The Joe Rogan Experience

“That’s my only goal. Surround myself with funny people, and make sure everyone has a good time and works hard.” Joe Rogan

I believe Joe Rogan is a pioneer of podcasting. A friend introduced me to Rogan’s podcast, suggesting I check out his style and format. He also thought I would enjoy and find his conversations interesting and perhaps even a little educational. That’s how my Joe Rogan experience began.

It’s not a podcast that I listen to all the time. The primary reason for that is because it is bloody long. In the real sense of conversational podcasting, Joe has nailed it. Episodes range from two hours up. I would guess the average length is three-hours.

As an MMA fighter and enthusiast, some episodes are updates on current competitions. Not sure what goes on in these episodes as I’ve never listened in. It’s not of my particular interest.

When I do decide to tune in, I prefer the ones he brings on guests. Again, I have to be prepared for it, be in the right frame of mind, and be doing something that allows me to consume the conversation without being actively involved. Typically I enjoy listening to his show on a Sunday afternoon when I am out digging in my garden.

I find it the kind of format that doesn’t need my direct attention. I can zone in and out, occupying myself with various tasks while the conversation between Joe and his guest happen in the background. For this reason, I listen to a Rogan podcast about once a month.

Why do I listen to Joe Rogan? Firstly, it is an experience. He is just an exciting and diverse dude. He is a stand-up comedian but has a passion for most arts and interested in various fields of psychology to science to evolution and the nature of modern life. For this reason, the guests he has on are from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. I enjoy that variety.

On occasions it is Joe and a bunch of his friends rambling on about various matters and current events, and at other times he is delving into an almost serious conversation that is related to the particular guest’s field of expertise.

I say “almost serious” because I get an indication that Joe is never that serious about anything. He seems to be a pretty open, authentic, relaxed, down to Earth kind of guy. In saying that, I feel he is clearly dedicated to the pursuit of his passions, MMA and various sporting activities like archery or hunting with crossbows. The kind of dedication that would require a good level of focus, discipline, and seriousness.

Anyway, all my assumptions based on limited perspective. I think the reason why I like his show is that Joe is so open to conversation on a broad range of subjects and while he holds his ground when it comes to individual opinions and perspectives he welcomes opposing arguments and views also.

I must say I am never, or very rarely, disappointed with the conversations. I always walk away fulfilled, feeling good, and somehow a little more educated, inspired, entertained and with thought that I can take away to contemplate over.

I dive into Joe’s podcast much like I guess he jumps into the conversations he has, without any apparent intent or expectation. I am sure he must have some reason for bringing on his guests however it doesn’t sound that way. And I like that. Again, it’s a conversational show.

My criteria for selecting which episodes to listen is based on length and available time then just click and play. I very rarely know the name of his guests nor do I read the show description to get a briefing on topics covered. If I am in the mood for Joe, I’m in the mood for Joe. As I said, I am rarely disappointed.

Admittedly sometimes he and his guests can ramble on. And generally speaking, Joe can only do his interviews as exciting and as fascinating as the quality of his guests allow. In saying that there has only been a couple of guests that I found annoying, egotistical or that I simply didn’t enjoy.

Joe himself is a delight. He’s a bit spiritual in the most relaxed from there is. I like his approach to life. He is humble, curious, knowledgeable, and fascinated about many aspects of life. He is here to enjoy his life the best he can, and in that, I feel he has a balanced approach to life.

He seems to enjoy having a good time and at the same time keeps his health in check, focuses on disciplined practice for those things he enjoys and is not all about doing more than necessary to live a kick-ass life. What I mean is that he has many reasons to show off but has no need to prove himself to anyone. He lives life on his terms.

When I first listened to his podcast, I felt a bit confronted and maybe a little put off. But once I got into it I found it hard to resist the great conversations he has. It is one that will likely remain on my list for some time to come.

Check out his podcast by following this link here. 

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Further Reading and Resources 

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Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

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Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.

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