JRE #115 – Maz Jobrani

This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and comedian Maz Jobrani, delving into a wide range of topics, including comedy, music, personal experiences, and societal observations. The discussion takes unexpected turns, exploring provocative and humorous perspectives on fame, artistic expression, social dynamics, and the absurdity of life.

1. The TASCAM DR-100: A Comedy Staple?
• Joe Rogan expresses his frustration with the TASCAM DR-100, revealing this is his third one due to frequent breakdowns.
• Despite its consistent issues, he acknowledges the device’s good sound quality, highlighting the dilemma of finding reliable recording equipment.
• The conversation humorously parallels the TASCAM’s malfunction with the trope of Superman always needing the same pair of socks, implying a comedic pattern of frustration.
• This segues into a discussion about comedian’s attire, particularly the contrast between black and white comedians’ ability to “bling out” on stage, setting the stage for a broader conversation on artistic expression and societal norms.
2. Prince: The Unapologetic Artist
• Joe Rogan shares his admiration for Prince’s unique style and artistic freedom, contrasting it with the limitations comedians face when pushing boundaries.
• The conversation explores how music offers a certain license for eccentricity, allowing artists to express themselves more freely than comedians.
• The discussion delves into the connection between artistic brilliance and unconventional behavior, referencing legendary composers like Beethoven and the notion that many geniuses may have been undiagnosed autistic savants.
• This theme explores the complexities of artistic expression and the potential for unconventional behavior to drive creative genius.
3. The Power of Music and the Lost Art of Recording
• Joe Rogan reflects on the historical significance of written music, noting that composers had to rely solely on notation for hundreds of years before recording technology emerged.
• The conversation touches upon the impact of technological advancements on music consumption, comparing the debate between mono and stereo sound to the evolution of audio formats like vinyl, CDs, and digital streaming.
• The discussion explores the subjective nature of audio quality, suggesting that nostalgia and a sense of authenticity may contribute to the appeal of older formats.
• This theme delves into the evolution of music technology and its impact on the perception and appreciation of musical art.
4. Stephen Wright: A Twitter Novelist?
• Joe Rogan discusses Stephen Wright’s unconventional approach to writing, revealing that he is reportedly composing a novel on Twitter.
• The conversation highlights Wright’s unique comedic style and how it translates to a social media platform, creating an intriguing experiment in creative expression.
• The discussion explores the potential for traditional artists to embrace new technologies and adapt their work to unconventional formats.
• This theme delves into the changing landscape of artistic expression and the ways in which technology is influencing creative processes.
5. The Impact of Success on Creativity
• Joe Rogan reflects on the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity and creative drive after achieving success, drawing from his own experience and observations of other comedians.
• The conversation explores the pressure to replicate past successes and the importance of seeking out new challenges to fuel creativity.
• The discussion highlights the value of creating a space for experimentation and growth, even in the face of expectations and pressure.
• This theme delves into the complexities of navigating success as an artist and the importance of staying true to one’s creative vision.
6. Anthony Weiner: A Comedy Goldmine?
• Joe Rogan discusses the case of Anthony Weiner, a politician who resigned after sending explicit photos, highlighting the absurdity of the situation and the seemingly comedic nature of real-life events.
• The conversation touches upon the pervasiveness of scandal and the increasingly difficult landscape for politicians in the age of social media and constant scrutiny.
• The discussion explores the line between reality and fiction, noting how events like Weiner’s scandal seem almost too outlandish to be true.
• This theme delves into the intersection of politics and popular culture, exploring the ways in which real-life events can blur the lines between reality and satire.
7. The Power of Sexual Scandal in Politics
• Joe Rogan discusses the impact of sexual scandal on political careers, highlighting the rapid downfall of politicians caught in such situations.
• The conversation explores the changing moral landscape and the heightened sensitivity to sexual misconduct in the public eye.
• The discussion raises questions about the future of politics, speculating whether there will soon be no one left to run for office due to the pervasive nature of skeletons in everyone’s closet.
• This theme delves into the changing dynamics of power and accountability in the digital age, exploring how scandal can quickly derail careers and shape public perception.
8. The Toxoplasma Gondii Parasite: A French Phenomenon?
• Joe Rogan discusses the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can infect humans through contact with cats and potentially alter behavior.
• The conversation highlights the high infection rates in France, suggesting a potential link to the country’s political and social landscape.
• The discussion explores the fascinating world of parasites and their ability to influence host behavior, raising questions about the potential impact of such infections on human decision-making and actions.
