JRE #1378 - Greg Fitzsimmons

6-Nov-19

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Joe Rogan Podcast – #1378 – Greg Fitzsimmons

This podcast delves deep into the complexities of personal choices, societal pressures, and the pursuit of happiness through the lens of Joe Rogan and Greg Fitzsimmons. Provocative topics span substance use, the human condition, social dynamics, and even the absurdity of the internet age. Underlying themes explore the constant search for meaning, the challenge of navigating social expectations, and the inherent contradictions of a world where both progressive idealism and regressive behaviors coexist.

Topics and 4-Point Summaries:

1. Sobriety, Substance Use, and the Human Condition

Joe and Greg discuss their respective experiences with sobriety and their individual choices around substance use.
They reflect on the desire to alter their natural brain state through alcohol, marijuana, and other substances.
Joe highlights how quitting drinking led to a realization that he could be just as fun and crazy sober, enjoying life without needing substances to enhance it.
Greg shares his perspective on marijuana as a creative stimulant, noting its influence on his writing process.

2. The Power of Creativity and Writing

Greg describes his writing process, emphasizing free-form writing, essay-like exploration, and extracting ideas for stand-up material.
He champions the “writer’s way” approach, involving morning writing sessions without coffee or distractions.
He acknowledges the importance of persistence and recognizing the gems amidst the garbage in a creative process.
Joe and Greg discuss the connection between substances, creativity, and the generation of ideas.

3. The Unintentional Discovery of Ancient Treasure

Joe and Greg are intrigued by the story of a man who discovered a massive Anglo-Saxon gold horde using a $2 metal detector.
They explore the historical significance of the find, dating back to 650 AD, and its implications for understanding the “golden age” of Anglo-Saxon England.
The discovery sparks curiosity about the availability of gold during that era and the use of Christian symbols for good luck in battle.
The conversation highlights the unexpected nature of discovery and the allure of unearthing history.

4. The Rise and Fall of Game of Thrones

Joe and Greg discuss the disappointment surrounding the final season of Game of Thrones and its potential prequel.
They attribute the decline in quality to George R.R. Martin’s lack of involvement in the later seasons and the showrunners’ struggles to maintain the show’s original depth and direction.
They contrast the show’s ending with the satisfaction of NewsRadio’s finale, which had no prior knowledge of being its last episode.
They reflect on the impact of network ownership and lead-in shows on the fate of television programs, noting how the model has changed with the advent of streaming services and DVR technology.

5. The Absurdity of Presidential Debates and the Power of Viral Moments

Joe and Greg criticize the format of presidential debates, highlighting the pressure to go viral and the emphasis on soundbites over substance.
They discuss the pitfalls of lesser-known candidates trying to gain attention by attacking major candidates.
They reflect on Beto O’Rourke’s unsuccessful presidential bid, despite his initial popularity from his race against Ted Cruz in Texas.
They express their appreciation for Austin, Texas, as a unique and vibrant city with a strong music scene and a blend of Southern charm and progressive thinking.

6. The Epstein Case and the Unpredictability of Human Behavior

Joe and Greg discuss the ongoing investigations into Jeffrey Epstein’s death, speculating on the possibility of murder.
They recall a disturbing segment from the HBO series “Autopsy” about a coroner who was obsessed with a deceased patient and engaged in bizarre, disturbing acts with her body.
They discuss the book “Dead Doctors Don’t Lie,” which explores the importance of mineral supplementation in human health, and the connection to mineral deficiencies and mental health issues.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health needs and the potential dangers of relying solely on medications to treat these conditions.

7. The Reality of Food Poisoning and Travel Safety

Joe and Greg discuss the dangers of food poisoning, particularly from salad due to the potential contamination from animal agriculture runoff.
They share travel tips for avoiding food poisoning in third-world countries, advising against eating lettuce and emphasizing the importance of thoroughly cooked meat.
They discuss the history of using wine as a preventative measure against traveler’s illness due to the lack of safe drinking water in the past.
The conversation delves into the practice of using filters, UV light, and iodine tablets to purify questionable water sources, particularly when hiking or traveling in remote areas.

