JRE #1754 – Suzanne Santo

This podcast features Suzanne Santo, a multifaceted artist known for her work as an actress, model, and singer-songwriter. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, ranging from Santo’s personal experiences with pressure and anxiety to insightful reflections on society’s current state. Provocative themes explored include the impact of societal pressures on identity, the complexities of navigating modern relationships, and the evolving landscape of the music industry.

1. Navigating Pressure and Finding Balance:

• Santo candidly shares her personal struggles with pressure, particularly during the pandemic’s forced pause in her career.
• She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and accepting uncertainty, rather than succumbing to anxieties.
• Santo highlights how embracing her own needs and setting boundaries, ultimately led to a positive shift in her life, including finding love.
• The conversation suggests that a sense of inner peace and self-acceptance can lead to healthier choices and stronger relationships.

2. The Allure and Perils of Desperation:

• Santo discusses how desperation can negatively impact a person’s attractiveness, highlighting the delicate balance between self-assuredness and neediness.
• The conversation explores the challenge of navigating social interactions, particularly the pressure to meet expectations and say “yes” when you feel otherwise.
• Santo acknowledges the difficulty of setting boundaries, particularly when you are a people-pleaser.
• The theme underscores the importance of recognizing individual journeys and appreciating differences, rather than judging others based on their perceived desperation.

3. The Power of Creation and Identity:

• Santo emphasizes the therapeutic value of creative expression, especially for individuals who derive their identity from their artistic pursuits.
• The conversation explores the challenges of losing access to creative outlets and the potential for identity crises during periods of forced inactivity.
• Santo highlights the importance of finding joy and purpose in the creative process, regardless of external validation.
• The theme underscores the significance of self-expression and creative outlets in maintaining mental and emotional well-being, particularly during times of societal upheaval.

4. The Evolution of Personal Responsibility and Discernment:

• Santo reflects on the shift in mindset that occurred during the pandemic, questioning the relinquishment of agency and the trust placed in institutions.
• She emphasizes the need for individual responsibility, discernment, and a critical evaluation of information sources, particularly in the face of societal mandates.
• The conversation delves into the potential dangers of digital social passport systems and the need for caution in relinquishing personal liberties.
• The theme encourages viewers to engage in critical thinking, question authority, and actively participate in shaping their own lives and society.

5. The Pandemic’s Impact on Health and Wellness:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the pandemic’s stark reminder of the importance of physical health, particularly highlighting the link between obesity and COVID-19 severity.
• They critique the societal celebration of self-acceptance and the potential for it to perpetuate unhealthy behaviors.
• The conversation explores the complexities of addressing weight-related issues, recognizing the sensitive nature of the topic while emphasizing concern for individual well-being.
• The theme underscores the importance of promoting overall health and wellness, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their physical and mental well-being.

6. The Role of Food and Culture:

• Santo and Rogan explore the cultural significance of food, acknowledging the social obligations and traditions surrounding food consumption.
• The conversation highlights the personal challenges of indulging in culturally-driven, but unhealthy, food choices.
• Santo shares her experience with food sensitivities and the impact of dietary choices on her overall well-being.
• The theme acknowledges the complex relationship between food, culture, and personal health, encouraging listeners to find balance and mindful consumption.

7. The Importance of Unconditional Love and Acceptance:

• The conversation explores the profound impact of unconditional love and acceptance, particularly in relationships.
• Santo shares her personal experience of finding a partner who complements her and provides a sense of balance.
• They discuss the power of healthy relationships in fostering personal growth and self-discovery.
• The theme underscores the importance of finding love and support in relationships that allow for authenticity and vulnerability.

8. The Shifting Landscape of Gender and Sexuality:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the evolving concepts of gender and sexuality, acknowledging the growing acceptance of diverse identities.
• They engage in a thoughtful discussion about societal pressures surrounding gender roles and the potential for a cultural shift.
• They reference Douglas Murray’s work, suggesting that a fixation on gender may be a symptom of societal collapse.
• The theme highlights the complexities of navigating a rapidly changing social landscape, encouraging listeners to be open-minded and respectful of individual choices.

9. The Need for Accountability and Discipline:

• Santo and Rogan explore the importance of personal accountability and discipline, suggesting that a lack of these qualities contributes to societal decline.
• They emphasize the need for individual responsibility in taking care of one’s physical and mental health, even when it requires difficult choices.
• They discuss the societal tendency to shy away from constructive criticism, leading to a lack of accountability for personal growth.
• The theme underscores the importance of fostering self-awareness, self-discipline, and taking personal responsibility for one’s actions and well-being.

10. The Impact of Social Media on Identity and Relationships:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the potential pitfalls of social media, particularly its impact on identity and relationships.
• They highlight the tendency for individuals to project idealized versions of themselves online, creating unrealistic expectations and fostering negative comparisons.
• They also acknowledge the potential for social media to amplify negativity and create echo chambers, hindering healthy communication and critical thinking.
• The theme encourages viewers to approach social media with caution, fostering healthy boundaries and prioritizing real-life connections over online validation.

