'm like, why can't I just be fucking – big band or whatever. It's like, I don't know, Neil, that's just not what you are.
I have this conversation in my head all the time. I'm like, why can't I just be fucking – big band or whatever. It's like, I don't know, Neil, that's just not what you are.
That I haven't picked up on that. Well, not only smart, geniuses.
That I haven't picked up on that. Well, not only smart, geniuses.
And I think that, like, for me, I always want to... And unfortunately, so do their massive audiences.
And I think that, like, for me, I always want to... And unfortunately, so do their massive audiences.
a claim for their for their intelligence when it's really it's like no it's their intelligence compared to other comedians and it's also their it's it's not even their intelligence their charisma their cult of personality yeah it's like their charisma otherwise it's not like if you read their ideas you wouldn't know yeah no and i and i think it's always important to understand that like no no i'm smart amongst this cadre of people yeah but smart people look at me like yeah yeah yeah um black enough who gets to find what's black and is do you have an answer
a claim for their for their intelligence when it's really it's like no it's their intelligence compared to other comedians and it's also their it's it's not even their intelligence their charisma their cult of personality yeah it's like their charisma otherwise it's not like if you read their ideas you wouldn't know yeah no and i and i think it's always important to understand that like no no i'm smart amongst this cadre of people yeah but smart people look at me like yeah yeah yeah um black enough who gets to find what's black and is do you have an answer
Who finally at the end gets to define what's black? I mean, the only good news is it seems to be expanding the definition.
Who finally at the end gets to define what's black? I mean, the only good news is it seems to be expanding the definition.
You shouldn't be afraid of them. Where are you? Do you think, to our shared joke of atheism being white privilege, Is it also black nerd privilege? Like, what's your take on religion with your kids?
You shouldn't be afraid of them. Where are you? Do you think, to our shared joke of atheism being white privilege, Is it also black nerd privilege? Like, what's your take on religion with your kids?
Well, it's the necessity thing. Yeah, what do you mean? Black people needed God. Yeah, yeah, for sure, for sure.
Well, it's the necessity thing. Yeah, what do you mean? Black people needed God. Yeah, yeah, for sure, for sure.
Right, like they may not, they're East Bay mix kids, so they can, you know, wear scarves.
Right, like they may not, they're East Bay mix kids, so they can, you know, wear scarves.
I mean, my parents both grew up, my dad grew up super poor and my mom grew up, but I never, we'd go back, like, I don't know. It's just like, that's weird. If you're like, you grow up that way, you're like, I'm sure you grew up richer than your parents. It's not something you think about.
I mean, my parents both grew up, my dad grew up super poor and my mom grew up, but I never, we'd go back, like, I don't know. It's just like, that's weird. If you're like, you grow up that way, you're like, I'm sure you grew up richer than your parents. It's not something you think about.
Yeah, we're not getting this because of we're getting this because people are shallow. Yeah People think your dad is something and so yeah black comedy verse being a black comedian Do we cover that? I think we basically cover that that's all right. Well, here's okay direct ways and not direct ways Okay fear of doing things the regular way. I we've definitely covered. Okay. Yeah, finally America
Yeah, we're not getting this because of we're getting this because people are shallow. Yeah People think your dad is something and so yeah black comedy verse being a black comedian Do we cover that? I think we basically cover that that's all right. Well, here's okay direct ways and not direct ways Okay fear of doing things the regular way. I we've definitely covered. Okay. Yeah, finally America
It's the first time somebody's had America as a block. Yeah. President Trump, go ahead. What's your problem?
It's the first time somebody's had America as a block. Yeah. President Trump, go ahead. What's your problem?
But more lynchings are in the South than the North, correct?
But more lynchings are in the South than the North, correct?
You both... Trump doesn't think America's doing it right either. It's just everyone thinks we're doing it wrong, but for completely different reasons.
You both... Trump doesn't think America's doing it right either. It's just everyone thinks we're doing it wrong, but for completely different reasons.
Cause everybody, a lot of liberals say that.
Cause everybody, a lot of liberals say that.
Look up immigration in other countries.
Look up immigration in other countries.
I mean, everybody was, we all knew Ghana.
I mean, everybody was, we all knew Ghana.
But that's, what's funny is, is because of the, your sort of cultural bent, you go New Zealand and Canada. I was, my first thought was Ghana, but I, Is part of being black in America or being black in the world is just a numbers game of like America is still 65 percent white people. Like it's just a market thing of like, well, what's the where is the market?
But that's, what's funny is, is because of the, your sort of cultural bent, you go New Zealand and Canada. I was, my first thought was Ghana, but I, Is part of being black in America or being black in the world is just a numbers game of like America is still 65 percent white people. Like it's just a market thing of like, well, what's the where is the market?
There's more eyeballs, there's more ears, whatever in white people than black people or in the world. Same thing.
There's more eyeballs, there's more ears, whatever in white people than black people or in the world. Same thing.
Oh, I wanted to tell an anecdote about you, which will make anyone who hears it like you, I believe. I had a joke in my Blocks Netflix special, which was... Atheism is really like the height of white privilege. It really is, because religion basically says, like, hey, can we interest you in an afterlife? And white people are like, oh, no, thank you.
Oh, I wanted to tell an anecdote about you, which will make anyone who hears it like you, I believe. I had a joke in my Blocks Netflix special, which was... Atheism is really like the height of white privilege. It really is, because religion basically says, like, hey, can we interest you in an afterlife? And white people are like, oh, no, thank you.
whatever happens don't do you do you not think do you think uh you don't think racism is just a in in inherent human instinct you think it's especially american meaning like you think new zealand is exempt well no no first of all
whatever happens don't do you do you not think do you think uh you don't think racism is just a in in inherent human instinct you think it's especially american meaning like you think new zealand is exempt well no no first of all
What's funny is I'm just thinking it could be a movie. Yeah. If you move to Ghana and just change your black identity. Yeah. Until you were super militant. Yeah, yeah, yeah. And you rewrote your whole... It's like when you moved to a new town.
What's funny is I'm just thinking it could be a movie. Yeah. If you move to Ghana and just change your black identity. Yeah. Until you were super militant. Yeah, yeah, yeah. And you rewrote your whole... It's like when you moved to a new town.
And like, oh, no, I'm as black as everybody.
And like, oh, no, I'm as black as everybody.
First and foremost, nice to meet you. Fuck white people.
First and foremost, nice to meet you. Fuck white people.
In some ways, I think you're fighting for literally the climate, the physical climate, the weather where you are, and the time zone. Literally, whenever I hear about corporations, we're going to threaten to move to Portugal. It's like, all right, well, you're going to have to wake up in the middle of the night to check in on your kids and your grandma and your friends.
In some ways, I think you're fighting for literally the climate, the physical climate, the weather where you are, and the time zone. Literally, whenever I hear about corporations, we're going to threaten to move to Portugal. It's like, all right, well, you're going to have to wake up in the middle of the night to check in on your kids and your grandma and your friends.
Your life's going to be demonstrably worse.
Your life's going to be demonstrably worse.
It's about, it's the untold story of public service edited by Michael Lewis. And his name is W. Kamau Bell.
It's about, it's the untold story of public service edited by Michael Lewis. And his name is W. Kamau Bell.
Let's just focus on black people who voted for Trump, which whatever, who knows how big the percentage was.
Let's just focus on black people who voted for Trump, which whatever, who knows how big the percentage was.
Most people didn't care about Project 2025.
Most people didn't care about Project 2025.
The editor told me, I think Kamau Bell did this joke. I text you and say, I have this joke. What should I do? And you said, use it. It was on one of my specials that wasn't popular enough anyway. So you were like, you know what? Fuck me. You take it.
The editor told me, I think Kamau Bell did this joke. I text you and say, I have this joke. What should I do? And you said, use it. It was on one of my specials that wasn't popular enough anyway. So you were like, you know what? Fuck me. You take it.
Yeah, we think everybody's like obsessed.
Yeah, we think everybody's like obsessed.
yeah well what do you make of the liberal firing squad as a as a democrat what do you make of the the cannibalization that that democrats what do you mean as far as like nobody's ever doing it right the purity test and nobody there is no such thing as a good democrat it's just like i do think that we that there is this that we have to understand that like
yeah well what do you make of the liberal firing squad as a as a democrat what do you make of the the cannibalization that that democrats what do you mean as far as like nobody's ever doing it right the purity test and nobody there is no such thing as a good democrat it's just like i do think that we that there is this that we have to understand that like
Like, I can't. Well, I guess my other question is, like, what... Doing something is better than doing nothing. Yes, but AOC might not win a general election. AOC will win her. Bernie will win their. Or you're suspicious of that. You think maybe they can. AOC won her district and Trump won her district.
Like, I can't. Well, I guess my other question is, like, what... Doing something is better than doing nothing. Yes, but AOC might not win a general election. AOC will win her. Bernie will win their. Or you're suspicious of that. You think maybe they can. AOC won her district and Trump won her district.
So I guess it's like what – I don't even know what the right approach is for Democrats in terms of – Obviously, Chuck Schumer is, like, negative charisma. Negative charisma. Yeah. So, like, I don't know who the future is. Or is Josh Shapiro too mild? Was Obama a disappointment?
So I guess it's like what – I don't even know what the right approach is for Democrats in terms of – Obviously, Chuck Schumer is, like, negative charisma. Negative charisma. Yeah. So, like, I don't know who the future is. Or is Josh Shapiro too mild? Was Obama a disappointment?
Well, yeah, you have once you if your commitment is to remain holding on to your job, then you're you're already fucked.
Well, yeah, you have once you if your commitment is to remain holding on to your job, then you're you're already fucked.
Yeah, but it was such a commendable take on like, no, there's got to be some standard. Like, fuck me. I didn't break through on that.
