JRE #19 – Brian Redban

This Joe Rogan podcast episode with Brian Redban features a hilariously raw conversation that dives into a wide range of topics, touching on sexuality, religion, the state of modern media, societal trends, and a touch of conspiracy. The dynamic duo tackle controversial subjects with unfiltered honesty, exploring the complexities of human behavior and the changing landscape of the world.

Topics Covered

1. The Fleshlight Sponsorship Controversy

• Joe Rogan’s podcast receives an offer from Fleshlight, a popular male sex toy company, as a sponsor.
• Joe’s manager expresses concern about the sponsorship, fearing negative repercussions for Joe’s career due to the product’s association with the pornography industry.
• The conversation sparks a debate about societal hypocrisy regarding masturbation and sex, contrasting the acceptance of pornography with the stigma surrounding sex toys.
• Joe advocates for open and honest conversations about sexuality, arguing that there’s nothing inherently wrong with masturbation or using sex toys, and that such products can have therapeutic applications.

2. The Therapeutic Applications of Fleshlight

• The Fleshlight representative discusses the potential benefits of the product for certain religious groups and individuals with sexual dysfunction.
• He claims that some insurance policies cover Fleshlight as a form of sexual therapy, particularly for Hasidic Jews who may have difficulty reaching orgasm due to religious restrictions against touching their genitals.
• The idea of using Fleshlight to address premature ejaculation is also explored, highlighting the product’s potential for improving sexual performance and satisfaction.
• Joe and Brian debate the validity of these claims, acknowledging the potential for therapeutic use but also recognizing the absurdity of the concept.

3. The Rise of New Media and the Death of Old TV

• Joe reflects on the transformative power of the internet and its impact on media consumption, highlighting the ease of creating and distributing content.
• He contrasts the freedom and accessibility of online platforms with the restrictive nature of traditional television, emphasizing the limitations of network programming and censorship.
• The conversation touches on the evolving nature of entertainment, acknowledging the blurring of lines between traditional and online media and the growing popularity of podcasts and streaming services.
• Joe emphasizes the liberating potential of new media, allowing creators to explore diverse topics and reach a wider audience without the constraints of traditional broadcast networks.

4. The Hypocrisy of Society’s Attitudes Toward Sex and Drugs

• Joe criticizes the double standards surrounding the acceptance of drug use compared to the stigma associated with sex toys.
• He points out the irony of his manager’s concern over Fleshlight while simultaneously being comfortable with Joe’s discussions about drugs and psychedelic experiences.
• The conversation highlights the disconnect between societal perceptions of drugs and sex, questioning the rationale behind criminalizing certain substances while simultaneously accepting the use of pharmaceutical drugs with potentially harmful side effects.
• Joe argues for a more rational and nuanced approach to both sex and drugs, acknowledging the potential for both pleasure and harm, and advocating for responsible use.

5. The Dangers of Pharmaceutical Companies and the Influence of Big Pharma

• Joe expresses concerns about the influence of pharmaceutical companies on the medical profession, highlighting the practice of doctors receiving kickbacks for prescribing specific drugs.
• He discusses the prevalence of prescription drug abuse, particularly concerning the potential for addiction to opioids like Vicodin and OxyContin.
• The conversation touches on the complexities of the pharmaceutical industry, recognizing the importance of medicine while simultaneously raising concerns about the lack of oversight and the potential for exploitation.
• Joe advocates for greater transparency and accountability within the pharmaceutical industry, emphasizing the need for greater consumer education and protection against the dangers of addiction and over-prescription.

6. The War on Drugs and its Impact on Mexico

• Joe discusses the ongoing drug war in Mexico and the rise of powerful drug cartels, highlighting the violence and instability resulting from the illegal drug trade.
• He critiques the United States’ role in the drug war, arguing that the prohibition of drugs has only fueled the black market and empowered criminal organizations.
• Joe explores the potential consequences of decriminalizing drugs, suggesting that regulation and taxation could reduce violence and provide government revenue.
• The conversation highlights the global implications of the drug war, demonstrating the interconnectedness of international politics and the devastating impact on countries like Mexico.

7. The Alarming Trend of Violence and Mental Instability in Society

• Joe discusses the disturbing rise of violent incidents in public spaces, citing the example of a woman stabbing multiple people in a Target store.
• He questions the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in dealing with individuals exhibiting mental instability, suggesting that societal responses to such behavior need to be re-evaluated.
• The conversation explores the complexities of mental health, acknowledging the challenges of diagnosis and treatment while emphasizing the need for effective interventions to prevent violence.
• Joe raises concerns about the potential dangers of an increasingly fragmented and disconnected society, highlighting the need for greater social support and understanding of mental health issues.

