Jonathan Ames, a New York-based writer known for HBO's Bored to Death, shares intriguing insights about his eclectic life. He humorously discusses his experience with celebrity culture, including a comedic take on Kylie Jenner and Bradley Cooper. Ames explores his unique relationship with tinned fish and his vegan diet, which cost him too much weight. He also touches on memorable moments from his celebrity boxing career, his Buddhist lifestyle, and even the surprising ability to read words backward. Expect laughter and candid reflections!
The podcast explores Jonathan Ames' perspective on award shows like the Golden Globes, emphasizing their shift from artistic celebration to commercial success.
Ames discusses the rise of celebrity food ventures, highlighting concerns about their impact on local businesses and community support.
The conversation delves into mindfulness practices, particularly Buddhist techniques, which serve as tools for emotional regulation and personal growth.
Deep dives
Healthcare Innovations Simplified
The episode highlights the way Amazon One Medical and Amazon Pharmacy aim to streamline the healthcare experience. Traditional healthcare often involves long waits, crowded waiting rooms, and painful pharmacy lines, which can be frustrating for patients. With services like 24/7 virtual visits and prescription deliveries to one’s home, Amazon’s offerings seek to alleviate these challenges. This innovative approach represents a shift in how patients can manage their health, prioritizing convenience and accessibility.
Cultural Commentary on Award Shows
A significant discussion revolves around the current state of award shows, particularly the Golden Globes and their perception in Hollywood. The introduction of a scoreboard for movie studios at the awards prompted reflections on how this turns the event into an auction-like atmosphere focused on commercial success rather than celebrating artistic achievements. There's a sense of disillusionment regarding the award show's original intent, suggesting it's more about securing financial backing and less about genuine artistic merit. This has raised concerns that the glamour now overshadows the creativity that initially sparked these celebrations.
Celebrity Ventures and Cultural Impacts
The trend of celebrities launching food businesses, such as Bradley Cooper's cheesesteak venture, raises questions about the impact on smaller establishments. While celebrities can bring attention to certain food trends, there is concern about overshadowing smaller, local businesses that are struggling. These high-profile ventures may draw public interest, but they can also divert resources from entrepreneurs who genuinely need community support. This conversation reflects broader societal tensions surrounding celebrity culture and its consequences for local economies.
A Shift in Wellness Trends
A notable change in societal behaviors regarding wellness and fitness post-COVID is discussed, suggesting that fewer people are partying and more are focusing on physical health. There is a rise in gym memberships and a declining interest in alcohol, which corresponds to a broader desire for healthier lifestyles. Mental health awareness is also tied to this shift, as people seek better physical and psychological well-being. The significance of this transformation highlights how cultural norms are evolving in response to public health concerns.
Buddhist Philosophy and Personal Growth
The conversation touches on Buddhist philosophies, particularly the practices of mindfulness and compassion as tools for emotional regulation. Techniques such as Tonglen, which involves breathing in negative emotions and breathing out compassion, are discussed as methods to alleviate anger and transform it into understanding. This practice encourages not only personal emotional growth but also empathy towards others, including those who may cause frustration. Such discussions offer valuable insights into how to approach personal struggles in a healthier way, emphasizing the impact of mindset on well-being.
Jonathan Ames is a writer from New York, responsible for countless books, some of which have been turned into TV shows like HBO's Bored To Death or the film You Were Never Really Here with Joaquin Phoenix. He's lived quite a life and spoke with us from his home in Los Angeles about The Golden Globes, Kylie Jenner's slice of humble pie, Bradley Cooper's Cheesesteak Factory, summering in Malibu, he recently joined Equinox to swim, how he pronounces the word "Hyperion," his brain can read words backward and he does it throughout the episode, stealing Napkins in Beachwood Canyon, his relationship with tinned fish, his Buddhist-leaning lifestyle, blowing weed smoke into a tequila shot glass and chugging them both, the Russian baths, his celebrity boxing career, he lost too much weight going vegan, working with Greenpeace in Alaska, he was discovered at twenty by photographer Bruce Weber as a collegiate fencer, and he teaches us the three steps to releasing anger.
