JRE #653 – Natasha Leggero

This podcast features a casual and insightful conversation between Joe Rogan and comedian Natasha Leggero, covering a wide range of topics from personal experiences to social commentary. Leggero’s sharp wit and candid perspective bring a unique energy to the discussion, making for an engaging and thought-provoking listen.

Major Topics

1. Yoga as an Ordeal: Leggero humorously portrays the intense and sometimes uncomfortable experience of yoga, contrasting the perception of casual stretching with the reality of rigorous physical and mental exertion. She highlights the pressure and potential for injury, particularly in the case of “psychos” who attend 5 AM classes.
2. Sexual Assault in the Context of Spiritual Leadership: Leggero dives into a discussion about the prevalence of sexual assault allegations against spiritual leaders, specifically mentioning the case of B. C. Childrey. She explores the complexities of consent and power dynamics, questioning how such a high number of accusations can arise within a supposedly ethical environment.
3. The Power Dynamic of Sex and Violence: Leggero tackles the controversial topic of sex as a weapon, comparing male and female perspectives on dominance and aggression. She argues that the physical strength of men coupled with the penetrative nature of sex can create a power imbalance that, in certain cases, can be interpreted as violence.
4. Exploring the Spectrum of Sexual Appetites: Leggero delves into the diverse range of sexual preferences, acknowledging the existence of both “aggressive lesbians” and individuals who enjoy bondage and masochism. She uses her personal experiences and anecdotes to illustrate the variety of desires and fetishes, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual preferences and boundaries.
5. The Dangers of “Choking” in Relationships: Leggero explores the potential for a seemingly harmless sexual practice like choking to become a source of fear and discomfort in a relationship. She uses the example of dating a partner who enjoys choking to illustrate how past experiences can create anxiety and mistrust, even when the practice is consensual.
6. The Paradox of John Gomeshi’s Alleged Behavior: Leggero discusses the accusations against John Gomeshi, a prominent feminist advocate who was allegedly involved in acts of violence against women. She highlights the hypocrisy and complexity of human nature, where seemingly righteous individuals can engage in morally reprehensible acts.
7. The Legacy of Jimi Hendrix and the Conspiracy of His Death: Leggero delves into a conspiracy theory surrounding the death of Jimi Hendrix, questioning whether he was murdered by his manager due to a potential financial motive. She explores the power dynamics within the music industry, emphasizing the potential for exploitation and violence when massive amounts of money are at stake.
8. Exploring the Concept of Evil: Leggero and Rogan engage in a philosophical discussion about the nature of evil, using examples like Tony Soprano and real-life dictators to illustrate the motivations behind heinous acts. They explore the complexities of human nature, questioning whether individuals are inherently evil or if they are shaped by their circumstances and choices.
9. The Role of Childhood in Imagination and Fantasy: Leggero discusses her own childhood experience, where she took on a “mom” role at a young age, potentially limiting her ability to engage with fantasy and make-believe. She explores the connection between childhood experiences and adult preferences, suggesting that her upbringing might have led to her preference for grounded reality over fantasy.
10. The Impact of Criticism and its Role in Driving Success: Leggero reflects on how negative feedback from her art teacher, while potentially harsh, ultimately pushed her to strive for excellence. She acknowledges that this approach might not work for everyone, but it highlights the complex relationship between criticism and personal motivation.
11. The Challenges of Second-Generation Success: Leggero and Rogan explore the challenges faced by children of successful parents. While such children may benefit from privilege and opportunities, they might also struggle with the pressure of expectations and the feeling of not having “earned” their success.
12. The Self-Obsessed Nature of Celebrities: Leggero and Rogan discuss the tendency for some actors and singers to be consumed by their own fame and careers, often at the expense of their personal lives and family relationships. They acknowledge the demanding nature of such careers, but highlight the potential for neglecting personal responsibilities in pursuit of fame.
13. The Importance of Communication in Family Relationships: Leggero emphasizes the importance of open communication within families, particularly for blended families where stepparents and children must navigate complex dynamics. She uses her own experience with her stepdaughter as an example, highlighting the significance of building healthy relationships with children.
14. The Unique Connection between Fathers and Daughters: Leggero discusses the special bond between fathers and daughters, emphasizing the educational value of raising daughters and the importance of understanding the female perspective. She uses her own journey to illustrate how raising daughters can lead to greater empathy and understanding of women.
15. The Shifting Priorities of Parenthood: Leggero and Rogan explore the profound shift in priorities that occurs with the arrival of children, noting the immense love and dedication parents experience. They discuss how this love can sometimes overshadow even the deepest love for pets, highlighting the transformative nature of parenthood.
