JRE #2139 – Akaash Singh

This podcast features stand-up comedian Akaash Singh, offering insights into his comedic style, experiences in the entertainment industry, and reflections on various topics.

Provocative and viral topics include navigating fame and dealing with negative online interactions, the allure of expensive items, the complexities of fame, and the impact of online hate. The podcast delves into deeper themes of personal growth, embracing challenges, navigating the entertainment industry, and the importance of self-reflection.

Topics:

1. **Fish Concert at the Sphere**

• Joe Rogan details the immersive experience of a Fish concert at the Sphere in Las Vegas, highlighting its advanced technology and psychedelic imagery.
• He expresses amazement at Fish’s massive cult following and compares them to a new generation of the Grateful Dead.
• The conversation emphasizes the unique venue’s potential for entertainment, mentioning an upcoming UFC event.
• The discussion highlights Fish’s ability to create a captivating and engaging show using the Sphere’s technology.

2. **Dana White and the UFC**

• Rogan praises Dana White’s dedication and genius in building the UFC into a mainstream organization.
• He discusses White’s ability to overcome criticism and maintain his vision, comparing him to Michael Jordan and Dave Portnoy.
• The conversation explores the importance of passion and resilience in leadership, emphasizing the power of ignoring negative feedback.
• Rogan highlights White’s unwavering commitment to his goals, illustrating his success in transforming the UFC from a niche sport to a global phenomenon.

3. **Navigating Fame and Online Hate**

• Akaash Singh shares his personal strategy for dealing with negative online interactions, emphasizing the importance of ignoring negativity.
• He acknowledges the natural human tendency to care about opinions but argues against dwelling on negativity and its impact on mental health.
• The conversation explores the power of self-awareness and personal growth, suggesting that negative online energy can be detrimental.
• Akaash emphasizes the need to focus on positive interactions and building a supportive community, highlighting the importance of prioritizing real-life connections.

4. **The Allure of Expensive Things**

• Akaash discusses his newfound interest in watches, acknowledging his wife’s influence and financial prudence.
• He shares a personal lesson about the diminishing returns of expensive items, suggesting that true enjoyment lies in appreciating what you have rather than chasing material possessions.
• The conversation highlights the stress associated with constantly striving for more, emphasizing the importance of financial responsibility.
• Akaash advocates for appreciating the simple things in life, suggesting that contentment comes from within rather than from external possessions.

5. **The Impact of the Internet on Society**

• Rogan and Akaash discuss the internet’s influence on social issues, highlighting its role in amplifying polarization and creating echo chambers.
• They acknowledge the internet’s ability to both empower individuals and facilitate the spread of misinformation.
• The conversation touches upon the challenges of navigating online information and the importance of critical thinking.
• Rogan and Akaash explore the potential for the internet to both exacerbate existing problems and offer new solutions, emphasizing the need for a balanced perspective.

6. **The Complexities of Fame**

• Akaash reflects on the challenges of maintaining normalcy in the spotlight, describing the constant attention and scrutiny that comes with fame.
• He shares how he learns from the experiences of friends and colleagues who have achieved greater success, highlighting the importance of seeking guidance and support.
• The conversation touches upon the impact of fame on personal relationships and the potential for isolation.
• Akaash emphasizes the need to remain grounded and true to oneself even as the demands of fame increase.

7. **The Importance of Personal Growth**

• Akaash discusses his journey of letting go of negative emotions like jealousy and anger, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection.
• He acknowledges the need to recognize and address personal insecurities, suggesting that growth comes from confronting and overcoming internal obstacles.
• The conversation explores the power of self-awareness and its impact on relationships and career success.
• Akaash encourages listeners to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and improvement.

8. **The Entertainment Industry and Hollywood Culture**

• Akaash shares his insights into the Hollywood entertainment industry, discussing the pressures of fame and the desire for validation.
• He highlights the importance of remaining true to oneself and not letting the industry dictate one’s path.
• The conversation touches upon the disconnect between Hollywood’s perceived progressiveness and its reality.
• Akaash emphasizes the need to navigate the industry with a strong sense of self and not be swayed by external pressures.

9. **The State of American Politics**

• Rogan and Akaash discuss their views on the current political climate in America, expressing concerns about polarization and the influence of special interest groups.
• They discuss the impact of political campaigns on decision-making and the importance of critical thinking.
• The conversation delves into the complexities of American politics, highlighting the challenges of navigating a system that often seems designed to serve the interests of the powerful.
• Rogan and Akaash explore potential solutions to improve the political landscape, emphasizing the need for reform and a greater focus on serving the needs of ordinary citizens.

10. **The Role of the Media**

• Rogan and Akaash discuss the media’s role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information.
• They express concerns about the influence of corporate interests on news coverage and the spread of misinformation.
• The conversation highlights the importance of independent journalism and critical analysis.
• Rogan and Akaash emphasize the need for a more balanced and transparent media landscape, advocating for greater accountability and a commitment to truth.

