JRE #1894 – Suzanne Santo

by

4-Nov-22







This podcast features a conversation with Suzanne Santo, a multi-talented artist who is an actress, model, and singer-songwriter. The episode delves into various aspects of her life, including her experiences in the entertainment industry, her personal journey, and her views on contemporary societal issues. The conversation touches on provocative and controversial topics, reflecting Rogan’s signature style. Underlying themes explore the importance of personal growth, the challenges of navigating the complexities of modern life, and the search for meaning in a rapidly evolving world.

Major Topics and 4 Point Summaries

  1. Suzanne Santo’s Fitness Regimen and Sober October:
    1. Santo discusses her dedication to fitness, especially during Sober October, a month-long challenge where she worked out every day.
    2. She shares her experience with a previous fitness contest that led to an unhealthy obsession with cardio, highlighting the importance of balance.
    3. The conversation emphasizes the role of discipline and pushing through discomfort to achieve fitness goals, while also acknowledging the importance of sustainable routines.
    4. Santo advocates for finding ways to eliminate escape routes from difficult tasks, ultimately leading to greater commitment and success.
  2. Suzanne Santo’s Personal Growth and Boundaries:
    1. Santo reveals her journey of learning to set boundaries with family and friends, emphasizing the challenges of being a “people pleaser” and the importance of self-preservation.
    2. She credits her husband for teaching her valuable lessons about boundaries, showcasing the role of a supportive partner in personal development.
    3. The conversation highlights the dangers of becoming a “mother figure” to others and the need to prioritize personal well-being.
    4. Santo emphasizes the transformative power of establishing healthy boundaries, leading to greater peace of mind and reduced anxiety.
  3. The Pandemic’s Impact on Society and Individual Choices:
    1. Santo discusses the societal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the heightened anxiety and the division it created.
    2. She shares her personal experience of losing touring opportunities due to her decision not to get vaccinated, highlighting the importance of standing by personal convictions.
    3. The conversation touches on the controversy surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine, including the CDC’s recommendation for children, and explores the underlying motivations behind this policy.
    4. Santo criticizes the use of fear and manipulation to control people’s behavior, advocating for individual autonomy and informed decision-making.
  4. The Importance of Personal Health and the Anti-Health Agenda:
    1. Santo emphasizes the significance of personal health, including exercise, proper nutrition, and taking vitamins.
    2. She discusses the dangers of processed food and seed oils, highlighting their negative impact on health and well-being.
    3. Santo criticizes the “anti-health” agenda, which often demonizes healthy choices as being associated with certain political ideologies.
    4. The conversation encourages individuals to prioritize their own health regardless of societal pressures and to challenge the stigma surrounding healthy lifestyles.
  5. The Influence of Social Media and Its Impact on Mental Health:
    1. Santo expresses concern over the pervasive influence of social media on mental health, especially for younger generations.
    2. She discusses the potential for social media to blur the lines between personal thoughts and external influences, leading to a sense of disconnect from reality.
    3. Santo critiques the echo chambers and groupthink prevalent in social media, emphasizing the dangers of unchecked ideologies and the need for critical thinking.
    4. The conversation explores the role of social media in creating a culture of fear, anxiety, and the pressure to conform to certain narratives.
  6. The Power of Independent Creators and the Decline of Traditional Entertainment:
    1. Santo highlights the rise of independent creators in comedy, music, and other artistic fields, showcasing their freedom from the constraints of traditional media.
    2. She expresses concern over the decline of quality in mainstream entertainment, attributing it to the dominance of agendas and the pressure to conform to certain ideologies.
    3. Santo celebrates the availability of independent content, particularly on streaming platforms, and the opportunity for artists to share their authentic voices.
    4. The conversation critiques the trend of inserting agendas into narratives, arguing for the importance of storytelling and artistic integrity.
  7. The Importance of Logic and Critical Thinking in a World of Emotional Contagion:
    1. Santo emphasizes the importance of logic and critical thinking in navigating a world dominated by emotional contagion and the spread of misinformation.
    2. She discusses the dangers of letting emotions override reason, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to navigating complex social issues.
