Bryan Callen

Date: 2016-09-20 | Duration: 2h 29m

Category: Comedy

Episode Overview

Bryan Callen opens the conversation by recounting a vivid memory of being at the Gotham Comedy Club during the Chelsea bombing, describing the chaos and surreal experience of running toward danger rather than away. This story sets the tone for a broader discussion on resilience, human behavior in crises, and how trauma can shape artistic expression, referencing figures like Picasso. Callen and Rogan also explore the complexities of humor and social commentary, particularly around topics like objectification and political correctness, debating how comedy intersects with evolving cultural norms. The conversation shifts into reflections on history and geopolitics, touching on military dictatorships in Latin America, the nature of leadership, and the intricacies of global conflicts, including the Middle East and Russia. Callen offers insights into the randomness of life and the importance of perspective amid chaos. Later, the discussion moves to nature and survival, with detailed anecdotes about hunting, wildlife management, and living off the land, highlighting the contrast between modern convenience and primal instincts. Throughout the episode, Callen and Rogan weave personal stories with philosophical musings on civilization, progress, and the human condition, creating a layered dialogue that balances humor, seriousness, and curiosity about the world’s complexities.

About Bryan Callen

Bryan Callen is a multifaceted comedian, actor, and podcast host known for his sharp wit and engaging storytelling. With a career spanning over two decades, he gained prominence as one of the original cast members of "MADtv" and has made notable appearances in films such as "The Hangover" series and "Bad Company." In addition to his acting, Callen is also a popular podcaster, co-hosting "The Fighter and the Kid," where he combines humor with insightful discussions on life, sports, and personal development. His ability to connect with audiences through humor and authenticity makes him a captivating guest, as showcased in his appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience, where he shares his unique perspectives on comedy, culture, and personal growth.

Key Moments

– Comedy
– Terrorism
– 9/11 Attacks
– Artistic Expression
– Gender and Identity
– Mixed Martial Arts
– Wildlife and Ecology
– Hunting
– Food and Nutrition
– Political Leadership
– Conspiracy Theories
– Climate Science
– Neuroscience
– History
– Media and Journalism
– Technology
– Social Behavior
– Drug Legalization
– Cultural Criticism
0:00:00 – Bryan Callen's Terrorist Survivor story begins
0:01:13 – Description of bomb explosion and immediate reaction
0:04:10 – Running toward the explosion, unusual behavior explained
0:06:06 – Discussion of studies and books on trauma responses
0:09:25 – Bryan Callen goes on stage despite bomb threat
0:10:49 – Artistic expression influenced by life hardships
0:14:32 – Debate on objectification and comedy
0:20:30 – Gender dynamics in humor and reactions
0:33:01 – Reflection on human nature and terrorism
0:36:44 – Parenting perspectives and childhood trauma
0:41:06 – Discussion on Bedouin culture and milk sources
0:43:38 – Ecology of wolves and coyotes in the wild
0:51:36 – Eating unusual animal parts and culinary experiences
0:56:23 – Hunting practices and wildlife management
1:01:02 – Venison preference and water safety discussion
1:06:53 – Trust in institutions and political concerns
1:08:45 – Michael Shermer interview and skepticism
1:15:07 – Jackson Pollock and fractal art analysis
1:19:50 – World Trade Center structure and engineering marvel
1:23:08 – 9/11 conspiracy theories and agendas
1:30:16 – Historical perspective on Native American treatment
1:31:05 – MMA's global growth and cultural impact
1:33:30 – Humor dissection and societal softness critique
1:36:44 – Drug cultivation and legalization debates
1:42:40 – Russian leadership and geopolitical commentary
1:48:56 – Donald Trump's business background and politics
1:51:45 – Political polarization and social stereotypes
1:56:08 – Evolving perception of reality and truth
2:00:10 – Antibiotics and germ theory development
2:04:23 – Universe as an expanding structure
2:06:52 – Art of learning and human interaction
2:09:42 – Acting complexity in portraying villains
2:12:08 – Spokesperson representation and progress critique
2:14:51 – Political accountability and email controversies
2:18:10 – National security and war machine discussion
2:21:31 – Caitlyn Jenner and gender identity conversation
2:23:15 – Critique of societal labels and identity politics

Transcript Excerpt

Starting point is 00:00:00 Who won Brian Callen's Terrorist Survivor? Starting point is 00:00:26 because I was at the Gotham Comedy Club, 208, I think West 23rd, Starting point is 00:00:45 I was about to go on stage, and I was with Jimmy Burke, the national treasure that is Jimmy Burke. Starting point is 00:01:13 And that sickening sound where you know it's a bomb. Starting point is 00:01:22 Well, you did when you were a kid, right? Starting point is 00:01:36 It was so loud that we fell down on the ground. Starting point is 00:01:54 Yes. Starting point is 00:02:22 So I heard loud noises as a kid very loud noises but this Starting point is 00:02:54 Yeah. Starting point is 00:03:26 saw smoke and you could smell this sort of um like a burning thing you know it smelled like smoke Starting point is 00:03:48 yeah Starting point is 00:03:56 all encompassing Starting point is 00:04:03 I had to Starting point is 00:04:10 What was really bizarre was that we were running toward it. Starting point is 00:04:39 So you you create a small explosion get people to run toward the bigger explosion Starting point is 00:05:11 in clothing and just beautiful people and and i thought to myself i'm gonna get out of here Starting point is 00:05:42 No. Starting point is 00:06:06 Well, the answer is there are two books that were – this has been studied. Starting point is 00:06:50 Why can't I see any women out? Starting point is 00:07:15 somebody's running at you screaming with their eyes open and their hands up that they're probably Starting point is 00:07:52 I'm on a caffeine high. Starting point is 00:08:12 back inside and they go you're on and now i go but there was a bomb and they go what and i said Starting point is 00:08:48 He said, let me get them off stage. Starting point is 00:09:06 And then we left. Starting point is 00:09:25 And it was a full house. And I just said, you got to like I was nervous? He said, nope, you just went right into pro mode. You know, I've been doing it so long. ...

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Frequently asked about this episode

Who was the guest on Joe Rogan Experience #848?

Bryan Callen was the guest on JRE #848. This page includes the episode overview, topics discussed, and related resources.

What topics were discussed on JRE #848?

On Joe Rogan Experience #848 with Bryan Callen, topics include Terrorism, 9/11 Attacks, Artistic Expression, and Gender and Identity.

Where can I read the transcript for JRE #848?

The full searchable transcript for Joe Rogan Experience #848 with Bryan Callen is available on this page, along with key topics and timestamps.