• This theme delves into the intersection of science and society, exploring the potential for biological factors to influence human behavior and cultural dynamics.
9. Arnold Schwarzenegger: A Man of Action… and Perhaps, Excess?
• Joe Rogan shares humorous anecdotes about Arnold Schwarzenegger’s reputation for physical prowess and alleged penchant for extramarital affairs.
• The conversation explores the impact of steroid use on behavior and the potential for testosterone levels to influence both physical and sexual drive.
• The discussion highlights the contrast between Schwarzenegger’s public persona and the more complex and potentially problematic realities of his private life.
• This theme delves into the complexities of celebrity culture, exploring the gap between the idealized image of public figures and the often-hidden realities of their private lives.
10. The Enigma of Joey Diaz: A Human Cartoon
• Joe Rogan shares his admiration for comedian Joey Diaz, highlighting his unique personality and comedic style.
• The conversation explores Diaz’s larger-than-life persona and his ability to create humorous situations out of everyday life.
• The discussion reflects on the power of personality and the ability to entertain through authenticity and unfiltered expression.
• This theme delves into the world of stand-up comedy, exploring the diverse personalities and comedic approaches that make the art form so engaging.
11. The Cat-Loving Comedian: Rogan’s Feline Family
• Joe Rogan reveals his fondness for cats, disclosing that he has a rather large feline family in his home, currently at eleven cats.
• The conversation humorously explores the challenges of living with a multitude of cats, including the inevitable smells and cleaning duties.
• The discussion touches upon the potential dangers of cats, particularly the Toxoplasma gondii parasite they can carry, highlighting the complex relationship between humans and animals.
• This theme delves into the world of pet ownership, exploring the joys and challenges of sharing one’s life with animals.
12. The Curious Case of the Dog and the Possum
• Joe Rogan shares a humorous anecdote about his small dog’s unusual behavior, including bringing a dead possum into the house and leaving it on pee pads.
• The conversation highlights the unexpected and often bizarre ways in which animals interact with their environment and humans.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of understanding animal behavior and the need for responsible pet ownership.
• This theme delves into the world of animal behavior, exploring the complexities of animal instincts and the ways in which they can surprise and sometimes challenge humans.
13. The Bird in the Tree: A Comedy of Errors
• Joe Rogan shares his frustration with a noisy bird outside his window, revealing his humorous attempts to deal with the situation.
• The conversation highlights the unexpected ways in which nature can disrupt human life and the comical responses people may have to such disruptions.
• The discussion touches upon the theme of human resilience and the ability to find humor in unexpected circumstances.
• This theme delves into the relationship between humans and nature, exploring the challenges and opportunities that arise from living in a shared environment.
14. The East Coast Bug Problem: A Mosquito’s Paradise
• Joe Rogan compares the prevalence of bugs in California to the East Coast, highlighting the stark contrast in insect populations.
• The conversation humorously explores the annoyance of mosquitoes and the challenge of finding them in the dark, emphasizing the absurdity of human encounters with nature.
• The discussion touches upon the unique beauty of fireflies and the nostalgic appeal of experiencing nature in different environments.
• This theme delves into the diverse experiences of living in different regions and the ways in which local ecosystems shape human interactions with nature.
15. Alligators and Crocodiles: The Difference is Real
• Joe Rogan discusses the differences between alligators and crocodiles, highlighting their distinct physical characteristics and temperament.
• The conversation explores the dangerous nature of crocodiles, particularly their aggressive behavior, referencing real-life encounters and the potential for fatal encounters.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of understanding the nuances of animal behavior and the dangers of underestimating their potential for aggression.
• This theme delves into the world of dangerous wildlife, highlighting the need for respect and caution when encountering such creatures.
16. The Komodo Dragon: A Prehistoric Threat
• Joe Rogan shares stories about Komodo dragons, highlighting their prehistoric origins and the deadly nature of their venom.
• The conversation explores the fascinating world of reptiles and their unique adaptations, referencing real-life encounters and the dangers they pose to humans.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of recognizing the power and unpredictability of nature, particularly when encountering large and potentially dangerous animals.
• This theme delves into the awe-inspiring and sometimes terrifying aspects of the natural world, showcasing the diverse and often dangerous creatures that inhabit our planet.
17. SeaWorld: A Whale’s Prison?
• Joe Rogan discusses the controversy surrounding SeaWorld and the captivity of intelligent animals like whales and dolphins.
• The conversation explores the ethical implications of keeping such creatures in captivity, highlighting the potential for psychological harm and the lack of respect for their intelligence and emotional complexity.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of understanding animal sentience and the need for more humane treatment of animals in captivity.
