#988 - Nick Swardson

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Chester Bennington's Tragic Legacy: The Pain Behind the Fame

  • The discussion revolves around the tragic deaths of iconic musicians including Chester Bennington and Chris Cornell.
  • Chester committed suicide on Chris's birthday, highlighting a deep emotional connection and shared struggles.
  • The conversation reflects on the mental health challenges faced by stars in the spotlight, despite their success.
• 00:06:09

  Political Scandals Unveiled: The Minneapolis Airport Incident

  • A discussion about a politician arrested for soliciting sex in a public restroom, showcasing the absurdity of hidden desires.
  • The incident reveals the secret signals used by individuals engaging in such misconduct, including foot tapping.
  • The dialogue portrays a mix of humor and sadness regarding societal pressures that force individuals to hide their sexual identity.
• 00:09:55

  Big John McCarthy's Views on Law Enforcement and Accountability

  • Discussion on the dual nature of police officers: some are trustworthy while others can misuse their power.
  • Example of a Baltimore cop planting drugs on video, raising concerns about police integrity.
  • Highlighting Big John McCarthy, former cop and UFC referee, as an exemplary figure in law enforcement.
• 00:17:23

  Bill Romanowski's Journey: From Football Savage to Neutropic Advocate

  • Bill Romanowski's transition from a football player to a health advocate after suffering from memory issues.
  • Discussion on the significance of neutropics in improving cognitive function and performance.
  • How supplements like Neuro1 emerged as a solution for athletes facing head injury-related challenges.
• 00:20:12

  Joe Rogan's Insights on Alpha Brain and Katy Perry's Cultural Appropriation Controversy

  • Joe Rogan discusses his experience with the nootropic Alpha Brain, mentioning its effects on dreams and cognitive enhancement.
  • Katy Perry is highlighted for apologizing for cultural appropriation due to wearing braids, leading to a bizarre interaction with Durey Maccassan of Black Lives Matter.
  • Rogan addresses the skepticism surrounding nootropics and cultural appropriation debates in society today.
• 00:26:36

  Exploring the Nature of Dreams and Reality with Joe Rogan

  • Rogan shares his experiences with lucid dreaming and the surreal nature of dreams, questioning the boundaries of reality.
  • The discussion touches on the ambiguity of what happens in our minds during sleep and the concept of dreams as potential alternative realities.
  • Rogan emphasizes the importance of dreams in understanding consciousness and the human experience.
• 00:29:23

  Nick Swartzen Explores the Bizarre Nature of Reality and Dreams

  • Nick Swartzen discusses how dreams may represent access to different realities and timelines.
  • He expresses fascination with human culture and the bizarre nature of everyday life, using Times Square as an example.
  • Swartzen speculates about the implications of dreaming on consciousness and life decisions, suggesting the existence of alternate lives.
• 00:36:58

  Chris Henry's Tragic CTE Discovery Shakes NFL Community

  • Discussion revolves around the discovery of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in Chris Henry, a promising NFL player who died young.
  • Recent studies show alarming statistics regarding CTE in former NFL players, highlighting a prevalent issue in the sport.
  • The conversation raises awareness about the long-term effects of repeated head trauma in athletes, affecting even those seemingly in their prime.
• 00:39:29

  Mighty Mouse and NFL's Dangerous Collision: A Discussion with Joe Rogan

  • Joe Rogan discusses the differences in injury risk between elite fighters like Mighty Mouse and NFL players.
  • The conversation highlights the nature of brain damage in contact sports, particularly in fighting and football.
  • Rogan introduces the concept of the American Flag Football League as an alternative to traditional NFL gameplay.
• 00:45:35

  Chloe Sevigny’s Career and Controversial Choices Post-Brown Bunny with Vincent Gallo

  • The discussion shifts to Chloe Sevigny and Vincent Gallo's roles in the controversial film Brown Bunny, impacting their careers.
  • Sevigny is noted for her successful projects including Boys Don't Cry, Big Love, and other indie films following the backlash.
  • The fallout from Brown Bunny showcases the stark contrasts in how controversial choices affect male and female actors in Hollywood.
• 00:49:08

