JRE #23 – Brian Redban

This podcast features a casual conversation between Joe Rogan and Brian Redban, exploring a wide range of topics, from personal anecdotes and philosophical musings to controversial opinions on sex, technology, and societal issues. The discussion dives into the depths of human behavior, societal trends, and the impact of technology on our lives. Underlying themes revolve around the complexities of human nature, the pursuit of knowledge, and the ever-evolving nature of our world.

1. Joe Rogan’s Obsessive Nature:

• Rogan openly discusses his struggles with obsessions, particularly with video games and other activities, acknowledging the detrimental impact it can have on personal life and relationships.
• He highlights the paradoxical nature of obsessions, recognizing how they can fuel success but also lead to unhealthy levels of focus and neglect of other aspects of life.
• Rogan emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing these obsessive tendencies to maintain a balanced and fulfilling life.
• This discussion sets the stage for exploring other themes related to human behavior, like the pursuit of pleasure and the challenges of navigating our own minds.

2. The Fleshlight Sponsorship and Male Insecurities:

• The podcast delves into the humorous and uncomfortable territory of male insecurities surrounding masturbation and the use of sex toys.
• Rogan and Redban banter about the perceived “unmanliness” of using a Fleshlight, contrasting it with readily accepted products like loofah sponges.
• The discussion highlights societal double standards and the stigma associated with male sexuality and pleasure.
• This exploration of male insecurities sets the stage for a broader discussion of societal norms and the impact of cultural conditioning on human behavior.

3. The Complicated Nature of Technology:

• Rogan and Redban grapple with the complex relationship between technology and human beings, highlighting the constant learning curve and the potential for frustration.
• They discuss their individual experiences with computers and software, revealing contrasting perspectives on user-friendliness and the need for constant problem-solving.
• The podcast touches upon the potential for technological advancement to both improve and complicate our lives, raising questions about the future of human-machine interaction.
• This discussion provides a foundation for exploring the ethical and societal implications of technology, particularly in the context of privacy, surveillance, and the potential for technological singularity.

4. The Power of Electricity:

• Rogan expresses a sense of awe and fear regarding the omnipresence of electricity, acknowledging its immense power and potential danger.
• He recounts a childhood experience with electricity, highlighting the ease with which it can cause harm, especially to children.
• This discussion delves into the inherent risk associated with technology and the responsibility we have to understand and manage its use.
• The exploration of electricity provides a segue into conversations about safety, the importance of education, and the need for cautious innovation.

5. The Spectrum of Human Intelligence:

• Rogan tackles the uncomfortable topic of human intelligence, recognizing the broad spectrum of abilities and the societal need for diverse skills.
• He highlights the challenges faced by individuals perceived as “idiots” due to social conditioning, poor upbringing, or negative influences.
• The discussion emphasizes the importance of personal growth, positive relationships, and the potential for self-improvement regardless of perceived intellectual limitations.
• This exploration of human intelligence sets the stage for conversations about education, social mobility, and the impact of societal structures on individual potential.

6. The Importance of Positive Relationships:

• Rogan emphasizes the detrimental effects of negative relationships, highlighting how they drain energy and hinder personal growth.
• He urges listeners to prioritize positive connections, recognizing that surrounding oneself with supportive and uplifting individuals is essential for self-improvement.
• This discussion underscores the value of conscious relationship choices and the importance of fostering healthy and enriching interactions.
• The exploration of relationships provides a context for discussing the psychological impact of interpersonal dynamics and the importance of creating positive support systems.

7. The Allure and Disappointment of Celebrities:

• Rogan delves into the complex and often conflicting emotions associated with celebrities, recognizing their allure but also acknowledging the potential for disappointment.
• He expresses a sense of disillusionment with Dolly Parton, suggesting that the mystique surrounding celebrities often fades upon closer examination.
• This discussion touches upon the nature of fandom, the complexities of human perception, and the challenges of separating idealized images from reality.
• The exploration of celebrity culture provides a lens for examining societal values, the role of media in shaping perceptions, and the psychological impact of idolizing individuals.

8. The Uncanny Nature of Makeup and Cosmetic Surgery:

• Rogan challenges societal norms surrounding beauty standards, expressing a sense of unease with the use of makeup and cosmetic surgery.
• He questions the rationale behind altering one’s appearance and highlights the artificiality of these practices.
• The discussion delves into the complexities of human attraction, the influence of societal pressures, and the potential for these practices to distort self-perception.
• This exploration of beauty standards raises questions about the definition of beauty, the impact of cultural norms, and the psychological effects of striving for unattainable ideals.

9. The Controversial Nature of Fake Breasts:

• Rogan dives into the contentious realm of breast augmentation, expressing his personal perspective on the matter, acknowledging the allure of fake breasts but also expressing a sense of unease.
• He contrasts the sensation of touching real breasts with the feeling of touching implants, highlighting the difference in physical experience and the potential for psychological impact.
• This discussion raises questions about the ethics of altering one’s body for aesthetic purposes, the role of societal pressures, and the potential for these practices to affect self-image and relationships.
• The exploration of fake breasts provides a springboard for deeper conversations about body image, self-acceptance, and the complexities of human sexuality.

