#2402 - Miranda Lambert
In this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, country music artist Miranda Lambert and Joe Rogan explore the mental aspects of live performance, including managing stage fright and developing authentic stage presence. Their discussion covers Lambert's journey from a shy teenager to a seasoned performer, with both sharing personal experiences about overcoming performance anxiety and the discipline required for successful live shows.
The conversation extends beyond music to examine the role of diverse interests in maintaining creative energy. Lambert discusses her involvement in activities like mounted shooting and painting, while also sharing insights about her animal welfare work through the Mutt Nation Foundation. The episode touches on industry challenges, including substance use and maintaining wellness, with both host and guest discussing their approaches to physical and mental health.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Oct 29, 2025 episode of the The Joe Rogan Experience
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1-Page Summary
Creative Pursuits and the Performer's Mindset
In a discussion between Joe Rogan and Miranda Lambert, they explore how activities demanding complete focus parallel the discipline needed for stage performance. Lambert shares insights about starting her music career at 17 and the importance of connecting with audiences while managing technical aspects like in-ear monitors.
Overcoming Stage Fright and Building Confidence
Lambert reveals how an accidental placement in a speech honors debate class helped transform her from a shy kid into a confident performer. Rogan relates by sharing his unexpected encounter with intense stage fright during his early stand-up days. Both agree that developing genuine stage presence requires time and can't be rushed by instant fame.
Importance of Hobbies Outside Creative Work
At 40, Lambert discusses finding rejuvenation through new hobbies, including golf, mounted shooting, and painting folk chickens. Rogan compares this diversification of interests to charging a battery, suggesting it's essential for creative sustainability.
Unusual Hobbies and Activities
Lambert describes her experience with cowboy mounted shooting, a sport combining horseback riding and shooting at balloons with black powder. Despite being new to the sport, she completed a competition run in 28 seconds, though top competitors can finish in 7-8 seconds.
Animals and Animal Care
The conversation shifts to pet ownership, with Rogan sharing his family's challenges with dog allergies and Lambert discussing her work with the Mutt Nation Foundation, which she founded in 2009. The foundation has raised over $11 million for animal welfare and supports various shelter initiatives.
Substance Use, Addiction, and Personal Health
Rogan and Lambert explore the complexities of substance use in the entertainment industry, from the omnipresence of alcohol in performance environments to the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. They discuss various coping mechanisms, with Lambert mentioning her use of nootropics and Pilates, while Rogan emphasizes the importance of healthy activities like archery for mental well-being.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In-ear monitors are devices used by musicians to hear themselves and the accompanying music on stage. They provide a personalized audio mix directly into the performer's ears, allowing for better control of sound levels and clarity during live performances. In-ear monitors help musicians stay in sync with the band, hear vocals clearly, and block out external noise for a more focused performance. They are essential tools for maintaining pitch accuracy and overall sound quality on stage.
- Nootropics are substances believed to enhance cognitive functions like memory and focus. They can be over-the-counter drugs or dietary supplements, with varying levels of regulation and evidence. Some people use them to support mental performance, but caution is advised due to potential risks and lack of conclusive scientific backing.
- The Mutt Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded by Miranda Lambert in 2009. It focuses on animal welfare, raising funds for rescue organizations, promoting adoption, and providing support for shelter initiatives. The foundation has been active in various charitable efforts to improve the lives of animals in need. Miranda Lambert's passion for animals and her commitment to their well-being are central to the foundation's mission.
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Creative Pursuits and the Performer's Mindset
Joe Rogan and Miranda Lambert discuss the demands of performance art and beyond, unpacking the realities of focus, discipline, stage fright, confidence, and the benefits of hobbies in creative work.
Creativity Requires Focus, Discipline, and Channeling Energy
According to Joe Rogan, activities that demand complete focus, such as riding a horse while shooting a gun, parallel the focused core strength—the discipline and attention—that performing on stage requires. Miranda Lambert adds that for performances, a balance is crucial. She refers to using in-ear monitors which allow performers to protect their hearing and still connect with the energy of the room.
