JRE #754 – Brian Redban

2/2/2016






Podcast Topics: #754 – Brian Redban

This podcast features a conversation between Joe Rogan and comedian Brian Redban, exploring a wide range of topics from personal health and fitness to societal issues and bizarre occurrences. The episode delves into Redban’s experiences with weight loss, his views on various health practices, and his humorous takes on everyday life, all punctuated by Rogan’s signature blend of curiosity and skepticism.

Podcast Topics:

  1. Redban’s Knee Injury: Redban shares his recent knee issue, a recurring problem where his knee pops out of place, leading to a discussion about meniscus tears, ACL surgeries, and the recovery process.
    • Redban details the discomfort of the injury, highlighting how even minor movements can trigger the knee popping out.
    • The conversation delves into potential causes, with Rogan suggesting a meniscus tear.
    • The duo compare different types of knee injuries, emphasizing the severity of an ACL tear versus a meniscus tear.
    • Redban expresses a casual attitude towards the injury, suggesting that at his age, it’s not a major concern as long as he avoids strenuous activity.
  2. Redban’s Weight Loss Journey: Redban reveals his progress on a weight loss journey, emphasizing his commitment to a healthier lifestyle, and the challenges of maintaining a strict diet.
    • Redban shares his impressive weight loss progress in just one month, highlighting the effectiveness of his current regimen.
    • The discussion centers on the mental and physical challenges of eliminating certain foods like bread and cheese.
    • Redban notes the positive impact on his health, particularly the disappearance of acid reflux.
    • The conversation touches on the concept of ancestral diets and how eliminating processed carbohydrates can improve overall health and efficiency.
  3. The Power of Exercise: Rogan and Redban discuss the mental and physical benefits of exercise, highlighting the role it plays in combating depression and promoting overall well-being.
    • The duo share personal experiences of how exercise, particularly cardio, has significantly impacted their moods and energy levels.
    • They cite studies that show exercise can be as effective as antidepressants for some individuals.
    • The conversation emphasizes the importance of incorporating both cardiovascular and strength training into a healthy lifestyle.
    • They suggest that a combination of exercise types helps promote adaptability, relaxation, and a sense of well-being.
  4. The Blue Lava Phenomenon: Rogan brings up a viral image of blue lava, sparking a conversation about its unusual appearance and the science behind it.
    • Redban expresses initial disbelief, joking about a “narnian” origin for the blue lava.
    • The discussion shifts to the Kentucky Blue People, a historical phenomenon that sparked skepticism and curiosity.
    • Rogan brings up the case of a man who turned blue due to drinking colloidal silver, highlighting the potential for permanent health effects from ingesting certain substances.
    • The conversation delves into the scientific explanation of how burning sulfur gas creates a blue flame, leading to a discussion about the photographer who captured the stunning image.
  5. The California Gas Leak: The ongoing natural gas leak in California becomes a topic of discussion, prompting concerns about its environmental impact, safety hazards, and the challenges of containing the leak.
    • Redban expresses concern about the potential for the leak to worsen, leading to a discussion about the risks of explosion or further collapse.
    • The conversation explores the complexities of containing a natural gas leak, emphasizing the technical expertise required to shut it off safely.
    • The duo discuss the impact on nearby residents who have been forced to evacuate, highlighting the challenges of displacement and the uncertainty surrounding their return.
    • Redban raises questions about the accuracy of measurements regarding the volume of methane being released, highlighting the potential for misinformation.
  6. The Importance of Public Lands: Rogan and Redban discuss the importance of preserving public lands, citing Teddy Roosevelt’s legacy in establishing national parks and the significance of protecting natural beauty for future generations.
    • They express concern about the potential for future overdevelopment and pollution, highlighting the importance of safeguarding wilderness areas.
    • The conversation centers on the value of national parks like Yellowstone, emphasizing the unique opportunities they offer for experiencing nature and wildlife.
    • The duo discuss the increasing risk of human-wildlife encounters in these areas, highlighting the importance of safety measures and respecting animal behavior.
    • The conversation touches on the future of public spaces and the challenges of managing access and protecting them from over-utilization.
  7. The Mystery of Wi-Fi and its Impact: Redban ponders whether humans can feel the presence of Wi-Fi, leading to a discussion about the potential for subtle, unexplainable bodily experiences.
    • The conversation explores the possibility of radio waves and satellite signals affecting the body, raising questions about long-term exposure and potential consequences.
    • Redban suggests that cats, known for their sensitive senses, might be the first to detect changes in the environment caused by Wi-Fi.