Yeah, but it was such a commendable take on like, no, there's got to be some standard. Like, fuck me. I didn't break through on that.
literally and a different approach in terms of like more molotov cocktails of just like it really has to be you can't if you it's so fucked yeah that you have to just go i'm here for one term yeah yeah yeah um like full worth it yeah if i may use the late 90s if you could use that but like i feel because thinking about like martin lincoln jr was chosen among the the pastors to delete the montgomery bus boycott they were like we need to do a boycott and rosa park same thing yeah like they were not like
literally and a different approach in terms of like more molotov cocktails of just like it really has to be you can't if you it's so fucked yeah that you have to just go i'm here for one term yeah yeah yeah um like full worth it yeah if i may use the late 90s if you could use that but like i feel because thinking about like martin lincoln jr was chosen among the the pastors to delete the montgomery bus boycott they were like we need to do a boycott and rosa park same thing yeah like they were not like
I wanna get less specific. So when you say America as a block, the whole thing with America is you, I think the, the, if we, I'm earnest, you're earnest because I'm taking America at what it claims it is and not what it's been, but what it claims to want to be. Are we naive? Do you know what I mean? Like I,
I wanna get less specific. So when you say America as a block, the whole thing with America is you, I think the, the, if we, I'm earnest, you're earnest because I'm taking America at what it claims it is and not what it's been, but what it claims to want to be. Are we naive? Do you know what I mean? Like I,
It's never been the shining... It's like always claimed to... But it's like I claim to be a lot of things I'm not. Not like... It's not that different, I hope, but maybe it is. Yeah, I think that... I think that... Human beings are involved is the problem. It's like highly faulty human beings.
It's never been the shining... It's like always claimed to... But it's like I claim to be a lot of things I'm not. Not like... It's not that different, I hope, but maybe it is. Yeah, I think that... I think that... Human beings are involved is the problem. It's like highly faulty human beings.
Yeah, with all the people that approach Trump, it's like, they're wrong, but I understand their point of view. I disagree with it. That they feel left out and they feel scorned and they felt like... looked down upon by media. It's like, they were. Yeah.
Yeah, with all the people that approach Trump, it's like, they're wrong, but I understand their point of view. I disagree with it. That they feel left out and they feel scorned and they felt like... looked down upon by media. It's like, they were. Yeah.
Yeah, I don't – a part of me thinks that what is going to happen is it's going to be like – Doe should have marketed itself as decluttering the government. It would have been way better. Like Maria Kondo does this – Does this give you joy? Does this spark joy?
Yeah, I don't – a part of me thinks that what is going to happen is it's going to be like – Doe should have marketed itself as decluttering the government. It would have been way better. Like Maria Kondo does this – Does this give you joy? Does this spark joy?
And then they could go, no, it didn't. What they're going to have to do is they're going to break a bunch of shit down and then they're going to realize the value of it. In retrospect, now hopefully the damage is going to be minimal. It's not going to be minimal. It's going to be massive and hopefully not that deadly because I also think it's going to be deadly.
And then they could go, no, it didn't. What they're going to have to do is they're going to break a bunch of shit down and then they're going to realize the value of it. In retrospect, now hopefully the damage is going to be minimal. It's not going to be minimal. It's going to be massive and hopefully not that deadly because I also think it's going to be deadly.
But I think hopefully that's the cycle. I mean, that's me being optimistic.
But I think hopefully that's the cycle. I mean, that's me being optimistic.
It's a thinkable thought. I thought it. It's not anyone. I'm not so like impossible. Yeah, exactly. Only I could have thought of it.
It's a thinkable thought. I thought it. It's not anyone. I'm not so like impossible. Yeah, exactly. Only I could have thought of it.
And it's going to be in six years when we finally look back and they finally, yeah.
And it's going to be in six years when we finally look back and they finally, yeah.
Do you think your expectation... of America is realistic. It's not realistic, but it's reasonable. Reasonable compared to what though? Meaning what country does it right? Because I'm with you. I am disappointed in America, but then I go, where else would I go?
Do you think your expectation... of America is realistic. It's not realistic, but it's reasonable. Reasonable compared to what though? Meaning what country does it right? Because I'm with you. I am disappointed in America, but then I go, where else would I go?
Kamau Bell, ladies and gentlemen. And if you're a foreign country, consider him a free agent. Like Jimmy Butler. He has expressed dissatisfaction. He's trying to find his joy.
Kamau Bell, ladies and gentlemen. And if you're a foreign country, consider him a free agent. Like Jimmy Butler. He has expressed dissatisfaction. He's trying to find his joy.
I'm trying to find my joy. Great.
I'm trying to find my joy. Great.
That's what apparently Missy Elliott and Timberland went to Prince at one point and were like, people are stealing our sound. And he's like, make a new sound. Yeah.
That's what apparently Missy Elliott and Timberland went to Prince at one point and were like, people are stealing our sound. And he's like, make a new sound. Yeah.
If you're good, make a new sound. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Whatever happened to him. Someday somebody's going to make a documentary about him.
If you're good, make a new sound. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Whatever happened to him. Someday somebody's going to make a documentary about him.
Okay. Well, speaking of... controversial documentaries. I would like to speak to you. I brought you here to talk to you about Dr. Bill Cosby. And well, I guess the question I want to ask is what was your misgivings process in terms of like, oh, do I want to do this? And then you start and you're like, oh, do I want to keep doing this? And then you finish and you go, oh, do I want to release this?
Okay. Well, speaking of... controversial documentaries. I would like to speak to you. I brought you here to talk to you about Dr. Bill Cosby. And well, I guess the question I want to ask is what was your misgivings process in terms of like, oh, do I want to do this? And then you start and you're like, oh, do I want to keep doing this? And then you finish and you go, oh, do I want to release this?
I mean, the whole way through. It's on, where is it now?
I mean, the whole way through. It's on, where is it now?
have the same thing where you hear a lot of rumors. I remember when DiCaprio was gay. I remember hearing that rumor all the time, being like, I don't know, man. I've heard so many people, this person does this.
have the same thing where you hear a lot of rumors. I remember when DiCaprio was gay. I remember hearing that rumor all the time, being like, I don't know, man. I've heard so many people, this person does this.
We rode in a van together. I remember that.
We rode in a van together. I remember that.
And you know, all right, whatever. In the Catholic Church, we would molest the kid.
And you know, all right, whatever. In the Catholic Church, we would molest the kid.
We had our own customs. Every religion is different.
We had our own customs. Every religion is different.
Oh, that's funny. Anyhow, nice to see you. Good to see you, man. How's life? You live in Berkeley? I live in Oakland, yeah. Oakland. Even blacker.
Oh, that's funny. Anyhow, nice to see you. Good to see you, man. How's life? You live in Berkeley? I live in Oakland, yeah. Oakland. Even blacker.
Well, was there a freedom in that? Was there like, yeah, maybe it'll never come out. Let's just make it how we're gonna make it.
Well, was there a freedom in that? Was there like, yeah, maybe it'll never come out. Let's just make it how we're gonna make it.
Did Oakland court you to come and live?
Did Oakland court you to come and live?
Yes. Yes. Only with the caveat that he wouldn't have to go to jail for whatever. Guys, Huel, sponsor. This is chocolate. I'm a vanilla guy. Actually, I mix chocolate and vanilla together, and that's how I do it. I like it because I don't always want to go get food. I just want to do whatever I'm doing. Writing jokes, you know, being very creative. You know how I am.
Yes. Yes. Only with the caveat that he wouldn't have to go to jail for whatever. Guys, Huel, sponsor. This is chocolate. I'm a vanilla guy. Actually, I mix chocolate and vanilla together, and that's how I do it. I like it because I don't always want to go get food. I just want to do whatever I'm doing. Writing jokes, you know, being very creative. You know how I am.
I'm not online, if that's what you're wondering. I generally do it instead of lunch. It's 400 calories. It's got... A lot of protein. It's got how much 35 grams of protein, which is 70% of what you're supposed to get in a day. It's great. I used to drink a different one of these different brand that sort of gotten really bad lately.
I'm not online, if that's what you're wondering. I generally do it instead of lunch. It's 400 calories. It's got... A lot of protein. It's got how much 35 grams of protein, which is 70% of what you're supposed to get in a day. It's great. I used to drink a different one of these different brand that sort of gotten really bad lately.
And then they people wanted to sponsor it was like, I thought you'd never ask.
And then they people wanted to sponsor it was like, I thought you'd never ask.
i also add ice to make it more of a smoothie in a blender sometimes i'll throw fruit you can add stuff you uh you throw in more powder throw in uh uh what's the skin one i can't remember it's throwing powders you know maybe my powders whatever you want to throw in you throw in it takes it nice mix it in real nice contains vitamin c which supports my immune systems we mentioned proteins already
i also add ice to make it more of a smoothie in a blender sometimes i'll throw fruit you can add stuff you uh you throw in more powder throw in uh uh what's the skin one i can't remember it's throwing powders you know maybe my powders whatever you want to throw in you throw in it takes it nice mix it in real nice contains vitamin c which supports my immune systems we mentioned proteins already
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plus a free gift this is you know i direct commercials and uh this is how you do all right so you open the logo you open the logo to camera you it's usually open so i'll open it i'm gonna shake it all right so i'll show you how you do it how the big boys do it hit pause real quick i I'll do it at the end. I'm going to do my big sip at the end. Hit play.
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New customers visit Huel.com slash N-E-A-L today and use my coupon code N-E-A-L to get 15% off your first order plus a free gift. Huel. It's delicious. What I'm going to do is I'm going to do two big gulps and then I'm going to say Huel. You do two big gulps. And then you maybe do an ah, and then you say Huel. Okay, ready? It's harder than you think. Try it at home if you got a second. Ah, Huel.
I can only imagine. What are the stats on it? Are there any stats?
I can only imagine. What are the stats on it? Are there any stats?
There are few people I know who have spent more time in comedy than Neil Brennan, like few human beings. And when I say comedy, I mean every level of comedy. TV. Administration. Yeah, no really. Paperwork. No really. Scheduling. You are that guy. Club comedy. Neil Brennan has been in the trenches of the trenches. So I was going to ask you about this, but like, I feel like
There are few people I know who have spent more time in comedy than Neil Brennan, like few human beings. And when I say comedy, I mean every level of comedy. TV. Administration. Yeah, no really. Paperwork. No really. Scheduling. You are that guy. Club comedy. Neil Brennan has been in the trenches of the trenches. So I was going to ask you about this, but like, I feel like
It was like, okay, it's about the show, it's about the work, it's about the... And now, on the other side of it, now I'm going back into more personal material. Now I'm going back into... But it's funny, I never thought it was cathartic.
It was like, okay, it's about the show, it's about the work, it's about the... And now, on the other side of it, now I'm going back into more personal material. Now I'm going back into... But it's funny, I never thought it was cathartic.