• This theme delves into the ethical considerations of human interactions with animals, raising questions about the responsibility we have to protect and respect their well-being.
18. The Cove: A Shocking Glimpse into Dolphin Slaughter
• Joe Rogan discusses the documentary “The Cove,” which exposes the brutal slaughter of dolphins in Japan.
• The conversation highlights the intelligence and social complexity of dolphins, emphasizing the cruelty of their capture and killing.
• The discussion touches upon the hypocrisy of human behavior, noting the juxtaposition of admiration for dolphins’ intelligence with the ruthless practices that exploit them.
• This theme delves into the complexities of human relationships with the natural world, exploring the ethical implications of our actions and the need for greater compassion and understanding.
19. The LA Zoo: A Depressing Reality?
• Joe Rogan shares his negative experience at the LA Zoo, highlighting his perception of the animals’ distress and the overall atmosphere of the facility.
• The conversation explores the challenges of creating a humane environment for wild animals in captivity, questioning the effectiveness of zoos as conservation tools.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of respecting animal needs and providing them with appropriate environments that allow for natural behaviors and well-being.
• This theme delves into the ethical and practical considerations of zoos and the debate over their role in animal conservation and public education.
20. The Importance of Animal Instincts and the Need for Respect
• Joe Rogan discusses the importance of respecting animal instincts, particularly the natural drive to hunt and kill prey.
• The conversation explores the challenges of creating safe and fulfilling environments for animals in captivity, suggesting that zoos should consider allowing animals to engage in natural behaviors, including hunting.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of understanding the role of animals in the ecosystem and the need for responsible management of wild populations.
• This theme delves into the complex relationship between humans and animals, exploring the need for a balance between conservation and respect for animal instincts.
21. The Wildness of Africa: A Continent of Extremes
• Joe Rogan discusses his experience in Kenya, highlighting the incredible diversity and wild nature of the African continent.
• The conversation explores the dangers of encountering large and potentially dangerous animals like rhinos and hippos in their natural habitat.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of respecting the power of nature and the need for caution when venturing into wild environments.
• This theme delves into the beauty and dangers of the natural world, showcasing the extraordinary diversity of life on Earth and the importance of respecting the power of nature.
22. The Congo: A Dense and Dangerous Jungle
• Joe Rogan discusses his fascination with the Congo, highlighting the dense jungle environment and the challenges of human survival in such a harsh landscape.
• The conversation explores the history of European colonization in the Congo and the lasting impact of such ventures, including the exploitation of resources and the ongoing conflict over mineral wealth.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of recognizing the complexities of global politics and the need for ethical and sustainable practices in resource extraction and conflict resolution.
• This theme delves into the historical and geopolitical complexities of the Congo, highlighting the ongoing challenges of human survival and the need for responsible governance in resource-rich regions.
23. The Persian Community: Maz Jobrani’s Rise to Fame
• Joe Rogan discusses Maz Jobrani’s growing popularity within the Persian community, acknowledging the comedian’s role as a cultural icon and voice for the Iranian diaspora.
• The conversation explores the nuances of cultural identity and the importance of representation, particularly for marginalized communities.
• The discussion touches upon the power of humor to bridge cultural divides and promote understanding and empathy.
• This theme delves into the role of comedy in shaping social attitudes and promoting cultural awareness, highlighting the importance of diverse voices in the world of entertainment.
24. The Arabian Nights: A Comedy Tour of the Middle East
• Joe Rogan discusses Maz Jobrani’s experience performing in the Middle East, highlighting the diverse audiences and cultural sensitivities he encountered.
• The conversation explores the challenge of navigating cultural differences and the importance of understanding local customs and sensitivities.
• The discussion touches upon the power of humor to connect people across cultural boundaries and promote dialogue and understanding.
• This theme delves into the global nature of stand-up comedy and the unique opportunities and challenges it presents for comedians performing in diverse cultural contexts.
25. The Iranian Revolution: A Complex History of Change
• Joe Rogan and Maz Jobrani discuss the Iranian Revolution of 1979, exploring its origins, key players, and lasting impact.
• The conversation explores the historical context of the revolution, including the role of the Shah, the rise of Ayatollah Khomeini, and the influence of US foreign policy.
• The discussion touches upon the complex dynamics of political change and the challenges of navigating a path toward democracy and stability in the Middle East.
• This theme delves into the historical and geopolitical complexities of the Middle East, exploring the forces that have shaped the region’s political landscape and the ongoing challenges of promoting peace and stability.
