#838 - Josh Zepps cover

#838 - Josh Zepps

NaN minutesEpisode #838

Josh Zepps is the host of #WeThePeople LIVE available on Spotify and at

Episode Timestamps

  • Joe Rogan, Sam Harris, and Hannibal Buress Engage in a Tipsy Debate on Police Violence

    • Joe Rogan hosted Sam Harris and Hannibal Buress for a late-night podcast episode following a day of shows.
    • The conversation turns into a heated debate about statistics relating to police violence and Black Lives Matter.
    • Hannibal Buress makes bold claims while drunk, leading to a humorous but touching discussion on the importance of meaningful conversations.
  • Kurt Metzger's Controversial Rant Sparks a Discussion on Women’s Credibility in Sexual Assault Cases

    • The podcast shifts to a controversial Facebook rant by Kurt Metzger concerning sexual assault accusations and women's reliability.
    • Rogan and his guests discuss the sensitive balance between believing survivors and addressing false accusations.
    • The conversation highlights the challenges of discussing such topics in today's social climate, particularly in comedy.
  • Kurt's Controversial Stand on Rape Accusations and Masculinity

    • Discussion on the impact of false rape accusations on innocent individuals, referencing a friend's experience with false claims.
    • Exploration of rape statistics and the challenges in accurately representing the experiences of women who don't come forward.
    • Kurt argues against internal investigations, advocating for victims to go to the police rather than remain silent or seek internal resolutions.
  • The Injustice of Sexual Assault Cases and Miscarriages of Justice

    • Contrasting cases of men wrongfully accused of rape with severe cases of actual sexual assault, highlighting systemic issues.
    • Discussion of a specific case of a college swimmer who received a lenient sentence for a brutal attack, comparing it to wrongful accusations.
    • Exploration of societal attitudes towards consent and the dangers of misinterpretation in cases involving intoxication and sexual activity.
  • Neuroscientist Dissects the Controversial Use of fMRI in Criminal Trials: The Case from India

    • Discussion on how fMRI technology was used in India to convict a woman based on her alleged knowledge of a crime scene.
    • Highlighting the ethical concerns raised by neuroscientists regarding the misuse and misrepresentation of fMRI results in the legal system.
    • The complexity of determining guilt or innocence in cases, especially sensitive ones like rape, using current neuroscience techniques.
  • MIT's Steve Ramirez and Zulu Pioneer False Memory Implantation: Implications for Virtual Reality

    • MIT researchers successfully implanted a false memory in a mouse, which raises ethical and practical questions about memory manipulation.
    • Exploration of virtual reality advancements by discussing the evolution of VR technology and the looming presence of augmented reality.
    • Concerns around technology leading to increased isolation versus fostering genuine connections in social contexts.
  • Joe Rogan and the Spiritual Encounter with Humpback Whales in Maui

    • Joe Rogan recounts his experience swimming with humpback whales and the awe it instilled in him.
    • He discusses environmental restrictions on swimming near whales to prevent harassment.
    • Rogan also shares a memorable dolphin excursion with his daughter, highlighting the beauty of marine life.
  • The Tragic Downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17: A Conversation on Consequences

    • Joe talks about the tragic incident where the Malaysia Airlines flight was shot down over Ukraine, killing many experts heading to a major AIDS conference.
    • He explains the geopolitical context, including Russia's involvement and the mistaken assumption of the rebels.
    • The conversation delves into the potential awareness of passengers during such catastrophic events, emphasizing the suddenness and tragedy of the situation.
  • Ari Shafir and the Quest for Online Community: Dissecting Disenfranchisement

    • Online communities attract individuals disconnected from physical social environments, often leading to problematic behaviors.
    • Many spend excessive time online, exemplified by cases of people who remain at home, surviving on disability checks while immersed in virtual interactions.
    • Ari Shafir's peculiar actions, including voyeuristic tendencies, highlight the troubling impact of technology on human interaction and attention spans.
  • Understanding the Polymath: Creative Minds and Digital Distraction

