Trevor Noah | Blocks Podcast w/ Neal Brennan

Neal Brennan interviews Trevor Noah ('The Daily Show,' 'What Now?,' 'Born a Crime,' 'Where Was I' & more on Netflix) about the things that make him feel lonely, isolated, and like something's wrong - and how he is persevering despite these blocks.
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Subscribe to @trevornoah
Follow What Now? w/ Trevor Noah on Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/122imav...
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00:00 Intro
2:48 Life Defined by Race
4:36 Born a Crime: Growing up in Apartheid South Africa
12:10 Is there a value to trauma?
13:55 Diffusing Conflict & Communication
20:20 Relationship w/ Parents
24:01 Depression & ADHD
30:48 Ketamine Therapy
32:38 Diagnosis vs. Medication
34:50 Romantic Relationships
48:50 Two Racial Topics for Neal’s White Audience
1:00:35 What He Makes of Life Overall
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Follow Neal Brennan: / nealbrennan
/ nealbrennan
/ mrnealbrennan
Watch Neal Brennan: Crazy Good on Netflix: www.netflix.com/title/81728557
Watch Neal Brennan: Blocks on Netflix: www.netflix.com/title/81036234
Theme music by Electric Guest (unreleased).
Edited by Will Hagle
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#podcast #comedy #mentalhealth #standup

[@Musicmelishere]

I am glad I watched this. Did anyone else catch this? Neal says, “your mom was a Black SA and your dad was a Swiss White man.” Trevor says, “they still are.”😂😂😂😂

[@JoE_Songs]

Why do I have the tendency to get exhausted, hearing him talk and been asked - since almost a decade - in almost every interview about apartheid and race? Was is a mistake to name his biography that? Or more than that, to even write a biography with 30-something and that name? yeah, I think he created himself a straightjacket that he is not really able to get out of. I know this is a much to deep reply, but who cares. 😂

[@richardthegingerbo909]

@@JoE_Songs apartheid is a hella exhausting topic

[@Musicmelishere]

@@JoE_Songs 😂😂😂😂 No worries. I write long replies too. Repeating yourself comes with the territory of being liked by many. When you open up, it is only natural for others to want to know more if they like what you showed them. The issue is, many will have their individualized but similar questions concerning what you opened up about, which will cause the person to often find themselves repeating their statements. I deal with this issue when teaching university students, but I am used to it since it comes with the job. Trevor should be used to it by now. If he is not, then I feel sorry for him.

[@joannebaker4925]

​@JoE_Songs Really! You're entitled to your thoughts and beliefs. So, I also have the right to disagree. Some of your comments are so disheartening. He has every right to speak on his life experiences, write about them, and feel the way he feels and you have every right to not comprehend but you can't dismiss it, Hello he lived it. You'sound like you're attempting to diminish his life experience and at the same time denigrate him. This is my take away from your comment. But by all means please feel free to correct me if I misinterpreted your comments in anyway.

[@KnollyJamesandJoJoOreo]

Right! I was like wait they died?? His grandma died not his parents

[@aparnadhanasri]

Trevor never fails to tribute his mom Patrica especially when he knows she is not even going to be listening to these videos. This is what makes him the most humble and genuine human being ❤♥

[@user-bo2yz8ft5e]

Trevor is confused like most biracials. I hope he gets the right psychological help

[@budwithunter]

This was helpful in so many ways: ADHD, relationships, trauma history, cultural heritage... Trevor is a treasure, and so is Neal

[@JaydevRaol]

Yeah, they covered a lot of things that were both meaningful and relatable on some level. Great conversation!

[@susannet.401]

I agree 💯

[@rhiannablumberg4803]

100%

[@debikala]

I didn't realize solving puzzles is a symptom. At 56 I'm having the realization that I have ADHD.

[@user-ds6ov8jr5n]

Grandmothers saved so many remarkable people.

[@ashleyandchloe]

Or create them ❤ shout out gmas

[@will9001asd]

Am I who I am because of all the things that happened to me? Or is who I am, the reason I survived all the things that happened to me. I'm never going to forget this food for thought, thank you so much.

