Ari Shaffir

Date: 2015-01-13 | Duration: 2h 45m

Episode Overview

Ari Shaffir joins Joe Rogan for a wide-ranging conversation that touches on psychedelic experiences, stand-up comedy, and pop culture. They dive into the effects and risks of psychedelics like mushrooms, with Ari sharing candid thoughts on how these substances can blur reality and the importance of caution, especially when mixing with medications. The discussion also veers into memorable stories from Ari’s comedy career, including the challenges of performing at iconic venues like the Comedy Store and the dynamics of hosting open mics and showcases. Ari reflects on the evolving comedy scene, emphasizing the value of persistence, honing craft, and the unique energy of live audiences. The episode also explores Ari’s take on movies and technology, with a nostalgic look at films like *Avatar* and *Godzilla*, and a fascination with advancements in virtual reality and 3D experiences. They discuss the impact of social media and digital platforms on comedy promotion and audience engagement, highlighting how the internet has transformed the way comedians connect with fans. Throughout, Ari’s sharp humor and storytelling provide insight into the life of a working comedian navigating both the art and business of stand-up.

About Ari Shaffir

Ari Shaffir is a comedian and podcaster best known for hosting "Ari Shaffir's Skeptic Tank," a long-running podcast where he explores unconventional topics ranging from drug policy reform to corporate ethics. He recently completed a seven-month extended travel through South America, during which he developed his storytelling special "The End" and continued producing content remotely from exotic locations. Shaffir is known for his willingness to tackle controversial subjects and his independence from traditional media gatekeeping, having previously hosted "This Is Not Happening" on Comedy Central.

Key Moments

– Psychedelic Mushrooms
– Antidepressant Medications
– 3D Movies
– Mixed Martial Arts
– Stand-up Comedy
– Social Media Promotion
– Virtual Reality
– Herpes and Health
– Comedy Clubs
– Automobiles
– Racism and Social Issues
– Podcasting
– Drug Use and Effects
– Comedy Specials
– Online Censorship
– Music and Bands
– Technology and Apps
– Personal Relationships
– Live Performances
– Entertainment Industry
0:01:40 – Discussing experiences with psychedelic mushrooms
0:03:04 – Talking about antidepressant medication interactions
0:06:02 – Choosing sobriety during events
0:09:03 – Wearing 3D paper glasses at movies
0:11:46 – Reactions to the movie Avatar
0:13:29 – Comparing King Kong and Godzilla movies
0:16:01 – Discussing fear-based racism and youth
0:20:14 – Experiences with prescription medications
0:25:32 – Describing a mixed martial arts armbar technique
0:28:27 – Discussing scientific elements in movies
0:32:24 – Upcoming new Avatar movies announced
0:38:25 – Mentioning availability of content on Hulu Plus
0:40:34 – Talking about stand-up comedy specials
0:44:41 – Discussing levels of comedy talent
0:47:38 – Importance of performing in different cities
0:50:18 – Promoting oneself through the internet
0:54:51 – Exploring the journey of a music band
0:57:46 – Sharing personal experience with herpes outbreak
1:03:16 – Story about punching a kid at church
1:05:23 – Critiquing religion and belief systems
1:07:26 – Comedy shows in Las Vegas
1:10:07 – Pool table projection technology
1:13:37 – Realizing everyone has a groupie
1:15:43 – Discussing the best man in a competitive world
1:17:04 – Open mic nights at the comedy store
1:19:09 – Powerful comedy representing middle America
1:22:02 – Clarifying what is and isn’t racist
1:24:44 – Upcoming comedy shows lineup
1:28:01 – Artistic standards and creative environment
1:30:59 – Bo Burnham’s comedy special release
1:34:49 – Discussing street food and eating habits
1:38:12 – Getting high and fighting in a group
1:40:48 – Comedy awards ceremony at the Comedy Store
1:42:07 – Respecting and supporting female comedians
1:50:58 – Features and technology of Porsche 911
2:01:16 – Discussing social class and respect
2:04:38 – Frustrations with smartphone use
2:14:27 – Virtual reality’s stunning realism
2:18:58 – Need to disconnect from technology
2:22:02 – Explaining why calling something racist isn’t racist
2:25:01 – Comedy specials available on Comedy Central app
2:30:25 – Sharing how people used to trade comedy tapes
2:34:45 – Discussing the business side of entertainment
2:39:24 – Upcoming comedy shows and appearances

Transcript Excerpt

Starting point is 00:00:00 I'm ready, Jimmy. Starting point is 00:01:05 were over a billion Starting point is 00:01:22 Is it really? Starting point is 00:01:33 Just one big one? Starting point is 00:01:40 This last Shroom Fest, we just kept taking them. Starting point is 00:01:56 I don't know if it's from that or just mild schizophrenia. Starting point is 00:02:19 Yeah, I would say if reality is at all slippery, just hold off on that. Starting point is 00:02:40 Really? Starting point is 00:02:49 Just tell them what you're doing. Starting point is 00:02:58 Mm-hmm. Starting point is 00:03:04 You're taking this type of antidepressant medication. Starting point is 00:03:16 He goes, no, not a thing. Starting point is 00:03:31 taking MAOIs, Starting point is 00:03:51 Oh, really? Starting point is 00:04:13 is a natural MAOI inhibitor, Starting point is 00:04:40 like that yeah there will the experiment mean, Tim Ferriss has this statement or this saying, Starting point is 00:05:17 It's just the idea is finding like what does the least amount of damage and the most amount of benefit? Yeah, it's fun Starting point is 00:05:35 Oh, no. Starting point is 00:05:45 No, thank you. Starting point is 00:06:02 Why sober for this? Starting point is 00:06:15 Well, they have alcohol at California Adventure. Starting point is 00:06:33 It's real alcohol. Starting point is 00:06:49 Yeah, Starting point is 00:06:54 It's more than that. Starting point is 00:07:02 Didn't Dice have Club 43 Starting point is 00:07:12 You gotta know what it is. Starting point is 00:07:29 We used to have Diaz offs at like the Brea Improv. Starting point is 00:07:40 His Diaz was better. Starting point is 00:07:52 Well he was also, yeah. Starting point is 00:08:07 Yeah. Starting point is 00:08:21 Yeah, I forgot who won. Starting point is 00:08:48 A little. Starting point is 00:09:03 these fucking ridiculous paper glasses we're wearing. Starting point is 00:09:24 3D movie screen. Starting point is 00:09:48 Like, when...

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Frequently asked about this episode

Who was the guest on Joe Rogan Experience #600?

Ari Shaffir was the guest on JRE #600. This page includes the episode overview, topics discussed, and related resources.

What topics were discussed on JRE #600?

On Joe Rogan Experience #600 with Ari Shaffir, topics include Psychedelic Mushrooms, Antidepressant Medications, 3D Movies, and Mixed Martial Arts.

Where can I read the transcript for JRE #600?

The full searchable transcript for Joe Rogan Experience #600 with Ari Shaffir is available on this page, along with key topics and timestamps.