JRE #1230 – Killer Mike

by

23-Jan-19







#1230 – Killer Mike

In this episode, Joe Rogan welcomes the multi-talented Killer Mike, a rapper, actor, and activist. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, exploring Killer Mike’s perspectives on social issues, business ventures, and personal experiences.

Topics Discussed:

1. Killer Mike’s Approach to Health and Wellness:

  • Killer Mike candidly discusses his struggles with weight and unhealthy habits.
  • He emphasizes the importance of discipline and consistency in achieving fitness goals, aiming to shed 100 pounds over 18 months.
  • He shares his love for meat and green vegetables, revealing his unique salad preferences, which include fruits but no dressing.
  • The conversation explores the temptation of unhealthy foods and the impact of sugary drinks, with Killer Mike highlighting the prevalence of cola consumption in his hometown of Atlanta.

2. Killer Mike’s Social Justice Activism:

  • Killer Mike critiques the criminalization of youth gangs, arguing that they often lack opportunities and resources.
  • He discusses his experience with street fraternities and his desire to offer them positive alternatives, such as entrepreneurial ventures.
  • He shares his vision for a “Cripple Colm B Pop” brand, which would provide a structured framework for gang members to channel their entrepreneurial spirit while minimizing criminal activity.
  • He emphasizes the importance of building bridges across cultural and socioeconomic divides to foster empathy and understanding.

3. Killer Mike’s Love of Freedom and the Second Amendment:

  • Killer Mike expresses his strong belief in the Second Amendment and his right to own a gun, especially as an African American.
  • He argues that gun ownership is a vital part of American history and a defense against government tyranny.
  • He critiques the association of gun ownership with right-wing politics and emphasizes the importance of having a nuanced conversation about the issue.
  • He believes that gun safety education and responsible training are crucial for minimizing gun violence and promoting responsible ownership.

4. The Importance of Physical and Mental Training:

  • Killer Mike highlights the benefits of martial arts, particularly for combating bullying and promoting self-confidence.
  • He discusses the importance of training and discipline, both in martial arts and gun ownership.
  • He shares his experience with Shaolin Kung Fu and intermittent fasting, emphasizing the importance of having mentors who inspire healthy habits.
  • The conversation touches on the controversial topic of MMA and the potential dangers of uncontrolled aggression, highlighting the importance of responsible training and respecting opponents.

5. The Rise of Hip Hop and Its Cultural Impact:

  • Killer Mike delves into the origins of hip hop, discussing his own beginnings in the battle rap scene and the development of trap music.
  • He credits figures like Lil Kim for empowering women to embrace their sexuality and individuality.
  • He emphasizes the role of women in hip hop, highlighting the constant interplay between male and female voices and the promotion of equality.
  • Killer Mike acknowledges the significant cultural influence of hip hop, highlighting its global reach and its impact on various genres, including country music.

6. The Business of Music and Management:

  • Killer Mike discusses the challenges of managing artists, particularly those with addictive tendencies, and the stressful nature of the role.
  • He explains the importance of a strong management team in navigating the complexities of the music industry.
  • He shares his personal experience with managers and promoters, highlighting the importance of loyalty and trust.
  • The conversation explores the different paths to success in hip hop, from battle rap to trap music, emphasizing the role of talent, dedication, and support.

7. Killer Mike’s Business Ventures and Entrepreneurial Spirit:

  • Killer Mike discusses his experience as a barbershop owner, revealing the challenges of managing independent contractors and adapting to the business landscape.
  • He shares his vision for expanding his barbershop business into a retail brand, aiming to create a space for men to connect and enjoy a unique experience.
  • He expresses his desire to create a positive and inclusive environment, emphasizing the importance of community and representation.
  • Killer Mike highlights the importance of learning from failure, emphasizing the need to adapt and grow in the business world.

8. The Role of Finance and Investment:

  • Killer Mike discusses his approach to investing, emphasizing the importance of financial security and generational wealth.
  • He shares his experiences with stocks and his interest in cryptocurrency, highlighting the potential for a decentralized economy.
  • He discusses the power of the banking system and the potential for cryptocurrency to disrupt traditional financial structures.
  • Killer Mike emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and responsible financial management, especially for those from working-class backgrounds.

9. Philanthropy and Social Impact:

  • Killer Mike discusses his involvement with Fight for the Forgotten, a charity focused on providing clean water to pygmies in the Congo.
  • He highlights the dedication of Justin Bren, a fighter who lives in the Congo for extended periods, building wells and making a real difference in the lives of the pygmies.
  • The conversation explores the impact of philanthropy and the importance of giving back to those in need.
  • Killer Mike emphasizes the need for more people to get involved in charitable work and make a positive difference in the world.

