JRE #892 – Greg Fitzsimmons

12/28/2016

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience features Greg Fitzsimmons, a stand-up comedian and writer, who also hosts his own podcast “FitzDog Radio.” The conversation covers a wide range of topics from the comedy world to social issues, societal norms, and personal experiences. The humor is raw, often leaning towards the edgy and provocative, but the underlying themes explore a deeper understanding of human behavior and the complexities of our world.

Major Topics

1. The Gender Wage Gap

   1. Fitzsimmons challenges the widely-held statistic that women make 80 cents for every dollar a man makes, arguing that the disparity arises from differing job choices and working hours, not discrimination.
   2. He highlights the tendency for women to take time off for maternity leave and work fewer hours, while men are more likely to pursue high-risk, high-paying jobs.
   3. Fitzsimmons suggests that when women and men are performing the same jobs with similar hours and experience, the wage gap is minimal.
   4. This discussion sparks a conversation about the complexities of measuring and understanding societal inequities, highlighting the need for nuanced analysis.

2. Teenage Boys and Girls

   1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan delve into the contrasting experiences of teenage boys and girls, discussing their differing social dynamics and motivations.
   2. They highlight the boys’ tendency towards sports, humor, and rebellion, while girls often prioritize social circles and academic performance.
   3. This conversation delves into the impact of biological differences and societal expectations on teenage development.
   4. Their observations spark a broader discussion about how gender roles and expectations shape young individuals’ experiences and aspirations.

3. Ron White’s Tequila and Partying

   1. Rogan shares a humorous anecdote about his experience driving Ron White home from the Comedy Store, highlighting White’s penchant for partying and tequila.
   2. The story illustrates White’s personality as a fun-loving, generous individual who enjoys sharing his tequila and good times with others.
   3. It also provides a glimpse into the camaraderie and social dynamics within the comedy world, showing how even big stars can be down-to-earth and relatable.
   4. The anecdote showcases the lighthearted side of the conversation, while hinting at a deeper theme of seeking pleasure and connection in the pursuit of entertainment.

4. Mold and Fungus

   1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the dangers of mold and fungus, sharing personal experiences and anecdotes.
   2. The conversation delves into the potential health risks associated with mold exposure, including allergies and even neurological issues.
   3. They discuss the cost and challenges associated with identifying and remediating mold problems.
   4. This segment underscores the unseen threats present in our environment, highlighting the importance of being aware of potential health hazards and taking preventive measures.

5. Bubba the Love Sponge

   1. Rogan recounts a surreal experience with Bubba the Love Sponge, a shock jock known for his outrageous radio shows.
   2. The story features elements of extreme behavior, including a midget who urinated on a couch, drinking Paps Blue Ribbon at 7 am, and a guest threatening to rob a bank.
   3. Rogan’s experience highlights the extreme, often chaotic nature of morning radio shows and the personalities drawn to this format.
   4. This segment explores the boundaries of humor and entertainment, prompting a discussion about the role of shock value and pushing the limits of acceptable content.

6. Accidental Death and Ethics

   1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan engage in a philosophical discussion about the ethics of covering up an accidental death.
   2. They present a thought-provoking scenario of hitting a homeless person with a car and then having the choice to report it or flee the scene.
   3. The conversation explores the conflicting emotions of guilt, responsibility, and societal expectations in such situations.
   4. This segment delves into the complexities of moral decision-making, prompting reflection on the consequences of our choices and the gray areas of ethical dilemmas.

7. The Moose Video

   1. Rogan shares a viral video of a car hitting a moose, highlighting the animal’s size and the surprising impact of the collision.
   2. The video serves as a reminder of the dangers of encountering wildlife in unexpected situations.
   3. They discuss the behavior of moose and other large animals, emphasizing the potential risks associated with their presence.
   4. This segment offers a humorous and cautionary tale about the unpredictable nature of the natural world, prompting a discussion about respecting wildlife and minimizing human interference.

