JRE #1358 – Sober October 3

This episode of the Joe Rogan podcast features a hilarious discussion between Joe, Ari Shaffir, Bert Kreischer, and Tom Segura as they embark on their third annual Sober October challenge. The podcast explores themes of personal growth, the challenges of sobriety, and the unexpected consequences of trying to live a healthier lifestyle. The conversation takes many unexpected turns, leading to some incredibly funny and memorable moments.

Major Topics and Underlying Themes

1. Joe Rogan’s Helicopter Ride

   1. Joe Rogan details his recent helicopter ride from LAX to Burbank, a decision made to avoid traffic and see his family after a long flight.
   2. The ride cost him $1,000, but Joe insists it was worth it for the convenience and the stunning sunset view.
   3. Joe compares the helicopter trend to the growing popularity of ride-sharing services in New York City.
   4. This topic underscores Joe’s lavish lifestyle and his willingness to prioritize comfort and efficiency.

2. The Debate on Meat Consumption and Environmental Impact

   1. Joe argues that the claim that meat consumption is the primary cause of greenhouse gas emissions is misleading.
   2. He cites studies suggesting that only 9% of greenhouse gases are attributed to agriculture, and less than half of that is from meat.
   3. Joe believes that pollution from vehicles and other sources contributes significantly more to environmental damage.
   4. This conversation highlights the complexities of environmental issues and the importance of considering multiple factors beyond individual dietary choices.

3. Bert Kreischer’s Elk Hunting Experience

   1. Bert shares a story of hunting an elk in Utah, bringing home a massive 800-pound carcass.
   2. Bert describes the process of quartering the elk and transporting it, highlighting the challenges and rewards of hunting.
   3. He jokes about the abundance of meat, showcasing his penchant for a carnivorous diet and his love for wild game.
   4. This section underscores the contrast between the urban and rural lifestyles and the importance of tradition and self-reliance.

4. Bert Kreischer’s Health Journey and Weight Loss

   1. Bert reveals that he has lost 21 pounds in a month, a significant accomplishment attributed to his Sober October commitment.
   2. He explains that his doctor diagnosed him with a fatty liver, prompting him to make drastic changes to his diet and lifestyle.
   3. Bert emphasizes the importance of avoiding alcohol, sugars, and processed foods, emphasizing the health benefits of a clean diet.
   4. This segment highlights the personal impact of health concerns and the power of commitment to achieving personal goals.

5. Ari Shaffir’s Shocking Molly Incident

   1. Ari reveals that he secretly slipped Bert Molly, a party drug, while Bert was trying to stay sober for Sober October.
   2. The incident caused Bert to experience severe panic attacks and other adverse effects, making for a chaotic and uncomfortable situation.
   3. Ari justifies his actions by claiming he wanted to “punish” Bert for his sobriety and that it was a “fun party drug.”
   4. This topic is highly provocative and controversial, sparking debate about the ethics of drug use, the boundaries of friendship, and the potential dangers of intoxication.

6. The Aftermath of Bert’s Molly Experience

   1. Bert describes the intense panic attacks he experienced after ingesting Molly, revealing his anxieties and fears.
   2. The incident led to a series of events, including a visit from Joe Diaz, and a frantic trip to a store to calm down.
   3. Bert’s experience underscores the potentially harmful effects of drugs, especially when mixed with preexisting health conditions.
   4. The conversation raises questions about the responsible use of drugs and the need for informed decision-making.

7. The Debate about Spiking Drinks

   1. The conversation turns to the topic of spiking drinks, with Ari defending his actions as “goofs” and Joe questioning the ethical implications.
   2. The discussion highlights the different perspectives on spiking drinks, emphasizing the potential for harm and the importance of consent.
   3. The conversation touches on the sensitive topic of sexual assault and the dangers of intoxication.
   4. This section sparks a necessary conversation about the potential consequences of reckless behavior and the need for responsible social interaction.

8. The Importance of Sleep

   1. Joe Rogan passionately advocates for the importance of sleep, citing research that links poor sleep to increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
   2. He recommends using a sleep tracker to monitor sleep patterns and encourages everyone to prioritize sleep hygiene.
   3. The discussion emphasizes the crucial role sleep plays in overall health and well-being.
   4. This segment raises awareness about the importance of sleep and its impact on cognitive function and physical health.

9. The Impact of Social Media on Comedy and Career

   1. Bert Kreischer laments the negative effects of social media on comedy, specifically the rise of hateful comments and online harassment.
   2. He highlights the challenges of managing online negativity and the difficulty of separating fans from trolls.
   3. Bert discusses the impact of social media on his career and the challenges of navigating online interactions.
   4. This topic underscores the growing influence of social media on contemporary culture and the negative consequences of online anonymity and harassment.

