Podcast Summary: The HoneyDew with Ryan Sickler - Episode 332: Craig Shoemaker: What Comes Around, Cults Around

Release Date: May 5, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 332 of The HoneyDew with Ryan Sickler, host Ryan Sickler welcomes comedian Craig Shoemaker for an in-depth conversation about Craig's tumultuous upbringing, experiences with cults, personal struggles, and his journey in the world of comedy. The episode delves into the challenges Craig faced growing up without a stable father figure, his encounters with manipulative individuals, and how he transformed his pain into laughter and mentorship.

Early Life and Relationship with Father

Craig Shoemaker opens up about his strained relationship with his father, Warren, who left when Craig was young. Ryan Sickler describes their early connection as ships crossing paths without anchoring deeply.

• Craig Shoemaker [01:52]: "I'm really excited to be with you. I mean we go back a long way without going back a long way."

Craig recounts the manipulative ways his father tried to bond with him, often using Craig for his entrepreneurial schemes.

• Craig Shoemaker [13:00]: "He was always coming up with a new multi-level marketing thing, but he sold vitamins. The worst was converting cesspools to sewers."

Craig describes being forced into labor by his narcissistic father, who saw him more as a tool than a son.

• Craig Shoemaker [13:43]: "He put me under there like someone in Shawshank Redemption. All they found was prison clothes, soap, and a little rock."

Influence and Manipulation by Father

Craig delves deeper into the toxic dynamics with his father, highlighting how his father's constant schemes and lack of genuine affection left a lasting impact.

• Craig Shoemaker [16:28]: "He creates a horse business, then it became mules in the 70s. He was always bartering and trading, making deals without knowing how to walk away."

Craig explains how his father established a hierarchical system among his children, fostering competition and control.

• Craig Shoemaker [16:55]: "He would rate us based on how we worked that day. Rob was always number one. I was never number one."

Encounters with Cults and Manipulative Individuals

The conversation shifts to Craig's encounters with cult-like behavior, both from his father and other manipulative figures. Craig shares his experiences of being exploited and controlled.

• Craig Shoemaker [28:04]: "He would turn people against one another. He would make them compete for his affection and approval."

Craig draws parallels between his father's behavior and notorious cult leaders, emphasizing the psychological manipulation involved.

• Craig Shoemaker [28:07]: "They appeal to something that's missing in your heart. That's what happened with Manson."

Personal Struggles and Path to Recovery

Craig opens up about his personal struggles, including substance abuse and legal issues, stemming from his troubled upbringing and attempts to cope with his pain.

• Craig Shoemaker [66:15]: "I spent my life not being protected. That's it. That's what I'm there for my kids."

He discusses his journey toward healing through comedy, mentorship, and spirituality, highlighting the transformative power of laughter.

• Craig Shoemaker [70:01]: "I found comedy. I found spirituality. I'm now concentrating on bringing laughter to companies through corporate wellness."

Comedy Career and Challenges

Craig shares insights into his comedy career, including significant milestones and setbacks. He recounts his brief stint as a co-host on Magic Johnson's show, illustrating the challenges he faced in the entertainment industry.

• Craig Shoemaker [72:45]: "I thought it was gonna be like Dynasty or something. But it was the opposite. People were screaming and drugs on the streets."

Craig describes how his experiences, both positive and negative, shaped his approach to comedy and his commitment to helping others through laughter.

• Craig Shoemaker [83:05]: "Laughter is the best medicine. Surround yourself with laughter."

Current Work and Mentorship

Currently, Craig focuses on mentorship, coaching individuals and corporations to harness the power of humor for personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the importance of being genuine and serving others through laughter.

• Craig Shoemaker [81:42]: "Be of service to the audience. Be yourself and don't respond to people trying to tell you what to do."

Craig highlights his initiatives, such as the Laughter Heals Foundation, aimed at using comedy as a therapeutic tool.

• Craig Shoemaker [82:24]: "I help people find their voice. It's about connecting with who you truly are."

Notable Quotes

• Craig Shoemaker [03:00]: "It's organic, but this is organic."

• Craig Shoemaker [05:37]: "Laughter really does have a lot. You know how long comedians live unless they get in drugs and alcohol."

• Craig Shoemaker [28:04]: "He would turn people against one another. That's another thing you say, mother, daughter."

• Craig Shoemaker [71:50]: "We are potent as humans. We have a potency that wishes to be released as a potency of love, light, and laughter."

Conclusion

Episode 332 offers a profound look into Craig Shoemaker's life, illustrating how he has navigated through adversity, manipulative relationships, and personal struggles to emerge as a mentor and advocate for using comedy as a healing tool. Ryan Sickler's compassionate hosting allows Craig to share his transformative journey, emphasizing resilience, the importance of genuine connections, and the healing power of laughter.

Additional Information

• Craig Shoemaker's Website: craigshoemaker.com
• Merchandise and Book: Craig promotes his merchandise and his book "Laugh Formations: A 40-Day Cleanse," emphasizing the need for laughter in today's world.
• Laughter Heals Foundation: A nonprofit dedicated to using comedy for healing, inspired by Craig's late friend who battled brain cancer.

This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and narratives shared in the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to it.