#1321 - Robert Oberst

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Joe and Robert Discussing Strongman Training

  • Robert talks about the intense cardio involved in strongman training, like pulling a truck with a harness.
  • He mentions the challenges of loading heavy implements, showcasing diaphragm strength and the risk of blacking out.
  • Robert explains a unique exercise to strengthen the diaphragm involving sandbags and breathing techniques.
• 00:02:36

  Joe and Robert Bantering about Fashion Trends

  • Conversation shifts to fashion trends, including 'dick root' style and sagging pants.
  • They discuss the impracticality and origins of sagging pants, reminiscing about personal experiences.
  • Robert talks about his clothing struggles due to his unique body shape and preference for stretchy jeans over regular ones.
• 00:08:48

  Controversial Behaviors in Strongman Sport

  • Narrative around trash-talking and controversial behavior in Strongman sport.
  • Mention of Ben Askren incident in UFC
  • Discussion about celebration and showmanship post-victory
• 00:13:44

  History's Strongest Man TV Series and Feats of Strength

  • Introduction of TV show 'History's Strongest Man' focusing on historical strongmen.
  • Plan to feature Andre the Giant and his daughter in an upcoming episode.
  • Story of Peter Francisco, 'The Virginia Giant', enslaved fighter in Revolutionary War.
• 00:18:27

  Jack Johnson, the Galveston Giant: A Dominant Figure in Boxing History

  • Jack Johnson, also known as the Galveston Giant, stood out in boxing history for his size and dominance.
  • Comparison with other boxers like Joe Lewis, Jack Dempsey, and Rocky Marciano in terms of height and weight.
  • Discussion on the impact of food scarcity on the physical stature of people during that era.
• 00:20:02

  George Washington: The Unstoppable War Hero

  • Narrative on George Washington's exceptional feats during battles and his vital role in American history.
  • Description of Washington's strength and bravery demonstrated on the battlefield.
  • Stories of Washington's valor and strategic moves that played a crucial part in the American Revolution.
• 00:27:57

  Controversy Surrounding Elk and Deer Decimation

  • Wildlife supporters see benefits in preserving plant species from elk and deer predation
  • Critics argue the decimation of elk and deer populations happened too rapidly
  • Differing views between hunters and conservationists on the necessity of large elk herds
• 00:29:20

  Impact of Native Americans' Plague on Buffalo Herds

  • Linking the decline in Native American population to the rise in buffalo herds
  • Revealing the role of European diseases in boosting buffalo numbers by reducing Native American presence
  • Discussion on the unintended consequences of environmental interventions like wolf reintroduction
• 00:38:20

  Discussion on Copyright Law and Social Media Platforms

  • Debate on selective enforcement of copyright law
  • Estimation of Instagram's user base
  • Comparison between regulations on Twitter and Instagram
• 00:39:43

  Exploration of Virtual Reality and Transition to Strongman Competition

  • Insight into the technology behind virtual reality experiences
  • Comparison of virtual achievements versus physical accomplishments
  • Personal journey from security guard to Strongman competitions
• 00:48:41

  Log Press Record & Personal Challenge

  • Describes breaking the American record of 211 kilos in log press.
  • Shares the emotional moment of surpassing a friend's record after his passing.
  • Expresses confidence in breaking the world record of 219 kilos in the upcoming event.
• 00:50:02

  Struggles and Adapting in Strongman

  • Reveals personal struggles while striving in the strongman sport.
  • Discusses the impact of weight loss on performance and health.
  • Highlights the importance of core strength, stretching, and using cannabis for recovery.
• 01:00:46

  Stand Up Comedy in the Belly Room and the Scare in China

  • Performed stand-up in the belly room with the guidance of Nate Fletcher
  • Shared a humorous story about a China trip during a stand-up set
  • Encountered a frightening situation in China after a misunderstanding with a camera crew
• 01:02:57

  Adventures in Dubai and Reflections on Comedic Culture

  • Participated in a strongman competition in Dubai and drove a Ferrari through the city
  • Discussed the contrasting cultural experiences and legal system of Dubai
  • Shared insights on the evolution of the comedy culture at the Comedy Store influenced by camaraderie
• 01:12:05

  Inspirational Stories: Jocco, Goggins, Cameron Haynes

  • Discussion about the inspirational figures like Jocco, Goggins, and Cameron Haynes and their work ethic.
  • Importance of hustle and pushing oneself to do more for personal growth.
  • Impact of social media and podcasts in providing motivation and inspiration to individuals.
• 01:14:24

