JRE #2098 – Shane Gillis & Matt McCusker

This Joe Rogan Experience podcast features comedians Shane Gillis and Matt McCusker, known for their stand-up and “Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast.” The episode explores a range of topics, including personal anecdotes, observations on society, and discussions about combat sports. Underlying themes include the comedic perspective on everyday life, the nature of success in the entertainment industry, and the intricacies of physical competition.

1. Shane Gillis’s Gluten Intolerance:

• Gillis reveals he’s been living with gluten intolerance since he was 21.
• He explains that while it’s not Celiac disease, consuming gluten leads to discomfort and burping.
• The discussion highlights the potential for undiagnosed conditions to impact daily life.
• Rogan contrasts Gillis’s intolerance with his own ability to consume large amounts of beer.

2. The Importance of Staying Sober in the Entertainment Industry:

• Gillis emphasizes the need for self-discipline, particularly in the fast-paced entertainment world.
• He acknowledges the temptation to indulge in alcohol and other substances, but chooses to prioritize his career and health.
• This discussion touches on the pressure and challenges faced by comedians and entertainers.
• Gillis contrasts his approach with those who “turn a corner” and become excessive drinkers.

3. Kid Rock’s Role in the UFC’s Sponsorship Deal with Bud Light:

• Gillis and McCusker discuss the controversy surrounding Kid Rock’s public destruction of Bud Light cans, a brand the UFC had partnered with.
• This incident serves as a reminder of the potential impact of celebrity actions on brand reputation.
• The discussion touches on the delicate balance between artistic expression and corporate sponsorship.
• They speculate on the UFC’s boardroom reaction and the potential for a similar incident to occur with another brand.

4. The UFC’s Relationship with Alcohol Sponsorship:

• Rogan expresses a playful suggestion that the UFC should have fighters drink a beer before each fight.
• This humorous idea highlights the ongoing debate about alcohol consumption and its role in combat sports.
• The discussion acknowledges the practicalities of sponsorship deals and the likelihood of such an idea being implemented.
• They consider the potential consequences of altering the pre-fight routine of fighters.

5. The Use of Ice Packs in Boxing:

• The conversation turns to the practice of using ice packs as a form of treatment for fighters after a bout.
• Gillis and McCusker explore the effectiveness and potential risks of this method, particularly in terms of reducing swelling and improving vision.
• They discuss the specific instance of Tyson vs. Buster Douglas, highlighting the lack of ice packs in Tyson’s corner.
• This discussion touches on the historical context of boxing practices and the ongoing evolution of training methods.

6. The Importance of Professionalism in Combat Sports:

• Rogan highlights the significance of having a skilled and dedicated team in a fighter’s corner.
• He shares anecdotes about fighters’ relationships with referees, emphasizing the impact of familiarity and trust.
• The discussion underscores the importance of maintaining professional boundaries, particularly when friendships exist between athletes and officials.
• They discuss the potential for bias or favoritism when these lines become blurred.

7. The Role of Parents in Youth Combat Sports:

• Gillis and McCusker discuss the emotional intensity of watching children participate in combat sports.
• They acknowledge the instinctive protective instincts of parents and the potential for overreacting to perceived harm to their children.
• This discussion highlights the importance of setting boundaries and expectations within youth sports.
• They contrast the pressure parents place on their children in combat sports with more relaxed approaches in other athletic pursuits.

8. The Hylio Gracie’s Approach to Handling Losses:

• Rogan shares a story about the legendary Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner Hylio Gracie rewarding his children for losses.
• This unique approach aimed to mitigate the fear of competition and encourage growth.
• The discussion highlights the significance of positive reinforcement and creating a supportive environment for young athletes.
• They consider the potential for this approach to encourage resilience and minimize the psychological impact of defeats.

9. The Viral Video of a Dad Interfering in a Wrestling Match:

• Gillis and McCusker discuss a viral video of a father attacking a wrestler who he believed was using an illegal chokehold on his son.
• The incident highlights the extreme reactions of parents in youth combat sports.
• The discussion delves into the rules of wrestling and the potential for misinterpretations by parents who may lack familiarity with the sport.
• They speculate on the potential consequences for the father, including a lifetime ban from wrestling events.

10. The Importance of Understanding Sports Rules:

• The discussion touches on the importance of understanding the rules and regulations of different sports.
• Gillis admits to his limited knowledge of wrestling, highlighting the potential for misunderstandings when observing unfamiliar sports.
• The conversation underscores the need for education and awareness within sports, particularly when observing youth competitions.
• They recognize the need to avoid making assumptions and to rely on accurate information when judging the legality of moves.

11. The “Schoolyard Choke” in MMA:

• Rogan explains the “schoolyard choke” technique, a submission hold used by Carlos Newton to defeat Pat Miletich for the welterweight title.
• This discussion delves into the technical aspects of MMA fighting and the effectiveness of specific submission moves.
• They discuss the historical significance of the match and the evolution of MMA techniques.
• The conversation highlights the contrast between wrestling rules and the more open nature of MMA fighting.

12. Matt Hughes’s Wrestling Prowess:

• The conversation focuses on Matt Hughes, a former UFC welterweight champion known for his wrestling skills.
• Rogan describes Hughes’s ability to choke out Ricardo Almeida using a wrestling move, demonstrating his mastery of both wrestling and submission techniques.
• They discuss Hughes’s legacy in MMA and his impact on the sport.
• The conversation touches on the historical context of MMA and the evolution of the sport, particularly the integration of wrestling skills.

