Jake Johnson

Jake Johnson, a Chicago native and comedian, shares a common bond with the show's host over their shared experiences growing up in the Windy City. They discussed their Chicago roots, their love for negotiating, and their families' backgrounds. Johnson's father had a troubled past with drugs, and they both grew up in different parts of Chicago with unique experiences. Despite their differences, they found common ground in their hustler mentality, which they grew up with. Johnson's podcast, "We're Here to Help," is a must-listen for fans of his comedy and raw storytelling. The Bad Friends tour is coming to several cities, including Boston, Washington D.C., Denver, and Chicago, so be sure to check out badfriendspod.com for tickets.

Hustle and resilience are key elements for success, no matter the industry or background. The speaker's uncles, who worked in greyhound racing and neon sign making, used their resourcefulness and persuasive abilities to create businesses and make a living. They hustled to obtain materials, negotiated prices, and built relationships, despite facing challenges and criticism. This mindset of making things happen, even in unfavorable circumstances, is a common trait among successful individuals. Whether it's in business or personal life, having the ability to adapt, convince, and create opportunities can lead to great achievements.

Charm and positivity can disarm even the toughest situations. The speaker's father, Crocco, used this approach to win over people, from valets to older women, despite his fake compliments and deceptive intentions. People seemed to enjoy the game and the momentary connection, revealing a human desire for niceness and positivity. The speaker's mother, on the other hand, thrived on conflict and negativity, a stark contrast to her husband's approach. Ultimately, the power of charm and positivity can create unexpected connections and improve the day for both parties involved.

Not everyone enjoys or is suited for physical fights, despite societal pressure to be tough or machismo. The speaker shares his personal dislike for fighting, describing the pain and soreness it causes, and how he has only been in one fight in his life. He also recalls an experience where he was threatened by his mother to fight his sister, but ultimately didn't want to due to her greater size and anger. The speaker's aversion to fighting stems from the pain and discomfort it brings, as well as the fear of causing harm to others. He acknowledges that everyone wants to be the tough guy, but emphasizes that it's not a realistic expectation for everyone.

Everyone's upbringing and experiences shape them in unique ways. The speaker shared a story about how his mother's tough love and determination helped him grow up with a strong sense of resilience. However, he also acknowledged that not everyone has had the same privileges and support. The discussion then shifted to the importance of online privacy and security, leading to the introduction of Aura as a solution to protect against identity theft and online threats. The speaker emphasized the significance of being aware of the vast amount of personal information available online and the potential risks it poses. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of both personal growth and digital safety.

Both Aura and Rabbit Hole offer valuable protections and experiences, respectively. Aura, a comprehensive digital security service, helps safeguard personal information and provides tools like parental controls, VPN, password managers, and credit card activity monitoring. Meanwhile, Rabbit Hole, a distillery, offers a range of award-winning bourbon and rye whiskeys, crafted with care and high-quality ingredients. Both require dedication and effort – Aura in protecting digital privacy, and Rabbit Hole in creating exceptional spirits. The speaker's belief is that hustle plays a significant role in success, outweighing the importance of talent. By using Aura and enjoying Rabbit Hole's offerings, individuals can enhance their security and enjoyment in the digital and physical worlds. For a limited time, Aura offers a free 14-day trial and data check at aura.com/whiskey, while Rabbit Hole's whiskeys can be found at rabbit hole distillery.com/drizly or in local liquor stores.

The business world can be ruthless and competitive, and it's essential to keep pushing forward and improving to secure a seat at the table. The speaker shares a personal experience of a talented friend who seemingly gave up on his potential, leading the speaker to question why he didn't care and have the drive to succeed. The conversation then shifts to the idea that the business landscape is always changing, and it's important to adapt and stay competitive. The speaker also reflects on the importance of storytelling and believing in one's abilities to succeed. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience, determination, and a willingness to hustle in order to thrive in business.

The entertainment industry can be a challenging and competitive environment, especially for newcomers. In the discussion, the speaker shares an experience where he was asked to be in a YouTube video but was hesitant due to his professional commitments and fear of being seen in a less than ideal light. He also talks about the older generation's perception of younger actors working for free and the importance of staying true to oneself and one's craft. The speaker also touches upon the importance of improvisation and the value of giving and taking in a collaborative work environment. Ultimately, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying focused on one's goals and not letting external pressures deter one from pursuing one's dreams. Additionally, the speaker expresses admiration for those who can give as well as take in improvisational scenes, and the value of being the first audience member in episodic work to keep things fresh and engaging.

Creating a fun and enjoyable environment on set can make long, hardworking days more enjoyable for everyone involved. This can be achieved by putting colleagues in their comfort zones and encouraging improvisation, even if it may not be used in the final product. The shared experience of making each other laugh and enjoying the process can lead to stronger bonds and increased morale. The speaker fondly recalls working with La'Morn Morris and Max Greenfield, who shared in this childish yet fun improvisational spirit despite disapproval from the crew and writers. Ultimately, the speaker believes that even in the fake world of acting and comedy, it's important to remember that everyone is just "playing dress up" and having fun. The speaker's own dream was to be a part of Saturday Night Live, and the shared sense of humor and camaraderie on set can make that dream a reality.