10. The Dark Side of Pornography:

• The podcast takes a dark turn as Rogan and Redban discuss the disturbing aspects of pornography, focusing on the work of Max Hardcore and the potential for humiliation and psychological damage.
• They express disgust and concern over the sadistic content produced by Max Hardcore, highlighting the potential for this type of pornography to contribute to negative societal perceptions and behaviors.
• This discussion delves into the ethics of consent, the potential for exploitation, and the impact of pornography on individual self-esteem and relationships.
• The exploration of the darker side of pornography prompts conversations about the role of media in shaping values, the impact of harmful content, and the need for responsible consumption.

11. The Prevalence of “Gimp” Porn and Societal Acceptance:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the surprising popularity of “gimp” porn, a subgenre involving a large, overweight man being subjected to humiliation and degradation by women.
• They attempt to understand the motivations behind this type of content, acknowledging the vast diversity of human desires and the potential for these desires to be expressed in unexpected ways.
• The discussion raises questions about the boundaries of acceptable sexual expression, the influence of cultural norms, and the role of the internet in facilitating access to niche content.
• The exploration of “gimp” porn encourages conversations about the complexities of human sexuality, the importance of respecting individual preferences, and the potential for online platforms to amplify fringe interests.

12. The Changing Landscape of Pornography and the Internet:

• Rogan and Redban speculate about the impact of the internet on the pornography industry, recognizing the shift towards online platforms and the potential for decreased demand for physical media.
• They discuss the evolving nature of pornographic content, recognizing the emergence of niche subgenres and the increasing accessibility of diverse material.
• This discussion highlights the transformative power of the internet, its impact on traditional industries, and the potential for continued disruption in the future.
• The exploration of online pornography provides a context for discussing the future of media consumption, the evolving role of technology in our lives, and the potential for further societal shifts.

13. The Hidden World of the “Dominion” Website:

• Rogan and Redban stumble upon a shocking website known as “Dominion” that specializes in humiliation and degradation porn, featuring a large, overweight man being subjected to various forms of abuse by women.
• They express their astonishment at the existence of such content and the prevalence of these types of sexual fantasies and desires.
• This discussion delves into the darker side of human sexuality, highlighting the potential for power dynamics, humiliation, and degradation to play a role in sexual expression.
• The exploration of the “Dominion” website prompts conversations about the ethical implications of exploiting individuals for sexual gratification, the role of consent, and the potential for online platforms to amplify disturbing content.

14. The Mystery of the Guatemala Sinkhole:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the mysterious appearance of a giant sinkhole in Guatemala, expressing their amazement at its size and the potential danger it poses.
• They delve into the geological processes that could have created such a massive hole, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the Earth and the potential for catastrophic events.
• This discussion touches upon the fragility of human infrastructure and the need to be prepared for unexpected disasters.
• The exploration of the sinkhole provides a segue into conversations about the power of nature, the importance of environmental awareness, and the need for responsible development.

15. The Controversy Surrounding Steve Jobs and Open Source:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the ongoing debate surrounding Steve Jobs’s approach to technology, particularly his stance on open source software and the closed system of Apple products.
• They explore the arguments for and against both sides of the debate, acknowledging the benefits of open source software but also recognizing the advantages of Apple’s tightly controlled ecosystem.
• This discussion touches upon the complexities of innovation, the balance between control and freedom, and the potential for technology to both empower and restrict.
• The exploration of Steve Jobs’s legacy provides a context for understanding the future of technology, the evolving relationship between companies and users, and the potential for technological advancement to impact societal structures.

16. The Foxconn Suicides and the Ethical Implications of Cheap Labor:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the disturbing series of suicides at Foxconn, a Chinese manufacturing company responsible for producing a wide range of electronic devices, raising concerns about the ethical implications of cheap labor and working conditions.
• They examine the factors contributing to these suicides, highlighting the pressures of working long hours, living in cramped conditions, and facing low wages.
• This discussion prompts conversations about the responsibilities of corporations to their employees, the need for fair labor practices, and the ethical considerations of global manufacturing.
• The exploration of the Foxconn suicides provides a lens for examining the complexities of globalization, the impact of economic disparities, and the need for greater social justice in a globalized world.

17. The Potential for a Robot-Dominated Future:

• Rogan and Redban speculate about the potential for robots to replace human workers in the future, raising questions about the impact on employment and the economy.
• They discuss the potential for robots to both enhance and disrupt society, acknowledging both the benefits of automation and the risks of widespread job displacement.
• This discussion delves into the philosophical implications of artificial intelligence, the potential for technological singularity, and the need for responsible development of advanced technologies.
• The exploration of a robot-dominated future provides a springboard for conversations about the future of work, the role of technology in shaping society, and the ethical considerations of artificial intelligence.

