Podcast Summary: "The Church of What's Happening Now: The New Testament" Episode: Josh Wolf Returns!
Release Date: August 12, 2025
Hosts: Joey Coco Diaz & Lee Syatt
Guest: Josh Wolf

Introduction

In this lively episode of "The Church of What's Happening Now: The New Testament," hosts Joey Diaz and Lee Syatt reunite with their long-time comedy friend, Josh Wolf. The trio delves deep into personal anecdotes, the evolving landscape of stand-up comedy, and their own tumultuous journeys within the entertainment industry.

The Dreaded Vacation

Joey Diaz kicks off the conversation by expressing his disdain for vacations, particularly criticizing the structure of the school year in states like Florida and Nashville. He shares his frustration with the short summer break, chronicling experiences like his abrupt return to work with a sunburn.

Notable Quote:
Joey Diaz at [01:18]: "I'd rather work the whole summer than have the summer off and then have to go back in September. Like, fuck, now I gotta go back to this job and do this shit all over again."

Lee Syatt, contrasting Joey’s viewpoint, mentions the appealing aspects of a structured school schedule but acknowledges the challenges faced by teachers.

The Comedy Hustle

The conversation shifts to the world of stand-up comedy. Joey and Josh reminisce about their early days on stage, the intensity of performing multiple sets weekly, and the discipline required to succeed. They discuss the decline in live comedy's popularity and the oversaturation of comedians in today's digital age.

Notable Quote:
Josh Wolf at [24:43]: "Our only goal, dude, was to be comedians. It wasn't to be Internet famous."

Joey emphasizes the importance of focusing on being funny rather than chasing fame, highlighting how the modern emphasis on social media has diluted the art of stand-up.

Personal Struggles and Growth

Joey opens up about his personal battles, including past addictions and the impact they've had on his relationships and career. He shares stories of his weight struggles, confrontations with friends, and the toll of maintaining a demanding comedy schedule.

Notable Quote:
Joey Diaz at [51:15]: "It's a one of my conflicts. I get up at 6:30, I drink a cup of coffee, I sit on my balcony."

Josh empathizes with Joey's experiences, discussing his own challenges in maintaining authenticity in his comedy amidst personal turmoil.

The Evolution of Comedy

Both Joey and Josh critique the current state of comedy, lamenting the lack of diversity and originality in modern acts. They nostalgically recall influential comedians like Lenny Clarke and George Carlin, noting how today's comedians often rely on social media metrics rather than honing their craft.

Notable Quote:
Joey Diaz at [27:06]: "This is my rifle. There's many like it, but this one is mine. Listen to those words. But this one is mine. This is your journey."

They advocate for a return to the fundamentals of comedy, focusing on personal storytelling and genuine humor over viral content.

Memorable Stories and Anecdotes

The episode is rich with vivid and often outrageous stories from Joey and Josh's past. From unconventional acts like blowing a whistle in restaurants and dealing with disruptive audience members, to chaotic personal relationships and wild party nights, their tales offer a raw glimpse into the highs and lows of their lives.

Notable Quote:
Joey Diaz at [82:17]: "She's dead serious. I just looked at her like, I would have let him lick my ass for 60 bucks. You know what I'm saying, Dog?"

These anecdotes not only entertain but also underscore the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the unpredictable world of comedy.

Reflections and Future Directions

As the conversation winds down, Joey and Josh reflect on their careers, the importance of discipline, and the need to adapt to changing times without losing their comedic edge. They discuss upcoming projects, including Josh's new special and Joey's plans to further refine his stand-up routines.

Notable Quote:
Lee Syatt at [95:34]: "When are you touring?"

Joey responds with enthusiasm about his upcoming gigs and the continuous evolution of his material, hinting at a resurgence of vulnerability and personal storytelling in his acts.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a blend of humor and heartfelt reflections, showcasing the enduring friendship between Joey, Josh, and Lee. Their candid discussions offer valuable insights into the challenges of maintaining authenticity in comedy and the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of their passions.

Final Quote:
Joey Diaz at [97:15]: "And I got my security guard at the."

Key Takeaways

• Work vs. Leisure: Joey Diaz challenges conventional notions of work-life balance, advocating for unwavering dedication over traditional vacations.
• Stand-Up Challenges: The trio emphasizes the increasing difficulty of making a mark in modern comedy amidst digital distractions and oversaturation.
• Personal Resilience: Both Joey and Josh highlight the importance of personal struggles in shaping their comedic styles and maintaining their authenticity.
• Evolving Comedy Scene: There's a call to return to the roots of stand-up comedy, focusing on genuine humor and personal stories rather than chasing internet fame.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Joey Diaz [01:18]: "I'd rather work the whole summer than have the summer off and then have to go back in September. Like, fuck, now I gotta go back to this job and do this shit all over again."
• Josh Wolf [24:43]: "Our only goal, dude, was to be comedians. It wasn't to be Internet famous."
• Joey Diaz [27:06]: "This is my rifle. There's many like it, but this one is mine. Listen to those words. But this one is mine. This is your journey."
• Joey Diaz [51:15]: "It's a one of my conflicts. I get up at 6:30, I drink a cup of coffee, I sit on my balcony."
• Joey Diaz [82:17]: "She's dead serious. I just looked at her like, I would have let him lick my ass for 60 bucks. You know what I'm saying, Dog?"
• Joey Diaz [97:15]: "And I got my security guard at the."

This episode offers a blend of humor, raw honesty, and insightful commentary on the state of comedy today. Joey Diaz, Lee Syatt, and Josh Wolf provide listeners with an engaging and unfiltered look into their lives, making it a must-listen for fans seeking both laughs and meaningful conversations.