No, I'll be honest. And I don't think it's cathartic for most comedians, if I'm honest. I think what happens a lot of the time is comedians have found like a, it's almost like a shield that you can put in front of you. to seem like you are dealing with the thing, but you are not dealing with the thing. And you're speaking about it to people. So we were like, oh, wow, you're speaking about it.
No, I'll be honest. And I don't think it's cathartic for most comedians, if I'm honest. I think what happens a lot of the time is comedians have found like a, it's almost like a shield that you can put in front of you. to seem like you are dealing with the thing, but you are not dealing with the thing. And you're speaking about it to people. So we were like, oh, wow, you're speaking about it.
So you must be over it or you must be. But I don't think it's cathartic. The reason I don't think it's cathartic is because comedians get to do the thing with the audience. And that is we escape with the laugh. Do you know what I mean? And so I think real catharsis requires you to stay in something until it is released, as opposed to finding a way to escape.
So you must be over it or you must be. But I don't think it's cathartic. The reason I don't think it's cathartic is because comedians get to do the thing with the audience. And that is we escape with the laugh. Do you know what I mean? And so I think real catharsis requires you to stay in something until it is released, as opposed to finding a way to escape.
It's not avoidance. And I was thinking about this before this conversation. I was going to ask you, this generation of comedians is the first... I remember the shift. I don't know if you remember. There was a point in comedy... where we saw almost every few months a comedian committing suicide somewhere. You would just hear it. You'd walk into a comedy club. The good old days.
It's not avoidance. And I was thinking about this before this conversation. I was going to ask you, this generation of comedians is the first... I remember the shift. I don't know if you remember. There was a point in comedy... where we saw almost every few months a comedian committing suicide somewhere. You would just hear it. You'd walk into a comedy club. The good old days.
Everyone would be around. Everyone would be around a table in the club. And there'd just be like a sad feeling and you'd be like, hey, what's going on? And they'd be like, oh, did you hear about Bobby? Did you hear about blah, blah, blah? And you'd be like, what happened? They're like, oh, yeah, no, they found him in a hotel room in Pennsylvania.
Everyone would be around. Everyone would be around a table in the club. And there'd just be like a sad feeling and you'd be like, hey, what's going on? And they'd be like, oh, did you hear about Bobby? Did you hear about blah, blah, blah? And you'd be like, what happened? They're like, oh, yeah, no, they found him in a hotel room in Pennsylvania.
They found him in a hotel room in Ohio or something. They found him in a hotel room. And this was constant. And it was almost expected in many ways. Mm-hmm. And then I don't know what happened, but suddenly something shifted. All of a sudden, comedians wouldn't be ordering the chicken wings backstage. They were ordering the celery and the kale and the baby carrots and the hummus.
They found him in a hotel room in Ohio or something. They found him in a hotel room. And this was constant. And it was almost expected in many ways. Mm-hmm. And then I don't know what happened, but suddenly something shifted. All of a sudden, comedians wouldn't be ordering the chicken wings backstage. They were ordering the celery and the kale and the baby carrots and the hummus.
I'm talking about comedians from other countries as well, not just in America. Like they know Neil Brennan, right? I know some of your story, but I don't want to miss it, especially for the audience. So Neil Brennan is born where?
I'm talking about comedians from other countries as well, not just in America. Like they know Neil Brennan, right? I know some of your story, but I don't want to miss it, especially for the audience. So Neil Brennan is born where?
And then they wouldn't be ordering a drink like a cocktail or whiskey. They'd be ordering water. Yeah. And then comedians would be like, oh, yeah, I've got to leave now. I'm working out in the morning.
And then they wouldn't be ordering a drink like a cocktail or whiskey. They'd be ordering water. Yeah. And then comedians would be like, oh, yeah, I've got to leave now. I'm working out in the morning.
Performing altruism.
Performing altruism.
I always say, you know, the easiest way to see it, I'll tell my friends, is when you look at a post, let's say online, as soon as somebody says, here's how I did it, or, you know, this is how I became more productive, I'm like, no, that's not the point. Like meditating is not about becoming more productive.
I always say, you know, the easiest way to see it, I'll tell my friends, is when you look at a post, let's say online, as soon as somebody says, here's how I did it, or, you know, this is how I became more productive, I'm like, no, that's not the point. Like meditating is not about becoming more productive.
I don't know. I just think we're in the age of it right now, and I accept it. And I'll be honest. I don't mind the fact that the trend right now is to be healthy. Right. Because that's a fine trend.
I don't know. I just think we're in the age of it right now, and I accept it. And I'll be honest. I don't mind the fact that the trend right now is to be healthy. Right. Because that's a fine trend.
There was a time in comedy where... one thing comedians all shared was comedy, right? It didn't matter like who you were, where you were from, what you did, black, white, old, young, woman, man. It really didn't matter. It didn't matter. We had this thing where we would go into a comedy club and it was like comedy time. And we all just had comedy.
There was a time in comedy where... one thing comedians all shared was comedy, right? It didn't matter like who you were, where you were from, what you did, black, white, old, young, woman, man. It really didn't matter. It didn't matter. We had this thing where we would go into a comedy club and it was like comedy time. And we all just had comedy.
And then I noticed over the past few years, and it's funny, I'm less worried about it for comedy and I'm more worried about what it means for society, is I've noticed a creep of polarization even in comedy.
And then I noticed over the past few years, and it's funny, I'm less worried about it for comedy and I'm more worried about what it means for society, is I've noticed a creep of polarization even in comedy.
Like comedy used to be, everyone does everything and they're comedians and someone will get on stage and say the craziest joke that is whatever, you know, it can be anything, misogynistic, racist, you name it. But it's within the confines of comedy. Like they're using the tools to make a joke about it. Right. And then now comedy slowly becoming like, oh, well, those people, that's their politics.
Like comedy used to be, everyone does everything and they're comedians and someone will get on stage and say the craziest joke that is whatever, you know, it can be anything, misogynistic, racist, you name it. But it's within the confines of comedy. Like they're using the tools to make a joke about it. Right. And then now comedy slowly becoming like, oh, well, those people, that's their politics.
We don't do comedy with them. And these people, we don't do comedy with them. Like, do you think politics is going to end comedy as we know it?
We don't do comedy with them. And these people, we don't do comedy with them. Like, do you think politics is going to end comedy as we know it?
When Elon Musk had the rocket come back down to Earth. I remember watching that.
When Elon Musk had the rocket come back down to Earth. I remember watching that.
You're clearly a verified user. Yeah, I watched the rocket come down. First, I thought it was a fake video because it's so amazing that it looks fake. Did you watch the longer one? Yeah, that's what I'm saying.
You're clearly a verified user. Yeah, I watched the rocket come down. First, I thought it was a fake video because it's so amazing that it looks fake. Did you watch the longer one? Yeah, that's what I'm saying.
Wait, this is going to land? So I thought it was going... I thought someone had reversed the video because I was like, this makes no sense. I was like, physics, what is happening here? And I'm watching all of this. And then I texted all my friends, especially like friends who love tech and everything. I was like, this is the most amazing thing. Have you seen this? And I was like, have you?
Wait, this is going to land? So I thought it was going... I thought someone had reversed the video because I was like, this makes no sense. I was like, physics, what is happening here? And I'm watching all of this. And then I texted all my friends, especially like friends who love tech and everything. I was like, this is the most amazing thing. Have you seen this? And I was like, have you?
And people were like, screw that guy.
And people were like, screw that guy.
And I've now learned on the podcast, I have to now be very clear. That's not what I was... No. This does not represent me. No. And even in my group of friends, I didn't understand, and I still don't understand, why people feel the need to tell me how they feel about a thing that I know they feel about. But I'm like, I'm your friend.
And I've now learned on the podcast, I have to now be very clear. That's not what I was... No. This does not represent me. No. And even in my group of friends, I didn't understand, and I still don't understand, why people feel the need to tell me how they feel about a thing that I know they feel about. But I'm like, I'm your friend.
If I send you a video of an Elon Musk rocket being caught from space and I go, this is amazing. Don't say to me, Elon Musk sucks.
If I send you a video of an Elon Musk rocket being caught from space and I go, this is amazing. Don't say to me, Elon Musk sucks.
Yeah, but this is in our own messages.
Yeah, but this is in our own messages.
Okay, I'm going to go on the record and say, I will never judge anybody for texts that get released unless those texts...
Okay, I'm going to go on the record and say, I will never judge anybody for texts that get released unless those texts...
indict them about something they've done in public because of the con it's like a comedy club it goes back to the same rule if we're in a comedy club we know that the people in here are trying to say things that elicit a laugh from the audience so a comedian will make a joke about anything they'll make a joke about murder they'll make a joke about genocides they'll make a joke about rape they'll make a joke it doesn't i heard a comedian make a joke uh referring to a bunch of suicides as the good old days
indict them about something they've done in public because of the con it's like a comedy club it goes back to the same rule if we're in a comedy club we know that the people in here are trying to say things that elicit a laugh from the audience so a comedian will make a joke about anything they'll make a joke about murder they'll make a joke about genocides they'll make a joke about rape they'll make a joke it doesn't i heard a comedian make a joke uh referring to a bunch of suicides as the good old days
That was on one of the episodes. Go back through the episodes and you'll find it. But that's what I mean. It's like there's the context. And when we maintain that context, people know, oh, yeah, you can send something to your friend or your family member. That is egregious. It can be the most horrible thing towards them or towards somebody else.
That was on one of the episodes. Go back through the episodes and you'll find it. But that's what I mean. It's like there's the context. And when we maintain that context, people know, oh, yeah, you can send something to your friend or your family member. That is egregious. It can be the most horrible thing towards them or towards somebody else.
But because of the context, they know that you're joking. They know that... Do you get what I'm saying? And I actually worry about that world. I don't want to live in a world where we now have to sort of like... Thought police. Yeah. We have to now go like, I've never had that thought. I do not think anything that is bad could be funny. I do not think...
But because of the context, they know that you're joking. They know that... Do you get what I'm saying? And I actually worry about that world. I don't want to live in a world where we now have to sort of like... Thought police. Yeah. We have to now go like, I've never had that thought. I do not think anything that is bad could be funny. I do not think...
No, but it's a joke. I wouldn't say many things.
No, but it's a joke. I wouldn't say many things.
So I think that society, you know, it's not to delve too deep into the world of like the shadow self and all of these things, but... We need to accept that as human beings, the paradox of the brain is that it is thinking about what it should not think about even when we're telling it to think about something. It's mostly an intrusive thought.