[@p4rt_t1me_g0d]

The simplest answer is both things are simultaneously true. You are the sum of your experiences and your innate personality helps you cope.

[@Jonni1027]

Me too…isn’t that just fascinating?! I’m thinking that who I am/was was the reason I survived.❤

[@a2pet]

Yeah, because nature vs nurture has never been explored.

[@declanpatrickmacmanus5416]

@@a2pet 😅

[@pappaOfswe]

*trigger varning in read more* I have no idea. Children can get raped and turn out to be pedofiles themself or they might be the one who kills the pedofile in prison. Idk wtf the desider is…

[@lorellmothiba444]

Not only is he funny but he is genuinely interesting. Thanks for having him Neal. ❤🌟

[@Vinemaple41]

He's funny? Not in the slightest. Otherwise bro wouldn't lose his job at The Daily Show. His ratings just suck ass lol

[@thulanigule9282]

You are ​salty!!!

[@udontknowmeno]

​@@Vinemaple41he left the daily show on his own account to travel and tour the world with sold out comedy shows.

[@sm44july]

Trevor is verrrrrry introspective, a kind soul deep down you can tell. He thinks a lot, that's how you're able to carry yourself with such a demeanor, and even better that he's funny

[@BecomingThePath]

I love that « collateral damage » wasn’t a good example for Trevor Noah. Such high ethical standards. It is never okay to kill innocents in order to kill a killer. Otherwise we are just as bad as the killer. We are playing God by choosing whose life has value. Great podcast! Great guest and good job with the interview.

[@Kate-ms5js]

Agreed. I adore his ethical standards.

[@marisaveeb]

Trevor, I have had that same thought. Fellow South African, but white, so while I didn't suffer the same as you did, we were dirt poor and had our own issues. The abuse didn't make me who I am, I broke the cycle because I am who I am. But like Bill said, who could I have been without the abuse? I have a 17 year old daughter who reminds me so much of a young me, but I've raised her in a healthy environment and by God this child is going places. How different a life would I have had if I was raised the same? The fact that we are at the mercy of others at our most vulnerable when we are children is something that has always baffled me.

[@sheeshnotnice]

Sending a virtual hug of "ubuntu" to you. Your comment really connected with me. I'm not a parent, but I empathize.

[@mickeyoshea2035]

White folks seem incapable of not centerting themselves. Doesn't matter if the topic is about Black experience of the diaspora that literally does not apply to any non Black person.

[@mickeyoshea2035]

White folks seem incapable of not centering themselves. Even when the topic is about Black experience in the diaspora that can never apply to or even be understood by non Black folks.

[@fluffyclouds555]

Your daughter is fortunate to have you ❤

[@mickeyoshea2035]

As I said, but it was removed before, I'll say it again: White folks seem incapable of not centering themselves. Even and especially when the topic at hand is about the Black diaspora *experience. *An experience to which Whiteness no matter how poor, cannot compare. White folks can become wealthy and no longer be treated as less than. Y'all will never experience the dehumanization that us Black folks experience, which perists even if our economic status climbs the rungs of capitalism.

[@gowithdflo]

"Your tank is always full when nothing is draining it." ...that was a word!!!

[@Nics-D-Ace]

This fanbase is insufferable, you all fancy your self philosophers Stay in your bubble for the sake of us all

[@ebbyc1817]

@@Nics-D-Ace .....and yet, here you are lol

[@fluffyclouds555]

Who’s “us all”? Lol the hate watchers? Enjoy your self imposed suffering I guess

[@TheAkdzyn]

​@@Nics-D-Aceyou sound hurt. Maybe you should go for the interview next so you can discuss what makes you lash out at people for connecting with others.

[@JennyInTheHighCountry]

Trevor’s era at TDS will always be an iconic era to me. He could talk about anything and I’d b intrigued about it. I find his perspectives quite interesting. Great interviewer, great laugh.

[@hayatotheninja]

I would love to just sit and talk with Trevor for hours and hours.

[@JustHereBecause]

Same!!

[@deaconddd]

“if your gonna oppress people at least tell them your oppressing them” Keep it 💯

[@hildachebii4525]

You can't tell them directly of course because you are to benefit.But at least don't block or delete the information from them. Give them a chance. You are also protecting yourself that way for Christ sake 😜😜😜😜

[@waltciii3]

@@hildachebii4525 Thank you oppressor! No I know...