16. The Evolving Nature of Childhood and the Impact of Technology: Leggero and Rogan reflect on the differences between their childhoods and the experiences of today’s youth, particularly in relation to technology. They acknowledge how the internet and social media have profoundly shaped the world for younger generations, influencing their access to information and their social interactions.
17. The Anti-Technology Movement and the Search for Authenticity: Leggero explores the emerging anti-technology movement, predicting a potential resurgence of “hippie” values focused on human connection and authenticity. She highlights the desire for unplugged experiences and real-world interaction amidst the pervasiveness of technology.
18. The Unstoppable Force of Human Innovation: Leggero expresses her belief in the relentless nature of human innovation, arguing that it is an unstoppable force, driven by an inherent desire to understand and improve the world. She acknowledges the potential for technological advancements to change society, but emphasizes the positive aspects of human ingenuity.
19. The Influence of Money in Politics and the Corporate Lobby: Leggero and Rogan discuss the corrupting influence of money in politics, particularly the role of corporations in funding campaigns and lobbying for favorable legislation. They highlight how the system can be manipulated by wealthy individuals and entities, limiting the ability of ordinary citizens to have a voice in government.
20. The Importance of a Direct Democracy and Online Voting: Leggero proposes online voting as a means of achieving a more direct democracy, where the will of the people is directly reflected in government decisions. She argues that the current system is antiquated and corrupt, and that online voting could empower citizens and hold politicians accountable.
21. The Contradictory Nature of Human Behavior and the Difficulty of Objectivity: Leggero explores the inherent contradictions within human behavior, acknowledging that people can hold conflicting beliefs and engage in morally questionable actions while simultaneously believing they are doing good. She highlights the complexities of human nature and the challenge of maintaining objectivity in a world filled with biases and contradictions.
22. The Need for a Real “Pro-Life” Movement: Leggero proposes a reimagined “pro-life” movement that focuses on supporting and improving the lives of existing individuals, rather than solely focusing on the protection of embryos. She argues that a true pro-life movement would prioritize the well-being of children and families in need, working to create a just and compassionate society.
23. The Rise of the Religious Right and the Power of Organization: Leggero discusses the growing influence of the religious right in American politics, highlighting their ability to mobilize and organize for political gain. She contrasts this with the more passive approach of those who advocate for individual freedom and limited government intervention, suggesting that the lack of organized activism can weaken their political influence.
24. The Search for Personal Philosophy and the Rejection of Rigid Ideologies: Leggero emphasizes the importance of developing personal philosophies and beliefs, rather than blindly adhering to rigid ideologies, particularly religious ones. She suggests that exploring diverse traditions and philosophies can lead to a richer understanding of the world and a more fulfilling personal life.
25. The Absurdity of the Pope Mobile and the Irony of Religious Authority: Leggero humorously critiques the Pope Mobile, highlighting the absurdity of the concept of a bulletproof vehicle for a figure who preaches peace and humility. She uses this to illustrate the contradictions inherent in religious authority and the potential for hypocrisy within institutions.
26. The Thinly Veiled Racism of “Taking America Back”: Leggero deconstructs the rhetoric of “taking America back,” revealing its underlying racist and xenophobic undertones. She highlights the danger of such rhetoric, which can be used to scapegoat and marginalize minorities.
27. The Role of the Internet in Empowering Individual Voices and Spreading Truth: Leggero expresses hope in the transformative potential of the internet, particularly its ability to spread information and empower individuals. She argues that the internet has democratized access to information, making it more difficult for politicians and authorities to control narratives and spread misinformation.
28. The Need for Political Reform and the Future of Democracy: Leggero calls for a fundamental overhaul of the political system, advocating for a more direct democracy and online voting to ensure that the will of the people is truly reflected in government. She believes that such reforms could lead to a more just and equitable society.

4 Point Summaries

1. Yoga as an Ordeal:
   • Yoga is not just casual stretching, it’s a rigorous physical and mental challenge.
   • The pressure and potential for injury can be intense, especially for those seeking out extreme classes.
   • The “psychos” who attend 5 AM classes are a humorous example of the dedication (or obsession) some individuals have with yoga.
   • Leggero’s humorous perspective highlights the contrast between perception and reality when it comes to yoga.
2. Sexual Assault in the Context of Spiritual Leadership:
   • The prevalence of sexual assault allegations against spiritual leaders raises questions about the ethical standards of these institutions.
   • Leggero challenges the notion that spiritual leaders are inherently ethical, emphasizing the complexities of consent and power dynamics.
