In this episode English actor and comedian Jeff Leach joins Tom for a dynamic and wide-ranging conversation that takes listeners from the nuances of cultural identity and family influences to the comedic depths of personal anecdotes and societal observations.

The conversation takes an adventurous turn into topics of societal norms, with Jeff candidly sharing his experiences at technology and innovation conferences in Romania, and his personal stories of liberation and exploration.

Jeff and Tom delve into serious topics such as depression, mental health, and the journey toward self-improvement, making this episode a compelling mix of humor, honesty, and philosophical musings. This unfiltered dialogue provides listeners with an insightful look into the challenges and absurdities of modern life, as seen through the eyes of two experienced and thoughtful comedians navigating their personal pasts and futures.

More Jeff https://www.instagram.com/jeffleach/

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

About Smart Camp podcast

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

Join us for Smart Ramble (Tom talks freely), Smart Talk (Tom has a guest), Smart Bestie (Tom & best friend Ashna Rodjan), Smart Books & Movies (Review on Books & Movies).

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 40 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife,is my best friend and she's an essential part of the Rhodesies production team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology and her passion for philosophy and the arts, Ashna shares her unique European perspective.

In this episode of Tom Rhodes Smart Camp, Tom welcomes a special guest—his mother Sara, who is visiting him in LA. It's the once-a-month Smart Books & Movies episode, and they're diving into the lives and legacies of Aretha Franklin and Arnold Schwarzenegger through the lens of literature and documentary.

Starting with Aretha Franklin, Tom recounts his deep appreciation for her music and the impact it has had on him throughout his life. Despite facing challenges, including coming out of a period of depression, Tom finds renewed purpose in his podcast and shares insights into Franklin's struggles and triumphs. He discusses the powerful influence of Franklin's music, touching on her overcoming hardships and drawing strength from her songs.

The conversation shifts to a biography of Franklin, which Tom finds compelling until it delves into her life post-1980s, where his interest wanes. However, the early years of Franklin's career, her groundbreaking albums, and her undeniable talent in transforming the song "Respect" captivate Tom and his mother. They explore Franklin's relationship with her family, her contributions to the civil rights movement, and her encounters with prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Oprah Winfrey.

Tom and his mother also discuss another cultural icon, Arnold Schwarzenegger, through a documentary on Netflix. They admire Schwarzenegger's determination, his journey from Austria to becoming a bodybuilding champion, and his successful transition into acting and politics. The documentary highlights Schwarzenegger's ability to overcome adversity, his impact on environmental policy as the Governor of California, and his personal growth, including acknowledging a child from an extramarital affair.

This episode serves as a rich tapestry of stories about resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of greatness against all odds. Tom and Sara's discussions reflect a deep appreciation for the arts, the complexities of human experiences, and the lessons that can be learned from the lives of those who have left a lasting mark on the world.

Listen to the audio version!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Qyybimu7PbTNWy9Hh4Xjk

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tom-rhodes-smart-camp/id426881872

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

About Smart Camp podcast

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

Join us for Smart Ramble (Tom talks freely), Smart Talk (Tom has a guest), Smart Bestie (Tom & best friend Ashna Rodjan), Smart Books & Movies (Review on Books & Movies).

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 40 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife,is my best friend and she's an essential part of the Rhodesies production team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology and her passion for philosophy and the arts, Ashna shares her unique European perspective.

Dive into the latest Tom Rhodes Smart Camp episode featuring the incredibly resilient and hilariously insightful Natasha Pearl Hansen. Natasha, a comedian and the CEO of My Break-Up Registry, shares her journey from the heart of Wisconsin to the comedy stages of Los Angeles, discussing her personal and professional growth.

Natasha transformed her canceled wedding into a groundbreaking comedy special. On what was supposed to be her wedding day, she recorded and self-produced her first comedy special, "I Was Supposed To Get Married Today...," at the venue she had booked for the event in Madison, Wisconsin, close to where she was raised. Performing a single take of the special in front of a live audience comprised of her family, friends, and would-be wedding guests, she sold out the room and turned the night into a comprehensive "wedding" experience for everyone present.

As the founder of My Break-Up Registry, which she softly launched in 2021 following her canceled wedding comedy special, Natasha shares the highs and lows of starting businesses, pursuing comedy, and the significance of setting and achieving goals. With laughter and honest narratives, she demonstrates how she converts obstacles into opportunities, highlighting the therapeutic nature of comedy and the critical role of resilience.

More Natasha:

https://www.instagram.com/nphcomedy/

https://linktr.ee/NPHcomedy

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

Listen to the audio version!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Qyybimu7PbTNWy9Hh4Xjk

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tom-rhodes-smart-camp/id426881872

Watch the video!

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/kingofhaha

** About Smart Camp podcast**

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 39 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies production team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique European perspective.

In "Mexico Respecto," Tom Rhodes shares his latest adventure in Mexico with a mix of introspection and humor. This episode weaves together tales of adventure, moments of vulnerability, and insights into the human condition, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Mexico.

