JRE #671 – Brendan Schaub & Bryan Callen

Joe Rogan Podcast #671 – Brendan Schaub & Bryan Callen

This podcast delves into the world of MMA, acting, and comedy with Brendan Schaub and Bryan Callen, hosts of “The Fighter & The Kid” podcast. They discuss a range of topics, from the intricacies of the UFC to the highs and lows of Hollywood, revealing insights into their perspectives on life, work, and the human condition. The conversation is filled with humor, honesty, and thought-provoking discussions on themes like ambition, success, and the consequences of fame.

Major Topics:

• Ryan Seacrest: The Uncanny Valley of Success

  The conversation dives into the enigmatic persona of Ryan Seacrest, a media mogul with an almost inhumanly consistent and nonthreatening presence.

  • Seacrest’s relentless work ethic, exemplified by his 6am to 9am radio show, is discussed.
  • Callen describes Seacrest as a “robot,” devoid of genuine emotion and incapable of deviating from his carefully crafted image.
  • The podcast explores the potential downsides of maintaining a perpetually “on” persona, highlighting the sacrifices made to achieve such success.
  • The discussion touches on the idea of finding a balance between ambition and personal authenticity.

• The Perks and Pitfalls of Being Gay: A Controversial Discussion

  Callen and Schaub discuss the unique dynamics of the gay community, particularly regarding financial freedom and the potential pitfalls of relationships.

  • Callen highlights the disposable income available to gay individuals who don’t have children or wives to support.
  • They explore the dynamic of older, wealthy gay men and their relationships with younger partners, often characterized by financial dependence.
  • The discussion delves into the controversial issue of “clocking in” on a partner, emphasizing the transactional nature of certain relationships.
  • This segment delves into the intersection of personal relationships, power dynamics, and societal expectations.

• The Enigmatic Figure of Merv Griffin: A Legacy of Success and Controversy

  Callen shares anecdotes about his encounter with the late Merv Griffin, a multimillionaire entertainer and media mogul.

  • Griffin’s incredible wealth and diverse artistic talents are highlighted, emphasizing his multifaceted legacy.
  • Callen describes Griffin as “ferociously gay” and reveals a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle he maintained.
  • The discussion touches on the power and influence of established personalities in shaping the entertainment landscape.
  • This segment explores the complexities of wealth, fame, and personal choices.

• The Reality of Acting: A Confining Profession for Free Spirits

  Callen and Schaub share their experiences with the acting industry, expressing the challenges faced by unconventional personalities in a highly collaborative environment.

  • Callen recounts his limited but impactful acting career, highlighting the irony of achieving success with minimal effort.
  • He describes the frustration of being typecast and having to conform to pre-defined roles.
  • The podcast explores the potential mismatch between a free-spirited personality and the demands of Hollywood.
  • This segment delves into the creative limitations and pressures associated with the acting profession.

• The Unsettling Trend of Foot Fetishes: A Provocative Exploration

  Callen and Schaub share personal anecdotes and discuss the prevalence of foot fetishes, exploring the boundaries of sexual preferences.

  • Callen reveals his own discomfort with the concept, highlighting the unconventional nature of the fetish.
  • Schaub shares a story about a former girlfriend who engaged in foot-related activities with a previous partner.
  • The discussion delves into the psychology behind fetishes, questioning what drives these unique desires.
  • This segment tackles a taboo subject with a mix of humor and genuine curiosity.

• The Ethics of Steroid Use in MMA: A Complicated Debate

  Callen and Schaub engage in a spirited debate on the use of steroids in mixed martial arts, exploring the complex ethical and performance-enhancing aspects of the issue.

  • They discuss the recent tightening of testing standards in the UFC, specifically the ban on IV rehydration.
  • The podcast explores the potential consequences of stricter testing, including shorter careers and a possible decline in the quality of competition.
  • Callen and Schaub acknowledge the role of genetic advantages but highlight the prevalence of steroid use to gain an edge in the sport.
  • This segment dives into the gray areas of athletic performance, considering both the ethical implications and the pressure to succeed in a physically demanding sport.

• The Rise of Connor McGregor: A Marketing Mastermind or a Real Threat?

  The podcast dedicates significant time to discussing the meteoric rise of Connor McGregor, exploring his undeniable star power and the UFC’s strategic decisions surrounding his career.

  • Callen and Schaub acknowledge McGregor’s unique talent and undeniable charisma but question the UFC’s decision to match him against Chad Mendes on short notice.
  • They argue that this matchup could potentially expose McGregor’s weaknesses and risk his carefully crafted image.
  • The discussion delves into the business aspects of MMA, highlighting the tension between marketing a star and ensuring fair competition.
  • This segment explores the intersection of entertainment, business, and athletic competition.

• The Reebok Deal: A Controversial Move for Fighters and Fans?

  Callen and Schaub express their disapproval of the UFC’s Reebok deal, arguing that it negatively impacts fighters’ income and creative control.