   • The high number of accusations against B. C. Childrey highlights the potential for abuse within seemingly safe environments.
   • The discussion encourages reflection on the role of power and trust in shaping ethical behavior.
3. The Power Dynamic of Sex and Violence:
   • Leggero provocatively argues that the physical strength of men coupled with the penetrative nature of sex can create a power imbalance.
   • She contrasts this with women’s experiences, suggesting that women are more often receptive than aggressive in sexual encounters.
   • The comparison prompts a discussion on the nuances of consent and the potential for violence in sexual relationships.
   • Leggero’s perspective challenges traditional assumptions about sexual power dynamics.
4. Exploring the Spectrum of Sexual Appetites:
   • Leggero acknowledges the diverse range of sexual desires and fetishes, embracing the spectrum of human sexuality.
   • She highlights the importance of respecting individual preferences and boundaries, acknowledging that sexual desires can be diverse and unexpected.
   • Leggero’s anecdotes and experiences shed light on the wide variety of sexual preferences, promoting open and honest conversations about sexuality.
   • The discussion challenges judgment and encourages understanding of diverse sexual expressions.
5. The Dangers of “Choking” in Relationships:
   • Leggero uses a personal anecdote to illustrate how a seemingly harmless sexual practice like choking can create anxiety and mistrust in a relationship.
   • She emphasizes the importance of considering past experiences and the impact they can have on future relationships, even with consensual practices.
   • The discussion highlights the potential for power dynamics to complicate even seemingly harmless activities in a relationship.
   • Leggero’s candid perspective encourages open communication and careful consideration of boundaries within relationships.
6. The Paradox of John Gomeshi’s Alleged Behavior:
   • Leggero highlights the hypocrisy and complexity of human nature, questioning how individuals can advocate for social justice while engaging in harmful behavior.
   • The case of John Gomeshi, a prominent feminist advocate accused of violence against women, exemplifies the disconnect between public persona and private actions.
   • The discussion provokes thought on the nature of hypocrisy and the challenge of reconciling ideals with reality.
   • Leggero’s commentary encourages reflection on the complexities of social movements and the individuals who lead them.
7. The Legacy of Jimi Hendrix and the Conspiracy of His Death:
   • Leggero explores a conspiracy theory surrounding Jimi Hendrix’s death, suggesting he may have been murdered by his manager for financial gain.
   • The discussion highlights the potential for exploitation and violence within the music industry, particularly when immense wealth is involved.
   • Leggero’s commentary prompts reflection on the power dynamics within the entertainment industry and the potential for corruption.
   • The conversation raises questions about the truth behind Hendrix’s death and the challenges of uncovering hidden motives.
8. Exploring the Concept of Evil:
   • Leggero and Rogan delve into the philosophical question of the nature of evil, examining the motivations behind heinous acts.
   • They explore the complexities of human nature, using examples like Tony Soprano and real-life dictators to illustrate the potential for darkness within individuals.
   • The discussion challenges simplistic notions of good and evil, acknowledging that human behavior is often driven by complex motivations.
   • Leggero and Rogan’s exploration prompts contemplation on the roots of evil and the factors that contribute to human depravity.
9. The Role of Childhood in Imagination and Fantasy:
   • Leggero shares her own experience of assuming a “mom” role at a young age, potentially impacting her ability to engage with fantasy and make-believe.
   • She explores the connection between childhood experiences and adult preferences, suggesting that her upbringing might have shaped her preference for grounded reality.
   • The discussion prompts reflection on the influence of childhood experiences on adult perspectives and preferences.
   • Leggero’s personal story highlights the importance of understanding individual experiences in shaping their worldview.
10. The Impact of Criticism and its Role in Driving Success:
    • Leggero reflects on how harsh criticism from her art teacher, while potentially hurtful, ultimately motivated her to excel.
    • She acknowledges that this approach might not work for everyone, highlighting the complex relationship between criticism and individual motivation.
    • The discussion explores the potential for negative feedback to be a catalyst for growth and success.
    • Leggero’s experience highlights the importance of understanding individual responses to criticism and tailoring feedback accordingly.
11. The Challenges of Second-Generation Success:
    • Leggero and Rogan discuss the challenges faced by children of successful parents, who might struggle with pressure and the feeling of unearned success.
    • They acknowledge the privilege and opportunities that come with a successful family background, but also highlight the potential for internal conflict and a sense of unearned accomplishment.
    • The discussion prompts reflection on the complexities of intergenerational wealth and the impact it can have on individuals’ lives.
