Big Jay Oakerson: Escape Tapes | Ari Shaffir's Skeptic Tank Episode 485

Standup comedians and good friends Ari Shaffir and Big Jay Oakerson welcome you to the fire escape for Skeptic Tank Podcast Episode 485! In 2019 Skeptic Tank turned to video episodes, I rented a studio I could not afford, and started a new series called 'The Escape Tapes' where guests would join me outside on the fire escape to shoot the shit. I wanted to test the strength of the fire escape, since safety is my first priority, so I invited my fattest friends over for these, with Big Jay being my first guest, and you guessed it, Bobby Kelly being my second. The fire escape held and a new series was born! And then a bat had sex with that guy and I went to Ecuador. So this is a bit of a throwback treat. Enjoy!
Don't forget to get tickets to see me and Jason on September 21st in Las Vegas! One night only, 2 shows! Get tickets here: vegas.wiseguyscomedy.com/even...
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Listen to Skeptic Tank Episode 485:
• Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
• Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/5OUm...
• RSS: shaffir1.libsyn.com/rss
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CHAPTERS:
00:00:00 - New Pitch
00:00:41 - Ari Shaffir Owns This Song
00:01:22 - Intro
00:16:31 - Skeptic Tank Episode 485 Starts Now!
00:25:49 - Thank You Sponsor!
00:29:10 - Fire Escape
00:45:59 - Ari is a standup comedian
00:47:02 - See Ari on the road!
01:16:45 - This Song Is Owned By Ari Shaffir
01:17:05 - Outro
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👉 For more Ari Shaffir:
Get tickets now for Ari's upcoming shows: www.arishaffir.com/tour
Las Vegas: September 21st (with Big Jay Oakerson!)
Philly: October 20-22
Portland: November 3-5
Dallas: December 1-3
Instagram: / arishaffir
Patreon: / arishaffir
Subscribe to Ari's new travel podcast, You Be Trippin'! sites.libsyn.com/433041
👉 For more Big Jay Oakerson:
Upcoming shows & more: linktr.ee/bigjayoakerson
Instagram: / bigjayoakerson
Twitter: / bigjayoakerson
Subscribe to ‪@PowerfulLOS‬ & The Bonfire! www.bigjaycomedy.com/
👉 Thank you to our sponsor, Freeze Pipe! Use code "ARI" for 10% off your order! Visit thefreezepipe.com/ now!
#bigjayoakerson #arishaffir #skeptictankpodcast
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Editing: Marisa Pellegrino - @marisa_pellegrino
Episode Photoshop: Steve Torelli - @torellipics
Music: Ari Shaffir Owns This Song
Vocals: Raelyn Nelson - www.raelynnelsonband.com/
Written by: Pepper Goins

[@arishaffir]

CHAPTERS: 00:00:00 - New Pitch 00:00:41 - Ari Shaffir Owns This Song 00:01:22 - Intro 00:16:31 - Skeptic Tank Episode 485 Starts Now! 00:25:49 - Thank You Sponsor! 00:29:10 - Fire Escape 00:45:59 - Ari is a standup comedian 00:47:02 - See Ari on the road! 01:16:45 - This Song Is Owned By Ari Shaffir 01:17:05 - Outro

[@roybatty615]

Bad religion

[@mwara2444]

Great guests and scenery, love your comedy and talk.

[@KNITGNAT]

00:09:50 - Ari’s skepticism may not extend to Flat Eartherism, but he does seem to be insinuating that he only believes in 4 out of 7 continents? 42:30 - Big Jay introduces Ari to the concept of gravity. “Because of *gravity!* I never knew…”

[@sweartogod8591]

Hey man, loving the format of the podcast. Really appreciate how you take the time to do an intro and outro.

[@DemocracyFirst2025]

1:00:30 Ari tells on himself as someone that never goes to the gym. I’ve noticed Ari is frequently wrong about so many things, and so confidently too.

[@imnotbenavery9220]

The fact Ari could sit on an episode for two years before releasing it and it be timeless shows how much skill podcasters actually have.

[@MichaelMooneyPopCultureX]

August 2020... They talk about Sixers swept in playoffs and Big Jay pulled off stage. Wonder what other comedy gold Ari is sitting on

[@turnst4152]

Ari & Big Jay...if you know, you know when gold is struck. Comedy gawds

[@primalentity9824]

Ya know what I think you might literally be correct about the gawds part, at least with ari that is. I’ve long believed my hypothesis that ari is the actual second coming of Jesus. I won’t be surprised when the rapture happens and everyone is shocked to realize ari will decide their fate haha. The more you think about it the more it adds up.