    • Creative freedoms are often stifled by constant disruptions from technology, driving discussions about discipline and the need for boredom.
    • Podcasts allow for dynamic and fluid conversations, emphasizing the importance of engaging communication over just relaying information.
    • Both hosts express the struggle of juggling multiple interests without expertise, endorsing the value of being a 'polymath' in today's distraction-laden society.
  • Joe Rogan's Wilderness Escape: Hunting Mule Deer in the Nevada Desert

    • Joe Rogan shares his experience of a week-long hunting trip with friends in Nevada's desert, disconnected from technology.
    • The group attempted to hunt mule deer but ended up relying on freeze-dried food after consuming their provisions.
    • Rogan emphasizes the mental health benefits of disconnecting from society and technology, particularly social media.
  • The Impact of Social Media: Reflections from Louis C.K.'s Insights

    • Discussion on how social media, particularly Twitter, provides constant dopamine hits but distracts from genuine human experiences.
    • Joe mentions Louis C.K.'s perspective on the emotional pain of being human and the temptation to reach for phones instead of embracing feelings.
    • The conversation touches upon Louis C.K.'s choice to delete Twitter and the larger implications of fame and digital connectivity in modern life.
  • Louis CK's Bold Investment: The Risks and Rewards of Creating a Sitcom

    • Louis CK invested all his savings into creating a sitcom, risking financial failure.
    • Despite initial media claims of him being broke, CK successfully recouped his investment through online sales.
    • The public favors stories of failure over success, leading to exaggerated headlines about his financial struggles.
  • Joe Rogan's Humorous Car Incident: The Joy and Trouble of Driving a Vintage Jaguar

    • Joe Rogan recounts a childhood experience of borrowing a 1960s Jaguar that caught fire during a drive.
    • His parents felt obligated to pay for the restoration of the car, despite the owner's wealth.
    • The conversation highlights the quirks and challenges of vintage car ownership, emphasizing British engineering flaws.
  • Josh Zapp's Hilarious IVF Journey: The Comedy of Creating a Superhuman

    • Josh Zapp candidly discusses his experience with in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the comedic aspects of donating a sperm sample.
    • During a work meeting, he humorously contrasts the mundane conversation with the significant act of creating a human.
    • The narrative also reveals the chaotic shifts at the Huffington Post with the firing of its founder, Ariana Huffington, amid corporate changes.
  • Ariana Huffington's Sleep Revolution and AOL's Corporate Downfall

    • Ariana Huffington's focus on sleep and personal wellness is explored, including her promotion of sleep-related ideas through her book 'The Sleep Revolution'.
    • The chapter highlights the acquisition of Huffington Post by AOL and the eventual corporate turmoil leading to Huffington's departure.
    • Discussion includes the oddities of AOL's continued existence and its business model alongside the cultural shifts in media consumption.
  • The Impact of Technology on Animals: Bees and Whales' Silent Struggles

    • Discussion on how Wi-Fi and cellular signals interfere with bee communication and behavior.
    • Exploration of long-distance sonar used by the U.S. military and its effect on whale migratory patterns.
    • Reflection on the psychological effects of technology on humans, comparing it to the natural state experienced in remote areas.
  • The Evolution of Human Cognition: Integration with Technology and Artificial Intelligence

    • Consideration of the relationship between humans and technology, suggesting a future integration into biology.
    • Mention of Ray Kurzweil's theory that artificial intelligence and human intelligence will become indistinguishable.
    • Anecdote about the social and cognitive impacts of constant technological distractions, as exemplified by podcast habits.
  • Sam Harris and the Rapid Evolution of Artificial Intelligence

    • Discussion on the potential exponential growth of AI abilities as highlighted by Sam Harris.
    • Exploration of the philosophical implications of AI self-awareness and feeling.
    • Contrast between traditional carbon-based life and potential idea-based life forms.
  • The Philosophy of Experience: Qualia and Human Imagination

    • Delves into the philosophical concept of qualia and the difference between knowledge and experience.
    • Highlights the significance of imagination in creativity and innovation.
    • Exploration of whether machines can ever truly experience feelings akin to humans.
  • Elon Musk's Theory on the Nature of Reality: Are We Living in a Simulation?

