The Nateland Podcast Episode #221: NASCAR with John Crist - Detailed Summary

Release Date: October 9, 2024
Hosts: Nate Bargatze, Brian Bates, Aaron Weber, Dusty Slay

1. Vanderbilt's Stunning Victory Over Alabama

[02:35] Brian Bates:
Brian expresses his surprise and excitement over Vanderbilt's unexpected win against Alabama, highlighting the rarity and significance of the event.

"I can't believe that happened. That is the most bizarre thing that's ever happened in sports."

[03:00] Dusty Slay:
Dusty emphasizes the impact of the win, noting Vanderbilt's rise to the number one spot and their impressive performance.

"Vandy was off last week, two weeks to get ready for them. They took Missouri to the overtime."

2. Navigating NIL Deals and Sponsorships in College Sports

[10:00] Brian Bates:
Brian shares his skepticism about the current NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) system in college sports, questioning its effectiveness and fairness.

"I don't think this is the right system. It's like, because you got people, I would imagine you got people on a team making tons of money and then somebody making no money."

[10:48] Nate Bargatze:
Nate discusses potential sponsorship ideas for NCAA teams, focusing on niche sports like cross country and allowing creative collaboration.

"We're gonna get the best cross country kid. How much is he?"

3. The Complexities of Weather Forecasting and Hurricane Naming

[14:21] Brian Bates:
Brian suggests accountability for sports commentators, likening inaccurate predictions to those of weather forecasters.

"I want a prediction from you now. How's the rest of the season look?"

[17:00] Brian Bates:
Brian recounts historical hurricanes and debates the necessity and efficacy of naming storms, proposing that other natural disasters like tornadoes and earthquakes also receive names for clarity.

4. Nate Bargatze's Hosting Experience on Saturday Night Live

[27:11] Dusty Slay:
Dusty praises Nate's performance on SNL, noting his growth and the comfort he displayed during the sketches.

"I thought he did great again, to me, was better than the first one."

[28:25] Dusty Slay:
Commenting on Nate's unique wardrobe choices post-show, Dusty highlights Nate's individuality compared to other comedians.

"Like, it's Lorne Michaels in a suit. Jim Gaffigan, Dana Carver. Everyone's dressed kind of normal. And then Nate's got some stuff going on."

5. Upcoming Shows, Specials, and Podcast Network Expansion

[31:33] Dusty Slay:
Dusty shares exciting news about upcoming shows and specials within the Nateland Podcast network, including performances at various comedy clubs and events.

"Steven Rogers special at the Comedy Fort in Fort Collins, Colorado. Greg Warren, another special at the Funny Bone."

[33:17] Brian Bates:
Brian reflects on past performances and interactions with the audience, emphasizing the camaraderie and support within the comedy community.

6. Personal Stories and Comedic Anecdotes

[41:12] Brian Bates:
Brian recounts his recent comedy tour in Macon, Georgia, highlighting memorable interactions and the support from friends and family.

"It was really great, really fun. A lot of my friends and old co-workers and things all came to the show."

[49:16] Nate Bargatze:
Nate shares a humorous yet humbling experience of bombing during a comedy show by pretending to have a disability, emphasizing the importance of authentic performance.

"I was like, I don't know what to go because it was just bombing. I saw my arm, but they saw my arm."

7. Evolution and Challenges of NASCAR

[70:18] Dusty Slay:
Dusty initiates a deep discussion on the state of NASCAR, addressing the decline in live audiences and TV viewership since 2005.

"According to NASCAR attendance statistics, it's lost 50% of its live audience and TV viewership from its peak in 2005."

[75:04] Brian Bates:
Brian criticizes the increasing commercialization of NASCAR, lamenting the loss of its gritty, authentic roots in favor of corporate sponsorships and sanitized presentations.

"I think it's that way with all sports and some of these calls that they make... It's a weak call. But you've completely changed the momentum of this game."

[85:00] Nate Bargatze:
Nate draws parallels between the commercialization in NASCAR and college football, expressing concerns over sponsors' influences and the diminishing presence of relatable, charismatic drivers.

"They want to make sure what you want at the end of the game is people watching. If it's 27 to 0, that's not a good product."

[90:00] Dusty Slay:
Dusty discusses NASCAR's safety advancements post-Dale Earnhardt's tragic death, noting the significant changes implemented to prevent future incidents.

"They retired some names if it's really bad... They made so many safety changes that they haven't had a death since."

8. Audience Interaction and Social Media Feedback

[58:11] Brian Bates:
Brian reads and responds to listener comments, highlighting positive feedback and addressing humorous critiques about the hosts.

"Brian is underrated. His one-liners keep me from laughing even when the rest of you ignore him."

[68:12] Brian Bates:
Brian addresses the misconception that all comedians are extroverts, sharing his own experiences and preferences regarding audience interactions.

"I like to talk about certain things, but I feel like they're expecting a relatively, for the most part, mild show."

9. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

[119:59] Nate Bargatze:
Nate wraps up the discussion with a light-hearted exchange about upcoming tours and shows, maintaining the podcast's engaging and humorous tone.

"But just hang in there, Dustin. Hang in there."

[120:50] Brian Bates:
Brian summarizes the essence of the episode, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for future content and events.

"We all spent 10, 12 years doing that. Where you're fighting against them from the start."

Notable Quotes:

• Brian Bates [02:35]: "I can't believe that happened. That is the most bizarre thing that's ever happened in sports."

• Dusty Slay [03:00]: "Vandy was off last week, two weeks to get ready for them. They took Missouri to the overtime."

• Brian Bates [10:00]: "I don't think this is the right system."

• Dusty Slay [70:15]: "They retired some names if it's really bad."

• Brian Bates [75:04]: "I think it's that way with all sports and some of these calls that they make... It's a weak call."

• Nate Bargatze [85:00]: "They want to make sure what you want at the end of the game is people watching."

• Dusty Slay [90:00]: "They made so many safety changes that they haven't had a death since."

Conclusion

Episode #221 of The Nateland Podcast delves into a myriad of topics, centering around Vanderbilt's remarkable win in college football and transitioning into the evolving landscape of NASCAR. The hosts engage in candid conversations about the implications of commercialization in sports, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and the personal experiences of navigating the comedy scene. Through humorous anecdotes, thoughtful critiques, and insightful discussions, the episode offers listeners a comprehensive look into the intersection of sports, entertainment, and personal growth.

For those interested in the dynamic between comedy and sports or seeking an engaging discourse on NASCAR's current state, this episode provides valuable perspectives and entertaining exchanges.