JRE #1224 – Adam Greentree

14-Jan-19

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Joe Rogan Podcast #1224 – Adam Greentree: Topics & Summary

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features Adam Greentree, a bowhunter and photographer from Australia. Greentree, known for his outdoor adventures and captivating stories, discusses his experiences with wildlife encounters, hunting practices, and reflections on the nature of humanity in the face of a rapidly changing world. Provocative topics include the increasing disconnect from nature, the ethical dilemmas of hunting, the potential dangers of virtual reality, and the importance of respecting the environment. Underlying themes explore the primal instincts that drive human behavior, the need for balance in our relationship with nature, and the allure of living a more authentic and connected life.

Topics and 4-Point Summaries:

1. Hunting in the American Wilderness:
   1. Greentree describes his experiences with grizzly bears, mountain lions, and wolves in the Rocky Mountains, highlighting the inherent dangers and unpredictability of the wild.
   2. He contrasts the wildlife encounters in the American wilderness with the risks associated with hunting in Australia, where crocodiles pose a significant threat in aquatic environments.
   3. Greentree emphasizes the importance of respecting the natural world and understanding the role of predators within the ecosystem, particularly in the context of hunting.
   4. The discussion sheds light on the increasing disconnect between human society and nature, as evidenced by the novelty of encounters with apex predators.
2. The Intelligence of Wolves:
   1. Greentree recounts witnessing the strategic hunting techniques of wolves, highlighting their remarkable intelligence and ability to cooperate.
   2. He discusses the reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park in 1994, demonstrating their adaptability and impact on the ecosystem.
   3. The podcast delves into the ancient myth of the werewolf, suggesting its origin may stem from the eerie and intense gaze of wolves, which can seem to penetrate the human soul.
   4. The conversation explores the wisdom of nature, emphasizing that humans have much to learn from the intricate balance and interconnectedness of the wild.
3. The Future of Technology and Human Connection:
   1. Greentree expresses concern about the increasing reliance on technology, particularly virtual reality, which he believes could lead to a disconnect from the physical world and a diminished sense of accomplishment.
   2. He highlights the immersive and potentially addictive nature of virtual reality experiences, questioning the ethical implications of experiencing artificial triumphs without real-world effort.
   3. The conversation explores the potential impact of technology on human behavior, including the erosion of social skills and the potential for virtual experiences to replace authentic connections.
   4. Greentree raises concerns about the blurring of boundaries between reality and simulation, particularly regarding the potential for virtual sex to diminish the importance of real-world relationships.
4. The Ethical Considerations of Hunting:
   1. Greentree discusses the controversy surrounding hunting, particularly the use of dogs to track and hunt mountain lions, arguing that it is an effective method of population control.
   2. He challenges the perception that hunting with dogs is unfair, explaining its necessity in managing predator populations and ensuring the health of other wildlife.
   3. He emphasizes the importance of responsible hunting practices, highlighting the need for ethical tags and sustainable management of wildlife populations.
   4. The conversation explores the disconnect between those who hunt and those who oppose it, emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of hunters in maintaining ecological balance.
5. The Importance of Respect for Nature:
   1. Greentree discusses the detrimental impact of human behavior on the environment, highlighting the problem of trash and vandalism in natural spaces.
   2. He advocates for a greater sense of responsibility towards nature, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace and respecting the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
   3. He contrasts the lack of respect for nature in some American areas with the strong community-based conservation efforts in New Zealand, highlighting the difference in cultural values.
   4. Greentree encourages a shift in perspective towards seeing the world as a interconnected system, where our actions have consequences for both ourselves and future generations.
6. The Primal Connection to Hunting and Nature:
   1. Greentree delves into the primal instincts that drive human behavior, suggesting that hunting and fishing are deeply ingrained in our DNA, stemming from our ancestors’ survival needs.
   2. He describes the feeling of deep satisfaction and connection that comes with hunting and preparing one’s own food, contrasting it with the detachment associated with mass-produced meat.
   3. Greentree argues that hunting is not simply about killing animals but about a profound respect for life and the cycle of nature.
   4. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of human behavior, particularly our innate connection to the natural world.
7. The Impact of Invasive Species:
   1. Greentree discusses the destructive impact of invasive species, such as feral pigs and foxes, on native ecosystems in Australia.
   2. He highlights the challenges of managing these populations, particularly in remote areas where traditional hunting methods may not be feasible.