    • Elon Musk argues that the likelihood of living in a virtual reality is significantly higher due to the potential for multiple virtual realities in the future.
    • The discussion reveals philosophical inquiries about consciousness, qualia, and the difference between artificial intelligence and human experiences.
    • Debates about defining 'reality' and how experiences can be genuinely perceived when replicated by technology.
  • Experiencing Ayahuasca: A Journey into the Cosmos Revealed by Joe Rogan

    • Joe Rogan shares his first experience with ayahuasca, a traditional hallucinogen from the Amazon, detailing a shamanistic ceremony led in Brooklyn.
    • Rogan discusses the visual hallucinations and profound realizations he encountered, blurring the lines between reality and perception.
    • The conversation explores the historical significance of ayahuasca in South American religions and its complex chemistry involving DMT and MAO inhibitors.
  • Josh Sepps' Ayahuasca Journey: Insights on Consciousness and Surrender

    • Josh Sepps shares his experiences with ayahuasca, emphasizing moments of joy and darkness during the trip.
    • He illustrates the importance of relinquishing control to avoid negative trips, leading him to experience joy in simple actions like hiding under a blanket.
    • Sepps describes a profound realization about self-awareness and consciousness during his trip, reminding himself of humanity's place in the cosmos.
  • Exploring Reality and Dimensions: The Psychedelic Discourse Between Josh Sepps and Joe

    • The dialogue touches on the experiences of DMT and ayahuasca, exploring the potential for transcending physical dimensions.
    • Sepps discusses how psychedelics could connect humanity to deeper aspects of consciousness and innovation.
    • The conversation links ancient religious experiences, such as Moses and the burning bush, to the effects of psychedelics, suggesting a historical context for spiritual experiences.
  • Moses and the DMT-Rich Acacia Tree: Exploring Psychedelics as Healing Tools

    • Discussion of acacia trees as a source of DMT and their historical context in Moses' time.
    • Highlighting the potential of ayahuasca in Australia to assist with addiction recovery.
    • Exploring the contrast between consciousness and the constraints evolution places on mental experiences.
  • Terrence McKenna and the Nature of DMT Experiences: Hallucinations or Realities?

    • Analyses of McKenna's beliefs regarding DMT and the concept of communicating with other entities.
    • Discussion on the differences between ayahuasca and pure DMT experiences and their respective impacts on consciousness.
    • Debate surrounding the existence of spiritual dimensions versus mere hallucinations during psychedelic experiences.
  • Joe Rogan and Penn Jillette Debate the Nature of Consciousness and Ayahuasca

    • The discussion contrasts Penn Jillette's skeptical views on ayahuasca with the transformative experiences of others.
    • Participants often emerge from these experiences with positive insights such as interconnectedness and the importance of love.
    • The conversation touches on Anthony Robbins' philosophy about fulfillment over mere success.
  • Joe Rogan Reflects on Personal Fulfillment and Creative Struggles

    • Rogan shares his experiences with dissatisfaction in creative work and the pressures of success, highlighting how perfectionism affects him.
    • He discusses the elusive nature of fulfillment and what it means to different individuals, particularly in the context of creative professions.
    • The dialogue includes thoughts on the importance of authenticity in creativity and the challenges of self-discovery for artists.
  • Joe Rogan Discusses the Perils of Early Success and Personal Authenticity

    • Joe Rogan reflects on the challenges artists face when they achieve early success and how it affects their creativity.
    • He emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself in the podcasting and comedy industry, discussing his past attempts at being someone he wasn't.
    • Rogan critiques figures like Anthony Robbins, arguing that true fulfillment comes from continual growth and authenticity rather than rest on past accolades.
  • Sam Kinison's Rise and Fall: The Life of a Comedy Legend

