Podcast Summary: We Might Be Drunk – Episode 216: Blake Griffin

Introduction

In Episode 216 of We Might Be Drunk, hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand welcome a dynamic trio of guests: Joe List, comedian Nikki Glaser, and NBA star Blake Griffin. Released on January 27, 2025, this episode, produced by Gotham Production Studios, LLC, offers a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful discussions on comedy, sports, and entertainment.

1. Morning Routines and Personal Updates

The episode opens with the hosts and Joe List engaging in light-hearted banter about their morning routines. Joe mentions trying something new by adding whole milk to his coffee, prompting a humorous exchange with Mark:

• Joe List [00:13]: "Mixed it up. Went whole milk in the coffee today."
• Mark Normand [00:16]: "Ah."
• Joe List [00:27]: "She's pregnant. That's mixing it up a little."

Mark jokes about not getting married, only for Joe to reveal that his fiancée is pregnant, adding a personal touch to the conversation.

2. The Demands of Stand-Up Comedy

The conversation shifts to the challenges of stand-up comedy, highlighting the rigorous schedules comedians often endure. They discuss JP's intense performance routine:

• Mark Normand [02:25]: "You gotta run it."
• Joe List [02:45]: "The infamous jelly roll bomb."

Mark emphasizes the necessity of persistence in comedy, comparing it to continuous effort:

• Mark Normand [02:30]: "You gotta run it. If I learned anything from that Jelly roll bomb, you gotta run it."

The hosts and guests share strategies for maintaining energy and creativity during demanding performances.

3. Media Appearances and Performance Risks

Nikki Glaser's performance at the Globes becomes a focal point, showcasing her willingness to take creative risks. They commend her voice impersonations and bold choices:

• Nikki Glaser [10:58]: "She's grown as a comedian."
• Mark Normand [03:17]: "Just because you kill in one area doesn't mean you're the right fit for this."

Mark praises Nikki's ability to diversify her act, noting her successful risks:

• Mark Normand [03:17]: "It worked because it wasn't killing."

4. Wrestling and Entertainment Industry Insights

Blake Griffin introduces a discussion on the wrestling industry, touching upon the physical demands and the prevalence of performance-enhancing substances:

• Mark Normand [13:09]: "The health care bills are crazy."
• Joe List [13:49]: "They're all addicted to opioids and steroids."

The conversation explores the parallels between wrestling and other entertainment forms, highlighting the sacrifices performers make to maintain their craft.

5. TV Shows, Movies, and Cultural Commentary

The hosts and guests delve into discussions about popular TV shows like Squid Game and its societal implications:

• Mark Normand [15:18]: "It's about capitalism and society and greed."
• Joe List [16:09]: "But it's such a big production with these sets and the killing and the violence."

They analyze the symbolism behind the show's use of childhood games as killing mechanisms, reflecting on broader societal critiques.

6. Personal Anecdotes and Emotional Insights

Nikki Glaser shares a poignant story about the emotional toll of external controversies on athletes and teams:

• Nikki Glaser [69:10]: "It was an emotional drain. So we were playing Golden State... we just went the whole season to get to this point."

Blake Griffin adds perspective from his experiences in the NBA, discussing the balance between personal well-being and professional expectations.

7. Social Issues and Code-Switching

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing social dynamics, particularly code-switching and racial identity:

• Mark Normand [66:36]: "The term now, what the kids are saying is code switching."
• Nikki Glaser [66:50]: "Yeah, I definitely... I'm doing Mellow's podcast right after that."

They explore the complexities of navigating different social environments and the pressures to adapt one's persona accordingly.

8. Comedy Writing and Creativity

The trio discusses the nuances of comedy writing, emphasizing the importance of authentic and evolving material:

• Nikki Glaser [76:34]: "I have this notes folder that I've had since probably 2000."
• Mark Normand [78:12]: "My idea for an abortion clinic name. Don't kid yourself."

They share insights into their creative processes, including how personal experiences and societal trends influence their humor.

9. Sports Commentary and Team Dynamics

Joe List and Nikki Glaser provide in-depth analysis of the New York Knicks' performance, discussing player dynamics and team strategies:

• Nikki Glaser [72:55]: "We had bad... but we had one of my all-time favorite teams."
• Joe List [74:08]: "We'll figure it out. We get Mitchell Robinson back."

The discussion offers an insider's view of the challenges and triumphs within professional sports teams.

10. Closing Remarks and Future Plans

As the episode concludes, the hosts and guests share their upcoming projects and tours, keeping listeners engaged with what's next:

• Joe List [90:05]: "This could go on forever. You guys get it."
• Mark Normand [89:45]: "We're moving some tickets and then the Thomas Wolf auditorium in Asheville."

They wrap up with humorous anecdotes and expressions of gratitude towards each other and their listeners.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Joe List [00:13]: "Mixed it up. Went whole milk in the coffee today."
• Mark Normand [02:25]: "You gotta run it."
• Nikki Glaser [10:58]: "She's grown as a comedian."
• Mark Normand [15:18]: "It's about capitalism and society and greed."
• Nikki Glaser [66:50]: "Yeah, I definitely... I'm doing Mellow's podcast right after that."
• Joe List [74:08]: "We'll figure it out. We get Mitchell Robinson back."

Conclusion

Episode 216 of We Might Be Drunk offers a rich tapestry of humor, personal stories, and insightful commentary on the intersections of comedy, sports, and social issues. Through candid conversations and engaging banter, hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand, alongside their guests, provide listeners with a multifaceted exploration of the challenges and triumphs inherent in their respective fields. Whether discussing the relentless demands of stand-up comedy, the complexities of professional sports, or the nuances of social identity, this episode stands out as a thoughtful and entertaining installment in the series.