Digest

Mark Marin hosts a podcast episode featuring Brendan Walsh, a fellow comedian and podcaster. The episode begins with Mark sharing personal updates about his life in Canada, including his work on a show and his thoughts on his late partner, Lynne Shelton. He then announces upcoming shows and introduces Brendan as his guest, highlighting their long-standing friendship. The conversation delves into reflections on life and change, with Mark emphasizing the importance of checking in with people and appreciating the journey. He also shares his ongoing struggles with food and introduces NUME, a weight loss program that combines psychology and biology. Brendan discusses his podcasting journey, starting with the Bone Zone in 2011, the loss of his co-host Richard Bane, and the creation of his current podcast, the World Record Podcast. He reflects on the end of the Bone Zone podcast, coinciding with the rise of Patreon, and his subsequent attempts to create new podcasts. The conversation then turns to the heartbreaking news of Richard Bane's suicide and the impact of his loss. Mark and Brendan discuss the prevalence of suicidal thoughts in the comedy world and the challenges of dealing with grief. They also discuss the impact of COVID and isolation on their lives and the lives of others, reflecting on the challenges of navigating a world that has changed significantly. They emphasize the importance of having a strong support system and share their experiences with losing friends during the pandemic. The conversation explores the dangers of isolation and alcoholism, particularly in the context of the COVID pandemic, highlighting the importance of social interaction and support. They also discuss the impact of social media on society, particularly the rise of tribalism and the challenges of navigating a polarized world. Mark and Brendan discuss the overwhelming amount of information available online and the importance of setting boundaries to protect mental health. They emphasize the need to curate a healthy digital environment and avoid being sucked into someone else's caravan. Brendan shares stories about his experiences opening for Joe Rogan, his decision to maintain his independence, and his past conflict with Red Band. He discusses the challenges of navigating the comedy world and the importance of being honest, even when it's difficult. The conversation concludes with reflections on the tribalization of comedy and the changing landscape of show business. Mark and Brendan discuss the importance of maintaining independence and avoiding being sucked into someone else's caravan, reflecting on the potential consequences of aligning oneself with a particular group.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Personal Updates, Upcoming Shows, and Guest Introduction

Mark Marin introduces his podcast and shares personal updates about his life in Canada, including his work on a show and his thoughts on his late partner, Lynne Shelton. He then announces upcoming shows in Tucson and Phoenix, and introduces Brendan Walsh as his guest, highlighting their long-standing friendship and Brendan's previous appearances on the podcast.

00:03:15

Reflecting on Life and Change, Personal Reflections, and NUME Advertisement

Mark reflects on the passage of time and how much life can change in 14 years, emphasizing the importance of checking in with people and appreciating the journey. He also shares his ongoing struggles with food and introduces NUME, a weight loss program that combines psychology and biology, emphasizing its personalized approach and focus on progress over perfection.

00:09:50

Regrets and Accepting Life, Obsession with Gums and Sonic Care Toothbrush, Adam Sandler's Standup Special and Josh Safty's Direction

Mark discusses his lack of regrets but acknowledges the lingering expectations of relevance and success, emphasizing his desire to accept life as it is and let go of those expectations. He shares his obsession with his receding gums and his experience with a Sonic Care toothbrush, highlighting the marketing and perceived scientific nature of the product. Mark discusses his past issues with Adam Sandler and his recent viewing of Sandler's standup special, directed by Josh Safty, praising the special's originality and Safty's unique directing style.

00:18:18

Interview with Brendan Walsh, Brendan Walsh's Podcast Journey, Brendan's Comedy Career and Richard Bane's Passing

Mark introduces his interview with Brendan Walsh, the host of the World Record Podcast, and provides a content warning about the discussion of suicide. Brendan discusses his podcasting journey, starting with the Bone Zone in 2011, the loss of his co-host Richard Bane, and the creation of his current podcast, the World Record Podcast. Mark expresses his admiration for Brendan's comedy career and discusses the tragic passing of Richard Bane, highlighting his impact on the Bone Zone podcast.

