The Joe Rogan Experience

John Reeves, an Alaskan gold miner and star of 'Goldfathers' and 'Boneyard Alaska,' shares his thrilling adventures in the pursuit of gold. He recounts the extraordinary discovery of Ice Age animal remains beneath the permafrost, including mammoth tusks. Engaging anecdotes about wildlife encounters, from quirky pelicans to grizzly bears, bring humor to his tales. Reeves also dives into the rich geological history of Alaska and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the commercial use of mammoth ivory, painting a vivid portrait of frontier life.

Fedor Gorst, a professional pool player renowned for his titles at the World Nine-Ball Championship and U.S. Open, shares insights from his unique journey. He explores the impact of geopolitical factors on the pool scene, particularly the ban on Russian players. Gorst discusses the intricate techniques and personal styles that define gameplay, along with the psychological challenges of competition. He also delves into the gritty world of high-stakes gambling in billiards, highlighting the culture, risks, and camaraderie of hustling in the sport.

Jon Bernthal, an actor recognized for his roles in "The Walking Dead" and "The Punisher," shares captivating insights on societal issues and personal growth. He explores the parallels between historical events and today’s political violence, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in bridging societal divides. Bernthal reflects on his transformative journey in acting, the complexities of freedom in modern narratives, and the role of empathy in overcoming challenges. His experiences highlight the profound impact of storytelling and personal redemption.

Brian Simpson, a talented stand-up comic and host of "BS with Brian Simpson," shares his comedic journey and the demanding art of stand-up. He discusses the transformative power of consistent practice in comedy, drawing parallels to combat sports. The conversation humorously navigates the complexities of fame, dating dynamics in the adult industry, and the unique pressures faced by public figures. They even dive into light-hearted anecdotes about celebrity encounters and their perspectives on morality in today's tech-driven world.

Siddharth Kara, an expert on modern slavery and author of "Cobalt Red," highlights the shocking truths behind cobalt mining in the Congo. He exposes the brutal realities of child labor, exploitation, and human rights abuses tied to the tech industry’s demand for cobalt. Kara emphasizes the urgent need for corporate accountability and ethical sourcing as mining communities face intimidation and environmental destruction. He advocates for greater awareness and calls for innovation towards cobalt-free technologies to address these grave issues.

Brian Redban, a comedian and producer known for co-hosting 'Kill Tony' and founding the Deathsquad network, engages in a lively conversation. They humorously analyze the ethics of zoos and the future of wildlife conservation. The discussion shifts to the complexities of gender identity, the nostalgia of LA hangout spots, and the implications of AI in art. Redban also shares insights on comedy's evolution and personal experiences while reminiscing about iconic dining experiences. This blend of humor and serious topics creates an entertaining yet thought-provoking dialogue.

Dive into the adventurous world of conservation and the challenges of hunting as experts discuss the jaguar recovery efforts in North America and the complexities of deer hunting culture. Personal anecdotes reveal the emotional toll of trophy hunting and the obsessive nature surrounding it. The conversation touches on the balance of ethical hunting practices against the backdrop of ecological management. Listeners also explore the mental aspects of high-pressure shooting, reflecting on the intersections of nature, creativity, and personal growth.

Mark Boal, a distinguished screenwriter and journalist famed for films like 'The Hurt Locker' and 'Zero Dark Thirty,' discusses the challenges of authenticity in storytelling amid a commercialized media landscape. He explores the ethical dilemmas filmmakers face, particularly in war narratives. The conversation also delves into the complexities of human relationships, rethinking masculinity in media, and the impact of long-form storytelling on character development. Boal introduces his new series 'Echo 3,' emphasizing themes of family, morality, and innovative narrative structures.

Mark Laita, an acclaimed photographer and documentarian, delves into the heartbreaking realities faced by marginalized individuals in American society. He discusses the emotional challenges of his work on 'Soft White Underbelly,' capturing raw stories of homelessness, addiction, and trauma. Laita shares insights on policing, empathy's transformative power, and the intertwined nature of creativity and self-destruction. He also navigates complex societal issues such as censorship on YouTube and the human mind's intricacies, offering a poignant look into resilience and understanding.

Stavros Halkias, a stand-up comic known for his special "Live at the Lodge Room" and host of "Stavvy's World," dives into the quirks of life in Los Angeles and the absurdities of celebrity culture. He humorously critiques social media's impact on body image and relationships, while sharing wild anecdotes about UFC legends and ancient sports rituals. From the complexities of higher education to the hilarious discussion on the dangers of staph infections in wrestling, Stavros keeps the conversation lively, insightful, and full of laughs.