Tom Papa: Comedy & The Twisting Roads Of Politics/Social Media

Added: Sep 5, 2023

Embracing Flaws

Papa discusses the importance of embracing our flaws and recognizing that everyone is screwed up in some way. He emphasizes that some people are just better at pretending they're not. Papa believes that the younger generation is more open about mental health and therapy, but he also acknowledges that there is no fixing our flaws completely. He encourages listeners to understand that they are not alone in their struggles and that everyone is dealing with their own burdens. Papa challenges the notion that social media and cable news try to divide people and make them believe that everyone hates each other. He urges listeners to turn off cable news and focus on enjoying life and having fun.

Unity and Understanding

Papa emphasizes the importance of unity and understanding in a divided world. He believes that despite our differences, we are all in this together. He challenges the idea that we are alone in our struggles and that we are the only ones dealing with crazy parents or burdens. Papa encourages listeners to recognize that everyone is going through similar experiences and that we should support and empathize with one another. He believes that the media tries to divide people by scaring them and making them angry, but it is important to see through this and focus on unity and understanding.

Navigating Politics and Social Media

Papa discusses the divisive nature of politics and social media. He believes that cable news channels like Fox and MSNBC are not looking out for people's best interests but rather trying to scare and anger them to keep them watching. He encourages listeners to turn off cable news and not let it influence their opinions and beliefs. Papa also criticizes the way social media platforms can contribute to the division among people. He believes that people are constantly sizing each other up and trying to determine which team they are on, which leads to further division. Papa suggests that people should focus on their own lives and relationships rather than getting caught up in the negativity of social media.

Vulnerability and Humility

Papa discusses the importance of vulnerability and humility, particularly in the arts. He believes that vulnerability keeps artists uncertain and motivated to keep working hard. He shares his own experiences of feeling vulnerable and scared before performing, even after 30 years in the industry. Papa believes that vulnerability is necessary for growth and improvement. He also emphasizes the importance of humility, as it allows artists to stay grounded and open to learning from others. Papa believes that a balance between confidence and humility is crucial for success in the arts.

Enjoying Life and Making it Better

Papa encourages listeners to enjoy life and make it better. He believes that life is short, especially as an adult with some money in your pocket. He urges listeners to have as much fun as possible and not take life too seriously. Papa suggests getting a pontoon boat, bowling shoes, and making jokes with your kids. He emphasizes the importance of changing things quickly and not wasting time. Papa believes that by enjoying life and having fun, we can make a positive impact on ourselves and those around us.

Making the Leap and Pursuing Something that Gives You Value

In the podcast, Tom Papa discusses the importance of making the leap and pursuing something that gives you value in life. He emphasizes that this pursuit doesn't have to be limited to show business; it can be anything that pulls you in a certain direction and promises personal growth and achievement. Papa believes that this desire to pursue something meaningful is not silly, but rather a driving force that enriches one's life.

He gives examples of different paths people can take, such as becoming a dentist or raising children, and highlights that these choices also require a leap of faith. Papa reflects on his own journey as a comedian and how he initially felt the need to change how he felt about himself. He admits that he became addicted to the pursuit of success and growth, which became his drug.

The Feeling of Connection and Achievement in Comedy

Papa describes the feeling he experiences when he successfully connects with an audience through his comedy. He compares it to finding a hidden gem, a rock, among the leaves. When he shares a thought or observation that resonates with the crowd and elicits laughter, he feels a deep sense of connection. This connection signifies that his message has been understood and appreciated by others.

He acknowledges that this feeling of connection is like a drug to him, and he cannot imagine going through life without searching for those moments. Papa believes that the vulnerability and constant learning involved in comedy are essential for personal growth and the ability to share life lessons with others.

The Journey of Growth and Experiences

Throughout the podcast, Papa emphasizes the importance of growth and experiences in life. He believes that these are the driving forces behind his pursuit of comedy and writing books. Papa mentions that he has always been writing and expressing himself through various mediums, and he sees comedy and writing as extensions of the same journey.

He expresses his love for learning life lessons from others and being inspired by successful people in his family. Papa believes that every phase of life presents new challenges and opportunities for growth. He mentions that he constantly strives to handle each phase better and improve himself.

Appreciating the Quirks and Differences in Relationships

Papa discusses the importance of appreciating the quirks and differences in relationships, particularly in the context of marriage. He shares a personal anecdote about his wife's side of the bathroom sink being cluttered with various items, while his side remains minimalistic. Initially, he expected her to be like him, but he realized that appreciating and accepting these differences is crucial for a successful relationship.

He acknowledges that everyone has their own hang-ups and preferences, and it is essential to find a balance and respect each other's individuality. Papa believes that separate sinks and even separate toilets can contribute to a happy marriage by allowing each person to have their own space and privacy.

The Ability to Change Everything Quickly

Papa emphasizes the ability to change everything quickly in life. He believes that people often underestimate how quickly they can make significant changes. He uses the example of losing weight and becoming more active, stating that within a month, a person can become a completely different individual.

Papa encourages listeners to be impatient about making changes and to seize opportunities for growth and transformation. He believes that time is short, and it is crucial to take action and pursue one's dreams and aspirations. Papa reflects on his own journey and how quickly he was able to transition from a regular job to pursuing comedy full-time.