JRE #1404 – Bryan Callen

by

21-Dec-19






Joe Rogan Podcast #1404 – Bryan Callen

This podcast dives deep into Bryan Callen’s personal life, his experiences as a stand-up comedian and actor, and his views on health, fitness, and the entertainment industry. Topics range from discussing his health regime to insights on the world of professional wrestling, and even delve into controversial subjects like the ethics of free will and the current state of the entertainment industry. Underlying themes explore the importance of community and human connection, the impact of aging and the quest for self-improvement, and the complexities of navigating an often-uncertain world.

Major Topics

  1. Turmeric and Coffee:
    1. Callen’s unexpected discovery of the “r” in turmeric, highlighting the impact of exposure on personal knowledge.
    2. The humorous anecdote of his “turmeric kid” days, demonstrating how personal experiences shape our perspectives.
    3. His use of turmeric as a part of his health routine, showcasing how cultural traditions can be incorporated into modern life.
    4. The underlying theme of embracing personal quirks and celebrating our individuality.
  2. Age, Health, and Fitness:
    1. Callen’s candid discussion about his aging body and the challenges of maintaining fitness with age.
    2. His commitment to TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) and his views on how it can improve vitality and health.
    3. His detailed description of his health regime, including saunas, intermittent fasting, and specific exercises.
    4. The theme of finding contentment in our later years while striving for continued growth and self-improvement.
  3. Strength Training and Recovery:
    1. Callen’s admiration for Pawel Tatseline and the “strength first” approach to weightlifting, highlighting a different perspective on exercise.
    2. The importance of proper recovery between sets and the concept of “overwhelming” the body by going to failure too often.
    3. Callen’s personal experiences with CrossFit and his acknowledgement of its effectiveness but also potential for injury.
    4. The underlying theme of finding a balance between pushing our limits and ensuring long-term health and fitness.
  4. Bill Goldberg and Professional Wrestling:
    1. Callen’s admiration for Goldberg’s athleticism and his perspective on the brutal nature of professional wrestling.
    2. The respect he has for the dedication and physical toll wrestlers endure, highlighting the often overlooked challenges of the profession.
    3. Goldberg’s unique physique and his ability to perform stunts, showing the importance of dedicated training for maintaining performance.
    4. The theme of appreciating the dedication and discipline required in seemingly unconventional sports.
  5. Physicality in Stand-Up Comedy:
    1. Callen’s humorous anecdote about a wrestling match in jeans, showcasing how physical comedy can be demanding.
    2. The discussion of Chevy Chase’s potential injuries from years of pratfalls, raising questions about the long-term impact of physical comedy.
    3. His own experiences with physical comedy and how it can lead to soreness and even injury, emphasizing the need for proper warm-ups.
    4. The theme of recognizing the physical toll of seemingly light-hearted forms of entertainment.
  6. MMA Scoring and Technique:
    1. Callen’s critique of the current MMA scoring system, highlighting its limitations in accurately reflecting the nuances of a fight.
    2. His suggestion for a more comprehensive scoring system that incorporates a broader understanding of martial arts techniques.
    3. His detailed analysis of Aldo vs. Moraes, offering insights into the specific techniques used by each fighter.
    4. The theme of seeking more sophisticated ways to evaluate complex performances and skills.
  7. Jujitsu and Training with Hegan Machado:
    1. Callen’s fascination with Hegan Machado’s teaching style and his belief in the effectiveness of jujitsu as a martial art.
    2. His humorous anecdote about a heated debate with Rogan about Ashton Kutcher’s jujitsu skills, highlighting the passionate nature of martial arts discussions.
    3. His recognition of the dedication required to master a specific skill like jujitsu, even against individuals with a broader range of skills.
    4. The theme of finding value in specialized training and the importance of continuous learning.
  8. Lomachenko and Professional Boxing:
    1. Callen’s admiration for Lomachenko’s boxing skills and his perspective on the importance of proper warm-up routines for professional athletes.
    2. His anecdote about watching Lomachenko’s methodical warm-up routine, showcasing the contrast between professional and amateur approaches.
    3. Callen’s experience watching Manny Pacquiao warm up, further emphasizing the importance of meticulous preparation.
    4. The theme of recognizing the subtle nuances of professional training and the impact of dedicated preparation.
  9. The Importance of Flexibility:
    1. Callen’s discussion of Diamond Dallas Page and his contributions to the health and well-being of former wrestlers.
    2. Dallas Page’s approach to yoga as a tool for recovery and stabilization, particularly for those with back injuries.
    3. The importance of flexibility and range of motion, especially as we age, highlighting its significance for overall health and longevity.
    4. The theme of seeking alternative approaches to fitness and health that prioritize long-term well-being.
  10. Overpopulation and Sustainability:
    1. Callen’s perspective on the challenges of overpopulation and the need for more sustainable practices.
    2. His discussion of how economic development and career opportunities can lead to lower birth rates.
    3. China’s current struggles with an aging population and its reliance on imported labor, highlighting the complex consequences of population trends.
    4. The theme of exploring solutions to global challenges and the importance of long-term thinking.
  11. The Role of Free Will and Human Agency:
    1. Callen’s reflection on the concept of free will and the potential influence of genetics and past experiences.
    2. His personal experience with stand-up comedy and how it has shaped his health consciousness and self-discipline.
    3. His belief in the importance of personal accountability and the need to challenge our own beliefs.
    4. The theme of navigating the complexities of human nature and finding meaning within our own unique experiences.
  12. The Power of Community:
    1. Callen’s emphasis on the importance of surrounding oneself with positive and supportive individuals.
    2. His belief that the quality of our relationships greatly influences the quality of our lives.
    3. His concern about the loss of community in urbanized societies and the dangers of isolation.
