WTF with Marc Maron Podcast: Episode 1595 - Steve Fury

Release Date: November 28, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 1595 of the WTF with Marc Maron Podcast, host Marc Maron sits down with comedian Steve Fury for an in-depth and candid conversation. Known for his sharp wit and engaging storytelling, Steve Fury opens up about his tumultuous past, his journey into the world of stand-up comedy, and the profound personal experiences that have shaped his life and career.

Early Life and Family Dynamics

Steve Fury begins by sharing heartfelt reflections on his relationship with his father, an orthopedic surgeon dealing with dementia. He discusses the challenges of caring for an aging parent and the surprising parallels in their interactions:

"I feel like I have the same approach to him that he had to me in my life... It's a very practical approach. It's not very emotionally loaded." (16:25)

This detachment, rooted in years of tough love, surfaces as Steve grapples with his father's declining memory and independence. Despite the difficulties, he emphasizes the importance of empathy and maintaining love within strained familial relationships.

A Foray into Drug Dealing

Before his comedy career took off, Steve had a dark period where he was deeply involved in drug dealing. He recounts his experiences navigating the risky landscape of Tijuana, Mexico, where he sold Norcos and other substances. One particularly harrowing incident involved a dangerous encounter that left him fearing for his life:

"I go into the alley... I'm here, might as well dance. We get to this door... and he goes, give me your money." (36:34)

These stories illuminate the high-stakes environment Steve operated in and the thin line he walked between survival and peril. The culmination of these experiences led him to reassess his path and pivot towards comedy as a means of escaping the life he previously led.

Transition to Stand-Up Comedy

Steve's transition into stand-up comedy was both a lifeline and a new set of challenges. He describes his initial forays into open mics at the Punchline in San Francisco, highlighting the competitive and often intimidating nature of the comedy scene:

"I was like, do you know who I am? You're like, I'm a monster. And they're like, no, you're not." (71:12)

Despite opening for renowned comedians like Burt Kreischer and navigating the demanding logistics of road tours, Steve faced the perennial struggle of building a unique comedic identity. He reflects on the difficulties of standing out in a saturated market and the personal growth that comes from these hurdles.

Life on the Road and Building a Career

The conversation delves into Steve's extensive experiences touring and performing at various comedy clubs across California and Canada. He talks about the grueling nature of "triple runs," where comedians perform multiple shows in different cities back-to-back. These sessions were less about making a mark and more about survival within the industry:

"I was first or second... and then I'm doing it every... and then I was like, I'll just run my own shows." (73:59)

Steve emphasizes the importance of perseverance and carving out one's own space in the comedy world, even when external recognition is minimal. His dedication to consistently honing his craft underscores his commitment to stand-up as not just a career, but a defining passion.

Insights on Comedy and Personal Growth

Throughout the episode, Steve shares valuable insights on the nature of comedy, the importance of authenticity, and the personal transformations that come with pursuing one's true calling. He touches upon the existential aspects of performing, where the act becomes a mirror reflecting his journey of self-discovery and resilience.

"Find the love... we're all in this shit show together. Some people are more responsible for it than others." (19:48)

This philosophy extends beyond the stage, influencing how Steve approaches life’s challenges and his ongoing quest for personal fulfillment.

Concluding Thoughts

As the conversation wraps up, Steve Fury offers a heartfelt shout-out to his mother, acknowledging her unwavering support throughout his journey:

"So I want to give a shout out to my mom. What up, mom? I did a dog." (83:29)

Marc Maron reciprocates the gratitude, highlighting the profound impact of family and mentorship in shaping one's path.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience and Adaptation: Steve's ability to transition from a perilous life of drug dealing to a fulfilling career in comedy underscores the power of resilience and adaptability.

• Authenticity in Art: Emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself, Steve advocates for authenticity as a cornerstone of meaningful comedy.

• Empathy and Relationships: Navigating complex family dynamics with empathy, especially in the face of aging and illness, is a recurring theme that offers profound life lessons.

Notable Quotes

• "If you're showing up for dinner, you don't have to do that, but you're doing it. There's got to be something in that bag that defines who you are..." (18:12)

• "Find the love, folks. Find the love. Because everyone's going to die and we're all in this shit show together." (19:48)

• "You try to see what the other components are. I mean, if you have love for these people, you know, try and get to that place because they're not going to be around forever." (19:33)

About Steve Fury

Steve Fury is a seasoned comedian with a rich background that blends personal adversity with professional triumphs. From his days navigating the dangerous corridors of drug dealing to mastering the art of stand-up comedy, Steve's journey is a testament to overcoming obstacles and embracing one's true passion. His ongoing work includes performing at renowned comedy clubs, hosting shows, and continuing to build a unique presence in the comedy world.

Further Listening

For those interested in diving deeper into Steve Fury’s experiences and comedic insights, visit his official website and follow his social media. To explore more revealing conversations, subscribe to WTF with Marc Maron on your preferred podcast platform.