JRE #2038 - Trae Tha Truth

21-Sep-23

Joe Rogan Experience Podcast #2038 – Trae Tha Truth

This podcast features a candid conversation with Trae Tha Truth, a multifaceted artist and community leader. The discussion spans various topics, delving into his journey as a rapper, his philanthropic work, and his personal philosophy. The conversation also tackles issues of drug use, mental health, and the evolution of sports, particularly MMA and boxing.

1. Trae Tha Truth’s Life Philosophy and Hustle

Trae Tha Truth discusses his “work mode” which encompasses his musical career, his community activism, and his role as a father.
He emphasizes the importance of staying sober and “dealing with shit head-on,” attributing his resilience to his personal experiences.
Trae shares his perspective on addiction and the challenges of dealing with pain, highlighting the need for individual strength and understanding.
He champions a “keep it moving” mindset, acknowledging setbacks while pushing forward with purpose.

2. The Controversial Landscape of Drug Use

Trae reveals that he has never smoked or drank, contrasting his lifestyle with the prevalent drug use in his hometown.
He discusses the dangers of street drugs, highlighting the risks associated with inconsistent production and potential contamination.
Trae delves into the legalization debate, acknowledging the uncomfortable truths associated with increased drug use and overdoses while advocating for a more pragmatic approach to drug policy.
The conversation explores the potential for corporate manipulation of legalized drugs, focusing on the potential for patenting and controlling specific strains.

3. Trae Tha Truth’s Remarkable Resilience

Trae recounts his experience of being shot, revealing that he didn’t undergo surgery and eventually removed the bullet himself years later.
He attributes his resilience to his philosophy of “it can’t get no worse than this,” highlighting his ability to endure immense hardship.
The discussion touches on the subjective nature of medical care, emphasizing the importance of finding doctors who genuinely care for their patients.
Trae’s story serves as a testament to the power of human determination and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

4. The Evolution and Intensity of Mixed Martial Arts

Trae and Joe discuss the history of MMA, reflecting on the early days when grappling techniques were novel and often dominated fights.
They highlight the incredible athleticism and skill of fighters like Royce Gracie, who proved that technique could overcome size and strength advantages.
The conversation delves into the increasing sophistication of MMA, highlighting the development of well-rounded fighters who are proficient in striking, grappling, and submission techniques.
They acknowledge the inherent risks associated with MMA, emphasizing the physical and mental toll that fighters endure for their craft.

5. The Future of Sports and Entertainment

Trae and Joe engage in a fascinating discussion about the impact of technology on sports and entertainment, exploring the potential for AI-generated content and the rise of virtual reality.
They discuss the potential for AI to create realistic replicas of athletes and performers, raising questions about the future of authenticity in entertainment.
The conversation delves into the potential for advanced robotics, specifically Elon Musk’s neural link technology, and its implications for human augmentation and the blurring of lines between human and machine.
They contemplate the potential for flying cars and the challenges associated with integrating this technology into existing urban environments.

6. Trae Tha Truth’s Community Involvement and Philanthropy

Trae emphasizes his deep commitment to his community, highlighting his role as a “hometown hero” and his tireless efforts to assist during disasters.
He recounts his work during Hurricane Harvey, showcasing his dedication to helping those in need and demonstrating his genuine concern for his community.
Trae’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond disaster relief, encompassing his Angel by Nature foundation, which provides support to youth in Houston.
The discussion highlights the importance of giving back and making a difference, emphasizing the transformative power of community engagement.

7. The Business of Sports and Entertainment

Trae and Joe discuss the increasing influence of corporate sponsorships and marketing in the world of sports.
They explore the intricacies of sponsorship deals and the delicate balance between promoting products and maintaining authenticity.
The conversation touches on the impact of streaming services on the entertainment industry, highlighting the challenges faced by actors and the potential for changes in the industry.
Trae’s experience as a successful artist and entrepreneur provides valuable insights into the business side of sports and entertainment.

