Brian Simpson on the Joe Rogan Experience: Hilarious Takes on Comedy, Life, and More
Ever wondered what it’s like to navigate the comedy scene, wrestle with existential dread, and find humor in the everyday absurdities of life? Well, buckle up, because Joe Rogan’s latest JRE episode with comedian Brian Simpson is a wild ride. Simpson, known for his dark humor and unique perspective, dives deep into everything from his comedic inspirations to the struggles of being a working comedian. This episode is packed with laughs, insightful observations, and surprisingly poignant moments. Let’s break it down!
TL;DR
- Brian Simpson discusses his comedy influences, ranging from Bill Burr to Norm Macdonald, and how they’ve shaped his style.
- Simpson shares humorous stories about his experiences as a comedian, including awkward gigs and encounters with eccentric audience members.
- The conversation touches on the challenges of finding your voice in comedy and staying true to your unique perspective.
- Simpson and Rogan delve into deeper topics like dealing with depression and finding meaning in life.
- Simpson emphasizes the importance of resilience and perseverance in pursuing a career in comedy.
Key Topics Covered
Comedy Inspirations and Influences
Brian Simpson credits a wide range of comedians for shaping his comedic sensibilities. He mentions Bill Burr’s observational humor and stage presence as a significant influence, along with Norm Macdonald’s dry wit and unconventional delivery. Simpson emphasizes that he tries to incorporate a bit of each of his idols into his own unique style, while always striving to be original. He appreciates comedians who aren’t afraid to push boundaries and challenge conventional thinking.
The discussion then shifts to the importance of finding your own voice as a comedian. Simpson explains how he spent years experimenting with different styles and approaches before finally settling on the dark, observational humor that defines his act today. Rogan agrees, noting that authenticity is key to connecting with an audience and building a successful career.
“You gotta find what makes you, you. Otherwise, you’re just doing an impression of someone else.” – Brian Simpson
The Realities of Being a Comedian
Simpson doesn’t shy away from discussing the less glamorous aspects of being a comedian. He recounts numerous stories of performing in less-than-ideal venues, facing hecklers, and dealing with the constant pressure to be funny. These anecdotes, while often hilarious, also offer a glimpse into the challenges and sacrifices that comedians make to pursue their passion. Rogan chimes in with his own experiences, sharing stories from his early days in comedy.
One thing that really stood out was Simpson’s openness about the financial struggles that many comedians face, especially when starting out. He talks about working odd jobs to make ends meet and the constant hustle required to secure gigs and build a following. It’s a reminder that even successful comedians have often faced significant challenges along the way.
“Comedy’s not always pretty. Sometimes you’re bombing in front of five people in a bowling alley at 2 AM. But you gotta keep going.” – Brian Simpson
Life, Depression, and Finding Meaning
The conversation takes a surprisingly introspective turn as Simpson and Rogan discuss their personal experiences with depression and mental health. Simpson opens up about his own struggles with depression, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and not being afraid to talk about your feelings. Rogan shares his own perspective on the topic, noting that many people struggle with mental health issues but are hesitant to seek treatment due to stigma.
They also touch on the search for meaning and purpose in life. Simpson reflects on the challenges of finding fulfillment in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain. He suggests that finding something you’re passionate about, whether it’s comedy or something else entirely, can be a powerful way to combat feelings of emptiness and despair. Rogan emphasizes the importance of gratitude and appreciating the simple things in life.
Intriguing Anecdotes & Stories
One particularly funny story involves Simpson recounting a gig where he performed for a group of taxidermists at a convention. He describes the bizarre scene of being surrounded by stuffed animals and trying to make jokes that would resonate with an audience whose primary interest was preserving dead creatures. The story is hilarious in its absurdity and highlights the unpredictable nature of being a comedian.
Simpson also shares a touching story about a time when he was feeling particularly down and a fan approached him after a show to tell him how much his comedy had helped them through a difficult time. This experience served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that comedy can have on people’s lives and gave him a renewed sense of purpose.
Conclusion
This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience with Brian Simpson is a captivating blend of humor, insightful observations, and surprisingly poignant moments. Simpson’s unique comedic style and honest reflections on life make for a compelling and entertaining conversation. This episode is particularly interesting for aspiring comedians, fans of dark humor, and anyone who appreciates a candid conversation about the challenges and rewards of pursuing your passion. Definitely worth a listen (or a watch!).
Watch the Full Episode
If this summary piqued your interest, you definitely need to check out the full conversation. There are so many more hilarious and insightful moments that you won’t want to miss!
Joe Rogan Experience #1751 – Brian Simpson on YouTube