Ari Shaffir

Date: 2015-03-09 | Duration: 2h 21m

Category: Comedy

Episode Overview

Ari Shaffir joins Joe Rogan for a candid conversation that spans his early days struggling in Hollywood to his rise in the comedy world. They reflect on Shaffir’s time working at the Comedy Store, sharing stories about the legendary atmosphere and the tough grind of open mic nights. Ari discusses how those formative experiences shaped his comedic voice and work ethic, recalling encounters with iconic comedians like Louie Anderson and Russell Peters. The episode highlights the importance of perseverance and authenticity in comedy, with Ari emphasizing how he stayed true to his style despite industry pressures. The discussion also delves into Shaffir’s relationship with cannabis and how it influences his creative process. He shares insights on the balance between being high and performing, describing how marijuana can heighten awareness and inspire spontaneous humor without compromising delivery. Additionally, the conversation touches on Shaffir’s fascination with combat sports, particularly boxing and UFC, where he analyzes memorable fights and fighters’ mindsets, blending his passion for sports with his sharp observational humor. Throughout the episode, Ari’s storytelling shines with a mix of humor and introspection, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of a comedian navigating fame, creativity, and personal growth.

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

– Stand-up Comedy
– Comedy Clubs
– Open Mic Nights
– Comedy Writing
– Drug Culture
– Marijuana Effects
– Mixed Martial Arts
– Boxing History
– UFC
– Comedy Podcasts
– Comedy Industry
– Comedy Storytelling
– Comedy Influences
– Comedy Performance
– Celebrity Culture
– Historical Figures
– Drug Addiction
– Comedy Specials
– Comedy Billboards
– Comedy Collaborations
0:00:00 – Discussion about new theme song
0:00:35 – Living destitute in Hollywood area
0:03:22 – Sebastian as a comedy example
0:06:18 – Doing open mic nights and early comedy
0:07:44 – Mention of Russell Peters' early career
0:09:35 – Louie calling the punchline for a comedian
0:11:46 – Preparing for showcases like Montreal and Conan
0:15:06 – Laughing and talking about weed and life
0:18:37 – Todd McCormick to explain historical context
0:20:53 – Comparison of high effects to jiu-jitsu
0:23:34 – Smoking habits in late 90s and early 2000s
0:27:57 – Taking Joe Diaz on the road
0:30:31 – Learning comedy at the Comedy Store
0:39:15 – Kroll Show billboard discussion
0:43:29 – Success of comedy shows and funny guys
0:44:24 – Encouraging more people to do comedy
0:45:27 – Dane Cook's claim about stolen essence
0:48:54 – Courtney Love and personal anecdotes
0:51:24 – Curiosity about drug experiences
0:56:13 – Amerigo Vespucci and naming America
1:00:59 – Hypothetical about confronting Ted Bundy
1:07:41 – Virgil Hill's Olympic silver medal
1:08:50 – Roy Jones knockout with body shot
1:09:42 – UFC founding in 1994
1:12:07 – UFC fans' knowledge of fighters' records
1:15:09 – One-man show inspired by Raging Bull
1:17:05 – Fighter's confidence and fear before fight
1:18:35 – Discussion of greatest fighter ever lived
1:20:44 – Wishing to stay in touch with someone
1:22:16 – Duncan's tangerine tree and care
1:27:22 – Impact of farm bill on business
1:30:59 – Girls shaving and personal hygiene talk
1:33:11 – Joey Diaz's storytelling technique
1:36:20 – Becoming a paid regular at comedy club
1:39:36 – Taking comedy to act breaks
2:03:14 – Aaron Pryor's controversial fight
2:06:25 – Muhammad Ali's fight with Henry Cooper
2:11:45 – Claim of beating Muhammad Ali
2:13:05 – Mike Tyson's dominant boxing career
2:15:39 – Closing remarks and farewell

Transcript Excerpt

Starting point is 00:00:00 Song, is that the whole name of the song? Starting point is 00:00:15 Oh, nice. That's a great new theme song. Starting point is 00:00:35 Yeah, as he was fucking destitute, living in this little shitty area of Hollywood. Starting point is 00:00:49 I remember every time I'd visit you, Starting point is 00:00:57 And then eventually the homeless people started moving in. Starting point is 00:01:09 No. Starting point is 00:01:25 with this weird horn thing like on the railing in a corner and i asked my friend there i was like Starting point is 00:01:54 building up in there, people would... Starting point is 00:02:19 pink dot he goes how about we only enter through the pink dot parking lot and they're like still Starting point is 00:02:33 I got the deal. Starting point is 00:02:56 You were never moving back, dude. Starting point is 00:03:07 Well, I knew when we first met. Starting point is 00:03:22 Like, Sebastian is a really good example. Starting point is 00:03:56 told you so what's seven times four it's an easy one you're like 11 you're like no you're awful Starting point is 00:04:33 tony yeah i had a conversation with him afterwards i go dude you're really funny you could really do Starting point is 00:05:06 These jokes do better. Starting point is 00:05:26 But the reality is he was talking to some young new guy who was like, I don't know, Starting point is 00:05:42 So like, he's probably so tired of hearing that. Starting point is 00:06:18 And I was just doing open mic nights. Yeah, I did the comedy connection once Starting point is 00:06:56 And so I think that when I remember that like back in those days Starting point is 00:07:17 Right. Starting point is 00:07:28 That's ridiculous. That sounds so crazy. Starting point is 00:07:44 Russell Peters. perfect example. Starting point is 00:07:57 And they were just talking in the front. Starting point is 00:08:11 You don't get up here? Starting point is 00:08:23 Yeah, you could overpower. Starting...

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Frequently asked about this episode

Who was the guest on Joe Rogan Experience #623?

Ari Shaffir was the guest on JRE #623. This page includes the episode overview, topics discussed, and related resources.

What topics were discussed on JRE #623?

On Joe Rogan Experience #623 with Ari Shaffir, topics include Stand-up Comedy, Comedy Clubs, Open Mic Nights, and Comedy Writing.

Where can I read the transcript for JRE #623?

The full searchable transcript for Joe Rogan Experience #623 with Ari Shaffir is available on this page, along with key topics and timestamps.