JRE #1123 – Kevin Smith

5/30/2018

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Joe Rogan Experience #1123 – Kevin Smith Podcast Topics

This podcast features a lively conversation between Joe Rogan and Kevin Smith, covering a wide range of topics from personal experiences to societal issues and philosophical reflections. The discussion touches on provocative, controversial, and viral themes, showcasing the dynamic and insightful nature of their conversation. Here’s a breakdown of the major topics explored in the episode:

1. The Power of Podcasting: A Medium for Connection and Expression

• Kevin Smith emphasizes the transformative potential of podcasting as a platform for sharing personal stories, perspectives, and ideas.
• He credits podcasting as a catalyst for his career growth, highlighting its ability to connect with audiences in an authentic and intimate way.
• The podcast format encourages raw, unfiltered conversation, providing valuable insights and diverse viewpoints for listeners.
• Smith encourages listeners to embrace the power of their own voice and consider the possibilities of podcasting as a means of expression and connection.

2. The Evolution of Podcasting: From Niche to Mainstream

• The podcasting landscape has shifted significantly since its inception, evolving from a niche medium to a mainstream form of entertainment and information dissemination.
• Smith reflects on the early days of podcasting, referencing influential figures like Adam Corolla and Leo Laporte who helped pave the way for the platform’s popularity.
• He highlights the growing accessibility of podcasting, enabling individuals to create and share their content without traditional gatekeepers, making it a more inclusive platform.
• Smith believes that podcasting will continue to evolve, further democratizing content creation and offering diverse voices a platform to be heard.

3. The Impact of Automation and Artificial Intelligence: A Disruptive Force on the Future of Work

• Smith and Rogan discuss the potential ramifications of automation and AI on the job market, emphasizing the looming threat of displacement for millions of workers.
• They explore the implications of self-driving vehicles, robotics, and AI advancements on traditional employment sectors, highlighting the need for adaptability and skill development in the face of technological disruption.
• The conversation delves into the potential benefits and challenges of universal basic income as a response to the changing landscape of work.
• Smith and Rogan emphasize the importance of proactive planning and education to ensure a smooth transition into a future where automation plays a significant role in shaping industries and employment.

4. The Controversy Surrounding Roseanne Barr: A Case Study in Social Media and Cancel Culture

• Smith shares his perspective on the sudden cancellation of Roseanne Barr’s sitcom, highlighting the swift and impactful nature of social media and cancel culture in today’s society.
• He questions the effectiveness of immediate cancellation as a solution to controversial statements, advocating for a more nuanced approach that considers context, intent, and the potential for rehabilitation.
• Smith raises concerns about the potential for unintended consequences of cancel culture, including job losses and the silencing of diverse voices.
• The conversation delves into the complexities of forgiveness and redemption in the digital age, where controversial statements have lasting implications.

5. The Perils of Ambien: A Look at Medication and Its Effects on Behavior

• Smith discusses the controversial use of Ambien and its potential for causing unexpected and unintended consequences, including altered behavior and memory lapses.
• He shares a personal anecdote about a friend who experienced amnesia while under the influence of Ambien, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the medication.
• The conversation explores the importance of responsible medication use and the need for awareness of potential side effects, especially in the context of social media where impulsive actions can have far-reaching implications.
• Smith highlights the challenges of navigating the complexities of mental health and medication in a society where social media can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.

6. The Power of a Plant-Based Diet: A Health Transformation for Kevin Smith

• Smith recounts his journey to adopting a plant-based diet following a near-fatal heart attack, highlighting the transformative impact it had on his health and well-being.
• He discusses the benefits of plant-based nutrition, including lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Smith emphasizes the importance of finding sustainable and enjoyable ways to embrace a plant-based lifestyle, emphasizing the abundance of delicious vegan options available.
• His personal experience serves as a testament to the power of diet and lifestyle choices in improving overall health and longevity.

7. The Intermittent Fasting Lifestyle: A Regimen for Optimal Health and Well-being

• Smith shares his experience with intermittent fasting, outlining the principles of eating once a day and the benefits it has brought to his health and energy levels.
• He emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s body and understanding its natural hunger signals, advocating for a more mindful approach to eating.
• Smith discusses the potential benefits of intermittent fasting, including improved metabolic function, weight management, and enhanced mental clarity.
• He encourages listeners to explore the possibilities of intermittent fasting as a personalized approach to health and well-being.

8. The Bond Between Humans and Animals: A Deep and Complex Relationship

• Smith and Rogan delve into the unique and multifaceted bond between humans and animals, exploring the joys, challenges, and complexities of shared companionship.
• Smith recounts his experiences with various pets, highlighting the emotional connection he formed with dogs, cats, and even a feral cat he rescued.
• They discuss the responsibilities associated with pet ownership, including the importance of providing proper care, training, and creating a loving and supportive environment for animals.
• Smith emphasizes the humanizing impact of animals on our lives, highlighting their ability to provide unconditional love, companionship, and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

9. The World of Big Cats: A Fascinating Yet Dangerous Encounter

• Smith and Rogan discuss the captivating yet dangerous world of big cats, exploring the allure and risk associated with interacting with these powerful predators.
• Smith shares his fascination with big cats, referencing the story of Melanie Griffith and her experience living with a lion, showcasing the complex relationship that can develop between humans and these majestic animals.
• They discuss the controversial nature of owning and interacting with big cats, highlighting the potential dangers and ethical considerations involved.
• The conversation delves into the importance of responsible wildlife conservation and the need for respect and understanding when interacting with wild animals.