    3. Santo encourages open dialogue and the willingness to be proven wrong, advocating for intellectual humility and a commitment to truth-seeking.
    4. The conversation explores the challenges of separating personal opinions from factual evidence, stressing the importance of objective analysis and critical evaluation.
  8. The Role of Meritocracy in Personal and Professional Success:
    1. Santo advocates for meritocracy, believing that hard work and dedication should be the primary drivers of success.
    2. She challenges the notion of systemic disadvantages based on gender or other factors, arguing for individual agency and the power of personal initiative.
    3. The conversation emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s shortcomings and avoiding external blame.
    4. Santo highlights the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement as essential for achieving personal and professional goals.
  9. Suzanne Santo’s Musical Journey and the Challenges of the Music Industry:
    1. Santo reveals her decision to retool her music career, emphasizing the importance of taking control of the creative and production process.
    2. She discusses the challenges of the modern music industry, including the decline of touring revenue and the increasing reliance on social media marketing.
    3. Santo shares her experiences with the “feast or famine” nature of the music business, showcasing the ups and downs of pursuing a career in music.
    4. The conversation highlights the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in the creative process, even amidst the challenges and uncertainties of the industry.
  10. Suzanne Santo’s Collaboration with Gary Clark Jr. and the Power of Music:
    1. Santo shares insights into her collaboration with Gary Clark Jr., highlighting his exceptional talent and unique musical style.
    2. She discusses the power of music to transcend boundaries and create a sense of connection with audiences.
    3. The conversation explores the importance of live music performance and the transformative experience it offers both for musicians and listeners.
    4. Santo emphasizes the role of music in enhancing the human experience, making the world a more fun, exciting, and meaningful place.
  11. The Allure and Dangers of Belief Systems:
    1. The conversation delves into the allure and dangers of belief systems, both personal and societal.
    2. Santo explores the importance of questioning one’s beliefs and seeking truth beyond established narratives.
    3. She discusses the challenges of deprogramming from ingrained beliefs and the power of external influences to shape our perceptions.
    4. The conversation encourages a critical approach to belief systems, emphasizing the importance of personal autonomy and critical evaluation of information.
  12. The Nature of Reality and the Search for Meaning:
    1. The conversation grapples with the nature of reality and the search for meaning in a world of uncertainty and change.
    2. Santo explores the importance of introspection and self-discovery, emphasizing the need to understand one’s own values and beliefs.
    3. She discusses the challenges of navigating conflicting perspectives and finding common ground in a polarized society.
    4. The conversation encourages a sense of wonder and curiosity about the universe and the human experience, fostering a sense of purpose and connection.
  13. The Interplay of Nature and Technology:
    1. The podcast explores the complex interplay between nature and technology, particularly the impact of human interventions on the environment.
    2. Santo discusses the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancements, highlighting the need for ethical considerations and responsible innovation.
    3. The conversation explores the potential for emerging technologies, such as neural implants, to reshape human consciousness and the nature of our existence.
    4. The podcast emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to technology, acknowledging both its potential benefits and the risks it poses.
  14. The Role of Comedy and Humor in Navigating Difficult Times:
    1. Santo acknowledges the importance of comedy and humor in providing relief and perspective during challenging times.
    2. She discusses the power of laughter to connect people and challenge rigid ideologies.
    3. The conversation highlights the importance of satire and social commentary in exposing the absurdity of certain societal trends.
    4. The podcast celebrates the role of comedy in fostering critical thinking, social awareness, and a sense of shared humanity.
  15. Suzanne Santo’s Personal Experiences with Health and Wellness:
    1. Santo shares her personal experiences with health challenges, including stomach issues and the discovery of H. pylori bacteria.
    2. She discusses the role of holistic approaches to health, including food intolerances, supplements, and parasite cleanses.
    3. The conversation explores the complexity of health and the importance of finding what works for individual needs and circumstances.
    4. Santo advocates for seeking a balance between traditional and alternative medicine, encouraging a personalized approach to health and well-being.
