#660 - Nate Bargatze

Theo Von welcomes comedian Nate Bargatze to discuss his upcoming movie, 'The Breadwinner', and his plans to build an amusement park in Nashville. They also riff on the struggles of early morning meetings, transitioning into morning people, and reminisce about the classic Spike TV era.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze reminisce about the era of Spike TV, discussing its lineup of shows like Blue Mountain State and how it helped mainstream the UFC. They also talk about the lack of structure in a comedian's life when working for themselves, noting the difficulty of being your own boss and the lack of an authority figure to quit to.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze discuss the reclusive nature of actor Daniel Day-Lewis and his film My Left Foot, which Theo initially confuses with Fried Green Tomatoes. They also talk about Nate's upcoming movie Breadwinner and the massive independent success of YouTuber Markiplier's film Iron Lung.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze discuss the experience of going to movie theaters alone and the unspoken rules of theater etiquette, recalling a time they watched a movie together. Theo also shares a humorous story about his failed attempt to book the entertainer Beetlejuice on his podcast.

Nate Bargatze and Theo Von discuss the rise of interactive physical spaces like Netflix Houses, where fans can engage directly with shows like Squid Game and Stranger Things. They emphasize that live, unproduced experiences like stand-up comedy and church sermons will remain highly valued because they cannot be replicated by AI.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze joke about using tickling as an interrogation method. They also reminisce about historical figures like Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone, and joke about fictional and historical crossovers.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze discuss historical frontier figures like Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone, imagining what it was like to be an early explorer. They also joke about Bigfoot hiding in Alaska or Washington, and how he might fit into the Atlanta music scene, before touching on NBA players and Kyrie Irving.

Nate Bargatze and Theo Von discuss bypassing traditional Hollywood distribution by working directly with major theater chains like AMC and Regal to release their comedy specials. Nate also shares his approach to reducing screen time by using an Apple Watch, and Theo brings up Oliver Anthony's ticketing efforts.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze discuss the challenges artists face when trying to bypass major ticketing conglomerates like Ticketmaster. They highlight Oliver Anthony's efforts to book independent venues and Nate's past working at Applebee's where he met his wife.

Nate Bargatze and Theo Von reminisce about their experiences working in and dining at casual restaurants. They discuss the psychology of tipping, the allure of free breadsticks at Olive Garden, and the legendary sweet rolls from O'Charley's.

Nate Bargatze shares details about filming his first movie, which was co-written with Dan Lagana and directed by Eric Appel. He describes the unique experience of shooting at Trilith, a walkable studio town in Georgia owned by Chick-fil-A's Dan Cathy. Nate and Theo discuss the European-style community design and the novelty of running into other actors like Jaleel White.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze discuss the logistics and financial incentives of filming movies and shows in different regions. They highlight how high costs in Los Angeles drive productions to places like London, Ireland, Canada, and Georgia, while discussing Nashville's current lack of infrastructure to support large-scale film crews.

Nate Bargatze discusses his upcoming PG family movie co-starring Mandy Moore and explains his philosophy on clean comedy. He and Theo Von reflect on how working within television boundaries, such as their early days on Comedy Central, can foster greater creativity than having no limits.

Nate Bargatze and Theo Von discuss the challenges and benefits of keeping their comedy clean, their shared love for the UFC, and the commentators and fighters they admire. Nate also shares an update on his upcoming Nateland theme park project.

Nate Bargatze shares details about his ambitious plans to build "Nateland," a proposed $350 million theme park featuring a retro mall and roller coasters. He describes a recent "roller coaster shopping" trip to Hershey Park with Storyland, the design company helping him develop the project. Nate also discusses the extensive economic and feasibility studies underway to show the positive impact the park will bring to Nashville.

Nate Bargatze and Theo Von reminisce about their early working-class jobs, including reading water meters and delivering pizzas. Nate shares his vision for his entertainment venture, Nateland, drawing inspiration from his first job at the former Opryland theme park in Nashville.

Nate Bargatze reflects on his early days working at the former Opryland USA theme park and achieving his dream of headlining Bridgestone Arena. He shares his vision for his production company, Nateland, and his plans to build a Tennessee-themed park that represents Nashville.

Theo and Nate discuss the hygiene of food trucks compared to fast food chains like McDonald's. They also share their thoughts on recent comedy roasts, praising performers like Big Jay Oakerson while addressing Chelsea Handler's criticisms of Shane Gillis and Tony Hinchcliffe.

Nate Bargatze and Theo Von discuss the dynamics of comedy roasts, praising Kevin Hart and Sheryl Underwood for their performances. Theo talks about dealing with public concern over his well-being, which leads to a humorous discussion about playing into those worries. They also joke about Nate's upcoming project, Nate Land, and potential ride ideas.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze brainstorm humorous ride concepts for Nate's proposed theme park, Nate Land, including a spin ride that mimics the effects of Ozempic. Theo also shares a story about attending a funeral gathering where he saw various wrestling legends, including Hulk Hogan, Butterbean, and Vince McMahon.

Theo Von and Nate Bargatze wrap up their conversation, with Theo expressing his appreciation for learning more about Nate's world. Nate reflects on the wild ambition of building his own theme park, Nateland.

Nate Bargatze and Theo Von discuss the challenges of pursuing ambitious new career goals, such as Nate's vision for "Nateland" and potentially building a theme park. They reflect on overcoming self-doubt, dealing with skepticism from friends, and the transition phases in their comedy careers.

Nate Bargatze discusses his ambitious plans to build a full-scale theme park, addressing the skepticism and comparing his drive to that of Walt Disney. He and Theo Von also share their experiences with creative risks, including the vulnerability of watching oneself in a movie premiere.