JRE #291 – Duncan Trussell

11/28/2012

This podcast delves into a fascinating conversation between Joe Rogan and Duncan Trussell, exploring a wide range of topics from the absurdity of horror movies to the complexities of human consciousness. Provocative and insightful, the conversation touches upon personal experiences, cultural phenomena, and philosophical ideas. Underlying themes weave a tapestry of human experience: the search for meaning, the power of perspective, and the quest for self-discovery.

1. The Absurdity and Violence of Horror Movies

The discussion kicks off with a shared appreciation for horror movies, specifically “American Werewolf in London,” which Joe Rogan describes as the greatest horror movie of all time. However, the conversation takes a turn towards the disturbing nature of “Funny Games,” a film Joe Rogan argues is “almost pornographic” in its graphic depiction of human violence. This segues into a debate about the difference between enjoying fictional violence and experiencing real-life cruelty.

• Joe Rogan asserts that he finds genuine violence repulsive, preferring the fantastical violence of werewolf or vampire movies.
• Duncan Trussell agrees, recognizing the difference between fictional and real-life violence.
• They discuss the artistic merits of “Funny Games” as a commentary on media infiltration and fascism, even while acknowledging its deeply disturbing nature.
• Joe Rogan expresses disgust at the thought of witnessing real-life violence, highlighting the disconnect between entertainment and reality.

2. The Evolution of Times Square and the Transformation of New York City

The conversation takes an unexpected turn as they reflect upon the evolution of Times Square, contrasting its seedy past with its sanitized present. The discussion highlights how cities change, reflecting social and cultural shifts.

• Joe Rogan recounts his experiences visiting Times Square during its more dangerous days, describing it as a place of “dirty little rip teas, and peep shows.”
• Duncan Trussell shares his own recollections of visiting Times Square in his youth, emphasizing the sense of danger and disorientation he felt.
• They discuss the city’s transformation, highlighting the conscious decision to clean up the area and make it more family-friendly.
• The conversation implicitly suggests a larger theme of societal progress, while acknowledging the loss of some aspects of the city’s gritty charm.

3. The Unintentional “Jizz in the Face” Experience and the Exploration of Shame

Joe Rogan recounts a hilarious and slightly embarrassing anecdote involving an accidental “jizz in the face” experience during his teenage years. The story serves as a springboard for exploring the nature of shame and the absurdity of human behavior.

• Joe Rogan describes the incident with humor, acknowledging his own youthful clumsiness.
• He playfully suggests that the experience might have given him a newfound understanding of the appeal of “hot loads in the face,” emphasizing the absurdity of the situation.
• The conversation explores the concept of shame, highlighting the disconnect between the seriousness of the act and the humorous way it is recounted.
• Ultimately, the anecdote becomes a lighthearted exploration of human fallibility and the shared experience of embarrassment.

4. The Mystery of the Yucatan Name and the Perspective of Explorers

Joe Rogan shares a fascinating piece of historical trivia about the origin of the Yucatan peninsula’s name. The anecdote highlights the importance of questioning the narratives we are told and the remarkable ingenuity of early explorers.

• Joe Rogan recounts the story of Spanish explorers encountering the Mayan people and their response to being asked the name of their land.
• The Mayan people’s response, “Yucatan,” was actually a phrase meaning “I don’t understand you.”
• This anecdote underscores the fallibility of assumptions and the potential for misinterpretation in communication.
• The conversation explores the awe and wonder experienced by early explorers, highlighting the human spirit’s inherent desire to discover and explore the unknown.

5. The Psychedelic Nature of Staring at the Stars and the Quest for Beauty

Joe Rogan reflects upon the profound experience of gazing at a star-filled sky, comparing it to a visual psychedelic. The conversation delves into the universal human desire to experience beauty and the powerful impact it has on our consciousness.

• Joe Rogan describes the overwhelming sense of awe and wonder that comes from witnessing the vastness of the cosmos.
• He suggests that staring at the stars can be a form of visual psychedelic, emphasizing the transformative impact of experiencing something truly awe-inspiring.
• The discussion touches upon the idea of “peak experiences” and the human desire to chase those feelings, whether it’s through art, nature, or human connection.
• They explore the potential for enlightenment as a state of perpetual awe and wonder, a place where one is constantly in a state of “wow.”