8. The Evolution of Body Modification and the Pursuit of Extremes

• Joe discusses the growing popularity of body modification, particularly piercings, and how the pursuit of extreme aesthetics reflects broader societal trends.
• He observes the increasing acceptance of tattoos and piercings as forms of self-expression, linking it to the rise of pornography and the desensitization to explicit content.
• The conversation touches on the potential downsides of extreme body modification, including the risk of infection and the potential for regrets later in life.
• Joe explores the underlying motivations for body modification, suggesting that it can be both a form of rebellion and a desire for attention and validation in a increasingly competitive society.

9. The Internet’s Double-Edged Sword: Information Overload and the Reinforcing of Bias

• Joe acknowledges the vast potential of the internet for knowledge and connection, but also raises concerns about the spread of misinformation and the reinforcement of biases.
• He discusses the phenomenon of echo chambers, where individuals primarily encounter information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs, leading to a lack of critical thinking and understanding of diverse perspectives.
• The conversation highlights the challenges of navigating the vast sea of information on the internet, emphasizing the need for media literacy and critical analysis of sources.
• Joe argues for the importance of seeking out diverse perspectives and challenging one’s own biases, advocating for a more informed and engaged citizenry in the digital age.

10. The Acceleration of Technological Advancements and the Unpredictable Future

• Joe and Brian discuss the rapid pace of technological advancements, highlighting the exponential growth in computing power, communication, and artificial intelligence.
• They speculate on the potential for future technologies to fundamentally alter human society, including the development of smart dust, nuclear fusion, and brain-computer interfaces.
• The conversation touches on the potential benefits and risks of these technologies, exploring the possibilities of a more connected and advanced world while simultaneously acknowledging the potential for misuse and unintended consequences.
• Joe and Brian express a sense of awe and apprehension about the future, recognizing the immense potential of technology while also emphasizing the need for caution and careful consideration of its implications.

11. The Threat of Smart Dust and the Erosion of Privacy

• Joe and Brian discuss the concept of smart dust, microscopic wireless devices capable of transmitting data, monitoring, and capturing images, and the potential implications for privacy.
• They speculate on the potential for smart dust to be deployed on a massive scale, creating a pervasive surveillance network that could eliminate all semblance of privacy.
• The conversation touches on the ethical concerns surrounding such technology, questioning the balance between innovation and individual rights.
• Joe and Brian express a sense of unease about the potential for smart dust to be used for malicious purposes, highlighting the need for robust safeguards and ethical considerations in the development and deployment of such technology.

12. The Coming Era of Transparency and the Dissolution of Embarrassment

• Joe speculates on the potential for technology to create an era of complete transparency, where all aspects of human life, including thoughts and emotions, could be visible to others.
• He suggests that this radical shift could lead to the dissolution of societal norms related to privacy, embarrassment, and shame.
• The conversation explores the potential consequences of such a change, questioning the implications for human relationships and the need for a new understanding of what it means to be human in a hyper-transparent world.
• Joe and Brian engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the evolution of social norms and the potential for technology to fundamentally alter human behavior and our understanding of ourselves.

13. The Importance of Education and Responsibility in a Changing World

• Joe and Brian emphasize the importance of education and critical thinking in navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving world.
• They discuss the need for parents to raise responsible and informed children, recognizing the responsibility that comes with parenting and the potential consequences of neglecting one’s duty to educate and guide children.
• The conversation touches on the importance of social and emotional intelligence, arguing that it is crucial for navigating the challenges of a changing world.
• Joe and Brian conclude that education and responsible parenting are essential for fostering a more informed, compassionate, and resilient society.

14. The Nature of Sociopathy and the Unpredictability of Human Behavior

• Joe and Brian discuss the nature of sociopathy, questioning the origin of this personality disorder and its implications for societal safety.
• They acknowledge the difficulty of identifying and understanding sociopathic behavior, highlighting the challenges of addressing this complex issue.
• The conversation touches on the debate between nature and nurture, recognizing the potential for both genetic predispositions and environmental factors to contribute to sociopathic tendencies.
• Joe and Brian emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs of sociopathic behavior, promoting vigilance and awareness to protect oneself and others.