18. The Vulnerability of Modern Cars to Hacking:

• Rogan and Redban discuss a recent report revealing that modern cars equipped with OnStar technology are vulnerable to hacking, raising concerns about the potential for theft, sabotage, and even the remote control of vehicles.
• They explore the implications of this vulnerability, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures and the growing risks associated with connected vehicles.
• This discussion delves into the realm of cybersecurity, the importance of protecting personal data, and the need for robust security protocols in an increasingly connected world.
• The exploration of car hacking provides a context for understanding the vulnerabilities of our digital infrastructure, the potential for malicious actors to exploit these vulnerabilities, and the need for constant vigilance in a cyber-dependent society.

19. The Prevalence of Stalkers and the Dangers of Modern Technology:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the concerning ease with which individuals can track and monitor others using modern technology, highlighting the potential for stalking, harassment, and even violence.
• They explore the availability of affordable tracking devices and the potential for these devices to be misused, raising concerns about the safety and privacy of individuals.
• This discussion underscores the importance of being aware of these dangers, taking steps to protect oneself, and advocating for greater privacy protections in a digitally connected world.
• The exploration of stalking and technological surveillance prompts conversations about the ethical implications of technology, the need for greater awareness and education, and the potential for technology to be used for both good and evil.

20. The Impact of Psychedelic Drugs on Human Consciousness:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the profound and often lasting impact of psychedelic drugs on human consciousness, exploring the potential for these substances to alter perceptions, facilitate introspection, and even trigger spiritual awakenings.
• They delve into the complexities of psychedelic experiences, acknowledging the potential for both positive and negative outcomes, emphasizing the importance of responsible use and proper preparation.
• This discussion touches upon the role of psychedelics in human history, the potential for these substances to facilitate personal growth, and the need for greater understanding and research.
• The exploration of psychedelic experiences provides a springboard for conversations about altered states of consciousness, the nature of reality, and the potential for human beings to transcend conventional limitations.

21. The Legalization of Marijuana and the Conflict of Interest:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the ongoing debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana, exploring the conflicting perspectives of medical marijuana advocates and medical professionals who stand to lose financially from its legalization.
• They acknowledge the potential for marijuana to provide therapeutic benefits, but also recognize the potential for conflict of interest among those who profit from its current legal status.
• This discussion raises questions about the role of money in influencing policy, the importance of transparency in healthcare, and the need for ethical considerations in the pursuit of medical advancement.
• The exploration of marijuana legalization provides a context for understanding the complexities of healthcare policy, the influence of corporate interests, and the need for a balanced approach to drug policy.

22. The Unpredictable Nature of MMA Fights:

• Rogan and Redban discuss the unpredictable nature of MMA fights, highlighting how even seemingly dominant fighters can be defeated with a single well-placed strike.
• They delve into the inherent dangers of the sport, the importance of strategy and conditioning, and the potential for unexpected outcomes.
• This discussion underscores the thrill and excitement of MMA, the importance of preparedness, and the need for respect for the risks involved in combat sports.
• The exploration of MMA fights provides a springboard for conversations about the nature of competition, the pursuit of victory, and the potential for human beings to achieve extraordinary feats of strength and resilience.

23. The Importance of Recognizing and Managing Our “Fucked Up” Nature:

• Rogan and Redban conclude the podcast by acknowledging the “fucked up” nature of human beings, recognizing the potential for both good and evil within each individual.
• They emphasize the importance of recognizing and managing our own “fucked up” tendencies, striving for personal growth and seeking to understand the complexities of human behavior.
• This discussion underscores the need for self-awareness, compassion, and a willingness to embrace the full spectrum of human experience.
• The exploration of our “fucked up” nature provides a fitting end to the podcast, reminding listeners that we are all flawed individuals navigating a complex and often unpredictable world, but that we have the potential to learn, grow, and evolve.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “This is my number one my number one problem in life. It’s like, I try very hard to to advance as a human being. I try to evolve. I try to fix whatever issues that I have with myself. Whatever errors that I’ve made in my life. I try to never make them more than once. You know? I try to constantly be moving. But if I have an ongoing theme with problems in my life, The number one thing is with obsessions.”
• “There’s a certain amount of your brain that, like, knows, like, you are jerking off a dick, even if it’s your own dick, even if it feels good, there’s still a there’s there’s some torment there. You know?”
• “If you’re trying to evolve and I think you I know you are and I am and all of our friends are. Everyone’s trying to improve as a person. It’s very difficult to fucking figure out how to be a person. It’s very difficult to figure out how manage your energy and know when you’re wrong and know when you’re being upset for no reason. It’s it’s a tricky thing. You know?”
• “You know, it’s like what we’re talking about. We’re talking about 3rd world countries. Like, and and idiots in America even. You you you need a certain amount of un enlightened fools in this world to keep the world operating on the level that it’s operating now.”
• “I guess to please the UFC fans, what did you think about the Rashad rampage recount? Oh, the or is there a lot of UFC fans? There’s a lot of people asking about the shot on rampage. So interesting fight. You know, I think rampage came into that fight too heavy. I I think he was aware of that. Yeah. He was £250. and the weight class is 205. So he had £45 to lose. Not really. You know, 35 really is gonna cut some weight. Cut about £10. But that’s a lot of weight to lose in a training camp. That’s a tremendous amount of weight. So he had to think about that, I think, more than he should have.”