Podcast Summary: The Wayback #47 | Craig Conant

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Wayback with Ryan Sickler
• Host: Ryan Sickler
• Guest: Craig Conant
• Release Date: November 21, 2024
• Description: Ryan Sickler and his guests take a seat in “The Wayback” for a nostalgic, wild ride filled with laughter, fond memories, and a touch of wistful reflection. Buckle up.

Introduction

In episode #47 of The Wayback, host Ryan Sickler welcomes stand-up comedian Craig Conant to share a series of wild and nostalgic stories from his youth. The conversation delves into Craig's adventurous childhood, his mischievous antics, encounters with authority, and the pivotal moments that shaped his path toward comedy and sobriety.

Childhood Adventures and Misadventures

Building Potato Cannons

The episode kicks off with a vivid recounting of Craig’s early fascination with making potato cannons, a hobby inspired by reading The Anarchist Cookbook. At [03:09], Craig explains, “Potato cannon was one of them. And I had like maybe five different [versions].” He details the construction process using PVC pipes and flammable materials, describing how he and his siblings would shoot potatoes soaked in gasoline towards the police station and neighboring houses.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Sickler [04:14]: "And now, the Wayback Presents. How to Build a Potato with Craig Conant."

Fireworks and Pranks

Craig’s love for fireworks surfaces as he nostalgically recalls lighting sparklers with his niece and nephew ([06:41]). This passion traces back to his childhood, where he was introduced to fireworks by his father at a young age. From selling firecrackers in fourth grade to engaging in elaborate bottle rocket fights, Craig’s stories paint a picture of a rebellious yet creative youngster.

Notable Quote:

Craig Conant [06:49]: "My dad gave them to me at literally kindergarten."

Running Afoul of Authority

Firecrackers and Police Encounters

Craig shares a particularly wild incident where he threw firecrackers at police officers on horseback, leading to Assault charges against both the officers and himself ([09:50]). This event not only landed him in trouble but also played a significant role in his decision to get sober. Reflecting on the consequences, Craig remarks, “Out of bad can come something good. That's my message” ([11:46]).

Notable Quote:

Ryan Sickler [10:38]: "What's a charge on a horse? It was assault on a horse."

Craig Conant [10:42]: "That's what I said."

Youth Entrepreneurship

Selling Stuffed Animals and Fireworks

Craig's entrepreneurial spirit shines through his ingenious schemes to make money as a child. During family trips to Las Vegas, he and his cousin Lisa would exploit arcade machines to "fish" out stuffed animals and manipulate coin flippers to accumulate extra change ([16:40]). Additionally, they ventured into selling Coronas and Keystone beers by donning signs and approaching construction workers, demonstrating early business acumen mixed with youthful audacity.

Notable Quote:

Craig Conant [17:16]: "And they would still put gum on the end of the coat hanger and pull out all the change from the bottom."

Substance Use in Adolescence

Early Alcohol Consumption

Craig candidly discusses his early introduction to alcohol, beginning at age 14. He recounts a harrowing experience of consuming 14 beers and waking up in a puddle of vomit, a moment that underscored the dangers of substance abuse ([29:03]). This episode not only highlights the recklessness of his youth but also sets the stage for his eventual sobriety.

Notable Quote:

Craig Conant [29:03]: "I'm a 14 year old. ... I woke up in a puddle of vomit, face down."

Experimentation with Drugs

The conversation touches upon Craig’s experimentation with psychedelics during high school, including a vivid story of a friend having a severe bad trip at the Rose Bowl ([26:48]). These experiences contributed to his understanding of the perils of substance use and reinforced his commitment to sobriety.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Sickler [27:21]: "I'm punching him in the face."

Craig Conant [27:26]: "I don't think that's happened."

High School Experiences

Wild Parties and Pranks

High school years were marked by continued antics, including wild bottle rocket fights and elaborate pranks designed to scare others. Craig describes intense moments where fireworks unpredictably threatened safety, reflecting both the thrill and danger of his actions ([20:11]).

Notable Quote:

Ryan Sickler [20:26]: "Oh yeah. Bottle rockets were a little scary because you always hear the story of some kid in their eye."

Joyriding and Car Crashes

At 15, Craig took his youthful rebellion further by joyriding in his mother’s car, a lemon, and causing intentional crashes into trash cans ([14:06]). Despite the risks, he managed to evade serious consequences, highlighting the era's leniency and his own cunning.

Notable Quote:

Craig Conant [14:25]: "My dad sold me my first car, and it was a lemon."

Transition to Comedy and Lessons Learned

From Rebellion to Stand-Up

Craig’s tumultuous youth eventually paved the way for his career in comedy. The series of misadventures, legal troubles, and substance abuse experiences culminated in a turning point where Craig sought solace and purpose in stand-up. His ability to transform chaotic memories into humor underscores his resilience and reflective nature.

Sobriety and Personal Growth

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around how overcoming substance abuse was integral to Craig’s personal and professional growth. He emphasizes that even from his most challenging moments, there was potential for positive change, a message that resonates throughout the episode.

Notable Quote:

Craig Conant [11:46]: "Out of bad can come something good. That's my message."

Conclusion

Ryan Sickler and Craig Conant wrap up the episode with mutual appreciation and final anecdotes, reinforcing the theme that even the wildest and most reckless youth can lead to meaningful personal transformation. Craig promotes his comedy tour, inviting listeners to experience his unique blend of humor shaped by his extraordinary life stories.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Sickler [30:19]: "Shout out to your moms, dude."

The episode concludes on a heartfelt note, celebrating the enduring bond between parent and child, and the unconditional support that helped Craig navigate his tumultuous past.

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience Through Adversity: Craig’s ability to turn his chaotic childhood and rebellious acts into successful comedic material underscores the power of resilience.
• Impact of Early Experiences: Early exposure to risk-taking behaviors and substance use had profound effects on Craig’s development and career trajectory.
• Humor as Healing: The use of humor to reflect on past mistakes and hardships serves as a therapeutic mechanism for Craig, allowing him to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Recommended for: Listeners who enjoy candid, humorous, and reflective discussions about overcoming challenges and finding success through unconventional paths.

This summary captures the essence of episode #47 of The Wayback with Ryan Sickler and guest Craig Conant, providing an engaging overview of their conversation filled with nostalgic anecdotes, humorous reflections, and insightful lessons.