Lambert also dwells on the importance of creativity through co-writing and finds inspiration from riffing with friends before a show, likening it to the camaraderie among comedians in the green room. She mentions starting her music career at 17, choosing music because it felt like the only thing she excelled in, and implies it was her sole focus.
Performers Must Thrive Under Pressure and Connect With Audiences
Joe Rogan emphasizes the importance of following one’s passion and concentrated focus on that without relying on a backup plan which might distract from reaching full potential in one's chosen field. Miranda Lambert describes the labor-intensive early days of her career, which included tasks like stapling posters to telephone poles, suggesting that these efforts honed her character and her ability to connect with audiences under pressure.
Overcoming Stage Fright and Building Confidence
Selective Hearing and Finding the Zone Help Manage Performer Anxiety
Both hosts explore the encounters with stage fright and the process of building confidence. Lambert shares how, as a shy kid, she was accidentally placed in a speech honors debate class, which helped her overcome her shyness and prepared her for a career in music. This growth in confidence enabled her to play music in bars, developing her performance persona.
Rogan recounts his surprise at experiencing intense stage fright when he first attempted stand-up comedy. Both agree that developing stage presence takes time and cannot be rushed by instant fame. Lambert recognizes he ...
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Creative Pursuits and the Performer's Mindset
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In the context of the analogy, riding a horse while shooting a gun requires intense focus, coordination, and control to handle two distinct tasks simultaneously, much like the core strength, discipline, and attention needed for performing on stage. The analogy highlights the mental and physical demands of multitasking and staying composed under pressure, drawing parallels between the skills needed in different high-pressure scenarios. It underscores the importance of honing one's ability to concentrate, remain calm, and execute tasks with precision in challenging situations, whether on stage or in other demanding environments.
- In-ear monitors are devices worn by performers to hear themselves and the accompanying music on stage. They provide a personalized audio mix, helping artists stay on pitch and in sync with the band. By using in-ear monitors, performers can protect their hearing from loud stage volumes while still feeling connected to the energy and vibe of the live performance. These monitors allow artists to maintain a balance between hearing protection and engaging with the audience and fellow musicians during a live show.
- Co-writing involves collaborating with other songwriters to create music together, combining different perspectives and skills to produce a unique piece. Riffing with friends before a show involves spontaneous musical improvisation and brainstorming, where musicians play off each other's ideas to generate new melodies or lyrics. These practices can inspire fresh creativity, offer diverse insights, and enhance the overall quality of the music being created. Collaborative songwriting and jam sessions with peers can lead to unexpected and exciting artistic outcomes.
- Stapling posters in the early days of a music career is a common grassroots promotional tactic used to raise awareness about upcoming performances. This task involves physically putting up posters in public spaces to attract potential audience members to shows. By engaging in these hands-on promotional activities, artists like Miranda Lambert not only build a connection with their local community but also develop a strong work ethic and resilience essential for navigating the challenges of the entertainment industry. This experience can help performers understand the importance of direct engagement with their audience and the effort required to establish a loyal fan base.
- The relationship between stage fright, confidence building, and instant fame is complex. Stage fright can affect performers regardless of their level of fame, as it stems from various factors like self-doubt and fear of judgment. Building confidence takes time and experience, and instant fame doesn't guarantee the ability to manage stage fright effectively. Instant fame can sometimes amplify stage fright due to the sudden pressure and expectations placed on performers. Confidence building is a gradual process that involves overcoming fears and developing a strong sense of self-assurance in one's abilities.
- The speech honors debate class helped Miranda Lambert overcome shyness by providing a structured environment to practice public speaking and build confidence. Through this experience, she learned to articulate her thoughts effectively and engage with an audience, which translated into her ability to perform confidently on stage. The class may ...