[@andreamontufasable]

As a psychologist/teacher, I’ve learned more from this podcast, Blocks, and comedians about psychology than in school. Great talks!

[@uchechukunwachuku3117]

well this is a problem. i can’t dive into it tho

[@healingartsandstars]

So glad YOU watched it and Groked it. Hope it rubs off on your colleagues. ;)

[@jaxb.8351]

Trevor is one of my favorite entertainers. He’s endlessly relatable. Funny, intelligent. I could listen to him talk for hrs.

[@courto1308]

Trevor just has such a good way of taking abstract concepts we all innately know of/about society and distilling them into understandable metaphors or hypotheticals that also introduce nuance in a way that may alternately resonate strongly or surprise with a new perspective. It's delightful.

[@Yourmission9]

Noah is great at explaining difficult subjects with ease

[@Nine4Gy]

I like how Trevor corrected him to use another example in place of the bombs 💣

[@jeanetterodrigues9088]

Absolutely loved that

[@CraigSmith-qq3sr]

Trevor has one of those voices that you can listen to all day. He's a genuine,great human being 😊

[@dano6306]

Holy smokes that entire section of “Depression & ADHD” stopped me dead in my tracks. I’ve never heard someone put into words SO WELL what it’s like in my head. Goddamn Trevor is a word smith. Sensational conversation, Neil!

[@christinakoch5697]

This episode was fantastic! I got goosebumps when Trevor described his mother's inspiration and sacrifices. He is so relatable, and I'm so glad he did this.

[@jynx2501]

I can't relate to any of his stories. Wooo, White male, genetic lottery!

[@SocialMistica]

Trevor is an amazing human being, and I love the way he sees things! About the transformation of trauma, I’m with him, I think we already are who we are, and we survive just because!

[@steggopotamus]

I agree. We start out strong. Life tests that strength and leaves scars. And then, we have to heal.

[@IzzyHasADHD]

36:12 Felt like that, having a child. You think you're healed until there's a tiny version of you talking back at you 😂 but then you get to see endless love shaping a life without trauma and it's beautiful. As a fellow ADHD brain, diagnosed at 32, I wish you well on your journey, Trevor Noah!

[@chelseap2071]

Just before this time stamp where is telling the story of listening to his friend talk about the buildup in the shower, I literally nearly started crying because it was SUCH a perfect description, plus he gave a very real tip of what a caring friend or family member can do to help us without judgement. Because the most important part of that story is that Trevor was INVESTED in his friend's problem. He CARED. His whole train of thought that followed was literally about trying to figure out what what happening to his friend and how he might help. But 90% of people just see us go down that rabbit hole and immediately judge us and accuse us of not caring. It was so healing to hear that and I want to send the clip to everyone I know.

[@urbntvuk]

Seriously. The most spiritually uplifting, inspiring and motivational conversation I've ever had the pleasure of listening to. Thank you Neal. Thank you Trevor. Ppl like you give me hope that the future my children will experience as adults will actually allow them to thrive.

[@naobolliger9188]

Trevor is deeeeeeeep❤😂 I just admire his intelligence and humor. How interesting human being he is❤😎

[@susannet.401]

Genuinely, this pod/conversation is a therapy session for me.. I feel seen and heard on so many levels, I understand certain things in me better And I know it’s not just me .. Trevor has the ability to break down and understand things in a way nobody can 🙌🏼👏🏼🔥

[@andrewveto]

This was probably the best podcast for Neal.

[@gurp8051]

living with elderly people who loved watching him on the daily show was always interesting because Trevor has a way of word walking around a potentially abrasive topic but then can still rein it back in to the point in a way that still hits but reduces the immediate dissociation i see a lot of older people go into when their world view is challenged and actually keeps them open to rethinking a bit its kind of amazing.

[@TheOldHippiebilly]

What a great comic and wonderful human being. Trevor is not only highly intelligent but also incredibly sensitive and insightful. I totally agree with him that almost all human conflict of ANY kind is rooted in misunderstanding and/or faulty communication. Excellent conversation-- best yet in the Blocks series. ❤

[@Chelts]

The section about communication and dealing with careless communicators is my biggest hurdle in life.

