JRE #1341 – Steven Rinella

27-Aug-19

#1341 – Steven Rinella

Joe Rogan’s podcast with Steven Rinella dives deep into the world of hunting, nature, and the fascinating intricacies of the human-wildlife relationship. Provocative topics like the ethical considerations of hunting, the impact of human encroachment on natural ecosystems, and the differences between domesticated and wild animals are explored. Underlying themes center around the importance of respecting nature, the value of a strong connection to the outdoors, and the need to balance human progress with the preservation of wildlife.

Topics

1. The “MeatEater” Bourbon:
   • Rinella discusses his new bourbon, “MeatEater,” and the unique flavor profile inspired by elk shank.
   • He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right cut for wild game cooking, highlighting the versatility of shank meat.
   • The limited edition of the bourbon features pairings and recommendations, adding a playful element to the product.
   • The discussion touches on the evolving landscape of alcohol consumption, with Rogan and Rinella sharing their personal experiences and perspectives on moderation and responsible drinking.
2. The Sentinel Island Mystery:
   • Rogan and Rinella delve into the enigmatic story of North Sentinel Island and its uncontacted inhabitants.
   • They discuss the history of the island, including the tragic death of an American missionary who attempted contact.
   • The conversation highlights the ethical complexities of engaging with uncontacted peoples, questioning the potential consequences of interference.
   • The topic delves into the controversial legacy of early explorers who sought to measure and study the islanders’ physical attributes, particularly their sexual organs.
3. Life Among Indigenous Tribes:
   • Rinella shares anecdotes from his experiences living with indigenous tribes in South America, showcasing their unique lifestyles and deep connection to nature.
   • He describes the fascinating blending of traditional hunting and gathering practices with modern technology, illustrating the resilience and adaptability of these cultures.
   • The conversation touches on the impact of modernization on traditional ways of life, highlighting the challenges faced by indigenous communities.
   • The fascinating story of a shaman who locks packaries (a type of wild pig) inside a mountain is told, providing insight into the spiritual beliefs and practices of these tribes.
4. The Importance of Understanding Wild Animals:
   • Rinella passionately argues for a deeper understanding of wild animals, emphasizing the disconnect between those who live in urban environments and those who are more familiar with nature.
   • He highlights the dangers of anthropomorphizing domesticated animals, suggesting that people often fail to appreciate the true nature of wild creatures.
   • The conversation delves into the ethics of hunting and its role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
   • Rinella shares his personal experiences with wildlife, describing the awe and respect he feels when encountering animals in their natural habitat.
5. The Controversy of Wildlife Management:
   • The podcast explores the contentious debate surrounding wildlife management practices, particularly in national parks where human presence can disrupt the natural order.
   • Rinella raises concerns about the habituation of animals to human presence, arguing that it can lead to a loss of natural instincts and potentially endanger both animals and humans.
   • The discussion touches on the ethical considerations of hunting in national parks, highlighting the complex challenges of managing both human recreation and wildlife conservation.
   • Rinella shares his perspective on the importance of maintaining a healthy respect for wild animals, emphasizing the need for a balance between human interaction and the preservation of their natural behaviors.
6. The Allure and Ethics of Hunting:
   • Rinella delves into the complex world of hunting, exploring the ethical considerations, the emotional connection to nature, and the importance of understanding the animals being hunted.
   • He discusses the controversial practice of hunting animals wearing collars, highlighting the ethical dilemma of respecting scientific research while recognizing the animal’s wild nature.
   • The conversation touches on the history of duck banding and its role in scientific understanding of migration patterns.
   • Rinella expresses his personal perspective on hunting, emphasizing the importance of respecting the animals and acknowledging the sadness associated with taking a life.
7. The Impact of Non-Native Species:
   • The podcast examines the challenges posed by non-native species, highlighting the unique complexities of ecosystems like Hawaii, where introduced animals have disrupted the balance of nature.
   • Rinella explores the ethical and practical dilemmas of managing non-native populations, touching on the controversial issue of eradication.
   • The conversation delves into the perspectives of indigenous communities who have a long history with these non-native species, questioning the rationale behind their removal.
   • Rinella highlights the complexities of conservation efforts, recognizing the need to balance scientific knowledge with cultural and historical perspectives.
8. The Evolution of Shark Hunting:
   • The podcast discusses the evolution of shark hunting, tracing its history from a practice driven by fear and resource utilization to a more nuanced approach centered on conservation and ethical considerations.
   • Rinella recounts a personal experience with shark fin soup, highlighting the cultural and economic factors that have driven the practice.
   • The conversation addresses the ethical concerns surrounding shark finning, emphasizing the impact on shark populations and the importance of sustainable practices.
   • The topic also touches on the cultural shift in attitudes towards sharks, from a time when they were seen as dangerous predators to a growing appreciation for their ecological importance.
9. The Importance of Leisure and Mental Well-being:
   • Rogan and Rinella explore the importance of leisure time and its impact on mental health and creativity.
   • They discuss the concept of a “mental diet,” suggesting that our thoughts and experiences shape our well-being and productivity.
   • The conversation touches on the importance of sleep and its impact on physical and mental health.
   • Rinella shares personal anecdotes about the power of mindfulness and the need to prioritize self-care for both physical and mental well-being.
10. The Challenges of Aging and Mortality:
    • Rogan and Rinella grapple with the realities of aging, discussing the physical and mental changes that come with time.
    • They share personal experiences with declining eyesight and other age-related issues, highlighting the importance of acceptance and finding humor in the process.
    • The conversation delves into the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and finding joy in life’s journey, even in the face of physical limitations.
    • The topic touches on the complexities of mortality, exploring the different ways individuals approach their own finitude.
11. The Power of Positive Thinking:
    • Rinella and Rogan discuss the benefits of positive thinking, exploring the concept of “manifestation” and how our mental state can influence our outcomes.
    • They debate the role of negativity in life, questioning whether it can be overcome with a positive outlook or if it can be a source of motivation and growth.
    • The conversation touches on the importance of gratitude and appreciating the good things in life.
    • Rinella shares his personal perspective on maintaining a positive mindset and the importance of finding joy in the present moment.
12. The American Dream and the Importance of Hard Work:
    • The podcast explores the concept of the American Dream, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that come with living in America.
    • Rinella and Rogan discuss the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.
    • The conversation touches on the value of perseverance, highlighting the importance of overcoming obstacles and pursuing one’s passions.
    • Rinella shares his own journey of success, emphasizing the role of determination and a willingness to take risks in achieving one’s goals.
13. The Importance of Community and Tribe:
    • Rogan and Rinella emphasize the importance of community and having a strong network of friends and supporters.
    • They discuss the role of tribe in providing support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
    • The conversation touches on the value of loyalty and the importance of protecting one’s community from harmful influences.
    • Rinella shares his own experiences with building a strong community, highlighting the importance of surrounding oneself with positive and supportive individuals.
14. The Complexities of Human Nature:
    • The podcast explores the complexities of human nature, highlighting the good and bad qualities that exist within us all.
    • Rinella and Rogan discuss the potential for both great kindness and great cruelty, recognizing that even those who achieve great success may have flaws and shortcomings.
    • The conversation touches on the importance of self-awareness and understanding our own motivations and behaviors.
    • Rinella emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion in navigating the complexities of human relationships.
15. The Power of Comedy:
    • Rogan and Rinella celebrate the power of comedy, discussing the art form’s ability to challenge societal norms, provoke laughter, and provide a platform for exploring difficult topics.
    • They discuss the different styles of comedy, highlighting the appeal of dark humor and the unique perspective offered by comedians who come from a place of strength.
    • The conversation touches on the importance of finding humor in unexpected places and the role of laughter in navigating life’s challenges.
    • Rinella expresses his admiration for Rogan’s comedic talents and the impact of his podcast in creating a platform for insightful and entertaining conversations.
16. The Importance of Authenticity:
    • The podcast highlights the importance of authenticity in both personal and professional life.
    • Rinella and Rogan discuss the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of societal pressures.
    • The conversation touches on the need to be honest and transparent with oneself and others.
    • Rinella emphasizes the importance of living a life that is aligned with one’s values and beliefs.

