
#1968 - Jason Everman
Jason Everman is a musician and military veteran. Prior to his service as a US Army Ranger and Green Beret, Everman was a guitarist in Soundgarden and Nirvana. Learn more about Team Supernautiloid and Race to Alaska 2023 at www.supernautiloid.com.
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Key Takeaways
Creative input in bands can be stifled by poor communication.
Understanding the importance of clear communication to foster creativity in collaborative settings.
Personal dreams can lead to significant life changes beyond music.
The desire to fulfill personal aspirations reflects a deeper quest for identity and purpose.
Personal trauma can drive significant growth and transformation.
Understanding this can help individuals leverage their challenges for personal development.
Relocating to a new city can lead to fresh opportunities.
This highlights the importance of stepping out of comfort zones to pursue dreams.
Transitioning to New York marked a significant change in the speaker's music career.
This transition reflects the challenges and growth experienced by musicians in different environments.
Episode Timestamps
Musician Reflects on Nirvana's Early Days and Personal Journey
- The guest shares experiences with Nirvana and Soundgarden during their early careers.
- Communication issues within Nirvana led to creative frustrations and eventual departure.
- The guest expresses a desire to pursue trekking in the Himalayas post-Nirvana.
The Journey of a Musician After Leaving Soundgarden
- The speaker faced challenges after being fired from Soundgarden.
- Relocated to New York City to explore life and career opportunities.
- Reflected on personal growth stemming from childhood trauma and experiences.
Musical Journey from Seattle to New York: A Personal Reflection
- The speaker recounts their transition from Seattle to New York City.
- They discuss their experiences touring with various indie rock bands.
- The impact of emotional investment in music is emphasized throughout the discussion.
Musician Reflects on Career Transition and Band Dynamics
- The speaker discusses joining a new band after a career hiatus.
- Excitement about financial stability with a major label contract.
- The band faced challenges with its name and creative direction.
Struggles and Resilience in the Music Industry Journey
- A band faces a major setback when their label drops them unexpectedly.
- Support from a new manager leads to a new recording opportunity in Seattle.
- The band relocates to San Francisco, marking a pivotal change in their journey.
Exploring Military Influence on Personal Growth and Adventure
- The speaker shares their family military background and its impact on their life.
- They reflect on childhood adventures that shaped their adventurous spirit.
- The speaker emphasizes the importance of actively authoring one's life journey.
Military Experiences: From Recruitment to Ranger Selection
- The speaker shares their journey from civilian life to military recruitment.
- Details are provided on the intense physical training for Ranger selection.
- Personal challenges faced during basic training highlight the commitment required.
Transition from Military to Education and Personal Growth
- The speaker transitioned from military service to community college after personal loss.
- Discovery of passion for learning occurred during community college courses.
- Events like 9/11 influenced the speaker's return to military service.
Experiences and Insights from Military Service in Combat Zones
- Military training and first experiences during 9/11 shaped soldiers' perspectives.
- Combat experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan are described as profound and life-changing.
- The primal nature of humans and warfare is explored in a philosophical context.
Understanding Human Conflict Through Tribal Connections
- Human beings are naturally tribal, influencing social structures and relationships.
- PTSD and combat experiences reveal deep psychological insights into human behavior.
- Our brains are wired to manage small groups, echoing evolutionary survival needs.
Discussion on U.S. Military's Role in Afghan Opium Production
- The U.S. military's involvement in guarding Afghan poppy fields raises ethical questions.
- Corruption within the Afghan government significantly impacts opium trade dynamics.
- Historical connections to ancient civilizations in Afghanistan enrich the current narrative.
Exploring the Rich History and Current State of Afghanistan
- Afghanistan's historical influences include Greco-Buddhism and cultural resilience.
- The futility of Western attempts to control Afghanistan's complex landscape is emphasized.
- Ecotourism potential in Afghanistan highlights the country's natural beauty and history.
Military Transition and Personal Growth Explored
- The military experience shapes adaptability and resilience in individuals.
