Late night host and comedian Jon Stewart joins the podcast to support out-of-work late night staffs. Topics covered include the history of Pepsi, podcasting process, sliced onion remedy, early days at The Daily Show, and finding purpose through music.
Jon Stewart's first concert experience solidified his love for Van Halen and their energetic performances.
Drumming became an important hobby for Jon Stewart after leaving The Daily Show, bringing joy and structure to his post-talk show life.
Jon Stewart took a chance on love and found a lasting connection with his wife Tracy, appreciating her humor and intelligence.
Deep dives
John Stewart's Love for Van Halen and Concert Memories
John Stewart recalls his first concert experience seeing Van Halen at the Philadelphia Spectrum in 1977. He remembers the energy and excitement of the band's performance and how it solidified his love for Van Halen. He also shares anecdotes about his encounters with the band and their lively backstage antics.
Musical Inspiration and Drumming as a Hobby
John Stewart discusses how he picked up drumming as a hobby after leaving The Daily Show. He shares how drumming allows him to interact with music and fill his day with structured activities. He highlights the joy and fulfillment he finds in learning to play music and the positive impact it has had on his post-talk show life.
First Date with Tracy and Falling in Love
John Stewart recounts his first date with his wife Tracy and the moment he fell in love with her. He shares how their initial meeting was met with his nervousness and her quietness, but as the night progressed, he found her funny and smart, which led to a lasting connection. He reflects on the note he wrote her and the decision he made to take a chance on love.
Favorite Late Night Bits and Memories
John Stewart discusses his favorite bits from late night television, specifically mentioning Steve Martin and Albert Brooks' meta and absurdist sketches. He applauds their creativity and unexpectedness, emphasizing how they inspired him as a performer and made an impact on late night comedy.
Cafe Wa Performance and Backstage Stories
John Stewart shares his experience seeing Van Halen perform at Cafe Wa and the unexpected joy of witnessing the iconic stadium rock band in an intimate setting. He reminisces about the memorable moments from the performance, including David Lee Roth's injury and Eddie and Alex's laughter. He also recalls joining them backstage and witnessing their unique rituals and behaviors.
The Importance of Basements and Structured Post-Talk Show Lives
John Stewart emphasizes the importance of filling the void left by the structured routine of a talk show with hobbies and activities. He discusses how playing music and drumming in his soundproof basement became an integral part of his post-talk show life, providing structure and creative fulfillment.
