DOPE AS USUAL Podcast - Episode: "The Funniest Foo in LA with DOKNOW"

Release Date: December 18, 2024

Hosts: Dope as Yola
Special Guest: Duno
Guest Appearance: Marty

1. Introduction and Family Commitments

The episode kicks off with a lighthearted discussion between Yola and Duno about attending children's performances and family obligations. Yola mentions traveling five hours to attend her nieces' and nephews' graduations but finds it challenging to attend regular performances due to her busy schedule.

Notable Quote:
Duno [00:36]: "I'm miss the kids stupid ass Christmas song that they don't know."

2. Childhood Experiences and Cultural Observations

Yola and Duno delve into their childhood experiences, highlighting the racial dynamics they faced in school. Duno recounts instances of racial bullying, especially towards his Asian classmates, and reflects on the lack of cultural education among his peers.

Notable Quote:
Duno [05:01]: "That's messed up. But yeah, that was the first time I was ever racist towards an Asian person."

3. Health Challenges

Yola opens up about her ongoing battle with back issues, discussing treatments like chiropractic care and acupuncture. Duno shares his struggles with sciatica, emphasizing the importance of consistency in treatment.

Notable Quote:
Yola [23:38]: "I think it's that including like all the weightlifting I used to do..."

4. Transition into Comedy and Stand-Up Journey

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Duno's journey into stand-up comedy. He shares his initial struggles, including bombing during his first shows, and how he overcame them by honing his craft and performing consistently. Yola provides encouragement, highlighting Duno's growth and resilience.

Notable Quote:
Duno [26:06]: "I've been grinding this, you know? And then Ralph Barbosa, he did like a special pop-up at the Comedy Store. Sold out two nights. And I asked him like, hey, can I..."

5. Favorite Comedians and Influences

The conversation shifts to discussing favorite comedians and influential shows. Yola praises iconic shows like South Park and comedians like Bobby Lee, emphasizing their impact on her appreciation for comedy.

Notable Quote:
Yola [111:07]: "I've been watching Bobby Lee since he was on the Mexican Comedy Network."

6. Vlogging vs. Stand-Up Comedy

Yola and Duno explore the challenges of balancing vlogging with stand-up comedy. They discuss the burnout that can come from trying to juggle both, with Yola expressing a preference for focusing solely on comedy to maintain authenticity.

Notable Quote:
Yola [118:00]: "You do. And this full. Just the crowd up."

7. Drug Discussions and Personal Stories

A candid segment unfolds where Yola and Duno discuss their experiences with various substances, including cannabis, cocaine, and shrooms. They share personal anecdotes about past misuse, the impact on their lives, and their current perspectives on drug use.

Notable Quote:
Duno [74:18]: "You know what I'm saying? Like if you're gonna do cocaine, I wanted to be cocaine. Like when I was a kid."

8. Family Dynamics and Personal Reflections

Yola shares deep insights into her strained relationship with her father, who struggled with addiction. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her humor and resilience. Duno reciprocates by talking about his own challenging family background, emphasizing the role of humor as a coping mechanism.

Notable Quote:
Yola [138:51]: "I just started tweaking, dude. Once you start tweaking and as somebody that's been around drugs their whole life, that's just not appealing."

9. Upcoming Shows, Tours, and Projects

Duno excitedly discusses his upcoming comedy tours, including shows in Fresno, Portland, and a significant performance in New York slated for 2025. He also hints at new projects, including a role in an independent film set to release next year.

Notable Quote:
Duno [148:29]: "New York is the goal of 2025. And then I have a couple movies coming out."

10. Closing Remarks and Future Aspirations

The episode concludes with Yola and Duno expressing mutual support for each other's endeavors. They discuss the importance of community and the desire to continue growing their comedy careers while maintaining authenticity and connection with their audience.

Notable Quote:
Yola [152:18]: "And have fun, because that first one was so fun."

Key Takeaways and Insights

• Resilience in Comedy: Duno's journey underscores the importance of perseverance in the face of initial failures, highlighting how consistent effort and dedication can lead to meaningful growth and success in stand-up comedy.

• Cultural Awareness: The episode sheds light on the subtle and overt racial dynamics in educational settings, emphasizing the need for better cultural education and understanding among young individuals.

• Health and Well-being: Both Yola and Duno openly discuss their physical health challenges, advocating for consistent treatment and exploring alternative therapies like acupuncture.

• Impact of Family on Personal Growth: Personal stories about dysfunctional family relationships reveal how early life experiences can shape one's sense of humor and coping mechanisms.

• Balancing Multiple Roles: The tension between vlogging and stand-up comedy illustrates the challenges of managing multiple creative outlets without compromising on quality or personal well-being.

• Substance Use and Recovery: Honest discussions about past substance misuse provide a raw look into the struggles and eventual steps towards healthier lifestyles.

Final Thoughts

This episode of "DOPE AS USUAL" offers a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and deep reflections, making it both entertaining and insightful. Yola and Duno's candid conversations provide listeners with a genuine look into their lives, fostering a strong connection with their audience.

For those interested in their burgeoning comedy careers and personal growth journeys, this episode serves as an inspiring narrative of overcoming challenges and pursuing one's passion with unwavering dedication.

Note: Any sponsorship segments interspersed within the conversation have been intentionally omitted to maintain focus on the core content, as per the provided instructions.