Laughs and Insights with Adam Sandler

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Joe Rogan Experience #2187 - Adam Sandler

PowerfulJRE

Aug 13, 2024

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People & Blogs

Adam Sandler's comedy journey and fitness challenges

  1. Adam Sandler and Joe Rogan have known each other for a long time, and they reminisce about their past experiences, including the film 'Zookeeper' from 14 years ago. They discuss the passage of time and how quickly it seems to fly by.
  2. Sandler shares his early stand-up comedy experiences, mentioning how he met Kevin James (KJ) early in his career. They met at the East Side Comedy Club on Long Island, a place known for its vibrant comedy scene.
  3. The conversation touches on other comedians like Carol Leifer and Kevin Meany, highlighting their impact on Sandler and Rogan. Sandler recalls seeing Leifer perform when he was a teenager and being impressed by her skills.
  4. Kevin Meany is remembered fondly by both Sandler and Rogan. Sandler recounts a time when Meany offered him encouragement after a poor performance, which left a lasting impression on him.
  5. Sandler talks about his film career, mentioning how his movies helped people, including Rogan's family, during the pandemic. They discuss the possibility of a sequel to 'You Don't Mess with the Zohan,' but Sandler expresses doubts about getting back into shape for the role.
  6. The discussion shifts to fitness, with Sandler admitting he struggles to maintain a workout routine as he ages. Rogan encourages him to start slow and build up gradually, emphasizing the importance of consistency.
  7. The podcast includes a sponsorship message for ZipRecruiter, highlighting its effectiveness in helping employers find qualified candidates quickly.

Balance and moderation in lifestyle

  1. The conversation emphasizes the importance of balance in physical fitness, suggesting that one should push their body enough to strengthen it without causing exhaustion or injury. It highlights the need for gradual improvement, similar to how one gradually becomes unwell over time.
  2. The discussion touches on dietary habits, recommending a balanced approach with limited cheat days. The idea is to progressively reduce the number of cheat days to maintain a healthier diet over time.
  3. Intermittent fasting is mentioned as a dietary strategy, with a personal anecdote about skipping breakfast and the challenges of sticking to a strict eating window.
  4. The conversation includes a humorous take on indulgence, with a specific mention of Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches as a 'better' treat due to lower calories, though the speaker admits to overindulging.
  5. Physical activity is highlighted as crucial, with basketball being a preferred exercise due to its enjoyable nature. The importance of finding an activity one enjoys is stressed to maintain consistency in fitness routines.
  6. The conversation shifts to martial arts, discussing its benefits and the fun aspect of engaging in such activities. Flexibility is noted as an achievable goal through consistent practice, despite initial challenges.
  7. Anecdotes about personal experiences with martial arts and flexibility training are shared, illustrating the journey from inflexibility to improved flexibility through regular practice.
  8. The conversation briefly touches on the entertainment industry, with references to past experiences on shows like 'Saturday Night Live' and 'News Radio,' highlighting the camaraderie and challenges faced by performers.
  9. The speaker reflects on their return to stand-up comedy after a long hiatus, inspired by peers and the excitement of performing live. The process of getting back into stand-up is described as piecing together material and enjoying the creative outlet.

Adam Sandler's standup and film journey

  1. Adam Sandler discusses his approach to writing and performing standup comedy, initially starting with writing jokes with friends and performing on shows like Letterman. He trusted his instincts to determine if a joke was good enough to perform.
  2. Sandler re-entered the standup scene by reaching out to a booking agent, leading to a 10-city tour. He prepared by performing at various comedy clubs, including The Improv and Comedy and Magic Club, to refine his material.
  3. He reflects on the challenge of performing long sets, initially struggling with an hour but eventually managing two-hour shows. Sandler mentions the difficulty of overlapping material and the need to keep the audience engaged.
  4. Joe Rogan shares his experience of preparing for a live special, emphasizing the importance of over-preparation. He performed multiple shows weekly and used a unique method involving audience-suggested premises to develop new material.
  5. Rogan describes the pressure and fear of performing a live special, initially declining Netflix's offer but later accepting it as a challenge. He meticulously prepared by writing out all his bits and transitions to ensure a seamless performance.
  6. Sandler and Rogan discuss the creative process behind making movies, with Sandler explaining how he collaborates with his college friend to develop film ideas. They focus on creating fun and silly movies that resonate with audiences.
  7. Sandler acknowledges the mixed critical reception of his films but values audience appreciation. He notes that during the COVID-19 lockdown, his films provided entertainment and comfort to many, highlighting their enduring appeal.

