JRE #364 – Tom Rhodes

This episode of the Joe Rogan podcast features Tom Rhodes, an American stand-up comedian, actor, and TV host. The episode explores a wide range of topics, from stand-up comedy and travel to cultural differences and the nature of reality itself. Rogan and Rhodes delve into thought-provoking discussions about mental health, societal issues, and even the absurdities of the internet.

1. Stand-Up Comedy and the Road Game

   • Tom Rhodes describes his nomadic lifestyle as a stand-up comedian, constantly traveling and performing in different cities and countries.
   • He shares his experiences in New Zealand, highlighting the country’s unique culture, extreme sports scene, and the iconic Hobbit houses.
   • Rhodes emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in stand-up comedy, citing his extensive touring schedule.
   • He expresses his passion for creating comedy and sharing his experiences with audiences, emphasizing his commitment to the art form.

2. The Nature of Violence and Desensitization

   • Rogan and Rhodes discuss the potential impact of violent media, including movies and video games, on individuals’ behavior and mental health.
   • They debate whether exposure to violence can desensitize people, making them more likely to engage in violent acts.
   • The conversation explores the role of mental health issues and personal experiences in contributing to violent behavior.
   • They argue that addressing the root causes of violence, such as mental health and societal issues, is crucial rather than focusing solely on violent media.

3. The Ocean: A Wild and Uncontrolled Realm

   • Rhodes and Rogan discuss the fascinating and terrifying aspects of the ocean, highlighting the constant struggle for survival in its depths.
   • They compare the ocean’s unpredictable nature to the human world, suggesting that our ability to control and build structures has allowed us to progress.
   • The conversation explores the concept of an “intellectually superior species” controlling the food chain and shaping civilization.
   • They ponder the possibility of humans eventually needing to live beneath the ocean due to environmental issues, suggesting a potential future where technology and survival merge.

4. The Lottery and the Illusion of Wealth

   • Rogan and Rhodes critique the lottery system, highlighting its exploitation of people’s desire for quick wealth.
   • They discuss the deceptive promises often made by governments about lottery funds being used for education, revealing the reality of financial mismanagement.
   • The conversation explores the potential negative consequences of winning the lottery, including attracting con artists and being overwhelmed by financial burdens.
   • They argue that the lottery is a form of gambling that preys on the vulnerable, perpetuating an illusion of easy wealth and neglecting real societal issues.

5. The Dalai Lama, Happiness, and the Absurdity of Figureheads

   • Rhodes shares a humorous and personal anecdote about missing a speech by the Dalai Lama on happiness due to a night of partying with lesbian strippers.
   • He uses this story to critique the concept of a single figurehead representing happiness, suggesting that true happiness is found in personal experiences and relationships.
   • The conversation explores the absurdity of seeking happiness through external sources and the importance of self-discovery and individual experiences.
   • They playfully discuss the Dalai Lama’s celibacy and his potential interactions with other famous figures like Richard Gere and Sharon Stone, highlighting the disconnect between spiritual leaders and everyday life.

6. The Evolution of Sex and Gender Norms

   • Rhodes and Rogan discuss the changing attitudes towards sex and gender roles, particularly comparing American and European cultures.
   • They explore the concept of slut-shaming and the double standards often applied to women compared to men regarding their sexual behavior.
   • They argue for greater acceptance and understanding of individual choices and behaviors, emphasizing the need to challenge societal norms and expectations.
   • The conversation touches on the debate surrounding legalized prostitution and its potential impact on crime rates, referencing the unique situation in Amsterdam.

7. The Internet: A Double-Edged Sword of Information and Inequality

   • Rogan and Rhodes discuss the impact of the internet on society, highlighting both its potential for equality and the growing wealth gap.
   • They explore the increasing transparency of financial information and the potential for this to challenge the power of the 1%.
   • They ponder the future of money and the possibility of a more equitable system, questioning the reliance on intangible assets and the vulnerability of digital information.
   • The conversation touches on the concept of a “one-world government” and the potential for internet voting to create a more balanced and accountable system.

8. The Stock Market: A Chaotic and Unpredictable System

   • Rogan and Rhodes express their skepticism towards the stock market, highlighting its complexity and perceived lack of transparency.
   • They question the rationale behind the system, comparing it to gambling and questioning its reliance on confidence and manipulation.
   • The conversation delves into the potential for fraud and manipulation within the stock market, referencing Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme.
   • They argue for a more transparent and understandable financial system, emphasizing the need for accountability and fairness.

