Joey Diaz | This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von #685

Early Life and Mother's Influence [00:00:00]

• Joey Diaz recounts his mother's struggles with gambling, including betting on baseball games and horses.
• He describes how her addiction escalated after selling her business, leading to late-night gambling at various tracks.
• Diaz shares the tragic story of his mother's death, which he believes was from a "broken heart" disguised as a heart attack.
• He recalls finding her and the profound impact it had on his life, leading to a period of not wanting to live.

  "She died of a broken heart it's not chinese call a broken heart disguised as uh disguised as a heart attack"

Coping Mechanisms and Self-Discovery [00:06:10]

• Diaz discusses the coping mechanisms he developed after his mother's death, including lying to himself about her potential return.
• He describes sneaking into his mother's empty house and sitting on the steps, hoping she might have made a mistake and would come back.
• The comedian recounts a disturbing incident where, in a drug-induced state, he dug at his mother's grave to confirm her death.
• He reflects on how these experiences, though painful, led to self-discovery and a deeper understanding of himself.

  "I remember one night i got so up i went to the grave and started digging it up in my hands bro"

Lessons from Mother's Teachings [00:15:30]

• Diaz shares a story about his mother smacking him at 15 for coming home late, explaining it was to teach him responsibility to a future wife.
• He reflects on how he initially dismissed this lesson, wanting to be a playboy, but now understands its importance.
• The comedian discusses his mother's desire for him to be a Marine, a plan that was derailed by her death.
• He acknowledges that his mother's strictness, while difficult at the time, instilled valuable life lessons.

  "She smacked you in the face because someday you're gonna have a wife and you have to be responsible to your wife"

Moving to New Jersey and Family Life [00:21:45]

• Diaz explains his decision to move from Los Angeles to New Jersey, seeking a more grounded and family-oriented life.
• He describes the appeal of New Jersey's natural beauty and the desire to provide a different environment for his daughter.
• The comedian shares his commitment to creating a warm and stable home, contrasting it with his own upbringing.
• He discusses his daughter's upbringing, including rules about cursing until college, to encourage her education.

  "I wanted her to at least feel what I felt in a way to a degree she'll never you know feel the shittiness i felt"

Childhood and Parental Struggles [00:28:00]

• Diaz recounts his childhood experiences, including his father's struggles with hearing and driving, leading to embarrassing situations.
• He describes his father's old car, which was in poor condition, and the shame he felt because of their poverty.
• The comedian shares a story about his father falling asleep in the carpool line, causing embarrassment.
• He reflects on how these difficult childhood memories, though shameful at the time, contributed to his life story.

  "I was already embarrassed because we're poor and then i had to walk out of here with half a kitkat hanging off my neck"

Mother's Influence and Early Jobs [00:35:00]

• Diaz describes his mother's eccentricities, including stealing a church bell for good luck at Mets games.
• He shares a story about his mother's gambling habits and how they impacted the family.
• The comedian recounts working door-to-door selling Italian food with his mother's boyfriend as a child.
• He reflects on how these early experiences, though challenging, provided valuable lessons and shaped his perspective.

  "She stole the chair from church yeah stole the chair and she'd take it to the mech games and ring them for good luck"

The Impact of Addiction [00:45:00]

• Diaz details his 28-year struggle with cocaine addiction, from 1979 to 2007, and its profound effects on his life.
• He recounts instances of kidnapping and paying his debt to society due to his addiction.
• The comedian shares how he returned to using drugs even after facing legal consequences.
• He speaks about the devastating impact of addiction on his relationships, including losing contact with his daughter for over 20 years.

  "I had that in my body it was in my thought and it does affect you"

The Power of Sobriety and Recovery [00:50:00]

• Diaz emphasizes the transformative power of sobriety, highlighting his accomplishments in the 19 years since quitting cocaine.
• He contrasts his life before sobriety, marked by addiction and legal troubles, with his current life of marriage, career, and fatherhood.
• The comedian shares his belief that sobriety unlocks one's true potential and allows for genuine happiness.
• He encourages others to stick to their recovery programs, emphasizing that it's about becoming a better version of oneself.

  "In 19 years i became a dad the same was it stuff you never thought you could do never"

Finding Purpose and Self-Respect [01:00:00]

• Diaz discusses how sobriety helped him regain self-respect and learn to stand up for himself in professional settings.
• He shares an anecdote about confronting a director on a commercial shoot, asserting his worth and demanding mutual respect.
• The comedian reflects on how Hollywood can distort one's perception and how sobriety allowed him to see through the superficiality.
• He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and not compromising one's values for career advancement.

  "I became a fucking animal that's it you're going to treat me like a man"

Comedy Career and Life Philosophy [01:10:00]

• Diaz reflects on his comedy career, expressing a desire to focus on being funny rather than corporate success.
• He shares his current outlook on life, prioritizing happiness and enjoyment over financial gain.
• The comedian discusses his move to Austin, Texas, seeking more stage time and a better work-life balance.
• He emphasizes the importance of connection and social interaction in maintaining well-being, especially at his age.