He delves into his personal journey, exploring Mayan culture, navigating the aftermath of a breakup, and seeking self-discovery. Tom's stories range from humorous misunderstandings and cultural explorations to deep reflections on love, healing, and human connection. Encounters with locals, from a golf pro named Vigo to a potentially dangerous man, highlight the complexities of human interaction and the importance of respect and understanding.

Through his experiences, Tom illustrates the transformative power of travel, the beauty of connecting across languages, and the continuous quest for personal growth and empathy.

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

Watch the video!

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/kingofhaha

** About Smart Camp podcast**

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 39 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies production team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique European perspective.

We dive deep with the hilariously insightful Paul Ogata, a master of punchlines and poignant observations, who's made waves from Las Vegas stages to international comedy festivals. Hosted in the soon-to-be historical backdrop of the Tropicana Las Vegas, this episode is a journey through the intricacies of humor, the evolution of stand-up, and the heartfelt stories behind the laughter.

We share tales from the road, the highs and lows of life as touring comedians, and the bizarre yet fascinating encounters with celebrities, from soccer legends to rock stars, on luxury cruise ships.

We also discuss the representation of Asians in Hollywood and the transformative power of acknowledging one's heritage through humor, the dynamics of social media, the mystery of TikTok's algorithm, and the beauty of finding comedy in everyday life.

More Paul:

https://www.paulogata.com

https://www.instagram.com/paulogata/

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

** About the Podcast **

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 39 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology, and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique psychological perspective.

Step into an episode that's like a well-traveled suitcase—packed with stories, laughter, and a dash of the philosophical, all stamped with the unique humor and wisdom of Tom Rhodes. In this episode, the spotlight shines on Jen Kober, whose incredible resilience and humor light up the conversation.

https://linktr.ee/JenKober

Together, they explore Jen's inspiring rise from facing homelessness to becoming a comedy sensation, sharing anecdotes that range from cleverly resourceful to deeply meaningful.

Jen recounts her early days in Louisiana's comedy scene, revealing how unconventional choices like gym memberships for showers became stepping stones in her career.

These stories, woven with the support of mentors and unexpected life turns, highlight the essence of perseverance and creativity.

The episode delves into themes of personal development, the complexities of substance use, and the importance of connections, making for a heartwarming exchange that's more than just comedy.

It's an invitation to reflect on the beauty of life's journey, underscored by Tom Rhodes' philosophical humor and Jen Kober's indomitable spirit.

Tune in for an unforgettable conversation that merges comedy, life's ups and downs, and the wisdom found in between.

It's not just entertainment; it's a masterclass in embracing life with laughter and authenticity, brought to you by Tom Rhodes and Jen Kober; it's a lesson in living boldly, laughing at the bumps along the way, and always, always keeping it real. Join us for a chat that's as full of soul as it is of humor.

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

** About the Podcast **

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 39 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology, and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique psychological perspective.

Dive into the heart of comedy in this compelling episode, as host Tom Rhodes sits down with the talented Jeffrey Baldinger. This conversation is a deep exploration of the craft of stand-up comedy, influenced by the legendary Rodney Dangerfield.

Jeffrey shares his journey from an academic interest in Jewish humor to becoming a stand-up comedian himself, highlighting the nuances of comedy through the lens of icons like Dangerfield and Larry David.

From personal anecdotes with comedy legends to insights into the evolution of stand-up, this episode is a rich tapestry of laughter, history, and the universal appeal of humor. Join us as we pay homage to the comedic art form that connects us all, one joke at a time.

More Jeffrey https://www.instagram.com/jeffbaldinger

Highlights:

[00:02:00] Jeffrey's Journey into Comedy

• Jeffrey discusses his early fascination with Jewish humor and how writing a college thesis on the subject led him to the stand-up stage.

[00:05:00] The Influence of Rodney Dangerfield and Larry David

• A conversation about the self-deprecating humor of Rodney Dangerfield and the confrontational style of Larry David, illustrating how they transformed personal pain into universal laughter.

[00:10:00] Comedy as a Reflection of Life

• Discussing how stand-up comedy offers a mirror to society, allowing for a collective experience of humor that transcends individual differences.

[00:15:00] Meeting Comedy Legends

• Jeffrey shares memorable encounters with his comedic heroes, offering insight into the camaraderie and mentorship within the comedy community.

[00:20:00] The Evolution of Stand-Up Comedy

• A look at how stand-up has evolved over the years, with a nod to the diversity of voices that enrich the art form today.

[00:25:00] The Craft of Comedy

• Delving into the process of joke writing and performance, highlighting the balance between personal authenticity and audience relatability.

[00:30:00] Advice for Aspiring Comedians

• Jeffrey shares words of wisdom for upcoming comedians, emphasizing the importance of honesty in humor.

[00:35:00] Closing Thoughts

• Reflecting on the power of comedy to bring joy, provoke thought, and foster connection among people from all walks of life.