  Joe Rogan Reflects on the Intensity of Hot Yoga and the Aftermath of Mental Fog

  • Joe shares his challenging experience with hot yoga and its effects on his cognitive abilities post-session.
  • Despite the mental drain post-yoga, Joe acknowledges the overall health benefits of incorporating yoga into his routine.
  • He humorously discusses his physical limitations during intense yoga, leading to dizziness and the feeling of being '15% stupider'.
• 00:53:34

  Joe Rogan and Nick Discuss the Candid Reality of Network Executives and Content Creation

  • The conversation shifts to the pressure faced by network executives, including their tendency to rely on stimulants like Adderall.
  • They reflect on Joe's past show 'Typical Rick' and its cancellation, along with a failed proposal for a new show involving assassins.
  • The dialogue explores themes of content creation, the absurdity of executive decisions, and the overall entertainment industry dynamics.
• 00:59:29

  Joe Rogan and Simon Rex Discuss the Challenges of Comedy in Corporate Hollywood

  • Joe Rogan reflects on his possibilities of quitting corporate America and creating content independently.
  • Simon Rex is highlighted as a comedic talent who could succeed by producing content on YouTube.
  • The conversation addresses frustrations with network executives and their decision-making processes regarding show development.
• 01:03:05

  South Park's Trey Parker Reflects on the Evolution of Animated Comedy and Audience Expectations

  • Discussion around the creative freedom Trey Parker had while developing South Park versus traditional network constraints.
  • The evolution of iconic shows such as Seinfeld and Friends shows the gradual establishment of character dynamics.
  • Rogan and his guest share their love for animated movies, including the Despicable Me series and the unique storytelling of Babe: Pig in the City.
• 01:13:47

  Joe Rogan Explores the Evolution from Wolves to Adorable Bulldogs

  • Discussion about the transformation of wolves into modern dog breeds, including French bulldogs.
  • Exploration of the peculiar changes in dog anatomy over thousands of years.
  • Joe shares a childhood story of being bitten by a dog, revealing his fear of canines.
• 01:56:12

  The Mind-Boggling Communication of Plants: Discoveries about Acacia Trees

  • Insight into how Acacia trees change their chemical makeup when threatened by herbivores.
  • Revelation of plants' capability to communicate and allocate resources through underground networks.
  • Discussion on the emerging understanding of plant consciousness and its implications for human interaction.
• 01:13:47

  Mark and the Peaches: A Hilarious Discourse on Plant Communication and Genetically Modified Fruits

  • Mark humorously speculates about the hidden language of plants and their attempts to communicate with humans.
  • The conversation weaves through the enticing nature of peaches, questioning whether they have evolved to entice humans into eating them for seed distribution.
  • Discussion reveals the implications of human intervention in agriculture, particularly through companies like Monsanto, affecting the natural sweetness of fruits.
• 01:56:12

  Nick Swartzen's Epic Performance and Bizarre Encounter with Furries at a UFC Event

  • Nick Swartzen recounts a chaotic performance in Florida, where audience members engaged in a fistfight amidst vomit in the bathroom.
  • He shares his disdain for musicals, linking it to a past experience with 'Cats' and how it shaped his views.
  • Briefly touches on an overlapping event with a furry convention during his UFC weigh-ins, highlighting the absurdity of the situation.
• 01:13:47

  Furry Conundrum: UFC Staff Experiences the Bizarre Furry Convention in Pittsburgh

  • UFC staff recounts their odd experiences at a furry convention filled with attendees dressed as animals.
  • Unique requests from furry attendees include a bizarre desire for a litter box in the hotel lobby.
  • Discussions arise about the lifestyle choices and aspirations of those identifying as furries, including childhood fantasies.
• 01:56:12

  From Beastmaster to Furry Spirit Animals: Comedy Duo Reflects on Whimsical Encounters

  • The conversation shifts to nostalgia around childhood shows like 'Beastmaster' and 'Laserblast' as the hosts explore their inner animal spirit.
  • A humorous debate ensues about which animal each person would be, with references to personal experiences with squirrels.
  • The hosts plan a future movie night revolving around 'Laserblast,' emphasizing the charm of outdated special effects.
• 01:13:47