[@ptmac333]

@@primalentity9824 I dunno what are the odds that they both would be Jewish

[@iheartwheelies]

Yes lawd

[@robertdale8758]

I would say unhinge your jaw so you can fit both there pricks in your mouth but Jay is the second guy and that boiled peanut will fit anywhere.

[@snavisTM]

Only thing youve been right about your entire life.

[@himmerswag]

"oh yeah, no, I'd make it over. I'd rush over" love you Big Jay

[@nineteen8122]

41:57 I have never, ever, seen Ari speechless. Those few seconds were outstanding!

[@angelotro]

At this point, I started wondering if Ari dosed Jay.

[@Nics-D-Ace]

For those of you who didn't stick around long enough, Joey Derosa was waiting outside for 20min at the buzzer while they podcast

[@brandonlinn1402]

It could be 7000 degrees out with a million percent humidity but one thing will always be certain. Big Jay will have a hoodie on.

[@comedysavedmylife]

Dude two legend on a fire escape, I never know what they are gonna do next

[@Dr650rob]

Jay's a true beast being able to smoke a j and a cig at the same time

[@Chillllllbruh]

Rookie shit

[@KNITGNAT]

At least with that you can hold the joint smoke in without having to hold the cig smoke in as long. In much of Europe they barely even smoke J’s; I have to smuggle weed with me when I visit my Basque friend in Spain because what they call “joints” are actually spliffs composed of 95+% tobacco with crumbled hash spread throughout. So to get high you have to take big rips off what is essentially just this massive unfiltered cigarette. I don’t know how they do it; shit makes me literally puke

[@stope420]

Nah, that’s easy mode. Put the cig in your pinky and light and smoke a bowl.

[@commodorenostrils]

Two fisting without the fingerless gloves. Good bet this only turned into a fire escape podcast because he needs to smoke while he drinks.

[@gabrielmedina2870]

Big Jay and Mark Normand are following the Attell path where they are almost pathologically funny. Ari is alright too 😂

[@moookie4me]

Not only was this taped 2 or 3 years ago, Jay's mentioned crowd-work album: FINALLY MIGHT BE RELEASED IN SPRING 2023 🤞🤞🤞

[@mwara2444]

He's become complacent doing the skanks podcast, hanging. Personally I love the bonfire better. He needs to shake it up I miss comedy albums. We in the middle of the country do not get all the comedians because we're fly over. We need those specials and albums. Comedy is the best form of medicine. Helps me out everyday

[@Flint-Dibble-the-Don]

@@mwara2444 Most standup specials I've watched lately don't hold a candle to the off the cuff stuff on the podcast imo. There are a few exceptions ( Joe List for example) but the majority of them stink. I prefer the way it is. Jay is consistently funny 5 days a week. Good enough for me.

[@steven_dillon]

Good call the no hand tattoos are a give away now

[@roymakescomics]

@@steven_dillon plus the lack of freshly bleached tips

[@moookie4me]

My point wasn't that it's old... the pod was great. I'm making fun that gas digital still hasn't put out his crowd work album after this long.

[@roguemaster5306]

ITS GOTTA BE CALLED ESCAPE POD!

[@boogermcphee2847]

In central PA, I grew up with and was friends with many Big Jays. His template is everywhere here and they’re the most fun to party with.

[@username69420h]

Outdoors, anytime, but especially at the day/night transition time, is the best setting for a video podcast. Please do more podcasts outdoors. They feel alive.

[@DanielZeal]

I fully agree. They're awesome for those of us who have never been to New York.

[@bt9042]

True shit

[@__Gw]

Ari knew what’s up with the different angles of the fire escape

[@mwara2444]

It was pretty beautiful Ari can pick it, and keep it fresh, He's getting better about that

[@scottgregory3028]

needs a light

[@Probasaur]

Looking forward to listening to this one. Ari & Jay are a ruthlessly funny combination.

[@theartofnothing1]

best combo

[@stevenstripes]

Wow, I have to tell you that after watching episode I had to face some hard truths that I already thought I understood and knew…but your persistence to remind the world that Bert Kreischer is fat was just the motivation I needed to stop making excuses and continue to spread this important message.

[@Rogerkonijntje]

preach. Kresher teh fatti bombatti

[@cyanmizu]

Bert is indeed fat. The fattest. He makes Lizzo look thin.

[@zerocool5395]

He's so racist as well.

[@cracklecracklebaybay5612]

I could listen to Ari and Jay just BS all day. 😆

[@undertowpull]

the tilt of that air conditioner had me on the edge of my seat the whole time

[@stope420]

It is WAY more tilted than it needs to be- but a slight tilt is kinda necessary so the condensation runs out the back and bottom and doesn’t flood the unit, freeze the compressor or build up gross fungus.

[@Arthur-ek7nd]

Smart having Big Jay as your first guest to make sure the Fire Escape will hold two people.