[00:40:00] End

• Tom thanks Jeffrey for the insightful conversation and reminds listeners to find laughter in the everyday.

End your search for a dose of laughter and insight into the world of comedy by listening to this episode.

Subscribe to our channel for more conversations with the guests who bring joy and reflection into our lives.

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

** About the Podcast **

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 39 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology, and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique psychological perspective.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in comedy, personal stories of resilience, and the art of finding humor in the everyday.

Tune into an insightful conversation with comedian Drake Nelson at the Elk Valley Casino, where laughter meets life's unexpected turns.

This episode packs a punch with Drake's journey from Reno to Crescent City, blending comedy with personal growth and the quirks of transitioning from big city life to the charm of a small town. Hear about the challenges and triumphs of making it in comedy, from poignant family stories to navigating the professional world of laughter, and even a foray into the connection between wrestling and stand-up.

Discover Drake's unique take on life, the comedy scene, and how embracing change can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Topics:

• Drake Nelson's Background: From Reno to Crescent City, tracing his journey and the impact of his move on his comedy career.
• Life in Crescent City: Insights into the small-town vibe, contrasting with the hustle of Southern California.
• Comedy and Professional Wrestling: Exploring the unexpected connections and how both careers have influenced Drake's life.
• Personal Stories: Touching on family moments, particularly moving to support his mother.
• Local Culture and Characters: Discovering the unique inhabitants of Crescent City, including a secretly trans WWII veteran with a love for '40s fashion.
• Challenges of Comedy: The reality of performing in small towns, building a comedy scene, and the dynamics of local entertainment venues.
• Adapting to Change: Embracing life's unexpected turns and finding humor in new beginnings.
• Future Aspirations: Discussing plans for a comedy festival and fostering local talent in Crescent City.

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

** About the Podcast **

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 40 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology, and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique psychological perspective.

Hey, Smart Campers!

Sammy Davis Jr. was a multifaceted entertainer known for his singing, dancing, acting, and impersonations. As a member of the Rat Pack, with Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, he broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. His career spanned Broadway, television, and film, making him a significant figure in American entertainment history. Davis's talents and activism left a lasting impact on the industry, highlighting themes of racial equality and inclusion.

Episode nuggets:

• Sammy Davis Jr. Biography
• Stray Dog (1949 film by Akira Kurosawa)
• Lady Snowblood (1973 Japanese film)
• Dune (2021 film directed by Denis Villeneuve)
• Willy Wonka (2023 film with Timothy Chalamet)
• The Undoing (HBO series with Hugh Grant and Nicole Kidman)
• Wages of Fear (1953 French film by Henri-Georges Clouzot)

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish!

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

** About the Podcast **

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 40 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies production team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique European perspective.

I sit down with Julie Seabaugh, a renowned writer, documentarian, and comedy journalist. We explore entertainment's evolution, with Julie's insightful perspectives on the comedy landscape. Discussions meander from Hollywood tales, including an anecdote about Judd Apatow, to the significance of personal collections and the changing dynamics in comedy. Highlighting the resurgence of memoirs and their impact on comedy, the conversation also teases Julie's upcoming collaborations with comedy legends like Byron Bowers.

This episode stands out as a seamless blend of nostalgia, cultural introspection, and a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling, all shared between two seasoned connoisseurs of the comedic world.

Hooray for humanity!

We're dropping new episodes every Thursday-ish.

Connect!

Be part of the Rhodesies team and get goodies: https://patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp

More Tom https://www.instagram.com/_TomRhodes

More Ashna https://www.instagram.com/ashnarodjan

More Julie https://www.instagram.com/julieseabaugh

Watch the video!

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/kingofhaha

** Video version **

If you'd like to watch the video version of the episode on YouTube.com/kingofhaha, please do us a favor by subscribing to the audio podcast on Spotify / Apple, etc. first! The podcast is a labor of love, and your audio subscription and downloads, or direct support on Patreon.com/tomrhodessmartcamp, provide us with the incentive to pull together and record on a weekly basis beyond our busy schedules. Thanks for being part of the Rhodesies Team!

** About Smart Camp podcast**

Tom Rhodes Smart Camp is a festival of ideas, knowledge, stories, books & adventures.

We share a joke premise weekly, along with stories or what's on our radar, the book of the week, the movie/doc of the week, song of the week, and Good News. Or we have a guest!

Tom

I have been a comedian for more than 39 years. I travel the world, performing comedy. Exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life while doing comedy is at the heart of my journey. I've had my share of experiences, from almost drowning in Thailand to getting maced in Paris, and I had my own sitcom on Comedy Central and a Late Night Talkshow in the Netherlands. Whenever I can, I'll share my adventures and a global perspective with you on this podcast.

Ashna

Ashna, Dutch artist, photographer, and my ex-wife, isn't just my best friend; she's an essential part of the Rhodesies production team. We've traveled the world together for 8 years. With her background in cognitive psychology and her passion for philosophy and all things art, Ashna enriches our conversations, all while bringing a unique European perspective.