JRE #1461 – Owen Smith

by

21-Apr-20






Joe Rogan Podcast Topics: #1461 – Owen Smith

Joe Rogan Podcast Topics: #1461 – Owen Smith

This podcast features a conversation with comedian, writer, and actor Owen Smith. The conversation spans a variety of topics, from the current pandemic and the economy to personal experiences with dogs, relationships, and even the dangers of celebrity worship. The podcast is peppered with humor and insights about life and how we navigate the world.

  1. COVID-19 Antibody Tests and Controversy

    • Joe Rogan’s decision to test all guests entering his studio sparks a debate.
    • Public misunderstanding and confusion regarding the availability of antibody tests.
    • Concerns about the testing process potentially diverting resources from essential workers.
    • Joe Rogan emphasizes his commitment to public health and clarifies that his testing practices don’t impact frontline workers.

  2. Early Antibody Tests Indicate Far More Cases and Lower Mortality Rate

    • A new study suggests that COVID-19 may have infected far more people than initially thought.
    • The study suggests a lower mortality rate than previously believed, particularly in California.
    • The conversation highlights the variability of the disease and factors that may contribute to its severity, including physical condition, smoking habits, and exercise.
    • Joe Rogan emphasizes the need for continued research and understanding of the virus.

  3. Racial Tensions and Misinformation During the Pandemic

    • Owen Smith shares his experience of feeling more cautious and fearful during the pandemic.
    • The conversation discusses the spread of misinformation about the virus’s impact on different communities.
    • The podcast delves into the story of a friend whose father, who was a part of a Black ski trip organization, passed away from the virus.
    • The conversation reflects on the anxieties surrounding the virus and the impact on individual behavior.

  4. The Impact of the Pandemic on the Economy and Restaurants

    • Joe Rogan highlights the economic devastation caused by the pandemic, particularly impacting the restaurant industry.
    • The conversation touches on the Small Business Loan program and its shortcomings.
    • The podcast explores the precarious state of many restaurants and the potential for widespread closures.
    • The discussion emphasizes the need for government support and strategies to sustain businesses and workers.

  5. The Wealth Gap and the Pandemic

    • Joe Rogan addresses the vast wealth of tech giants like Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates.
    • He ponders the potential impact of a wealth redistribution plan by Jeff Bezos.
    • The conversation reflects on the stark contrast between the financial security of some and the struggles of many during the pandemic.
    • The podcast questions the role of wealth in shaping societal outcomes and the potential for philanthropic action.

  6. The Role of Surveillance and Privacy During the Pandemic

    • The podcast explores the use of surveillance technologies in China, including social credit scores.
    • The conversation expresses concerns about the potential for increased surveillance in the US and its impact on freedom and privacy.
    • The discussion highlights the potential for surveillance to be used for political control and manipulation.
    • Joe Rogan emphasizes the importance of safeguarding freedom and the right to criticize the government.

  7. The 2020 Presidential Election and Political Division

    • The podcast touches on the 2020 presidential election and the polarization of American politics.
    • Joe Rogan analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of both Donald Trump and Joe Biden as candidates.
    • He explores the anxieties and concerns surrounding both candidates and their approaches to leadership.
    • The podcast raises questions about the state of American democracy and the future of political discourse.

  8. The Importance of Leadership During a Crisis

    • Joe Rogan emphasizes the importance of strong leadership, particularly during a crisis like the pandemic.
    • He reflects on the need for empathy, clear communication, and transparency from leaders.
    • The podcast criticizes the lack of empathy and effective communication from Donald Trump.
    • Joe Rogan praises the efforts of local leaders, including governors, who are actively trying to address the crisis.

  9. The Dangers of Political Tribalism

    • Joe Rogan expresses concerns about the growing polarization of society and the dangers of political tribalism.
    • He highlights the tendency to lump people into categories and ignore individual uniqueness.
    • The conversation reflects on how political divisions can create societal divisions and foster conflict.
    • Joe Rogan advocates for a more nuanced and individualistic approach to understanding each other.

  10. The Role of Religion and Ethics in Society

    • The podcast explores the potential benefits and drawbacks of religion as a system of belief.
    • Joe Rogan questions the literal interpretation of religious texts and the potential for extremism.
    • He acknowledges the ethical guidance provided by religion for many, while also questioning its potential for harm.
    • The conversation encourages a balanced perspective on religion and its role in shaping individual beliefs and actions.

  11. The Importance of Discipline and Structure in Life

    • The podcast reflects on the challenges of navigating life without a strong sense of structure or discipline.
    • Joe Rogan cites examples of individuals who struggled with addiction and a lack of direction.
    • He highlights the importance of personal rules and boundaries as a framework for navigating life’s challenges.
    • The podcast acknowledges the importance of personal accountability and the consequences of inaction.

  12. The Second Amendment and Gun Ownership

    • Joe Rogan shares his perspective on gun ownership and the Second Amendment.
    • He discusses the shift in his friends’ attitudes towards gun ownership during the pandemic.
    • The podcast highlights the anxieties surrounding safety and security, leading some to seek firearms.
    • Joe Rogan emphasizes the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for proper training.