So I think that society, you know, it's not to delve too deep into the world of like the shadow self and all of these things, but... We need to accept that as human beings, the paradox of the brain is that it is thinking about what it should not think about even when we're telling it to think about something. It's mostly an intrusive thought.
Everything. 90% intrusive thought. When I'm on the freeway, most of the time I'm thinking, crash that, crash that. I'm not doing it though, but my brain is going, what would happen? What would happen? What would happen? You know what I mean? So I actually, personally as Trevor, I go, I judge people based on their actions, not on their thoughts.
Everything. 90% intrusive thought. When I'm on the freeway, most of the time I'm thinking, crash that, crash that. I'm not doing it though, but my brain is going, what would happen? What would happen? What would happen? You know what I mean? So I actually, personally as Trevor, I go, I judge people based on their actions, not on their thoughts.
Because I go, that is, in my opinion, what makes you a good person is that you act in a way that is good for other people or for yourself. And you don't follow all the thoughts that are... In fact, if you follow all the thoughts, I think they would put you in an asylum. They would say that you are, you listen to the voices in your head. You'd just be in jail. Exactly.
Because I go, that is, in my opinion, what makes you a good person is that you act in a way that is good for other people or for yourself. And you don't follow all the thoughts that are... In fact, if you follow all the thoughts, I think they would put you in an asylum. They would say that you are, you listen to the voices in your head. You'd just be in jail. Exactly.
I mean, that is true.
I mean, that is true.
trust you more i think yes um i remember um i bumped into shane gillis and um and i remember chatting to him and i was like and i genuinely mean this i was like i i'm so proud of shane gillis as a human being and as a comedian because he got fired off of snl people discarded him they're like he's out then he amassed a huge amount of fans who were like yeah Bring more.
trust you more i think yes um i remember um i bumped into shane gillis and um and i remember chatting to him and i was like and i genuinely mean this i was like i i'm so proud of shane gillis as a human being and as a comedian because he got fired off of snl people discarded him they're like he's out then he amassed a huge amount of fans who were like yeah Bring more.
They were like, bring more racism. Bring more. They were like, do the thing. And I'll never forget his first shows that he booked. I think it was at The Stand, actually, in New York. Shane comes out and he basically addresses the fact that people have come there to see racist. And he's like, that's not what I do.
They were like, bring more racism. Bring more. They were like, do the thing. And I'll never forget his first shows that he booked. I think it was at The Stand, actually, in New York. Shane comes out and he basically addresses the fact that people have come there to see racist. And he's like, that's not what I do.
Yeah, and he didn't. And then he subverted the whole thing and he joked about it. And even now, like I go genuinely, Shane Gillis is one of the people where, and I don't think anyone, quote unquote, let's say has an excuse, but he would have had an excuse to be an asshole. Shane was like, no. He's like, hey, man, I made some jokes. You didn't like them. I'm still going to make jokes.
Yeah, and he didn't. And then he subverted the whole thing and he joked about it. And even now, like I go genuinely, Shane Gillis is one of the people where, and I don't think anyone, quote unquote, let's say has an excuse, but he would have had an excuse to be an asshole. Shane was like, no. He's like, hey, man, I made some jokes. You didn't like them. I'm still going to make jokes.
And genuinely now, I think he's one of the best comedians working in the world. And when you watch his comedy, I don't care what you are, by the way, conservative, liberal, whatever you think you are, Shane Gillis is funny, but I also think it's amazing to see somebody who was able to withstand the horde that supports the worst instincts. Because one person can go, Neil, how could you say that?
And genuinely now, I think he's one of the best comedians working in the world. And when you watch his comedy, I don't care what you are, by the way, conservative, liberal, whatever you think you are, Shane Gillis is funny, but I also think it's amazing to see somebody who was able to withstand the horde that supports the worst instincts. Because one person can go, Neil, how could you say that?
You get canceled. And then what happens is there's a crowd that comes in to claim you, and they're like, yes, Neil. Yes, join us. All the things, yes. And you know how we feel about those people. And you're like, man, I just made a joke that some people didn't like. And they're like, no, but Neil, do only those jokes.
You get canceled. And then what happens is there's a crowd that comes in to claim you, and they're like, yes, Neil. Yes, join us. All the things, yes. And you know how we feel about those people. And you're like, man, I just made a joke that some people didn't like. And they're like, no, but Neil, do only those jokes.
And Shane, I don't know how he did it as a human, because that must have been really hard. I think he shrugged it off. He just seemed to kind of go like, I don't know. I don't know how, though. This next segment, Core Memories, is brought to you by Starbucks. The holidays aren't just about grand gestures, but the little moments that bring warmth, connection, and joy to the season.
And Shane, I don't know how he did it as a human, because that must have been really hard. I think he shrugged it off. He just seemed to kind of go like, I don't know. I don't know how, though. This next segment, Core Memories, is brought to you by Starbucks. The holidays aren't just about grand gestures, but the little moments that bring warmth, connection, and joy to the season.
I remember the first time I experienced a winter Christmas in America. It felt like I was stepping into a movie. Because you see, back home in South Africa, Christmas is all about summer, right? It's barbecues, cold drinks, and running around outside in the sun. That's something I'd only ever seen on TV before.
I remember the first time I experienced a winter Christmas in America. It felt like I was stepping into a movie. Because you see, back home in South Africa, Christmas is all about summer, right? It's barbecues, cold drinks, and running around outside in the sun. That's something I'd only ever seen on TV before.
Everything felt so still, like the world outside had been wrapped in a thick, cozy blanket. Inside it was warm, almost too warm to be honest. The heat was on and there was a smell of cinnamon in the air, which, by the way, Americans love. I couldn't help but laugh at myself. I was bundled in three layers of clothing, even though everyone else seemed perfectly comfortable in their one sweater.
Everything felt so still, like the world outside had been wrapped in a thick, cozy blanket. Inside it was warm, almost too warm to be honest. The heat was on and there was a smell of cinnamon in the air, which, by the way, Americans love. I couldn't help but laugh at myself. I was bundled in three layers of clothing, even though everyone else seemed perfectly comfortable in their one sweater.
A very ugly sweater. We spent the evening indoors, playing board games, where people were fighting over sheep. I still don't understand what that game was about. But what struck me was the coziness of it all. Everyone gathered together, and the sound of laughter filled the room.
A very ugly sweater. We spent the evening indoors, playing board games, where people were fighting over sheep. I still don't understand what that game was about. But what struck me was the coziness of it all. Everyone gathered together, and the sound of laughter filled the room.
It was such a contrast to the Christmases I had grown up with, where everything was loud and outdoors, and this was slower, and it was more intimate. And honestly, I loved it just as much. There's something magical about being stuck inside because of the cold, surrounded by people you care about, while the rest of the world feels like it's standing still.
It was such a contrast to the Christmases I had grown up with, where everything was loud and outdoors, and this was slower, and it was more intimate. And honestly, I loved it just as much. There's something magical about being stuck inside because of the cold, surrounded by people you care about, while the rest of the world feels like it's standing still.
That was the moment I realized Christmases aren't really about the weather or the food. It's all about who you spend it with. There's no denying, moments like these are so much more magical when they're paired with the comforting flavors of the holiday season. Create core memories this holiday season. Order your favorite holiday beverage on the Starbucks app today.
That was the moment I realized Christmases aren't really about the weather or the food. It's all about who you spend it with. There's no denying, moments like these are so much more magical when they're paired with the comforting flavors of the holiday season. Create core memories this holiday season. Order your favorite holiday beverage on the Starbucks app today.
So it's funny, Christiana and I were talking about this.
So it's funny, Christiana and I were talking about this.
So like after the Ta-Nehisi episode on the podcast, right? I had, you name it. I had people phoning me, everybody from everywhere. You know, so every, like you run the spectrum from friends, friends, close friends going like, Trevor, like, how could you have that man on? And that is extremist and it's anti-Semitic and this is trash. And why would you even sit there and listen to him?
So like after the Ta-Nehisi episode on the podcast, right? I had, you name it. I had people phoning me, everybody from everywhere. You know, so every, like you run the spectrum from friends, friends, close friends going like, Trevor, like, how could you have that man on? And that is extremist and it's anti-Semitic and this is trash. And why would you even sit there and listen to him?
And all the way through to strangers just being like, this is why you should be dead. I wish apartheid had killed you and blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. So you got my message. And the two of you know me in those moments more than most people, right? And the first thing I do is listen, because I go like, all right, tell me everything. Just tell me everything, you know?
And all the way through to strangers just being like, this is why you should be dead. I wish apartheid had killed you and blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. So you got my message. And the two of you know me in those moments more than most people, right? And the first thing I do is listen, because I go like, all right, tell me everything. Just tell me everything, you know?
And so like a friend of mine would just be like, oh, he's like, you know, I can't believe you. Why didn't you ask Tanasi this? And why didn't you ask him that? And I responded and I
And so like a friend of mine would just be like, oh, he's like, you know, I can't believe you. Why didn't you ask Tanasi this? And why didn't you ask him that? And I responded and I
I said, I was like, hey, the same way if somebody's coming to talk about their documentary about something that happened in Israel, I'm not going to push them on everything about what's happening in Gaza because this is the part of the story that we're here to talk about. And it was interesting.
I said, I was like, hey, the same way if somebody's coming to talk about their documentary about something that happened in Israel, I'm not going to push them on everything about what's happening in Gaza because this is the part of the story that we're here to talk about. And it was interesting.
When I have those conversations, I just listen to what the person is saying, what they're feeling, and then I try and understand where we are missing each other. So the one note, for instance, I said to a friend... One of my friends, he was like, I hated the fact that you talked about Jewish people and then you talked about Israel and you talked about Jewish people, but then you conflated the two.
When I have those conversations, I just listen to what the person is saying, what they're feeling, and then I try and understand where we are missing each other. So the one note, for instance, I said to a friend... One of my friends, he was like, I hated the fact that you talked about Jewish people and then you talked about Israel and you talked about Jewish people, but then you conflated the two.
And I was like, oh yeah, actually you're right. Well, that's what I'm curious about, how much...
And I was like, oh yeah, actually you're right. Well, that's what I'm curious about, how much...
He feels everything.
He feels everything.
I feel all of it. Feels everything. What do you do? Play FIFA?
I feel all of it. Feels everything. What do you do? Play FIFA?
No, I am very sensitive and I feel all of it.