Delusion aids early career persistence

  1. Adam Sandler reflects on his early career aspirations, expressing a strong desire to be in movies and a belief in his eventual success despite initial failures. He shares how he would tell his high school friends about his future success, which motivated him to persevere even when he faced setbacks.
  2. Sandler discusses the concept of 'faking it until you make it,' recounting how he would often pretend to have performed well even when he hadn't. He shares an anecdote about performing poorly in front of Robin Williams but changing the narrative to maintain his confidence.
  3. The conversation touches on the value of youthful delusion, suggesting that it can serve as a protective mechanism while one develops their skills. Sandler admits to being delusional about his talent, which helped him persist through challenging times.
  4. Joe Rogan and Sandler discuss the importance of having a 'spark' or innate talent that can be developed into something special. They note that while self-belief is crucial, it must be accompanied by genuine ability to succeed in the long term.
  5. Sandler reminisces about his early days in comedy, practicing relentlessly and performing at small clubs. He describes the anxiety and fear he felt before performances but also the determination to improve and succeed.
  6. The discussion highlights the camaraderie among comedians, with Sandler mentioning his friendship with Greg Fitzsimmons and their shared experiences of uncertainty and hope during their early careers.
  7. Rogan and Sandler talk about the challenges of corporate gigs, where the audience may not be receptive to comedy. They share experiences of performing at such events and the difficulties of engaging an audience that is not there specifically for comedy.
  8. The conversation concludes with a comparison between comedians and musicians, noting that musicians can rely on their songs to engage an audience, whereas comedians depend heavily on audience response. This reliance makes comedy performances particularly challenging in non-traditional settings.

Stand-up comedy's unique challenges and collaborations

  1. Adam Sandler discusses the challenges of stand-up comedy, emphasizing the unique experience of performing live and the personal nature of each comedian's style. He compares bombing on stage to an embarrassing experience, highlighting the vulnerability involved.
  2. Sandler and Rogan talk about the importance of collaboration in comedy, noting how input from others can enhance a performance. They mention how comedians like Chris Rock use feedback from peers to improve their acts.
  3. The conversation touches on the collaborative nature of filmmaking, with Sandler explaining how he works with a team to develop ideas and improve scenes. This teamwork is likened to the collaborative process in stand-up comedy.
  4. Sandler describes his approach to touring with other comedians, preferring to bring talented performers to ensure a high-quality show. He believes in having strong opening acts to maintain audience engagement and energy.
  5. The discussion shifts to the endurance and performance of legendary rock bands like Guns N' Roses and The Rolling Stones, who continue to perform energetically despite their age. This is used as a metaphor for the stamina required in comedy.
  6. Rogan and Sandler reflect on the evolution of rock stars, noting how the concept of aging rock stars was once unimaginable. They reminisce about the impact of bands like Van Halen during their youth.
  7. The conversation ends with anecdotes about David Lee Roth, highlighting his eccentric lifestyle and dedication to martial arts, which adds to his unique persona.

