Podcast Summary: We Might Be Drunk – Episode 231: Big Jay Oakerson
Hosts: Sam Morril and Mark Normand
Guest: Big Jay Oakerson
Release Date: May 12, 2025
Produced by: Gotham Production Studios, LLC
1. Introduction and Social Media Interactions
The episode kicks off with Mark Normand and Joe List discussing the nuances of social media interactions, particularly the passive-aggressive nature of the "thumbs up" emoji. Mark shares a personal anecdote about receiving a seemingly supportive thumbs-up from a fellow comedian, which left him feeling crushed due to its insincere undertone.
Mark Normand [00:24]: "He gave me one of the big yellow ones. But comics can't take a compl."
The conversation highlights the challenges comedians face in interpreting digital communications, especially when genuine praise is masked by ambiguity.
2. Texting and Age-Related Communication Styles
Joe List and Mark Normand delve into the complexities of texting, especially with older individuals. They humorously note that men over 50 tend to prefer brief, in-and-out text conversations, contrasting with the more extended exchanges younger people engage in.
Mark Normand [01:25]: "Over 50, they don't like texting all day. Like, we can go back and forth all night, but over 50-year-old guys are like in and out on text."
This segment underscores generational differences in digital communication preferences, adding a relatable layer for listeners across age groups.
3. Anecdotes from the Road with Big Jay Oakerson
Big Jay Oakerson joins the conversation, bringing in his wealth of experiences from the comedy circuit. He narrates a story from a bar where his offhand remarks about disabilities led to an unexpected, humorous interaction with a woman who works with special needs kids. The candid storytelling adds authenticity and humor to the episode.
Joe List [02:05]: "I was hammered after the Knicks loss and messed up with some comments. But she started laughing. I broke her down."
Big Jay further shares his experiences with audience interactions, highlighting the unpredictable nature of live comedy performances.
4. Navigating the Comedy Club Scene
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to navigating the tumultuous environment of comedy clubs. The trio discusses the challenges of maintaining professionalism while dealing with disruptive audience members and difficult club managers. Big Jay recounts incidents at the infamous Comic Strip club in New York, detailing confrontations and the emotional toll of such environments.
Big Jay Oakerson [25:00]: "You go to Brian Regan and you get punched by a hooker that is not on your bingo card. Only in New York."
The stories illustrate the often chaotic and unregulated nature of live comedy venues, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability required by comedians.
5. The Struggles with Club Managers and Security
Mark Normand and Big Jay Oakerson share stories about problematic club managers like Wayne Raider, who oscillate between being charming and abusive. These anecdotes shed light on the power dynamics within comedy clubs and the precarious position comedians hold.
Big Jay Oakerson [45:41]: "Wayne was great at, like, buttering up the comics in the good times... then he whipped back at you pretty hard."
The discussion highlights the necessity for comedians to navigate these relationships carefully to sustain their careers while maintaining personal boundaries.
6. The Evolution of Comedy and Audience Expectations
The conversation shifts to the broader evolution of comedy, touching upon how modern comedians must balance authenticity with audience expectations. They discuss the rise of digital platforms like YouTube and Netflix, and how these have changed the landscape of stand-up comedy.
Mark Normand [70:22]: "They're giving them out now. Your grandma has one."
This segment reflects on the commercialization and accessibility of comedy, contrasting it with the more intimate and uncontrolled settings of traditional clubs.
7. Big Jay's Personal Performances and Challenges
Big Jay Oakerson offers a candid look into his own performances, recounting specific shows where he had to intervene during on-stage conflicts. These personal stories provide listeners with an insider's perspective on the pressures of live performances and the physical and emotional demands placed on comedians.
Big Jay Oakerson [66:25]: "I grabbed Steve, which, by the way, a lesson learned that I'll never do again."
His reflections underscore the unpredictable and sometimes perilous nature of performing live, adding depth to the episode's exploration of the comedy world.
8. Closing Remarks and Future Shows
As the episode nears its end, the hosts and Big Jay discuss upcoming shows, tours, and the expanding reach of their podcast. They also touch upon the impact of social media drama on their professional relationships, particularly referencing interactions with other podcasters and comedians.
Mark Normand [75:32]: "We might be drunk is brought to you by Shopify."
Although advertisements and outro segments are generally skipped, notable mentions related to their touring schedule and future content give listeners a glimpse into what's next for the hosts and their guests.
Notable Quotes:
- Mark Normand [00:24]: "He gave me one of the big yellow ones. But comics can't take a compl."
- Big Jay Oakerson [25:00]: "You go to Brian Regan and you get punched by a hooker that is not on your bingo card. Only in New York."
- Big Jay Oakerson [45:41]: "Wayne was great at, like, buttering up the comics in the good times... then he whipped back at you pretty hard."
- Big Jay Oakerson [66:25]: "I grabbed Steve, which, by the way, a lesson learned that I'll never do again."
Conclusion:
Episode 231 of "We Might Be Drunk" offers an unfiltered look into the lives of comedians navigating the volatile world of stand-up. Through engaging storytelling and candid discussions, hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand, along with guest Big Jay Oakerson, provide listeners with a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and triumphs inherent in the comedy industry. From handling digital communication mishaps to managing on-stage conflicts, this episode captures the essence of what it means to be a professional comedian in today's ever-evolving entertainment landscape.