JRE #1770 – Valentine Thomas

This Joe Rogan podcast episode features Valentine Thomas, a fascinating individual who traded a career in law and finance for a life as a free-diver, spear-fisher, chef, and author. The conversation explores his unconventional path, the challenges and rewards of pursuing a passion, and the unique perspective he’s gained from living life on his own terms. Provocative topics include sustainable seafood, the ethics of hunting, the dangers of the ocean, and the benefits of pushing personal boundaries. Underlying themes include embracing unconventional paths, the power of personal choice, the importance of sustainability, and the value of facing fear.

Major Topics

Let’s dive into the key topics discussed in the podcast, exploring the depths of Valentine’s experiences and insights:

1. From Law to Freedom: Valentine’s Unconventional Career Shift
   • Valentine’s dissatisfaction with the corporate world led him to pursue a life of adventure.
   • He discovered his passion for free-diving and spear-fishing and turned it into a successful career through social media.
   • This decision was met with skepticism from family and friends, who questioned the financial viability of his chosen path.
   • Valentine’s story inspires listeners to challenge societal norms and embrace unconventional paths.
2. The Ethics of Spear-Fishing and Sustainable Seafood
   • Valentine advocates for sustainable fishing practices and emphasizes the importance of understanding the ocean’s delicate ecosystem.
   • He highlights the impact of overfishing, pollution, and illegal fishing practices on marine life.
   • The conversation delves into the complexities of marine protected areas and the controversy surrounding their effectiveness.
   • Valentine’s experience as a spear-fisher sheds light on the need for responsible seafood consumption and the importance of preserving marine biodiversity.
3. The Risks and Rewards of Free-Diving and Spear-Fishing
   • Valentine describes the thrill and challenges of holding his breath for extended periods and diving to significant depths.
   • He emphasizes the importance of training, mental fortitude, and understanding the limits of his body.
   • The conversation touches upon the dangers of encounters with sharks, boats, and other marine life.
   • Valentine’s experience showcases the pursuit of adventure and the personal growth that comes from pushing physical and mental boundaries.
4. The World Beneath the Waves: Exploring Marine Life and Biodiversity
   • Valentine’s passion for the ocean leads him to explore fascinating marine creatures, highlighting the unique adaptations of underwater life.
   • He shares his observations of camouflage, hunting strategies, and the intricate relationships within marine ecosystems.
   • The conversation delves into the mysteries of deep-sea exploration and the discovery of new species.
   • Valentine’s perspective underscores the importance of preserving marine environments and the wonders that lie beneath the surface.
5. The Ethics of Hunting and the Nature of Wild Animals
   • Valentine discusses the ethical considerations of hunting, emphasizing the importance of understanding the animal’s role in the ecosystem.
   • He shares his personal experiences with hunting and the emotional impact of taking an animal’s life.
   • The conversation explores the complexities of wildlife management and the need for responsible hunting practices.
   • Valentine’s insights challenge viewers to confront their own perceptions of hunting and the relationship between humans and wildlife.
6. The Power of Personal Growth and Embracing Challenges
   • Valentine’s journey highlights the importance of embracing challenges and pushing personal boundaries.
   • He shares his experiences with martial arts, grappling, and archery, emphasizing the mental and physical benefits of these disciplines.
   • The conversation delves into the importance of seeking out mentors, the power of hard work and dedication, and the value of overcoming setbacks.
   • Valentine’s story inspires listeners to pursue their passions, embrace discomfort, and strive for continuous growth.
7. The Impact of Social Media: Both Opportunities and Dangers
   • Valentine acknowledges the power of social media as a platform for sharing experiences and connecting with others.
   • He discusses the challenges of dealing with negativity, criticism, and the potential for harassment online.
   • The conversation explores the importance of building a strong online community and setting boundaries to protect one’s mental well-being.
   • Valentine’s insights encourage listeners to be mindful of their online interactions and prioritize their mental health in the digital age.
8. The Importance of Embracing Unconventional Paths
   • Valentine’s story encourages listeners to question societal expectations and pursue their passions, regardless of conventional wisdom.
   • He emphasizes the importance of finding fulfillment and purpose in life, even if it means venturing off the beaten path.
   • The conversation highlights the potential for personal growth and discovery when embracing unconventional paths.
   • Valentine’s story inspires listeners to challenge the status quo and live life on their own terms.
9. The Health Benefits of a Sustainable Lifestyle
   • Valentine discusses the importance of consuming healthy, sustainable food sources, emphasizing the benefits of wild-caught seafood and ethically raised meat.
   • He shares his insights on the potential risks of mercury poisoning and other toxins found in some seafood.
   • The conversation touches upon the benefits of physical activity and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
   • Valentine’s perspective encourages listeners to prioritize their health and well-being through conscious choices and sustainable practices.
10. The Power of Breath Work and Mindfulness
    • Valentine discusses the benefits of breath work for managing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing focus.
    • He shares his personal experience with breath work as a tool for managing anxiety and achieving a sense of calm.
    • The conversation explores the potential of breath work as a complementary therapy for various health challenges.
    • Valentine encourages listeners to explore the power of breath work as a tool for self-care and personal growth.
11. The Importance of Challenging Ourselves
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and growth throughout life.
    • Valentine shares his belief that challenging oneself, regardless of age, is key to living a fulfilling life.
    • He encourages listeners to embrace new experiences, overcome fears, and push their own boundaries.
    • Valentine’s story highlights the transformative power of personal growth and the importance of staying curious and engaged throughout life.
12. The Value of Connecting with Nature
    • Valentine’s experiences in the ocean, mountains, and forests demonstrate the profound connection between humans and nature.
    • He highlights the importance of spending time outdoors, appreciating the beauty of the natural world, and understanding our place within it.
    • The conversation encourages listeners to find ways to connect with nature and experience its restorative and inspiring qualities.
    • Valentine’s passion for the natural world inspires listeners to appreciate its value and contribute to its preservation.

Memorable Quotes

• “So, my friend, so for people who don’t know you, it’s been a few years since you’ve been on the podcast. You were once a lawyer in Montreal or on your way to becoming a lawyer, and you were like, fuck this life. And now you’re a spearfisher person, which seems to be if you looked at that, like, on paper. Like, you’re like, how no. That’s a recreational activity. That’s not something that you’d but you figured out a way with your smart brain to actually monetize it. And — I did. — and promote it.”
• “The thing that I tell people is tell me what you believe in. I’ll tell you what you eat. Mhmm. Because there’s not one answer.”
• “It’s like, when you’re out in the middle of nowhere, and then you see a boat. Like, if you’re on a boat in the middle of nowhere and then you see another boat in the middle of nowhere, you’re like, oh, fuck. Right? It’s like the woods.”
• “I think that, like, it’s also you you’re discovering new aspect of of your personalities. Yes. It’s like you’re ever taught that you know, born and raised on time on show that I had a hunting instinct. Right. I’m I’m the shape of a stick, and I was scared of my own shadow growing up. Like, it’s”
• “And that’s okay too. It’s okay to be but it’s like this dismissal of it. You know, like, oh, these fucking people just idiots are late to kill things. Are there people like that out there? Yes. There are. just like, are there people that, you know, their painters and they suck? Yeah. Of course. because it’s there’s a limited you know, like, the the barrier to entry for fishing is very easy.”