    • The duo discuss the mysterious phenomenon of cats reacting strongly to cucumbers, suggesting an innate fear of snakes that triggers a strong, instinctive response.
    • The conversation touches on the importance of recognizing the limits of animal intelligence, despite their impressive senses.
  8. The OJ Simpson Trial: Rogan and Redban discuss the OJ Simpson trial, reflecting on its cultural impact and its significance as a defining moment in American history.
    • They note the widespread fascination with the case, highlighting the contrast between public opinion and the trial’s outcome.
    • They discuss the possibility of using modern DNA technology to shed new light on the case, raising questions about the limits of evidence and the potential for miscarriages of justice.
    • The conversation delves into the JonBenĂ©t Ramsey case, comparing it to the Simpson trial and highlighting the difficulties of obtaining conclusive evidence.
    • They explore the challenges of preserving and utilizing evidence over time, acknowledging the potential for contamination and the limitations of forensics.
  9. The Suicide Bridge: The conversation turns to a bridge in Pasadena known for its tragic history as a suicide location, prompting a discussion about the societal factors that contribute to suicidal behavior.
    • Redban shares a chilling encounter with a hiker who discovered a deceased woman on the trail near the bridge.
    • The discussion delves into the emotional impact of suicide and the devastating consequences for loved ones.
    • The conversation touches on the importance of mental health resources and the need to address societal factors that contribute to suicidal ideation.
    • Redban expresses concern about the difficulty of cleaning up after suicides, highlighting the physical and emotional toll it takes on responders.
  10. The Dangers of Extreme Sports: Rogan and Redban discuss the allure and inherent risks of extreme sports, using skydiving and high-altitude dining as examples.
    • Redban expresses a strong aversion to heights, showcasing his fear and contrasting it with Rogan’s more adventurous nature.
    • The conversation explores the adrenaline rush associated with extreme activities and the potential for mishaps and serious injuries.
    • Redban shares his thoughts on the dangers of eating while suspended in a glass-bottomed restaurant in the air.
    • The discussion touches on the human fascination with pushing boundaries and the potential for self-destructive behavior.
  11. The Cultural Impact of Joey Diaz: Rogan and Redban discuss the unconventional comedic style and personality of comedian Joey Diaz, highlighting his impact on the comedy scene and his unapologetic approach.
    • They share stories about Diaz’s willingness to experiment with psychedelics, showcasing his adventurous and rebellious spirit.
    • They note Diaz’s unique brand of humor, characterized by its dark and sometimes offensive content.
    • The conversation delves into the complexities of artistic freedom and the blurred lines between comedy and social commentary.
    • Redban expresses admiration for Diaz’s originality, acknowledging his ability to push boundaries and challenge norms.
  12. The Peyote Ceremony: Redban and Rogan delve into the cultural significance and potential risks associated with Peyote ceremonies, a Native American spiritual practice that involves consuming the cactus containing the psychoactive substance mescaline.
    • Redban expresses skepticism about participating in a ceremony with unknown individuals, emphasizing the importance of trust and safety.
    • The discussion explores the potential for negative experiences, including intense psychological effects and unpredictable reactions to the substance.
    • The conversation touches on the history and cultural significance of Peyote in Native American traditions, acknowledging its spiritual and medicinal use.
    • Redban raises questions about the legality and accessibility of Peyote, highlighting the complexities surrounding its use and potential misuse.
  13. The Bill Cosby Trial: Redban and Rogan discuss the legal challenges and societal impact of the Bill Cosby trial, reflecting on the allegations of sexual assault and the complexities of justice and accountability.
    • Redban highlights the controversial nature of the case, pointing out the conflicting perspectives on Cosby’s guilt and the legal procedures involved.
    • The conversation delves into the potential for legal loopholes and the challenges of prosecuting cases that involve past events and allegations of abuse.
    • Redban discusses the social and cultural ramifications of the trial, emphasizing the importance of addressing sexual assault and protecting victims.
    • They acknowledge the difficulty of navigating the complexities of justice, particularly when dealing with powerful figures and historical events.
  14. The Dangers of Blackouts: Redban shares a personal experience of a blackout after consuming alcohol, highlighting the dangers and uncertainty associated with losing consciousness.
    • The conversation explores the potential for risky behavior, such as driving under the influence, during blackouts.
    • Redban discusses the increasing likelihood of blackouts as people age and their tolerance to alcohol decreases.
    • The discussion touches on the responsibility of individuals to monitor their alcohol consumption and avoid situations that could lead to blackouts.
    • Redban emphasizes the importance of staying safe and prioritizing mental and physical well-being.
