Joe Rogan Experience Review Podcast - Episode 405: Review of Graham Hancock Et al.
Release Date: October 22, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 405 of the Joe Rogan Experience Review Podcast, hosts Adam Thorne and his co-host Todd delve deep into Graham Hancock's appearance on Joe Rogan's show. The discussion centers around Hancock's controversial theories on ancient civilizations, the ensuing debates with archaeologists like Flint Dibble and John Hoopes, and Hancock's new Netflix series, Ancient Apocalypse.

Graham Hancock's Appearance on Joe Rogan

Zach (Guest):
"When I look at Flint Dibble and I look at John Hoopes, the answer I come to is virtually zero." [00:28]
Zach criticizes prominent archaeologists Flint Dibble and John Hoopes for their dismissive stance toward Hancock's theories, questioning the value they've added to human knowledge.

The hosts express disappointment over the failed attempt to mediate between Hancock and Dibble on Rogan's podcast, describing the interaction as "pretty ugly" [02:40]. They had hoped Joe Rogan would serve as a solid mediator to foster constructive dialogue, but instead, tensions escalated.

Ancient Apocalypse on Netflix

Zach:
"I'm promoting his new season of Ancient Apocalypse on Netflix, which is excellent. I've watched almost all of it now." [02:50]
Hancock's Ancient Apocalypse is praised for maintaining the quality of its first season. The hosts appreciate how the series presents the most compelling theories and discoveries upfront, avoiding the common pitfall where subsequent seasons lack fresh content.

Zach highlights Hancock's investigative approach:
"It's really easy to pick up a book and read what's already published or already, like, theorized that's out there, but to like, basically turn it on its head and say, I'm going to see what else is out there that isn't been researched yet." [04:00]

Key Archaeological Discussions

Challenging Established Timelines

The conversation shifts to recent archaeological findings that support Hancock's claims of advanced ancient civilizations.

Todd:
"Gobekli Tepe was discovered and carbon dated to be that old. But the archaeology didn't really push back their time." [06:08]
This discovery aligns with Hancock's theories by suggesting that significant ancient structures predate previously established timelines, challenging mainstream archaeological consensus.

Zach:
"Human interactions from 25,000 years ago are happening, but there's still no integration into mainstream archaeology." [04:45]
He emphasizes the disconnect between groundbreaking discoveries and their acceptance within the academic community.

White Sands Footprints

Todd:
"The White Sands area in New Mexico ... preserved these footprints ... proves that they were around there like 25,000 years ago, possibly. That's much older than we thought." [14:25]
The hosts discuss the significance of human and mammoth footprints coexisting, which implies a much earlier presence of humans in the Americas than traditionally believed.

Zach:
"It was like a real vivid picture that he was painting... it's something we can't even imagine being a part of until you are there." [10:00]
Zach marvels at Hancock's ability to recreate ancient human life, making the past feel tangible and urgent for contemporary audiences.

Impact on Mainstream Archaeology

Todd:
"What he's been doing is looking at all these old sites for so long, writing about them, theorizing them, being shit on by archaeologists." [06:00]
He underscores the resistance Hancock faces from the archaeological community, which often dismisses unconventional theories without thorough examination.

Zach:
"They're trying to protect their timeline, which they've created, which is probably way off." [07:10]
This reveals a perceived rigidity within academia, where established timelines are defended to maintain scholarly consistency, potentially stifacing new insights.

Human Impact on Wildlife: Diane Boyd's Episode

Transitioning from ancient civilizations, the hosts review another significant episode featuring Diane Boyd, a wolf expert from Montana.

Zach:
"She talks about naming them and tracking their lives from beginning to end. She knows where they're born, where they've died." [43:50]
Diane Boyd's deep connection with wolves is highlighted, showcasing her dedication to conservation and the personal bonds she forms with these wild animals.

Challenges in Wolf Conservation

Todd:
"25% of them got killed outside of the park, outside of Yellowstone." [44:34]
The discussion covers the threats wolves face from hunting outside protected areas, emphasizing the fragility of conservation efforts.

Zach:
"Humans just have a big impact always." [38:20]
Both hosts agree on the profound and often detrimental impact humans have on wildlife, even in seemingly remote and protected environments.

Personal Encounters and Stories

The hosts share personal anecdotes about encounters with mountain lions, illustrating the unpredictable and dangerous nature of wildlife interactions.

Todd:
"It's almost like the idea of how the things that humans can do." [35:04]
Zach recounts a heartbreaking story of a wolf named the white lady, whose tragic encounter with a hunter underscores the ongoing conflict between conservation efforts and human aggression.

Philosophical Insights and Conclusions

The episode concludes with reflections on human curiosity, the pursuit of knowledge, and the ethical responsibilities that come with understanding both our past and our interactions with the natural world.

Zach:
"That's a total world. Again, like we can't even imagine being a part of until you are and be so interesting." [43:50]
He emphasizes the importance of immersive experiences in truly grasping the complexities of both ancient civilizations and modern wildlife conservation.

Todd:
"Animals really invigorate your life... the love of a pet is so special." [43:08]
The hosts touch upon the deep emotional connections humans can form with animals, advocating for greater empathy and protection of wildlife.

Notable Quotes

• Zach on Archaeological Contributions:
  "When I look at Flint Dibble and I look at John Hoopes, the answer I come to is virtually zero." [00:28]

• Todd on Hancock's Investigative Approach:
  "It's really easy to pick up a book and read what's already published or already, like, theorized that's out there, but to like, basically turn it on its head..." [04:00]

• Zach on Preservation Efforts:
  "They have a cabin out in the middle of nowhere... sometimes she's out there and she can just like, she just like gets this feeling that there's danger afoot." [30:29]

• Todd on Human Impact:
  "Humans just have a big impact always." [38:20]

Conclusion

Episode 405 of the Joe Rogan Experience Review Podcast offers a comprehensive analysis of Graham Hancock's contributions to our understanding of ancient civilizations and the ongoing debates within the archaeological community. Additionally, the episode sheds light on critical wildlife conservation issues through Diane Boyd's experiences, painting a vivid picture of humanity's dual role as both seekers of knowledge and stewards of the natural world. The hosts successfully navigate complex topics, providing listeners with insightful commentary and fostering a deeper appreciation for both ancient mysteries and contemporary environmental challenges.