[@BrewMonk-se6im]

I got to watch Ari keep it high and tight and now Big Jay?! Needed this today

[@BrewMonk-se6im]

So rad to see big Jay but more importantly I appreciate you holding #BretChrysler accountable for sober October. I feel like one of those rock climbing walls over a pool with the temptation of a swim up bar could be fun. Keep it E'scape Tahnke

[@mwara2444]

Brent Krishna needs to get it together, You don't go on StairMasters with Bud lights to power you through. All machines need overhauls eventually.

[@primalentity9824]

Are you talking about Bryce Christopher?

[@primalentity9824]

*Bruce christginger, stupid auto correct lol.

[@the_cheap_ones]

We need finger dan ing for sober October or running on all fours

[@sk8legendz]

4:30 lmfao *"where before I was going to succeed, instead I continue to tread water"*

[@Swipes4000]

Aris looking around like he’s waiting for someone at the airport 😂

[@mfmerrim]

28:00 Ari that pipe is a bubbler. Remove the slide and pour water down the stem. Fill it half way up. Put the slide bowl back in the stem and there you go. It's made to be used with water.

[@d4nKm3rman]

Lmao giggled when he held it up, and I just saw the dry stem chilling

[@shistyvillain]

Guess he thought it was a "buzzler" 😂

[@Kyle-eu5fp]

Him not having the clip on was stressing me out the whole time

[@bannnnny]

Idk why, but; there’s a real peaceness to watching it slowly fold into night on this one!?

[@rpmcmurphy5482]

Escape Tapes: The Podcast Series Loving it! 🤙 Favorite two people in the universe. 😍

[@PenguinBB87]

This is such a great podcast. Great love it.

[@c2h617]

The glass breaking sound always scares the shit out of me when listening to this at work

[@jamesappleton5063]

I really enjoy watching you guys watching Six and Jump!!!!

[@h4ckh3lp]

47:30 Matt McCusker said it best "You gotta shake this ol' dog to wake 'em up" lol

[@828_Nate]

Thank you guys!!! Loved the podcast!

[@ClipPreview]

Ahhhh That's Refreshing! Thank You!

[@TheSmilingFury]

Okay so I was listening for like three minutes before I looked up and saw “ Tallahassee Ari Shaffir” and I am still laughing. You got me Ari! Hahaha

[@grahameleask9334]

I love these dudes! Two of the funniest comic’s working today 👌🏻

[@sirbarkley714]

Thanks Ari, love this fire escape scene, bring more of the boys out there

[@betparlay69]

This is honestly the coolest podcast ever filmed!

[@josephbisulca7957]

I've never watched this pod on video before, usually just audio. Love the Chungas Revenge in the background Ari

[@andrewtruex]

Love chill pods like this

[@esaimayo2119]

I just watched LOS 8/16/22 and Jay is still giving the best GUNT TALK in all of podcasting

[@darraghhickey7104]

I'd love more of these episodes!! Been low key waiting for another episode like, Quiting smoking is hard. Great episode

[@WalkingPaceWP]

First 20 seconds, I already know this is going to be a banger.

[@delasse3178]

yes! two favs.. cant wait to dive in

[@DrDANKize]

I like this format Ari. keep it going for a little bit. i like the shot above the AC. you should have more scenic shots that show the street and the view.

[@ashleyromero5302]

Creeps will figure out where it is with street shots

[@Downs-Indroam]

@@ashleyromero5302 Yup. Can't trust people these days...

[@imthepopcornman]

Easy enough as it is if someone has spent a decent amount of time in the city.

[@orenthalsimpson]

Bert and Shane should have a drinking contest before October

[@imarider4life1]

ari this was dope keep doin these....big jay is the shit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@gerttherude6366]

those pillows during the add are amazing i need them lol

[@cdtbiohazard]

Sunsets are for the boys! Great episode 10/10

[@keithj73]

Hi Ari High Jay Greatest , stupendous , podcast ever from a fire escape .!!

[@trashpanda7752]

Big Jay is the best!

[@xavier_jallois]

The theme song cracks me up every time

[@csjvs]

Dig the fire escape show

[@torched80]

I was anxious the whole time. I wouldn't wanna sit on a fire escape with a man named Big Jay

[@MrSteven58]

Yo this looks so cool, the way they set it up

[@slightlycrippled2]

hangin wit da boyz ! for sure have had the same types of convos while passing a doobie

[@moralhazard1]

Need these once a year! Have Dave Smith: State of the Union, and Big Jay: State of the Poon-ion! 🤣

[@BlowingByBaskets]

Legends! Love it.