  • The podcast highlights the financial losses experienced by fighters who were previously able to secure lucrative sponsorship deals.
  • Callen and Schaub argue that the Reebok deal limits fighters’ individuality and creative expression, resulting in generic and uninspired apparel.
  • They suggest alternative revenue streams for fighters, encouraging them to leverage their individual brands and create their own merchandise.
  • This segment tackles a major issue in the MMA world, exposing the complexities of sponsorship, athlete empowerment, and the business of combat sports.

• Domestic Violence in MMA: A Difficult Discussion on Accountability and Second Chances

  The podcast tackles the sensitive issue of domestic violence in MMA, discussing the controversies surrounding Travis Brown’s alleged assault and the UFC’s response.

  • Callen and Schaub express their disgust at the allegations against Brown, acknowledging the severity of the situation.
  • They emphasize the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and discuss the UFC’s decision to suspend Brown.
  • The podcast explores the complexities of public perception, due process, and the challenges of separating personal conduct from professional performance.
  • This segment delves into the ethical considerations of promoting athletes who have been accused of violent behavior.

• The Power of Podcasting: A New Era of Entertainment and Connection

  Callen and Schaub celebrate the rise of podcasting, highlighting the platform’s ability to connect with audiences in an authentic and unfiltered way.

  • They acknowledge the growing popularity of podcasts, attributing it to the direct and uncensored nature of the medium.
  • Callen and Schaub discuss the benefits of podcasting for athletes, allowing them to connect with fans and express their personalities without the restrictions of traditional media.
  • The podcast highlights the power of honest and engaging conversations, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.
  • This segment explores the evolving landscape of entertainment and the potential for podcasting to empower athletes and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

• The UFC 189 Card: A Clash of Titans and Styles

  The conversation shifts to the upcoming UFC 189 card, with Callen and Schaub previewing the highly anticipated matchups.

  • They break down the main event: Connor McGregor vs. Chad Mendes, highlighting the stylistic differences and potential outcomes.
  • The podcast analyzes the co-main event: Robbie Lawler vs. Rory MacDonald, emphasizing the intensity and unpredictability of the matchup.
  • Callen and Schaub discuss other notable fights on the card, expressing their excitement for the high level of competition and the potential for thrilling battles.
  • This segment dives into the world of MMA strategy, showcasing the technical nuances and strategic considerations that make the sport so compelling.

• The IV Ban: A Controversial Decision with Unforeseen Consequences?

  The podcast returns to the topic of the UFC’s IV ban, debating the potential implications for fighter health and the future of the sport.

  • Callen and Schaub question the short-term implementation of the ban, suggesting that fighters may be forced to engage in risky weight cuts without adequate time to adjust.
  • The podcast discusses the potential for increased injuries and brain damage due to dehydration.
  • They acknowledge the need for a clean sport but emphasize the importance of striking a balance between athlete safety and performance enhancement.
  • This segment raises crucial questions about the evolution of MMA and the UFC’s commitment to athlete welfare.

• The Power of Genetics and the Limitations of Training: A Look at Athletic Outliers

  Callen and Schaub explore the fascinating concept of athletic outliers, acknowledging that some individuals possess genetic advantages that make them incredibly gifted.

  • They discuss the examples of Herschel Walker, Bo Jackson, and Mike Tyson, highlighting their exceptional physical capabilities.
  • The podcast delves into the idea that even with the most rigorous training, certain levels of athleticism are inherently determined by genetics.
  • Callen and Schaub discuss the potential for scientific advancements to unlock genetic potential and enhance human performance.
  • This segment explores the intersection of genetics, training, and the potential for human evolution.

• The Future of MMA: A Sport in Transition

  The podcast concludes with reflections on the future of MMA, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities facing the sport.

  • Callen and Schaub discuss the potential impact of stricter drug testing on the long-term health of fighters and the overall trajectory of the sport.
  • They highlight the need for more revenue streams for fighters to ensure their financial security and retirement.
  • The podcast explores the changing dynamics of the sport, recognizing the emergence of new stars and the ongoing struggle for athlete empowerment.
  • This segment provides a thoughtful overview of the current state of MMA, suggesting potential directions for its future growth and development.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Ryan Seacrest is a robot.” – Bryan Callen describes Ryan Seacrest’s unwavering persona, highlighting his lack of genuine emotion and consistent nonthreatening presence.
• “You gotta understand, when these really hot girls, you can win much excitement in my bikers.” – Joe Rogan, jokingly discussing the allure of attractive women for male audiences, illustrating a common social dynamic.
• “It’s like he found a freak pussy. Yeah. It’s like a freaking wolf.” – Bryan Callen humorously describing Ryan Seacrest’s seemingly successful personal life, highlighting the mystery surrounding his choices.
• “The most dangerous place for a woman sometimes or even a man is the bedroom, shit flares, fuck. in Tempers.” – Bryan Callen, discussing the potential for volatile emotions in intimate relationships, touching on a sensitive and often overlooked aspect of domestic violence.
• “He’s our Muhammad Ali.” – Bryan Callen, referring to Conor McGregor, highlighting the potential for him to become a global icon in the sport of MMA.