  16. The Perils of the “Get Rich Quick” Mentality:
    1. The conversation addresses the perils of the “get rich quick” mentality, particularly prevalent in the entertainment industry.
    2. Santo highlights the dangers of seeking fame and fortune above all else, emphasizing the importance of personal fulfillment and genuine artistry.
    3. The podcast discusses the impact of social media on this mentality, highlighting the pressure to achieve instant success and the fleeting nature of internet fame.
    4. Santo encourages a focus on long-term goals, prioritizing personal growth and meaningful work over superficial achievements.
  17. The Importance of Family and Connection:
    1. Santo emphasizes the importance of family and meaningful connections, highlighting the role of loved ones in providing support and grounding.
    2. She discusses the challenges of maintaining relationships with family members and the complexities of navigating different personalities.
    3. The conversation explores the role of family in shaping individual values and the importance of healing past generational wounds.
    4. Santo emphasizes the importance of prioritizing family and fostering deep connections as essential for personal well-being and happiness.
  18. The Ruthlessness of Nature:
    1. The podcast explores the ruthlessness of nature, highlighting the intricate balance of predator-prey relationships.
    2. Santo shares her personal encounters with wild animals, showcasing the power and unpredictability of nature.
    3. The conversation discusses the importance of respecting the natural world and the dangers of human interventions that disrupt ecological balances.
    4. The podcast encourages a sense of awe and wonder for the natural world, acknowledging its beauty and the challenges it presents.
  19. The Potential for a Technological Singularity and Its Implications:
    1. The conversation explores the potential for a technological singularity, a hypothetical point where artificial intelligence surpasses human intelligence.
    2. Santo discusses the implications of this potential event, highlighting the need to consider its impact on human consciousness and the future of society.
    3. The podcast examines the ethical considerations surrounding emerging technologies, such as neural implants, and their potential for both good and harm.
    4. The conversation encourages a thoughtful and critical approach to technological advancement, advocating for responsible innovation and a human-centered approach to progress.
  20. The Importance of Staying Grounded and Connected to Humanity:
    1. The podcast emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and connected to humanity in an increasingly digital world.
    2. Santo advocates for a balanced approach to technology, recognizing its potential benefits while guarding against its downsides.
    3. She highlights the importance of personal connection, human interaction, and the value of real-world experiences.
    4. The conversation encourages individuals to prioritize meaningful relationships and real-life interactions in the face of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
  21. The Power of Storytelling and the Search for Truth:
    1. The podcast highlights the power of storytelling to connect people, inspire, and illuminate truths about the human experience.
    2. Santo shares her personal experiences with storytelling through music and the importance of sharing authentic narratives.
    3. The conversation explores the role of ancient texts, mythology, and folklore in shaping our understanding of the world and ourselves.
    4. The podcast encourages a curiosity for exploration, questioning, and the search for deeper meaning in both personal and societal narratives.

Memorable Quotes

  • “My worries have changed in my dedication to that, which was really hard, you know, because you don’t wanna, I don’t wanna let people down.” – Suzanne Santo reveals the challenges of setting boundaries and the inherent desire to please others.
  • “And then you have to come to the realization that some people never fix any problems. They just have new ones.” – Santo reflects on the tendency for some people to remain stuck in patterns of negativity and avoid taking responsibility for their actions.
  • “And I started getting good at saying, hey how this is where I’m drawn a line. I love you, but this is the line.” – Santo shares her progress in setting healthy boundaries with those who might take advantage of her kindness.
  • “I’m learning about myself too, and what that means for me and my ego and it’s very humbling.” – Santo acknowledges the self-discovery that comes with setting boundaries and challenging her own patterns of behavior.
  • “So many people just don’t take care of themselves and those are the people that were the most stressed out because they had the most to lose. They were the most at fear because they’ve been spending so much time eating shitty food and living a sedentary lifestyle with a very vulnerable immune system.” – Santo connects the pandemic’s impact on individuals with their underlying health choices, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility.


 

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