JRE #1477 – Tony Hawk

Joe Rogan Experience #1477 – Tony Hawk Podcast Topics

This podcast takes us on a journey with Tony Hawk, the legendary skateboarder. From his early days to his present life, we explore the evolution of skateboarding, the impact of technology, and the mental and physical demands of his sport. Provocative topics are addressed, including the dangers of head injuries, the importance of community, and the evolving landscape of skateboarding. Underlying themes delve into the enduring passion for a craft, the power of defying expectations, and the journey of a true icon.

Topic 1: Tony Hawk’s Early Days and Skateboarding’s Evolution

• Tony Hawk started skateboarding at a young age, influenced by his older brother who was a surfer and skated in the 70s.
• Skateboarding in the 70s and 80s was more about emulating surfing and skating pools, later transitioning to street skating as skate parks declined.
• The internet played a significant role in popularizing and showcasing skateboarding to a wider audience, leveling the playing field for skaters around the world.
• The emergence of the X Games helped bring skateboarding back into the mainstream, establishing it as a legitimate sport and showcasing its athleticism and risk-taking aspects.

Topic 2: Tony Hawk’s Rise to Fame and the Power of Longevity

• Tony Hawk turned pro at the young age of 14, proving his exceptional talent even within a smaller skateboarding scene.
• He survived the skateboarding slump of the early 90s, maintaining his passion and developing other skills like video editing.
• The X Games and the release of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game in 1999 propelled him to mainstream fame, solidifying his status as the most prominent skateboarder of his generation.
• Hawk’s sustained success over decades highlights the importance of perseverance and adaptability, challenging the perception that skateboarding is a young person’s sport.

Topic 3: The Risks of Skateboarding and Head Injuries

• Skateboarding inherently involves a high degree of risk, particularly with tricks involving big jumps and handrails.
• Tony Hawk has experienced numerous concussions throughout his career, highlighting the prevalence of head injuries in the sport.
• The podcast touches upon the growing concern of CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) among athletes who experience repetitive head trauma, prompting Hawk to get tested and take proactive measures to mitigate risk.
• Discussion of supplements like Nuro 1 and Alpha Brain reinforces the growing awareness and focus on brain health and cognitive function among athletes and the general public.

Topic 4: The Mental and Physical Demands of Skateboarding

• Tony Hawk emphasizes the importance of staying physically fit, although he acknowledges that he hasn’t always prioritized strength and conditioning.
• The podcast discusses the benefits of swimming, an exercise that Hawk’s mother swore by, as well as the intense, unconventional workouts of big wave surfer Laird Hamilton.
• Hawk’s focus on mastering technical aspects of skateboarding rather than big impact tricks has allowed him to maintain his athleticism and creativity as he’s aged.
• The conversation explores the evolving understanding of athletic performance and recovery, with athletes embracing various techniques like pool workouts and specific supplements to support their physical and mental well-being.

Topic 5: Tony Hawk’s Foundation for Public Skate Parks and the Importance of Community

• Tony Hawk has been running a foundation dedicated to building public skate parks for over 20 years, providing resources and funding for communities to create spaces for skaters.
• The foundation has funded over 900 skate parks across all 50 states, highlighting Hawk’s dedication to giving back to the skateboarding community.
• Hawk emphasizes the importance of skate parks in providing a sense of belonging and community for skaters, particularly for those who might feel ostracized in other areas of their lives.
• The conversation underscores the significance of fostering a sense of community and belonging, especially for youth who are discovering their passions and seeking connection within shared interests.

Topic 6: The Changing Landscape of Skateboarding and the Rise of Inclusivity

• Skateboarding has become increasingly inclusive, with more girls and women participating in the sport.
• Tony Hawk attributes this positive shift in part to the wider acceptance of skateboarding by parents and the growing number of female skaters who are inspiring younger generations.
• The podcast highlights the evolution of skateboarding culture, moving away from the narrow, often exclusionary attitudes of the past.
• This change underscores the ongoing importance of representation and visibility, particularly in sports and activities that have historically been dominated by certain demographics.

Topic 7: The Impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic on Skateboarding and Society

• The pandemic has disrupted skateboarding events and competitions, leading to cancellations and postponements.
• The conversation explores the challenges of navigating a new normal, with uncertainties surrounding travel and the future of events.
• The pandemic has also highlighted societal divides and differing perspectives on public health measures, even within communities that are generally considered to be healthy and active.
• The podcast underscores the complexities of navigating a global crisis, highlighting the need for flexibility, adaptability, and a shared commitment to public health.

Topic 8: Skateboarding’s Entry into the Olympics and Its Impact

• Skateboarding will be included in the Olympics for the first time in 2021, marking a significant milestone for the sport.
• The conversation explores the scoring criteria and judging process used in Olympic skateboarding, emphasizing the need for clear and consistent guidelines.
• While there is some controversy among hardcore skaters about skateboarding’s inclusion in the Olympics, Tony Hawk believes it will introduce the sport to a wider international audience and inspire new skaters.
• The podcast highlights the evolving nature of sports and the impact of global events like the Olympics on the perception and popularity of various disciplines.

Topic 9: The Future of Skateboarding and the Pursuit of Passion

• Tony Hawk’s continued passion for skateboarding serves as an inspiration for younger skaters, demonstrating that age shouldn’t be a barrier to pursuing a passion.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in activities that are personally meaningful, even if they aren’t necessarily the most popular or lucrative.
• The conversation delves into the potential for innovation in skateboarding, exploring the possibilities of new materials and techniques that could further advance the sport.
• The podcast concludes with a message of optimism and encouragement, emphasizing the power of pursuing one’s passions and the endless potential for growth and discovery within any field.

5 Memorable Quotes

• “I’m not gonna be able to skate anymore if I keep doing this.” – Tony Hawk reflects on the physical toll of street skating, highlighting the importance of adapting one’s approach to stay healthy.
• “I never did it for the money. There were no Richard Hammonds from skating.” – Tony Hawk emphasizes the passion-driven nature of his pursuit, contrasting it with purely commercial ambitions.
• “You guys know, this is we’re we’re comfortable at the certain height. Let’s just stick with that.” – Tony Hawk discusses the evolution of big air ramps in the X Games, highlighting the importance of safety and risk management.
• “I’m not putting myself out there to be to to have concussions anymore.” – Tony Hawk demonstrates a newfound awareness of the potential long-term effects of head injuries, underscoring the importance of personal health and well-being.
• “I’m just so thankful that I still get to do this for a living. Like, this is seriously living the dream.” – Tony Hawk expresses gratitude for his ongoing career, highlighting the fulfillment he finds in pursuing his passion.