JRE #759 – Cameron Hanes

2/15/2016

Joe Rogan Podcast: #759 – Cameron Hanes

Cameron Hanes, a bowhunting athlete, wildlife conservationist, and ultramarathon runner, joins Joe Rogan to discuss the controversial world of hunting and conservation. The episode explores the conflict between those who believe in self-sufficiency and ethical hunting and those who oppose animal harvesting altogether. The podcast delves into the ethical considerations of hunting, the importance of population control, the role of hunters in conservation efforts, and the cultural disconnect between urban dwellers and those who live in harmony with nature.

1. The “Filthy Skills” Controversy:
   • Hanes receives hate mail and online criticism for his hunting skills, highlighting the polarizing nature of the issue.
   • The episode uses the “Filthy Skills” shirt as a springboard to explore the disconnect between those who hunt and those who view hunting as unethical.
   • Hanes emphasizes the importance of responsible hunting and its role in conservation, challenging the misconception that hunters are solely driven by a desire to kill.
   • The episode highlights the hypocrisy of critics who consume animal products while condemning hunting, arguing that everyone is responsible for the death of animals in various ways.
2. The Ethics of Hunting:
   • Hanes passionately defends the ethics of hunting, emphasizing the importance of responsible practices and the role of hunters in wildlife management.
   • The episode argues that hunting can be a means of population control, preventing overgrazing and ensuring the health of ecosystems.
   • Hanes discusses the importance of understanding carrying capacity and the need for humans to play a role in maintaining balance in the natural world.
   • He contends that hunting can be a more humane way to harvest meat than factory farming, which often involves the suffering of animals.
3. The Importance of Conservation:
   • Hanes highlights the financial contributions of hunters to conservation efforts, emphasizing the role of hunting licenses and tag auctions in funding habitat restoration and wildlife management.
   • The podcast emphasizes the vital role of hunters in providing data for wildlife biologists, ensuring the sustainability of populations through responsible harvest.
   • Hanes criticizes the misinformation and lack of understanding surrounding hunting practices, particularly the misconceptions about population control and the role of hunters in conservation.
   • The episode showcases the impact of hunters in repopulating areas with healthy populations of Elk, demonstrating the positive contributions of responsible hunting practices.
4. The Urban-Rural Divide:
   • The episode explores the disconnect between urban dwellers and those who live in close proximity to nature, highlighting the different perspectives on hunting and the natural world.
   • Hanes argues that those who criticize hunting often have a romanticized and unrealistic view of the wild, failing to understand the harsh realities of survival in nature.
   • He emphasizes the need for a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the role of humans in maintaining balance.
   • Hanes suggests that engaging in outdoor activities like hunting or hiking can foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world and challenge misconceptions about hunting.
5. The Power of Predator Mentality:
   • Hanes discusses the importance of the predator mentality in both hunting and everyday life, highlighting the mental and physical preparedness required for success.
   • The episode emphasizes the importance of discipline, focus, and physical fitness in achieving goals, both in the pursuit of game and in overcoming challenges in everyday life.
   • Hanes highlights the transformative power of challenging oneself and embracing difficult tasks, arguing that it builds character and resilience.
   • He emphasizes the importance of embracing the discomfort and pushing oneself beyond perceived limitations, a philosophy that transcends the world of hunting.
6. The Importance of Community:
   • Hanes highlights the importance of community and the role of inspiration in achieving goals, both in the realm of hunting and in everyday life.
   • The episode discusses the power of positive influence and the importance of surrounding oneself with people who share a similar mindset and drive for accomplishment.
   • Hanes argues that social media can be a powerful tool for inspiring others, showcasing the positive impact of sharing one’s journey and experiences.
   • He emphasizes the importance of choosing to be a force for good in the world, inspiring others to embrace challenges and achieve their own goals.
7. The Loss of Roy:
   • The episode features a deeply moving tribute to Roy, Hanes’ close friend and hunting companion, who tragically died during a sheep hunting trip.
   • The podcast explores the profound impact of shared experiences in the wilderness and the deep bonds that can form between individuals who challenge themselves together.
   • Hanes discusses the importance of embracing risk and the unforgiving nature of the wild, acknowledging the potential for tragedy while emphasizing the value of pursuing one’s passions.