6. The Challenge of Maintaining a Positive Environment and Dealing with Difficult People

The conversation shifts towards the importance of carefully constructing a positive environment and dealing with difficult personalities. They explore the concept of “emotional gym” and the ability to control one’s reactions to negativity.

• Joe Rogan highlights the importance of “sharp editing” in one’s life, both in terms of minimizing negative actions and avoiding interactions with toxic people.
• Duncan Trussell suggests the concept of an “emotional gym,” where dealing with difficult individuals can be a form of psychological growth.
• They discuss the potential for transformative change in the way we handle negativity, moving beyond reactivity and achieving a state of inner peace even in the face of adversity.
• The conversation acknowledges that sometimes, it is necessary to remove toxic individuals from one’s life, but also suggests the possibility of growth through encountering difficult personalities.

7. The Amplification of Violence in a Connected World and the Potential for Change

Joe Rogan and Duncan Trussell discuss the paradoxical effect of increased connectivity on the perception of violence. They acknowledge the dark side of this connected world while also highlighting the potential for positive change through heightened awareness.

• They acknowledge the unsettling reality of seeing horrific acts of violence broadcast instantaneously across the globe.
• They express concern about the potential for this amplified exposure to violence to lead to a more negative and reactive world.
• However, they also believe that this increased awareness has the potential to drive positive change, as people become more vocal and active in denouncing violence.
• The conversation highlights the importance of actively engaging with this information and using it to promote positive change, rather than succumbing to despair or apathy.

8. The Shifting Power Dynamics of the World and the Demise of the “Old White Dudes”

The discussion touches upon the political landscape, observing the fading power of traditional authority figures and the rising influence of a more connected, diverse world. The conversation suggests a shift in consciousness, where old paradigms are being challenged and new forms of leadership are emerging.

• They discuss the growing awareness of social injustices and the diminishing influence of powerful, outdated institutions.
• They observe the increasing resistance to old power structures, exemplified by protests and movements challenging traditional authority.
• They speculate on the potential for a more equitable and inclusive future, where leadership comes from diverse voices and a greater emphasis on collective action.
• The conversation highlights the dynamic nature of power dynamics, suggesting that the world is in constant flux, with new ideas and approaches constantly emerging.

9. The “God Hates Fags” Phenomenon and the Struggle Against Fundamentalism

Joe Rogan and Duncan Trussell discuss the rise of extreme fundamentalism, exemplified by the “God Hates Fags” movement. They express concern about the persistence of hatred and intolerance, while also highlighting the potential for collective action to combat these forces.

• They discuss the disturbing prevalence of hate groups and their attempts to spread messages of bigotry and violence.
• They highlight the importance of actively challenging these hateful ideologies and using the power of the internet to counter their messages.
• They emphasize the need for collective action to confront these forces, suggesting that unity and collective awareness are crucial to combatting hatred and intolerance.
• The conversation underscores the importance of vigilance and active resistance to prevent the spread of harmful ideologies.

10. The Egyptian Uprising and the Struggle for Freedom

The conversation turns to the Egyptian uprising and the ongoing struggle for democracy in that country. The discussion explores the power of collective action and the challenges of navigating a changing world.

• They discuss the Egyptian people’s determination to overthrow an oppressive regime and establish a more democratic society.
• They highlight the challenges of transitioning to a more democratic system, acknowledging the potential for instability and the influence of powerful forces.
• They express hope that the Egyptian people’s resilience and commitment to freedom will prevail, paving the way for a more just and equitable society.
• The conversation underscores the global interconnectedness of these struggles and the importance of supporting movements for freedom and democracy around the world.

11. The “Fast and Furious” Controversy and the Abuse of Executive Privilege

Joe Rogan and Duncan Trussell discuss the “Fast and Furious” scandal, questioning the motives behind the Obama administration’s decision to sell guns to Mexican drug cartels. The conversation raises concerns about the abuse of power and the lack of transparency in government actions.

