Podcast Summary: The Joe Rogan Experience #2285 - Andrew Schulz

Release Date: March 6, 2025

In episode #2285 of "The Joe Rogan Experience," host Joe Rogan engages in a wide-ranging and in-depth conversation with comedian Andrew Schulz. The discussion traverses diverse topics, including psychedelics, the intricacies of the comedy world, political dynamics, health and wellness practices, technological theories, parenthood, and lifestyle choices. Below is a detailed summary of their conversation, structured into clear sections with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.

1. Psychedelics and Spirituality

Timestamp: 00:13 - 02:21

Joe initiates the conversation by referencing Oprah's upcoming episode on psychedelics, sparking a debate on the societal perception and usage of psychedelic substances like ayahuasca and mushrooms.

• Joe Rogan: "You don't do an episode on psychedelics unless you visited the Maya. Unless you got in there, you think." [00:17]

• Andrew Schulz: "I think people do really do experience that, but also there's a certain type of personality that wants to let you know that they're enlightened." [04:03]

They discuss the distinction between using ayahuasca as a means to claim higher spirituality versus casual mushroom use, emphasizing the perceived pretentiousness among certain users seeking instant "street cred" in the psychedelics community.

2. Comedy and Personal Growth

Timestamp: 02:21 - 25:47

The conversation shifts to the world of comedy, with Joe sharing insights about his friend Neil Brennan's experiences battling personal demons and Andrew reflecting on his own journey in stand-up.

• Joe Rogan: "Like, one way to get, like, instant street cred in the psychedelics world is say you do ayahuasca." [01:11]

• Andrew Schulz: "You say you took a heroic dose, you get points amongst the learned." [01:17]

They explore the importance of overcoming insecurities and failures, drawing parallels between martial arts discipline and comedy writing. Joe recounts his early struggles, emphasizing the need to let go of negative thoughts to succeed in comedy.

• Joe Rogan: "I realized I was like, oh, that's a bitch ass thought." [05:50]

Andrew shares his experiences of taking time off to reflect and develop new material, highlighting the significance of growth through breaks.

• Andrew Schulz: "I think taking time and thinking about it is really wise." [25:32]

3. Political Discussions and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Timestamp: 09:52 - 18:46

Joe and Andrew delve into the realm of politics, particularly focusing on DEI initiatives within corporate environments. They critique the superficial implementation of DEI, comparing it to historical practices like Jesse Jackson's Rainbow Coalition.

• Joe Rogan: "So what does straighten your business out mean? Well, make sure that you guys are on the right track." [10:03]

• Andrew Schulz: "But the country isn't merit-based in terms of where you're born. You didn't earn your birth spot, you didn't earn your family." [13:25]

They argue that DEI often becomes a "no-show job" within large corporations, leading to inefficiencies and disillusionment among employees who feel forced to conform to externally imposed identities.

4. Health, Wellness, and Fitness

Timestamp: 25:47 - 44:02

The discussion transitions to personal health practices, including the use of stem cells and sleep hygiene. Joe shares his regimen for maintaining physical health, emphasizing the connection between a healthy body and an effective mind.

• Joe Rogan: "I try to get at least seven [hours of sleep]." [50:51]

• Andrew Schulz: "My favorite poison is wine. I love poison. Great glass." [46:21]

They also touch upon the controversial topic of stem cell therapy, with Joe advocating for its efficacy in healing soft tissue injuries without the need for surgery.

• Joe Rogan: "He [his orthopedic surgeon] says, this tear is gone." [127:10]

5. Technology, Simulations, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Timestamp: 27:36 - 44:51

Joe introduces theoretical discussions about the nature of reality, contemplating whether our existence could be a sophisticated simulation. They debate the implications of such a theory, including the role of consciousness and the potential future advancements in AI.

• Joe Rogan: "I think it's really possible... The whole universe might be us interacting with something." [29:00]

• Andrew Schulz: "Elon said there's a 20% chance everything goes sideways, but an 80% chance it's an overall net good for humanity." [28:12]

This segment underscores the uncertainty surrounding technological progress and its ethical ramifications, especially concerning AI's integration into societal frameworks.