  15. The Legalization of Marijuana: Redban and Rogan discuss the ongoing debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana, exploring the cultural shift in attitudes, the legal ramifications, and the potential for harm.
    • Redban notes the growing acceptance of marijuana, highlighting the contrast between its legal status and the widespread use.
    • The conversation delves into the increasing prevalence of marijuana DUI charges, highlighting the legal risks associated with driving under the influence.
    • Redban and Rogan discuss the different types of impairment caused by marijuana compared to alcohol, acknowledging the potential for judgment errors and anxiety.
    • The discussion touches on the need for responsible consumption and the importance of education regarding the effects of marijuana.
  16. The Rise of Autism: The conversation shifts to the increasing prevalence of autism, prompting a discussion about the potential causes, the complexities of diagnosis, and the societal impact.
    • Redban discusses the potential for environmental factors, such as electromagnetic radiation, contributing to autism.
    • The conversation delves into the debate surrounding the role of genetics, particularly the increased risk for children of older parents.
    • Redban explores the challenges of diagnosing autism and the potential for overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis.
    • The discussion touches on the importance of understanding and supporting individuals with autism, promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
  17. The Allure of the “Crazy Girl”: Rogan and Redban engage in a lighthearted discussion about the popular trope of “crazy girls” and their perceived allure, referencing the movie “Dirty Dancing” as an example.
    • Redban jokes about the connection between perceived craziness and sexual desirability, referencing the “psychotic vs. erotic” concept.
    • The discussion playfully delves into the appeal of dangerous and unconventional personalities, referencing Patrick Swayze’s character in “Dirty Dancing.”
    • Redban and Rogan acknowledge the cultural fascination with rebellious and independent characters, often portrayed in movies and media.
    • The conversation highlights the blurring lines between perception and reality, often shaping how individuals are viewed and perceived.
  18. The Clitoris and Female Anatomy: Redban references a personal experience with a woman’s clitoris, sparking a conversation about female anatomy and the complexities of sexual experience.
    • Redban’s description of the clitoris as a “pop-out” organ leads to a humorous exploration of its structure and function.
    • The conversation delves into the potential for anatomical variations and how these can affect sexual experience.
    • Redban and Rogan discuss the challenges of navigating sexual intimacy and the importance of open communication.
    • The conversation touches on the cultural stigma surrounding female sexuality and the need to de-stigmatize and educate.
  19. The Impossibility of Getting It Up: Redban and Rogan engage in a humorous and somewhat raunchy discussion about the potential for sexual dysfunction in the face of impending doom, imagining a scenario where an asteroid is about to hit Earth.
    • The discussion explores the potential for anxiety and fear to impede sexual arousal.
    • Redban and Rogan engage in a playful and suggestive conversation about the different ways individuals might react to the end of the world.
    • The conversation touches on the human desire for connection and intimacy, even in the face of imminent death.
    • Redban and Rogan use humor to explore the absurdity of human behavior in extreme situations.
  20. The Power of the “Heat Scent”: Redban and Rogan discuss the concept of a “heat scent” – a certain type of woman who is known for being sexually attractive and desirable.
    • Redban references a specific woman, “Miss Parker,” who is known for her stunning figure, highlighting the power of physical attributes in attracting attention.
    • The conversation explores the concept of sexual desirability and how it is influenced by both physical appearance and social perception.
    • Redban and Rogan engage in a playful and slightly judgmental discussion about the “heat scent” and the social dynamics that surround it.
    • The conversation touches on the human fascination with beauty and the potential for objectification.
  21. The Future of Porn: Redban and Rogan discuss the future of pornography, exploring the potential for virtual reality (VR) technology to revolutionize the industry.
    • They debate whether VR can truly “save” porn, acknowledging the ongoing evolution of the industry and the changing consumer preferences.
    • The discussion focuses on the monetization of VR porn, highlighting the potential for both creators and consumers to benefit financially.
    • They explore the potential for VR porn to become more personalized and interactive, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.
    • Redban and Rogan acknowledge the evolving social attitudes towards pornography, suggesting a growing acceptance and integration into mainstream culture.
  22. The Threat of iPhone Hacks: Redban discusses the vulnerability of iPhones to hacking, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal information and safeguarding privacy.
    • Redban shares a personal anecdote about attempting to use his fingerprint to unlock a friend’s phone, highlighting the potential for security breaches.