Counterarguments
- While focus and discipline are crucial for performance, some artists may argue that spontaneity and improvisation are equally important on stage.
- In-ear monitors, while useful, might not be the preferred choice for all performers; some may feel they create a barrier between them and the audience.
- Co-writing and riffing with friends can enhance creativity, but some artists might find that solitude and introspection are more conducive to their creative process.
- While Miranda Lambert found her niche in music at 17, others may discover their creative passions later in life, suggesting there isn't a one-size-fits-all timeline for starting a career in the arts.
- The idea of not having a backup plan can be risky and isn't practical for everyone; some performers might find that having a safety net allows them to take greater creative risks.
- Early career tasks like stapling posters might build character for some, but others may argue that these tasks are simply menial and don't necessarily contribute to an artist's ability to connect with their audience.
- Overcoming stage fright is a personal journey, and what works for one performer, like participating in a speech honors debate class, may not work for another.
- The anticipation before a performance could be a mix of both caring about the performance and experiencing nervousness, rather tha ...
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Unusual Hobbies and Activities
Miranda Lambert and Joe Rogan discuss the thrills and challenges of engaging in non-mainstream hobbies, particularly cowboy mounted shooting, which combines horse riding and shooting in an adrenaline-charged activity that's spectator-friendly but participant-demanding.
Mounted Shooting and Cowboy Mounted Shooting as Adrenaline-Fueled Hobbies
Lambert and Rogan touch upon the dynamic and precise nature of mounted shooting, highlighting the coordination required to excel in the sport. Lambert shares her personal experiences in the field, signifying her passion for the rolling intersection of skill and adrenaline.
Equestrian Balloon Shooting Sport Requires Skill and Coordination
Lambert started cowboy mounted shooting the previous year, an activity where she rides her horse, Cool, using a revolver to shoot at balloons. The sport, technically labeled as such, consists of 83 different patterns to keep the horse from getting too accustomed, and uses black powder to ensure it’s safe for spectators and horses alike. Despite being new to the sport and not as fast as her friend Kenda Lonsane, a 10-time world champion, Lambert completed a competition run in 28 seconds, while top competitors can do it in about 7 or 8 seconds.
Lambert talks about her initial interest in horse riding activities such as hunter-jumper and barrel racing but eventually settled on cowboy mounted shooting due to safety considerations and her touring schedule. The choice was also due to her excitement about the lack of control while on the horse and the challenges of aiming while riding, which require significant skill and coordination.
The Allure Of Pursuing Niche, Unconventional Pastimes
Lambert's and Rogan's conversations reveal the excitement and growth that come with pursuing unconventional pastimes such as mounted shooting.
Non-mainstream Activities Offer Excitement and Growth
Rogan humorously suggests that someone's calling might be found in the exhilaration of interacting with horses and shooting at balloons. He compares cowboy mounted shooting to the tactical course ...
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Unusual Hobbies and Activities
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Cowboy mounted shooting is a competitive equestrian sport where riders navigate a course on horseback while shooting at targets. Riders use blank ammunition to hit balloon targets while riding at high speeds. The sport requires precision, skill, and coordination between the rider and the horse. It combines elements of horsemanship, marksmanship, and speed in a thrilling and challenging competition.
- In cowboy mounted shooting, black powder is used as a propellant for the firearms. It is chosen for its historical authenticity and lower pressure compared to modern smokeless powders. This choice enhances safety by reducing the risk of firearm malfunctions and injuries during the sport. The use of black powder adds to the traditional and nostalgic feel of cowboy mounted shooting events.
- In cowboy mounted shooting competitions, participants ride horses and shoot at balloons while navigating a specific course. The time taken to complete the course is a crucial factor in determining a competitor's performance. Lambert's completion time of 28 seconds indicates her proficiency in the sport, although top competitors can achieve significantly faster times, typically around 7 or 8 seconds. This speed demonstrates the exceptional skill and precision required to excel in cowboy mounted shooting competitions.
