#2214 - Shane Smith

At a Glance

• Discussing Impact of Drugs on Performance - ‘We used to get people way high before the show and then they would kind of close off. It’s not good.’ This highlights the negative effects of drugs on performance, especially in a high-pressure setting like a podcast.

• Humor in Unexpected Situations - ‘I used to love to get my opening act super high. Just to watch them panic when they go out there.’ This remark shows the host’s sense of humor and the informal, sometimes chaotic atmosphere of earlier performances.

• Challenges of Communication While High - ‘The scariest thing is when you’re talking and you don’t know what you’re talking about.’ This underscores the difficulty of articulating thoughts clearly under the influence, which can be a significant hindrance in any form of communication.

• Evolution and Funding of Podcast - ‘It was just to do it because it didn’t make any money for so long.’ Reflects on the humble beginnings and initial struggles of the podcast, emphasizing passion over profit.

• Importance of Authenticity in Media - ‘The reason why podcasts work, I think, is because people are listening and they know it’s just a conversation.’ Highlights the value of authenticity and genuine interaction in media, which resonates with listeners more than scripted content.

• Disruption of Traditional Media Models - ‘I don’t think professional’s good.’ Critiques the overly polished and often insincere nature of professional media, advocating for a more raw and honest format in podcasts.

• Personal Growth and Interest-Driven Content - ‘It’s just what I’m interested in. It just happens to be that a lot of people are interested in these things.’ Shows the importance of pursuing personal interests and how it can unexpectedly lead to widespread appeal and success.

• Role of Live Performances in Human Connection - ‘Watching comedy live is 70% better. Because you’re there. It’s a real experience.’ Emphasizes the irreplaceable value of live performances in creating real human connections, which cannot be replicated through digital means.

• Reflection on Materialism and Happiness - ‘All you really want is to be able to go to a restaurant and not worry about what things cost. Everything else is bullshit.’ Highlights a simple yet profound insight on what brings happiness, cutting through the clutter of material desires.

• Critique of News Media - ‘You’re not a news organization anymore. You’re a propaganda outlet and everybody knows it.’ A serious critique of how some news media may have strayed from objective reporting to become mouthpieces for various agendas, eroding public trust.

What to Do

• ‘Do less shit if you need an assistant you’re doing too many things’ - Emphasizes simplicity and managing workload to avoid unnecessary stress and complications.

• ‘The levels of how many people have learned to control their emotions’ - Stresses the importance of emotional intelligence and self-regulation for mental health and effective decision-making.

• ‘Figure out a way to get the fuck out of that job and actually do it don’t talk about it fucking do it’ - Encourages taking decisive action towards fulfilling work, which is essential for personal satisfaction and happiness.

• ‘You’re living in the greatest fucking window of time ever in the history of fucking time’ - Reminds us to appreciate and make the most of the current moment, which can enhance overall life satisfaction.

• ‘Enjoy the fucking shit out of today because this is the best day in the fucking world ever’ - Promotes a positive outlook and gratitude for the present, which is beneficial for mental well-being.

• ‘Learn and grow. We all make mistakes’ - Advocates for a growth mindset, emphasizing learning from errors as a path to improvement and resilience.

• ‘The problem is, most people have never been encouraged to pursue their interest’ - Highlights the importance of following one’s passions for a fulfilling and meaningful life.

• ‘If you don’t, you’re going to be sad’ - Suggests that not pursuing personal interests or changes can lead to dissatisfaction and unhappiness.

• ‘Enjoy the fact that we’re not in rubble’ - Encourages appreciation of stability and peace, fostering a sense of gratitude and contentment.

• ‘It’s the greatest country the world has ever known in the middle of all the bullshit’ - Reminds us to recognize and value the positive aspects of our environment, despite its imperfections.

What to Get

• Rise and Kill First: The Secret History of Israel’s Targeted Assassinations by Ronen Bergman - Amazon - Provides historical insights, possibly used for understanding strategic military and political decisions.

• The Vice Guide to Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll by Suroosh Alvi, Gavin McInnes, and Shane Smith - Amazon

Summary

In this episode of the Joe Rogan Experience, Joe engages in a dynamic conversation with Shane Smith who has recently embarked on his own podcasting journey. The discussion delves into a variety of topics, most notably the impact of COVID-19, the influence of social media on public perception, and the guest’s transition from being a passive observer to becoming an active participant in the media world.

The guest shares his experiences and revelations during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting a shift in his perspective on vaccines and other significant issues, which he describes as moving from a belief in the pinnacle of human technology to questioning mainstream narratives, including the authenticity of the moon landing. This period of isolation and online engagement led him to start his own podcast to explore and discuss these topics more deeply.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the role of social media in shaping public opinion and the guest’s efforts to discern truth from falsehood in the overwhelming flow of information. This leads to a broader discussion on the challenges faced by mainstream media and the rise of independent journalism. The guest emphasizes the importance of investigative journalism and the need for media to operate outside of traditional corporate and political influences to maintain legitimacy.

Joe and his guest also touch upon personal anecdotes and the evolution of podcasting as a platform for free expression. They discuss the early days of podcasting, where it was more about fun and passion rather than profit. The conversation also covers the logistical growth of podcasting from simple setups to more elaborate studios, reflecting on how the essence of podcasting is in its authenticity and the personal connection it fosters with the audience.

Overall, the episode is a reflective and insightful exploration of contemporary issues affecting media, public perception, and the power of independent voices in a digital age dominated by social media and big corporations. It encapsulates a journey of awakening and transformation driven by a desire to seek truth and engage in meaningful dialogue.