This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von

JD Vance, a U.S. Senator from Ohio and author of 'Hillbilly Elegy,' shares insights about his recent nomination as Donald Trump’s running mate. He discusses how his family's history with addiction has shaped his views and highlights the dire fentanyl crisis gripping the nation. Vance reflects on intense Ohio State vs. Michigan rivalries and the emotional weight of sports in his life. He also delves into the complexities of navigating public life, trust issues due to his upbringing, and the urgent need for transparency in healthcare.

Samantha Martin is an animal trainer and cat advocate best known for founding The Amazing Acro-Cats, a troupe of talented felines. In this engaging conversation, she shares the challenges and joys of touring with cats, revealing how she transitioned from training rats to working with rescue cats. Samantha offers insights into the unique quirks of feline personalities, the innovative training techniques she employs, and the emotional bonds she forms with her performers. She even gives a glimpse of live antics from her furry cast!

Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and author focused on trauma and addiction, shares insights from his book, "The Myth of Normal." He discusses the profound impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships and the epidemic of loneliness in our culture. Maté highlights the healing potential of plant medicine like ayahuasca and emphasizes the importance of emotional safety for recovery. The conversation also touches on the need for communal support and authenticity in navigating personal growth and trauma.

Miranda Lambert, a Grammy-winning country singer known for hits like "The House That Built Me," joins Theo to reflect on her journey from local rodeos to country music stardom. She shares the emotional story behind her iconic songs and amusing anecdotes about her friendship with Toby Keith. The conversation takes a personal turn as she discusses her unique relationship with her NYPD husband and the transformative power of equine therapy. Lambert's experiences highlight the blend of nostalgia and newfound challenges in her evolving career.

Sean O'Brien, General President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and a fourth-generation Teamster, passionately discusses his commitment to workers' rights. He shares insights on the union's pivotal role in American labor, touching on the challenges posed by modern corporations like Amazon. O'Brien also reflects on a viral encounter with Senator Mullin and why the Teamsters chose to abstain from endorsing a presidential candidate. Their conversation also hints at the potential of a standard 32-hour work week, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for fair labor practices.

Joe Gatto, the comedic genius from "Impractical Jokers", dives into his new special, "Messing With People", sharing the highs and lows of stand-up life. He humorously discusses the chaos of letting eight dogs sleep in his bed and fondly reminisces about high school memories. The chat includes a whimsical take on alligators in Asheville and the creative NYC initiative for controlling the rat population with contraceptives. With laughter as their guide, Joe and Theo celebrate the joy of connecting through comedy and the quirks of pet ownership.

Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn, the famed duo behind hits like "Neon Moon," share their journey in country music. They reminisce about their early struggles and bond over memorable moments with Johnny Cash. The legends discuss life on the road, filled with hilarious tour anecdotes and the unique camaraderie they share. They also dive into their upcoming album "Reboot 2" and the creative process behind it, blending humor and insight as they navigate the challenges of fame and friendship in the industry.

Mark Cuban, billionaire entrepreneur and media personality best known for owning the Dallas Mavericks and his role on 'Shark Tank,' joins to share his thoughts on politics, touching upon his support for Kamala Harris and critiques of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. He offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, reflecting on luck's role in success. Cuban also discusses the shifting dynamics of wealth and relationships, the future of cryptocurrency, and covers the importance of healthcare transparency and innovation.

Dr. Tara Swart, a renowned neuroscientist and author, discusses how neuroscience can enhance mental and physical performance. She shares practical stress-reduction techniques and insights into overcoming past trauma through neuroplasticity. The conversation covers the quirks of sleep, the impact of relationships on stress, and even the power of co-sleeping for emotional bonds. They also explore manifestation, the significance of genuine connections, and how modern challenges shape identity and relationships in a post-pandemic world.

Kevin Smith, acclaimed filmmaker known for classics like Clerks and his latest film, The 4:30 Movie, joins Theo Von for a lively chat. They delve into Smith's filmmaking journey and the comedic evolution of podcasting, sharing hilarious anecdotes and insights. Smith reflects on life after a heart attack, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in storytelling. The conversation also touches on navigating the indie film landscape and personal growth, all wrapped in light-hearted banter that highlights the joys and challenges of creativity.