- Lambert's transition from showing Gypsy Vanner horses to ...
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Animals and Animal Care
Joe Rogan and Miranda Lambert delve into the complexities of pet ownership, discussing the joy and challenges it brings, as well as the gravity of responsible pet ownership and animal rescue.
Joy and Challenges in Pet Ownership
Managing Allergy, Health, and Emotional Aspects of Pet Ownership
The conversation between Joe Rogan and Miranda Lambert sheds light on the various aspects of caring for pets, including health, allergies, and the emotional bonds that form. Rogan shares his own household's challenges with dog allergies, revealing that his wife and daughter react badly to dogs, with one incident involving his daughter's eyes swelling due to a horse allergy during a carriage ride in Rome. Despite this, Rogan still keeps pets and would have more if not for the allergies. Similarly, Lambert indicates that she relies on allergy medication to be around her own pets, including dogs and horses.
Lambert speaks to the emotional aspects of caring for animals as well, from the fear and discomfort she experiences when learning to ride horses as an adult to the humor in her father's dog eating his hearing aid. She also discusses living with a blind, senior Chihuahua and the emotional turmoil of losing a dog each year for six years.
Importance of Responsible Pet Ownership and Animal Rescue
Mutt Nation Foundation Advocates For Animal Welfare
Miranda Lambert, through her interactions with the Mutt Nation Foundation, which she started with her mom in 2009, emphasizes the importance of animal rescue and responsible pet ownership. Lambert shares her passion for chickens, referring to them endearingly as "ladies," and the pickiness of their eating habits. She also touches upon the importance of understanding dog breeds before adopting and the challenges of caring for older and disabled pets.
Rogan and Lambert discuss various dog breeds, their intended roles, and the intelligence of dogs. They touch on the serious subjects of dog fighting and overbreeding, emphasizing the need for responsible adoption and thoroughly vetted shelters, particularly for breeds like pit bulls, which often suffer from misconceptions and can be aggressive toward other dogs if not properly handle ...
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Animals and Animal Care
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Joe Rogan is a well-known podcaster, comedian, and former UFC commentator known for his interest in various topics, including animals and pet ownership. Miranda Lambert is a country music singer-songwriter with a strong advocacy for animal welfare, particularly through her foundation, the Mutt Nation Foundation. Their backgrounds in entertainment and animal advocacy bring unique perspectives to the discussion on pet ownership and animal rescue.
- Lambert's emotional experiences in caring for animals reflect a range of feelings, from fear and discomfort when learning to ride horses as an adult to the humor in unexpected situations, like her father's dog eating his hearing aid. She also shares the emotional turmoil of losing a dog each year for six years, highlighting the deep connections and inevitable heartbreak that can come with pet ownership. These experiences underscore the complex emotional landscape that pet owners navigate, filled with both joy and sorrow. Lambert's candid discussions provide insight into the profound impact that animals can have on our lives, shaping our emotions and experiences in profound ways.
- Rehabilitating animals involved in dog fighting involves addressing physical injuries, behavioral issues like aggression, and psychological trauma from abuse. It requires specialized care, training, and patience to help these dogs overcome their past experiences. Successful rehabilitation often involves individualized plans tailored to each dog's needs and a supportive environment to rebuild trust and confidence. Or ...
Counterarguments
- While advocating for adopting from shelters is noble, it's important to acknowledge that not all potential pet owners are equipped to handle the challenges that some rescue animals may present, such as behavioral issues stemming from past trauma.
- The emphasis on understanding dog breeds before adopting is crucial, but it's also important to recognize that breed-specific behaviors are generalizations and individual dogs can exhibit a wide range of temperaments and behaviors.
- Responsible pet ownership includes spaying and neutering, but there are some arguments that suggest responsible breeding practices are also important for maintaining the health and diversity of certain breeds.
- The discussion about the intelligence of dogs and their roles could be expanded to include the importance of mental stimulation and proper training for all dogs, regardless of breed, to ensure their well-being.
