JRE #558 – Honey Honey

This podcast features a lively conversation between Joe Rogan and the duo from Honey Honey, Suzanne Santo and Ben Jaffe. The conversation touches on a range of topics, exploring the world of music, personal experiences, and philosophical musings.

Provocative topics discussed include the use of Mexican Viagra, the ethical concerns surrounding rhino horn use in Eastern medicine, the psychology behind mass shootings, the debate around transgender athletes, and the dangers of conformity in a society that often praises the pursuit of success above all else.

Underlying themes delve into the complexities of human perception, highlighting the differences in how humans and animals experience the world. There’s also an exploration of the role of conscious and subconscious processes in creativity, and the importance of pursuing unconventional experiences to foster new ideas. The conversation also touches on the ever-present duality of human nature, acknowledging the dark impulses that lurk within us while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of seeking enlightenment and compassion.

Major Topics:

1. Mexican Viagra and the Hustle

• Mexican Viagra, a black market alternative to prescribed Viagra, is discussed. It’s a prime example of how people try to circumvent regulations and laws.
• The podcast explores the business tactics involved in selling this product, which often involves Viagra being repackaged and sold as a “super secret supplement” at gas stations.
• The legality of these practices is questioned, with the FDA’s role in regulating these types of products being discussed.
• The conversation highlights the risks associated with buying these unregulated substances, as they often contain unknown ingredients and could potentially pose health hazards.

2. The Rhino Horn Trade and Traditional Medicine

• The use of rhino horns in Eastern medicine is highlighted, with Joe Rogan mentioning seeing a photo of a rhino at the airport with the message “I am not in medicine.” This highlights the ongoing exploitation of rhinos for their horns despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting their medicinal value.
• The conversation delves into the cultural beliefs surrounding rhino horns and their perceived ability to cure illnesses, including cancer, showcasing the power of tradition and faith in influencing health practices.
• The podcast explores the ethical implications of the rhino horn trade, which contributes to the decline of rhino populations, ultimately threatening their survival.
• The discussion touches upon the potential for harmful consequences when individuals rely on unproven remedies, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medicine.

3. The Psychology of Mass Shootings

• The podcast delves into the psychology behind mass shootings, examining the factors that contribute to these tragedies, including isolation, loneliness, and a sense of alienation.
• The conversation highlights the role of a distorted sense of self-worth and superiority in motivating some individuals to commit these acts, emphasizing the devastating consequences of unchecked mental health issues.
• The podcast delves into the question of why mass shooters are predominantly male, sparking a discussion about the societal pressures and expectations that men face, which might contribute to feelings of inadequacy and resentment.
• The conversation touches upon the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help for individuals struggling with mental health issues, emphasizing the need for early intervention and support systems to prevent further tragedies.

4. The Debate Around Transgender Athletes

• The conversation explores the ongoing debate around transgender athletes competing in sports, specifically focusing on the case of a transgender woman who transitioned from male to female and competed in MMA.
• Joe Rogan raises concerns about potential physical advantages that transgender women might have over cisgender women, specifically citing their increased reaction times and bone density. This sparks a discussion about the complexities of balancing inclusivity and fairness in sports.
• The podcast delves into the question of whether transgender women should be allowed to compete in women’s sports, acknowledging the arguments for both sides, while emphasizing the importance of respectful discourse and understanding the complexities of this issue.
• The conversation touches upon the need for scientific research to investigate the potential impact of hormonal changes on athletic performance in transgender athletes, advocating for a data-driven approach to address this evolving issue.

5. The Dangers of Conformity and the Pursuit of Success

• The podcast explores the pressures of conforming to societal expectations and the pursuit of success, particularly in the creative fields of music and comedy.
• The conversation highlights the potential pitfalls of prioritizing external validation and financial success over authentic self-expression, cautioning against the dangers of losing touch with one’s core values and creative drive.
• The podcast delves into the challenges of maintaining creativity and individuality in a world that often rewards conformity and commercial success, encouraging individuals to prioritize their passions and pursue their artistic endeavors without compromising their integrity.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between ambition and authenticity, reminding individuals that true fulfillment comes from pursuing what they love, regardless of external validation or financial rewards.

6. The Power of Unconventional Experiences and the Importance of Curiosity

• The podcast explores the power of unconventional experiences and the importance of fostering curiosity and openness to new ideas.
• Suzanne Santo shares how her decision to pursue music stemmed from a period of personal hardship and loss, emphasizing the role of unexpected events in shaping our creative journey.
• The conversation highlights the value of stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing unconventional experiences, suggesting that these encounters can stimulate our imaginations and broaden our perspectives.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of actively seeking out new perspectives and challenging our preconceived notions, suggesting that this process is essential for personal growth and creative development.

7. The Duality of Human Nature and the Quest for Enlightenment

• The podcast delves into the complex duality of human nature, acknowledging the dark impulses that often reside within us, while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of seeking enlightenment and compassion.
• The conversation explores the primal instincts that drive us towards violence, fear, and destruction, recognizing that these impulses are part of our evolutionary history.
• The podcast highlights the power of inspiration and the transformative potential of music, art, and nature in fostering positive change and cultivating our inherent capacity for empathy and connection.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of seeking balance and embracing both the light and darkness within ourselves, acknowledging that our journey towards enlightenment is a continuous process of growth and self-discovery.

8. The Impact of Technology and Media on Society

• The podcast explores the influence of technology and media on modern society, discussing the potential for both positive and negative impacts on our lives.
• The conversation acknowledges the accessibility and connectivity that technology provides, enabling us to share ideas and connect with people across the globe. However, it also highlights the potential for social media to contribute to isolation, superficiality, and a distorted sense of reality.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and media literacy in navigating the information overload of the digital age, encouraging individuals to question sources, evaluate information, and cultivate their own perspectives.
• The conversation explores the need for a balanced approach to technology, suggesting that we should embrace its potential while being mindful of its limitations and potential pitfalls.