No, I am very sensitive and I feel all of it.
So there's a few things that have... You asked me this question and I realized there's a few things that have helped me understand this. And it's funny because I think, Neil, you'll have something similar but different because of your upbringing. So first of all, I grew up in a house and in a country where there was a lot of violence, right?
So there's a few things that have... You asked me this question and I realized there's a few things that have helped me understand this. And it's funny because I think, Neil, you'll have something similar but different because of your upbringing. So first of all, I grew up in a house and in a country where there was a lot of violence, right?
And so when I was a child watching this, I never once looked at it and went, yeah, this is right. I even talk to my mom now and I go, why would you get so angry when you were hitting me? And she's like, because you wouldn't listen. I'm like, yeah, but why did you get angry though? I was like, you know, you could have just like done it as like a, all right, kid, here comes your punishment.
And so when I was a child watching this, I never once looked at it and went, yeah, this is right. I even talk to my mom now and I go, why would you get so angry when you were hitting me? And she's like, because you wouldn't listen. I'm like, yeah, but why did you get angry though? I was like, you know, you could have just like done it as like a, all right, kid, here comes your punishment.
And then she would say, she's like, I was so frustrated. And I was like, I was like, I know I, you know, cut something open. I know I dismantled the TV. I know I burnt down a room. I know whatever I did. But even me as a child, I would go, huh, that was not ideal, but I'm not going to lose my cool over this. And then I'd get my beating and then I would cry and I'd feel it. I'd feel everything.
And then she would say, she's like, I was so frustrated. And I was like, I was like, I know I, you know, cut something open. I know I dismantled the TV. I know I burnt down a room. I know whatever I did. But even me as a child, I would go, huh, that was not ideal, but I'm not going to lose my cool over this. And then I'd get my beating and then I would cry and I'd feel it. I'd feel everything.
But the thing that would stick with me is how it didn't make sense for people to lose their cool. And I talk to my friends about it, and we have these big fights, but I go, every one of our parents, especially African parents, but I mean, I know you know how Neil grew up. Yo, parents were beating kids, and this was like a normal thing. And now we joke about it.
But the thing that would stick with me is how it didn't make sense for people to lose their cool. And I talk to my friends about it, and we have these big fights, but I go, every one of our parents, especially African parents, but I mean, I know you know how Neil grew up. Yo, parents were beating kids, and this was like a normal thing. And now we joke about it.
And like, what was the, was the family funny? Cause I I've never known this part of your comedy. Like. Who was the funny in your family, or where did the funny come from?
And like, what was the, was the family funny? Cause I I've never known this part of your comedy. Like. Who was the funny in your family, or where did the funny come from?
You'd be like, oh, you pray there's no shoe around, and you pray. Like Eddie Murphy had those jokes, and we all laughed about it. But- I think I grew up watching this going, huh, this is not, it doesn't seem to be ideal and it doesn't seem to get where I'm going. So maybe what I did a little too much was I internalize it. So I keep it in me. But then what I do is I, and that's where ADHD helps.
You'd be like, oh, you pray there's no shoe around, and you pray. Like Eddie Murphy had those jokes, and we all laughed about it. But- I think I grew up watching this going, huh, this is not, it doesn't seem to be ideal and it doesn't seem to get where I'm going. So maybe what I did a little too much was I internalize it. So I keep it in me. But then what I do is I, and that's where ADHD helps.
I'm having six conversations now at the same time. So you're speaking to me. And I'm listening to what you're saying. And then I'm sort of going to like one tree, which is like, okay, how do I agree with you? How do I disagree with you? What's happening here? What's not happening here? Do I connect with you? Do I not connect with you? Can I see your humanity?
I'm having six conversations now at the same time. So you're speaking to me. And I'm listening to what you're saying. And then I'm sort of going to like one tree, which is like, okay, how do I agree with you? How do I disagree with you? What's happening here? What's not happening here? Do I connect with you? Do I not connect with you? Can I see your humanity?
And I always go, if I see you as a person, which I do with most human beings on the show, genuinely, I go like, I'll still find something to connect with you on. And so on the other side of it, when you ask me like, how much does it change me? I genuinely listen. So- A person almost only has to tell me once. And I will keep that because it means something.
And I always go, if I see you as a person, which I do with most human beings on the show, genuinely, I go like, I'll still find something to connect with you on. And so on the other side of it, when you ask me like, how much does it change me? I genuinely listen. So- A person almost only has to tell me once. And I will keep that because it means something.
So when my friend said to me, my friend who's Jewish and spent time in Israel said, I didn't like that you said Jewish and Israel, but you conflated the two. And I was like, oh, okay. I will never do that again. But then when it comes to like arguing about whether or not it's an apartheid state, I said, you are my friend and I love you, but we're not going to agree on this.
So when my friend said to me, my friend who's Jewish and spent time in Israel said, I didn't like that you said Jewish and Israel, but you conflated the two. And I was like, oh, okay. I will never do that again. But then when it comes to like arguing about whether or not it's an apartheid state, I said, you are my friend and I love you, but we're not going to agree on this.
And I don't think we need to agree on this to remain friends. In fact, as my friend, I hope that you'll still keep me in your life and I will work to keep you in my life. But I don't want to lose you because of this thing, because there's so many things that we're going to disagree on. This is just one of the biggest ones, you know, and.
And I don't think we need to agree on this to remain friends. In fact, as my friend, I hope that you'll still keep me in your life and I will work to keep you in my life. But I don't want to lose you because of this thing, because there's so many things that we're going to disagree on. This is just one of the biggest ones, you know, and.
And I don't know whether it's just this moment in time or social media or I don't know what it is, but I feel like people have less and less ability now to maintain friendships or to maintain connections that also hold a space of disagreement or conflict.
And I don't know whether it's just this moment in time or social media or I don't know what it is, but I feel like people have less and less ability now to maintain friendships or to maintain connections that also hold a space of disagreement or conflict.
Yeah, and you see for me that I don't think that's I don't think that moves us forward because I've always believed that people don't change by hanging out with people who are like them. I agree. I think we change by rubbing on each other, just rubbing off on each other. And I think the common humanity, that's why I come back to stand up.
Yeah, and you see for me that I don't think that's I don't think that moves us forward because I've always believed that people don't change by hanging out with people who are like them. I agree. I think we change by rubbing on each other, just rubbing off on each other. And I think the common humanity, that's why I come back to stand up.
I think of the comedians I used to meet in comedy clubs, and I still, till this day, I mean, everything, racist, misogynistic, whatever you want to call it, but they were also human beings. You know what I mean? And I'm not excusing any of the things they did. The same way I'm sure someone wouldn't excuse some of the things I did or said as a person. You all have your faults.
I think of the comedians I used to meet in comedy clubs, and I still, till this day, I mean, everything, racist, misogynistic, whatever you want to call it, but they were also human beings. You know what I mean? And I'm not excusing any of the things they did. The same way I'm sure someone wouldn't excuse some of the things I did or said as a person. You all have your faults.
But the one thing that would connect us first and foremost is that we were comedians. You remember, we'd even say as comedians, we'd be like, man, have you seen that guy's new bit? You'd be like, it is the most racist bit you've ever seen, but God, it's funny. And holding that paradox holding that cognitive dissonance, I think was key to us.
But the one thing that would connect us first and foremost is that we were comedians. You remember, we'd even say as comedians, we'd be like, man, have you seen that guy's new bit? You'd be like, it is the most racist bit you've ever seen, but God, it's funny. And holding that paradox holding that cognitive dissonance, I think was key to us.
And you would see, not all, but you would see a lot of the comedians evolve over time because society would evolve and you would shift and you'd find a lot of the comedians who were doing the jokes they were doing back in the day wouldn't do them anymore and they would evolve slowly.
And you would see, not all, but you would see a lot of the comedians evolve over time because society would evolve and you would shift and you'd find a lot of the comedians who were doing the jokes they were doing back in the day wouldn't do them anymore and they would evolve slowly.
There is no comedian who does not have something wrong with them. No good comedian, actually.
There is no comedian who does not have something wrong with them. No good comedian, actually.
So I used to think that, but then I realized we've robbed the world of context. And on one of our previous episodes here, when Yuval Noah was here, the author of Sapiens and the Nexus, he said something that really stuck with me. And it was, we are living in an age where we have more information than we've ever, ever, ever, ever, ever had in our lives. We have access to more information, but...
So I used to think that, but then I realized we've robbed the world of context. And on one of our previous episodes here, when Yuval Noah was here, the author of Sapiens and the Nexus, he said something that really stuck with me. And it was, we are living in an age where we have more information than we've ever, ever, ever, ever, ever had in our lives. We have access to more information, but...
We don't have enough time to process it. And I think the problem with like comedy now, let's say, or jokes even, is there's no context anymore. Then even when Twitter began, the first people who followed comedians on Twitter and people all agree that this was a place where people are making jokes. They are not real things, right? Yeah.
We don't have enough time to process it. And I think the problem with like comedy now, let's say, or jokes even, is there's no context anymore. Then even when Twitter began, the first people who followed comedians on Twitter and people all agree that this was a place where people are making jokes. They are not real things, right? Yeah.
And then the context spread, the algorithm moved things around. Now you're sitting at home, minding your own business. You're a super religious person. And then some video will come on your feed where someone's trashing religion, making jokes about it. And you're like, you get angry. But there's no context. You didn't want to see that. You didn't ask to see.
And then the context spread, the algorithm moved things around. Now you're sitting at home, minding your own business. You're a super religious person. And then some video will come on your feed where someone's trashing religion, making jokes about it. And you're like, you get angry. But there's no context. You didn't want to see that. You didn't ask to see.
And I think that's one of my key issues with social media is the fact that people are not asking to see. They're not opting in in any way. I feel like it should be like an opt-in as opposed to an opt-out. But people are seeing videos that they don't want to see, videos that are actively making them angrier, sadder, more afraid, et cetera. And I think that's actually...
And I think that's one of my key issues with social media is the fact that people are not asking to see. They're not opting in in any way. I feel like it should be like an opt-in as opposed to an opt-out. But people are seeing videos that they don't want to see, videos that are actively making them angrier, sadder, more afraid, et cetera. And I think that's actually...
hurting comedy and hurting the idea of comedy as opposed to it being or not being. Does that make sense?
hurting comedy and hurting the idea of comedy as opposed to it being or not being. Does that make sense?
