The JTrain Podcast: Staten Island Sweethearts and Scumbags with Peter Revello

Release Date: August 13, 2025

In this engaging episode of The JTrain Podcast, host Jared Freed welcomes comedian Peter Revello for a lively discussion centered around Staten Island's unique culture, personal relationships, and the intricacies of the local stand-up comedy scene. The conversation seamlessly blends humor with insightful commentary, offering listeners a comprehensive look into both the borough's dynamics and the personal lives of the guests.

1. Introduction to the Episode and Guests

Jared Freed sets the stage by introducing Peter Revello, a rising star in the comedy circuit, whom he praises for his performances at the Comedy Cellar. Jared emphasizes the theme of the episode—"Staten Island Sweethearts and Scumbags"—highlighting the exploration of male friendships and the concept of male loneliness.

Jared Freed [00:00]: "Today's guest is new to the JCU, Peter Revello, hilarious comic. Go check him out. He kills. He just is so funny."

2. Staten Island Culture and Demographics

The discussion delves deep into Staten Island's cultural landscape. Peter paints a vivid picture of his upbringing in Tottenville, an area characterized by its Italian heritage and construction-centric community. He touches upon the challenges and stereotypes associated with Staten Island, including perceptions of it being the most Republican borough and its "scumbag culture."

Peter Revello [07:09]: "My dad is like. So what they call the Verrazano Bridge is. If you're, like, born in Staten Island before it was built, you call it the guinea gangplank, because as soon as that was built, then all the Italians came in, and so, like, they kind of changed the demographic."

Jared adds his observations, noting Staten Island's surprising greenery and suburban feel, contrary to common perceptions.

Jared Freed [05:45]: "I've gone and I know it's nicer than people let on. That's what I like. It's more suburban."

3. Personal Lives and Relationships

Transitioning to personal anecdotes, Peter shares his long-term relationship story. He recounts meeting his wife at a pizzeria in Tottenville, reflecting on their 15-year relationship and four years of marriage. The conversation touches on the dynamics of committing in relationships and the societal expectations surrounding marriage.

Peter Revello [17:26]: "We met at a pizzeria in Tottenville. It was an awesome place. It's like old Sicilian. Not old. He was, like, right off the boat, Sicilian guy."

Jared juxtaposes his own single status with Peter's committed relationship, exploring the challenges of forming meaningful connections later in life.

Jared Freed [22:24]: "I don't have anyone to, like, commiserate with... I can't even make a friend at 40."

4. Stand-up Comedy Scene: Staten Island vs. Manhattan

The conversation shifts to the world of stand-up comedy, contrasting the opportunities and challenges of performing in Staten Island versus the bustling comedy scene in Manhattan. Peter discusses the difficulties comedians face when staying local versus venturing into the competitive New York City market.

Peter Revello [11:46]: "Some comics get stuck here. They start doing stand up here and they just like, the best place is 35 minutes away, right?"

Jared shares his experiences of commuting for shows and the balance between personal life and professional aspirations in comedy.

Jared Freed [25:50]: "I moved to Delray Beach, Florida... When I come to New York and do spots, I'm having fun doing that too."

5. The "Scum or Yum" Game

Towards the end of the episode, Jared introduces a playful segment titled "Scum or Yum", where he poses various scenarios to Peter, who must decide if each situation is scummy or yummy. This segment adds a humorous twist to the episode, allowing both hosts to showcase their comedic chemistry.

Example Round:

• Ketchup on Pasta

  Peter Revello [29:45]: "That is scummy. It's a blight. I hate ketchup. Even take out the Italian heritage. The ketchup is an abomination."

• Taking Items from the Lost and Found

  Peter Revello [31:20]: "I'm gonna go yummy on this. It belongs to me. I'll take care of it better."

• Bringing Your Own Food to a Barbecue

  Peter Revello [32:23]: "I think that's scummy. The barbecue is not about you."

• Exploiting Restaurant Side Policies for Extra Sides

  Peter Revello [33:22]: "It's yummy. It's up. It's a good move."

These interactions not only bring laughter but also highlight the hosts' perspectives on social etiquette and personal preferences.

6. Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Jared urges listeners to follow Peter Revello on various platforms, praising his comedic talent and expressing enthusiasm for his future performances. The hosts briefly discuss upcoming shows and the potential for future collaborations, leaving the door open for more entertaining episodes ahead.

Jared Freed [34:43]: "Peter Revello, you're fantastic. Great to have you on the J train. A great first entry into the jcu."

Conclusion

This episode of The JTrain Podcast masterfully combines humor with heartfelt discussions, offering a multifaceted view of Staten Island's culture, the personal lives of those who call it home, and the ever-evolving landscape of stand-up comedy. Peter Revello's candid storytelling and comedic insights provide listeners with both laughs and meaningful reflections, making it a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Jared Freed [00:00]: Introduction to Peter Revello and the episode's theme.
• Peter Revello [07:09]: Discussing Staten Island's demographic changes post-Verrazano Bridge.
• Peter Revello [17:26]: Sharing the story of meeting his wife in Tottenville.
• Peter Revello [29:45]: Declaring "Ketchup on pasta" as scummy.
• Jared Freed [34:43]: Praising Peter and welcoming him to the J Train community.