Robert Jackman

The genius of Joe Rogan

Plus: Sam Harris's podcast on coronavirus is brilliantly informative but he lacks the common touch of Rogan

An ordinary Joe: Rogan's success flows from his slacker style and engagement with big ideas. Photo: Vivian Zink / Syfy / NBCUniversal / Getty Images 
issue 18 April 2020

Last month, just before coronavirus conquered the airwaves entirely, millions of Americans gave up two hours to hear a professor of epidemiology discuss the emerging pandemic. Despite its huge reach, not to mention its quality, the interview wasn’t broadcast on any of the news networks. Rather it was the work of a former martial-arts pundit and hallucinogenic-drug enthusiast who also happens to be one of America’s most popular — and influential — podcasters.

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