Ari Shaffir

Date: 2012-03-19 | Duration: 2h 23m

Episode Overview

Ari Shaffir joins Joe Rogan for a wide-ranging conversation that touches on the nuances of cannabis use in martial arts, the challenges of stand-up comedy, and reflections on history and culture. They discuss how marijuana can enhance flow states in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, referencing Eddie Bravo’s approach, while acknowledging it’s not for everyone. Ari shares candid insights into the mental and physical demands of performing comedy, describing the struggle of crafting material and the importance of being in shape to deliver the best show. He also recounts memorable moments from his career, including interactions with fellow comedians and the energy required to connect with an audience. The episode delves into historical and cultural topics, with Ari and Joe exploring Jewish traditions, religious customs, and mystical texts like the Zohar. They touch on the persistence of ancient beliefs and how they shape identity and behavior today. The conversation also veers into technology and futurism, speculating on human longevity, cloning, and the evolution of cars, blending humor with thoughtful commentary. Throughout, Ari’s sharp wit and storytelling shine, offering listeners a mix of humor, personal anecdotes, and provocative ideas that highlight his unique perspective on life, comedy, and society.

About Ari Shaffir

Ari Shaffir is a comedian and podcaster best known for hosting "Ari Shaffir's Skeptic Tank," a long-running podcast where he explores unconventional topics ranging from drug policy reform to corporate ethics. He recently completed a seven-month extended travel through South America, during which he developed his storytelling special "The End" and continued producing content remotely from exotic locations. Shaffir is known for his willingness to tackle controversial subjects and his independence from traditional media gatekeeping, having previously hosted "This Is Not Happening" on Comedy Central.

Key Moments

– Mixed Martial Arts
– Cannabis Effects
– Comedy Performance
– Military Veterans
– Mental Health
– Automotive Culture
– Religious Beliefs
– Conspiracy Theories
– Stand-up Comedy
– Substance Use
– Podcasting
– Science Fiction
– Suicide Prevention
– Jewish Mysticism
– Social Media
– Traumatic Brain Injury
– Stem Cell Research
– Comedy Specials
– Public Events
– Personal Relationships
0:00:00 – Introduction and opening remarks
0:01:05 – Discussion on positive drug test metabolite
0:02:35 – Cannabis use in training and flow state
0:04:45 – Manipulating bodies in jiu-jitsu explained
0:05:57 – Promotion of upcoming event at Tabernacle
0:09:51 – Technological advancements surpassing steroids
0:12:32 – Population explosion and nature's control
0:14:22 – Inhalation risks of cigar leaves
0:16:18 – Feeding personal demons and addiction
0:20:47 – Energy and presence on stage
0:23:38 – Discussion on euthanasia and assisted death
0:25:02 – Online controversies and personal attacks
0:30:17 – Friendship dynamics and language boundaries
0:33:46 – Feelings about Sunday and motivation
0:35:17 – Process of refining comedy material
0:39:05 – Challenges of writing comedy routines
0:41:09 – Importance of delivering a good show
0:42:34 – Announcement of Shroomfest event dates
0:47:56 – Concerns about wealthy parents and kids
0:50:43 – Discussion on wardrobe choices and identity
0:53:13 – Future car designs and hybrid opinions
0:56:33 – Taliban control of Afghanistan's lithium reserves
0:58:01 – Profile of a fallen military hero
1:00:05 – Military suicide statistics discussed
1:02:29 – MDMA therapy for trauma recovery
1:04:01 – Risks of multiple concussions in sports
1:05:24 – Video game performance on substances
1:07:54 – Sexual habits and clothing humor
1:10:41 – Homelessness and generational challenges
1:13:13 – Need to record a comedy album
1:14:07 – AIDS and historical figures
1:16:14 – Biblical references and physical meekness
1:17:41 – Malaria research and scientific institutions
1:19:30 – Favorite historical presidents in film
1:21:36 – Advanced herpes strains explained
1:22:11 – Obama conspiracy theories discussed
1:26:05 – Presidential dating and relationships
1:29:00 – Religious views on birth control
1:33:02 – Explanation of Tabernacle and its meaning
1:35:06 – Behind the scenes of industry dealings
1:39:54 – Shooting guns and American pastimes
1:42:20 – Discussion of the film Naked City
1:45:09 – Historical Jewish migration to Africa
1:49:12 – Religious persecution and forced conversions
1:52:26 – Mystical Jewish texts and demon stories
1:57:48 – Ethical concerns about stem cell research
2:00:33 – Discussion of Alien prequel movie
2:03:39 – Film industry executive challenges
2:06:24 – Expressing discomfort and social anxiety
2:08:04 – Drunk driving experiences and dangers
2:11:13 – Closing remarks and upcoming show dates
2:18:24 – Promotion of April 20th comedy special
2:19:54 – Farewell and episode conclusion

Transcript Excerpt

Starting point is 00:00:00 But Joe Rogan, ready to break shit down. Starting point is 00:00:26 for for um for uh going against the suspension we're talking ill of it really yeah well if folks Starting point is 00:01:05 The metabolite that he tested positive for Starting point is 00:01:20 until I talk to Todd McCormick. Starting point is 00:01:50 everything just because the fact that he's about to enter into a cage fight it might overwhelm him Starting point is 00:02:35 and they smoke weed and train you know and look i always go back to eddie bravo you know because Starting point is 00:02:56 It puts you in the flow better. Starting point is 00:03:18 and it's it's what it does when you have the family this is by the way it's not for everybody Starting point is 00:03:55 like in jiu-jitsu like i mean you watch a movie stoned and it you might think it's awesome the Starting point is 00:04:17 What you're saying is that you would make a big mistake. Starting point is 00:04:45 you you you learn how to manipulate people's bodies that that all of a sudden becomes a way Starting point is 00:05:22 get mounted or something like that you know you're not like in a competition where it's for your life whereas if you were in a fight you Starting point is 00:05:57 you go to my twitter feed or go to joe rogan.net there's a link for it it's we're at the tabernacle Starting point is 00:06:14 I'm psyched to do it. Starting point is 00:06:33 that's everyone knows what one of those is Starting point is 00:06:46 What is Tabernacle? Starting point is 00:06:59 It's like some name. Starting point is 00:07:06 The tabernacle. It's Hebrew, bro. Starting point is 00:07:22 how that got to Atlanta. Is there Starting point is 00:07:48 Let's probably just do that. Starting point is 00:08:00 Let's just get in there. Starting point is 00:08:28 Doug Benson fans showing. Starting point is 00:08:42 I definitely had Red Band 420 back in 2012 bro yeah no i never i never did Starting point is 00:09:11 No. Sta...

More Episodes

Frequently asked about this episode

Who was the guest on Joe Rogan Experience #197?

Ari Shaffir was the guest on JRE #197. This page includes the episode overview, topics discussed, and related resources.

What topics were discussed on JRE #197?

On Joe Rogan Experience #197 with Ari Shaffir, topics include Mixed Martial Arts, Cannabis Effects, Comedy Performance, and Military Veterans.

Where can I read the transcript for JRE #197?

The full searchable transcript for Joe Rogan Experience #197 with Ari Shaffir is available on this page, along with key topics and timestamps.