26-Jun-21
Joe Rogan Podcast #1674: Clay Newcomb – Topic Breakdown
This podcast delves into the fascinating world of Clay Newcomb, a seventh-generation Arkansan, hunter, mule skinner, and passionate observer of rural culture. Clay’s passion for bear hunting and the sustainable use of its resources takes center stage. The conversation explores the rich history of bear hunting in North America, its cultural significance, and its role in conservation efforts. Provocative topics include the myth of the black panther, the controversy surrounding trophy hunting, and the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of human identity and the natural world. Underlying themes examine the profound respect for animals, the value of traditional knowledge, and the need for nuanced discussions about hunting and conservation.
1. Bear Grease as a Metaphor:
Clay Newcomb’s podcast, “Bear Grease,” gets its name from a historically valuable commodity that has since been largely forgotten.
The metaphor extends beyond the physical substance, representing forgotten yet relevant knowledge and insights.
The podcast aims to uncover hidden wisdom and perspectives that are often overlooked in modern society.
Bear grease, once used as currency, symbolizes the importance of preserving and understanding the cultural and ecological significance of things that have fallen out of common knowledge.
2. The Forgotten Value of Bear Hunting:
Bear hunting was a cornerstone of the American frontier, providing sustenance and essential resources.
The podcast challenges the perception that bear hunting is unnecessary or harmful, emphasizing its historical importance and its potential for responsible resource management.
The discussion highlights the wide range of uses for bear fat, from cooking to medicinal properties, demonstrating its value beyond mere consumption.
Clay Newcomb argues that bear hunting can be an essential tool for controlling bear populations and ensuring ecological balance.
3. The Cultural Significance of Bear Hunting:
The podcast explores the rich history of bear hunting among indigenous populations, highlighting the deep respect for bears as powerful and spiritual creatures.
Clay Newcomb shares traditional rules and taboos associated with bear hunting among the Koyukon people of Alaska, illustrating the cultural significance of the practice.
The discussion dives into the spiritual and cultural connections between bears and humans, emphasizing the importance of understanding and honoring these traditions.
The podcast raises questions about how modern society has lost touch with these traditions and the potential consequences of that disconnect.
4. The Role of Bear Hunting in Conservation:
Clay Newcomb makes a compelling argument for the role of bear hunting in conservation, particularly in a world of growing human populations and habitat fragmentation.
He emphasizes the need for population management to prevent overgrazing and conflicts with humans.
The podcast highlights the importance of responsible hunting practices, advocating for the selective harvest of older, mature males to ensure healthy breeding populations.
The discussion refutes the misconception that hunting is inherently harmful, highlighting its potential for promoting wildlife sustainability.
5. The Myth of the Black Panther:
The podcast delves into the intriguing myth of the black panther in the American South, exploring the cultural fascination with the elusive creature.
Clay Newcomb shares his personal encounter with a large, dark-colored cat in his backyard, sparking speculation about the possibility of a jaguarundi, a species native to Texas.
The discussion raises questions about the nature of myths, the role of folklore, and the importance of critical thinking in evaluating anecdotal evidence.
The podcast explores the psychological and cultural factors that contribute to the persistence of myths and the ways in which they shape our understanding of the natural world.
6. The Controversy of Trophy Hunting:
Clay Newcomb challenges the negative perception of trophy hunting, arguing that it has played a critical role in preserving North American wildlife.
He explains the historical context of market hunting and its devastating impact on wildlife populations, highlighting the role of Boone and Crockett Club in establishing a new ethic based on selective harvest.
The podcast advocates for a nuanced understanding of trophy hunting, emphasizing its potential for conservation and promoting the responsible management of wildlife populations.
The discussion urges listeners to move beyond simplistic narratives and consider the complex realities of hunting and conservation.
7. The Importance of Human Connection to the Land:
The podcast explores the profound connection between human identity and the natural world, emphasizing the role of hunting in shaping American culture.
Clay Newcomb reflects on how hunting has influenced his life, his family, and his understanding of the world.
