#2191 - Russell Crowe
#2191 - Russell Crowe
25Digest
This podcast features a conversation with Russell Crowe, covering a wide range of topics from his acting career and regenerative farming to his passion for boxing and his personal reflections on life, faith, and the changing world. The episode begins with a discussion about the surreal experience of meeting actors you've seen in many movies in real life, with Crowe sharing a story about meeting Daniel DeLewis. The conversation then shifts to Crowe's early career, his admiration for DeLewis's eccentricity, and his own desire to avoid a boring life. Crowe discusses his acting career, highlighting his passion for the craft and his commitment to choosing roles that resonate with him personally. He shares stories about his experiences filming "Noah" and "Cinderella Man," including the challenges of working long hours in extreme conditions and the importance of body language in acting. Crowe also talks about his decision to purchase land and start a regenerative farm, emphasizing his commitment to humane animal care and sustainable practices. The conversation turns to mixed martial arts, with Crowe expressing his admiration for One Championship and revealing that he is working on a film called "The Beast" in Me, which is about MMA fighting. Crowe fondly remembers his boxing coach, Angelo Dundee, and discusses the importance of rhythm in acting, drawing on his experience in musical theatre and dance. He shares stories about his experiences with boxers like Ricky Hatton, Costa Tszyu, Mike Tyson, and Jake Paul, expressing his admiration for their talent and dedication. The podcast also delves into Crowe's personal experiences, including his journey with stem cell therapy, his weight loss journey, and the impact of fatherhood on his life. He reflects on the challenges of navigating the world with children, the weaponization of information on social media, and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. The episode concludes with a discussion about America's role as a beacon of freedom and the importance of its continued health and well-being for the world.
Outlines
Russell Crowe's Diverse Journey: From Acting to Farming and Boxing
This podcast features a conversation with Russell Crowe, covering a wide range of topics from his acting career and regenerative farming to his passion for boxing and his personal reflections on life, faith, and the changing world.
Eccentricity and Early Career Choices
The conversation shifts to the topic of eccentricity, with Russell Crowe sharing his admiration for Daniel DeLewis's unique personality and his ability to walk away from fame to pursue his passion for shoemaking. Russell Crowe then reflects on his own early career, discussing his initial desire to avoid a boring life and his early jobs, including working for an insurance company and as a nightclub DJ.
Acting Career and Memorable Roles
Russell Crowe discusses his acting career, highlighting his passion for the craft and his commitment to choosing roles that resonate with him personally. He shares a story about his experience filming "Noah," including the challenges of working long hours in extreme conditions and the memorable scene involving a tarantula crawling into his mouth.
Regenerative Farming and Humane Animal Care
Russell Crowe talks about his decision to purchase land and start a regenerative farm, emphasizing his commitment to humane animal care and sustainable practices. He shares anecdotes about his experiences with cattle, including a humorous story about rescuing calves from a rainstorm.
Mixed Martial Arts and "The Beast" in Me
The conversation turns to mixed martial arts, with Russell Crowe expressing his admiration for One Championship and its founder, Chatri Sityodtong. He reveals that he is working on a film called "The Beast" in Me, which is about MMA fighting and will potentially feature a partnership with One Championship.
Remembering Angelo Dundee and the Power of Positivity
The speaker fondly remembers his boxing coach, Angelo Dundee, describing him as a positive and inspiring figure who believed in the power of positivity and discouraged holding grudges. He highlights Dundee's impressive coaching career, including training 15 world champions.
The Importance of Body Language in Acting
The speaker discusses the importance of body language in acting, using his experience playing James J. Braddock in "Cinderella Man" as an example. He describes how he learned Braddock's unique footwork and how it felt unnatural at first but became a crucial part of his performance.
A Shoulder Injury and the Making of "Cinderella Man"
The speaker recounts a shoulder injury he sustained during filming "Cinderella Man," which required surgery and threatened to derail the production. He describes his determination to finish the film and the challenges he faced during his recovery.
A Chance Encounter and a Stem Cell Clinic
The speaker mentions a chance encounter with a friend in Austin, Texas, who leads him to a stem cell clinic that might be able to help with his shoulder injury. He also shares a story about a previous visit to Austin with his band, where they played a show at Stubbs and received a special declaration from the governor.
Austin's Transformation and Real Estate Market
The speaker expresses his surprise at the significant changes he observes in Austin since his last visit in 2001. He notes the city's rapid growth and development, particularly downtown, and discusses the potential impact of the real estate market cooling down.
The Perks of Helicopter Travel
The speaker shares a humorous anecdote about his experience filming "A Beautiful Mind" in New York City, where he was stuck in a tunnel for an hour due to traffic. He describes his decision to use a helicopter for transportation during the shoot, which made his life much easier.