Memorable Quotes

1. “Most people have no idea what it’s like to be around actual wildlife. To sneak up to them. No. Most people have no idea about their sense of smell like to see an animal win you and then just fucking bounce.” – Rinella emphasizes the profound difference between experiencing wildlife firsthand and observing it through a screen.
2. “They’re not wild animals. It’s not. It has it almost has less to do with how they’re raised and more to do with their ancestors. Like, their their biology has changed. They’ve literally been bred to something different. Thera fucking science project.” – Rinella draws a clear distinction between domesticated animals and their wild counterparts.
3. “I think that there’s developed a, like, a a pretty big cultural division between people who a pretty big cultural division between people who kinda like live around and work around and deal with animals and people who view them or think of them as very other.” – Rinella acknowledges the growing disconnect between those who are familiar with wildlife and those who are not.
4. “It’s like it’s like in some ways, mundus and shark hunting was symptomatic of declining fisheries.” – Rinella suggests that the rise of shark hunting in the 1970s was a consequence of overfishing and the need to find alternative sources of income.
5. “It’s very encouraging. And are you are you Bernie Sanders, man? He’s a nice guy. You know, III like some of his ideas. I do not have a problem with giving up more of my money. As a a person who’s made a lot of money, if I know that it’s gonna benefit the greater good of mankind in a in a You don’t wanna see it squander.” – Rogan and Rinella acknowledge the complexities of political ideologies and the importance of finding common ground on issues that affect the greater good.