The issue I have with it is that is the getting offended issue. It is you on the other side of getting offended. And I, okay, I say this from the, let's take comedy out of it for a moment. I think of language. So I speak many languages, as you know, Neil Brennan.
The issue I have with it is that is the getting offended issue. It is you on the other side of getting offended. And I, okay, I say this from the, let's take comedy out of it for a moment. I think of language. So I speak many languages, as you know, Neil Brennan.
And one of the things I love about speaking multiple languages is the fact that you learn how offensive the same thing is in another culture, in another language. Sure. You didn't change anything. You moved your hand in a different way. You did a thumbs up in one country and they're like, what did you say about my father? And you're like, wait, what?
And one of the things I love about speaking multiple languages is the fact that you learn how offensive the same thing is in another culture, in another language. Sure. You didn't change anything. You moved your hand in a different way. You did a thumbs up in one country and they're like, what did you say about my father? And you're like, wait, what?
You put your hand under your chin in one country and they're like, what are you saying about my family?
You put your hand under your chin in one country and they're like, what are you saying about my family?
No, no, no. You adjust in different contexts, right? but that's because I've moved to places, right? We are no longer moving. So we now live in a world- So there's nine different languages.
No, no, no. You adjust in different contexts, right? but that's because I've moved to places, right? We are no longer moving. So we now live in a world- So there's nine different languages.
So we're no longer moving. Before it made sense, I go to Dubai. When I'm in Dubai, I acknowledge I'm in the United Arab Emirates. I will respect the cultures and the laws accordingly. When I go to South Africa, I know my people. I will respect my people and I will work accordingly. I do this everywhere in the world, but now I'm not going anywhere. You're not going anywhere.
So we're no longer moving. Before it made sense, I go to Dubai. When I'm in Dubai, I acknowledge I'm in the United Arab Emirates. I will respect the cultures and the laws accordingly. When I go to South Africa, I know my people. I will respect my people and I will work accordingly. I do this everywhere in the world, but now I'm not going anywhere. You're not going anywhere.
You're not going anywhere. You're at home tweeting your friend, TikToking your people. You're not going anywhere. And then it takes you where the people don't agree with you, but you didn't go there. That's what I'm trying to say. And so the problem with offense is that everything is offensive to everyone if there is no context. So you can literally say something.
You're not going anywhere. You're at home tweeting your friend, TikToking your people. You're not going anywhere. And then it takes you where the people don't agree with you, but you didn't go there. That's what I'm trying to say. And so the problem with offense is that everything is offensive to everyone if there is no context. So you can literally say something.
You could say to your own grandparent, you'd be like, how old are you, granny? And they'd be like, 93. They're like, whoop, it's almost time. And your grandparent laughs. Yeah. You take that video, you put it on your own social media page. For you and your few fans and your people, you might have 20 followers. For some reason, it sparks something.
You could say to your own grandparent, you'd be like, how old are you, granny? And they'd be like, 93. They're like, whoop, it's almost time. And your grandparent laughs. Yeah. You take that video, you put it on your own social media page. For you and your few fans and your people, you might have 20 followers. For some reason, it sparks something.
All of a sudden, there's a delusion of people coming to you saying, how dare you? Do you know what ageism does to our culture? You're discarding. I don't care that they laugh. They probably laugh because they're scared of you. And you're like, no, this is my grandparent. They taught me this humor. I'm laughing with them. For instance, I've seen comedians, and you've seen this.
All of a sudden, there's a delusion of people coming to you saying, how dare you? Do you know what ageism does to our culture? You're discarding. I don't care that they laugh. They probably laugh because they're scared of you. And you're like, no, this is my grandparent. They taught me this humor. I'm laughing with them. For instance, I've seen comedians, and you've seen this.
I've seen comedians who have disabilities, deaf, blind. They have MS, cerebral palsy, whatever it is. They make a joke online. People don't know that they have that disability. And they just come off them. How could you? How dare you? Piece of trash. And then their fans come in and go like, excuse me, they have the disability. And the people are like, oh, I didn't know. Oh, well, that's so funny.
I've seen comedians who have disabilities, deaf, blind. They have MS, cerebral palsy, whatever it is. They make a joke online. People don't know that they have that disability. And they just come off them. How could you? How dare you? Piece of trash. And then their fans come in and go like, excuse me, they have the disability. And the people are like, oh, I didn't know. Oh, well, that's so funny.
And I'm like, what just changed? Nothing has changed. Your context and the way you saw the thing changed. And so I do agree with you. Yes, words have consequences, yes. But I think we should never take for granted our participation in some of these ideas where we are choosing to get angry on some of it. We are choosing to take it and make it like, ah!
And I'm like, what just changed? Nothing has changed. Your context and the way you saw the thing changed. And so I do agree with you. Yes, words have consequences, yes. But I think we should never take for granted our participation in some of these ideas where we are choosing to get angry on some of it. We are choosing to take it and make it like, ah!
Personally, I do this in my life with my friends, with my people. I encourage people...
Personally, I do this in my life with my friends, with my people. I encourage people...
to just it's almost like filtering focus on the things that you should actually be angry about because there's a lot of things that actually it's like oh you just you just misinterpreted it it's it's you you really just misinterpreted it it's a different perspective different language different culture different vibe different story and it actually doesn't spoil your life we're going to continue this conversation right after this short break
to just it's almost like filtering focus on the things that you should actually be angry about because there's a lot of things that actually it's like oh you just you just misinterpreted it it's it's you you really just misinterpreted it it's a different perspective different language different culture different vibe different story and it actually doesn't spoil your life we're going to continue this conversation right after this short break
I don't know what the solution to this is, but I still go back to my belief that the solution doesn't lie in people siloing themselves. I believe as Trevor, this person... has no incentive, and will never even shift a little bit if I'm not in their life. And I will never see their perspective if I'm not in their life.
I don't know what the solution to this is, but I still go back to my belief that the solution doesn't lie in people siloing themselves. I believe as Trevor, this person... has no incentive, and will never even shift a little bit if I'm not in their life. And I will never see their perspective if I'm not in their life.
But it's not Kumbaya, man.
But it's not Kumbaya, man.
Get out of here. No, but it's something. Jive turkey.
Get out of here. No, but it's something. Jive turkey.
That's the type of. That's not why. You see, the why was wrong.
That's the type of. That's not why. You see, the why was wrong.
And look at where we are now. You were part of helping me win an Emmy. You were part of helping make the show the best thing it's ever been.
And look at where we are now. You were part of helping me win an Emmy. You were part of helping make the show the best thing it's ever been.
As your friend, both of you, I've seen both of you change because of me. And both of you have changed me because you're in my life. So Christiana, I've watched you become funnier. and looser as a person in the time that I've known you. Like I've literally watched you.
As your friend, both of you, I've seen both of you change because of me. And both of you have changed me because you're in my life. So Christiana, I've watched you become funnier. and looser as a person in the time that I've known you. Like I've literally watched you.
So I like what you said, but like with the Twitter thing, yes, you were trash talking me and trash talking The Daily Show and everything. But more importantly, I saw somebody who was super smart, really, like the way you saw the world and the way you like understood ideas and what you brought in and your journalistic brain. I was like, damn, this is amazing.
So I like what you said, but like with the Twitter thing, yes, you were trash talking me and trash talking The Daily Show and everything. But more importantly, I saw somebody who was super smart, really, like the way you saw the world and the way you like understood ideas and what you brought in and your journalistic brain. I was like, damn, this is amazing.
I wasn't hiring people on Twitter who were just like, Trevor Noah, you suck.
I wasn't hiring people on Twitter who were just like, Trevor Noah, you suck.
I wasn't like, yeah, this person needs to come to The Daily Show. It's not about that. I'm able to look- They already work there.
I wasn't like, yeah, this person needs to come to The Daily Show. It's not about that. I'm able to look- They already work there.
I'm able to look at the thing that lies beneath how you respond to me.
I'm able to look at the thing that lies beneath how you respond to me.
I admire it. So when I look at the two of you, you've become funnier, like more chill, more everything. Right, Neil, let me tell you something. When I met Neil Brennan, so I'll take you on a little journey. When I met Neil Brennan for the very first time, I was on Twitter, and this was the good old days of Twitter where people were just making jokes. There was nothing serious on it.
I admire it. So when I look at the two of you, you've become funnier, like more chill, more everything. Right, Neil, let me tell you something. When I met Neil Brennan, so I'll take you on a little journey. When I met Neil Brennan for the very first time, I was on Twitter, and this was the good old days of Twitter where people were just making jokes. There was nothing serious on it.
And there was just jokes. And I remember Neil had really funny jokes on Twitter. And I was like, this guy's funny. And I followed him. And then it said, co-creator of Chappelle Show. And I was like, wait, what? And I went in. And I hadn't even watched the Chappelle Show in that way. I never had cable. I couldn't afford it. All these things. Sob story, whatever. Copper roof.
And there was just jokes. And I remember Neil had really funny jokes on Twitter. And I was like, this guy's funny. And I followed him. And then it said, co-creator of Chappelle Show. And I was like, wait, what? And I went in. And I hadn't even watched the Chappelle Show in that way. I never had cable. I couldn't afford it. All these things. Sob story, whatever. Copper roof.
Tough life. Let's keep it moving. But I then went and I watched the show and then I saw the first sketch, the black white supremacist. And then you're in the back there and your head explodes. But then I started researching. I was like, damn, this guy's funny. And he's just been in everything that I love. So I follow him on Twitter. And now I just love his jokes.
Tough life. Let's keep it moving. But I then went and I watched the show and then I saw the first sketch, the black white supremacist. And then you're in the back there and your head explodes. But then I started researching. I was like, damn, this guy's funny. And he's just been in everything that I love. So I follow him on Twitter. And now I just love his jokes.
And then I come to America for the first time doing like random shows and I meet him at the comedy store in Los Angeles. And I'm walking through the corridors there, very dark, very like sad. Satanic energy. It really is. And I walked in and I saw his face and I was like, wait a minute. It's like Neil Brennan. And I was like, I know you. He's like, doesn't everyone?
And then I come to America for the first time doing like random shows and I meet him at the comedy store in Los Angeles. And I'm walking through the corridors there, very dark, very like sad. Satanic energy. It really is. And I walked in and I saw his face and I was like, wait a minute. It's like Neil Brennan. And I was like, I know you. He's like, doesn't everyone?