  "I don't give a fuck if I get canceled yeah I don't give a about anything as a matter of fact there's only one thing I care about is being funny"

The Role of Community and Support [01:20:00]

• Diaz highlights the importance of community and support systems in recovery and personal growth.
• He shares his positive experiences with fellow comedians and friends, emphasizing the energy and camaraderie they provide.
• The comedian discusses the benefits of surrounding oneself with positive influences and engaging in activities that bring joy.
• He expresses gratitude for the support he has received and his desire to give back to others.

  "Energy yeah that's why like I'll go hang out around like uh I'll go like I'm a Vanderbilt football fan right"

Fatherhood and Legacy [01:30:00]

• Diaz speaks about his deep love for his daughter and his commitment to being a present and supportive father.
• He reflects on how his own upbringing influenced his parenting style, striving to create a warm and loving home.
• The comedian shares his desire for his daughter to be street-smart and well-prepared for life's challenges.
• He emphasizes the importance of leaving a positive legacy and guiding his daughter with wisdom and love.

  "I want that kid to be street smart and that's what these children are missing today"

Reflections on Past and Future [01:40:00]

• Diaz shares his regret about not having more sober years to achieve even greater success.
• He expresses contentment with his current life and gratitude for what he has, despite past struggles.
• The comedian encourages listeners to stick to their programs and focus on becoming the best version of themselves.
• He believes that true happiness and fulfillment come from within and from making positive choices.

  "I'm a lucky 63 year old because right now I'm supposed to be on a ship"

The Power of Connection and Shared Experience [01:50:00]

• Diaz emphasizes the importance of human connection and shared experiences in overcoming challenges.
• He recounts stories of his past, including using Greyhound buses and encountering diverse individuals, as sources of material and life lessons.
• The comedian highlights how these experiences, though sometimes difficult, have shaped him into the person he is today.
• He believes that sharing these stories and connecting with others is a vital part of the human experience.

  "And as a comic we base our lives on stories"

The Journey of Self-Improvement [02:00:00]

• Diaz discusses the ongoing process of self-improvement and the importance of staying true to oneself.
• He shares his belief that true happiness comes from within and from making positive choices.
• The comedian encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves and pursue their passions with determination.
• He emphasizes that life is a journey of continuous learning and growth, and that every experience, good or bad, contributes to who we become.

  "It's not just one package once a week now you're doing five packages a week and it starts becoming you"

Building a Better Future [02:10:00]

• Diaz shares his vision for the future, focusing on continued growth, happiness, and making a positive impact on others.
• He emphasizes the importance of living a life of purpose and integrity, guided by strong values and principles.
• The comedian encourages listeners to embrace challenges, learn from their mistakes, and never give up on their dreams.
• He believes that with dedication, perseverance, and a positive outlook, anything is possible.

  "And that's what I want you to really get in your life so I appreciate that dude"

A Message of Hope and Resilience [02:20:00]

• Diaz offers a message of hope and resilience to those struggling with addiction or other life challenges.
• He shares his own story of overcoming adversity, emphasizing that change is possible with the right support and determination.
• The comedian encourages listeners to reach out for help, connect with others, and never lose faith in themselves.
• He believes that everyone has the potential to overcome their struggles and live a fulfilling life.

  "And I really want you to do well with this now I really want you to put your because you have a whole world ahead of you that you don't know"

The Value of Authenticity [02:30:00]

• Diaz stresses the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself in all aspects of life.
• He shares how embracing his true self has led to greater happiness and fulfillment.
• The comedian encourages listeners to be genuine, honest, and transparent in their interactions with others.
• He believes that authenticity is the key to building strong relationships and living a meaningful life.

  "I got talent motherfucker all right I don't have to show up with nothing right"

The Power of Comedy and Storytelling [02:40:00]

• Diaz highlights the power of comedy and storytelling to connect with people and share life experiences.
• He shares how his own life experiences have provided him with a wealth of material and insights.
• The comedian encourages listeners to embrace their unique stories and use them to inspire and entertain others.
• He believes that laughter and shared experiences can bring people together and create a sense of community.

  "And as a comic we base our lives on stories before I even go on my material I took a bus here today"

Looking Ahead: The Future of Comedy and Life [02:50:00]

• Diaz expresses his excitement for the future, looking forward to continuing his comedy career and exploring new opportunities.
• He shares his plans for upcoming shows and projects, demonstrating his passion for his craft.
• The comedian emphasizes the importance of staying engaged, creative, and open to new experiences.
• He believes that life is a continuous journey of learning and growth, and that there are always new adventures to be had.

  "I'm just floating on the breeze and I feel I'm falling like these leaves"