He advocates for a renewed appreciation for wild places and the need for a more authentic portrayal of hunting in modern society.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of storytelling in bridging the gap between urban and rural cultures, fostering a deeper understanding of human relationships with the land.
8. The Power of Storytelling:
Clay Newcomb highlights the power of stories in shaping our understanding of the world and influencing our values.
He shares the impact of a historical account of a bear hunting tragedy on his family, highlighting how stories can connect us to the past and shape our present.
The podcast underscores the importance of transmitting these stories, both historical and personal, to preserve cultural heritage and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
The discussion explores how stories can bridge cultural divides, illuminate hidden truths, and inspire a greater appreciation for the complexities of human experience.
9. The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions:
The podcast examines the role of media in shaping public perceptions of hunting, highlighting the prevalence of negative stereotypes and simplistic narratives.
Clay Newcomb challenges the media’s tendency to portray hunters as villains or reckless individuals, emphasizing the need for more nuanced and authentic representations.
The discussion explores the impact of these depictions on public policy and the challenges of promoting conservation efforts in a world saturated with negative stereotypes.
The podcast advocates for greater media literacy and a more critical examination of the stories we consume, challenging us to move beyond simplistic narratives and embrace the complexities of human relationships with the natural world.
10. The Importance of Personal Connection:
Clay Newcomb emphasizes the importance of personal connection in understanding hunting and conservation, encouraging listeners to engage with hunters and learn from their experiences.
He shares his own journey of becoming a hunter, inspired by the work of Steve Rinella and the MeatEater podcast.
The podcast underscores the importance of direct engagement and open dialogue in bridging the gap between diverse perspectives.
The discussion encourages listeners to move beyond stereotypes and seek out authentic narratives that can deepen our understanding of hunting and conservation.
11. The Ecological Significance of Raccoons:
The podcast delves into the often-overlooked ecological significance of raccoons, highlighting their adaptability and increasing population in a world of human encroachment.
Clay Newcomb discusses the practice of raccoon hunting for their fur and the role it plays in population control.
The discussion challenges the assumption that all wildlife should be protected, emphasizing the need for responsible management practices.
The podcast explores the complexities of wildlife conservation in an era of human-dominated landscapes.
12. The Mystery of the Jaguarundi:
The podcast revisits Clay Newcomb’s sighting of a large, dark-colored cat in his backyard, exploring the possibility of a jaguarundi, a rare and elusive feline.
The discussion examines the challenge of identifying wild animals, particularly in low-light conditions, and the potential for misinterpretations.
The podcast explores the role of skepticism in scientific inquiry, urging listeners to remain open-minded yet critical in evaluating evidence.
The conversation highlights the enduring fascination with mysterious creatures and the ongoing quest to uncover hidden truths about the natural world.
13. The Importance of Nuanced Discussions:
The podcast emphasizes the importance of nuanced discussions about hunting and conservation, urging listeners to move beyond simplistic narratives and engage with complex issues.
Clay Newcomb advocates for a deeper understanding of the historical context, cultural significance, and ecological realities of hunting.
The discussion underscores the need for open dialogue, respectful debate, and critical thinking in addressing the challenges of wildlife management in a changing world.
The podcast challenges listeners to engage with diverse perspectives and embrace the complexities of human relationships with the natural world.
14. The Value of Traditional Knowledge:
The podcast underscores the importance of traditional knowledge, particularly in understanding the intricate relationships between humans and wildlife.
Clay Newcomb highlights the wisdom embodied in the rules and taboos of indigenous cultures, demonstrating their enduring relevance in modern conservation efforts.
The discussion emphasizes the need to preserve and learn from these traditions, recognizing their potential to inform sustainable practices and protect biodiversity.
The podcast encourages listeners to embrace a more holistic and respectful approach to understanding the natural world.
15. The Impact of Human Progress on Wildlife:
The podcast examines the profound impact of human progress on wildlife populations, exploring the complex interplay of technology, habitat loss, and changing social values.
Clay Newcomb reflects on the dramatic shifts in wildlife populations over the past few centuries, highlighting the importance of understanding these historical trends to inform future conservation efforts.