Challenges and dynamics in rock bands

  1. The conversation begins with a discussion about a performer known for his athletic stage presence, highlighting his dedication to training in Kendo, a Japanese sword fighting art, while living in Japan with his dog. This illustrates his commitment to his craft and unique lifestyle choices.
  2. The challenges of maintaining harmony within a band are explored, with references to famous bands like Van Halen and The Who. The discussion touches on the common issues of egos, interpersonal conflicts, and the impact of external relationships on band dynamics.
  3. The conversation highlights the difficulty of keeping a band together, using U2 as an example of a band that has managed to maintain good relationships among its members, which is considered a significant asset.
  4. The discussion shifts to the dynamics within Van Halen, focusing on the tension between band members due to the prominence of the lead singer, David Lee Roth, and the band's name being associated with the Van Halen brothers.
  5. The conversation includes anecdotes about the rock and roll lifestyle, such as the influence of Rob Halford from Judas Priest on fashion, and the humorous realization of being tricked into dressing like a gay biker.
  6. The speakers reminisce about their own experiences with fashion and music, sharing personal stories about trying to emulate rock stars and the challenges of fitting into certain styles.
  7. The conversation touches on the impact of Aerosmith's collaboration with Run DMC on their career, highlighting how it revitalized their popularity and introduced them to a new generation of fans.
  8. The speakers discuss the cyclical nature of music popularity, noting how bands can fade and then regain popularity through new collaborations or rediscovery by younger audiences.
  9. The conversation concludes with reflections on the differences between being a comedian and a rock star, noting the freedom and simplicity of stand-up comedy compared to the complexities of performing with a band.

Music and comedy shape personal experiences

  1. The conversation begins with a discussion about the excitement and energy of live rock concerts, comparing it to a drug-like experience that overwhelms the senses. The speakers reminisce about their first concerts, mentioning bands like Jay Geils Band and Aerosmith, highlighting the impact these experiences had on them.
  2. Adam Sandler shares his early job experiences, including working at Great Woods, a venue where he saw many concerts and comedians. He recalls seeing famous comedians like Sam Kinison and Rodney Dangerfield, describing Kinison's unique comedic style and how it influenced his perception of comedy.
  3. The discussion shifts to martial arts, with one speaker explaining how his passion for martial arts overtook his interest in traditional sports. He describes how martial arts became his primary focus, leading him to disregard other sports and follow his own path.
  4. The speakers discuss the dangers and consequences of street fights, emphasizing the unpredictability and potential for serious harm. They share personal anecdotes about avoiding fights and the importance of understanding the consequences of violence.
  5. The conversation touches on the idea of self-awareness and the ability to ignore negative opinions from others. The speakers highlight the importance of not letting others' words affect one's self-esteem and the value of moving on from confrontations.
  6. The speakers reflect on their experiences working in security and the challenges they faced, including dealing with violent situations. They discuss the risks involved in such jobs and the potential legal consequences of physical altercations.
  7. The conversation ends with a nostalgic look back at the cultural impact of comedians like Sam Kinison during the 1980s, particularly his performances at large venues and his influence on the comedy scene.

Comedy legends' rise and fall

  1. The conversation discusses the impact of legendary comedians like Sam Kinison and Chris Rock on the comedy scene. Kinison was known for his outrageous style and preacher-like delivery, which changed the landscape of comedy. However, his career declined due to substance abuse and a lack of new material.
  2. Kinison's early performances were electric, drawing in rock stars and celebrities to his shows. His decline was marked by heavy drinking and drug use, which affected his performances and material quality. His brother's book, 'Brother Sam,' details this decline and is recommended for stand-up comedy fans.
  3. Chris Rock is highlighted as another influential comedian, known for his specials 'Bring the Pain' and 'Bigger and Blacker.' His ability to engage audiences with raw premises and develop them into polished acts is praised. Rock's recent experiences, including the infamous Oscar slap incident, are discussed as pivotal moments in his career.
  4. The conversation reflects on the nature of fame and the pressures faced by comedians. It highlights how personal challenges and public incidents can overshadow a comedian's body of work, as seen with both Kinison and Rock.
  5. The discussion also touches on the evolution of comedy clubs like The Comedy Store, which went through different eras influenced by comedians like Kinison. The club's atmosphere and audience dynamics changed significantly after Kinison's era ended.
  6. The conversation emphasizes the importance of continuous writing and performing for comedians to maintain their edge. It notes how Rock's dedication to refining his material, even after achieving fame, serves as an inspiration to other comedians.