- While condemning dog fighting is important, it's also necessary to address the root causes of why such practices exist and to work towards societal changes that can prevent such cruelty beyond just rehabilitation efforts.
- The cost of feeding multiple rescue dogs mentioned by Lambert might be prohibitive for average families, which could be a barrier to rescue efforts; this hig ...
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Substance Use, Addiction, and Personal Health
Joe Rogan and Miranda Lambert discuss the nuances of substance use within their industries, from moderation to addiction, impacting personal health and performance.
Substance Use in the Entertainment Industry
Relationship Between Performers, Alcohol, and Substances
The podcast delves into various aspects of substance use, particularly in the entertainment industry. Joe Rogan mentions pool players getting hooked on pills to enhance their performance, a state known as being "in stroke." Similarly, Miranda Lambert shares anecdotes from her early career in church choirs and honky-tonks, highlighting the omnipresence of alcohol in late-night performance environments.
Challenges of a Healthy Lifestyle and Work-Life Balance
Indulgence, Moderation, and Self-Care
Regarding the balance between indulgence and health, Miranda Lambert discusses her experience in a band where quitting smoking and drinking are ongoing conversations. Together, they talk about the use of substances like nicotine vapes and [restricted term], with Rogan raising concerns about the health implications of such substances, like spiking blood glucose levels.
They also reflect on the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Lambert, for example, talks about the difficulty of taking breaks, even when she knows she needs them, and how performing in the entertainment industry often involves indulgence as part of the job to connect with the crowd.
Joe Rogan notes that healthy activities like archery can provide a mental respite, emphasizing the need for self-care practices. Lambert mentions using nootropics and Pilates to help her maintain her health and keep up with the demands of her career. Additionally, Lambert reflects on taking excessive tequila as unforgiving and Rogan touches on his decision to limit alcohol for overall wellbeing.
Addiction Dangers and Need For Open Mental Health Conversations
Recognizing Unhealthy Substance Use Signs and Seeking Help
The conversation shifts to the potential dangers associated with unchecked substance use and the need for more public discussion on mental ...
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Substance Use, Addiction, and Personal Health
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- In late-night performance environments like church choirs and honky-tonks, alcohol is often prevalent due to the social nature of these settings and the historical association of alcohol with relaxation and camaraderie in such contexts. Performers in these environments may use alcohol to unwind after performances or to cope with the demands of their work, leading to its frequent presence in these spaces. The availability of alcohol in these venues can contribute to a culture where its consumption is normalized and even expected as part of the social and professional experience. This environment can sometimes blur the lines between social drinking, relaxation, and potential overindulgence, impacting the behaviors and choices of individuals within the entertainment industry.
- Nootropics are substances that claim to enhance cognitive functions like attention, memory, and wakefulness. They can be over-the-counter drugs or dietary supplements, but their effectiveness and safety can vary widely. The term "nootropic" was coined in 1972 by Corneliu E. Giurgea to describe compounds that improve learning and memory while protecting against disruptions.
- "Popcorn lung" is a colloquial term for bronchiolitis obliterans, a serious lung condition. It can be caused by inhaling certain chemicals, like diacetyl, found in some e-cigarette flavors. The nickname originated from a case where workers in a popcorn factory developed the condition due to inhaling butter flavoring chemicals. Vaping products containing diacetyl have raised concerns about potential lung damage and respiratory issues.
- High tolerance levels for nicotine vapes can develop when individuals regularly use vaping devices that deliver nicotine. Over time, the body can become accustomed to the nicotine levels, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can lead to increased consumption and potential health risks associated with nicotine addiction. Regular monitoring and moderation of nicotine intake are essential to prevent the development of a high tolerance to nicotine vapes.
- Casual use of strong amphetamines typically involves using drugs like [restricted term] without a prescription or medical supervision, often for non-medical purposes such as enhancing focus or performance. This kind of use can lead to various health r ...
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