9. The Allure of the Material World and the Search for Meaning

   • Rhodes shares his perspective on the importance of managing material possessions and avoiding excessive accumulation.
   • He discusses his own minimalist lifestyle as a traveler, emphasizing the freedom and simplicity it offers.
   • The conversation explores the potential for technology to enhance or disrupt the way we create and share art and information, referencing the use of hard drives and the cloud.
   • They ponder the durability of various mediums for preserving information, from ancient scrolls to modern digital formats, highlighting the constant evolution of technology and our relationship with it.

10. The Power of Storytelling and the Importance of Wacky Experiences

    • Rogan and Rhodes discuss the power of storytelling in comedy, emphasizing the value of sharing personal experiences and wacky anecdotes.
    • They explore the concept of “this is not happening,” a comedic format that focuses on sharing unconventional and unbelievable stories.
    • The conversation highlights the importance of authentic storytelling and the ability to connect with audiences through relatable and humorous experiences.
    • They emphasize the importance of personal connection and the role of comedy in breaking down barriers and fostering understanding.

11. The Absurdity of Censorship and the Importance of Free Expression

    • Rogan and Rhodes discuss the absurdity of censorship in comedy, particularly in relation to religious and cultural sensitivities.
    • They argue that comedy thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging norms, and that censorship stifles creativity and freedom of expression.
    • They reference the censorship of comedians in Israel, highlighting the hypocrisy of expecting them to be “squeaky clean” while living in a region with high levels of conflict.
    • The conversation emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and the ability to laugh at ourselves and our cultural differences.

12. The Legacy of Jerry Seinfeld and the Nature of Comedy

    • Rhodes shares a personal anecdote about meeting Jerry Seinfeld and encountering what he perceived as a rude and condescending attitude.
    • He discusses Seinfeld’s unique style of observational comedy, emphasizing its simplicity and lack of depth.
    • The conversation explores the complexities of the comedy world, including the potential for ego clashes and the importance of camaraderie among comedians.
    • They argue that while some comedians may be driven by ego and self-promotion, others prioritize the art form and the shared experience of making people laugh.

13. The Double Standard of Gender and Physical Advantages

    • Rogan and Rhodes discuss the growing debate surrounding transgender athletes competing in sports, highlighting the potential for physical advantages based on genetics and hormonal differences.
    • They explore the complexities of gender identity and the challenges of finding a balance between inclusivity and fairness in athletic competition.
    • They acknowledge the undeniable physical differences between men and women, citing the advantages in bone structure, testosterone levels, and reaction time.
    • They argue for a nuanced approach that respects individuals’ choices and recognizes the limitations of imposing strict gender boundaries in athletic competitions.

14. The Power of Nature and the Discomfort of Canned Hunts

    • Rhodes and Rogan discuss the ethical and emotional implications of canned hunts, particularly the practice of hunting lions raised in captivity.
    • They critique the practice as a form of exploitation, arguing that it undermines the true spirit of hunting and the respect for wildlife.
    • The conversation explores the role of human fascination with power and dominance, suggesting that canned hunts cater to the weakest aspects of human nature.
    • They emphasize the importance of understanding the natural world and respecting the role of predators in maintaining ecological balance, arguing that responsible wildlife management is crucial.

15. The Rise of Veganism and the Complexities of Diet

    • Rogan and Rhodes discuss the growing popularity of veganism and the arguments surrounding animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
    • They debate the practicality of a purely vegan diet, acknowledging the potential nutritional deficiencies and the challenges of managing animal populations.
    • They express their personal preferences for certain foods, including bacon, and discuss the role of cultural influences and personal choices in shaping dietary habits.
    • The conversation highlights the complexities of food consumption and the need to balance individual preferences with ethical considerations and environmental impact.

16. The Power of the Podcast and the Future of Media

    • Rogan and Rhodes discuss the increasing popularity of podcasts as a platform for sharing ideas, stories, and experiences.
    • They explore the accessibility of podcasting and its potential for democratizing media, allowing individuals to create and share content independently.
    • They highlight the importance of personal connection and the potential for podcasts to foster intimate and engaging conversations between hosts and listeners.
    • The conversation suggests that podcasts are a significant force in shaping how we consume and engage with media in the digital age, offering a more intimate and personal experience compared to traditional broadcasting.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “You know, I’m living the life I dreamed of, man. And I just I just fell in love with a new country.”
• “I think naturally we’re just a little fucked up in chimpanzee like.”
• “The idea of concentrating on that as a cause, it’s not a cause. This causes you get a mental health issue.”
• “You need to have nothing? What what where’s the value? Like, where is this? You can’t replace them.”
• “I think you should be able to do whatever the fuck you want.”