13. The Fear of Getting Robbed in Rio de Janeiro:

• McCusker shares an experience of getting robbed at knifepoint in Rio de Janeiro.
• This anecdote highlights the potential dangers of traveling to certain areas and the importance of safety precautions.
• The conversation touches on the realities of crime and poverty in Rio and its impact on tourists.
• They acknowledge the shock and disassociation experienced during a robbery and the potential for a range of reactions.

14. The Prevalence of Counterfeiting:

• Rogan and Gillis discuss the ongoing issue of counterfeiting, particularly related to money and luxury goods.
• They express surprise at the difficulty of perfectly recreating currency, considering the advanced technology available.
• The discussion touches on the economic impact of counterfeiting and the efforts of authorities to combat it.
• They speculate on the motivation behind counterfeiting and the potential implications for individuals caught engaging in the practice.

15. The Arrest of Killer Mike:

• Rogan and McCusker discuss the arrest of rapper Killer Mike for a minor offense, sparking online speculation about political motivations.
• This discussion touches on the current political climate and the potential for selective enforcement of laws.
• They consider the contrast between the arrest of Killer Mike and the high crime rates in Los Angeles, highlighting potential inconsistencies in law enforcement.
• The conversation explores the impact of celebrity status and public perception on legal proceedings.

16. Taylor Swift’s Popularity and the Reactions to It:

• Rogan and McCusker discuss Taylor Swift’s widespread popularity and the surprising number of people who express dislike or opposition to her success.
• This discussion touches on the psychology of celebrity culture and the potential for envy or resentment towards those perceived as achieving extraordinary success.
• They explore the potential for Swift’s popularity to be perceived as a threat to the status quo or existing power structures.
• The conversation highlights the complex dynamics of fame and the polarized reactions it can elicit.

17. The Impact of Taylor Swift’s Presence on Football Games:

• McCusker expresses his annoyance at the presence of Taylor Swift during football games, highlighting the distraction her appearances can cause.
• This discussion touches on the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting and the increasing integration of entertainment elements.
• They consider the potential for celebrity appearances to enhance or detract from the viewer experience.
• The conversation highlights the different perspectives on the role of entertainment in sports and the potential for conflict between fans and broadcasters.

18. The Challenges of Shoveling Snow:

• Rogan and McCusker discuss the physical demands and potential hazards of shoveling snow.
• They share personal anecdotes about shoveling snow, including the use of alcohol and marijuana to cope with the workload.
• The discussion highlights the challenges of working in inclement weather and the potential for injury.
• They contrast the physical demands of shoveling snow with other forms of labor and the importance of safety precautions.

19. The Unique Experience of Snow:

• Rogan and McCusker discuss the beauty and tranquility of snowy environments.
• They reflect on the unique sensory experience of snow, including the absence of sound and the feeling of being in a movie.
• The discussion touches on the psychological impact of snow and the potential for a sense of wonder and awe.
• They acknowledge the nostalgic feeling associated with snow days and the memories it evokes.

20. The Importance of Safety in Youth Wrestling:

• Gillis and McCusker discuss the importance of safety precautions in youth wrestling, particularly concerning the potential for head injuries.
• They analyze a wrestling match where a child is thrown headfirst to the ground, raising concerns about the referee’s response.
• The discussion highlights the importance of appropriate supervision and intervention in youth sports to prevent serious injuries.
• They contrast the rules and practices in youth wrestling with those in more established combat sports like MMA.

21. The Role of Emotion in Dog Parks:

• Gillis and McCusker discuss the intense emotions that can arise in dog parks, particularly when dogs engage in aggressive play.
• They share personal anecdotes about their own experiences with aggressive dogs and the reactions of owners.
• The discussion highlights the importance of responsible dog ownership and the potential for conflict when dogs are not properly socialized.
• They acknowledge the challenge of balancing the natural instincts of dogs with the need for safe and controlled environments.

22. The Origin and Purpose of Poodles:

• Gillis and McCusker discuss the origin and historical purpose of poodles, highlighting their role as water dogs and bird hunters.
• They touch on the breed’s reputation as a fashionable dog and the perception of them as being primarily kept by aristocrats or wealthy individuals.
• The discussion explores the evolution of dog breeds and the various roles they have played in human society.
• They acknowledge the diverse range of dog breeds and their unique characteristics.

5 Memorable Quotes from the Podcast:

• “I’ve had it since I was like 21. It’s like Celiac, if I had it, I won’t die, I’ll just start burping every, you know.” – Shane Gillis explains his gluten intolerance.
• “You never let it, it wouldn’t happen without this. Listen, I’m so happy. I’m so happy.” – Shane Gillis emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication.
• “I’m sure that I was in like Honduras. I was like, yeah, here’s a 20 bucks. They’re like, well, we can’t take this.” – Matt McCusker recounts a humorous experience with foreign currency.
• “Yeah, kill her, Mike is like a. Kill her, Mike’s not even a creative name. It’s like a name that’s like the dumb guy in the neighborhood.” – Shane Gillis finds amusement in the name of rapper Killer Mike.
• “You don’t put your hands on our queen, not after last night. She had she did she do well as I saw the news. She did a lot in the Grammys.” – Rogan expresses support for Taylor Swift and her recent success.