JRE #158 – Doug Benson

This podcast is a hilarious and free-flowing conversation between Joe Rogan and comedian Doug Benson, covering a wide range of topics, including sexual experiences, drug use, the internet, and social commentary. The underlying theme is a celebration of personal freedom and a critique of societal pressures, all while maintaining a lighthearted and humorous tone.

• The Fleshlight Commercial

  Joe and Doug discuss the Fleshlight, a sex toy for men, during a “commercial break.” They engage in humorous banter, making light of the product’s purpose. The Fleshlight becomes a recurring gag throughout the podcast.

  Joe promotes the Fleshlight as the “number 1 sex toy for men” and offers a discount code.

  Doug is initially skeptical but eventually agrees that the Fleshlight is “awesome to beat off.”

  The “controversy” surrounding the commercial is a playful jab at the perception that this type of humor is inappropriate or offensive.

• The Internet’s Dark Side

  The conversation delves into the dark underbelly of the internet. Joe and Doug express shock and amusement at the ease with which explicit and disturbing content can be found.

  The “Goatee Asshole Guy” meme serves as a powerful symbol of the internet’s potential for both absurdity and exploitation.

  They discuss the pervasiveness of graphic images and the need for boundaries and understanding in a world where such content is readily available.

  The theme of online anonymity is subtly explored, raising questions about the responsibility and consequences of sharing explicit material.

• The Benefits of Nootropics

  Joe promotes Alpha Brain, a cognitive enhancer, and New Mood, a mood-boosting supplement, both products he sells on his website.

  He emphasizes the importance of brain health and the potential for nootropics to improve cognitive function and mood.

  Doug initially expresses skepticism but eventually agrees to try Alpha Brain.

  The conversation highlights the growing interest in natural remedies and supplements for enhancing mental well-being.

• The Impact of Stimulants on Creativity

  Joe and Doug discuss the use of stimulants, specifically caffeine and Adderall, and their potential effects on creativity and productivity.

  Joe argues that caffeine can kill a creative buzz.

  Doug avoids caffeine and other stimulants due to their potential to interfere with his creative process.

  The conversation explores the complex relationship between creativity, mental state, and substance use.

• The Gender Divide in Sexual Health

  Joe and Doug engage in a humorous but thought-provoking discussion about the differences in sexual health and hygiene between men and women.

  They contrast the relative simplicity of male sexual health with the complexities of female reproductive health.

  Joe uses analogies like car maintenance to illustrate the contrasting experiences, highlighting the burden of responsibility placed on women.

  The conversation subtly touches on the issues of gender roles and the expectations placed on men and women in a patriarchal society.

• The Importance of Being Home

  Doug talks about his nomadic lifestyle as a comedian and his desire to balance travel with time spent at home.

  He prefers short tours and values having a consistent routine that includes regular periods of rest and rejuvenation.

  The conversation explores the challenges of maintaining a personal life while on the road.

  It also implicitly discusses the importance of finding a balance between work and personal fulfillment.

• The Stress of Touring

  Doug discusses the challenges of touring and the potential for stress and injury, drawing on his own experience and the experiences of other comedians.

  He shares anecdotes about the “Tourgasm” comedy tour, where Robert Kelly, a comedian, suffered a broken arm.

  The conversation highlights the sacrifices and risks that comedians take for their craft, but also the importance of finding a healthy balance.

  The theme of self-care and prioritizing mental and physical well-being is implicitly addressed.

• The Impact of Social Media on Comedy

  Joe and Doug discuss the evolution of comedy and the impact of social media on the industry.

  They acknowledge the power of social media to connect with audiences and promote careers, but also the potential for negativity and distraction.

  Joe reflects on the challenges of having a mainstream show in a world where social media constantly provides feedback and commentary.

  The conversation explores the evolving landscape of comedy and the role of social media in shaping the industry’s future.

• The “Occupy Wall Street” Movement

  Joe and Doug discuss the “Occupy Wall Street” movement, expressing support for the protesters’ message and frustration with the government’s response.

  They criticize Mayor Bloomberg’s decision to clear out protesters from Zuccotti Park, arguing that it was motivated by the interests of corporations rather than public safety.

  They express concern about the escalating violence and the use of excessive force by law enforcement against protesters.

  The conversation highlights the growing economic inequality and the need for greater social justice.

• The Corrupting Influence of Money

  Joe and Doug engage in a passionate discussion about the corrupting influence of money in politics and society.

  They criticize the political system, arguing that it is designed to favor the wealthy and powerful at the expense of ordinary citizens.

  They express concern about the growing disparity between the rich and the poor and the lack of effective leadership.

  The conversation highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in government and a renewed focus on social justice.

• The Question of War

  Joe and Doug discuss the ongoing wars in the Middle East and express skepticism about the official justifications for American military involvement.

  They question the motives behind the wars, suggesting that they are primarily driven by economic interests, including the control of oil resources.

  They express concern about the high cost of war, both in terms of human lives and financial resources.

  The conversation explores the complexities of foreign policy and the ethical dilemmas surrounding military interventions.