  UFOs and Contact: Exploring Possibilities

  • Debate on the existence of UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
  • Discussion on UFO sightings by Air Force pilots and accumulated data.
  • Personal reflections on the likelihood of contact with extraterrestrial beings.
• 01:23:10

  Dan Carlin - Master of Hardcore History

  • Dan Carlin's podcast on hardcore history is highly praised for its in-depth research and depth, often likened to a lecture.
  • Listeners highly appreciate episodes on World War One, World War Two, and the Mongols, particularly the Mongol series.
  • Carlin keeps his podcasts affordable, at times charging $1 for deep archive dives, emphasizing his dedication over profit.
• 01:25:26

  Thomas Topham - A Tale of Strength and Pranks

  • An episode focused on Thomas Topham, an eccentric pub owner known for incredible feats of strength like lifting barrels.
  • Reenacted a story where Topham moved a police officer's hut with the officer inside to a graveyard, adding humor to his strength.
  • Discusses the adrenaline and risk involved in various stunts, drawing parallels between stunts and physical feats.
• 01:35:07

  Injuries and Setbacks: Battling Numb Legs and Bicep Tear

  • Suffered lower back injury during weightlifting causing numbness in legs for two months and on-off for two years
  • Qualified for Nationals with numb legs, slept in pickup truck due to discomfort
  • Ripped bicep tendon during competition in Africa, felt broken and defeated, but persevered to make a comeback
• 01:37:37

  Fighting Back: Triumph Over Adversity and Return to Success

  • Refused to give up despite multiple setbacks and torn bicep tendon, pushed through pain
  • Made a strong comeback after surgery and intense rehabilitation, defying predictions of retirement
  • Embraced proper warm-up and conditioning techniques, focused on strength and injury prevention for continued success
• 01:46:54

  Tim Tam and Recovery Struggles

  • Discussion about using Tim Tam for muscle recovery
  • Personal experience with a torn tendon during a world record attempt
  • Importance of recovery in workouts and understanding the need for surgery
• 01:49:11

  Strength Legends and Longevity

  • Brian Shaw's dedication to rehab and longevity in strongman competitions
  • Eddie Hall's record-breaking deadlift and renowned strength
  • Learning from veteran strongmen on maintaining peak performance
• 01:58:29

  World's Strongest Man Circuit and Qualifications

  • Discussion on various powerlifting federations and competitions such as Giants Live
  • Criteria for getting invited to World's Strongest Man competition like top rankings in qualifiers
  • Comparison of strength and invitation process in different countries like America and Iceland
• 02:01:00

  Strongmen Comparisons and Event Preparations

  • Comparison of strength between individuals and countries like America and Iceland
  • Mentions of strongmen like Thor Julius Bjornsson and their achievements
  • Discussion on dietary preferences, particularly regarding meats like bison and elk
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• 02:22:48

  Discussing Beeple, Trump, Kim Jong-un, and The Interview Movie

  • Talking about Beeple's work and mentioning Trump in the context of having 'regular hands.'
  • Referring to a giant Kim Jong-un robot and hinting at Trump's visit to North Korea.
  • Recalling scenes from The Interview movie and discussions about Seth Rogan movies.
• 02:25:16

  Debating Marijuana Use and CBD for Autism

  • Conversation shifts to discussing marijuana use and its benefits in comparison to other substances.
  • Narrating a story about a child with autism finding relief from THC pills.
  • Reflecting on rules and challenges in handling children with autism and the impact of ignorance on treatment.
• 02:34:19

  Discussion on Mental Health and Empathy Issues

  • Reflections on the struggles of individuals with mental health conditions
  • Critique of lack of empathy in certain situations
  • Exploring sociopathy and detachment issues
• 02:36:38

  Conversations on Comedy and Personal Experiences

  • Anecdotes about interactions with a comedian
  • Appreciation for comedy as a form of release
  • Musing on the fascination with aliens and Bigfoot
• 02:45:47

  African Civilization and Ancient Structures in Egypt

  • Discussion on Africans traveling the world in boats and being in America first
  • Exploration of the advanced civilization of Egypt and the construction of mysterious structures like the Great Pyramid
  • Speculation on the innovative society that existed tens of thousands of years ago
• 02:48:10

  Historical Discoveries and Insights from Ancient Times

  • Uncovering a 3500-year-old sunken castle that challenges historical timelines
  • Exploration of ancient civilizations like Sumer in Iraq and their contributions to writing and mathematics
  • Reflecting on the limited historical information and the impact of winners writing history