15. The Importance of Laughter and the Power of Nonsense

• Joe and Brian acknowledge the importance of laughter and humor in navigating the complexities of life.
• They recognize the power of nonsense and absurdity, highlighting the cathartic nature of humor and its ability to provide a sense of relief and perspective.
• The conversation underscores the role of humor in challenging societal norms and offering alternative perspectives on the world.
• Joe and Brian advocate for the importance of embracing laughter and finding joy in the face of adversity, recognizing that humor can be a powerful tool for coping with the challenges of life.

16. The Dangers of Dogmatic Thinking and the Need for Open-Mindedness

• Joe and Brian discuss the dangers of dogmatic thinking, highlighting the potential for rigid beliefs to lead to intolerance and violence.
• They cite examples of religious extremism and political polarization as evidence of the dangers of closed-minded thinking.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and open-mindedness, advocating for a more tolerant and understanding society.
• Joe and Brian stress the need for engaging with diverse perspectives and avoiding the trap of echo chambers, promoting a more informed and compassionate approach to social and political issues.

17. The Unpredictability of Politics and the Limits of Democracy

• Joe and Brian discuss the complexities of politics and the limitations of democracy, acknowledging the challenges of achieving true representation and consensus.
• They highlight the influence of money and special interests in political decision-making, questioning the effectiveness of democratic systems in addressing complex societal issues.
• The conversation touches on the importance of public engagement and political awareness, emphasizing the need for citizens to hold their elected officials accountable.
• Joe and Brian conclude that while democracy may not be perfect, it remains the best system for governing, but requires constant vigilance and active participation from its citizens.

18. The Potential for Catastrophic Events and the Need for Adaptability

• Joe and Brian discuss the potential for catastrophic events, including natural disasters and technological accidents, highlighting the need for societal resilience and adaptability.
• They explore the implications of the BP oil spill and other environmental disasters, recognizing the interconnectedness of human activities and the natural world.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and responsible resource management, advocating for a more mindful approach to our impact on the planet.
• Joe and Brian conclude that human society must prepare for unforeseen challenges and be willing to adapt to changing circumstances, recognizing the importance of both individual and collective action.

19. The Irony of Hypocrisy and the Need for Self-Awareness

• Joe and Brian discuss the prevalence of hypocrisy in society, highlighting the tendency for individuals to judge others while engaging in similar or worse behaviors.
• They cite examples of politicians and religious leaders who preach moral righteousness while engaging in unethical or illegal activities.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and acknowledging one’s own flaws, promoting greater tolerance and understanding of human fallibility.
• Joe and Brian advocate for a more honest and forgiving approach to human behavior, recognizing that everyone makes mistakes and that judging others is rarely productive.

20. The Importance of Trust and the Challenges of Navigating a Complex World

• Joe and Brian discuss the importance of trust in human relationships, highlighting the challenges of building and maintaining trust in a world filled with deception and uncertainty.
• They acknowledge the importance of discernment and critical thinking, recognizing the need to carefully evaluate information and sources before placing trust in others.
• The conversation touches on the importance of community and shared values, suggesting that a sense of belonging and connection can help to foster trust and build a stronger society.
• Joe and Brian conclude that while trust can be difficult to earn, it remains essential for navigating the complexities of human relationships and creating a more harmonious world.

Memorable Quotes

• “If you don’t masturbate, what’s wrong with you? Like, it’s a it’s a great feels good.” – Joe Rogan on the naturalness of masturbation.
• “You gotta watch a video of a guy chopping off their dick, but yet you can’t masturbate. That’s okay. But masturbation’s terrible. It it makes no sense at all.” – Joe Rogan on the hypocrisy of societal attitudes.
• “The drug industry is okay, but the porn industry, the genogenic and nipple industry is just out of control insane. It’s why? I don’t know what you just said. You might be able to be a little bit too mad at the clock right now.” – Joe Rogan on the double standard surrounding drug use and sexuality.
• “I think there is a lot of things like that because there was something else you were saying about people like, a lot of medical reasons. Like, what was something else that he said besides that religion? There was, like, doctors that would use it for Well, that we already talked covered covered that. Doctors use it for premature ejaculation and for religions that don’t last to a year. Wait 2 How are you talking about a very long lady?” – Brian Redban attempting to make sense of Joe’s rambling.
• “We live right next to a country that’s involved in a way more deadly war than the one going on in Afghanistan or going on in back. Yeah. Both of them combined can’t even touch the body counts that are happening in Mexico right next door. They’re killing motherfuckers. They’re going crazy over there, dude. And you can get there by walking.” – Joe Rogan on the real threat of the Mexican drug war.