  Hawk McGeddon: The Neighborhood Bird Wars and Ethan Hawke's Predatory Vibes

  • Discussion on a peculiar increase in hawk activity in the neighborhood, including attempts to attack chickens.
  • Conversation revolves around the predatory behavior of hawks, leading to speculation about bird gang wars.
  • A humorous reference to actor Ethan Hawke and the predatory nature of birds, drawing a lighthearted comparison.
• 01:56:12

  Jamie Foxx's Rise: The Ambiguous Names and Hilarious Moments of 'In Living Color'

  • Jamie Foxx's clever name change to gain popularity in comedy circuits, focusing on his talent in multiple entertainment fields.
  • Recollections of iconic sketches from 'In Living Color', highlighting characters like Fire Marshal Bill and Ugly Wanda.
  • Discussion on Jennifer Lopez's breakthrough in the show as a fly girl and her connection to the popularization of big booties in pop culture.
• 01:13:47

  Joe Rogan Discusses Cosmetic Surgery Trends with Iggy Azalea's Influence

  • Joe Rogan and his guest analyze the rising trend of cosmetic surgery among celebrities, referencing Iggy Azalea.
  • Discussion includes personal experiences with friends who have undergone significant plastic surgeries.
  • The conversation touches on the cultural implications of beauty standards, particularly in different nations like Korea.
• 02:23:18

  Rogan's Take on the Remake of 'The Thing' and Cinematic Critiques

  • Joe Rogan reviews the original and remake of 'The Thing,' expressing admiration for its creativity and effects.
  • He debates contemporary movie qualities compared to serialized television, citing shows like 'House of Cards' and 'Game of Thrones'.
  • Rogan discusses the challenges filmmakers face in storytelling due to time constraints and audience expectations.
• 01:13:47

  Comedic Encounters and Career Reflections with Daniel Day-Lewis and Jurassic Park Actors

  • Discussion on personal opinions about the movies 'Prometheus' and 'Jurassic Park', highlighting how actors' careers are perceived post-success.
  • Insight into the challenges actors face when watching movies critically, especially amongst director friends.
  • Playful banter on the following career trajectories of actors like Daniel Day-Lewis and others after blockbuster films.
• 01:30:50

  Altitude Sickness and Shared Experiences with Ben O'Brien During Extreme Conditions

  • A personal story of altitude sickness and dehydration experienced during a Tahoe show, leading to hallucinations after prolonged wakefulness.
  • Mention of fellow comedian Ben O'Brien's similar experiences with hallucinations while suffering from altitude sickness in Nepal.
  • Reflections on the challenges of filming and comedic storytelling amid personal and professional struggles.
• 01:13:47

  Joey Diaz and the Pursuit of a Healthier Life: Veganism and Dietary Changes

  • Joey Diaz shares his experience about quitting dairy for eight years and how it significantly improved his health.
  • The discussion revolves around diet fascination, including the potential benefits of veganism and alternatives like almond and goat's milk.
  • Joey's interest in ethical eating leads to a conversation about sustainable seafood like mollusks and the health benefits thereof.
• 01:56:12

  Diet Changes and Drinking Habits: Insights from a Party-Friendly Approach

  • The speakers reflect on the misconceptions surrounding sodium intake and its impact on health.
  • One speaker reveals their experience with sardines and traces of arsenic, emphasizing the importance of sourcing food responsibly.
  • The conversation transitions into a light-hearted discussion about enjoying drinking culture while maintaining a balance with health and dietary choices.
• 01:48:36

  Friendship Fallouts: The Drama Between Nick and His Ex-Roommate

  • Nick recounts losing his best friend due to a misunderstanding involving his friend's ex-girlfriend.
  • The friend became upset when Nick attended a movie night with the ex, leading to a fallout that hasn't resolved for over a year.
  • The conversation explores how jealousy and alcohol can exacerbate conflict in relationships.
• 01:56:12

  Donken Trussell: The Cult Leader of Comedy and His Wild Acts

  • Nick discusses his collaborator Donken Trussell's unique comedic style and live performances.
  • Donken's creative sketches often push boundaries, leaving Nick both impressed and bewildered.
  • Donken's recent move to Brooklyn has enhanced his comedy presence, with fans likening him to a cult leader.