8. Bear Encounters

   1. Rogan shares his personal experiences with bears, highlighting the surprising frequency of encounters in certain environments.
   2. He differentiates between the behavior of various bear species, emphasizing the more aggressive nature of brown bears and the tendency for black bears to be less threatening.
   3. The discussion explores the fascinating nature of bears and their dietary habits, including their consumption of dead whales.
   4. This segment touches on the theme of human interaction with wildlife, revealing the potential dangers and the importance of understanding different animal behaviors.

9. Hunting and the Nature of Meat

   1. Fitzsimmons discusses his experience hunting elk, describing the process of harvesting and breaking down the animal.
   2. He emphasizes the sobering realization of the transformation from living animal to meat, highlighting the connection between food and its origins.
   3. He anticipates the potential shift towards lab-grown meat and the implications for traditional farming practices.
   4. This segment prompts a discussion about the ethical considerations of meat consumption, questioning traditional practices and exploring future possibilities for sustainable food production.

10. Factory Farming and Ethical Concerns

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan express concern about the practices of factory farming, particularly the treatment of chickens.
    2. They describe the cramped conditions, genetic manipulation, and potential health risks associated with industrial chicken production.
    3. They highlight the contrast with ethical farming practices exemplified by Polyface Farm, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment and sustainable methods.
    4. This segment raises ethical questions about our relationship with animals, encouraging reflection on the impact of consumer choices and the need for alternative food production systems.

11. Tuna and Overfishing

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss a documentary about a sushi chef in Japan, highlighting the practices of aging tuna and the potential consequences of overfishing.
    2. They question the sustainability of fishing practices, considering the time it takes to grow a tuna and the growing demand for seafood.
    3. The discussion explores the interconnectedness of human actions and their impact on the environment, emphasizing the need for responsible resource management.
    4. This segment touches on a larger theme of environmental sustainability and the future of our planet, urging listeners to consider their consumption habits and support eco-friendly practices.

12. Donald Trump and International Relations

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the potential impact of Donald Trump’s presidency on international relations.
    2. They highlight Trump’s early actions, such as taking a phone call from Taiwan, which have angered China and sparked concerns about a potential nuclear build-up.
    3. They discuss the impact of Trump’s words and actions on America’s standing in the world, comparing his approach to that of President Obama regarding Israel.
    4. This segment underscores the complexities of foreign policy and the importance of diplomatic communication, highlighting the potential consequences of impulsive or poorly-considered decisions on a global scale.

13. Israel and Palestine

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, exploring the historical context and the complexities of the situation.
    2. They touch on the sensitivity of the topic, acknowledging the differing perspectives and passionate feelings associated with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
    3. They discuss the ongoing tensions and the potential for an escalation of violence.
    4. This segment provides a brief overview of a complex and multifaceted issue, highlighting the importance of understanding different perspectives and seeking peaceful solutions.

14. Fake News and Social Media

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the rise of fake news and its potential to influence public opinion and sow discord.
    2. They cite an example of a politician falling prey to a fake news story and making inflammatory statements based on misinformation.
    3. The conversation highlights the challenges of discerning truth from falsehood in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and verifying information.
    4. This segment underscores the power of media manipulation and the importance of responsible media consumption in an era of digital overload.

15. Glaciers and the Erasure of Landscapes

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the impact of glaciers on the landscape, contrasting the driftless area of Wisconsin with the flattened terrain created by glacial movement.
    2. They highlight the power of nature to shape the Earth, both in terms of creation and destruction.
    3. The conversation touches on the concept of time and the geological forces that have shaped our planet over millennia.
    4. This segment offers a brief glimpse into the Earth’s history, reminding listeners of the vastness of time and the forces that have shaped our world.

16. Snowstorms and Community

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the challenges of living in areas with harsh winters, highlighting the importance of community and mutual support.
    2. They contrast the experiences of individuals living in areas prone to heavy snowfall with those in more temperate climates, emphasizing the different social dynamics and sense of responsibility.
    3. The discussion highlights the importance of neighborly assistance and cooperation in challenging circumstances, illustrating the strength of human connection in times of need.
    4. This segment underscores the impact of environmental conditions on social structures and the development of community values.