10. The Caitlyn Jenner Controversy

    1. Joe Rogan expresses skepticism about Caitlyn Jenner’s public persona and her achievements.
    2. He critiques Jenner’s perceived lack of depth and questions her motivations for transitioning.
    3. The discussion touches on the complexities of gender identity and the potential for exploitation within the transgender community.
    4. This segment raises critical questions about the media portrayal of transgender individuals and the importance of nuanced discussions surrounding gender identity.

11. Social Media and the Rise of “Burner Accounts”

    1. Joe and the other podcasters discuss the phenomenon of “burner accounts,” where people create fake online personas to engage in harassment or defend themselves.
    2. They criticize the sociopathic behavior of celebrities who use burner accounts to manipulate public opinion and engage in online conflict.
    3. This conversation highlights the ethical dilemmas of online anonymity and the potential for abuse when individuals hide behind fake identities.
    4. The discussion sparks a debate about the responsible use of social media and the need for transparency and accountability in online interactions.

12. The Impeachment of Donald Trump

    1. Joe Rogan delves into the ongoing political drama surrounding the impeachment of Donald Trump and his interactions with foreign leaders.
    2. He discusses the public’s perception of Trump and his actions, questioning whether the impeachment is justified and what the potential consequences might be.
    3. The conversation touches on the complexities of political polarization and the increasing distrust in government institutions.
    4. This segment offers a unique perspective on current events, challenging viewers to consider multiple perspectives and engage in critical thinking.

13. The Potential of Celebrities in Politics

    1. The podcasters explore the potential of celebrities running for office, specifically referencing The Rock and Oprah Winfrey.
    2. They debate whether celebrities could be effective leaders and whether their popularity would translate into success in politics.
    3. This conversation raises questions about the role of celebrity culture in society and the potential for celebrities to influence political discourse.
    4. This section prompts a discussion about the qualities of good leadership and whether celebrity status is a suitable qualification for political office.

14. The Importance of Physical Exercise

    1. Joe Rogan emphasizes the benefits of physical exercise, citing personal experiences and scientific evidence.
    2. He discusses the impact of exercise on mental clarity, stress reduction, and overall health.
    3. Joe encourages everyone to find forms of exercise they enjoy and make it a regular part of their routine.
    4. This segment highlights the importance of physical activity and its impact on mental and physical well-being.

15. The Challenges of Sober October and the Evolution of the Challenge

    1. The podcasters discuss the challenges and successes of their Sober October challenge, reflecting on their personal experiences and the evolving nature of the challenge.
    2. They decide to focus on individual goals and self-improvement rather than competitive elements, emphasizing the importance of personal growth.
    3. The discussion highlights the importance of camaraderie and the power of shared goals in achieving personal objectives.
    4. This section emphasizes the importance of personal well-being and the need to prioritize individual needs and desires.

16. The Importance of Trying New Things

    1. The podcasters encourage everyone to step outside their comfort zones and try new activities, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and exploration.
    2. They discuss the benefits of challenging oneself, whether it be through physical activity, mental exercises, or creative pursuits.
    3. The conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning and the joy of discovering new passions and talents.
    4. This segment encourages listeners to embrace new experiences and expand their horizons.

17. The Power of Community and Shared Experiences

    1. The podcasters reflect on the importance of community and shared experiences, highlighting the role of friendship in their personal journeys.
    2. They discuss the benefits of having close-knit friends who support and challenge them, emphasizing the importance of healthy relationships.
    3. The conversation underscores the positive impact of shared goals and the power of camaraderie in overcoming obstacles.
    4. This segment emphasizes the value of human connection and the role of friendship in personal growth and well-being.

18. The Unexpected Consequences of Good Intentions

    1. The podcasters discuss the unexpected consequences of their Sober October challenge, specifically Ari’s impulsive decision to slip Bert Molly.
    2. They reflect on the importance of considering the potential impact of their actions and the need for thoughtful decision-making.
    3. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy and the potential for unintended consequences when acting without careful consideration.
    4. This section underscores the importance of responsible behavior and the need to consider the well-being of others.

Memorable Quotes

• “I rented a helicopter last night. 10 minutes. It was nice. And it was at sunset. It was beautiful.” – Joe Rogan, highlighting his luxurious lifestyle and penchant for convenience.
• “You don’t give up Molly. You’re only giving up alcohol.” – Ari Shaffir, justifying his decision to slip Bert Molly, setting the stage for a chaotic and humorous turn of events.
• “I don’t think it’s fucking crazy that you would do that? A bit. Yeah. You’re not doing it to, like, a your fucking college roommate.” – Joe Rogan, expressing disbelief and questioning the ethics of Ari’s actions.
• “I’m gonna have to do 2 classes a day for the whole month. There’ll be no time. You would never be able to do it.” – Bert Kreischer, reacting with disbelief to the challenge of adding a class for every drink consumed.
• “It’s a game for him, you know. I think he enjoys it.” – Joe Rogan, discussing Donald Trump’s apparent enjoyment of political controversy.