Joe Rogan Experience #870 - Bert Kreischer

Episode Summary

Main Topics Discussed

• Marijuana Legalization in California: Bert and Joe discuss the immediate aftermath of Prop 64 passing, concerns about dispensary logistics, and the comparison to Colorado's rollout.
• Post-Election Chaos & Debate: A detailed recount of their election night podcast with Bill Burr, Sarah Tiana, and other comedians, highlighting the intense political discussions and Burr's clash with Tiana.
• Hillary Clinton's Presidential Campaign: An in-depth analysis of why Hillary Clinton lost the election, focusing on perceived corruption, health concerns, and the email scandal.
• Bert Kreischer's Comedy Special "The Machine": Promotion for Bert's upcoming Showtime special, including his decision to film it in a club and perform shirtless, and the "blessing and curse" of his famous "Machine" story.
• The Craft of Stand-up Comedy: Discussion on the importance of venues like The Comedy Store ("The O") for developing material, writing processes, and the grind of performing multiple sets nightly.

Key Insights & Memorable Moments

• Bert expresses concern that new marijuana laws will clog up dispensaries, making it harder for existing patients.
• The election night podcast was deemed "the most fun I've ever had on a podcast," culminating in Bill Burr, usually a whiskey guy, taking a legitimate hit from a joint after Prop 64 passed.
• The debate between Bill Burr and Sarah Tiana became heated over "elitist liberal movements" and the tendency to label those with differing political views.
• Joe and Bert theorize that a significant portion of America voted for Trump because they were "disenfranchised" and didn't want to be called names for their opinions, and that Hillary Clinton was seen as too flawed and tied to corruption.
• Bert describes the "Machine" story as both a blessing and a curse; while it brought him fame and opportunities, he feels pressure from fans to tell it at every show.
• The Comedy Store is referred to as a "gym" for comedians, crucial for working out material and identifying flaws in bits.
• Bert explains his shirtless stage persona as a feeling of "freedom," a "psychological button" that connects to his "Florida Kid" roots.

Notable Quotes or Revelations

• Bert on post-legalization: "I'm just worried that they're going to clog up the dispensaries."
• Joe on the election night podcast: "That was probably the most fun I've ever had on a podcast."
• Bert on the election's outcome: "I think there was a large portion of America who just didn't want to share their opinion cuz they didn't want to be called a name."
• Joe on Hillary's email scandal: "If you were a regular person... you'd be [expletive]... they'll put you in a goddamn cage 100%."
• Bert on his "Machine" story: "it's amazing what a what a what a blessing and a curse that is."
• Joe describing Bert: "you're such a nice guy who's also a wild man."
• Bert on the Comedy Store: "that room has got more history in it than any room in the country... it's a gym."

Overall Themes

• Political Division and Disenfranchisement: The episode delves into the deep divides within American society post-election, exploring the reasons behind public sentiment and the pitfalls of labeling opposing viewpoints.
• The Impact of Cannabis Legalization: The conversation touches on the practical and social implications of newly legalized recreational marijuana, from consumer behavior to economic benefits.
• The Comedian's Journey: A strong theme revolves around the dedication, self-critique, and relentless work required to hone the craft of stand-up comedy, balancing creative expression with audience expectations.
• Identity and Performance: Bert's discussion of his shirtless persona and the "Machine" story highlights the complex relationship between a comedian's personal identity, their material, and public perception.