17. The Fragility of Existence

    1. Rogan reflects on the fragility of life, considering the potential impact of a catastrophic event like an asteroid strike.
    2. He emphasizes the fleeting nature of our existence and the importance of appreciating the present moment.
    3. The discussion touches on the theme of existentialism, prompting reflection on the meaning of life and the challenges of mortality.
    4. This segment offers a philosophical interlude, prompting listeners to consider their place in the universe and the importance of living a meaningful life.

18. The Role of the President

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the potential impact of Trump’s presidency, considering his unconventional background and his controversial rhetoric.
    2. They express concern about Trump’s potential to disrupt international relations and erode American democracy.
    3. They question the effectiveness of a single-person presidency in a complex, globalized world, arguing for a more collaborative approach.
    4. This segment offers a critical analysis of current political climate, raising important questions about leadership, power dynamics, and the future of American democracy.

19. The Dangers of Ideology

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the dangers of rigid ideologies, citing the example of Marxism and its consequences in the Soviet Union.
    2. They emphasize the importance of critical thinking and the need to avoid blind adherence to any one ideology, regardless of its purported benefits.
    3. The conversation highlights the potential for ideology to lead to harmful or even catastrophic outcomes.
    4. This segment serves as a cautionary tale, urging listeners to approach ideologies with a healthy skepticism and prioritize individual critical thinking.

20. The Legacy of Christopher Columbus

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the dark side of Christopher Columbus’ legacy, citing a priest’s account of the brutal treatment of Native Americans by European settlers.
    2. They highlight the horrors of colonialism, including enslavement, genocide, and the spread of disease.
    3. The conversation challenges the romanticized portrayal of Columbus and sheds light on the destructive impact of European expansion on indigenous populations.
    4. This segment delves into the complexities of history, encouraging reflection on the consequences of colonialism and the need for a more nuanced understanding of historical events.

21. The Importance of Community

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan contrast the social dynamics of small towns with those of large cities, highlighting the importance of community bonds in rural areas.
    2. They argue that the harsh conditions of life in certain environments necessitate a greater sense of mutual support and interdependence.
    3. They highlight the loss of community in modern society, particularly in urban areas, where anonymity and individualism prevail.
    4. This segment underscores the value of human connection and the importance of fostering strong communities in a world increasingly characterized by isolation and detachment.

22. The Evolution of Humanity

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the evolution of humans, exploring the coexistence of Neanderthals and Homo sapiens and the eventual extinction of the former.
    2. They discuss the potential for interbreeding between different human species and the implications for our understanding of human evolution.
    3. They also address the ongoing discovery of new human species and the implications for our understanding of the past.
    4. This segment touches on the fascinating world of human evolution, encouraging listeners to explore the scientific evidence and contemplate the ongoing story of our species.

23. The Power of Sleep

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the importance of sleep, sharing personal experiences with sleep deprivation and the benefits of getting adequate rest.
    2. They discuss the challenges of insomnia and the potential downsides of relying on sleeping pills.
    3. They encourage listeners to prioritize sleep, emphasizing the positive impact it can have on both mental and physical health.
    4. This segment highlights the often-overlooked importance of sleep, prompting reflection on personal sleep habits and the need to prioritize rest.

24. Meditation and Mindfulness

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the benefits of meditation, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and reducing the constant mental chatter.
    2. They encourage listeners to explore different forms of meditation, including simple breathing exercises.
    3. They discuss the potential of meditation to enhance mental clarity, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
    4. This segment highlights the power of mindfulness and the importance of taking time for self-reflection and inner peace.

