Podcast Summary: We Might Be Drunk – Episode 235: Jordan Jensen
Release Date: June 9, 2025
Produced by Gotham Production Studios, LLC
In Episode 235 of We Might Be Drunk, hosts Sam Morril and Mark Normand welcome comedian Jordan Jensen to delve into the multifaceted lives of stand-up comedians balancing personal responsibilities and their craft. The episode seamlessly transitions between heartfelt discussions on parenthood, comedic perspectives on everyday annoyances, and engaging anecdotes from their guest's experiences in the comedy scene.
1. Navigating Parenthood and Comedy
Mark Normand opens the conversation by reflecting on the profound changes fatherhood has brought to his life. Transitioning from the carefree days of writing jokes and touring, Mark emphasizes the deep emotional connection with his four-month-old son.
Mark Normand [00:17]: “The road used to be just like, write jokes, get drunk, see Denver. Now it's like, my kid, I'm missing him.”
Sam Morril resonates with Mark's sentiments, sharing his own experiences of balancing fatherhood with a demanding comedy schedule. The duo discusses the challenges of maintaining a presence in their child's life despite the rigors of being on the road.
Sam Morril [01:38]: “You gotta make every moment you're back count.”
They touch upon the nuances of modern parenting, such as using FaceTime to stay connected, highlighting how technology bridges the gap between parental responsibilities and their careers.
2. The 'Peeves' Segment
A staple of each episode, the hosts dive into their list of daily annoyances, offering humorous takes on common pet peeves:
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Whole Cherry Tomatoes in Salads:
Sam Morril [08:49]: “Putting a whole cherry tomato, I guess, is a lot of tomato. It's like, this guy's living too high on the hog.”
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Shrimp with Heads Served at Restaurants:
Mark Normand [09:36]: “You’re like, wait, so now I got to pull this shit off, then put it back in. Like, what are we doing here?”
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Cold or Messy Takeout Containers:
Sam Morril [13:14]: “It honestly bugs me to open a can and then take two sips too. It's like a double peeve.”
These segments not only provide relatable humor but also showcase the hosts' ability to find comedy in the mundane aspects of daily life.
3. Guest Spotlight: Jordan Jensen
Jordan Jensen shares his journey in the comedy world, discussing the highs and lows of performing live. He recounts his initial nerve-wracking experiences and how subsequent shows became more relaxed as he became accustomed to different audiences.
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Facing Hecklers:
Jordan Jensen [25:01]: “I had to be like, there's no way you laugh like that.”
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Handling Critical Feedback:
Mark Normand [31:36]: “It's a good thing you didn't take all the hate personally.”
Jordan candidly talks about dealing with difficult audience members and the importance of maintaining composure on stage. His anecdotes about confrontations and the dynamics between performers and their audiences add depth to the conversation.
4. Relationship Dynamics and Personal Boundaries
The trio delves into the complexities of relationships, particularly within the demanding life of touring comedians. They explore themes such as:
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Balancing Personal Life with Professional Obligations:
Jordan Jensen [77:06]: “I want to be the dog. It's also, like, a bit of a form of weakness to me.”
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Navigating Advances and Maintaining Boundaries:
Jordan Jensen [43:16]: “Every time I drink, I have sex with somebody I hated.”
These discussions highlight the struggle comedians face in maintaining healthy relationships amidst a lifestyle that often prioritizes work over personal connections.
5. Touring Tales and City Insights
The conversation shifts to their experiences performing in various cities, offering humorous observations about different locales:
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Comedy Scenes in Upstate New York and Beyond:
Mark Normand [67:16]: “Well, the cold is so bad. It keeps people out.”
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Unique Cultural Observations:
Jordan Jensen [68:43]: “The Somali thing is so funny. The fact that it's all these Midwesterners that are so sweet and then like the blackest people.”
They share stories from tours, including encounters with fans, the quirks of performing in diverse environments, and the universal challenges faced by comedians on the road.
6. Mental Health and Personal Struggles
Mark Normand opens up about his experiences with trauma and how it has shaped his life and comedy.
Mark Normand [86:12]: “I had a weird childhood... break-ins and a bad home.”
Jordan Jensen discusses his battles with anorexia and the coping mechanisms he employed, such as using humor and sexual relationships to manage his weight and self-esteem.
Jordan Jensen [36:11]: “I have a problem with consumption... food, sex, love, candy. So if it's booze, I can't. But candy will not alter who I am.”
These vulnerable moments provide a deeper understanding of the personal toll that life on the road and societal expectations can have on individuals, even those who present a comedic front.
7. Upcoming Projects and Tour Dates
The episode concludes with Jordan Jensen promoting his upcoming special, tentatively titled "Take Me With You", slated for a September release on Netflix. He shares his aspirations and the hard work behind preparing for the special, while Sam and Mark encourage listeners to support his endeavors.
Jordan Jensen [81:50]: “I have my best friend and my dog waiting for me at the hotel.”
Additionally, the hosts exchange banter about future tour dates and the logistics of promoting comedy specials, emphasizing the camaraderie and support within the comedy community.
Notable Quotes
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Mark Normand [00:17]: “The road used to be just like, write jokes, get drunk, see Denver. Now it's like, my kid, I'm missing him.”
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Sam Morril [08:49]: “Putting a whole cherry tomato, I guess, is a lot of tomato. It's like, this guy's living too high on the hog.”
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Jordan Jensen [36:11]: “I have a problem with consumption... food, sex, love, candy. So if it's booze, I can't. But candy will not alter who I am.”
Conclusion
Episode 235 of We Might Be Drunk offers a rich tapestry of humor, personal reflection, and insightful discussions about the life of comedians. Through the candid conversations with Jordan Jensen, Sam Morril, and Mark Normand, listeners gain an intimate glimpse into the balancing act between personal life and the pursuit of laughter. The episode not only entertains but also invites empathy and understanding for those who navigate the challenging yet rewarding world of stand-up comedy.
For more episodes and to join Sam and Mark on their humorous journey, tune into We Might Be Drunk each week.