11. **The Importance of Diversity in Comedy**

• Akaash discusses his background as an Indian-American comedian, sharing his experiences of navigating cultural differences and stereotypes.
• He emphasizes the importance of representation in comedy and the need to challenge traditional norms.
• The conversation highlights the power of humor to bridge divides and foster understanding.
• Akaash encourages listeners to embrace diversity and celebrate different perspectives.

12. **The Impact of the Pandemic on Society**

• Rogan and Akaash reflect on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on society, discussing the contrasting responses and the lasting implications.
• They explore the role of science and government in navigating the pandemic and the challenges of balancing public health with individual freedom.
• The conversation touches upon the spread of misinformation and the polarization surrounding the pandemic.
• Rogan and Akaash offer their perspectives on the lessons learned from the pandemic and its impact on the future.

13. **The Power of Stand-up Comedy**

• Akaash discusses the importance of stand-up comedy as a platform for self-expression and social commentary.
• He emphasizes the need for comedians to find their own voice and not be afraid to challenge societal norms.
• The conversation highlights the power of humor to entertain, provoke, and inspire.
• Akaash encourages aspiring comedians to embrace their individuality and pursue their passion.

14. **The Importance of Mental Health**

• Akaash and Rogan discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being, highlighting the challenges of navigating stress and pressure in the entertainment industry.
• They discuss the impact of trauma and the need for self-care.
• The conversation touches upon the stigma surrounding mental health and the importance of seeking help when needed.
• Rogan and Akaash encourage listeners to prioritize their mental health and seek support from friends, family, or professionals.

15. **The Future of Entertainment**

• Rogan and Akaash delve into the future of entertainment, discussing the impact of AI and emerging technologies on the industry.
• They explore the possibilities and challenges of AI-generated content and its potential to transform the way we create and consume entertainment.
• The conversation highlights the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the need for a balanced approach.
• Rogan and Akaash express their excitement and curiosity about the future of entertainment, acknowledging the transformative potential of AI while also recognizing the need to be mindful of its impact.

16. **The Importance of Community**

• Akaash emphasizes the value of community and support in navigating the challenges of life and career.
• He highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with positive and supportive people.
• The conversation touches upon the role of friendship and mentorship in personal growth.
• Akaash encourages listeners to cultivate meaningful connections and build a network of people who can provide support and encouragement.

17. **The Power of Humor**

• Rogan and Akaash discuss the transformative power of humor, highlighting its ability to bring people together, challenge societal norms, and provide a release from stress.
• They explore the role of laughter in coping with difficult situations and promoting well-being.
• The conversation touches upon the importance of finding humor in everyday life and using it to navigate challenges.
• Rogan and Akaash encourage listeners to embrace humor as a powerful tool for navigating life’s ups and downs.

18. **The Importance of Self-Reflection**

• Akaash discusses the value of self-reflection and personal growth, encouraging listeners to examine their own beliefs and biases.
• He highlights the importance of being open to new perspectives and challenging assumptions.
• The conversation touches upon the need for constant learning and development.
• Akaash encourages listeners to engage in self-reflection to understand themselves better and make positive changes.

19. **The Value of Vulnerability**

• Akaash discusses the importance of vulnerability in building connections and fostering authenticity.
• He acknowledges the challenges of sharing personal stories and being open with others.
• The conversation touches upon the power of vulnerability to inspire and connect with others.
• Akaash encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability as a path to deeper connection and understanding.

20. **The Importance of Storytelling**

• Akaash shares his passion for storytelling and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
• He discusses the power of personal stories to inspire, educate, and entertain.
• The conversation touches upon the importance of sharing stories that resonate with others.
• Akaash encourages listeners to embrace storytelling as a powerful tool for communication and connection.

Memorable Quotes:

• “I don’t like that kind of stress in my life. I don’t like dwelling on things. I don’t like creating additional conflict. Maybe I did when I was younger but that shit doesn’t seem appealing to me at all.” – Akaash Singh on choosing to ignore negativity.
• “The only time nice things are worth it is when they’re kind of free. Meaning not that they’re free but that you don’t feel it.” – Akaash on the diminishing returns of material possessions.
• “The internet is the variability of human beings is so extreme there’s so many different kinds of people that’s one of the things that you realize when you do a podcast for sure.” – Rogan on the diverse range of human experiences.
• “I don’t think you could be some amazing person who is out there like Jose on dress going to these crisis areas and feeding people in Palestine.” – Rogan on the spectrum of human behavior.
• “If you’re really bad at something like listening for example it only shows you that hey you have to practice.” – Rogan on the importance of continuous learning and improvement.