6. Parenthood and Personal Experiences

Timestamp: 157:03 - 171:33

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to parenthood. Andrew discusses the transformative impact of becoming a father, highlighting how it reshapes priorities, instills discipline, and fosters deeper empathy.

• Andrew Schulz: "It's the most incredible thing in the world and has transformed me." [159:44]

• Joe Rogan: "You got to let it change you." [158:55]

They explore the challenges and emotional struggles associated with infertility and IVF, advocating for broader acceptance and support systems for parents facing such issues.

• Andrew Schulz: "It's an incredibly embarrassing thing to talk about... but you’d rather talk about it on stage." [160:16]

Joe and Andrew emphasize the importance of family-oriented values and criticize societal stigmas surrounding parenthood and mental health.

7. Hunting and Lifestyle

Timestamp: 99:27 - 140:03

The duo delves into the outdoorsy lifestyle, particularly focusing on bow hunting. Joe recounts his experiences and techniques in bow hunting, stressing the importance of skill, patience, and ethical considerations in the process.

• Joe Rogan: "I shot an elk through the trees... it was magical." [131:56]

• Andrew Schulz: "It's a ride everywhere. Whirrs and clinks and clunks. So fun." [142:19]

They also discuss the physical and logistical challenges of hunting, such as carrying large game and the use of specialized equipment to ensure successful hunts.

• Joe Rogan: "The best way to do it in the backcountry is horse riding." [132:57]

8. Humor and Personal Anecdotes

Timestamp: 140:03 - 171:33

Throughout the podcast, humor intersperses serious discussions, with both Joe and Andrew sharing personal anecdotes and witty observations. They reflect on influential figures in comedy, such as Bill Hicks and Joey Diaz, illustrating how certain performances can redefine comedic boundaries.

• Joe Rogan: "Bill Hicks became this poet. Nobody wanted to be profound before that." [143:06]

• Andrew Schulz: "Comedy's the best job on earth for us." [155:58]

Their camaraderie and mutual respect shine through as they discuss the dynamics of hosting shows, supporting fellow comedians, and the communal aspects of the comedy scene.

9. Concluding Thoughts

Timestamp: 171:33 - End

In the final moments, Joe and Andrew recap their discussions, reiterating the importance of authenticity, continuous personal growth, and the pursuit of meaningful endeavors. They express gratitude towards their listeners and each other, wrapping up the episode on a positive and reflective note.

• Joe Rogan: "I love you to death. You're the best. Tell everybody what's going on." [171:30]

• Andrew Schulz: "Yeah, it's a different happiness. It's the coolest thing that's ever happened to me." [159:44]

They encourage their audience to engage with their respective projects and performances, fostering a sense of community and shared experience among listeners.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Joe Rogan: "You don't do an episode on psychedelics unless you visited the Maya." [00:17]

• Andrew Schulz: "I think people do really do experience [entheogens], but also there's a certain type of personality that wants to let you know that they're enlightened." [04:03]

• Joe Rogan: "You say you took a heroic dose, you get points amongst the learned." [01:17]

• Andrew Schulz: "I think taking time and thinking about it is really wise." [25:32]

• Joe Rogan: "I try to get at least seven [hours of sleep]." [50:51]

• Joe Rogan: "He [orthopedic surgeon] says, this tear is gone." [127:10]

• Andrew Schulz: "It's the most incredible thing in the world and has transformed me." [159:44]

• Joe Rogan: "You got to let it change you." [158:55]

• Joe Rogan: "Bill Hicks became this poet. Nobody wanted to be profound before that." [143:06]

• Andrew Schulz: "Comedy's the best job on earth for us." [155:58]

This episode of "The Joe Rogan Experience" with Andrew Schulz offers listeners a profound exploration of personal growth, societal structures, and the nuanced interplay between various aspects of life. Through their candid dialogue, Joe and Andrew provide valuable insights, encouraging introspection and fostering a deeper understanding of both the comedy landscape and broader cultural phenomena.