    • The conversation delves into the increasing sophistication of hacking techniques and the potential for accessing sensitive data.
    • Redban discusses the implications of government surveillance and the potential for tracking individuals’ movements.
    • The discussion touches on the importance of cybersecurity and the need to be vigilant about protecting personal information in the digital age.
  23. The Impact of Workplace Drug Testing: Redban and Rogan discuss the prevalence of drug testing in the workplace, highlighting the potential for discrimination and the lack of scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness.
    • Redban expresses concern about the impact of drug testing on employees who enjoy recreational marijuana use, highlighting the potential for job loss.
    • The conversation explores the inconsistency of drug testing, particularly with regards to the long-term effects of marijuana and the lack of scientific support.
    • Redban and Rogan discuss the value of judging employees based on their performance rather than their personal choices outside of work.
    • The conversation touches on the changing societal attitudes towards drug use and the potential for policy reform.
  24. The Power of Narcos: Redban expresses his fascination with the Netflix series “Narcos,” highlighting its realistic portrayal of the life and crimes of Pablo Escobar.
    • Redban shares his appreciation for the show’s production quality, emphasizing the immersive storytelling and the attention to detail.
    • The conversation delves into the shocking reality of Escobar’s power and influence, highlighting the brutality of the drug trade.
    • Redban discusses the transformation of Colombia since the downfall of the Medellin cartel, emphasizing the country’s recovery and resilience.
    • The discussion touches on the enduring fascination with criminal figures and the complex dynamics of power and violence in the world.
  25. The Prevalence of Drug Trafficking: Redban and Rogan discuss the ongoing problem of drug trafficking, highlighting the ingenuity of smugglers and the challenges of combating it.
    • Redban shares a news article about drones being used to smuggle drugs across the U.S.-Mexico border and into prisons, emphasizing the adaptability of traffickers.
    • The conversation explores the international scope of drug trafficking and the economic incentives driving the illicit trade.
    • Redban and Rogan discuss the societal impact of drug trafficking, highlighting the risks of addiction, violence, and corruption.
    • The discussion touches on the challenges of law enforcement and the need for global cooperation to address the problem.
  26. The Comedy Store and Hollywood Icons: The conversation concludes with a discussion about the Comedy Store, a legendary Los Angeles comedy club, and the lasting influence of Hollywood icons, referencing Patrick Swayze and the movie “Roadhouse.”
    • Redban and Rogan discuss the history of the Comedy Store and its role in shaping the comedy scene.
    • They express appreciation for Patrick Swayze’s acting career, highlighting the cultural impact of his films, particularly “Roadhouse.”
    • Redban and Rogan discuss the dangers of smoking cigarettes, referencing Swayze’s untimely death from lung cancer.
    • The conversation touches on the enduring legacy of Hollywood stars and the cultural significance of their work.
  27. The Evolution of MMA and Virtual Reality: Redban and Rogan speculate about the future of mixed martial arts (MMA), suggesting the potential for virtual reality to transform the sport.
    • Redban and Rogan imagine a virtual reality MMA competition where fighters battle in a simulated environment.
    • The conversation explores the potential for more realistic and immersive combat experiences in a virtual reality setting.
    • They discuss the possibility of integrating weapons and other elements into virtual reality MMA, creating a more dynamic and unpredictable fight experience.
    • Redban and Rogan acknowledge the potential for virtual reality to change the way we experience sports and entertainment.
  28. The Future of Technology: Redban and Rogan discuss the potential for future technological advancements, exploring the possibilities of consciousness uploading, artificial intelligence, and the impact on society.
    • Redban and Rogan speculate about the potential for downloading and replicating consciousness, highlighting the ethical and social implications.
    • The discussion touches on the potential for artificial intelligence to surpass human intelligence, creating a new era of technological dominance.
    • Redban and Rogan express concern about the potential for technological advancements to be misused, highlighting the importance of responsible development.
    • The conversation concludes with a reflection on the rapid pace of technological innovation and the unknown future it holds.

5 Memorable Quotes:

  1. “It’s like a a little tiny penis that’s inside the woman’s vagina, and I don’t know why it’s there.”
  2. “You’re only 18. Okay? There’s plenty of years coming. Don’t get so crazy about nostalgia.”
  3. “You’re driving bitch. Relax.”
  4. “The whole thing is nuts, man. Yeah. It says they tried using mud, but they tried doing the concrete. They tried covering it up.”
  5. “We’re gonna be able to fix everything within, like, another how many let me make a guess again. It’s fucking totally unqualified guesses.”