This episode of the "Take Your Shoes Off" podcast features host Rick Glassman in a wide-ranging, comedic conversation with fellow comedian Jordan Jensen. The discussion covers a diverse array of personal and professional topics, from quirky habits and anecdotes to their perspectives on the comedy industry. Key segments include Jensen bringing a large amount of cash to the studio, a deep dive into her experiences with OCD and anger, and their shared thoughts on fellow comedian John Rudnitsky. A recurring theme throughout the episode is their attempt to get Rudnitsky to join the podcast in person, culminating in his brief and chaotic arrival at the very end, where he delivers a closing stream-of-consciousness monologue.
A Conversation with Rick Glassman and Jordan Jensen: Cash, Comedy, and Neuroses
0:01:08 A Pile of Cash: The episode begins with guest Jordan Jensen bringing a large pile of cash, joking it's the money she owes her therapist. She explains she often gets paid in cash from comedy clubs.
0:07:14 Handling Hecklers: Jensen shares a recent story about dealing with a drunk female heckler who was professing her love during a show.
0:08:24 The John Rudnitsky Saga Begins: Rick and Jordan discuss their mutual friend, comedian John Rudnitsky, describing him as incredibly funny but also deeply anxious. They attempt to call him to join the podcast.
0:13:11 The Problem with "My Opener": The hosts have a thoughtful discussion on the possessive language used in comedy, agreeing that saying "my opener" feels strange and proprietary, similar to calling oneself a pet's "owner."
0:14:53 Unconventional Habits: Jordan admits to some of her less-than-hygienic habits, including occasionally falling asleep in bed with her shoes on, especially during bouts of depression.
0:17:45 The Power of a Clip: Rick credits Jordan for encouraging him to post a popular stand-up clip ("Gay. Black. Jewish. Gay."), sparking a conversation about the strategy and reluctance behind posting performance clips.
0:22:19 Social Commentary on Comedy: The conversation touches on the lack of Black female comics in the industry, which Jordan attributes to the burdens of systematic oppression.
0:25:25 Modern Vices: Rick critiques the over-accessibility of processed sugar and pornography, arguing they create a "paradox of choice" that diminishes genuine satisfaction.
0:36:58 A Newfound Appreciation for Las Vegas: A self-proclaimed "Vegas hater," Rick explains how he's started to enjoy the city by focusing on good food and shows instead of the chaotic casino environment. Jordan, in contrast, loves to gamble.
0:50:20 Anger and OCD: Jordan opens up about her personal struggles, admitting she sometimes punches walls out of anger before shows and detailing her OCD rituals, such as drinking excessive amounts of water before bed due to an irrational fear.
1:00:05 The Perils of Gossip: Having previously debated the topic, Jordan concedes that talking badly about others is a bad idea after recounting an incident where she criticized a comedian in front of one of their close friends.
1:15:20 John Rudnitsky Arrives: After numerous calls and texts, John Rudnitsky finally arrives at the studio just as the podcast is forced to end due to a hard out-time.
1:18:57 John's Monologue: Left alone on a hot mic after Rick and Jordan leave the room, John Rudnitsky delivers an anxious, funny, and existential monologue about the pressures of life, his career, and the search for love, bringing the episode's running joke to a perfect conclusion.