Podcast Summary: The HoneyDew with Ryan Sickler – Episode Featuring Tom Papa
Title: Tom Papa - PapaDew
Release Date: November 25, 2024
Host: Ryan Sickler
Guest: Tom Papa
Description: In this heartfelt and introspective episode, comedian Tom Papa shares his personal journey, highlighting the profound impact of loss and how it has shaped his life and career. From his early upbringing in New Jersey to the tragic loss of close friends, Tom delves deep into the challenges and lessons learned along the way.
Introduction to the Episode
Ryan Sickler welcomes comedian Tom Papa to "The HoneyDew," setting the stage for a candid conversation about life's lows and the resilience required to overcome them. The episode promises a blend of humor and poignant storytelling, reflecting the show's theme of finding laughter in life's hardships.
Early Life and Family Background
Tom Papa opens up about his upbringing in Northern New Jersey, detailing his family dynamics and the strong bond between his parents.
Tom Papa: "My parents met at 16 and they're going to be 80 next year." [08:07]
He describes his father as a successful salesman in early telecommunications and his mother as a dedicated homemaker who later pursued a degree to run a small advertising agency. Tom grew up with two younger sisters in East Rutherford, near the Meadowlands.
Motorcycle Riding and Relationship with His Father
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Tom's love for motorcycles and his father's passion for riding. Their shared interest not only strengthened their bond but also became a symbol of freedom and adventure in Tom's youth.
Tom Papa: "My father still rides his motorcycle. He's got four right now." [08:57]
Ryan expresses astonishment at an 80-year-old riding motorcycles, leading Tom to humorously explain the transition of older bikers to trikes for safety.
Tom Papa: "A foot brake. It's a little bit like a car, but you're still out there." [09:43]
Their conversation highlights the generational differences in motorcycle culture and the enduring spirit of Tom's father.
Friendship and the Pain of Loss
Tom Papa shares deeply personal stories about the friends he lost at a young age, emphasizing how these tragedies influenced his perspective on life and comedy.
The Loss of Keith
Tom recounts the heartbreaking loss of his best friend Keith in a moped accident when Tom was just 14. This event was his first encounter with death, leaving a lasting impact on his understanding of loss.
Tom Papa: "It was the first real death that I had experienced." [18:06]
He describes the emotional turmoil and the immediate realization of mortality that came with Keith's passing.
The Tragic Case of Little Dave
In college, Tom befriends Little Dave, a resilient and spirited individual who met an untimely death at 21 due to a stroke. Their friendship was marked by shared battles and mutual support.
Tom Papa: "Little Dave was super, super funny. He was just his own person and really cutting." [28:48]
Tom reflects on the suddenness of Dave's death and how it mirrored the earlier loss of Keith, reinforcing the fragility of life.
Greg Giraldo: Comrade and Mentor
Tom's bond with fellow comedian Greg Giraldo is explored, highlighting their camaraderie in the early days of their comedy careers. Greg's untimely death due to substance abuse issues deeply affected Tom.
Tom Papa: "Greg was the first comedian I ever met. We just hit it off immediately." [41:19]
He shares memories of their shared passion for comedy and motorcycles, portraying Greg as both a mentor and a close friend.
Impact of Loss on Personal Life and Comedy
Tom delves into how these losses have shaped his comedic voice and personal outlook. The recurring theme of death and loss in his comedy acts serves as both a coping mechanism and a way to connect with his audience on a deeper level.
Tom Papa: "When you're 14 and that happens... you grow up that way." [19:42]
He discusses the juxtaposition of humor and tragedy, explaining how his ability to find laughter amidst sorrow has been integral to his career.
Parenting and Shifting Perspectives on Death
As a father, Tom shares how his own experiences with loss have influenced his approach to parenting. He emphasizes the delicate balance between protecting his children and allowing them to understand the realities of life.
Tom Papa: "Being a parent definitely, definitely puts it in perspective." [21:38]
The conversation touches on the fears and responsibilities that come with parenting, especially in a world where tragedies can strike unexpectedly.
Advice to His Younger Self
Towards the end of the episode, Tom offers heartfelt advice to his 16-year-old self, encouraging youthful determination and seizing opportunities without hesitation.
Tom Papa: "The advice I would give to 16-year-old me would be... You're in it now. Get to work." [56:47]
This nugget of wisdom encapsulates the essence of embracing one's passion and not waiting for validation or the "right time" to pursue dreams.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Ryan expressing gratitude for Tom's openness and the profound insights shared. Tom promotes his Netflix specials and books, subtly weaving in elements of his personal journey into his professional endeavors.
Tom Papa: "Just go watch Home Free on Netflix and then I've got two or three other specials on there as well." [58:10]
Ryan and Tom part ways with a sense of camaraderie, underscoring the episode's blend of humor, tragedy, and the enduring human spirit.
Notable Quotes:
- Tom Papa: "My parents met at 16 and they're going to be 80 next year." [08:07]
- Tom Papa: "Little Dave was super, super funny. He was just his own person and really cutting." [28:48]
- Tom Papa: "The advice I would give to 16-year-old me would be... You're in it now. Get to work." [56:47]
- Tom Papa: "Being a parent definitely, definitely puts it in perspective." [21:38]
This episode of "The HoneyDew with Ryan Sickler" offers a raw and authentic look into the life of Tom Papa, blending humor with the harsh realities of loss. For listeners seeking a balance of laughter and emotional depth, this conversation serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.