Adam Sandler's unexpected rise in comedy

  1. The conversation begins with a discussion about the challenges and feelings of vulnerability comedians face when performing new material. The speakers express the discomfort of being seen during a 'workout set,' where the material is still being refined.
  2. The dialogue shifts to the impact of legendary performers like Chris Rock and Jimi Hendrix on their peers. The speakers note how witnessing such talent can be both inspiring and intimidating, elevating the performance of those around them.
  3. Phil Hartman's early career is highlighted, including his job at the Whisky a Go Go and his proximity to Jimi Hendrix. Hartman's diverse talents, including his work as an artist and his dedication to his craft, are discussed.
  4. The conversation touches on the experience of working with Phil Hartman on 'NewsRadio.' Hartman's professionalism and multifaceted skills, such as studying for a pilot's license, are admired by his peers.
  5. The speaker recounts their own unexpected journey into acting, starting with a development deal from MTV and leading to roles in sitcoms like 'NewsRadio.' The speaker describes feeling like an impostor among seasoned actors.
  6. The speaker shares anecdotes about the casting process and the challenges of breaking into the industry, including the feeling of not being ready or accepted during auditions.
  7. The discussion includes reflections on the nature of confidence in youth, particularly in the context of performing and auditioning. The speaker recalls the naive confidence of thinking they could outperform others without realizing the skill involved.
  8. The speaker describes their role on 'NewsRadio' as a version of themselves, incorporating personal interests like conspiracy theories into the character. This personalization helped them connect with the role and the audience.
  9. The conversation concludes with a story about how the speaker's interest in conspiracy theories began, sparked by a book about the Kennedy assassination given to them by a friend. This interest influenced their comedic material.

Emotional state impacts performance

  1. The speaker discusses how reading certain books can affect one's mental state, particularly before performing on stage. They mention reading 'The Strange Death of Vince Foster,' which led to a conspiracy spiral and affected their mood.
  2. The speaker shares experiences of being influenced by dark and disturbing content, such as books about murderers, which impacted their performance negatively. They recount a specific instance where reading about a mob serial killer, Roy DeMeo, left them unsettled.
  3. They describe a situation where watching a documentary about the Malibu fires before a performance led to an emotional breakdown on stage, contrasting with a fellow comedian, JB Smoove, who performed well because he was in a better mood.
  4. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being in the right mental state before performing, sharing how their wife helps them focus on the positive aspects of performing, such as the audience's anticipation.
  5. They discuss the benefits of touring with other comedians, highlighting how it creates a supportive and fun environment, which enhances performance. They mention taking people like Joey Diaz and Ari Shaffir on the road to ensure a good show.
  6. The speaker reflects on the early days of their career, noting how traveling with more experienced comedians helped them learn and improve, despite initially being seen as less talented.
  7. They stress the importance of having fun and being in a good mood for both personal enjoyment and professional success, preferring to earn less money if it means having a better time on tour.