[@mojonichols8826]

It's hard, you need a tribe, I don't have it, but I did, now I have a service dog. Find something.

[@DrewMikeSpoon]

Easily one of the best of the year, & I don’t say that lightly. Everyone knows Trevor’s story to a degree but this opened him up so much more & I just love you both so much. Thank you.

[@gulleysoul187]

I have been watching Blocks for a while now. This one, hands down, is my fave. Trevor hit on a lot of things that resonated with me. I feel like he was reading my journal lol😅.

[@DannetteStrader]

I love Trevor, I love the way he explained politics and then make a joke of it. I have never missed his show when he did the daily show. I call him my grandson. Trevor looks exactly like my grandson, they both have that low voice and smile. I hope one day they can meet.

[@justustiego.tiego.365]

Wow that's pretty sweet!

[@spidrawebster]

This is the best episode of Blocks I've yet seen. Thank you so much for having Trevor and thank you Trevor for being on.

[@CatFish107]

Hoooooooooooly smokes, 34 minutes, and Trevor's explanation of a conversation is exactly the experience. I have had so much trouble in meetings with the same mental process. (Late diagnosis, too)

[@p.l6231]

Trevor is right about South African food. I visited for 2 wks last year in various parts: Johannesburg, Durban, Richard’s Bay, Empageni, St. Lucia.. the cuisine is all over the place from breakfast, lunch and dinner. Usually, food is one of the pillars that defines a place but it was hard to understand the country when it came to the food. I did, however enjoy the people, Zulu culture, the singing and just how beautiful the land is.

[@marquitohartman]

What a wonderful conversation this was. Neal and Trevor are two of the people I most admire in the world. I am currently writing a book about my experience working as a physician in South Africa many years ago and just listening to Trevor brings so many more memories. I wish I could have one day the opportunity to meet him in person.

[@Lifeof728]

I could listen to Trevor speak his mind endlessly

[@apkanalyze3623]

I am going to watch at 0.25 speed, I don’t want this episode to finish

[@MutethyaIVIA-mc4mo]

For anyone who might care for this clarification, 'if you are from Kenya, you are Kenyan-which is a whole lot of ethnicities and tribes, and you don't speak Kenyan but might speak Swahili which is a common unifying language for the 45+ tribes who ideally have their own distint language.'

[@CocoBanks]

Thank you! Came to the comments to say just that!

[@cristymartinez6135]

"Generally...nobody should ever take for granted...to live in a place, where the assumption, is were you belong.........."

[@waakdfms2576]

What a treasure trove the world has in Trevor -- both of you guys are priceless. Love your podcast, Neal. Thanks for the laughs and amazing conversation....keep it going. Peace and love to all...

[@dubravka07]

I love Trevor, obsessed with his brain and humor and read his book years ago several times! Such an intelligent and handsome man! ❤️

[@iamsaaw]

This might be one of the best, if not the best episode you've done so far. The conversation is effortlessly natural, which obviously comes from a pretty deep friendship. Thanks for this one Neal & Trevor.

[@markusvurrgh4549]

Trevor Noah’s communication and honesty makes me feel less broken. Thank you both for sharing the conversation/interaction.

[@sneetchyone]

this was one of the best episodes because of your friendship and how just awesome Trevor is - he's sort of a sage.

[@LaughterSmith]

I'm glad I watched this, as a Comedian, I use to say to myself how could I be depressed, I make others laugh. But if Trevor Noah can be depressed, then anybody can be depressed, then nobody is safe from depression, then that means, DEPRESSION is the BYTCH. Hehe.

[@JustHereBecause]

I love this man. I hope to meet him someday! Trevor you are such a gem to the world! I hope you are well! You are making a difference in this world, I hope you know! ❤

[@franciet99]

This conversation made me feel so very normal. Trevor’s viewpoint on so many topics is so interesting!❤

[@birichinaxox9937]

Trevor is always so interesting to listen too. Completely explained my pet peve of "trauma made me who i/ you are" nope. Different ppl are impacted differently to come out functioning and successfully is are the lucky few. The huge collateral damage done and ppl that have worked hard to be well deserve all the credit not the monsters/ systems that hurt them in the first place.