    4. The theme of finding solace and strength in genuine human connection and shared experiences.
  13. The Western World’s Evolution:
    1. Callen’s perspective on the West’s history of imperialism and its ongoing efforts to address past wrongs.
    2. His discussion of the evolving nature of social progress and the challenges of navigating cultural sensitivities.
    3. His critique of excessive wokeness and the dangers of becoming overly reactionary, highlighting the importance of balance and critical thinking.
    4. The theme of acknowledging the West’s flaws while celebrating its capacity for self-reflection and positive change.
  14. The Rise of China and Global Technology:
    1. Callen’s concerns about China’s increasing technological dominance and the potential for its authoritarian practices to spread.
    2. His discussion of Huawei’s rise and the US government’s apprehension about its technology, highlighting the potential for international power shifts.
    3. The ongoing debate surrounding intellectual property theft and the implications for global innovation and competition.
    4. The theme of navigating a complex and interconnected world where technology is shaping geopolitics and international relations.
  15. The Future of Technology and Human Interaction:
    1. Callen’s prediction of a future dominated by augmented reality, with potential implications for human interaction and social dynamics.
    2. His speculation about the potential for social scoring systems, raising concerns about privacy and the erosion of personal freedoms.
    3. His perspective on the inevitable evolution of technology and its impact on our lives.
    4. The theme of embracing the unknowns of the future while grappling with the ethical implications of emerging technologies.
  16. The Impact of Head Injuries on Comedy:
    1. Callen’s discussion of Sam Kinison and Roseanne Barr, both of whom experienced head injuries that impacted their personalities and comedic styles.
    2. His belief that these head injuries contributed to their unique comedic sensibilities and their willingness to push boundaries.
    3. His perspective on the complexities of mental health and how trauma can shape creative expression.
    4. The theme of understanding the human cost of humor and the importance of recognizing the influences behind comedic brilliance.
  17. The Importance of Distrust:
    1. Callen’s assertion that a healthy distrust of authority figures is essential, particularly in a world of increasing surveillance.
    2. His critique of the US government’s conduct in the Afghanistan war, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power and the need for accountability.
    3. His concerns about the potential for widespread surveillance to erode civil liberties and undermine democratic institutions.
    4. The theme of recognizing the inherent limitations of power and the importance of holding those in authority accountable.
  18. The Nature of Art and Creation:
    1. Callen’s exploration of the differences between traditional forms of art and digital creations, highlighting their unique qualities.
    2. His perspective on the captivating nature of both physical and digital art, recognizing their power to engage and inspire.
    3. His discussion of the value of intellectual pursuits and the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding.
    4. The theme of appreciating the diversity of human creativity and acknowledging the impact of both physical and digital art on our lives.
  19. The Significance of Physical Skill:
    1. Callen’s appreciation for physical skills like boxing, jujitsu, and snooker, recognizing their mastery as a form of art.
    2. His critique of the lack of respect for video game skills, highlighting the potential for bias towards traditional forms of athleticism.
    3. His assertion that mastery of physical skills requires dedicated practice, self-discipline, and a deep understanding of the craft.
    4. The theme of celebrating excellence in all forms, regardless of how it is achieved or how it is perceived.
  20. The Power of the Marketplace:
    1. Callen’s perspective on the importance of creative destruction in a free market economy, allowing for innovation and progress.
    2. His discussion of how competition drives technological advancement, highlighting the role of market forces in shaping innovation.
    3. His critique of government-controlled economies and their tendency to stifle innovation and stifle economic growth.
    4. The theme of embracing the competitive spirit of the marketplace and recognizing its role in driving positive change.
  21. The World of Dick Tattoos:
    1. Callen’s humorous exploration of the world of penis tattoos and the various designs people choose.
    2. His fascination with the growing acceptance of body modification, particularly face tattoos, and its potential cultural implications.
    3. His critique of the double standard in society’s acceptance of body modification, highlighting the need for a more inclusive approach.
    4. The theme of challenging traditional norms and embracing individual expression, even when it pushes boundaries.
  22. The Legacy of Sylvester Stallone:
    1. Callen’s admiration for Stallone’s longevity and his continued success in the action genre.
    2. His respect for Stallone’s ability to create iconic characters and his impact on the film industry.
    3. His appreciation for Stallone’s dedication to physical fitness and his commitment to pushing his limits.
    4. The theme of recognizing enduring talent and the lasting impact of creative vision.

Memorable Quotes

  • “My body is betraying me, which is why I’m having my Laird Hamilton super coffee right now.” – Callen humorously acknowledges the challenges of aging while also emphasizing his commitment to finding solutions.
  • “I’m tired. If I look a little vainier and my skin looks a little more flushed, don’t ask questions. Just know that I got a good job to get on the TRT.” – Callen’s honest and humorous approach to TRT, showcasing his desire for improved health and vitality.
  • “He’s got all the personality. So really nice guy. A 100%. Smart, funny. Nice. And smart is with it.” – Callen’s admiration for Bill Goldberg’s character, highlighting his respect for individuals who excel in multiple areas.
  • “That’s a nice trip fight statement. He’s fucking legit as fuck. Oh, no. It’s fucking legit as fuck. I had it in an extra fucking ruin the whole sentence.” – Callen’s enthusiastic and slightly chaotic delivery, showcasing his unique comedic style.
  • “You can’t get stuck in your past because, like, mistakes that you made when you were a child can haunt you deep into adulthood.” – Callen’s insightful observation about the impact of childhood experiences, highlighting the importance of personal growth and self-reflection.