• Joe Rogan expresses his incredulity at the logic behind the “Fast and Furious” operation, arguing that it was a demonstrably flawed strategy.
• He questions the administration’s motives, suggesting that it was a deliberate attempt to profit from gun sales rather than a genuine attempt to track weapons.
• He criticizes the use of executive privilege to avoid accountability, arguing that elected officials should be held responsible for their actions.
• The conversation underscores the need for increased transparency and accountability from government officials, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like gun control and national security.

12. The “Costco Version” of the Presidency and the Shift Towards More Inclusive Leadership

The conversation shifts towards a broader discussion about the qualities of effective leadership, drawing a parallel between the corporate culture of Costco and the ideal of a public servant president. The conversation suggests a shift towards a more inclusive and empathetic form of leadership.

• Joe Rogan praises Costco’s business practices, highlighting their commitment to employee welfare and ethical treatment.
• He contrasts this with the exploitative practices of companies like Walmart, illustrating the difference between businesses that prioritize profit over people.
• He proposes that a “Costco version” of the presidency would prioritize the welfare of its citizens and work towards a more equitable and prosperous society.
• The conversation suggests a need for a shift in leadership, moving away from self-serving interests and towards a more compassionate and inclusive approach.

13. The Power of Giving More Than You’re Supposed To and the Role of Connectivity in Creativity

Joe Rogan and Duncan Trussell discuss the importance of exceeding expectations and the role of connectivity in fostering creativity. They argue that generosity and openness are essential for unlocking new ideas and achieving greater fulfillment.

• They reflect upon the positive impact of working for companies like Google, where employees are valued and treated well.
• They discuss the transformative power of giving more than you’re expected to, both in terms of personal and professional growth.
• They believe that this generous mindset creates a more fertile ground for creativity, fostering a spirit of openness and collaboration.
• The conversation suggests that connectivity, both in terms of human interaction and technological access, is a vital force in driving innovation and progress.

14. The Transformation of John McAfee and the Duality of Human Nature

The conversation shifts to a captivating discussion about John McAfee, the eccentric tech mogul who became a fugitive after facing murder charges in Belize. The conversation delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring the extremes of paranoia, ambition, and the potential for self-destruction.

• Joe Rogan shares his fascination with McAfee’s story, acknowledging the man’s brilliance but also highlighting his eccentric and potentially dangerous behavior.
• They discuss McAfee’s descent into paranoia, his isolation on an island, and his constant fear of being hunted by authorities.
• The conversation explores the potential for success and ambition to lead to self-destruction, particularly when fueled by paranoia and a lack of self-awareness.
• They acknowledge the duality of human nature, highlighting the capacity for both incredible achievement and self-destructive tendencies.

15. The Nature of Paranoia and the Difficulty of Distinguishing Reality from Fiction

The conversation delves deeper into the psychology of paranoia, exploring how it can warp reality and make it difficult to discern truth from fiction. The discussion raises questions about the challenges of navigating a world increasingly influenced by misinformation and the power of our own biases.

• Joe Rogan shares anecdotes about encounters with individuals exhibiting paranoid behavior, illustrating how it can manifest in everyday life.
• They discuss the difficulty of determining whether someone’s paranoia is rooted in genuine threats or simply a distorted perception of reality.
• The conversation explores the impact of misinformation and the constant barrage of information on our ability to form accurate judgments.
• They acknowledge the importance of critical thinking, skepticism, and seeking multiple perspectives to navigate a world filled with competing narratives and potential biases.

16. The Power of Love and the Transformation of Prisoners

The conversation circles back to the theme of love and its transformative power, focusing on the remarkable impact of introducing kittens into prison settings. The discussion highlights the potential for compassion to change even the most hardened hearts.

• Joe Rogan shares a story about a prison program that introduces kittens to inmates, demonstrating a significant reduction in violence.
• They discuss the positive effects of love and compassion on human behavior, suggesting that even the most hardened criminals can be transformed by the power of connection.
• They acknowledge the need for alternative approaches to rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of fostering empathy and fostering positive connections within prison systems.
• The conversation underscores the universality of love and its potential to heal wounds and bring about positive change.

