11-Jul-23
This podcast features Joe Rogan’s conversation with stand-up comic Brian Simpson, covering a wide range of topics from the tragic fate of the Titan submersible to the depths of the ocean, the nature of addiction and the power dynamics in Hollywood, as well as more lighthearted discussions on the merits of one-person podcasts, the comedic potential of regret, and the absurdity of smelling salts. The podcast explores underlying themes of human nature, the pursuit of meaning, the complex relationship between wealth and freedom, and the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment and online culture.
1. The Titan Submersible Tragedy:
Rogan and Simpson dive into the tragic fate of the Titan submersible and the five individuals lost at sea, reflecting on the potential causes of the disaster, the lack of safety measures and the ongoing investigation.
2. The Power of One-Person Podcasts:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the benefits of one-person podcasts as a platform for comedians to explore their thoughts and develop new material, highlighting the example of Bill Burr and Tim Dillon.
3. The Comedic Value of Regret:
Simpson explains how his podcast allows him to explore his regrets and anxieties, finding comedic gold amidst uncomfortable truths.
4. The Allure and Dangers of Wealth:
Rogan and Simpson delve into the motivations behind the pursuit of wealth, questioning whether it truly equates to freedom. They discuss the stories of billionaires like Jeff Bezos and the controversial anti-aging practices of other wealthy individuals, exploring the complexities of hubris and the insatiable desire for more.
5. The Evolution of Entertainment and Online Culture:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the rise of online content, including the impact of social media on comedy and the popularity of meme culture. They touch upon the evolving nature of stand-up comedy, noting the increasing importance of stage time and the rise of new comedic platforms like the “Kill Tony” show and the “Bottom of the Barrel” improvised comedy show.
6. The Power Dynamics in Hollywood:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the financial and creative power dynamics that exist in Hollywood, exploring the often-exploitative nature of the entertainment industry, specifically in relation to the Comedy Store and the unequal distribution of wealth.
7. The Role of Competition and the Pursuit of Meaning:
Rogan and Simpson contemplate the role of competition in human nature, questioning whether it drives innovation or simply creates an illusion of purpose. They discuss the impact of competition in the military and in the realm of sports, acknowledging the inherent human need for an “enemy” to unite against.
8. The Ethics of Deep Fakes and the Erosion of Truth:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the implications of deep fake technology, exploring the potential for deception and the erosion of trust in the age of misinformation. They discuss the controversial use of deep fakes in advertising, particularly in the case of Bruce Willis, and the potential for manipulating public perception.
9. The Power of Belief Systems:
Rogan and Simpson delve into the power of belief systems, specifically examining the experiences of Leah Remini in Scientology. They explore the alluring promises of Scientology, the indoctrination process, and the challenges of escaping its control.
10. The Nature of Addiction:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the complex nature of addiction, exploring its various forms, from substance abuse to gambling, and the psychological and societal factors that contribute to its development.
11. The Dangers of Smelling Salts:
Rogan and Simpson explore the bizarre world of smelling salts, questioning their efficacy and safety. They discuss the potential risks associated with these products, particularly in the context of athletic performance.
12. The Politics of Pardons:
Rogan and Simpson delve into the politics of pardons, highlighting the unequal application of justice and the influence of power and wealth in shaping legal outcomes. They discuss the cases of Hunter Biden and Kodak Black, prompting reflections on the complexities of the criminal justice system.
13. The Submersible’s Lack of Safety Measures:
Simpson shares his concerns about the Titan submersible’s lack of safety protocols, highlighting the absence of an emergency surface button or a transponder. They discuss the lack of a plan B in case of an emergency, highlighting the fatal flaws in the design and operation of the submersible.
14. The Intricacies of Transition:
Rogan and Simpson delve into the complexities of gender identity and the process of transition. They touch upon the controversies surrounding autogonophilia and the often-misunderstood nature of transgender experiences.
15. The Absurdity of Bath Salts:
Rogan and Simpson explore the bizarre world of bath salts, discussing their intended and unintended uses, the danger of mislabeling, and the connection to other amphetamine-like drugs.
16. The Power of Humor in Difficult Times:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the role of humor in coping with difficult circumstances. They touch upon the power of memes as a form of cultural commentary, noting their ability to both entertain and provoke.
17. The Importance of Nurturing the Art Form:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the importance of supporting emerging artists and the need for robust open mic nights in comedy clubs. They advocate for a more equitable and inclusive approach to the comedy scene, emphasizing the value of community and the growth that comes from fostering a diverse range of voices.
18. The Importance of Empathy:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the significance of empathy, particularly in the context of public discourse and online communication. They acknowledge the challenges of maintaining respectful dialogue in an increasingly polarized world, but advocate for the importance of understanding and connecting with others.
19. The Power of Storytelling:
Simpson discusses the power of storytelling as a means of connecting with others and sharing personal experiences. He reflects on his journey as a comedian and the role of storytelling in his artistic expression.
20. The Importance of Personal Growth:
Rogan and Simpson discuss the importance of personal growth and the challenges of confronting difficult truths. They reflect on their own experiences with self-discovery and the value of introspection.
5 Memorable Quotes:
1. “You don’t have a plan B, see, you know, it’s just like, ‘Well, we’ll figure it out.'” – Simpson expresses his frustration with the lack of preparedness and safety measures in the Titan submersible.
2. “Money is just gambling coupons.” – Rogan highlights the addictive nature of gambling and the pursuit of wealth.
3. “Sometimes you gotta get through all of the unfunny to find the funny.” – Simpson articulates the process of finding humor in uncomfortable situations.
4. “The need for purpose is a human affliction. The need for things to mean something.” – Rogan discusses the human need for meaning and purpose.
5. “That was one of the worst things I’ve never smelled.” – Simpson reacts to the potent smell of smelling salts, emphasizing its intensity.