   • The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing relationships and pursuing one’s dreams with unwavering passion.
8. The Importance of Physical and Mental Toughness:
   • Hanes emphasizes the importance of physical and mental toughness in both hunting and in life, showcasing his own rigorous training regime and the demanding nature of ultramarathons.
   • The episode explores the importance of pushing oneself beyond perceived limitations, embracing the discomfort and striving for constant improvement.
   • Hanes challenges the notion that moderation is always the best approach, arguing that pushing oneself to the limit can be a source of profound satisfaction and personal growth.
   • The podcast encourages listeners to embrace challenges and strive for excellence in their own lives, regardless of the specific pursuit.
9. The Misconceptions of Hunting:
   • Hanes challenges the common misconceptions surrounding hunting, debunking the notion that hunters are solely motivated by a desire to kill and emphasizing their role in conservation.
   • He addresses the argument that hunting is unnecessary in modern society, highlighting the ethical and environmental advantages of hunting over factory farming.
   • Hanes argues that hunting can be a more humane way to harvest meat than traditional agriculture, emphasizing the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
   • The episode encourages listeners to engage in critical thinking and challenge preconceived notions about hunting, urging them to seek out information from diverse perspectives.
10. The Power of Archery:
    • Hanes explores the unique challenges and rewards of bowhunting, highlighting the mental discipline and physical precision required.
    • The podcast discusses the meditative nature of archery and the intense focus required to make a successful shot.
    • Hanes contrasts the experience of bowhunting with rifle hunting, emphasizing the greater challenge and sense of accomplishment associated with archery.
    • The episode encourages listeners to explore the benefits of archery as a form of meditation, physical exercise, and mental discipline.
11. The Future of Hunting:
    • The podcast touches on the evolving landscape of hunting, highlighting the increasing importance of social media and the internet in promoting responsible hunting practices and conservation efforts.
    • Hanes expresses hope that through platforms like podcasts and social media, more people will gain a deeper understanding of hunting and its role in conservation.
    • He emphasizes the importance of challenging stereotypes and promoting a more nuanced understanding of hunting, encouraging open dialogue and respectful discourse.
    • The episode expresses optimism about the future of hunting, believing that through education and increased awareness, hunting can continue to play a vital role in conservation and the sustainable management of wildlife.
12. The Bigfoot 200 Ultramarathon:
    • Hanes reveals his ambitious plan to run the Bigfoot 200 ultramarathon, a grueling 200-mile race through the Cascade Mountains.
    • The episode highlights Hanes’ unwavering drive to push himself beyond perceived limitations and achieve ambitious goals.
    • The podcast discusses the physical and mental challenges of ultramarathons, emphasizing the importance of discipline, resilience, and mental fortitude.
    • Hanes’ commitment to the Bigfoot 200 further exemplifies his philosophy of embracing challenges and striving for excellence, inspiring listeners to push themselves to new heights.
13. The Importance of Action and Inspiration:
    • The podcast concludes with a powerful message about the importance of action and inspiration, encouraging listeners to make a positive difference in the world.
    • Hanes emphasizes that even small acts of kindness and positive influence can have a significant impact on others.
    • He highlights the power of social media to inspire and connect people, urging listeners to use their platforms for good.
    • The episode serves as a call to action, encouraging listeners to embrace their passions, push themselves beyond perceived limitations, and inspire others to live fulfilling and impactful lives.

5 Memorable Quotes

• “If you have to justify it, maybe there’s something wrong.” – This quote captures the essence of Hanes’ argument that those who practice responsible hunting don’t need to apologize for their choices.
• “Nobody wants to eliminate wolves, but throughout human history, people have had a problem with wolves. And there’s a reason for that.” – Hanes challenges the romanticized view of wolves, acknowledging their role as apex predators and the need for population control.
• “You don’t have to do it, but don’t condemn it.” – Hanes argues that those who don’t hunt shouldn’t condemn those who do, promoting tolerance and understanding between different viewpoints.
• “The pull towards weakness is strong because it’s so easy to do. It’s so easy to quit.” – This quote highlights Hanes’ philosophy of embracing challenges and pushing oneself beyond perceived limitations.
• “I’ve done so many things because I sucked at all of them.” – This humorous yet insightful statement underscores the importance of failure and the lessons learned from setbacks in achieving success.