26. The Future of the Middle East: A Time of Tumult
• Joe Rogan and Maz Jobrani discuss the current political landscape of the Middle East, highlighting the rise of social media and its role in shaping political movements and uprisings.
• The conversation explores the potential for positive change in countries like Egypt, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges and uncertainties.
• The discussion touches upon the complex dynamics of global politics and the need for careful consideration of the long-term implications of rapid political transitions.
• This theme delves into the evolving landscape of global politics, exploring the impact of technology on social movements, political change, and the search for stability in a volatile world.
27. The Economic Crisis: A Global Challenge
• Joe Rogan and Maz Jobrani discuss the global economic crisis, exploring the complexities of financial systems and the widening gap between the wealthy and the poor.
• The conversation explores the role of government intervention and the challenges of managing a globalized economy in a time of uncertainty.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of understanding the dynamics of wealth distribution and the need for policies that promote social equity and economic stability.
• This theme delves into the challenges of navigating a complex and interconnected global economy, highlighting the need for responsible leadership and sustainable practices.
28. The Power of the Internet: A Force for Change?
• Joe Rogan and Maz Jobrani discuss the transformative power of the internet, acknowledging its role in facilitating communication, organizing social movements, and disseminating information.
• The conversation explores the potential for the internet to be a force for good, while also acknowledging its potential for misuse and manipulation.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of responsible use of technology and the need for media literacy in navigating the complexities of the digital world.
• This theme delves into the impact of technology on society, highlighting the potential for both positive and negative consequences and the need for critical engagement with the digital landscape.
29. The Comedy Store: A Mecca for Stand-Up
• Joe Rogan and Maz Jobrani discuss the legendary Comedy Store in Hollywood, highlighting its role as a proving ground for stand-up comedians.
• The conversation explores the unique atmosphere of the club, characterized by its relaxed environment, unpredictable crowds, and the constant pressure to perform well.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of developing thick skin and the ability to adapt to diverse audiences in the world of stand-up comedy.
• This theme delves into the world of stand-up comedy, showcasing the unique challenges and rewards of performing in a competitive and demanding environment.
30. The Importance of Perspective and the Power of Laughter
• Joe Rogan and Maz Jobrani discuss the importance of finding humor in difficult situations and the ability of laughter to provide solace and perspective.
• The conversation explores the transformative power of comedy, its ability to connect people, challenge societal norms, and provide a release from the anxieties of everyday life.
• The discussion touches upon the importance of finding joy in life, even in the face of adversity, and the power of laughter to bring people together.
• This theme delves into the universal appeal of humor and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries and provide a shared experience of joy and connection.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “It’s a crazy thing, man. Like, if I’m in LA, I’d be like, what are you doing? I’d be like, ‘Oh, I’m working on a movie about a spy who goes to, you know, to to South America to overthrow the government.’ Like, when you come to DC, go, ‘What are you doing?’ Like, ‘I’m a spy who’s gonna go to South America to overthrow.'”
• “You know, there’s there’s a a great amount of shitheads in this city, but it’s just because the numbers. The numbers are so high.”
• “I’ve had the craziness experiences in New York where I’m like, ‘Oh, it’s a sunny day. I walk into a meeting. I walk out in this pouring rain. I’m like, ‘What the hell happened?’ And it’s hot and humid?’ That’s most of the world. Most of the world has to deal with weather. We just have to deal with the once a decade or 2, the the world moves. Yeah. Yeah. And shit falls down. Yeah. Yeah.”
• “The whole point of the comedy store is to go with ‘who cares?’ Like, you know Yeah. Exactly. So it was 1 of those, like, ‘who care? Who’s who in the audience that has any kind of influence of agents or something?’ It’s fucking Eddie Murphy.”
• “I always say, like, I I don’t like to be in front of everyone that knows me. 1 reason is you feel like, okay, they might have heard a lot of this shit. Yeah. Even if it’s new now with the Internet, it’s it’s gone. Right. And secondly, I love I just love I mean, like like, for example, 1 thing that happens with my audience is, like, it what happened was when we first did the Exodus Eve of Comedy Tour, came out on Comedy Central, and a lot of young, like Middle East Surgeons started following us. But then they started bringing their parents and growing up, like, in the Middle Eastern community, like, it’s like, you know, you’re very like, you you don’t go too blue, like, you know, you gotta be nice and polite. I mean, you could get, you know, get a little edgy, but you don’t cost You know, like, there’s a whole thing, like, for the longest time with my mom and my like, I was just it was distilled to me, don’t cuss definitely not around you know, persions, you’re not gonna cuss.”