10. The Mysteries of Ancient Civilizations: Challenging Conventional History

• Smith and Rogan explore the ongoing debate surrounding the age and origins of ancient Egyptian structures, specifically the Sphinx, and the potential for rewriting our understanding of history.
• They discuss the theories put forth by Robert Schoch and John Anthony West, who propose that the Sphinx is significantly older than conventional estimations, potentially dating back thousands of years.
• Smith and Rogan explore the implications of this theory on our understanding of ancient civilizations, suggesting that humanity may have achieved greater levels of advancement than previously thought.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of ongoing research and critical thinking when examining historical narratives, encouraging a willingness to challenge established beliefs.

11. The Power of Belief and the Search for Meaning: Exploring Life’s Big Questions

• Smith and Rogan delve into philosophical and spiritual inquiries surrounding the nature of existence, the afterlife, and the search for meaning in a complex universe.
• They discuss the role of faith in shaping our understanding of the world and guiding our actions, acknowledging the diverse perspectives and interpretations that exist.
• Smith shares his personal beliefs about the interconnectedness of all things, highlighting the power of love, empathy, and compassion in navigating life’s challenges.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing wonder, curiosity, and a willingness to explore the unknown in our pursuit of meaning and understanding.

12. The Impact of Near-Death Experiences: A Transformative Shift in Perspective

• Smith recounts his near-death experience following a heart attack, describing the profound shift in perspective it brought to his life.
• He discusses the transformative nature of facing mortality, highlighting the realization that life is precious and finite.
• Smith shares his newfound appreciation for the simple joys of life, emphasizing the importance of living in the present moment and cherishing every experience.
• He encourages listeners to embrace a sense of gratitude and make the most of every day, recognizing that life is a gift.

13. The Importance of Challenging Conventional Wisdom: Embracing Critical Thinking

• Smith and Rogan advocate for critical thinking and a willingness to question established norms and beliefs.
• They highlight the value of seeking out diverse perspectives and engaging in open dialogue to broaden our understanding of the world.
• Smith encourages listeners to be open to new ideas and challenge assumptions, emphasizing the importance of independent thought in navigating a complex and ever-changing world.
• The conversation underscores the power of critical thinking in fostering personal growth, societal progress, and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

14. The Role of Courage in Living a Fulfilling Life: Embracing the Unknown

• Smith emphasizes the role of courage in pursuing one’s passions and embracing new experiences, even when faced with uncertainty or risk.
• He encourages listeners to step outside their comfort zones and challenge themselves to grow, highlighting the importance of taking calculated risks in life.
• Smith believes that courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to act despite it, emphasizing the importance of having a growth mindset and embracing the unknown.
• He suggests that a life lived with courage is a life lived to the fullest, filled with experiences, lessons, and personal growth.

15. The Value of Connection and Shared Experiences: Building Meaningful Relationships

• The podcast highlights the importance of connection and shared experiences in building meaningful relationships and creating a sense of community.
• Smith and Rogan emphasize the power of open and honest communication in strengthening bonds and fostering understanding between individuals.
• They acknowledge the importance of supporting each other through life’s challenges, creating a network of trust and empathy.
• The conversation underscores the value of human connection in creating a sense of belonging, purpose, and shared meaning in life.

5 Memorable Quotes

• “I’m a guy that writes about people shooting bone arrows to stop crimes. They usually have boxing gloves at the end of them and shit like that. Yeah. But that’s good too. Oh, you only mean, I ain’t shit at all. But I I do I do I guess the point is, I know you’re busiest fuck, and I know sometimes I get very busiest fuck. But I think we only don’t do this because of Yeah. How busy we are. Yeah. That’s all it is. My that’s that’s very kind of you say. Like, that’s yes. Yeah. I’ll buy that. No. For me, that’s like just for me for sure. For me, I’m like, fuck. I could do that once a week because I’d walk away. I always walk away with a real, like, I’ve never done cocaine, but I imagine it’s what it’s like to do a line of cocaine off I don’t know, somebody beautiful or something like that. You always walk away with wisdom. And it’s wisdom that even though it’s on a podcast and recorded and there’s a record of, like, well, that’s where you learned those things. I still go out into the world, present them as my own. I don’t think I’m a smart well red purse. Out there, there’s dudes that have done a line of cocaine off someone, and they’re like, what the fuck is he said? I’m never learning anything from that.”
• “If you’re interesting at all, you should do a podcast. Talk, like, it can be a it can be a way to make a living. There’s enough people. Like, this I’m not a 1 of those famine thinkers. I think the opposite. I I’m like, you could do it. Anybody could do it. I’m never like, man, might not be enough for everybody.”
• “The unexamined life is not worth living. Yeah. So it’s easy enough for you to be like, and I don’t care, but most people end it there and they’re goes in a different direction. You’re like, wait. Why don’t I? I didn’t have a clear defense of my actions. Right. The way I thought not, you know, I didn’t do anything. But the way I considered this subject. I didn’t have I didn’t have a real bay. I I was very knee jerk.”
• “This is a company. They’re not normally used to, like, hey, what should we say? To be funny. Like, they have to put out very staid information. And for once, they were like, how about this guys? We say racism isn’t a, you know, a byproduct of It was really well said. It was. It was just well worded. When she sit there and go, like, why didn’t I tweet that? Whoever rode it was pretty whoever rode it rather was pretty slick.”
• “If you know you have to do that and you know there’s the slightest chance that you could become somebody else or say things that are not in your character. Give up your fucking social media man, like, I don’t think she probably realized that she was obviously gonna do that. I think she had tweeted ridiculous shit in the past before, and it flew under the radar. And nobody cared. Right. But it’s it’s a racism thing.”

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