Boston comedy scene's evolution and challenges

  1. The conversation begins with a discussion about the challenges comedians face in their hometowns, where they are often remembered as beginners, making it difficult to secure headlining gigs. This is exemplified by the speaker's experience in Boston, where they struggled to get major gigs despite performing at well-known venues like Stitches and Nick's Comedy Stop.
  2. The Boston comedy scene in the 1980s is described as vibrant and competitive, with legendary venues like the Ding Ho and comedians such as Lenny Clark and Don Gavin, who were known for their polished acts. These comedians had honed their performances over many years, making them formidable on stage.
  3. A documentary titled 'When Standup Stood Out' is mentioned, highlighting the transition of Boston comedians from local fame to broader recognition, particularly after Steven Wright's success on national television. This shift created a scramble among local comedians to adapt their acts for wider audiences.
  4. The conversation touches on the financial and lifestyle aspects of being a comedian in Boston during its heyday, including being paid in cash or even drugs, and the intense performance schedules that allowed comedians to perform multiple sets a night across different venues.
  5. The speaker reflects on their own journey, starting as an open mic performer and eventually gaining fame, including a stint on 'Saturday Night Live' (SNL). They discuss the challenges of being recognized by peers who initially saw them as inexperienced, and the eventual respect earned through growth and success.
  6. The speaker shares personal anecdotes about their aspirations to become a movie star and their unexpected path to SNL, facilitated by connections and an audition that showcased their comedic talent. They express initial uncertainty about joining SNL due to their lack of writing experience.
  7. The experience of being part of a successful SNL cast is described as akin to being in a rock band, with a strong sense of camaraderie and confidence among the cast members. This period is remembered fondly, despite the challenges and pressures of performing on such a prominent platform.
  8. The conversation concludes with reflections on the passage of time and the changes in the comedy scene, as well as personal growth and the evolution of comedic styles and careers.

Fame overwhelms memory capacity

  1. The conversation begins with a discussion about the overwhelming nature of fame, where famous individuals often forget meeting people due to the sheer volume of interactions. This is linked to Dunbar's number, a theory suggesting humans can only maintain 150 stable relationships at a time.
  2. Joe Rogan and Adam Sandler discuss how fame leads to unusual social dynamics, where many people know the celebrity, but the celebrity cannot remember everyone. This is compared to old phones with limited contact storage, illustrating the brain's capacity limitations.
  3. Adam Sandler shares personal anecdotes about his children discovering his past work, like 'News Radio,' and how he often forgets his performances, highlighting the brain's inability to store all memories.
  4. The conversation touches on the self-critical nature of performers, where both Rogan and Sandler express discomfort in watching their old performances, indicating a lack of egocentrism and a realistic self-assessment.
  5. Sandler recounts his early career experiences, including his excitement about being on television and his first TV appearance on 'Showtime at the Apollo' at age 18, which was a significant milestone for him.
  6. He shares a humorous story about his first movie role in 'Babes Ahoy,' where he was unexpectedly cast as the star, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of early career opportunities.
  7. The discussion shifts to Sandler's role in 'Shakes the Clown,' a film by Bobcat Goldthwait, which, despite not being a massive hit, was a unique and creative project that Sandler fondly remembers.
  8. Rogan and Sandler reminisce about Bobcat Goldthwait's directorial work, including his involvement in the early episodes of 'Chappelle's Show,' highlighting Goldthwait's transition from a unique comedic persona to a respected director.
  9. The conversation concludes with reflections on the challenges comedians face when evolving beyond their established personas, using examples like Bobcat Goldthwait and Emo Philips, and the difficulty of maintaining such characters over time.

Preparation is key for successful stand-up

  1. Adam Sandler discusses the importance of being comfortable on stage, emphasizing the need to be in the zone and fully focused on the subject matter to engage the audience effectively.
  2. He describes stand-up comedy as a form of hypnosis, where the performer locks the audience into their way of thinking, creating a shared experience.
  3. Sandler shares his preparation process, which includes writing out bits, listening to recordings, and watching videos to ensure he is fully dialed in for his performances.
  4. He reflects on the challenges of returning to stand-up after a long break, noting the awkwardness and need to relearn material after time off.
  5. Sandler talks about the experience of performing live, highlighting the pressure and the need for thorough preparation to deliver a successful show.
  6. He mentions his recent special, which was recorded in a small theater to create an intimate atmosphere, allowing the audience to feel more connected to the performance.
  7. The special was directed by Josh Safdie and aimed to capture the essence of a live show, including moments before, during, and after the performance.
  8. Sandler expresses gratitude for the opportunity to perform and the support from his audience, acknowledging the effort they make to attend his shows.