Detox Retox with Tom Schwartz: Episode Summary

Episode Title: It’s A Rave In Downtown LA
Release Date: July 22, 2025
Host: Tom Schwartz
Podcast: PodcastOne

1. Introduction to Rave Culture and PLUR

The episode kicks off with Tom Schwartz welcoming listeners to the weekly retox session. The focus quickly shifts to the vibrant world of rave culture, emphasizing the foundational principles of PLUR—Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. The Rave Culture Advocate passionately describes raves as sanctuaries where time stands still, and attendees immerse themselves in pure, unfiltered joy.

“There’s a place where time doesn’t exist... It’s kind of like a Love Island.”
[01:13] Rave Culture Advocate

2. Historical Context: Interview with Frankie Bones

A pivotal moment in the episode features an insightful interview with Frankie Bones, hailed as the godfather of American rave culture. Frankie delves into the origins of PLUR, tracing its evolution from the late 1980s to its establishment in the early '90s.

“In 1990, we designed something called PLUR—the Peace, Love, Unity, Respect movement.”
[06:00] Frankie Bones

He elaborates on how PLUR became a cornerstone of rave culture, fostering an environment of inclusivity and mutual respect. Frankie reflects on the pivotal events that solidified these values, ensuring that raves remained safe and welcoming for all participants.

“From 90 to 93, it was PLUR. And the night the fight broke out in 1993, the R was added as the S.P.E.C...”
[06:45] Frankie Bones

3. First-Hand Rave Experiences: Julian and David's First Rave

Transitioning from history to personal narrative, Julian Lucas and David Paul recount their inaugural experiences attending an underground rave in Downtown LA. Julian expresses his initial nervousness, highlighting the universal apprehension that newcomers often feel.

“I’ve never been to a Proper Los Angeles underground rave. So, yeah, I’m a little nervous.”
[08:40] Julian Lucas

His brother, Rob, complements this with enthusiasm:

“I’m excited, I’m pumped up. I’m ready for the music, the lights...”
[09:20] Rob

4. The Inclusive and Safe Atmosphere of Modern Raves

David Paul shares his observations from the rave, dispelling common stereotypes about chaos and danger. He emphasizes the PLUR ethos that permeates the event, fostering a sense of safety and community.

“I just learned about this philosophy in rave culture called PLUR. I felt all that the moment I walked in.”
[12:19] David Paul

Tom Schwartz echoes this sentiment, discussing the inclusive nature of raves where professionals from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate music and unity.

“Everybody’s very respectful. People are just there to like, have a good time, commingle, coexist.”
[14:15] Tom Schwartz

5. The Importance of Music and Community

The conversation delves into the transformative power of music within the rave scene. David highlights how the absence of phones allowed attendees to fully engage with the experience, fostering genuine connections.

“I didn’t see a cell phone the whole time I was at this concert, and I thought that was a vibe.”
[17:19] David Paul

Tom reflects on the healing nature of music and its ability to bring people together, creating profound personal and communal experiences.

“Music is healing, man. It really is on so many levels.”
[19:16] Tom Schwartz

6. Advice for New Attendees

Towards the end of the episode, Tom and David offer heartfelt advice for those considering their first rave. They encourage openness, letting go of judgments, and embracing the moment.

“Go and experience it and don’t have any expectations. Just keep an open mind.”
[20:42] Tom Schwartz

“Dance like you want to dance. And judgment zone.”
[21:30] David Paul

7. Reflections and Conclusion

The episode concludes with reflections on the beauty and unity experienced at the rave. Julian shares his lingering impressions of the event, celebrating the sense of oneness and the freedom to express oneself fully.

“There was a sense of unity and just everyone kind of moving as one.”
[22:26] Julian Lucas

Tom Schwartz wraps up the session with a final affirmation of the transformative power of raves and the essential role of PLUR in maintaining their positive environment.

“Retoxification complete.”
[26:22] Tom Schwartz

Key Takeaways

• PLUR is the foundational ethos of rave culture, promoting Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect.
• Frankie Bones provides historical insights into the evolution of PLUR and its significance in establishing safe, inclusive rave environments.
• Personal narratives from Julian and David illustrate the welcoming and transformative nature of modern raves.
• The absence of phones at raves fosters genuine connections and deepens the communal experience.
• Music within the rave scene serves as a healing force, uniting diverse individuals in shared euphoria.
• Newcomers are encouraged to approach raves with an open mind, free from judgment, to fully embrace the experience.

Notable Quotes

• “There’s a sense of oneness, one love. This isn't the Matrix. This is PLUR.”
  [03:59] Rave Culture Advocate

• “It was something special. I felt like it was magical.”
  [14:15] David Paul

• “Peace, Love, Unity is a track. You can look this up on YouTube.”
  [08:40] Frankie Bones

This episode of Detox Retox with Tom Schwartz offers an immersive exploration into the heart of rave culture, blending historical context with personal experiences to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of PLUR and the unifying power of music.