20 Life-Changing Books Recommended by Joe Rogan

Joe Rogan, a prominent podcaster, comedian, and UFC commentator, has long been recognized for his eclectic interests and deep dives into various subjects through his podcast, ‘The Joe Rogan Experience.’ Known for his curiosity and broad range of topics, Rogan often discusses books that have profoundly impacted his thinking and lifestyle. From psychology and philosophy to history and health, his recommended reads reflect a diverse spectrum that promises not only knowledge but transformation. Here, we explore 20 life-changing books endorsed by Joe Rogan, each offering unique insights and perspectives to challenge, educate, and inspire readers.

1. Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari

Yuval Noah Harari’s ‘Sapiens’ delves into the history of humankind, tracing our evolution from ancient ancestors to the dominant species on Earth. It explores how biology and history have defined us and how what we do affects not only our lives but the future of our planet. Insightful and thought-provoking, this book offers a compelling narrative of human history.

2 The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

‘The Four Agreements’ provides a practical guide to personal freedom. Drawing on ancient Toltec wisdom, the book presents a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives into a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love. The concepts of Ruiz are simple yet profound, aimed at creating a life of integrity, health, and balance.

3. The Immortality Key by Brian C. Muraresku

This groundbreaking book investigates the role of psychedelics in the origins of Western civilization and the real-life quest for the Holy Grail. Brian C. Muraresku speculates on the substance used in the original Christian sacraments and how it could be linked to the Enlightenment at Eleusis, offering a controversial and compelling look at the history of religion.

4. Breath by James Nestor

‘Breath’ explores the transformative power of breathing. Through a combination of historical anecdotes and cutting-edge scientific research, James Nestor explains how small changes in breathing can improve athletic performance, rejuvenate internal organs, and even straighten scoliotic spines. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in health and wellness.

5. Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins

David Goggins shares his astonishing life story, revealing how he transformed from a depressed, overweight young man with no future into a U.S. Armed Forces icon and one of the world’s top endurance athletes. ‘Can’t Hurt Me’ offers a raw and powerful account of self-discipline, overcoming obstacles, and confronting one’s fears.

6. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

Steven Pressfield’s ‘The War of Art’ highlights the internal battles one faces when venturing into the creative process. Pressfield discusses the concept of Resistance as the enemy every artist, entrepreneur, or athlete encounters and provides strategies to conquer this inner blocker. This is a motivational call to pursue one’s craft despite the challenges.

7. The Terminal List by Jack Carr

In ‘The Terminal List,’ Jack Carr spins a tale of revenge and conspiracy. The plot follows a Navy SEAL who discovers a dark force acting against him and the country. Carr, a former Navy SEAL himself, combines real-life experience with fiction to create a thrilling narrative filled with suspense and action.

8. The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt

This book examines the connection between ancient wisdom and modern science in understanding happiness. Jonathan Haidt proposes ten great ideas from psychological science that help explain why humans evolved to desire and react in the ways that they do. ‘The Happiness Hypothesis’ is an insightful exploration of the foundation of human well-being.

9. Empire of the Summer Moon by S. C. Gwynne

‘Empire of the Summer Moon’ chronicles the rise and fall of the Comanches, the most powerful tribe in American history. The book captures the clash between indigenous tribes and settlers, telling the story through the epic saga of the pioneer woman Cynthia Ann Parker and her mixed-blood son Quanah, who became the last and greatest chief of the Comanches.

10. Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell

Malcolm Gladwell explores the complexities of communicating with strangers. The book analyzes how our interactions are filled with misunderstandings and misinterpretations, using a mix of journalistic storytelling, history, and psychology. ‘Talking to Strangers’ is a thought-provoking look at the assumptions we make when dealing with people we don’t know.

11. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

One of the great works of Stoic philosophy, ‘Meditations’ offers a series of personal writings by Emperor Marcus Aurelius. The insights serve as practical advice for conducting oneself in a world of adversity, duty, and honour. It is a reflective work meant to encourage self-improvement and resilience.

12. Black Elk by Joe Jackson

‘Black Elk’ brings to light the life of the famous Lakota healer and visionary. Joe Jackson’s biography paints a vivid picture of how indigenous cultures were overwhelmed by American expansionism while focusing on Black Elk’s spiritual legacy and his efforts to preserve his people’s ancient way of life.

13. Chaos by Tom O’Neill

Tom O’Neill’s ‘Chaos’ dives deep into the mysterious circumstances surrounding the Manson Family murders and uncovers disturbing connections to the US government. This investigative book challenges the conventional narratives and exposes layers of manipulation and malfeasance, making us question everything we thought we knew about this infamous case.

14. Food of the Gods by Terence McKenna

Terence McKenna’s ‘Food of the Gods’ explores the relationship between humans and psychoactive plants. McKenna proposes that the consumption of these substances played a pivotal role in human evolution, particularly in terms of language, culture, and spirituality. This book offers a revolutionary understanding of how we interact with the natural world.

15. Fingerprints of the Gods by Graham Hancock

Graham Hancock’s ‘Fingerprints of the Gods’ is a compelling argument for a lost ancient civilization. Hancock uses archaeological and astronomical data to argue that a highly sophisticated society existed thousands of years before ancient Egypt and that they left clues about their advanced technology and knowledge that defy conventional historical timelines.

16. The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi

This classic text on kenjutsu and the martial arts philosophy by legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi emphasizes the importance of tactics in combat and life. ‘The Book of Five Rings’ is an epic guide on strategy, patience, and discipline, essential reading for anyone interested in Japanese history and the samurai way.

17. Stealing Fire by Steven Kotler

‘Stealing Fire’ examines the quest to harness rare and controversial states of consciousness. Authors Steven Kotler and Jamie Wheal delve into the use of flow states, psychedelics, and other transformative practices as tools for achieving extraordinary levels of performance and unlocking new realms of human capability.

18. The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday

Drawing from Stoicism, ‘The Obstacle is the Way’ illustrates how we can turn our obstacles into advantages. Ryan Holiday uses historical examples to show that the key to success is how we approach challenges, turning them into opportunities for growth. This book offers actionable advice for overcoming difficulties in any area of life.

19. A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century by Heather Heying and Bret Weinstein

This book explores the evolutionary contexts of modern human problems, offering insights into health, fitness, and society. Heying and Weinstein use their backgrounds in evolutionary biology to discuss how ancient human instincts clash with contemporary life, proposing ways to achieve health and fulfilment by realigning our lifestyles with our genetic heritage.

20. Ladies and Gentlemen, Lenny Bruce!! by Albert Goldman

This biography of the iconic comedian Lenny Bruce details his impact on free speech, comedy, and culture. Through a detailed narrative, Albert Goldman sheds light on Bruce’s battles with censorship and his legacy in challenging societal norms and advocating for artistic freedom.

The books recommended by Joe Rogan stretch across a broad array of genres and topics, yet they all share a common characteristic: the power to transform. Whether you’re looking to expand your understanding of human history, delve into the complexities of modern society, or find personal empowerment and resilience, these books offer invaluable resources. They provoke thought, encourage introspection, and equip readers with the tools to foster personal and professional growth. Engaging with these reads can open doors to new ways of thinking and living, underlining the profound impact that well-chosen words on a page can have on our lives.