8. The Impact of Travel and Exposure to Parasites

Joe and Greg discuss the story of a friend who contracted an unidentified parasite while working on a charity project in the Congo.
They examine the effects of the parasite on the individual’s health and the challenges of diagnosis and treatment in such cases.
They explore the potential dangers of anti-malaria medications like Mefloquine, highlighting its toxicity and potential side effects.
They discuss the history of malaria’s impact on the construction of the Panama Canal, illustrating the devastating effects of the disease.

9. The Mosquito Problem and the Potential for Genetic Engineering

Joe and Greg discuss the potential for genetic engineering to eliminate malaria-carrying mosquitoes.
They acknowledge the risks associated with eliminating mosquitoes entirely due to their complex role in the ecosystem.
Joe shares a personal anecdote about discovering a pool full of mosquito larvae, highlighting the rapid breeding potential of mosquitoes.
The conversation explores the prevalence of termites in Los Angeles and the challenges of dealing with termite infestations, illustrating the unseen threats that can plague everyday life.

10. The Popularity of Soul Food and the Authenticity of Culinary Experiences

Joe and Greg rave about a soul food restaurant in Fresno, California, called Chef Paul’s Cafe, emphasizing its authenticity and high-quality food.
They discuss the unique flavors and comfort food aspects of soul food cuisine, highlighting dishes like collard greens and oxtails.
The conversation touches upon the irony of finding excellent food in a “sketchy” town, suggesting that great experiences can be found in unexpected places.
Joe recommends against drinking water when enjoying soul food, encouraging the embrace of all the flavors and the overall experience.

11. The History of Taurine and its Use by Hitler

Joe and Greg discuss the origins of taurine, a stimulant found in Red Bull, and its historical association with bull semen.
They share a surprising revelation about Adolf Hitler’s use of bull semen as a sexual stimulant and his known cocaine addiction.
They connect Hitler’s vegetarianism to his flatulence, noting the connection between dietary fiber and gas production.
The conversation highlights the unexpected and sometimes humorous aspects of history and human behavior.

12. Farting, Social Norms, and the Humor of the Unexpected

Joe and Greg discuss the enjoyment they find in farting and the humor it brings to their lives, particularly within their families.
They share anecdotes about the frequency and intensity of their farts, highlighting the absurdity of this natural bodily function.
Joe explores the phenomenon of smells from butchered animals affecting people’s farts, even if they haven’t eaten the meat.
They discuss the science behind the health benefits of hydrogen sulfide, a component of farts, suggesting that farts might have therapeutic potential.

13. The Bizarre World of Fetish Porn and Humiliation

Joe and Greg discuss the bewildering world of fetish porn, particularly those involving farting in someone’s face.
They share a story about a woman who makes a living selling her bodily fluids, underwear, and other items to men who enjoy being humiliated.
They discuss a particularly disturbing story about a man who flew a prostitute to Colorado and paid her to stuff uncooked hamburger meat up his anus.
They explore the psychology behind these fetishes and the relationship between wealth, power, and the pursuit of unusual desires.

14. The Reality of Acupuncture and the Limits of Non-Medical Practitioners

Joe and Greg discuss the legitimacy of acupuncture and the distinction between doctors and other practitioners like chiropractors and acupuncturists.
Joe emphasizes the rigorous training required for medical doctors, contrasting it with the different qualifications of alternative practitioners.
They share a disturbing story about middle school students in Utah using tampons soaked in rubbing alcohol to get high, highlighting the potential dangers of experimenting with substances.
The conversation underscores the importance of seeking qualified medical advice and the risks associated with self-treating or engaging in dangerous practices.

15. The Political Landscape and the Impact of Social Media

Joe and Greg discuss the political landscape in the United States, focusing on the 2020 election and the potential for a polarized outcome.
They analyze the strategies and tactics employed by both Democrats and Republicans, particularly their use of social media to reach voters.
They express concern about censorship and shadow banning on social media platforms, arguing that it disproportionately affects conservative voices.
They highlight the influence of algorithms on shaping users’ online experiences and the potential for biased content recommendations.

