> I'm honored to have shared this special 300th episode with Lex, especially on such a significant day for him. It's amazing to reflect on our journey and the impact we've had on each other.
> The connections we make through conversations and friendships are what truly enrich our lives. It's a reminder of the power of dialogue and human connection in shaping who we are and who we become.
> Art isn't just in painting or music; it’s in the way people live their lives. Whether it’s discipline, kindness, or dedication, it’s all an art form. When I look at someone like Cameron Haynes or David Goggins, I see the beauty in their relentless commitment to maximizing every day. There's an artistry in that grind, in how they navigate challenges with grace and dignity.
> Moreover, how we face challenges shapes not just our own lives but can inspire others. "What matters most is how you walk through the fire.” It’s about taking those trials and turning them into an example for others. When you handle adversity with a positive spirit, you create a blueprint for those around you to follow, making it clear that their struggles can be met with strength.
> During the tough times of facing public scrutiny and cancellations, one of the key things that helped me cope was my regimen of mushrooms and intense exercise. Taking less than a gram of mushrooms daily paired with brutal workout routines and torturous sessions like sauna and cold plunges helped me stay grounded and resilient.
> Facing immense public and media backlash offered a unique opportunity to grow and see how I handle difficult situations. It was wild to see how traditional media machinery operates, but also fascinating to witness people's responses, gaining millions of subscribers during the controversy and ultimately showing more of my true self under pressure.
> Understanding and dealing with criticism requires recognizing the nature of online negativity. It's often one-dimensional and not reflective of who I am wholly. I don't absorb biased opinions or faceless comments; instead, I focus on genuine feedback from close interactions.
> Navigating this strange time in history, with issues like the pandemic, political turmoil, and rising divisiveness, requires keen awareness. The key is understanding these complexities, from media narratives to political figures, while maintaining my personal conviction and not getting sucked into the negativity.
> One of the key takeaways from the interview was my deep dive into Bob Lazar's story. Despite its wild nature, his consistency over the years surprised me. His scientific background added weight to his claims, making it challenging to dismiss them outright.
> I found it fascinating to see the shift in how UFO sightings are being approached by reputable institutions like NASA. The increasing seriousness around investigating these phenomena is not only intriguing but aligns with a broader acceptance that life beyond Earth is highly probable.
> I expressed skepticism regarding the government's disclosure about UFOs, leaning towards the idea that they might be advanced drones rather than aliens. This skepticism stems from a belief that governments often withhold information and may not have the people's best interests in mind when revealing such mysteries.
> Recently, I’ve been diving into the world of intelligence agencies like the KGB and FSB, and it’s wild to see how deeply they manipulate narratives and gather intelligence. With the kind of reach I have, I can’t help but wonder if there are people around me with undercover agendas—maybe even on my podcast—trying to infiltrate my world. It’s unsettling to think that there might be deception lurking behind conversations, especially since they’re always looking to plant narratives and influence public perception.
> I find myself wrestling with the UFO phenomenon too—there’s this tension between my genuine desire for the truth and the skepticism I feel based on what I've seen. The desire for something extraordinary can cloud judgment, and it’s crucial to sift through the noise to find credible sources. The reality is that the people who often have the most to say about the truth are the quiet ones, those not seeking fame or attention, which makes it daunting to navigate who to trust in a sea of chaos.
> Trusting people in my life comes from long relationships and shared experiences. My closest friends are old friends, especially fellow comics who have been through the grind. There's a shared honesty among comics who've been at it for years. "If you're not trustworthy, people shy away from you," but the camaraderie among real comics is something really precious to me.
> Fame can be isolating, and you have to work to stay connected to genuine people. I love doing the "Protect Our Parks" podcast with Ari Shaffir, Shane Gillis, and Mark Normand. We just get obliterated and talk so much shit, but that genuine fun and laughter are important to keep grounded. It's about being around people who genuinely care about the same things and are not just out to benefit from you.
> There isn't one greatest comic of all time. Each great comic brings something unique to the table. Norm Macdonald was a great and releasing a special after his death was a genius move that played into his dark humor.
> Lenny Bruce is the godfather of modern standup comedy. He revolutionized standup by addressing social issues and taboos. His work may not be as shocking now, but it paved the way for modern comedy.
> The journey in comedy is tough and requires introspection. Open mic nights show the raw struggle of comedians trying to find their voice. It's a unique art form that demands authenticity and a deep connection with the audience.
> The pressure of childhood experiences can really shape who you become, and sometimes it pushes you towards a fierce independence. Losing my dad at such a young age, I thought he was invincible, and that made me adopt my own opinions right from the get-go. It’s like I had to carve my own path when I didn't have that steady presence, which led me to be “too independent for normal jobs” but ultimately fueled my passions for martial arts and comedy.
> The world was so different back in the '70s, and I’ve realized the importance of that wild, untamed spirit. I think about how if I had the wrong influence back then, I might’ve ended up on medication or lost somewhere in conventional life. Instead, the chaos of my upbringing made me feral in the best sense, allowing me to thrive and embrace this “timeline that's as good as it gets for someone like me.”
> "Find something you enjoy and get good at it." Whether it's drawing, martial arts, or any other passion, focusing on something you love can pull you out of tough situations and help you overcome insecurities. For me, it was martial arts that showed me I wasn't a loser, but someone who could channel my energy into success.
> No matter your age, "if you're alive, you can get better." Whether you're 50 or 90, there's always potential for growth and improvement. Even late in life, you can challenge yourself, pursue new interests, and reconcile relationships, making the most of every moment.
> Physical challenges are essential for mental resilience. "It's not just brute grunt work." The physical struggle builds emotional intelligence and mental strength, which can greatly complement intellectual pursuits. People often overlook this, but I've found that pushing my physical limits has huge mental benefits.
> One of the key things I said was about being someone that someone would want to be in a relationship with. What sets you apart? What makes you a great partner? It's crucial to work on those aspects.
> Another important point is finding the right person to be in a relationship with. Look for someone who shares your values, someone kind, dedicated, disciplined, and fun to be around. Having a good tribe of people around you, whether as friends, coworkers, or partners, is incredibly valuable. Surround yourself with positive, healthy, and inspiring individuals who encourage you to grow and improve.
> The idea of facing one's mortality is profound, especially for leaders like Putin; "if I had cancer... I would think he’ll be more focused on his legacy," and that fear of legacy can influence dangerous decisions.
> Democracy is a complex subject, and the political systems we have can feel corrupted; "this country is an experiment in self-government," and I genuinely believe we need laws to keep money out of politics for real progress.
> There’s a magnetic pull towards understanding my roots, especially in war-torn places; "nothing reveals the spirit of a people better than war," and that's why I'm drawn to go back to Ukraine and Russia—it's a journey towards understanding myself and my heritage.