For both individuals in this conversation, their dreams and passions in the world of comedy have evolved over time. When they were younger, their goals were to be on television as a stand-up comedian or a character on a sitcom, like Cheers. However, as they gained experience and saw the demands and realities of these careers, their perspectives shifted. They came to appreciate the unique challenges and rewards of stand-up comedy and acting, and realized that they could continue to pursue both passions throughout their lives. Ultimately, their dreams have become a lifelong commitment to making people laugh through various mediums.

The Chicago film and television industry holds a special place in the speaker's heart due to the abundance of Chicago-based productions and iconic actors who embody the city's unique vibe. The speaker expresses appreciation for the sense of community and authenticity that comes with these shows, which felt like they were made "for us." Despite the changing landscape of television with the rise of streaming services and shorter series, the speaker believes that sitcoms will still have a place in the future, and that the industry should continue to experiment and innovate to keep audiences engaged. The speaker also reflects on the value of collaboration and the importance of serving the audience as an actor. Overall, the speaker's reflections demonstrate a deep love and respect for the art of television and the role it plays in shaping our cultural landscape.

Creating and maintaining success, whether it's in entertainment or any other field, requires dedication, consistency, and a team effort. People often want to label others and pigeonhole them into certain roles, but it's essential to remember that everyone has unique strengths and weaknesses. It's crucial to maintain a positive attitude, even when faced with challenges or criticism. The entertainment industry, like sports, can be particularly demanding, and it's essential to remember that success doesn't come easily or overnight. It takes hard work, resilience, and a willingness to adapt. It's essential to remember that everyone is human and deserves respect and gratitude, regardless of their role or position. It's also important to remember that success can bring its own challenges, such as dealing with external expectations and internal feelings of inadequacy. Ultimately, the key is to focus on the team goal and remember that everyone has a role to play in achieving success.

Despite their similar roles as tight ends in the NFL, the disparity in their salaries and contract terms highlights the business side of sports. The speaker feels undervalued and frustrated with the offer of a minimum wage contract, while acknowledging the importance of team identity and leadership. The conversation also touches on the speaker's personal experiences with Aaron Rodgers and the evolution of fans' perceptions of him. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the complexities and nuances of professional sports, where personal and professional dynamics intersect with financial considerations.

The speaker has experienced a long-standing rivalry between San Francisco and Los Angeles, representing different perspectives and attitudes towards football, specifically the Chicago Bears. The speaker expresses indifference towards the criticism from San Francisco fans and maintains his support for the Bears, acknowledging their impressive performances and potential for growth. He also shares his admiration for coaches who exhibit intense passion and leadership, such as Bill Belichick and Gregg Popovich. However, the speaker expresses concern about the Bears' tendency to become overconfident and self-destructive when they experience success. He draws a comparison to the Chicago Cubs, who are often criticized for their poor performance but have a strong fanbase that rallies behind them. The speaker's tone is reflective and insightful, offering a unique perspective on the dynamics of sports fandom and the importance of staying grounded in the face of success.

The decision-making process in the NFL draft can be influenced by various factors, including a player's social media presence and the pressure and influence young athletes face. During the draft, the speaker discussed his excitement about watching Deshaun Watson play and how he believed he would be a good addition to his team. However, a tweet from a different quarterback, Mitchell Trubisky, about liking "kissing titties" overshadowed the draft moment. The speaker found the tweet amusing and respected Trubisky for being open about his preferences. However, the incident highlights the importance of being mindful of one's online presence, especially for young athletes in high-pressure environments. The speaker also shared his thoughts on the pressures and expectations placed on young athletes, comparing them to machines being groomed for success. Ultimately, the speaker emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of external pressures.

Attending an early UFC event was a unique experience, unlike any other sporting event. The speaker was surprised by the high percentage of trained fighters in the crowd and the brutal nature of the fights. He felt the energy and excitement, but also the intensity and danger. The speaker compared the experience to watching a violent action film, with faces turning into "mashed potatoes" and legs swelling. He also expressed his belief that there should be a referee with the power to stop the fight when necessary, for the safety of the fighters. The speaker also mentioned his fascination with the growing popularity of bare knuckle boxing, which he believes may eventually rival the UFC in popularity, despite the extreme violence and visible damage to the fighters' faces.

The speaker shares a cynical perspective towards certain aspects of entertainment, specifically a reality show called Slapboxing. He acknowledges that some participants are athletes, but also points out that others are motivated by extreme financial need. The speaker expresses concern for the potential harm and long-term consequences of the violent nature of the show. Despite this, he admits to being drawn to it and even imagines engaging in such activities off-camera. The speaker ends the conversation by participating in a tradition of ending the show with a phrase, "Go Bears," and expresses a desire for a drink. Overall, the speaker's words reveal a complex relationship with the entertainment industry and the potential risks and rewards it presents.