25. Setting Goals and Personal Growth

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the importance of setting goals and taking a proactive approach to personal growth.
    2. They acknowledge the distractions and challenges of modern life that can impede progress, emphasizing the need for self-discipline and focus.
    3. They encourage listeners to identify their goals, break them down into smaller steps, and take consistent action to achieve them.
    4. This segment serves as a motivational call to action, urging listeners to take control of their lives and pursue their aspirations.

26. The Russian Daredevil Phenomenon

    1. Rogan shares videos of Russian daredevils performing death-defying stunts on skyscrapers and other high-risk locations.
    2. The videos highlight the extreme nature of this activity and the thrill-seeking personalities drawn to it.
    3. They discuss the motivations and psychology behind such risky behavior.
    4. This segment explores the limits of human endurance and the pursuit of adrenaline-fueled experiences, sparking a discussion about risk-taking and the boundaries of personal courage.

27. The World of MMA

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the evolution of MMA, highlighting the increasing athleticism and skill level of fighters.
    2. They discuss the careers of notable fighters such as Anderson Silva, Demetrius Johnson, and Conor McGregor, highlighting their unique abilities and contributions to the sport.
    3. They also discuss the challenges of maintaining friendships and camaraderie within the competitive world of MMA, particularly as fighters move towards the top.
    4. This segment provides a deep dive into the world of MMA, exploring the athleticism, strategy, and psychology behind the sport.

28. The Rise of Connor McGregor

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the meteoric rise of Connor McGregor, highlighting his ability to generate massive pay-per-view sales and his controversial personality.
    2. They discuss the role of trash-talking and marketing in the sport, acknowledging the business side of MMA and the importance of captivating audiences.
    3. They also touch on the potential financial implications of McGregor’s demands, exploring the complex financial structure of the UFC.
    4. This segment highlights the business side of sports, prompting a discussion about the role of marketing, athlete compensation, and the evolving landscape of combat sports.

29. The Ethics of Animal Sex

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan engage in a humorous and thought-provoking discussion about the ethics of bestiality.
    2. They explore the legal definitions of animal sex and the societal taboos surrounding it.
    3. They also discuss the practice of eating animals and the hypocrisy of condemning animal sex while accepting meat consumption.
    4. This segment pushes the boundaries of acceptable conversation, prompting a discussion about societal norms, the human-animal relationship, and the complexities of ethical boundaries.

30. The Gay Marriage Debate

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the legal status of gay marriage in the United States, acknowledging the ongoing debate and the potential impact of Trump’s presidency.
    2. They highlight the hypocrisy of certain states banning gay marriage while not criminalizing bestiality.
    3. The conversation underscores the importance of social progress and the fight for equality.
    4. This segment touches on a critical social issue, prompting reflection on the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the need for a more inclusive society.

31. Trump’s Inauguration and Political Polarization

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the upcoming Trump inauguration and the contrasting responses from Democrats and Republicans.
    2. They discuss the potential for political polarization and the challenges of navigating a divided political landscape.
    3. They encourage listeners to stay vigilant and engage in constructive dialogue to promote a more functional democracy.
    4. This segment provides a commentary on the current political climate, highlighting the need for civic engagement and responsible discourse in an era of heightened political tension.

32. The Importance of Individuality and Diversity

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the importance of individuality and diversity, challenging the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach to social and political issues.
    2. They emphasize the need for understanding and respecting different perspectives, even when those perspectives differ from our own.
    3. They advocate for a more tolerant and inclusive society that embraces individual expression and recognizes the value of diverse voices.
    4. This segment highlights a broader theme of human rights and social justice, encouraging listeners to embrace empathy and work towards a more equitable world.

33. The Impact of Social Media

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the impact of social media on individual behavior and societal discourse.
    2. They highlight the potential for social media to create echo chambers and exacerbate polarization, but also acknowledge its potential to foster connection and mobilize social action.
    3. They encourage listeners to be mindful of their social media consumption and engage in constructive dialogue.
    4. This segment explores the complex relationship between social media and society, prompting reflection on our online behavior and the need for critical engagement with digital platforms.