00:26:52

The Bone Zone and Patreon, Richard Bane's Suicide and Dealing with Loss, The Impact of COVID and Isolation

Brendan reflects on the end of the Bone Zone podcast, coinciding with the rise of Patreon, and his subsequent attempts to create new podcasts, including a project with Nick Thune. Brendan shares the heartbreaking news of Richard Bane's suicide and discusses the impact of his loss, reflecting on the prevalence of suicidal thoughts in the comedy world. Mark and Brendan discuss the impact of COVID and isolation on their lives and the lives of others, reflecting on the challenges of navigating a world that has changed significantly.

00:35:37

Friendships and Support Systems, The Dangers of Isolation and Alcoholism, The Impact of Social Media and the Rise of Tribalism

Mark and Brendan discuss the importance of having a strong support system, particularly in the face of adversity, and share their experiences with losing friends during the COVID pandemic. Mark and Brendan discuss the dangers of isolation and alcoholism, particularly in the context of the COVID pandemic, highlighting the importance of social interaction and support. Mark and Brendan discuss the impact of social media on society, particularly the rise of tribalism and the challenges of navigating a polarized world.

00:42:40

The Overwhelm of Information and the Importance of Boundaries, Gifts and Memories, Rogan Tribe and Defying Expectations

Mark and Brendan discuss the overwhelming amount of information available online and the importance of setting boundaries to protect mental health, emphasizing the need to curate a healthy digital environment. Mark and Brendan discuss their shared love of music and Brendan's gift of a Jack Handy book, reflecting on their past conversations and the importance of shared experiences. Mark and Brendan discuss the rise of the Rogan tribe and Brendan's decision to defy expectations and not align himself with that group, reflecting on the potential financial benefits of playing the game but choosing to maintain his independence.

00:47:24

Rogan's Success and Brendan's Independence, Red Band and the Improv, Honesty and Insults in Comedy

Brendan discusses his experiences opening for Joe Rogan and his decision to maintain his independence, acknowledging the potential for conflict and the importance of staying true to himself. Brendan shares a story about a past conflict with Red Band, highlighting the challenges of navigating the comedy world and the importance of being honest, even when it's difficult. Mark and Brendan discuss the challenges of delivering insults in comedy, particularly when they are not intended to be humorous, reflecting on the importance of honesty and the potential for conflict.

00:51:50

Tribalization of Comedy and the New Show Business, The Power of Independence and Avoiding Caravans, Doug Stanhope and the Road

Mark and Brendan discuss the tribalization of comedy and the changing landscape of show business, reflecting on the challenges of navigating a new era of entertainment. Mark and Brendan discuss the importance of maintaining independence and avoiding being sucked into someone else's caravan, reflecting on the potential consequences of aligning oneself with a particular group. Brendan shares a story about his decision to decline a tour with Doug Stanhope, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a balance between pursuing a career and personal life.

00:56:38

Amicable Break-up with an Opener, Reflecting on Career Choices, The Struggle with Disrespect

Brendan recounts a positive experience where he declined an opening slot on a tour, finding it a refreshing change from past experiences. He discusses the challenges of being an opener and the pressure to perform well, even when overshadowed by the headliner. Brendan reflects on his career path, acknowledging that he started stand-up later than many and feels he's behind in some ways. He shares a story about a past encounter with Marc Maron, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself and not being afraid to take risks. Brendan discusses his experiences with club owners and the challenges of dealing with disrespect. He shares a humorous anecdote about sending a club owner a headshot with a drawing of a cock going into his mouth, highlighting his rebellious nature and his refusal to conform.