What are you, from another country? Yeah, it was very like, I was like, wow. And I was like, what? And I was like, yeah, hey, nice to meet you. I was like, I love you. I follow you on Twitter, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. And Neil was like, very dismissive. Neil was like, ah.
What are you, from another country? Yeah, it was very like, I was like, wow. And I was like, what? And I was like, yeah, hey, nice to meet you. I was like, I love you. I follow you on Twitter, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. And Neil was like, very dismissive. Neil was like, ah.
okay whatever man and and like just very like you know leaning against the wall like like it's almost like a scene from greece but without the leather jackets just like leaning on the wall and it's like whatever kid keep it moving and i walk i walked in i went to do my sets or something and then when i was walking out neil goes like hey wait a minute where you from back here he's like where you from and i was like i'm from south africa and he's like
okay whatever man and and like just very like you know leaning against the wall like like it's almost like a scene from greece but without the leather jackets just like leaning on the wall and it's like whatever kid keep it moving and i walk i walked in i went to do my sets or something and then when i was walking out neil goes like hey wait a minute where you from back here he's like where you from and i was like i'm from south africa and he's like
Are you the guy? He's like, you followed me. I was like, yeah, I follow you. He's like, you're the reason I've got people. What did you say? You said, you're the reason I've got people with exclamation marks in their names following me. That's what Neil said. Neil was like, one day.
Are you the guy? He's like, you followed me. I was like, yeah, I follow you. He's like, you're the reason I've got people. What did you say? You said, you're the reason I've got people with exclamation marks in their names following me. That's what Neil said. Neil was like, one day.
Yeah, you said like, one day I was on my Twitter. Clicks. And it was just like Brad and Jenny following me. And then the next day it was like, click, click. And I was like, yeah, terrifying. And I was like, that's my friend. I told him about your tweets and, and that's how we meet.
Yeah, you said like, one day I was on my Twitter. Clicks. And it was just like Brad and Jenny following me. And then the next day it was like, click, click. And I was like, yeah, terrifying. And I was like, that's my friend. I told him about your tweets and, and that's how we meet.
Neil was like, and you, I hope you don't mind me saying, but like Neil was, I mean, you were grumpy. You were just like, the world is like, Everything is bad, energetically dark, always just like everything is shit. And God, what are you, no religion. And just like, and why are you smiling? He used to hate that I smiled. He's like- Are you serious?
Neil was like, and you, I hope you don't mind me saying, but like Neil was, I mean, you were grumpy. You were just like, the world is like, Everything is bad, energetically dark, always just like everything is shit. And God, what are you, no religion. And just like, and why are you smiling? He used to hate that I smiled. He's like- Are you serious?
Neil would even say to me sometimes like, what are you so happy about? I don't think I said that. He said that. I may have energetically said it. No, he said it. He said, what are you so happy about? In fact, he has a fun story. Neil, I've told this story before somewhere, I'm sure, but maybe with you. But Neil, I remember you and I were sitting in a random, it wasn't even a diner.
Neil would even say to me sometimes like, what are you so happy about? I don't think I said that. He said that. I may have energetically said it. No, he said it. He said, what are you so happy about? In fact, he has a fun story. Neil, I've told this story before somewhere, I'm sure, but maybe with you. But Neil, I remember you and I were sitting in a random, it wasn't even a diner.
I don't know what it was.
I don't know what it was.
In Denver. Neil was doing the improv, I think. I was doing the comedy work. Okay, the comedy work. So we're having a late, late, late dinner after this. Like, you know, midnight type thing. We've both done our shows. And then classic Neil with his cynicism, you know, Neil's like, how was your weekend? Did you make enough money to barely pay for your flights and your food?
In Denver. Neil was doing the improv, I think. I was doing the comedy work. Okay, the comedy work. So we're having a late, late, late dinner after this. Like, you know, midnight type thing. We've both done our shows. And then classic Neil with his cynicism, you know, Neil's like, how was your weekend? Did you make enough money to barely pay for your flights and your food?
You idiot, you African fool. Yeah. And I was like, yeah, because we made no money. Yeah. Basically, as a comedian, you were lucky if you came home with a little money from the road.
You idiot, you African fool. Yeah. And I was like, yeah, because we made no money. Yeah. Basically, as a comedian, you were lucky if you came home with a little money from the road.
Barely, barely, barely.
Barely, barely, barely.
Yeah, this is 12 years ago. And at some point, Neil turns to me and he goes, what are you doing here? Yeah. And I was like, what do you mean? And he's like, man, he's like, I've seen your life in South Africa. He's like, why are you doing this? He's like, go home. People love you there. You told him to go back to Africa. You told me to go back to where I came from.
Yeah, this is 12 years ago. And at some point, Neil turns to me and he goes, what are you doing here? Yeah. And I was like, what do you mean? And he's like, man, he's like, I've seen your life in South Africa. He's like, why are you doing this? He's like, go home. People love you there. You told him to go back to Africa. You told me to go back to where I came from.
And he's like, people love you there. And you're doing arenas. He's like, here, you're in a comedy club where people came in for free and they don't know you. They don't even like you. And he's like, why? He's like, America. He's like, America's not ready for. What did you say? America's not ready for someone.
And he's like, people love you there. And you're doing arenas. He's like, here, you're in a comedy club where people came in for free and they don't know you. They don't even like you. And he's like, why? He's like, America. He's like, America's not ready for. What did you say? America's not ready for someone.
Yeah, you were like, Americans don't like foreign comedians. And then we went through a list and he wasn't wrong. Ricky Gervais is the only one who made an impact. And they made a show, but they made Americans. And then Neil said this to me, and we had this discussion back and forth for a while, back and forth for a while. And I was like, oh, and I took it in a good way.
Yeah, you were like, Americans don't like foreign comedians. And then we went through a list and he wasn't wrong. Ricky Gervais is the only one who made an impact. And they made a show, but they made Americans. And then Neil said this to me, and we had this discussion back and forth for a while, back and forth for a while. And I was like, oh, and I took it in a good way.
I was like, you know what, Neil? He's like, thank you. What, like, wonderful. You're such a good friend. He's like, I don't even know if I'm your friend. We're just in the same city. But I always, and I've always seen this, you know, I've always said that. I was always like, what a sweet, loving guy.
I was like, you know what, Neil? He's like, thank you. What, like, wonderful. You're such a good friend. He's like, I don't even know if I'm your friend. We're just in the same city. But I always, and I've always seen this, you know, I've always said that. I was always like, what a sweet, loving guy.
I was like, this is a sweet, loving human being who has been hurt by something and someone in the world. And now he wears like a little shell on the outside.
I was like, this is a sweet, loving human being who has been hurt by something and someone in the world. And now he wears like a little shell on the outside.
The same way I see everyone, genuinely. We see past all this, Christiana, to the real you.
The same way I see everyone, genuinely. We see past all this, Christiana, to the real you.
So I was like, this guy's a nice, because I think, I meet people sometimes who are very nice, and I go, this person is an asshole, and I do not want to know them as a human being. They will burn your life down if they get the chance. And then I meet people who are prickly, and I'm like, you, you're a good person, you know?
So I was like, this guy's a nice, because I think, I meet people sometimes who are very nice, and I go, this person is an asshole, and I do not want to know them as a human being. They will burn your life down if they get the chance. And then I meet people who are prickly, and I'm like, you, you're a good person, you know?
He literally phoned me.
He literally phoned me.
What made you... I remember telling you about therapy and you were like... You didn't tell me about therapy. No, I remember talking to you about therapy and you were like... Did you go to therapy? I've been going to therapy since I was 23.
What made you... I remember telling you about therapy and you were like... You didn't tell me about therapy. No, I remember talking to you about therapy and you were like... Did you go to therapy? I've been going to therapy since I was 23.
Yeah, it's because of my childhood. Yeah.
Yeah, it's because of my childhood. Yeah.
Oh, yeah. But you were lucky you grew up like, first of all, you're Nigerian. So you've always had like your people.
Oh, yeah. But you were lucky you grew up like, first of all, you're Nigerian. So you've always had like your people.
And then also like your family. I've grown up as a singular. You know what I mean? I was and still am the only person in my family who even looks like me. Obviously, you can find features in my parents. You'd be, oh, I see. But no, my mother's a different color to me. My father's a different color to me. We look, we are different people. And in the family, I'm a different person.
And then also like your family. I've grown up as a singular. You know what I mean? I was and still am the only person in my family who even looks like me. Obviously, you can find features in my parents. You'd be, oh, I see. But no, my mother's a different color to me. My father's a different color to me. We look, we are different people. And in the family, I'm a different person.
Whenever I think of big families, I... I'm torn. You know, my family, like brothers are split, right? So I have two younger brothers. One is 10 years younger. One is 20 years younger. So for all intents and purposes, it feels like we were all single kids in a way. But then we all occupy an age position, you know? So I do feel like the eldest because of age.
Whenever I think of big families, I... I'm torn. You know, my family, like brothers are split, right? So I have two younger brothers. One is 10 years younger. One is 20 years younger. So for all intents and purposes, it feels like we were all single kids in a way. But then we all occupy an age position, you know? So I do feel like the eldest because of age.
And you get what I'm saying? Does that make you feel like lonely or you just... No, it was the opposite, funny enough. It didn't make me feel lonely because I don't spend all the time looking at myself, which is great.
And you get what I'm saying? Does that make you feel like lonely or you just... No, it was the opposite, funny enough. It didn't make me feel lonely because I don't spend all the time looking at myself, which is great.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Yeah, no, I was just like, you know, because it was the only way I was. And I think most importantly, my tight nucleus treated me as the in. So it's not like my cousins treated me strange, not my grandmother, my mother, my nobody in my circle. I was Trevor, fully, fully just Trevor. And then because I understand other people's languages, I would find a way to get in quickly.
Yeah, no, I was just like, you know, because it was the only way I was. And I think most importantly, my tight nucleus treated me as the in. So it's not like my cousins treated me strange, not my grandmother, my mother, my nobody in my circle. I was Trevor, fully, fully just Trevor. And then because I understand other people's languages, I would find a way to get in quickly.
And then my friends very quick. I mean, till this day, you all know my friends, but they just treat me like me. So I don't even look down and be like, well, my skin is different. No, I don't do that. And so let me ask you this. Why do you think, I'd love to know, why do you think as Neil, you were always more comfortable and more honest in black spaces than most white people?