    • Rogan recounts how Sam Kinison was a groundbreaking comedian in the 1980s, known for his outrageous and raw style.
    • He shares anecdotes from his life, highlighting Kinison's struggle with substance abuse and how it impacted his comedic career.
    • The discussion underscores the challenge many comedians face in maintaining creativity and authenticity amid fame and personal demons.
  • Roseanne Barr's Legacy: From Comedian to Presidential Candidate

    • Discussion on Roseanne Barr's impact on comedy and representation of women and the working class.
    • Reflection on her run for presidency and a documentary highlighting her unfiltered nature.
    • The contrast between being handled by agents and being authentic in public appearances.
  • The Complexities of Fame: Inside Life with Robert De Niro and Johnny Depp

    • Insights into the alienation that comes with extreme fame, illustrated by Robert De Niro's experience on a flight.
    • Comparison of celebrity interactions - how fans treat TV hosts differently than movie stars.
    • Doug Stanhope shares his experiences with Johnny Depp's overwhelming fame and the lack of personal privacy.
  • Joe Rogan's Remarkable Recovery: The Miraculous Power of Stem Cells

    • Joe Rogan shares his experience with severe shoulder injuries from martial arts and weightlifting.
    • He discusses undergoing stem cell treatments that significantly improved his condition without surgery.
    • Rogan emphasizes the groundbreaking potential of stem cell therapy in modern medicine.
  • The Controversy of Race in Sports: Michael Phelps and Simone Manuel's Historic Night

    • The conversation highlights the problematic headlines surrounding Michael Phelps and Simone Manuel's accomplishments at the Olympics.
    • Rogan critiques how media often over-emphasizes race in reporting achievements, leading to awkward and insensitive presentations.
    • The discussion reflects on societal issues of race and media representation in sports journalism.
  • Ryan Lochte's Lie Exposed: A Lesson in Accountability

    • Ryan Lochte's dishonesty during the Rio 2016 Olympics leads to public humiliation.
    • Discussion on the concept of 'male athletes as a protected class' and its implications.
    • The societal impact of social media on the narrative surrounding athletes and scandals.
  • Ellen DeGeneres Faces Backlash: The Racism Debate in Humor

    • Ellen DeGeneres's playful tweet about Usain Bolt sparks accusations of racism.
    • Exploration of the notion of cultural appropriation and its implications in modern discourse.
    • The importance of context and intent in assessing whether humor can truly be racist.
  • Controversy at Saatchi: Kevin Roberts Fired for Comments on Feminism

    • Kevin Roberts, a senior executive at Saatchi and Saatchi, was fired for stating there is no sexism in his company, attributing women's success to their priorities beyond corporate ambitions.
    • His remarks suggested that women have a more holistic view of success compared to the traditional male ambition for wealth and power, sparking backlash.
    • The firing led to discussions about the appropriateness of a white male's comments on sexism, raising questions about free speech and the ideological pressure in corporate environments.
  • Social Media and the Ideological Thought Police: The Dangers of Digital Witch Hunts

    • The discussion highlights how social media facilitates public outrage and swift punishment for individuals expressing controversial opinions, exemplified by Roberts' firing.
    • The speakers express concern over the idea of ideological censorship, where merely old-fashioned opinions may lead to severe backlash and administrative leave.
    • They argue for a diverse discourse in society, stressing the importance of allowing various opinions even if they contradict prevailing views of political correctness.
  • Debating Racism and Gender: Insights from a 1980s Broadcast Incident

    • Discussion on the challenges women face in achieving management positions and the existence of a glass ceiling.
    • Reference to a controversial 1980s incident involving an English broadcaster using racial slurs against a player.
    • The complexities of responding to unpopular opinions without resorting to censorship or firing individuals.
  • The Mezger Controversy: Crime, Opinions, and Podcasting Conflicts

    • The discussion shifts to allegations against Kurt Mezger regarding serious accusations of sexual misconduct.
    • Debate over the appropriate response to Mezger's controversial opinions in the context of professional repercussions.
    • Encouragement of new media platforms like podcasts as alternatives for those expressing unpopular views.
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