    • Leggero and Rogan’s insights encourage empathy for individuals who navigate the challenges of both privilege and expectations.
12. The Self-Obsessed Nature of Celebrities:
    • Leggero and Rogan discuss the tendency for some actors and singers to prioritize their careers over family and personal relationships.
    • They acknowledge the demanding nature of such careers but highlight the potential for neglecting responsibilities and personal growth in pursuit of fame.
    • The discussion prompts reflection on the potential for self-obsession and the impact it can have on individuals and their relationships.
    • Leggero and Rogan’s insights encourage empathy for individuals navigating the challenging world of celebrity and the potential for isolation.
13. The Importance of Communication in Family Relationships:
    • Leggero emphasizes the importance of open communication within families, particularly in blended families where complex dynamics exist.
    • She uses her own experience with her stepdaughter to highlight the significance of building healthy relationships with children, regardless of family structure.
    • The discussion promotes the importance of understanding and respecting individual needs and perspectives within family relationships.
    • Leggero’s insights encourage open communication and empathy as essential components of strong family bonds.
14. The Unique Connection between Fathers and Daughters:
    • Leggero discusses the special bond between fathers and daughters, highlighting the educational value of raising daughters and understanding the female perspective.
    • She shares her own experiences to illustrate how raising daughters can lead to a deeper understanding of women and a greater sense of empathy.
    • The discussion encourages reflection on the unique dynamics between fathers and daughters and the potential for growth and learning.
    • Leggero’s insights highlight the importance of fostering a supportive and understanding relationship between fathers and daughters.
15. The Shifting Priorities of Parenthood:
    • Leggero and Rogan explore the transformative nature of parenthood, acknowledging the profound shift in priorities and the immense love parents experience.
    • They discuss how this love can sometimes overshadow even the strongest bonds with pets, highlighting the overwhelming power of parental love.
    • The conversation encourages reflection on the profound changes that parenthood brings and the depth of parental love.
    • Leggero and Rogan’s insights offer a glimpse into the complex and beautiful world of parenthood.
16. The Evolving Nature of Childhood and the Impact of Technology:
    • Leggero and Rogan contrast their own childhood experiences with those of today’s youth, highlighting the profound impact of technology on young lives.
    • They acknowledge how the internet and social media have changed how children access information, interact socially, and perceive the world.
    • The discussion prompts reflection on the evolving nature of childhood and the challenges and opportunities presented by technology.
    • Leggero and Rogan’s insights encourage understanding of the different realities faced by children in different generations.
17. The Anti-Technology Movement and the Search for Authenticity:
    • Leggero explores the emerging anti-technology movement, predicting a potential resurgence of “hippie” values centered on human connection and authenticity.
    • She highlights the growing desire for unplugged experiences, real-world interaction, and a sense of community amidst the pervasiveness of technology.
    • The discussion prompts reflection on the impact of technology on society and the potential for a counter-cultural movement.
    • Leggero’s insights offer a glimpse into the changing values of society and the potential for a return to more human-centered ways of living.
18. The Unstoppable Force of Human Innovation:
    • Leggero expresses her belief in the unstoppable force of human innovation, driven by an inherent desire to understand and improve the world.
    • She acknowledges the potential for technological advancements to change society but emphasizes the positive aspects of human ingenuity.
    • The discussion encourages optimism about the potential for human progress through innovation.
    • Leggero’s perspective inspires reflection on the power of human creativity and its potential to solve global challenges.
19. The Influence of Money in Politics and the Corporate Lobby:
    • Leggero and Rogan discuss the corrupting influence of money in politics, highlighting the role of corporations in funding campaigns and lobbying for favorable legislation.
    • They acknowledge how the system can be manipulated by wealthy individuals and entities, limiting the ability of ordinary citizens to have a voice in government.
    • The discussion prompts reflection on the role of money in politics and its impact on democratic values.
    • Leggero and Rogan’s insights encourage a critical examination of the influence of corporations on political decisions.
20. The Importance of a Direct Democracy and Online Voting:
    • Leggero proposes online voting as a means of achieving a more direct democracy, where the will of the people is directly reflected in government decisions.
    • She argues that the current system is antiquated and corrupt, and that online voting could empower citizens and hold politicians accountable.
    • The discussion prompts reflection on the potential for technological advancements to enhance democratic processes and empower citizens.
    • Leggero’s insights encourage a reassessment of political systems and the potential for innovation in democratic governance.
21. The Contradictory Nature of Human Behavior and the Difficulty of Objectivity:
    • Leggero explores the inherent contradictions within human behavior, acknowledging that individuals can hold conflicting beliefs and engage in morally questionable actions while believing they are doing good.