   3. The podcast emphasizes the need for proactive measures to prevent the introduction of invasive species and manage existing populations to protect native wildlife.
   4. The conversation highlights the fragility of ecosystems and the importance of human intervention to ensure their balance and sustainability.
8. The Search for the Tasmanian Tiger:
   1. Greentree discusses the possibility of the Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacine) still existing, fueled by recent credible reports and ongoing research.
   2. He recounts the history of the Thylacine’s extinction, attributing it to human persecution and the destruction of its habitat.
   3. The conversation explores the desire to bring back extinct species, acknowledging the ethical and ecological considerations involved.
   4. The podcast highlights the ongoing mystery surrounding the Tasmanian Tiger and the potential for scientific advancements to uncover its fate.
9. The Importance of Self-Sufficiency and Authenticity:
   1. Greentree reflects on the appeal of living off the grid, emphasizing the sense of peace and connection to nature that comes with self-reliance.
   2. He discusses the challenges of balancing his desire for a simpler life with the demands of his career and family, highlighting the importance of finding a balance between autonomy and connection.
   3. Greentree shares his experiences with indigenous communities in Australia, emphasizing the respect and connection they have to their land, and the importance of preserving traditional knowledge.
   4. The conversation encourages a deeper reflection on our relationship with the world, questioning the pursuit of material possessions and striving for a more authentic and meaningful existence.
10. The Importance of Open Borders and Global Unity:
    1. Greentree expresses his perspective on immigration, arguing that open borders would allow for greater opportunity and mobility for people seeking a better life.
    2. He highlights the complexities of immigration policies, acknowledging the need for security and responsible management while recognizing the human drive to seek opportunity.
    3. The conversation explores the concept of a global community, emphasizing the importance of understanding different cultures and working towards a more unified and equitable world.
    4. Greentree challenges the notion of nationalistic boundaries, advocating for a more interconnected and collaborative approach to solving global challenges.
11. The Value of Travel and Experiencing the World:
    1. Greentree emphasizes the importance of travel, both within and outside one’s own country, as a way to broaden perspective and gain a deeper appreciation for the world.
    2. He encourages people to break free from their routines and explore the diverse landscapes and cultures that exist beyond their immediate surroundings.
    3. Greentree highlights the transformative power of experiencing different ways of life, fostering empathy and understanding.
    4. The conversation underscores the interconnectedness of the world, reminding listeners that we are all part of a larger human story.
12. The Importance of Mental Toughness and Resilience:
    1. Greentree emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and resilience, particularly in the face of adversity and difficult challenges.
    2. He recounts his experiences with extreme weather conditions and demanding hunts, highlighting the importance of determination and adaptability.
    3. The conversation explores the human capacity for overcoming challenges and finding strength in the face of adversity.
    4. Greentree suggests that embracing discomfort and facing challenges can lead to personal growth and a deeper appreciation for life.
13. The Impact of Modern Society on Human Connection and Authenticity:
    1. Greentree reflects on the increasing disconnect from nature and authentic experiences in modern society, particularly in urban settings.
    2. He suggests that this disconnect contributes to a lack of appreciation for the environment and a diminished sense of purpose and meaning.
    3. The conversation highlights the importance of fostering a sense of community and connection, particularly through shared experiences in nature.
    4. Greentree encourages people to reconnect with their primal instincts and seek a more authentic and fulfilling life.

5 Memorable Quotes:

1. “The difference is when you’re walking around the mountains here, it can happen at any point because fucking grizzly bears have got feet. They walk on land. In Australia, you pretty much have to go into the water. So you’re only worried about that when you go to collect water or you’re thinking about having a wash or something. Here, it’s full time.”
2. “People that I know that have seen them in the forest say they look at you a different way. There’s a a way they look through you. They look at you in a way, like, almost like they think that that’s the reason why that the the myth of the werewolf exists.”
3. “You gotta think what it would be like if you’re just out there you know, if you’re lucky, live five years old. Right? You get this hard scrub of life out there chasing much larger animals than and you gotta kill them with your face. Yeah. Make it happen or die. Yeah. Crazy.”
4. “That’s gonna happen. Yeah. They’re gonna they’re gonna be able to do all these different things, and it’s gonna it’s gonna make people more and more dependent on technology and weaker and weaker folks. and weaker.”
5. “You’re not supposed to see them. They’re not like that. Listen. You you could go your whole life not seeing them and they could be around you all the time. Definitely. That’s a fact.”

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