J. Ryan sits down with James Davis and Norm Nixon for a funny, sharp, and refreshingly honest conversation about what it really means to “make it” in today’s world. They talk about how social media isn’t real life, how people confuse online perception with real success, and why Hollywood’s obsession with clout has changed how creators move. From comedy and culture to mental health, money, and maturity, James and Norm break down how they’ve learned to stay grounded in an industry that rewards pretending. It’s laughter, truth, and a little tough love - because somebody had to say it.

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0:00 Intro with James Davis & Norm Nixon

2:20 From Stand-Up to Screen Success

5:42 The Art of Staying Funny & Fresh

9:18 Hollywood Then vs. Now

13:00 Navigating Fame Without Losing Yourself

17:15 What Comedy Teaches About Culture

21:33 Norm on Music, Mentorship & Creativity

26:40 James on Writing, Pressure & Purpose

31:55 The Reality of “Making It” in Hollywood

36:20 Finding Joy Outside the Spotlight

40:10 What’s Next?

Listen on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-next-with-j-ryan/id1810111380

Listen on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2TNrOXssLh3dogtYqG2cqK

More DOPE

Website: https://www.dopemusic.io/prelaunch/

A 7EQUIS Network Show

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https://www.7equis.com

Host: J. Ryan

Producers: J. Ryan & Arvin Lee

Editor: Kevin O’Fee

Executive Producer: Chris Hoyle