The discussion challenges listeners to consider the unintended consequences of technological advancements and the importance of responsible stewardship in a rapidly changing world.
The podcast encourages listeners to engage in critical thinking, seeking a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human actions and the health of the natural world.
16. The Enduring Fascination with Mules:
The podcast delves into the enduring fascination with mules, exploring their unique qualities and their historical significance in transportation and work.
Clay Newcomb shares his experience with mules, highlighting their strength, endurance, and remarkable surefootedness in challenging terrain.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific traits and needs of mules, advocating for responsible breeding and training practices.
The podcast celebrates the unique characteristics of mules and their ongoing role in rural life and outdoor recreation.
17. The Importance of Ethical Meat Consumption:
The podcast encourages listeners to consider the ethical implications of meat consumption, emphasizing the need for responsible and sustainable practices.
Clay Newcomb highlights the value of knowing the source of your meat, advocating for ethical ranching and regenerative farming practices.
The discussion challenges the perception that hunting is inherently cruel, emphasizing the importance of respecting animals and utilizing their resources sustainably.
The podcast encourages listeners to engage in thoughtful discussions about food choices, acknowledging the complex realities of food production and the need for responsible consumption practices.
18. The Evolution of Hunting Culture:
The podcast traces the evolution of hunting culture, highlighting the shifts from market hunting to a more conservation-focused approach.
Clay Newcomb shares his perspective on the changing attitudes towards hunting and the need for responsible management practices.
The discussion underscores the importance of historical context in understanding modern hunting practices and the ongoing need for adaptation and evolution in response to changing circumstances.
The podcast encourages listeners to engage in critical discussions about hunting, acknowledging its complexities and its potential for positive change.
19. The Power of Respect and Appreciation:
The podcast emphasizes the importance of respect and appreciation for all animals, regardless of their size or perceived value.
Clay Newcomb shares his perspective on the interconnectedness of life and the need for a more holistic approach to understanding the natural world.
The discussion encourages listeners to move beyond anthropocentric views and cultivate a greater sense of empathy and reverence for all living creatures.
The podcast advocates for a deeper understanding of the complex and delicate web of life, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of responsible stewardship.
20. The Importance of Dialogue and Understanding:
The podcast concludes with a powerful call for dialogue and understanding, urging listeners to engage in respectful conversations about hunting and conservation.
Clay Newcomb emphasizes the importance of bridging cultural divides and fostering a more informed and empathetic society.
The discussion challenges listeners to move beyond stereotypes and engage with diverse perspectives, seeking a greater appreciation for the complexities of human relationships with the natural world.
The podcast leaves listeners with a sense of hope and a call to action, encouraging them to participate in constructive conversations and build a more sustainable and harmonious future for all.
5 Memorable Quotes:
“If you polled the United States, 330 million Americans, and you said, ‘What is bear grease?’ I mean, like, what percentage of people would even know what it was? Probably, like, 1 percent of 1 percent.” – Clay highlights the forgotten knowledge surrounding bear grease, illustrating the need for rediscovering and appreciating traditional practices.
“We use more of a bear than we do almost any other big game animal that we hunt.” – Clay emphasizes the sustainable and resourceful nature of bear hunting, emphasizing the utilization of various parts of the animal.
“Bears are thriving. And so why that makes sense that right now that people would begin to be re interested in hunting bears is that we’ve got more people on this continent than we’ve ever had, obviously. We’ve got more overlap of bear country and humans.” – Clay links the increasing interest in bear hunting to the growing human population and the increasing overlap between human habitats and bear territories.
“The American frontier was fueled by bear meat and bear fat.” – This striking statement underscores the historical significance of bear hunting in shaping the American identity and pioneering spirit.
“I think we’re seeing the extremes inside of stuff like this, which is not something we necessarily focus on. That’s a that’s a big issue with perceptions of people who don’t hunt. Non hunters perceptions are a lot of times based on grip and grins.” – Clay challenges the media’s tendency to focus on the most sensational and extreme aspects of hunting, contributing to misconceptions and distorted perceptions.