29-Nov-22
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This podcast features Kurt Metzger, a stand-up comic, writer, and host of the “Can’t Get Right with Kurt Metzger” podcast. The conversation delves into a wide array of topics, touching on personal experiences, social commentary, and deep dives into controversial subjects. Underlying themes explore the complexities of addiction, the role of humor in navigating difficult topics, and the ever-present nature of manipulation in various forms.
1. **Elon Musk, Weed, and NASA Clearance:**
* The podcast opens with a discussion about Elon Musk’s alleged weed use on Joe Rogan’s show and the impact it may have had on his NASA clearance.
* Joe Rogan emphasizes that the incident occurred while weed was legal in California but still federally illegal, highlighting the complex legal landscape surrounding marijuana.
* They discuss the potential consequences for individuals with high-level security clearances who engage in activities that are illegal at the federal level, regardless of state laws.
* The conversation touches on the absurdity of federal marijuana laws, contrasting the strict penalties with the legalization of weed in many states and the medical benefits it offers.
2. **The Power of Exercise and Mental Health:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the significant impact of exercise on mood stabilization and mental health.
* They highlight the often-overlooked benefits of exercise, challenging the stereotypical negative associations with “meatheads” and “jock culture.”
* They discuss the role of vitamin D deficiency in mood disorders, particularly for individuals living in the northeastern US during winter.
* The conversation underscores the importance of regular exercise for overall well-being and the transformative power it can have on mental health.
3. **Addiction and Prescription Drug Use:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger delve into their personal experiences with addiction, specifically focusing on prescription opioid use and subsequent recovery.
* The conversation explores the deceptive marketing practices surrounding opioids, specifically highlighting the term “breakthrough pain” used to justify higher doses and increased dependence.
* They discuss the effectiveness of Suboxone as a treatment for opioid addiction and the challenges of withdrawal, comparing it to Methadone and highlighting the potential for long-term dependence on these medications.
* The conversation underscores the pervasive nature of opioid addiction in society, challenging the stigma surrounding it and highlighting the complexities of recovery.
4. **The Nature of Conspiracy Theories and Misinformation:**
* The podcast explores the prevalence of conspiracy theories and the difficulty in discerning truth from fiction in the age of misinformation.
* They discuss the case of Bob Lazar, a self-proclaimed former Area 51 employee who claims to have worked on reverse engineering alien technology.
* They analyze the evidence presented by Lazar, examining his claims and the arguments against them.
* The conversation highlights the allure of conspiracy theories and the skepticism that often arises when encountering seemingly extraordinary claims.
5. **The Deep State, CIA Operations, and Drug Trafficking:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger explore allegations of CIA involvement in drug trafficking, referencing the testimony of Michael Rupert, a former police officer who claimed to have witnessed CIA drug operations.
* The conversation examines the potential for the CIA to use drug trafficking as a source of funding, drawing parallels to the “mafia” model of operating outside the law.
* They discuss the concept of “gain of function” research and the potential for the government to fund research that could create dangerous pathogens.
* The conversation touches on the controversial topic of government involvement in illicit activities and the implications for transparency and accountability.
6. **UFOs and Government Cover-Ups:**
* The podcast delves into the enduring fascination with UFOs and the persistent speculation surrounding government cover-ups.
* They discuss the Jackie Gleeson story, a rumor that claims the comedian was taken to Wright Patterson Air Force Base by Richard Nixon to view alien wreckage.
* They debunk the Gleeson story, analyzing the evidence and highlighting the lack of credible sources.
* The conversation touches on the prevalence of misinformation and the challenges of separating fact from fiction in the realm of UFOs.
7. **The Role of Stand-Up Comedy:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the importance of stand-up comedy as a form of social commentary, highlighting its ability to deliver difficult truths with humor.
* They explore the evolution of stand-up comedy, referencing the iconic “Young Comedians” specials hosted by Rodney Dangerfield.
* They discuss the power of comedy to challenge social norms, challenge authority, and create a platform for diverse voices.
* The conversation underscores the enduring relevance of stand-up comedy as a form of social critique and entertainment.
8. **Cancel Culture and Free Speech:**
* The podcast explores the concept of “cancel culture” and its impact on free speech.
* They discuss instances where individuals have been criticized or ostracized for their words or actions, particularly in the context of social media.
* They examine the complexities of navigating controversial topics in a world where public discourse is increasingly scrutinized.
* The conversation touches on the role of context and intent in determining the appropriateness of speech, prompting a broader discussion about free speech and its limitations.
9. **The Ukraine Conflict and Misinformation:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, examining the flow of information and the potential for misinformation.
* They highlight the contrast between early media coverage of Ukraine’s corruption and the current narrative emphasizing the need for global support.
* They express concerns about the role of “bots” and propaganda in shaping public opinion, particularly on social media.
* The conversation underscores the importance of critical thinking and skepticism when navigating complex geopolitical events.
10. **The FTX Cryptocurrency Scandal:**
* The podcast delves into the FTX cryptocurrency scandal, exploring the alleged misuse of funds and the potential for fraud.
* They discuss the role of “puff pieces” and media manipulation in promoting companies like FTX, highlighting the potential for financial corruption.