And then my friends very quick. I mean, till this day, you all know my friends, but they just treat me like me. So I don't even look down and be like, well, my skin is different. No, I don't do that. And so let me ask you this. Why do you think, I'd love to know, why do you think as Neil, you were always more comfortable and more honest in black spaces than most white people?
And it doesn't matter what it is. It might be your family. It might be the country you lived in. It might be just a neurodivergent thing that you have in your own head and you grew up in a fine world.
And it doesn't matter what it is. It might be your family. It might be the country you lived in. It might be just a neurodivergent thing that you have in your own head and you grew up in a fine world.
Yeah, so like... I'm sensing a movie here, guys. But he wanted to be a black woman.
Yeah, so like... I'm sensing a movie here, guys. But he wanted to be a black woman.
I would say she's changed, but not her parents. So her ability to execute her parenting style has evolved with age. Like I was talking to my youngest brother about this the other day. It's like, I don't think my mom's vibe changed, but when I was young, she could chase me When my brother was naughty, she couldn't chase him as much as she could chase me. So I think she then had to adapt.
I would say she's changed, but not her parents. So her ability to execute her parenting style has evolved with age. Like I was talking to my youngest brother about this the other day. It's like, I don't think my mom's vibe changed, but when I was young, she could chase me When my brother was naughty, she couldn't chase him as much as she could chase me. So I think she then had to adapt.
So you see, I come back to what I was saying now about sharing space with people. I listened to your story and just listening to what you said. Because of your brother, you went to a place where all of his coworkers were black at Wrigley Field. You're now associating and seeing black people in their fullness, in their completeness.
So you see, I come back to what I was saying now about sharing space with people. I listened to your story and just listening to what you said. Because of your brother, you went to a place where all of his coworkers were black at Wrigley Field. You're now associating and seeing black people in their fullness, in their completeness.
It is a lot harder to be racist to black people when you know black persons. It's a lot harder. Because you're like, no, I know Dave and I know Steve and I know Daquan and I know people. I know some are like this. I know some are not like this. Do you get what I'm saying? Yeah. You then go, now you're also in comedy. Then you're in Chappelle's show.
It is a lot harder to be racist to black people when you know black persons. It's a lot harder. Because you're like, no, I know Dave and I know Steve and I know Daquan and I know people. I know some are like this. I know some are not like this. Do you get what I'm saying? Yeah. You then go, now you're also in comedy. Then you're in Chappelle's show.
Again now, you're experiencing black people from all different walks of life. Everyone from most deaf and Talib.
Again now, you're experiencing black people from all different walks of life. Everyone from most deaf and Talib.
When you became more spiritual, I'd love to know, like you and I, many years ago, on The Daily Show, we talked about depression and how it affects people differently. And this is before I knew I had ADHD. And then I was like, oh, mine's not like depression. It's just a byproduct of ADHD at times. Yeah. I want to know from you, what do you think some of the biggest blocks were to you
When you became more spiritual, I'd love to know, like you and I, many years ago, on The Daily Show, we talked about depression and how it affects people differently. And this is before I knew I had ADHD. And then I was like, oh, mine's not like depression. It's just a byproduct of ADHD at times. Yeah. I want to know from you, what do you think some of the biggest blocks were to you
figuring it out. You know, in one special, you're joking about wearing a device on your arm that electrocutes you to remind you to smile and seem more affable. This is a real thing.
figuring it out. You know, in one special, you're joking about wearing a device on your arm that electrocutes you to remind you to smile and seem more affable. This is a real thing.
But then now, you smile more as a person. You just generally... What do you think was the... And it's not the... Let's start with the thing that you did, but tell me what you discovered that shifted you out from under the cloud.
But then now, you smile more as a person. You just generally... What do you think was the... And it's not the... Let's start with the thing that you did, but tell me what you discovered that shifted you out from under the cloud.
But over a long distance, she always got me. She always got me. But I always wanted, like, in a big family, because I craved it most of my life. And then I would meet people in mega big families, and they would say, oh, I felt forgotten. I felt like... There wasn't enough love to go around. Did you feel like that?
But over a long distance, she always got me. She always got me. But I always wanted, like, in a big family, because I craved it most of my life. And then I would meet people in mega big families, and they would say, oh, I felt forgotten. I felt like... There wasn't enough love to go around. Did you feel like that?
It lives in the same world. I think in everything I'm hearing you saying, the facts didn't change. Your house, your car, your life, your job, your friends, your opportunities, that didn't change. Your relation to them changed. Your relationship to them changed.
It lives in the same world. I think in everything I'm hearing you saying, the facts didn't change. Your house, your car, your life, your job, your friends, your opportunities, that didn't change. Your relation to them changed. Your relationship to them changed.
And that's what I think about, funny enough, with genuinely how we see the world a lot of the time, with its things online that offend us, people that make us angry, stories. A lot of the time, it's just your relationship to it. is acknowledging the fact is it has happened or you're seeing it. Yeah. But now what is my relationship to it?
And that's what I think about, funny enough, with genuinely how we see the world a lot of the time, with its things online that offend us, people that make us angry, stories. A lot of the time, it's just your relationship to it. is acknowledging the fact is it has happened or you're seeing it. Yeah. But now what is my relationship to it?
And just shifting that lets you off the hook from feeling like you're wearing a weighted vest. That's what I hear you say.
And just shifting that lets you off the hook from feeling like you're wearing a weighted vest. That's what I hear you say.
But I think life is a balance between the two. I think if we live only in the moment, we neglect.
But I think life is a balance between the two. I think if we live only in the moment, we neglect.
I think it's about finding a balance. That's hard.
I think it's about finding a balance. That's hard.
It's almost impossible because it's like how you look at it. how you choose to relate to it, how you move through. And sometimes you're not choosing it actively, but that's how I understand it.
It's almost impossible because it's like how you look at it. how you choose to relate to it, how you move through. And sometimes you're not choosing it actively, but that's how I understand it.
Oh, anyway, you get your podcast. Fantastic. Yo, Neil, this was... Every time I speak to you, it's a joy. But this was extra special. Thank you for joining us. Thank you, Neil. If someone has to watch one of your specials now, which one do you want them to watch?
Oh, anyway, you get your podcast. Fantastic. Yo, Neil, this was... Every time I speak to you, it's a joy. But this was extra special. Thank you for joining us. Thank you, Neil. If someone has to watch one of your specials now, which one do you want them to watch?
Well, for me, I think of it like Star Wars. Go watch the trilogy. Yes. If you watch three mics and you watch blocks and then you watch Crazy Good, you will know this Neil Brennan and you will see the full evolution. Yeah, you will see the evolution. So different.
Well, for me, I think of it like Star Wars. Go watch the trilogy. Yes. If you watch three mics and you watch blocks and then you watch Crazy Good, you will know this Neil Brennan and you will see the full evolution. Yeah, you will see the evolution. So different.
Neil, thank you so much.
Neil, thank you so much.
It's multiple families in one family. Because most of the time I feel like your siblings sort of not have to be, but you have to be close to them because these are the only people who've shared your existence. But then when there's 10, there's a lot of people who've shared your existence.
It's multiple families in one family. Because most of the time I feel like your siblings sort of not have to be, but you have to be close to them because these are the only people who've shared your existence. But then when there's 10, there's a lot of people who've shared your existence.
I was about to say, that sounds like an insult that someone would say to an African. I'm just going to listen.
I was about to say, that sounds like an insult that someone would say to an African. I'm just going to listen.
Christiana, there are a few things you need to focus on with your siblings. You know, the weirdest thing for me with Black Panther is like, sometimes when I do that, because it's like the accent that they're doing is a South African accent, but they're not a South African accent. So even when I do it, I feel like...
Christiana, there are a few things you need to focus on with your siblings. You know, the weirdest thing for me with Black Panther is like, sometimes when I do that, because it's like the accent that they're doing is a South African accent, but they're not a South African accent. So even when I do it, I feel like...
I have to undo. And you were in it and do a different accent, right? Yeah, yeah, yeah. Because I wanted to match the general accent, so I didn't want to come in there with a weird, like, what is this guy doing? Yeah. So I was like, no, I'll try and figure out the vibe that everyone's in, and then I'll go from there. Yes. So it's very weird for me. Are your parents still alive? My mama's, yeah.
I have to undo. And you were in it and do a different accent, right? Yeah, yeah, yeah. Because I wanted to match the general accent, so I didn't want to come in there with a weird, like, what is this guy doing? Yeah. So I was like, no, I'll try and figure out the vibe that everyone's in, and then I'll go from there. Yes. So it's very weird for me. Are your parents still alive? My mama's, yeah.
Wow. Or 90, 90, yeah. What was it like for you when your dad passed away? Because, you know, you share very openly in your special about how, like, and I think you and I have connected a lot on this. Growing up in a home with a man who's very violent, with his alcohol, like it's a terrifying existence. Yeah. And I think you and I, I don't know, we bond around this.
Wow. Or 90, 90, yeah. What was it like for you when your dad passed away? Because, you know, you share very openly in your special about how, like, and I think you and I have connected a lot on this. Growing up in a home with a man who's very violent, with his alcohol, like it's a terrifying existence. Yeah. And I think you and I, I don't know, we bond around this.
I think a lot of our comedy is shaped by this or this feeling. But I've always wondered, what did it feel like when your dad passed away?
I think a lot of our comedy is shaped by this or this feeling. But I've always wondered, what did it feel like when your dad passed away?
This is What Now? with Trevor Noah. If you don't know Neil Brennan, you probably don't know comedy, right? Neil Brennan is in many ways like the Forrest Gump of comedy. He has been everywhere. He knows everyone. No comedian who is worth their salt in anything... does not have a story about Neil Brennan. I don't care where they're from. I don't care what they're doing.
This is What Now? with Trevor Noah. If you don't know Neil Brennan, you probably don't know comedy, right? Neil Brennan is in many ways like the Forrest Gump of comedy. He has been everywhere. He knows everyone. No comedian who is worth their salt in anything... does not have a story about Neil Brennan. I don't care where they're from. I don't care what they're doing.
We're going to continue this conversation right after this short break.
We're going to continue this conversation right after this short break.
No, I think there was sort of a weird idea I adopted in and around taking over The Daily Show, and it was like, don't make it about you.
No, I think there was sort of a weird idea I adopted in and around taking over The Daily Show, and it was like, don't make it about you.