01:03:54

A Turning Point in Calgary, Finding the Right Train, The Impact of COVID

Brendan recounts a particularly difficult experience at a comedy club in Calgary, where he was surrounded by a rowdy crowd and felt overwhelmed. This experience served as a turning point, leading him to question his career path and ultimately prompting him to make changes. Brendan reflects on his journey in comedy, acknowledging that he took a long time to find his footing and that he made some mistakes along the way. He compares his career to a train journey, emphasizing the importance of finding the right path and not being afraid to change course. Brendan discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic gave him time to reflect on his career and make changes. He realized that he needed to find a new approach to stand-up and that he was no longer comfortable with his old material.

01:11:00

Embracing a New Style, The Evolution of Crank Calls, Finding His Voice

Brendan describes his current stand-up style, which involves live crank calls on stage. He explains how this format allows him to be more spontaneous and less reliant on rehearsed material, giving him a sense of freedom and authenticity. Brendan discusses his approach to crank calls, emphasizing that they are not about being mean-spirited but rather about creating surreal and humorous situations. He shares examples of his calls, highlighting his creativity and ability to connect with people in unexpected ways. Brendan reflects on his journey to find his voice in comedy, acknowledging that he initially struggled to find his own style. He discusses the importance of being true to oneself and not being afraid to experiment, even if it means taking risks.

01:20:27

Back to Vaudeville

Brendan discusses his decision to focus on stand-up and his newfound appreciation for the art form. He acknowledges that he's not good at the business side of comedy but is happy to be back doing what he loves.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of the key takeaways from Mark Marin's conversation with Brendan Walsh?

  The conversation highlights the challenges of navigating the comedy world, the importance of maintaining independence, and the impact of loss and isolation. It also explores the changing landscape of show business and the role of social media in shaping our lives.

• How does Brendan Walsh's podcasting journey reflect the broader changes in the comedy industry?

  Brendan's journey from the Bone Zone to the World Record Podcast reflects the shift towards more personal and intimate content, as well as the growing popularity of podcasting as a platform for comedians to connect with audiences.

• What are some of the challenges that Mark Marin and Brendan Walsh have faced in their careers?

  Both Mark and Brendan have faced challenges related to navigating the complexities of the comedy world, dealing with loss and grief, and managing the impact of social media and isolation.

• How does the conversation address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the comedy industry and society as a whole?

  The conversation explores the impact of COVID-19 on the comedy industry, including the shift to online performances and the challenges of social isolation. It also reflects on the broader societal impact of the pandemic, including the rise of mental health issues and the polarization of society.

• What are some of the key insights that Mark Marin and Brendan Walsh share about the importance of maintaining independence and setting boundaries?

  Both Mark and Brendan emphasize the importance of maintaining independence and setting boundaries, particularly in the context of the comedy industry and the overwhelming nature of social media. They highlight the need to avoid being sucked into someone else's caravan and to curate a healthy digital environment.

• What was Brendan's experience like when he declined an opening slot on a tour?

  Brendan found the experience to be positive and amicable, a refreshing change from the pressure he often felt as an opener. He was happy to not have to worry about performing well under the shadow of the headliner.

• How did Brendan's experience at the comedy club in Calgary affect him?

  The experience was a turning point for Brendan, leading him to question his career path and ultimately prompting him to make changes. He realized that he needed to find a new approach to stand-up and that he was no longer comfortable with his old material.

• What is Brendan's current stand-up style?

  Brendan's current stand-up style involves live crank calls on stage. He finds this format to be more spontaneous and less reliant on rehearsed material, giving him a sense of freedom and authenticity.

• How does Brendan approach crank calls?

  Brendan's crank calls are not about being mean-spirited but rather about creating surreal and humorous situations. He uses his creativity to connect with people in unexpected ways, often using voice changers or impersonations.

• What is Brendan's perspective on finding his voice in comedy?

  Brendan believes that finding one's voice in comedy is a journey that involves being true to oneself and not being afraid to experiment, even if it means taking risks. He acknowledges that he initially struggled to find his own style but is now happy with the direction he's taken.

Show Notes