• The Allure and Danger of Belief Systems

  Joe and Doug discuss the nature of belief systems, highlighting both their power to inspire and their potential for harm.

  They acknowledge the human need for a sense of belonging and purpose but warn against the dangers of blind faith and unquestioning obedience.

  The conversation implicitly explores the importance of critical thinking and the need to challenge authority.

  They use the example of Scientology to illustrate the potential for harmful consequences when belief systems become rigid and controlling.

• The Power of Personal Transformation

  Joe and Doug discuss the transformative power of personal growth and the importance of embracing self-discovery.

  They share anecdotes about comedians who have made significant personal and professional transformations.

  The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding your voice and staying true to yourself.

  The theme of self-acceptance and the courage to be authentic is implicitly explored.

• The Evolution of Video Games

  Joe and Doug reminisce about their experiences with video games, from the early days of arcades to the current era of online gaming.

  They share fond memories of classic arcade games like “Dragon’s Lair” and “Pac-Man” and discuss the impact of home computers on the gaming industry.

  The conversation explores the changing landscape of gaming and the enduring appeal of video games as a form of entertainment.

  They also touch on the role of video games in developing cognitive skills and fostering social connections.

• The Allure and Risks of Gambling

  Joe and Doug discuss the allure and risks of gambling, drawing on their own experiences with poker and other games.

  They highlight the addictive nature of gambling and the potential for financial ruin.

  They also acknowledge the thrill of competition and the camaraderie that can develop among gamblers.

  The conversation explores the complex relationship between risk, reward, and the human desire for excitement.

• The Future of Technology and Humanity

  Joe and Doug engage in a speculative discussion about the future of technology and its impact on humanity.

  They explore the possibilities of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and other emerging technologies.

  They consider the potential benefits and risks of these advancements, including the possibility of greater connection or isolation, enhanced capabilities or diminished human agency.

  The conversation highlights the ongoing evolution of the human experience in a rapidly changing world.

• The Importance of Humor in a Difficult World

  Joe and Doug emphasize the importance of laughter and humor as a coping mechanism in a world filled with challenges and anxieties.

  They discuss the therapeutic benefits of humor and its power to bring people together.

  The conversation implicitly celebrates the power of human resilience and the importance of finding joy in the face of adversity.

  They use their own experiences as comedians to illustrate the role of humor in navigating difficult situations and connecting with audiences.

• The Power of the Podcast

  Joe and Doug reflect on the impact and potential of podcasting as a platform for sharing ideas, fostering connections, and building communities.

  Joe highlights the authenticity of podcasting and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

  Doug discusses the opportunities podcasting provides for comedians to reach a wider audience and share their perspectives.

  The conversation celebrates the power of conversation and the potential for podcasting to create meaningful connections and shared experiences.

Memorable Quotes:

• “It’s not really a commercial, dude. It’s a commercial, it’s not commercial. Exactly. That’s what we’re doing every time. Every one of them is organic. Every one of them is just us fucking around.”
• “That is the Internet, man. You know, there’s a photo. I forget I I somebody, you know, was one of those memes and it was a kid that was horrified. It was photoshopped obviously. And right in front of this kid’s face was the Goatee asshole. And it just said, ‘Welcome to the Internet.'”
• “That’s with our politics in this country is those people are not paying for the politicians. Exactly. They’re not making it contributions that keep It’s a second. It’s not racist. It’s not racist. It’s a lot of poor white people. Oh, yeah. The poverty level. So ridiculous. Is this So the Kentucky brothers doesn’t matter, man. It doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter. It’s not about that. It’s about people that are in despair. And for anyone to say that they should just suffer. That’s ridiculous. You know, some people can’t do it on their own, man. Some people need a little help. Some people need to be shown how. You know, we need We need a nation with someone who’s an actual guide, someone who can offer real guidance. And now they’re not doing that, man. It’s just a money grab. It’s a money grab by all these fucking corporate whores.”
• “The worst Your first time is usually the best too within the the next 10 times. Even But some people get extra charisma bump to them. You know what I mean? Like, I bet you the first sets of, like, Bill Hicks, Eddie Murphy — Yes. — you know, Yeah. Spade started really early, rock started really early. Like, those guys were probably, you know, very Pretty decent their first time out, you know, just because you know, that it’s that charismatic personality.”
• “It’s so bizarre. Not ever, of course. I’m just kidding. I mean, I’m sure a lot of Middle Eastern countries and a lot of, you know, South American countries, they’re pretty corrupt, Joe. But the fact that we’re we’re this wonky, you know? And then everybody wants to stand up and say, ‘If you don’t fucking like it, you should get up. You don’t like it, you should leave Merka.’ You know, like, there’s there’s so many Rah Rah fans out there. Not liking it is what the whole country’s been built up exactly. That was the idea is that every everybody gets to contribute. It’s called the democracy and we’re all supposed to participate and and help one another. Yeah. And now it’s just like it’s becoming so every man for himself. The the disparity between the richest beat the richest one percent and the poorest people is it’s just insane the difference. It’s goddamn money grab out there.”