9. The Importance of Personal Connection and Authentic Expression

• The podcast highlights the importance of personal connection and authentic expression, encouraging individuals to embrace their individuality and share their unique perspectives with the world.
• The conversation emphasizes the power of music and art to connect with others on an emotional level, fostering shared experiences and a sense of community.
• The podcast underscores the need for honest and open communication, advocating for dialogues that allow individuals to express their feelings, explore their beliefs, and challenge societal norms.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of cultivating genuine connections and embracing the diversity of human experience, recognizing that these relationships are essential for our wellbeing and collective growth.

10. The Significance of “Doing Your Part” and Making a Positive Impact

• The podcast explores the concept of “doing your part” and making a positive impact on the world, recognizing that individual actions can contribute to a greater good.
• The conversation highlights the power of artists and musicians to inspire others through their creativity, reminding us that authentic expression can spark change and create a ripple effect.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and meaning in our lives, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions and use their unique talents to make a difference.
• The conversation emphasizes that even small acts of kindness and compassion can have a profound impact on those around us, creating a more positive and supportive world.

11. The Role of Nature in Human Well-Being

• The podcast explores the importance of nature in human well-being, highlighting the restorative and grounding effects of spending time in natural environments.
• Joe Rogan shares his experiences in the Alaskan rainforest, emphasizing the humbling and transformative power of nature, reminding us of our place within the larger ecosystem.
• The conversation highlights the importance of connecting with nature for our mental and physical health, advocating for spending time outdoors, engaging in outdoor activities, and appreciating the beauty of the natural world.
• The podcast emphasizes that nature provides a valuable perspective on life, helping us to see beyond our own anxieties and reconnect with something greater than ourselves.

12. The Importance of Humor and Laughter

• The podcast acknowledges the power of humor and laughter in navigating life’s challenges, emphasizing its ability to alleviate stress, provide perspective, and foster a sense of connection.
• The conversation highlights the role of humor in stand-up comedy, acknowledging that laughter can be a powerful tool for addressing sensitive topics and challenging societal norms.
• The podcast emphasizes that humor can serve as a coping mechanism, reminding us that even in difficult situations, finding a moment to laugh can provide a much-needed sense of release and hope.
• The conversation encourages individuals to embrace humor and laughter in their lives, recognizing its vital role in promoting well-being and fostering a sense of community.

13. The Fascination with the Unknown and the Search for Meaning

• The podcast explores the human fascination with the unknown and the search for meaning in a vast and often unpredictable universe.
• The conversation delves into the mysteries of the cosmos, discussing the latest scientific discoveries about black holes, the potential for life on other planets, and the concept of infinity.
• The podcast highlights the humbling experience of contemplating the vastness of space and our place within it, encouraging us to question our assumptions and embrace the unknown.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge, recognizing that exploring the mysteries of the universe can deepen our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

14. The Power of Music and the Importance of Creative Expression

• The podcast celebrates the transformative power of music, recognizing its ability to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect with others on a deep level.
• The conversation highlights the unique bond between Suzanne Santo and Ben Jaffe, showcasing their shared passion for music and their ability to create something beautiful and meaningful together.
• The podcast encourages individuals to embrace their creative impulses, reminding us that music and art can be powerful forces for good, fostering self-expression, emotional connection, and a sense of community.
• The conversation celebrates the power of music to transcend boundaries, reminding us that music has the ability to connect with people from all walks of life, regardless of background, language, or culture.

15. The Importance of Friendship and Supporting One Another

• The podcast showcases the importance of friendship and supporting one another, highlighting the vital role that close relationships play in navigating life’s challenges.
• The conversation between Joe Rogan and the duo from Honey Honey demonstrates the power of mutual respect, understanding, and encouragement in fostering a positive and supportive environment.
• The podcast emphasizes the value of having people in our lives who believe in us, challenge us, and celebrate our successes, reminding us that these relationships are essential for our growth and well-being.
• The conversation celebrates the strength and resilience that comes from having a strong support system, recognizing that we are all stronger when we have each other to rely on.

Memorable Quotes:

• “We’re here to play music and spread love and, you know, be what we are.” – Suzanne Santo emphasizes the core purpose of Honey Honey, reminding listeners that their music is a form of expression and connection.
• “Mental illness is a terrifying thing because I don’t know what’s going on in your brain. I don’t know what’s going on in your brain.” – Joe Rogan acknowledges the complexity of mental illness and the challenges of understanding another person’s experience.
• “We all know it’s fucked up. I think there’s people that are compelled to fix the system. There’s people that are compelled to point out the flaws in the system. There’s people that are compelled to inspire others.” – Joe Rogan acknowledges the diverse responses to societal issues, emphasizing that inspiration is often a key catalyst for change.
• “I think it’s just letting it flow. Too worried about it, and you calculated it. No, you’re not, for Missus Ben.” – Joe Rogan encourages Suzanne Santo to embrace the natural flow of creativity, reminding her to trust her instincts and not overthink the process.
• “I think it’s super important to go through that struggle. I think that if you guys had somehow or another, like, started out together, and then a week later, someone came along and went, holy shit, you guys are fucking great. Well, no. We’ve had we’ve had that, but it didn’t you know what I mean? But that’s what’s so cool about, like, everyone has a different different way to get there. You know? Different vehicle.” – Joe Rogan acknowledges the value of facing challenges and the unique journeys that artists take to achieve their goals.