[@GoodYegg]

I wish 6th and Jump kept going...I loved it

[@helen_ofmiami]

@ the fold up 🤣

[@papoosh8840]

big J comes up with the best names. "this is still happening" was his too right...?

[@LiamDTurner]

This was great ...ALSO, as I guy who moved away from the city (for a woman🙄) 10 yrs ago, this made me miss shooting the shit on a balcony with friends and people watching sooo much..Strawng Work...lol..

[@jibba1681]

I’ve only been to nyc once but it was my favorite place in the world.

[@dewaynemaddox1296]

Skeptic tank needs a jacob battat interview 🔥

[@billdauphine951]

Awesome Street views...nice place 👌😎

[@Oldmaninthestream]

Great back drop and camera angles

[@lazylion420]

there should be more sunset podcasts.. great episode, Ari

[@RedHeadedFatBoy]

The intros should never stop

[@GahMorninJulia]

Great episode

[@arvesto]

Love the slow, artistic fade to black

[@TheEricChen]

Went on that Ok Go rabbithole high and it was worth it

[@etsyseller5842]

Love you man

[@bassventura8813]

There is no man cooler than Ari Shaffir.

[@capnpicard6146]

Fire escape show is a vibe.

[@toadwastoid9467]

this is a beautiful episode ari... smart move to say watch on youtube... reminds me of rent the musical... rugged new york rent

[@TheChurchofCacti]

Watching this intro on acid was epic

[@joshrhoden2365]

Ari put some fucking water in the pipe haha

[@toadwastoid9467]

yer the only podcast i enjoy the intros

[@desi4227]

Love You Both!🤗 Ari is reminding me of the lifeguard from caddy shack when the employees use the pool!

[@mwara2444]

Firescape keeping it fresh, with the guest Big Jay. Now will you two put out an album We in the Midwest can't see our favorite comedians like coastals. Or at least some one hour specials.

[@Richard.Yoplait]

Dope ass shit. Good job

[@erickemerick5571]

How about Sydney Gant for Philadelphia. Can't wait to see you live. Keep showing us the world.

[@hydroflows]

I just started the Fire Escape portion of the show and not even two minutes in I'm concerned about Jay's knees. I know it's his dream to be a Gotham Gargoyle but I really hope he sits down and stops crouching at some point. I can feel it in my knees.

[@BlacksburgEV]

I love Escape Tapes but only if it’s Ari and Jay. I fucking would love to see this regularly since they’re both in Nee York

[@rekososa3175]

Funny as f**k!! ☀

[@JohnDoe-cu2hl]

That's a sturdy balcony

[@quistador7]

you being so shocked at him giving away the money :D

[@CanadianOnlooker]

The faceboof listening then get ads thing can be seen easily after you clear history & start from scratch. In the early days I noticed I cleared then i visited motorcycle parts site. Then I looked at apartments, the entire apartment page was covered in motorcycle superstore ads & it was the only ad on every ad space.. now you just talk about it to your friends & you'll both get the shit lol

[@toxikmusic_]

your monologues are getting better ari.

[@p3rpNZ]

Ari you put more into your intro that some have in the whole bloody pod cast haha

[@barrymcokinner2718]

Ari’s page so wild, I just saw a black mamba ad

[@nephewsb]

20:00 in Jay in his head is like... Sit the fuck down bro!!!

[@jujubean1185]

3 things 1. That shirt in the intro/ads/outro is 🔥🔥🔥🔥 (where do I get one) 420. When are you bringing back the Ari Shaffir Grinder?? (I need one of those too) 3. Thanks for giving OKGo the good ol SKEPTIC TANK BUMP! they've been crushing the videos from the beginning... Almost 20 yrs now I think? Anyway HAPPY SHROOMFEST EVERYONE

[@StuntTriple]

I had a great time this weekend.

[@EclecticWizard6]

Escape Tapes is a great name

[@Bigmonto]

It’s so big jay to duel wielding a joint and a cigarette.

[@ryanschmid6064]

Don't even recognize you without the stache now Ari. Loved you on YMH.

[@ryanhaines950]

Big love, Ari. You're the man

[@ryanhaines950]

Homeostasis

[@ZMoreland04]

Big Jay is great... Hope you can get him for two comedians two cigars.

[@ZMoreland04]

And more than just his arm.

[@adamnoturfuknbusiness2367]

those glycol chilled pipes are awesome for like five minutes, they dont really hold longer than ice, maybe if you get them super like dry ice cold but havent tried that

[@audiocash7504]

I'll be in Lisbon for Mushroom fest!!!!

[@johngibson7201]

Love Big Jay, great episode.

[@ricksanchez5696]

*The amount of gel in Jay's hair lmaoo*

[@mattw6705]

Have you seen him with NO gel in his hair? He looks like a chubby scene kid lol