JRE #1113 – Brian Redban

by

5/8/2018







This episode features comedian Brian Redban, a prominent figure in the Deathsquad podcast network. The conversation ranges across a variety of topics, including the recent earthquake in Hawaii, the questionable status of CBD, Kanye West’s antics, brain damage in athletes, the future of virtual reality, the absurdity of certain scams, and the ongoing struggle against the demonization of sex work. Underlying themes include the dangers of misinformation, the fragility of human perception, the allure of technology and its potential for both good and evil, and the complexities of navigating a world grappling with rapid change.

Major Topics

1. Volcanic Activity in Hawaii

  • The podcast begins with Rogan and Redban discussing the recent volcanic eruption on Hawaii’s Big Island.
  • They highlight the powerful earthquakes that accompanied the eruption, including one registering 6.9 on the Richter scale.
  • The discussion touches upon the danger and unpredictability of living on a volcano, as well as the impact of the eruption on the local community.
  • Rogan, a self-proclaimed conspiracy theorist, connects the volcanic eruption to the mysterious death of journalist Michael Hastings, suggesting a potential link to government interference, though he acknowledges the theory’s dubious nature.

2. The Controversial Status of CBD

  • Rogan and Redban delve into the legal challenges faced by CBD, a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis, despite its growing popularity and perceived health benefits.
  • They criticize the decision to classify CBD as a Schedule 1 drug, arguing that its potential therapeutic uses, particularly for conditions like arthritis, outweigh its risks.
  • They express frustration with the apparent influence of pharmaceutical companies in hindering the widespread availability and acceptance of CBD.
  • Rogan, a strong advocate for CBD, recounts his personal experiences using the compound for pain relief, particularly for tendonitis.

3. Kanye West’s Public Meltdown and Potential Presidency

  • Rogan and Redban discuss Kanye West’s recent public behavior, speculating about possible contributing factors, including the impact of a past car accident, opioid addiction, and mental health struggles.
  • They consider the potential consequences of West’s actions, including his potential presidential campaign, and the complex interplay between fame, mental illness, and public perception.
  • They also explore the broader societal implications of celebrities grappling with mental health challenges in the public eye.
  • The discussion touches upon the phenomenon of brain damage in athletes and the potential for similar issues to arise in individuals who sustain significant head injuries, drawing a comparison to West’s past car accident.

4. The Perils of Head Trauma in Athletes

  • The conversation expands upon the topic of brain damage, focusing on the long-term consequences of repeated head trauma in athletes, particularly in contact sports like boxing and football.
  • They highlight the growing understanding of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and its devastating impact on athletes, citing examples like former NFL player Aaron Hernandez, who suffered from the most severe case of CTE ever recorded in someone his age.
  • They discuss the cumulative nature of brain damage, with repeated impacts causing gradual deterioration over time, and the challenge of identifying and preventing this issue.
  • The conversation underscores the importance of prioritizing athlete safety and the need for greater awareness of the long-term consequences of head trauma, particularly in youth sports.

5. The Evolution and Potential of Virtual Reality

  • Rogan and Redban explore the rapidly evolving landscape of virtual reality (VR) technology, discussing its potential to revolutionize gaming, entertainment, and even therapeutic experiences.
  • They highlight the remarkable advancements in graphics and immersion, as well as the emerging potential for VR to create shared social experiences and virtual worlds.
  • They ponder the potential for VR to become indistinguishable from reality, speculating on a future where virtual experiences could blur the lines between the physical and digital realms.
  • They discuss the ethical implications of VR, particularly the potential for misuse and the need for responsible development and regulation.

6. The Prevalence and Perpetuation of Scams

  • Rogan and Redban dissect various scams and fraudulent practices, including robocalls, online dating schemes, and even the exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking solace and companionship.
  • They express frustration with the ease with which scams proliferate online and the growing sophistication of these fraudulent tactics, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals who may be more susceptible to manipulation.
  • The discussion touches upon the ethical implications of targeting vulnerable individuals with scams, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and vigilance.
  • Rogan shares a personal anecdote about almost falling victim to a scam, highlighting the commonality of these fraudulent attempts and the need for skepticism and critical thinking.

7. The Ongoing Fight for Sex Workers’ Rights

  • Rogan and Redban discuss the ongoing debate surrounding sex work, arguing against its criminalization and advocating for the rights of individuals who choose to engage in it.
  • They challenge the perception of sex work as inherently harmful or exploitative, emphasizing the right of adults to make choices about their bodies and livelihoods, free from undue government interference.
  • They highlight the dangers posed by the criminalization of sex work, such as increased vulnerability to violence and exploitation, and argue for a more compassionate and realistic approach to this issue.
  • They touch upon the hypocrisy of criminalizing certain forms of sexual activity while tolerating others, drawing parallels between the legal treatment of prostitution and other activities that may be considered morally questionable.