- Higher education presents challenges and opportunities for personal development.
- The journey towards self-discovery involves introspection and new experiences.
Cynicism and Nautical Adventures: A Personal Journey
- Speaker reflects on personal cynicism regarding marriage and relationships.
- Discussion includes a transition from land to living on a sailboat.
- Experiences of sailing and its primal appeal are explored.
Military Values and Personal Growth through Sailing Adventures
- Discusses the importance of fundamentals learned in military service.
- Highlights a sailing project involving veterans and music collaboration.
- Emphasizes personal growth through challenging life experiences.
Parenting Insights and the Impact of Childhood Experiences
- The influence of childhood trauma shapes adult perspectives on parenting.
- Parenthood fundamentally alters one's capacity for love and understanding.
- Financial success does not equate to a fulfilling life or happiness.
Exploring Internal Validation and Personal Relationships in Life
- The pursuit of external validation often leads to dissatisfaction and superficiality.
- Building meaningful personal relationships is crucial for joy and personal growth.
- Empathy towards others enhances our understanding and human experience.
Exploring Eudaimonia and the Pursuit of Authentic Fulfillment
- Many people chase external validation, leading to dissatisfaction and 'quiet desperation'.
- The pursuit of money can distract from genuine human flourishing and fulfillment.
- True happiness stems from internal satisfaction rather than material possessions or societal status.
Reflections on Success and Happiness in Music Industry
- Artists often find that fame doesn't guarantee happiness or fulfillment.
- Financial success can come at the cost of personal happiness and identity.
- Experiences and personal growth are more valuable than monetary gains.
Navigating the Literary World: A Personal Journey
- The speaker reflects on their experience writing a book proposal in Buenos Aires.
- They discuss the challenges faced with literary agents and narrative suggestions.
- Grad school acceptance led to putting the book project on hold for the time being.
People Mentioned
Kurt Cobain
Lead singer of Nirvana
Chad Channing
Drummer of Nirvana
Chris Cornell
Lead vocalist of Soundgarden
John Zorn
Avant-garde jazz musician, producer
Pat Dubar
Singer of Mind Funk
Sean
Friend and band member
Johnny Z
Manager, Music Manager
Pat
Band member, Musician
Terry
Producer
Speaker
Narrator
Unnamed Speaker
Military Veteran, Military Recruit, Student
Unnamed military personnel
Soldier, Military instructor
Harald Rivera
Fox News Reporter
Robin Lee Graham
Author
Robin Graham
Author, Sailor
Barrett Martin
Drummer, Grammy Award-winning Producer
Unnamed speaker
Comedian, Grad student, Parent, Writer
Jim Brewer
Comedian
Places Mentioned
Himalayas
Mountain range
New York City
City
Seattle
City
CBGBs
Legendary punk club
Alphabet City
Neighborhood in Manhattan
Bearsville Studio
Recording studio
San Francisco
City
Olympic Rainforest Peninsula
Geographical location
Olympic College
Community College
Fort Bragg
Military base
Iraq
Country
Afghanistan
Country
Niristan
Region in Afghanistan
Kandahar
City in Afghanistan
Buenos Aires
City
Montana
State in the USA
South Atlantic and Pacific Islands
Geographical locations
Books Mentioned
Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging
Sebastian Junger
Dove
Robin Lee Graham
Sailor Returns to the Sea
Robin Graham
Notable Quotes
"Like, Kurt wanted a second guitar player live show."
Discussing Nirvana's early lineup and the need for a fuller sound.
"I'm going to fulfill a dream I've had since a kid."
Mentioning plans to trek in the Himalayas after leaving Nirvana.
"Getting fired from Soundgarden like broke my heart."
Discussing the emotional impact of leaving a beloved band.
"I'm a firm believer growth results from trauma."
Expressing the belief that challenges lead to personal evolution.
"Honestly, probably touch bass guitar like first year getting fired Soundgarden."
Reflecting on their early career and the challenges faced.