The Entertainment Industry, The American Dream & New York City | Andrew Schulz | PBD Podcast
Added: Mar 18, 2024
In this podcast episode, Patrick Bet-David is joined by comedian Andrew Schulz. Schulz talks about his upbringing and how his parents played a significant role in shaping his confidence and sense of humor. His mother, a three-time US ballroom dance champion, and his father, a journalist, instilled in him the value of hard work and curiosity. He credits his parents for always listening to him and making him feel like his opinions mattered, which helped build his confidence.
Family Influence
Schulz's parents supported him in pursuing his dreams, whether it was opening a bar or becoming a comedian. They were always encouraging and believed in his potential. Schulz's father, in particular, had a fascinating career in journalism, producing news stories and even covering the emergence of hip-hop music in New York. His mother's entrepreneurial spirit and success as a dance champion also influenced Schulz's work ethic and drive.
He shares a touching moment when his father, who is battling dementia, attended one of his shows at Madison Square Garden. This experience was emotional for him, as it symbolized his father's unwavering belief in him.
Challenges in the Industry
Schulz discusses the challenges of the entertainment industry, including the pressure to conform to certain norms and expectations. He highlights the issue of laziness among writers and comedians, who often resort to recycled jokes and content to appease audiences. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and staying true to one's values, even in a competitive and sometimes cutthroat industry.
National Identity
Schulz reflects on the impact of culture and pride in shaping one's identity. He stresses the need for a Pride movement and a sense of national identity, especially in a diverse and multicultural society like America. He believes that having pride in one's heritage and values can help foster a sense of unity and purpose among individuals.
Media Manipulation
Schulz raises concerns about media manipulation and the spread of misinformation in today's digital age. He discusses how laziness and the pursuit of profit can lead to the distortion of facts and the perpetuation of false narratives. He points out the dangers of allowing external forces to control the narrative and influence public opinion. He advocates for critical thinking and a sense of responsibility among media professionals to uphold journalistic integrity and ethical standards.
The American Dream
Schulz emphasizes the importance of opportunity in America and how it allows individuals to be the best version of themselves. He highlights the unique opportunities available in the country, such as the ability to make a living by simply talking on a podcast. He believes that Americans often take these opportunities for granted and fail to recognize how good they have it compared to other parts of the world.
Tribalism and Division
The conversation also touches on the issue of tribalism and division in America. Schulz points out the polarizing rhetoric coming from both sides of the political spectrum. He criticizes the extreme views that paint America as either perfect or irredeemably flawed. He advocates for a more balanced and nuanced approach to discussing the country's strengths and weaknesses.
Military Service and National Service
While Schulz acknowledges the voluntary nature of the military as a source of strength, he also sees value in promoting national service among young Americans. He reflects on his own regret of not serving in some capacity and believes that a year of national service could instill a sense of pride and duty in the youth. He suggests that a mandatory pledge of allegiance in schools and a focus on the national anthem could also help reinforce national identity.
Critical Discourse and Improvement
Schulz advocates for open and honest discussions about the country's challenges and opportunities. He believes that constructive criticism and dialogue are essential for addressing issues like prison reform and gun control. He emphasizes the importance of finding common ground and working together to improve the country without resorting to extreme negativity or division.
New York City Dynamics
Schulz reflects on the unique dynamics of New York City, emphasizing the city's pride and resilience. He acknowledges the city's rich history and cultural diversity, which contribute to its vibrant atmosphere. He also mentions the challenges faced by New Yorkers, including the high cost of living and the pressure to succeed in a competitive environment.
The discussion shifts to the issue of illegal immigration and its impact on New York City. Schulz points out the strain on resources and services caused by the influx of migrants seeking asylum. He highlights the need for effective policies to address the situation and ensure the well-being of both immigrants and local residents.
Schulz delves into the rising crime rates in New York City and the challenges faced by law enforcement. He discusses the implications of defunding the police and the need for a balanced approach to maintaining public safety. He emphasizes the importance of democracy and accountability in addressing crime and ensuring the protection of all citizens.
The conversation touches on the political landscape of New York City, with a focus on the role of mayors and governors. Schulz explains the significance of the mayor in New York City and the impact of their policies on the city's residents. He also reflects on the historical dominance of Democratic governors in the state and the influence of political affiliations on governance.
Charlamagne tha God
The conversation then shifts to Charlamagne tha God, who is praised by Schulz as a highly influential figure in the media industry. Schulz highlights Charlamagne's ability to maintain his position at the top of the industry for over a decade, despite facing challenges and competition from other media outlets. Charlamagne is described as a smart and hilarious individual who is in tune with culture and knows how to engage with his audience effectively.
Schulz also mentions Charlamagne's willingness to criticize both political parties, including the Democratic party. He commends Charlamagne for holding politicians accountable and speaking out against issues such as systemic racism and political corruption. Schulz believes that Charlamagne's critical approach to politics sets him apart from other media personalities and contributes to his success.
State of the Economy
The conversation then shifts to the current state of the economy, with Schulz discussing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on financial markets. He acknowledges the significant amount of money that has been printed by the government in response to the pandemic, leading to concerns about inflation and economic stability. Despite the challenges, he points out that the US economy has shown resilience and has bounced back from the crisis better than other major economies.
Schulz emphasizes the importance of having a moral compass when making financial decisions, suggesting that sacrificing short-term gains for long-term stability is crucial for the country's economic health. He advocates for higher interest rates and stricter lending practices to prevent economic bubbles and promote responsible financial behavior.
2024 Election
The conversation then delves into the upcoming 2024 election and the potential candidates. Schulz predicts that the election will focus on issues such as immigration, China, and the economy. He believes that the current political climate is divisive and unpredictable, with both parties vying for power and influence.
He also discusses the role of humor in politics, citing former President Donald Trump as a master of comedic insults and marketing tactics. He praises Trump's unique speaking style and ability to captivate audiences with his unorthodox approach to politics. Despite the controversy surrounding Trump, Schulz acknowledges his comedic talent and charisma.
He highlights Trump's ability to win but acknowledges his shortcomings as a leader. The conversation delves into the importance of leadership and the need for Trump to focus on leading rather than winning.
Incident Involving Don Lemon
The conversation shifts to a recent incident involving Don Lemon, who allegedly made a series of contractual demands before appearing on a new show streaming on X. Elon Musk responded by comparing Lemon to a spoiled child from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, highlighting the absurdity of Lemon's demands.
Dynamics of the Entertainment Industry
The host and guest also discuss the dynamics of the entertainment industry, including the recent firing of agents and leaked information about celebrities. They touch upon the power dynamics at play in Hollywood and the impact of public perception on individuals' careers. The guest shares his insights on the importance of maintaining professionalism and handling negotiations with care.
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