Joe Rogan Experience #2358 - Chadd Wright

Wright's background is marked by resilience and grit. He describes how a large cyst on his heart initially disqualified him from SEAL training, but after undergoing major surgery and a year of recovery, he returned to complete the grueling program.

Chewing Tobacco, Health, and Environmental Concerns

Early in the podcast, Wright and Rogan discuss the health risks associated with chewing tobacco, particularly the link to mouth cancer. Wright reflects on his own long-term use of chewing tobacco since his early teens and the growing awareness of its dangers as he aged. He speculates that the chemicals used in industrial tobacco farming, such as pesticides, might contribute to the cancer risk, and wonders if organically grown tobacco would be less harmful.

The conversation broadens to environmental toxins, with Wright mentioning the pervasive presence of glyphosate in California wines and agricultural soils. He shares his observations from living in rural Virginia, where fields treated with herbicides and genetically modified crops leave the soil barren of other plant life. This leads to a discussion about the long-term impact of industrial farming on soil health and the difficulty of restoring such land to productive, regenerative agriculture. Wright references Will Harris of White Oak Pastures, who has spent decades converting industrial farmland into rich, living soil, underscoring the immense effort and cost involved in sustainable farming practices.

Urban Life and Its Challenges

Wright contrasts his rural lifestyle with the realities of urban living, particularly in Austin and Los Angeles. He describes the sensory overload of city environments—the constant noise, pollution, and crowded conditions—and how these factors affect his physical well-being, such as causing respiratory irritation. His vivid comparison of Austin's air quality to that of Lagos, Nigeria, albeit less severe, paints a stark picture of urban environmental degradation.

Beyond the physical discomfort, Wright reflects on the social challenges he witnesses in cities, including homelessness and substance abuse. He shares a poignant story about encountering a woman struggling with addiction and the human propensity to fall into despair. This segment reveals Wright's empathy and his contemplation of human nature's darker aspects, especially when people are pushed to their limits. The conversation touches on the complexity of urban poverty and the seeming entrapment within systemic issues that make sustainable change difficult.

Hunting and Outdoor Lifestyle

A significant portion of the podcast delves into Wright's passion for hunting and the outdoors. He describes his daily routine of squirrel hunting with his mountain curr dog, Wendy, emphasizing the primal connection and joy he finds in this activity. Hunting small game, he explains, is not only a tradition but a practical skill for subsistence, especially in scenarios where larger game might be scarce. Wright also discusses the social aspect of hunting, recounting the camaraderie and fun of group hunts where the atmosphere is lively and relaxed.

Wright's hunting interests extend beyond squirrels to whitetail deer, elk, and even exotic species like axis deer in Hawaii. He shares stories of challenging hunts, including stalking mule deer with a longbow and the unique difficulties posed by fast, wary animals like axis deer. The conversation highlights the blend of patience, skill, and respect for nature that hunting requires. Wright also touches on the culinary side of wild game, acknowledging the challenges of cooking such meat well and praising those who have mastered the art of preparing traditionally less popular game like bear and wild hog.

Vehicles and Preparedness

Wright and Rogan bond over their shared appreciation for rugged, reliable vehicles, particularly old Toyota Land Cruisers and diesel trucks. Wright explains his preference for older, mechanically simple vehicles that can operate without modern electronics, which he sees as vulnerable to failures from EMPs or power grid disruptions. He recounts his collection of classic trucks, including a 1997 Dodge Ram with a Cummins diesel engine and various Toyota models, emphasizing their durability and suitability for off-road and hunting excursions.

The discussion also touches on the broader theme of preparedness and self-reliance. Wright's choice of vehicles reflects a mindset geared toward resilience in uncertain circumstances, whether due to technological failures or environmental challenges. This practical approach to gear and transportation complements his outdoor lifestyle and his philosophy of living close to the land.

Spiritual Journey and Conversion

One of the most profound parts of the episode is Wright's detailed account of his spiritual awakening and conversion to Christianity. He describes a pivotal experience during a deployment in Germany, where he and his teammates encountered what he believed to be a demonic presence in their barracks. This unsettling experience led him to seek help from his brother's pastor, who prayed over the building and anointed the door with olive oil, resulting in a sudden and lasting peace.