8. The Intricacies of Human Perception and the Placebo Effect

  • The conversation delves into the power of human perception and the potential for self-deception, particularly in relation to the placebo effect and the belief in alternative therapies.
  • Rogan recounts his personal experiences with the placebo effect, highlighting how the belief in a treatment’s efficacy can influence its perceived effectiveness, even when the treatment itself lacks scientific validity.
  • He discusses the widespread use of placebo-based therapies, including energy bracelets and crystals, and emphasizes the need for critical thinking and evidence-based approaches to health and wellness.
  • The conversation explores the complex interplay between belief, perception, and physiological responses, suggesting that the mind can play a significant role in shaping our experiences, both positive and negative.

9. The Absurdity of Traditional Belief Systems and the Rise of AI

  • Rogan and Redban engage in a playful yet insightful exploration of traditional belief systems, including religion and the occult, highlighting their often-irrational and contradictory nature.
  • They discuss the evolution of these belief systems over time and the enduring power of faith, even in the face of scientific evidence to the contrary.
  • They speculate on the potential for these belief systems to be challenged by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the increasing ability of machines to mimic human intelligence and consciousness.
  • The conversation explores the philosophical implications of AI, particularly the questions it raises about the nature of consciousness, free will, and the potential for machines to surpass human capabilities.

10. The Future of Technology and the Potential for Transformation

  • Rogan and Redban engage in a wide-ranging discussion about the future of technology, spanning topics like the advancement of smartphones, the potential of AI, and the growing prevalence of VR.
  • They express both excitement and trepidation about the rapid pace of technological progress, acknowledging its transformative potential while also recognizing its potential for unintended consequences.
  • They discuss the potential for technology to both enhance and disrupt our lives, from the convenience of AI assistants to the potential for surveillance and manipulation.
  • The conversation underscores the need for careful consideration of the ethical implications of technology and the importance of ensuring that its development aligns with human values and well-being.

11. The Evolution of Gaming and the Rise of Esports

  • Rogan and Redban discuss the evolution of video games, from early titles like Quake to the complex and immersive experiences of modern VR games.
  • They highlight the increasing sophistication of game design, the rise of esports, and the growing recognition of video games as a legitimate form of entertainment and even competitive sport.
  • They acknowledge the intellectual challenges posed by high-level gaming, particularly in strategy-based titles like Quake, and the dedication required to become a successful esports player.
  • The conversation explores the potential for esports to become a mainstream form of entertainment, akin to traditional sports, and the growing cultural impact of video games.

12. The Impact of Technology on Human Interaction and Social Dynamics

  • Rogan and Redban explore the ways in which technology has altered our social interactions and relationships, particularly the growing reliance on electronic devices for communication and entertainment.
  • They discuss the potential downsides of excessive screen time, such as decreased face-to-face interaction, diminished social skills, and potential negative impacts on mental health.
  • They consider the implications of these trends for future generations, particularly the potential for social isolation, diminished empathy, and a reduced capacity for meaningful human connection.
  • The conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach to technology, emphasizing the importance of fostering healthy social connections and promoting responsible use of digital devices.

13. The Unpredictability of Life and the Nature of Reality

  • The podcast ends with Rogan and Redban reflecting on the nature of reality, the unpredictability of life, and the ongoing pursuit of understanding our place in the universe.
  • They ponder the potential for a simulated reality, the nature of consciousness, and the ever-shifting nature of our perceptions and beliefs.
  • They acknowledge the inherent strangeness and beauty of existence, emphasizing the need to appreciate the present moment and embrace the uncertainties of life.
  • The conversation leaves listeners with a sense of wonder and a lingering sense of the mysteries that continue to surround us, both within our own minds and within the vastness of the cosmos.

Memorable Quotes

  • “They live on a volcano, I mean, it’s one of the reasons why a lot of people don’t wanna live on the big island.” – Rogan emphasizes the inherent risks associated with living on a volcanic island.
  • “This is the the scary thought, but then the other possibilities, Homeboy was losing his mind because of the pressure, which is entirely possible.” – Rogan considers the potential for mental health challenges to contribute to unusual behavior.
  • “The data is out there. You could look at it. Doesn’t work for everybody in terms of like the benefits of it, but you don’t do it over 4 days.” – Rogan advocates for evidence-based approaches to health and well-being.
  • “What a drug people’s love is. What a drug that is? Like, how important it is that people, like, find people that care about them, that like them and care about them.” – Rogan highlights the importance of human connection and the potential for loneliness to drive individuals toward harmful behaviors.
  • “You gotta be responsible for your own actions, especially when it comes to something like that. That’s crazy.” – Rogan expresses frustration with the trend of blaming online platforms for personal choices and behaviors.