34. The Importance of Self-Awareness

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the importance of self-awareness, emphasizing the need to understand our own motivations, biases, and blind spots.
    2. They encourage listeners to engage in introspection and critical self-reflection to better understand themselves and their place in the world.
    3. They highlight the importance of personal growth and the ongoing process of self-discovery.
    4. This segment offers a philosophical and introspective note, urging listeners to cultivate self-awareness as a foundation for a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

35. The Power of Music

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the enduring power of music, particularly soul and funk music from the 60s and 70s.
    2. They highlight the unique ability of music to evoke emotions, create connections, and transcend cultural boundaries.
    3. They also discuss the resurgence of classic funk sounds in contemporary music.
    4. This segment celebrates the transformative power of music, reminding listeners of the importance of appreciating artistic expression and its ability to connect us across generations and cultures.

36. The Experience of Edibles

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the experience of consuming edibles, sharing anecdotes and insights about the effects of different dosages.
    2. They highlight the variation in individual reactions to edibles, particularly Jamie’s unusual resistance to their effects.
    3. The conversation touches on the evolving legal status of cannabis and the increasing availability of high-potency strains.
    4. This segment explores the world of cannabis consumption, prompting a discussion about the cultural shift surrounding cannabis use and the expanding range of consumption methods and products.

37. The Importance of Respect for Others

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan emphasize the importance of respecting others, regardless of their beliefs, backgrounds, or choices.
    2. They advocate for open-minded dialogue and understanding, even when confronted with differing views.
    3. They discuss the need to avoid judgment and create a more tolerant and inclusive society.
    4. This segment highlights the importance of human connection and understanding, encouraging listeners to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue to bridge divides and foster a more harmonious world.

38. The Power of Storytelling

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss the power of storytelling, emphasizing its ability to connect people, evoke emotions, and provide insights into the human condition.
    2. They discuss the importance of storytelling in both comedy and sports commentary, highlighting the role of narrative in engaging audiences and conveying meaning.
    3. They also acknowledge the power of stories to inspire, educate, and challenge our perspectives.
    4. This segment celebrates the art of storytelling, reminding listeners of the enduring power of narratives to shape our understanding of the world and ourselves.

39. The Japanese Hidden Camera Massage Porn

    1. Fitzsimmons and Rogan discuss their shared love for a particular type of hidden camera massage porn, highlighting its authenticity and the thrill of watching a real-life encounter.
    2. They discuss the voyeuristic nature of the genre and the appeal of witnessing an unexpected or unconventional sexual encounter.
    3. The conversation delves into the complexities of consent and the power dynamics at play in such scenarios.
    4. This segment explores the intersection of sex, entertainment, and societal norms, prompting a discussion about the boundaries of consent, the allure of voyeurism, and the changing landscape of pornography.

Memorable Quotes

• “Women got it made right now.” – Fitzsimmons jokingly comments on the perceived advantages of being a woman in today’s society.
• “The other thing about executives is and this is something that no one wants to say because it sounds sexist. But it might be that the men are earning more money. Like, it might not just be that they’re making more money. It might be their actual performance as an executive is better.” – Fitzsimmons raises a controversial point about potential differences in performance between male and female executives.
• “The thing is women take time off for work, time off of work for maternity, of course — Right. — if they have babies. but also they tend to work less hours. Men tend to be more ambitious, more driven, work more hours, and they get paid more because of it.” – Fitzsimmons’ argument for the gender wage gap.
• “It’s one of those weird ones where you repeat it. A lot of people repeat it, and they think it’s right. They think that men and women are working alongside each other making the same amount of money.” – Fitzsimmons’ commentary on the widespread acceptance of the 80-cent statistic.
• “You know, I I don’t know how long you get to have a piece of meat and just cover it with salt and leave it laying around at room temperature. but I think it’s a lot more than it would if you didn’t have the salt.” – Fitzsimmons’ explanation of the importance of salt as a preservative in the past.