    • She highlights the complexities of human nature and the challenge of maintaining objectivity in a world filled with biases and contradictions.
    • The discussion encourages reflection on the complexities of human behavior and the importance of understanding individual motivations.
    • Leggero’s insights challenge simplistic notions of good and evil and promote empathy for the complexity of human experience.
22. The Need for a Real “Pro-Life” Movement:
    • Leggero proposes a reimagined “pro-life” movement that focuses on supporting and improving the lives of existing individuals, rather than solely protecting embryos.
    • She argues that a true pro-life movement would prioritize the well-being of children and families in need, working to create a just and compassionate society.
    • The discussion prompts reflection on the concept of “pro-life” and its potential for broader societal impact.
    • Leggero’s insights encourage a re-evaluation of the “pro-life” movement and its potential to address systemic issues affecting individuals and communities.
23. The Rise of the Religious Right and the Power of Organization:
    • Leggero discusses the growing influence of the religious right in American politics, highlighting their ability to mobilize and organize for political gain.
    • She contrasts this with the more passive approach of those who advocate for individual freedom and limited government intervention, suggesting that the lack of organized activism can weaken their political influence.
    • The discussion encourages reflection on the importance of political organization and activism in shaping societal outcomes.
    • Leggero’s insights highlight the importance of mobilizing and organizing to advocate for individual rights and societal change.
24. The Search for Personal Philosophy and the Rejection of Rigid Ideologies:
    • Leggero emphasizes the importance of developing personal philosophies and beliefs, rather than blindly adhering to rigid ideologies, particularly religious ones.
    • She suggests that exploring diverse traditions and philosophies can lead to a richer understanding of the world and a more fulfilling personal life.
    • The discussion encourages a critical examination of established ideologies and a search for personal truth.
    • Leggero’s insights promote intellectual curiosity and a willingness to question established beliefs.
25. The Absurdity of the Pope Mobile and the Irony of Religious Authority:
    • Leggero humorously critiques the Pope Mobile, highlighting the absurdity of the concept of a bulletproof vehicle for a figure who preaches peace and humility.
    • She uses this to illustrate the contradictions inherent in religious authority and the potential for hypocrisy within institutions.
    • The discussion encourages reflection on the relationship between religious beliefs and actions, and the potential for dissonance between ideals and reality.
    • Leggero’s perspective prompts a critical examination of religious institutions and their role in society.
26. The Thinly Veiled Racism of “Taking America Back”:
    • Leggero deconstructs the rhetoric of “taking America back,” revealing its underlying racist and xenophobic undertones.
    • She highlights the danger of such rhetoric, which can be used to scapegoat and marginalize minorities.
    • The discussion encourages a critical examination of political rhetoric and its potential to promote prejudice and discrimination.
    • Leggero’s insights highlight the importance of recognizing and challenging racist and xenophobic ideologies.
27. The Role of the Internet in Empowering Individual Voices and Spreading Truth:
    • Leggero expresses hope in the transformative potential of the internet, particularly its ability to spread information and empower individuals.
    • She argues that the internet has democratized access to information, making it more difficult for politicians and authorities to control narratives and spread misinformation.
    • The discussion encourages optimism about the potential for the internet to promote transparency and accountability.
    • Leggero’s insights highlight the importance of the internet as a tool for civic engagement and social change.
28. The Need for Political Reform and the Future of Democracy:
    • Leggero calls for a fundamental overhaul of the political system, advocating for a more direct democracy and online voting to ensure that the will of the people is truly reflected in government.
    • She believes that such reforms could lead to a more just and equitable society.
    • The discussion encourages a critical examination of existing political systems and the potential for innovation in democratic governance.
    • Leggero’s insights highlight the importance of civic engagement and political reform in shaping a more just and responsive society.

Memorable Quotes

• “I’m not worried about that at all. Let’s just do this.” – Leggero demonstrates her confidence and defiance in the face of negativity and intimidation.
• “The best karma you can have is being born into a good family.” – Duncan’s insightful observation highlights the impact of privilege and support systems on individual success.
• “I’m not gonna be an early adopter. That’s for sure.” – Leggero expresses her reluctance to embrace cutting-edge technologies, particularly those with potential risks.
• “I think we are giving birth to a new type of life.” – Leggero reflects on the profound impact of technological advancements on humanity and the potential for creating new forms of existence.
• “It’s your choice. It’s like do it for you, but this the yeah.” – Leggero encourages individuals to make their own choices and embrace what resonates with them personally.