7/9/2012
Joe Rogan Experience Podcast: #237 – Tommy Chong
This podcast takes listeners on a wild ride with Tommy Chong, exploring a wide range of topics from the history of cannabis and its use to the absurdity of certain laws and even touches on the dangers of sugar consumption. This candid conversation with Rogan covers everything from conspiracy theories to personal experiences, offering a glimpse into Chong’s unique perspective on life.
- The Rise of Cannabis and Its Continued Legal Battles
- Tommy Chong’s early life and the prevalence of marijuana use in Canada, where it was relatively accepted.
- The passage of the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 and its impact on the use and perception of cannabis.
- Chong’s experiences with law enforcement, including his arrest and imprisonment for selling drug paraphernalia.
- His ongoing fight for cannabis legalization and his belief that it is a powerful medicine that should be readily available.
- The Unpredictability of Fame and the Impacts of Drug Use
- Chong’s personal experience with drug use and his evolution over time, transitioning from recreational use to viewing marijuana as a powerful medicine.
- The changing landscape of cannabis culture and the increased acceptance of its medicinal properties.
- The evolution of the Cheech & Chong brand and how their humor has resonated with audiences for decades.
- Chong’s ongoing advocacy for cannabis and his belief that it has the potential to positively impact society.
- The Role of the DEA and the Question of Drug Laws
- Chong’s criticisms of the DEA and its focus on cannabis enforcement, which he sees as a waste of resources and a violation of individual liberties.
- The DEA’s corruption and alleged involvement in money grabbing through marijuana raids.
- Chong’s argument that legalizing cannabis would benefit society by generating tax revenue and creating a more ethical system of distribution.
- His belief that the continued illegal status of cannabis is driven by greed and a lack of understanding of its potential benefits.
- The Importance of Health and Nutrition
- Chong’s personal health journey, including his diagnosis with prostate cancer and his decision to adopt a plant-based diet.
- His exploration of alternative cancer treatments, including cannabis oil and various supplements.
- Chong’s advocacy for healthy living and his belief in the power of nutrition to prevent and even cure disease.
- He emphasizes the dangers of sugar consumption, highlighting its detrimental impact on health and its role in feeding cancer cells.
- The Absurdity of Certain Laws and the Perils of Societal Norms
- Chong’s experience with the legal system, including his arrest and imprisonment for selling drug paraphernalia, which he sees as a prime example of how the law can be used to oppress and control.
- The hypocrisy of societal norms, particularly the focus on marijuana prohibition while other substances, such as alcohol, are widely accepted.
- The influence of the pharmaceutical industry in promoting certain drugs while suppressing others, such as cannabis.
- Chong’s belief in the need for personal freedom and his frustration with the limitations imposed by outdated laws and societal conventions.
- The Importance of Spirituality and Self-Discovery
- Chong’s experiences in prison, where he found a sense of spirituality and rediscovered his own values.
- His exploration of Native American traditions, including the Sweat Lodge Society, which he found to be a powerful tool for spiritual growth and self-reflection.
- His belief in the importance of mindfulness and self-care, particularly in navigating the challenges of life and dealing with adversity.
- Chong’s journey of personal growth and his understanding that life is a journey of discovery and learning.
- The Nature of Comedy and the Power of Laughter
- Chong’s perspective on comedy and his belief that it is a powerful tool for social change and personal expression.
- His experience with censorship and the constant struggle to push boundaries and challenge societal norms through humor.
- The importance of finding humor in the unexpected and the absurdity of life’s situations.
- Chong’s belief that laughter is a powerful force that can unite people and bring joy to the world.
- The Dangers of Indoctrination and the Power of Individual Thought
- Chong’s critique of Scientology, highlighting its control over members and its potential for manipulation and abuse.
- His belief in the importance of critical thinking and the need to question authority.
- Chong’s emphasis on the power of individual thought and the importance of questioning societal norms.
- His advocacy for a more open and tolerant society, where people are free to think for themselves and express their individuality.
5 Memorable Quotes
- “The pot has not changed. It’s impossible to change it. It’s as strong back then as it was as it is.”
- “You gotta think that there’s plants that we have a symbiotic relationship with. And we know that there’s a long, long relationship the people have to eating cannabis. Yeah. And we know that eating it where it doesn’t even get you high. When you just eat the plant, it doesn’t get you high. is incredibly good for you.”
- “The universe doesn’t want you gotta you gotta get get your shit together, Bitch. Yeah. There’s a right way.”
- “You know, I’ve never heard heroin addicts say that. I’ve never heard cocaine addicts say that. Oh, man. Heroin addicts you ever talked to someone who’s in the middle of the heroin, they just love it.”
- “You know, I met him once he was super nice. And and what’s the guy, the star? Mark Mark Malberg. Yeah. He’s Malberg. — an awesome. He’s awesome.”