8. Navigating the World of Social Media

Trae discusses his use of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, emphasizing his approach to engaging with his fans and promoting his work.
He acknowledges the challenges of managing online presence, particularly dealing with negative comments and trolls.
The conversation explores the rise of social media bots and the difficulty of distinguishing between real and fake accounts.
Trae shares his insights on the potential for social media algorithms to influence user behavior and potentially manipulate purchasing decisions.

9. Trae Tha Truth’s Musical Journey and Upcoming Album

Trae discusses his musical process, emphasizing the cathartic nature of his music and its ability to convey his emotions and experiences.
He reveals that his upcoming album, “Stuck In Motion,” reflects his personal growth and positive outlook on life.
Trae highlights his creative vision for the album’s visuals, including a short film that will accompany the release.
The conversation showcases his passion for music and his dedication to creating impactful and relatable art.

10. The Enduring Power of Boxing

Trae and Joe reminisce about the golden age of boxing, discussing legendary fighters like Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, and Sugar Ray Robinson.
They analyze the unique styles and abilities of these iconic figures, highlighting the significance of their contributions to the sport.
The conversation explores the evolution of boxing techniques and the impact of technology on the sport.
They express their admiration for the courage and resilience of boxers, acknowledging the physical and mental toll that the sport demands.

11. The Future of Professional Sports

Trae and Joe discuss the recent changes in college athletics, particularly the legalization of athlete compensation.
They explore the arguments for and against athlete compensation, highlighting the economic realities and ethical considerations involved.
The conversation touches on the potential for further changes in the business of sports, particularly the increasing role of streaming services.
They offer insights into the evolving landscape of professional sports, discussing the challenges and opportunities faced by athletes and organizations.

12. The Impact of Disasters and Community Support

Trae discusses the challenges of balancing his career with his community involvement, particularly during times of crisis.
He emphasizes the importance of supporting those affected by disasters and the power of community to overcome hardship.
Trae shares his perspective on the importance of recognizing and celebrating community heroes and those who make a difference in the lives of others.
The conversation highlights the importance of collective action and empathy in navigating challenging times.

13. The Ongoing Evolution of the UFC

Trae and Joe discuss the current state of the UFC, reflecting on the rise of new fighters and the emergence of new divisions.
They analyze the competitive landscape, highlighting the fierce rivalry between top fighters and the unpredictable nature of MMA.
The conversation touches on the potential for future fights, particularly the highly anticipated matchup between Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones.
Trae’s passionate discussion showcases his deep understanding and love for the sport.

14. The Art of Storytelling in Music and Film

Trae discusses his approach to creating music, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling and emotional connection.
He shares his vision for his upcoming album’s visual components, revealing his desire to create a cohesive narrative that transcends traditional music videos.
The conversation explores the potential for music and film to collaborate and create immersive experiences for audiences.
Trae’s artistic vision demonstrates his commitment to pushing boundaries and creating impactful works.

15. Navigating Fame and Dealing with Criticism

Trae discusses the challenges of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of constant scrutiny and criticism.
He shares his strategies for managing negative feedback and the importance of staying focused on his goals.
The conversation touches on the complexities of navigating fame and the importance of remaining grounded and true to oneself.
Trae’s candid discussion offers valuable insights into the emotional toll of public life and the importance of resilience.

16. The Importance of Family and Personal Fulfillment

Trae highlights the importance of family as a source of strength and support.
He discusses his dedication to raising his son and the values he strives to instill.
Trae emphasizes the importance of finding fulfillment in personal pursuits, highlighting his passion for music and community work.
The conversation showcases the importance of balance and purpose in life.

Memorable Quotes:

“Work mode for me is just constantly pushing forward, whether it’s music, helping people, or being a dad.”
“I’ve always been of a protective nature my whole life. I’m always watching the atmosphere and making sure everybody’s straight.”
“I’m stuck in motion. Regardless of what I’m going through, I’m still moving. I’m gonna keep it moving in whichever direction I’m aiming at.”
“I’m excited about my album. It’s gonna be a good vibe. It’s a different kind of energy. It’s about growth and enjoying life.”
“I’m just trying to have fun and live life at this point. That’s what it’s all about, just being creative and enjoying the journey.”

JRE #2038 – Trae Tha Truth