🎯 All Moments (23)
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The Deafness of Rock Stars
A candid moment where Mellencamp reveals his significant hearing loss and explains why nearly every rock star of his generation is deaf.
How SoundScan Killed the Slow-Build Hit
John Mellencamp explains how the introduction of SoundScan data fundamentally changed how songs reached number one, shifting from local builds to immediate data-driven metrics.
Mick Jagger's Unstoppable Stage Energy in His 80s
An inspirational look at Mick Jagger's work ethic and performance energy at age 80, proving that age doesn't have to diminish passion or capability.
Musician vs. Clown: Choosing Theaters Over Stadiums
Mellencamp describes the moment he realized playing massive stadiums felt like being a 'cheerleader' rather than a musician, leading him to pivot to theater performances.
The Miracle Survival of John Mellencamp
Mellencamp shares the incredible story of surviving an experimental neurosurgery in 1951 for spina bifida, being the only survivor among five children.
The Disturbing Reality of Processed Fast Food
Mellencamp and Rogan discuss the unnatural shelf life of modern processed foods, including ice cream that doesn't melt and 20-year-old burgers.
The Birth of the Johnny Cougar Name
Mellencamp shares the story of how his manager forced the name 'Johnny Cougar' on him and how he nearly quit the industry because of it.
The MTV Pink House Dump Disaster
John tells the hilarious and disastrous story of MTV's first-ever promotion where they accidentally bought a house on a chemical dump to give away to a fan.
The Accidental Drum Machine of 'Jack and Diane'
A fascinating look at how a prototype drum machine borrowed from the Bee Gees created the unique, iconic sound of 'Jack and Diane' because the drummer couldn't keep time.
Life is Short Even in Its Longest Days
A profound piece of wisdom passed down from Mellencamp's 100-year-old grandmother about the fleeting nature of time, regardless of how long one lives.
The Tragic Origin of Sam Kinison's Comedy Style
John Mellencamp reveals the little-known story of how a childhood brain injury from a truck accident transformed Sam Kinison's personality.
How SoundScan Data Changed the Music Charts Forever
An inside look at how the implementation of SoundScan tracking changed Billboard rankings and helped rap music overtake rock in the mainstream.
Joe Rogan's Rule: Stay Out of the Comments
Joe Rogan and John Mellencamp discuss the importance of ignoring online criticism and never Googling yourself to maintain artistic focus.
The Label Hated 'Jack and Diane'
Mellencamp reveals that the record company actually hated his biggest hits, including 'Jack and Diane' and 'Hurt So Good,' when they first heard them.
Accepting Reality: Life After the Thrill of Fame
A profound reflection on why material success and rock stardom didn't bring happiness, and the importance of humility and responsibility.
History is Only Two People Ago
A fascinating perspective on how recent historical events like the Civil War actually are when measured by human lifespans rather than years.
John Mellencamp's Brutal Path to Sobriety
John Mellencamp recounts the violent and humiliating night in 1973 that led him to quit drugs and alcohol forever at age 21.
The Cosmic Perspective: Why You Should Stop Worrying
John Mellencamp shares a powerful perspective on the scale of human life compared to the universe, encouraging listeners to stop sweating the small stuff and practice humility.
Why the 'Woke Movement' Killed the Comedy Movie
Joe Rogan and John Mellencamp discuss how political correctness and the fear of criticism have effectively ended the era of outrageous, inappropriate comedy films.
80s Parenting: Go Outside and Don't Come Back Until Dark
A humorous look back at the hands-off parenting style of the 80s and the iconic 'Do you know where your children are?' PSA.
Find Something You Love and Let It Kill You
Mellencamp shares a provocative and controversial outlook on his lifelong smoking habit, prioritizing passion and enjoyment over conventional health advice.
Nattokinase: The Plaque-Shrinking Supplement
Joe Rogan and John Mellencamp discuss a supplement derived from fermented food that clinical trials suggest can significantly reduce arterial plaque.
Making Your Work Undeniable
John and Joe discuss the philosophy of being 'undeniable' to overcome critics and how haters can actually fuel a creator to achieve greatness.