* They examine the culture of greed and recklessness that may have contributed to the scandal, emphasizing the risks associated with investing in cryptocurrencies.
* The conversation touches on the larger issue of financial regulation and the need for greater transparency in the cryptocurrency market.
11. **Neotropics and Cognitive Enhancement:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the use of “neotropics,” substances believed to enhance cognitive function.
* They explore the alleged effects of neotropics on individuals like Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX, and their potential impact on decision-making.
* They discuss the risks and potential side effects of neotropics, referencing stories about individuals who have experienced negative consequences from using these substances.
* The conversation touches on the ethics of cognitive enhancement and the implications for personal responsibility and societal expectations.
12. **The Impact of Drugs on Behavior:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the potential impact of various drugs on behavior, specifically focusing on the connection between certain medications and compulsive gambling or hypersexuality.
* They discuss the controversial history of drugs like Reequip, a medication for Parkinson’s disease that was allegedly linked to compulsive behavior.
* The conversation touches on the broader issue of mental health and the challenges of treating complex conditions with pharmaceutical interventions.
13. **The Mental Health Industry and Pharmaceutical Marketing:**
* The podcast examines the mental health industry, highlighting the influence of pharmaceutical companies on diagnosis and treatment.
* They discuss the controversial “chemical imbalance” theory of depression and its role in promoting antidepressant medications.
* They challenge the validity of the “chemical imbalance” theory, citing research that suggests depression is a more complex condition.
* The conversation underscores the importance of critical thinking and skepticism when navigating the mental health system.
14. **Affinity Scams and Financial Exploitation:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the concept of “affinity scams,” financial schemes that prey on individuals within specific groups or communities.
* They discuss the case of Sam Bankman-Fried and the potential for him to have used his connections and pedigree to exploit investors.
* They analyze the role of trust and social connections in facilitating these scams.
* The conversation highlights the dangers of financial manipulation and the importance of due diligence before investing.
15. **The Epstein Island Scandal and Power Dynamics:**
* The podcast touches on the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, examining the power dynamics that allowed him to exploit individuals.
* They discuss the role of “guilt by association” and the use of prominent individuals to attract victims.
* They analyze the culture of entitlement and secrecy that may have facilitated Epstein’s crimes.
* The conversation underscores the importance of addressing systemic issues that allow individuals in positions of power to exploit others.
16. **The Role of the Media in Shaping Narratives:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the role of the media in shaping narratives and influencing public opinion.
* They critique the reliance on “puff pieces” and “hit pieces” to generate clicks and engagement.
* They express concerns about the potential for media manipulation to obscure the truth and serve the interests of powerful entities.
* The conversation highlights the importance of media literacy and independent journalism in navigating a complex information landscape.
17. **The Military Industrial Complex and Government Spending:**
* The podcast examines the influence of the military-industrial complex on government policy and foreign intervention.
* They discuss the rationale for the US intervention in Iraq and the potential for the military-industrial complex to profit from conflict.
* They critique the use of “shock and awe” tactics and the collateral damage that often accompanies military intervention.
* The conversation underscores the need for careful consideration of the costs and consequences of war.
18. **ESG Investing and Corporate Social Responsibility:**
* The podcast explores the concept of ESG investing, a focus on environmental, social, and governance factors in investment decisions.
* They discuss the potential for ESG to be used as a tool for corporate greenwashing and manipulation.
* They analyze the motivations behind ESG investing, examining the potential for financial gain and the influence of powerful entities.
* The conversation touches on the complexities of navigating corporate responsibility and the challenges of achieving genuine social impact.
19. **The Role of Government in Public Health:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the role of government in public health, specifically examining the effectiveness of vaccine mandates and the potential for misinformation to undermine public trust.
* They discuss the history of polio vaccines and the controversy surrounding vaccine-derived poliovirus.
* They highlight the potential for government overreach in public health measures and the importance of individual autonomy.
* The conversation touches on the broader issue of balancing public health concerns with individual liberties.
20. **The Assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise:**
* The podcast explores the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise, examining the alleged involvement of US mercenaries and the implications for US foreign policy.
* They discuss the history of US intervention in Haiti and the potential for the US to destabilize the country through its actions.
* The conversation touches on the complexities of US foreign policy and the ethical implications of military intervention.
21. **The Role of Humor in Challenging Authority:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the power of humor to challenge authority, highlighting instances where comedians have used satire and wit to expose corruption and hypocrisy.
* They reference the work of John Stewart, who famously challenged politicians like Condoleezza Rice and Hillary Clinton with pointed questions and observations.
* The conversation underscores the importance of humor as a tool for social critique.
22. **The Perils of Groupthink and Conformity:**
* The podcast explores the dangers of groupthink and conformity, highlighting the potential for individuals to suppress their own critical thinking in favor of aligning with a dominant narrative.
* They discuss the pressure to conform to certain social and political ideologies, particularly in the context of “cancel culture.”
* The conversation underscores the importance of independent thought and the need to question established narratives.
23. **The Power of Storytelling and Connecting with Audiences:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the power of storytelling and connecting with audiences through humor and honesty.