16. The Impact of Transgender Issues on Sports and Society

Joe and Greg discuss the controversy surrounding transgender athletes competing in women’s sports, highlighting the potential for unfair advantages.
They analyze the argument that transgender women retain physical advantages from their biological male development, even after hormone therapy.
They express concern about the impact on female athletes who have trained their entire lives to compete against transgender athletes.
They propose the creation of a separate trans category in sports to ensure fairness and inclusivity.

17. The Dangers of Identity Politics and the Need for Nuance

Joe and Greg discuss the dangers of identity politics and the tendency to reduce complex issues to binary terms of “us vs. them.”
They critique the “woke culture” of compliance and the pressure to conform to specific ideological norms.
They discuss the controversy surrounding “cultural appropriation” and the absurdity of applying this concept to everyday cultural exchanges.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of individual expression, respecting diversity, and engaging in thoughtful dialogue.

18. The Need for Systemic Change and Addressing Inequality

Joe and Greg discuss the systemic issues that contribute to inequality in the United States, focusing on the legacies of slavery, redlining, and Jim Crow laws.
They explore the complexities of reparations and the need to address the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities.
They advocate for community-based solutions, including mentorship programs, preschool access, and job training initiatives.
The conversation explores the potential role of Democratic socialism in addressing these issues and the need for a shift in perspective from individual responsibility to collective action.

19. The Reality of Homelessness and the Role of Mental Illness

Joe and Greg discuss the challenges of homelessness in Los Angeles, noting the prevalence of mental illness and drug addiction among those experiencing homelessness.
They reflect on the closure of mental institutions during the Reagan administration and its impact on the current homeless population.
They highlight the difficulties of securing housing for those struggling with mental illness, particularly due to the lack of access to medication and treatment.
The conversation examines the need for comprehensive solutions that address both housing and mental health needs, emphasizing the importance of compassion and understanding.

20. The Importance of Sobriety and the Power of Human Connection

Joe and Greg discuss the inspiring story of Artie Lange’s 9-month sobriety journey, highlighting the transformative power of recovery.
They express concern about the risks of addiction and the challenges of avoiding relapse, particularly when dealing with pain or mental health issues.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of support systems, human connection, and fostering a sense of hope in those struggling with addiction.
They reflect on the loss of comedic icons like Mitch Hedberg and the fragility of life, reminding listeners to cherish those they love.

Memorable Quotes

“You can be just as crazy sober.” – Joe Rogan, reflecting on his experience with sobriety and the potential for joy and excitement without relying on substances.
“You gotta run a lot. You gotta get in shape. And then you do it a lot and you get used to it. The high doesn’t kick in right away. There’s some layers you gotta shed first.” – Greg Fitzsimmons, offering a humorous perspective on running as a potential replacement for drug-induced highs.
“It’s so hard to break free. Like, we as a community, as a giant 320 million person community, should be concentrating on fixing those spots, at least as much as we’re concentrating on fixing problems in other parts of the world.” – Joe Rogan, emphasizing the importance of addressing internal societal issues before focusing solely on global problems.
“That’s the ultimate biological trick. If they’ve ever that’s what’s gonna be really weird. Like, if you look at aliens. Right? One of what’s the the iconic alien? They have the big heads They have these little boy like bodies, long fingers. No dicks. Yeah. There’s nothing there. Right.” – Greg Fitzsimmons, humorously speculating on the potential future of humanity and the elimination of biological sex as a driver of behavior.
“I think a big part of what’s wrong in this world is that we’re dealing with a lot of communication that’s not face to face, a lot of a lot of it. Whether it’s, you know, he said, she said shit where, like, you know, you have a a problem with this guy and then another guy tells you he said some shit about you.” – Joe Rogan, lamenting the decline of face-to-face communication and the spread of rumors and misinformation in the digital age.

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