  13. The Allure and Dangers of Celebrity Worship

    • The podcast explores the phenomenon of celebrity worship and its impact on individuals.
    • Joe Rogan shares his own experiences with celebrities, including his encounter with Ludacris.
    • He questions the boundaries between fans and celebrities and the potential for misinterpretation.
    • The conversation reflects on the pressures and expectations placed on celebrities and the challenges they face.

  14. The Importance of Finding Purpose in Life

    • The podcast delves into the search for meaning and purpose in life.
    • Joe Rogan emphasizes the importance of finding something that ignites passion and a sense of fulfillment.
    • He shares examples of individuals who have found purpose in various pursuits, including cooking and comedy.
    • The conversation inspires listeners to embrace their passions and find their own paths to fulfillment.

  15. The Nature of Comedy and Artistic Expression

    • The podcast highlights the unique approaches to comedy and the diversity of artistic expression.
    • Joe Rogan discusses the importance of finding your own voice and style as a comedian.
    • He emphasizes the role of experience and practice in developing a strong comedic voice.
    • The conversation celebrates the power of comedy to entertain, provoke thought, and challenge societal norms.

  16. The Importance of Personal Growth and Evolution

    • The podcast explores the concept of personal growth and the process of evolving as an individual.
    • Joe Rogan discusses the importance of self-awareness and the willingness to change and adapt.
    • He reflects on his own journey as a comedian and the lessons he has learned along the way.
    • The conversation encourages listeners to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and continually strive for improvement.

  17. The Animal Kingdom and the Human Relationship with Nature

    • The podcast delves into the fascinating and often brutal nature of the animal kingdom.
    • Joe Rogan discusses the ethical implications of human interaction with animals, including food production and wildlife conservation.
    • He reflects on the complex relationships between predator and prey and the natural hierarchy of life.
    • The conversation raises questions about the responsibility of humans to respect and protect the natural world.

  18. The Power of Storytelling and the Impact of Media

    • Joe Rogan explores the power of storytelling and the impact of media on society.
    • He discusses the role of entertainment in shaping our understanding of the world and influencing our beliefs.
    • The conversation touches on the rise of online platforms like YouTube and the evolving landscape of media consumption.
    • Joe Rogan reflects on the responsibility of storytellers to present authentic and insightful narratives that resonate with audiences.

  19. The Search for Truth in a World of Conflicting Information

    • The podcast delves into the challenges of navigating a world filled with conflicting information and misinformation.
    • Joe Rogan discusses the importance of critical thinking and the need to seek out credible sources.
    • He highlights the dangers of relying solely on social media and the need to be discerning consumers of information.
    • The conversation encourages listeners to cultivate a healthy skepticism and to approach information with a critical eye.

5 Memorable Quotes

  • “People have weird sense of humor. Right? Like, if you listen to comics, and if you took some of the shit that we say, They’re gonna tell him, but it’s just a terrible baby. Yeah. Yeah. They’re eating babies. They’re they’re they’re they’re raping old ladies. You know? Like, we we say ridiculous shit all the time, and we get used to it. Right. Maybe they say ridiculous shit too.” – This quote highlights the potential for misinterpretation when dealing with humor and how people process information, particularly when it comes to public figures.
  • “The world’s not that safe. It’s just safe right now. We hit a real good spot, man. You and I were born in an amazing time. I don’t know. Could you imagine. We’re born in a time where people are getting it together. Right? We’re not together all the way. Yeah. But we’re getting it together. Yeah. We’re getting it together.” – This quote reflects on a sense of optimism and belief in the potential for human progress, despite the challenges we face.
  • “That is not like There was horrible question. Yeah. You do it. Like, it’s a nasty question. It’s Christian. You should Just like, come on, man. Yeah. It’s it’s bad in those ways.” – This quote criticizes the use of divisive rhetoric and harmful language in political discourse.
  • “It’s a trap that robs you of your perspective, and it it lumps you in with a bunch of other assholes. You know? Like, there’s some women that, like, all girl powered out. You know, like, listen. There’s a lot of girls that are amazing, but there’s a lot of girls that will you don’t want them on your team. You know?” – This quote points out the dangers of generalizing about entire groups of people and the importance of treating each person as an individual.
  • “I do wanna do a parody of of an NPR show. because they because they because now they play, like, dramatic music and shit. Of course. When they tell stories, like, and you’ll be listening to it, and then they’ll be like, and then no. No. I’m I’m confusing with the Daily. I’m I’m just so Radio Lab. Is radio Lab an NPR show? Is radio Lab put together by NPR? Mike, tomorrow in a daily his showman. He became a dramatic music — Oh, yeah. — and then Trump. He’s like, oh, is he good? I love it. I love it. I love it. Yeah.” – This quote highlights the distinct style and presentation of different media outlets and how they cater to different audiences. It also reflects on how our perceptions of information can be influenced by how it is presented.