11. The Dangers of Demonization and Profit-Driven Outrage:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the phenomenon of demonization, questioning whether it stems from genuine concern or profit-driven agendas.
• They specifically reference the vaping crisis, questioning whether the outrage was justified or fueled by competing industry interests.
• The conversation encourages viewers to be skeptical of narratives that promote fear and anger, particularly when they are presented without a clear understanding of the facts.
• The theme underscores the importance of questioning narratives, identifying potential biases, and seeking information from diverse sources.

12. The Power of Personal Choice and Taking Control:

• Santo and Rogan emphasize the importance of personal choice and taking control of one’s life, particularly when faced with societal pressures.
• They highlight the dangers of relinquishing agency and relying solely on external guidance.
• They discuss the value of individual responsibility and making decisions based on personal values and beliefs, rather than succumbing to external pressures.
• The theme encourages viewers to embrace their agency, make informed choices, and take an active role in shaping their lives and the world around them.

13. The Growing Influence of Technology and Artificial Intelligence:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the rapid advancement of technology and its potential impact on human society, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence.
• They explore the potential for AI to surpass human intelligence and the implications for the future of humanity.
• They also address the increasing integration of technology into everyday life and the potential for societal control through digital systems.
• The theme encourages viewers to consider the ethical implications of technological advancements and to engage in critical discussions about the future of human society.

14. The Importance of Human Connection and Empathy:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the essential role of human connection and empathy in navigating a complex and often divisive world.
• They acknowledge the importance of fostering meaningful relationships, particularly during times of societal uncertainty.
• They also underscore the need for compassion and understanding, even when disagreeing with others.
• The theme encourages viewers to prioritize human connection, embrace empathy, and engage in respectful dialogue, even in the face of differing opinions.

15. The Importance of Art and Laughter in Challenging Times:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the power of art and laughter as tools for navigating challenging times.
• They highlight the role of creative expression in connecting with others, fostering empathy, and providing a sense of hope.
• They also acknowledge the importance of humor as a coping mechanism and a reminder of life’s absurdities.
• The theme encourages viewers to embrace art and laughter as sources of inspiration, connection, and resilience.

16. The Significance of Personal Growth and Transformation:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the ongoing process of personal growth and transformation, acknowledging that we are constantly evolving.
• They emphasize the importance of embracing challenges and using them as opportunities for learning and development.
• They also discuss the power of self-reflection, examining our beliefs and behaviors to identify areas for improvement.
• The theme encourages viewers to embrace the journey of personal growth, acknowledging that we are constantly evolving and capable of positive change.

17. The Role of the Podcast as a Platform for Dialogue and Understanding:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the significance of podcasts as platforms for open dialogue and understanding.
• They acknowledge the value of providing a space for diverse voices and perspectives.
• They also emphasize the importance of engaging in respectful and thoughtful conversation, even when dealing with controversial topics.
• The theme highlights the potential for podcasts to foster meaningful dialogue, challenge perspectives, and contribute to a more informed and compassionate society.

18. The Role of Music and Performance:

• The conversation revolves around Santo’s musical career and the challenges of navigating the music industry.
• Santo discusses the impact of the pandemic on live performances and the evolving landscape of streaming.
• The theme highlights the value of artistic expression and the importance of supporting artists in their creative endeavors.
• Santo’s passion for music shines through, and the conversation inspires listeners to engage with music and to appreciate the artists who create it.

19. The Importance of Maintaining a Sense of Joy and Wonder:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the importance of maintaining a sense of joy and wonder in life, even in the face of challenges.
• They emphasize the power of finding moments of laughter, connection, and beauty in everyday life.
• They encourage viewers to embrace a sense of childlike curiosity and to appreciate the simple pleasures that bring joy.
• The theme highlights the importance of finding joy and wonder, even amidst the chaos of the world, and reminds listeners to embrace life’s simple pleasures.

20. The Ongoing Search for Meaning and Purpose:

• Santo and Rogan discuss the ongoing search for meaning and purpose in life, acknowledging that this is a universal human experience.
• They explore various pathways to finding meaning, including creative expression, relationships, and spiritual practices.
• The conversation encourages viewers to embrace the journey of self-discovery and to actively seek meaning and purpose in their lives.
• The theme highlights the importance of connecting with a sense of purpose, reminding listeners to find what makes their lives meaningful.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “It’s like, you’re on a leash, and I feel like I’ve lost my agency, and I never know what’s gonna happen. And then I have to collect myself afterwards.” – Santo expresses her frustration with the constant barrage of information and the impact it has on her mental state.
• “We’re all evolving and figuring this out. And we’re battling about how to do it and how not to do it and what to say, what not to say.” – Santo captures the complexity of navigating a rapidly changing society with evolving values and beliefs.
• “You have to be able to just say what you want. You have to be able to go wherever you you have to be you don’t have you can’t be tied down for a reason. It doesn’t totally make sense.” – Santo emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and the right to express oneself without fear of censorship.
• “It’s like reading the headline, but you didn’t read the whole article.” – Santo highlights the danger of forming opinions based on incomplete or biased information, particularly on social media.
• “We’re supposed to be alive. Exactly. We’re supposed to be having fun. We’re supposed to have an experience. Yes. And not and not deny it. And and, you know, I realized that’s very complicated, but, like, you woke me up.” – Santo expresses her gratitude for the reminder that life is meant to be enjoyed and experienced fully, not denied or suppressed by anxieties and pressures.