10. The Power of Icons and Cultural Influence:

  • Killer Mike discusses the enduring legacy of Mike Tyson, highlighting his cultural impact and the importance of understanding his personal history.
  • He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the humanity behind iconic figures and appreciating their evolution and growth.
  • He criticizes the criminalization of marijuana and its impact on individuals like Mike Tyson, who has been penalized for its use despite its growing acceptance.
  • The conversation highlights the paradoxical nature of icons, often portrayed as heroes or villains, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced understanding.

11. The Nature of Truth and Conspiracy Theories:

  • Killer Mike discusses the concept of truth and the manipulation of information, particularly in the context of the media and political discourse.
  • He touches on the topic of conspiracy theories, acknowledging the existence of powerful forces that may conceal information or manipulate events.
  • He discusses the importance of critical thinking and questioning authority, especially in a world where information can be easily manipulated.
  • The conversation highlights the complexities of navigating truth and deception in a world of constant information flow.

12. The Role of Art and Expression:

  • Killer Mike discusses the importance of art as a form of expression and social commentary.
  • He shares his own journey as an artist, emphasizing the power of creativity and the need to push boundaries.
  • He highlights the role of stand-up comedy as a vital form of free speech, emphasizing its ability to challenge norms and provoke thought.
  • The conversation explores the impact of art on society, its ability to inspire, challenge, and unite people.

13. The Future of Humanity and Technological Advancements:

  • Killer Mike discusses the potential for artificial intelligence to surpass human intelligence and the implications for the future of humanity.
  • He expresses concern about the unchecked advancement of technology and its potential for harm.
  • He acknowledges the possibility of a future where humans merge with technology, creating new forms of life and consciousness.
  • The conversation explores the potential for technology to solve global problems but also its capacity to create new challenges and ethical dilemmas.

14. The Imperative for Change:

  • Killer Mike emphasizes the need for systemic change to address issues of poverty, crime, and inequality.
  • He calls for a focus on community rebuilding and providing opportunities for those in marginalized areas.
  • He criticizes the current system of capitalism for its inherent flaws and its tendency to exacerbate inequalities.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of collective action and social responsibility in creating a more just and equitable society.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “I don’t understand how you would ever by taking guns. I mean, you would have to take all the guns away to stop that from happening. But how are you gonna do it? And how are you gonna do that? Yeah. Criminals aren’t gonna give it. Of course, hon. So there’s no way. The regular people should probably not do that either. Yeah. That’s that’s where it gets squirrely. It’s like, how are you gonna get those guns in the criminals? You’re not. You’re not going to. You’re not going to.” – Killer Mike passionately argues against gun control, highlighting the impracticality of disarming criminals.
  • “I want whoever they say that too to say, yeah. And he goes with his wife and they smoke together. I don’t want it to be some secret. I keep I want people to understand that when I want you to be free, I don’t want you to be free to agree to see the world the way I do. I want you to be free to live as you would like to live so long as it doesn’t, a friend, don’t be enough. That’s supposed to be what this is all about. Yeah. It’s supposed to be what this country is all about. That’s what miss Ellis has told me. Yeah. in high school.” – Killer Mike passionately argues for individual liberty, emphasizing the importance of self-expression and living authentically.
  • “If we didn’t support it and fight for it, I’ve been I’ve been an African American for 40, 40 something years now. Right? I have known Democrats primarily my entire life. I’m from the South, in particular, Southeast Alabama, Georgia, Florida. I have never known a black male democrat that was working class. I did not own a weapon. Not that. So I’m gonna follow examples of my grandfather. I’m not gonna listen to the national party in their rhetoric about the army and the population.” – Killer Mike challenges conventional thinking about gun ownership, drawing on his own experiences and family history.
  • “I think, obviously, we could agree that we would all love it if we never needed guns. Yeah. Of course. Yeah. Right? Of course. Yeah. Who wouldn’t? rather not need it than be prepared — Yes. — to not be prepared. Sure. Right. Right. Better to have it not to need it than needed not to have it.” – Killer Mike articulates the rationale behind responsible gun ownership, acknowledging the ideal of a world without guns but emphasizing the need for preparedness.
  • “And I think that there’s money to be made in promoting that versus promoting division and fear. And so absolutely, you should be there is money in helping children be better. Yeah. There there is and there’s and if we’re gonna live in a capitalist system, be a compassionate capitalist and be the best you possibly can because we need more of you. You know?” – Killer Mike emphasizes the potential for social change and positive impact through entrepreneurship and a focus on community development.