Arnold Schwarzenegger and Marc Maron discuss their differing approaches to life's challenges, generational change, and being useful. They also talk about bodybuilding, James Cameron's vegan advice, and Arnold's rivalry-slash-friendship with Sylvester Stallone.
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Quick takeaways
Arnold Schwarzenegger used provocative statements to gain media attention and popularize bodybuilding.
Schwarzenegger's interest in politics was sparked by his relationship with Maria Shriver and his belief in working across the aisle.
Arnold Schwarzenegger advocates for bipartisan collaboration in addressing climate change and highlights California's success in embracing renewable energy.
Deep dives
Growing up with a clear vision
Arnold Schwarzenegger had a clear vision of becoming a bodybuilding champion and Mr. Universe. His drive and discipline led him to chase that goal, even when others didn't take bodybuilding seriously.
Using humor to get attention
To gain media attention for bodybuilding, Schwarzenegger made outrageous statements like comparing the pump in his muscles to orgasm. These provocative remarks helped him get media coverage and popularize bodybuilding.
Transitioning into politics
Schwarzenegger's interest in politics began when he started dating Maria Shriver and was exposed to political discussions with her family. He learned about policy-making, problem-solving, and the potential to make a positive impact on society.
Political leanings and promoting inclusion
Schwarzenegger identified as a republican but had more centrist and socially progressive views. He believed in equality, inclusion, and working with the other side to find common ground and build a better society.
Arnold's commitment to inclusivity and education
Arnold Schwarzenegger shares how his upbringing and mentorship from a Jewish man taught him the importance of inclusivity and education. Despite growing up in a time of war and division, Arnold's mentor emphasized the need for intelligence and education as a means of empowerment for the Jewish community. This experience shaped Arnold's belief in inclusivity and acceptance, which he later observed in the bodybuilding world where individuals from diverse backgrounds competed on an equal stage.
Arnold's advocacy for clean energy and environmental responsibility
Arnold Schwarzenegger discusses his dedication to addressing climate change and pollution. As the former governor of California, Arnold highlights the success of renewable energy initiatives in the state, such as solar panel installation and the development of electric car manufacturer Tesla. He emphasizes the need for bipartisan collaboration, with Democrats supporting renewable energy and Republicans favoring nuclear power. Arnold counters the misconception that transitioning to green energy will harm the economy, citing California as an example of how embracing clean technology can simultaneously create jobs and reduce pollution.
Arnold Schwarzenegger likes to focus on life’s victories. That makes for an interesting contrast with Marc, a self-described “obstacle guy.” Arnold and Marc find that their differing approaches to taking on the world make for good conversation about generational change, political awakenings and being useful, which is the subject of Arnold’s new book. They also discuss bodybuilding, James Cameron’s vegan advice, and Arnold’s rivalry-slash-friendship with Sylvester Stallone.