[@IselaAvila]

I can hear the friendship and how close you two are in the answers. Really wonderful to see so much honesty. Great work Neal! ❤

[@freeflow2]

This is one of the best conversations I have ever witnessed. Thank you both so much.

[@chuckwestworld]

I love Trevor Noah. His book was a fascinating read. He has one of the most unique perspectives I've ever heard. His life story needs to be a documentary.

[@colonialstraits1069]

Trevor nailed his take on ADHD. It’s so hard to get people to truly understand what it’s like.

[@Eirikkanya]

Trevor Noah, the Great Philosopher of the 21st Century. Love you Trev!

[@lalah9481]

What a beautiful mind. You two were growing in front of our eyes-in real time; it takes repetition and reinforcement to have inner growth, wisdom, and peace. Just lovely to experience. Thank you.💖✨💖

[@dm0016]

As a south African fan of Noah I can say this was so enlightening. The last bit about his DNA.. really made me think

[@christinespiers-wy9kr]

My husband and I have been married for 55 years. We are very blessed!❤

[@vanessawhitneypro]

Thoughtful conversation… Thanks Neal and Trevor!

[@rogersockwell]

This ran way deeper than expected and then somehow got to be moving and spiritually uplifting. Full of admiration for both these guys and the show.

[@cirquemedia]

Neal and Trevor's Masterclass on "Traumedy" (Trauma + Comedy).... Eye opening with class and sophistication... Great vid.

[@ramanpost]

Neal, your podcast is the real deal. Super interesting, great questions. Your interviewing skills are genuine, relatable and engaging. Love your podcast.

[@kellikakes81]

17:55 (actually starting a bit before): I've always thought the same re: conflict is a result in 'language' breakdown, which is why I love MBTI (but studying the cognitive functions). It is a framework i can use to better understand and communicate with others. My entire existence -- I believe -- is about understanding people, for whatever reason, so studying how to communicate with different people will always ignite me.

[@Kate-ms5js]

Love

[@ryandstailey]

I like how Trevor says "intentions are important" without literally saying it when he discusses language breakdowns.

[@whizzkid182]

Best blocks to date, Trevor has a way with just how he speaks to draw you in, I really enjoyed this episode, thank you 🙏

[@BlackGirlMarvel]

Trevor Noah speaks and I listen. He always finds a way to explain in such a universal way. He has a way of helping me during random times. God bless him. Thank you.

[@eweisenfeld3070]

wow, the part about being drunk in love and owning that it's not how you usually behave and may not continue to in the future. so well explained.

[@Kate-ms5js]

I will do this in my next relationship! On point! Don’t set them up for unreachable expectations.

[@timothyjohnson6258]

I wish I knew him. I bet I could spend days talking with him. Much admiration and respect for him. Thanks Neal.

[@isophistchambers6694]

Trevor speaking of not knowing how to ask for help has given me a new way to express myself in group and individual. Thank you both

[@voice_of_a_little_lady]

The sourdough analogy was a great one.

[@carsonwieker]

Incredible interview and convo. Much appreciated. Love Trevor and Neal's connection. Cheers!

[@i.am.navkaur]

That sincere praise from Trevor was difficult for Neal to take in the end. You guys are super! Thank you for this podcast.🎉❤

[@BehailuDegaga]

There is a healing process listening to Travor open up himself deeply. I found every topic he discussed very helpful and insightful.

[@bw13579_]

Trevor is full of wisdom, I admire his intelligence 😊

[@fizzy3949]

I love the fact Trevor can express such deep issues in a light hearted manner. It's not about making anyone the enemy but getting those who don't get it to SEE it.

[@JeremyForTheWin]

ADHD is also perfect for comedians because we are lateral and relational thinkers to the point where we notice connections between things that a lot of people don't see.

[@Kzds4909]

That's interesting. I have adhd and that makes a lot sense to me .

[@TheVickster321]

That is so interesting and made sense to me immediately!

[@nathanhickey8932]

We?