* They acknowledge the challenges of navigating a world where public discourse is increasingly polarized and fraught with conflict.
* They express their belief in the importance of sharing stories, even those that are difficult or controversial.
* The conversation highlights the human need for connection and the role of storytelling in fostering understanding and empathy.
24. **The Enduring Fascination with the Bizarre and the Unexplained:**
* The podcast explores the human fascination with the bizarre and the unexplained, touching on topics like Sasquatch, UFOs, and other mysterious phenomena.
* They discuss the “Sassquatch” documentary, which explores the possibility of Sasquatch as a real creature and its connection to marijuana grow operations.
* They analyze the evidence and the arguments surrounding these topics, acknowledging the enduring allure of the unknown.
* The conversation underscores the human desire to explore the limits of reality and find meaning in the mysteries of the universe.
25. **The Evolution of Humanity and Our Understanding of the Past:**
* The podcast delves into the evolution of humanity and our understanding of the past, specifically focusing on the discovery of ancient footprints and the implications for our knowledge of human history.
* They discuss the discovery of footprints in North America that suggest humans may have been present on the continent earlier than previously believed.
* They examine the challenges of dating ancient fossils and the ongoing process of refining our understanding of the past.
* The conversation underscores the dynamic nature of scientific discovery and the potential for new findings to reshape our understanding of our origins.
26. **The Impact of Technology on Human Behavior:**
* The podcast explores the impact of technology on human behavior, specifically focusing on the role of social media in shaping narratives and influencing public opinion.
* They discuss the potential for social media to spread misinformation and contribute to polarization.
* They analyze the business models of social media companies and the incentives that drive their behavior.
* The conversation highlights the need for critical thinking and media literacy in navigating the digital age.
27. **The Perils of Power and the Abuse of Authority:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the perils of power and the abuse of authority, referencing the stories of dictators like Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi.
* They explore the history of US intervention in Libya and its potential role in destabilizing the country.
* They examine the motivations behind US foreign policy and the potential for imperial ambitions to fuel conflict.
* The conversation underscores the importance of holding powerful individuals accountable and ensuring that power is not abused.
28. **The Importance of Questioning the Status Quo:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger emphasize the importance of questioning the status quo and challenging established narratives.
* They encourage listeners to be skeptical and critical of information they encounter, regardless of its source.
* The conversation underscores the need for independent thought and the value of diverse perspectives.
29. **The Role of Humor in Healing and Resilience:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the role of humor in healing and resilience, particularly in the face of challenging events or social injustices.
* They recognize the power of laughter to connect people, provide a sense of release, and offer a different perspective on difficult situations.
* The conversation highlights the importance of finding joy and meaning even in the midst of hardship.
30. **The Enduring Fascination with the Absurd:**
* The podcast explores the human fascination with the absurd, referencing stories like the “gerbil in the ass” rumor about actor Sylvester Stallone.
* They discuss the spread of misinformation and the potential for rumors to gain traction, even when they are clearly false.
* The conversation highlights the absurdity of human behavior and the enduring power of gossip and sensationalism.
31. **The Complexities of Identity and Social Justice:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the complexities of identity and social justice, touching on topics like transgender identity and the “woke takeover.”
* They explore the challenges of navigating a world where social norms and expectations are constantly evolving.
* The conversation highlights the importance of understanding different perspectives and approaching social issues with empathy and nuance.
32. **The Power of Music and Performance:**
* The podcast celebrates the power of music and performance, highlighting the experience of seeing Gary Clark Jr. perform live.
* They discuss the transformative nature of live music and the ability of artists to connect with audiences through their artistry.
* The conversation underscores the importance of music and performance as forms of self-expression and cultural connection.
33. **The Importance of Authenticity and Self-Expression:**
* Joe Rogan and Kurt Metzger discuss the importance of authenticity and self-expression, particularly in the context of stand-up comedy.
* They explore the challenges of navigating a world where conformity and social pressure can stifle creativity.
* The conversation underscores the value of individual voices and the need to speak one’s truth, even when it is uncomfortable or controversial.
**Memorable Quotes:**
* “I smoke so much more weed now because of being informed. I hate it, I mean, I really do, but I know I enjoy being that informed.” – Joe Rogan’s confession reflects the difficult but necessary reality of navigating a world saturated with information and misinformation.
* “It’s like, what lunch table do they sit at? Right? Do you wanna be at the right table or not?” – This statement highlights the pervasive nature of social hierarchy, even within seemingly unrelated settings like gyms.
* “The whole economy is a pyramid scheme.” – Michael Rupert’s assertion cuts to the heart of a systemic issue, raising questions about the sustainability of economic systems.
* “I think he worked there, man. I think he worked there for sure. Whether or not he worked there on something that actually came from another planet, that’s where it gets weird.” – This statement embodies the elusive nature of truth, particularly when dealing with seemingly outlandish claims.
* “I think they’re all whacked out on legal prescription drugs. Yeah. Yeah. They’re whacked out all the time. There’s another thing that he was taking in a transdermal patch. He was taking Fledgling or something like that.” – This comment reveals the hidden realities of drug use within high-level circles, challenging the perception of normalcy.
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