This encounter sparked Wright's curiosity about Jesus and the Bible, leading him to read scripture with fresh eyes. He recounts how the gospel message resonated deeply with him, revealing his own depravity and need for salvation. The transformation was immediate and radical, changing his desires and outlook on life. Wright emphasizes that this change was not due to his own effort but was a work of divine grace, awakening him spiritually and enabling him to understand and embrace the Christian faith.

Reflections on Death and the Afterlife

Wright shares intimate reflections on death, inspired by his time sitting with a dying mentor, Don Tidwell, who had pancreatic cancer. He describes the emotional and spiritual lessons learned from witnessing Don's faith and the power of scripture to bring hope and energy even in the face of death. Wright recounts the mysterious and moving moments near Don's passing, including physical manifestations that he interprets as signs of the soul's transition.

The conversation broadens to philosophical and theological questions about mortality, the nature of death, and what lies beyond. Wright and Rogan discuss near-death experiences, consciousness, and the limitations of human understanding. They explore the idea that death is the ultimate enemy and that the human body was originally created for eternal life, corrupted by sin. This segment is deeply contemplative, blending personal testimony with broader spiritual inquiry.

Biblical Scholarship and Interpretation

Throughout the episode, Wright demonstrates a thoughtful engagement with biblical scholarship and the complexities of interpreting ancient texts. He discusses the challenges posed by translations, historical context, and human fallibility in conveying divine truth. Wright praises scholars like Wesley Huff and Rick Strassman for their dedication to understanding scripture in its original languages and cultural settings.

He also reflects on the preservation of biblical texts, citing the remarkable consistency found in the Dead Sea Scrolls and the prophetic accuracy of passages like Isaiah 53. Wright acknowledges the difficulties in reconciling apparent contradictions and the role of faith in accepting scripture as divinely inspired. This intellectual humility and respect for scholarship underscore his approach to faith as both a spiritual and an academic pursuit.

Science, Evolution, and Faith

Wright and Rogan engage in a nuanced discussion about science, evolution, and their relationship to faith. Wright expresses curiosity about evolutionary theory, acknowledging the vast timescales involved and the mysteries surrounding human consciousness and origins. He applies "country boy logic" to question how evolution over billions of years produced beings as complex as humans, who nonetheless have limited lifespans and vulnerabilities.

The conversation touches on the coexistence of scientific inquiry and religious belief, with Wright emphasizing that faith and reason need not be in conflict. He speculates on the genetic impact of sin and the possibility that the human body was originally designed for eternal life. This dialogue reflects a thoughtful grappling with modern science while maintaining a commitment to biblical truths.

Mental Toughness and Voluntary Adversity

Wright and Rogan share their perspectives on mental toughness, emphasizing the importance of voluntary adversity in building resilience. Wright recounts his experience in extreme endurance events, including a grueling 1,000-mile kayaking race on the Yukon River with a paralyzed teammate. He describes the physical and mental challenges of such endeavors and how they sharpen focus, discipline, and character.

They agree that regular physical and mental challenges are essential for maintaining sanity and strength in life. Wright highlights how training and preparation are ongoing processes, not one-time achievements. This philosophy of embracing hardship as a path to growth resonates with both men's backgrounds in military and athletic pursuits.

Critique of Organized Religion and Hypocrisy

The conversation addresses the common criticisms of organized religion, including hypocrisy, corruption, and the misuse of faith for control. Wright acknowledges the failings of many religious institutions and individuals, including mega-church pastors who accumulate wealth and power. He contrasts these with the genuine transformation and humility found in true Christian faith.

Wright is candid about his own imperfections and the ongoing struggle with sin, emphasizing that faith is not about perfection but about the response to one's shortcomings. He explains that true Christianity involves a continual process of sanctification and reliance on grace, rather than self-righteousness. This honest appraisal adds depth to the discussion of religion's role in society.

Podcasting and Public Life

Towards the end of the episode, Wright and Rogan discuss their experiences as podcasters and public figures. Wright shares how he started his own podcast and the challenges of building an audience while staying authentic. Rogan reflects on his slow rise to fame, the importance of character development, and the role of voluntary adversity in maintaining balance amid public scrutiny.

They talk about the value of open-minded conversations and the willingness to explore difficult questions without fear of sounding foolish. Both emphasize the importance of humility and continuous learning in their work.