[@JeremyForTheWin]

@@nathanhickey8932 yes?

[@nickmessick5471]

This is just entertainment, it's not that deep. Nothing they've said hasn't been said before. They're not philosophical gurus, they're comedians. It's fun to watch tho

[@tereasia]

Loved all of this so much

[@elainebelzDetroit]

Depression's not just sadness. It isn't even primarily sadness. Often it's anhedonia - the inability to feel any emotions. This video is so fantastic, though. I love the deep discussion of so many issues that are both deeply personal and also fairly universal. I'm sure everyone who watches can relate to something and take away something beneficial. Thank you for this.

[@Slicktycoon]

This is pure gold 🔥🔥

[@CatFish107]

This was a very touching conversation. Well done, especially showing how much these two care about each other.

[@monicaena7857]

I've loved so much this conversation, more than all the other ones I,ve heard. So deep and genuine. My prefered part was that where Trevor opens him up to his feelings about love relationship. ❤

[@jedidiahhenry6020]

This has quickly become one of my favorite channels/podcast. Always liked Neal, but this format of interview is genuinely compelling!

[@MattyK73]

I have to be honest. I have been putting off watching this episode because (ashamed of this) I thought I would hear Trevor talk about things that I really would not connect with. Boy, I was wrong! Great interview!

[@bwerto2423]

Perfect episode to bring back the ‘movie of your life’ question….😅 Hundred percent love Trevor

[@saorispencer3392]

This much wisdom at his age is just astonishing. Thank you for sharing your gift. 🙏 ❤

[@jameswalterclark3696]

Loved the podcast and just want to hang a light on how deftly they played off each other. Neal, great choices as an interviewer - when to speak, tone, great prompts - and Trevor, as ever, a very thoughtful and eloquent guest with a very graceful approach. Thanks both (and team) for a great listening experience.

[@smileawhile23]

I could listent to Trevor talk non stop. He is so insightful its crazy.

[@owenmorehart1224]

Great episode. Trevor's humility is inspiring. Great conversation between the two of you.

[@kaihuramercy1673]

I could listen to Trevor Noah for days.. he's brilliant!! Thanks for bringing him on.

[@jacobjohnson8686]

This was a superb-quality interview. Lots of deep topics to give anyone food for deep thought, some genius humor, and Trevor put words to concepts that I've been struggling to express or even understand within myself for a long time. He also explained things from his life experiences that offered insights which others like me probably never would have thought of, deep within our own personal bubbles. I'm surprised it has a slightly higher-than-usual dislike ratio-why would that be??

[@swiftsurerunner]

i've been waiting for the Trevor Noah blocks since it started

[@rethabilephume.5133]

Man, you gotta love this guy. He's such an awesome person. ❤❤

[@boysagainstdepression]

This man really understands humans. Great podcast!!❤

[@kylegordon00]

A diagnosis is significant because it helps to inform the conclusions that you draw about yourself. You've still left the milk out and it still has to be thrown away... but now it's just about the milk, instead of being about the milk AND about how the shame I feel about how inconsiderate I am to deprive my spouse of cereal this morning.

[@JeremyForTheWin]

Difference between guilt and shame. Guilt is about something you did, shame is about who you are

[@noreendunne431]

I love your explanation! 🤩

[@mojonichols8826]

And an asshole smacks you upside the head.... But he's still a person that was probably put through worse. Compassion ❤

[@mojonichols8826]

I try to frame my guilt as regret

[@mojonichols8826]

Similar but regret you can move on from

[@cathypreston1095]

You are the gentle and kind soul - in spite of cruelty, not because of it. Only my perspective. Excellent conversation. Thank you gentlemen.

[@christinespiers-wy9kr]

Of course, I don’t know Trevor personally, but he is a warm, kind and generous man.❤

[@bethelmagic1]

🇿🇦 Proudly South African. Wonderful and inspiring interview! 🇿🇦

[@johnnylonglegs]

I think this was the most honest blocks episode from a guest and relatable for me.

[@Kris10ten10M]

I admire Trevor Noah so much. His life story and perspectives on the world and life are phenomenal.

[@Will-nl6il]

Thoughtful and articulate discussions are the Best.