Summary of "Joey Diaz is Going Through Changes" Episode of The Church of What's Happening Now: The New Testament
In this episode, released on July 29, 2025, Joey Diaz and his co-host Lee Syatt engage in a candid and humorous conversation filled with personal anecdotes, reflections on aging, community ties, and musings on music and modern societal norms. The dialogue is peppered with Joey's trademark humor and unfiltered observations, making for an engaging listen for both regular listeners and newcomers.
1. Nostalgia Over Birthdays and Carvel Cakes
The episode kicks off with Joey reminiscing about his nephew's birthday and the traditional Carvel cake, a staple in their celebrations. He shares his disdain for the stale quality of Carvel cakes outside of New Jersey and New York, stating:
"If you don't live in Jersey or New York, you're eating that shit that's 22 days old." [01:05]
Joey contrasts this with his time in California, where he struggled with the lack of authentic Carvel experiences, emphasizing the deep-rooted nostalgia he feels for these local traditions.
2. Discontent with Rudy's and Community Authenticity
Joey and Lee delve into their shared experiences at Rudy's, a beloved local restaurant, where Joey expresses his frustration over the introduction of country music in a region he feels doesn't align with the community's cultural roots. Joey passionately asserts:
"As a human being, you have to stand for something. You have to stand for something." [05:14]
He criticizes the lack of authenticity and community connection, lamenting the shift away from the traditional ambiance that Rudy's once embodied. This segment underscores Joey's emphasis on preserving the cultural integrity of local establishments.
3. Personal Changes and Setting Boundaries
Transitioning from external observations to personal reflections, Joey openly discusses the changes he's undergoing in his life. He admits to feeling "sick and tired" and acknowledges the need to set boundaries with friends and acquaintances who attempt to involve him in their ventures:
"I've been going through some changes lately. I have to call a dear friend of mine tomorrow and apologize for my behavior." [09:51]
Joey emphasizes the importance of personal well-being over external pressures, highlighting his focus on family and personal priorities.
4. Navigating Social Media and Unwanted Communications
Joey shares his struggles with managing social media interactions, particularly unsolicited messages from friends in distress. He expresses frustration with the intrusive nature of platforms like Facebook, stating:
"Every time I open Facebook, I don't know what I'm gonna get. It's always fucking." [35:18]
His candid take sheds light on the challenges of maintaining personal boundaries in the digital age, emphasizing the need to prioritize mental health over incessant connectivity.
5. Humorous Take on Daily Routines and Household Chores
In a lighthearted segment, Joey humorously critiques modern conveniences like dishwashers, advocating for traditional hand-washing methods. He shares vivid descriptions of household mishaps and his disdain for what he perceives as "white people shit" in domestic settings:
"I don't believe in dishwashers. No? No. Then why have I make a protein shake for three days?" [41:23]
This playful rant not only provides comedic relief but also offers insight into Joey's preference for simplicity and hands-on approaches in daily chores.
6. Reflections on Music and Personal Impact
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Joey's deep reflections on the influence of music in his life, particularly focusing on Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath. He recounts personal memories associated with music that helped him navigate tough times:
"Tomorrow's Dream was for me to wake up the next morning. And I would listen to it every night before I went to bed." [65:31]
Joey shares how music served as a lifeline during challenging periods, illustrating the profound emotional connections individuals can have with their favorite bands and artists.
7. Contrasting Classic and Modern Music Trends
Joey and Lee compare the authenticity of classic rock bands like Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne to contemporary artists such as Billie Eilish and Madonna. Joey criticizes modern performances that rely on lip-syncing and lack the raw energy he associates with older acts:
"It's just a chips. Fucking lip syncing, it's no big deal." [73:34]
This discussion highlights Joey's appreciation for the genuine artistry of past musicians and his skepticism towards the manufactured aspects of today's music industry.
8. Personal Anecdotes and Storytelling
Throughout the episode, Joey peppers the conversation with personal stories, including his experiences at concerts, interactions with friends, and humorous takes on everyday situations. His storytelling style, combined with Lee's reactions, creates a dynamic and entertaining dialogue that keeps listeners engaged.
Conclusion
In "Joey Diaz is Going Through Changes," Joey and Lee offer a blend of humor, personal insights, and candid reflections on various aspects of life. From nostalgic reminisces about local traditions and music to discussions on personal growth and societal observations, the episode encapsulates the essence of Joey Diaz's relatable and unfiltered conversational style. Listeners are treated to an authentic glimpse into Joey's world, marked by laughter, introspection, and a steadfast commitment to authenticity.