Joe Rogan conducted an interview with former President Donald Trump on Friday, making it a significant moment as it was the first time a former president appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast.
The conversation took place in Austin, Texas, and was shared on Rogan’s social media platforms on Friday evening, lasting close to three hours.
In the interview, Rogan questioned Trump about his commitment to involving Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in his administration, especially after Kennedy endorsed Trump following the suspension of his independent presidential campaign in August. Trump affirmed his commitment but expressed caution regarding Kennedy’s views on environmental issues, especially his opposition to oil. Trump stated, “Oh, I completely am,” and mentioned that he would advise Kennedy to focus on health matters.
This interview comes at a time when Trump has reduced his appearances on major television networks, opting instead for interviews with podcasters and YouTube channels like the Logan Paul Podcast.
The Joe Rogan Experience ranks as the most popular podcast on Spotify, boasting an audience of over 14 million listeners. Rogan’s diverse interviews have featured a variety of guests, spanning from scientists like Neil deGrasse Tyson to musicians such as Post Malone. His audience consists primarily of men, with a balanced mixture of Democrats, Republicans, and independents, presenting a strategic opportunity for candidates as they approach the Election Day scheduled for November 5.
Edison Research noted that Rogan’s politically diverse audience provides candidates with a valuable platform to engage key voter segments, particularly independents and younger voters.
In terms of Rogan’s background, he is a 57-year-old former comedian and actor, known for his early role in the NBC show “NewsRadio.” He gained popularity as the host of “Fear Factor” and has made appearances in various TV series and comedy specials. Rogan began recording The Joe Rogan Experience in 2009, reaching a milestone of 11 million listeners by 2015. In 2020, he signed an exclusive deal with Spotify, which he extended in 2024 for a reported $250 million.
Typically, new episodes of The Joe Rogan Experience are released daily at 1 p.m. Eastern Time from Tuesday to Friday, with occasional Saturday releases.
Rogan identifies himself as a “bleeding heart liberal,” acknowledging his beliefs in the Second Amendment and support for the military and police, while emphasizing that these views do not align him strictly with the Republican Party. His podcast features a broad spectrum of political discussions, hosting guests from various ideological backgrounds.
Residing in Austin, Texas, Rogan records his podcast in a spacious 11,000-square-foot home that he shares with his wife Jessica Ditzel and their children. The couple married in 2009 and have two daughters together, along with Ditzel’s daughter from a previous relationship. Rogan has described Ditzel as a positive presence in his life.