17. The “Most Evil Prisoner” and the Unfathomable Depths of Human Cruelty

Joe Rogan and Duncan Trussell discuss a chilling video of a Colombian prison inmate who describes his own sadistic behavior and his control over other prisoners. The conversation delves into the dark side of human nature, exploring the terrifying potential for cruelty and dominance.

• They share their horror at the inmate’s chilling testimony, recognizing the extreme brutality that can occur within prison systems.
• They acknowledge the human capacity for extreme cruelty, highlighting the potential for dominance and violence even in the most confined spaces.
• The conversation raises questions about the nature of rehabilitation and the challenges of addressing the root causes of criminal behavior.
• They express a sense of unease and disgust at the depths of human cruelty, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding as a counterbalance to these dark forces.

18. The Importance of Building Something and the Power of Bricks and Wood

As the conversation wraps up, Joe Rogan reflects upon the joy and satisfaction of building something tangible, expressing a fondness for the materials of bricks and wood. This seemingly simple observation becomes a metaphor for the process of creation and the importance of leaving something lasting behind.

• Joe Rogan expresses his appreciation for the physicality of building, contrasting it with the more intangible aspects of his podcasting work.
• He shares his enjoyment of the simple beauty of materials like bricks and wood, highlighting their timeless appeal.
• The conversation subtly connects this physical act of building with the process of creation in a broader sense, suggesting that creating something tangible provides a sense of accomplishment and legacy.
• They acknowledge the importance of taking the time to appreciate the simple pleasures of life and the beauty of everyday objects.

19. The Desire for Connection and the Importance of Being Present

Joe Rogan emphasizes the importance of connecting with others, acknowledging the value of having a physical space where people can gather and share experiences. This echoes the recurring theme of the podcast, emphasizing the power of human connection and the need for meaningful interaction.

• Joe Rogan expresses his desire to create a space where people can come together, relax, and share experiences.
• He highlights the value of face-to-face interaction, contrasting it with the more impersonal nature of online communication.
• The conversation underscores the need for genuine human connection and the importance of being present in the moment.
• This desire for connection echoes the overall theme of the podcast, celebrating the power of human interaction and the importance of shared experiences.

20. The Promise of Transformation and the Call to Action

The podcast concludes with a sense of optimism and a call to action. Joe Rogan and Duncan Trussell express their belief in the transformative power of human connection, love, and a shared desire for positive change. They encourage listeners to actively engage with the world, embrace new ideas, and work towards a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.

• They emphasize the importance of being actively engaged in the world and not allowing negativity to paralyze you.
• They encourage listeners to embrace the power of love and compassion, recognizing its transformative potential.
• They highlight the importance of surrounding yourself with positive influences and actively seeking out meaningful connections.
• The podcast ends on a note of hope and optimism, urging listeners to be agents of change and contribute to creating a more just and fulfilling world.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “If you’re shut down, close down, if you’re fucking if you’re if you’re just one big human muscle spasm pushing all your gems into the black pit of your life, you know, hoarding and hiding and concealing, then you’re shut down. That’s when you turn into Donald Trump with his dumbass tweets.”
• “It’s all about constructing that environment. though. You know, you have to, like, do that by sharp editing throughout throughout your entire life. You gotta figure out how to edit yourself and edit people.”
• “Love is the answer. Bro. Yeah, man. Love. Yeah. It is goddamn. I got with a little fucking kitten can transform some hardcore thug into somebody who’s like, you know, I’m not gonna fight because Princess is back in this salad. I don’t wanna lose her. That’s love, man. That’s the most powerful thing.”
• “We’re in the we’re in the woods of discovery. We’re gonna we’re gonna get it worked out.”
• “Dude, I drank so much coffee today. Yeah. Go ahead. Go ahead. don’t have much time left in this podcast, unfortunately, because I got a big, stupid, important meaning.”