The Challenges of Playing a Troubled Genius
The speaker discusses the challenges of playing John Nash in "A Beautiful Mind," a character with schizophrenia. He describes the intense preparation and research involved, including learning about the physical tells associated with the disease.
The Power of a Great Script
The speaker shares his experience reading the script for "A Beautiful Mind" in Austin, Texas, and how it immediately resonated with him. He describes the unique device in the script that creates a sense of suspense and the physical response he had to the story.
A Miraculous Moment in Rome
The speaker recounts a deeply personal and spiritual experience he had with his mother in Rome, where they were given a private tour of the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. He describes a series of coincidences that led to a profound moment of connection with his late father.
The Overwhelming Beauty of St. Peter's Basilica
The speaker shares his initial reaction to St. Peter's Basilica, describing it as overwhelming and even offensive in its grandeur. He reflects on the power of art to evoke a sense of the divine and discusses the intricate craftsmanship of the basilica's ceiling.
The Physical Demands of "Gladiator"
The speaker discusses the physical training he underwent for "Gladiator," which involved a significant weight gain and a rigorous boxing regimen. He describes the challenges of maintaining his physique throughout the shoot and the decision to incorporate real boxing into the film.
Experience Over Formal Training
The speaker reflects on his decision not to attend drama school, believing that his real-world experience was more valuable than formal training. He discusses the different ways actors approach their craft and the importance of authenticity in performance.
The Responsibility of Playing Real People
The speaker discusses the responsibility of playing real people in films, particularly in "The Insider," where he portrayed a whistleblower who exposed the tobacco industry's harmful practices. He describes the emotional impact of the role and the importance of honoring the real person's story.
The Science of Nicotine and Smoking in the Ring
The speaker discusses the science of nicotine and its effects on the brain. He acknowledges the addictive nature of nicotine but also suggests that it can have positive effects on cognitive performance. He shares a humorous anecdote about Norm Macdonald's struggle with quitting smoking. The speaker reveals that he smoked cigarettes in the ring while filming "Cinderella Man" to stay true to the character's habits.
The Importance of Rhythm in Acting
The speaker discusses the importance of rhythm in acting, drawing on his experience in musical theatre and dance. He highlights the connection between rhythm and movement, and how it can enhance an actor's performance.
The Elusive Genius of Vasily Lomachenko
The speaker discusses the unique fighting style of Ukrainian boxer Vasily Lomachenko, known for his exceptional footwork and elusive movements. He compares Lomachenko's style to his own experience with martial arts and dance.
The Risks of Befriending Boxers
The speaker shares a story about his experience at a boxing match between Ricky Hatton and Costa Tszyu, where he witnessed the intensity and brutality of the sport firsthand. He discusses the challenges boxers face in recognizing when it's time to retire and the importance of having a strong sense of self-belief.
The Downfall of Oscar De La Hoya
The speaker expresses his disappointment with Oscar De La Hoya's recent behavior, which he attributes to drug use. He contrasts De La Hoya's current state with his impressive boxing career and the impact of his actions on his legacy.
The Undeniable Talent of Jake Paul
The speaker discusses the boxing career of Jake Paul, acknowledging his talent and dedication despite his YouTube background. He believes that Paul's success is due in part to people underestimating him because of his origins.
Mike Tyson's Comeback and Transformation
The speaker expresses mixed feelings about Mike Tyson's comeback, acknowledging his legendary status but questioning whether he should be fighting at his age. He discusses the physical challenges Tyson faces and the potential risks involved. The conversation starts with a discussion about Mike Tyson's physical transformation, highlighting his dramatic weight loss and intense energy when preparing for a fight. The speaker expresses his fear of Tyson's energy and how it impacted everyone in the room.
Stem Cells and Cartilage Regeneration
The conversation shifts to the speaker's personal experience with stem cell therapy for a rotator cuff tear. He details his successful recovery and discusses the potential of stem cells to regenerate cartilage, citing ongoing research and promising studies.
Peptides, Weight Loss, and the Carnivore Diet
The speaker discusses the use of peptides for healing and weight loss, highlighting their effectiveness but also the regulatory challenges they face. He advocates for a carnivore diet as a quick and effective way to lose weight.
The Power of Decision and Weight Loss Journey
The speaker shares his personal journey of weight loss, emphasizing the importance of making a clear decision and allowing it to guide his actions. He describes how his food intake has changed since making the decision to lose weight.
Tennis as an Unexpected Rehab
The speaker recounts how playing tennis, despite seeming counterintuitive, helped him rehabilitate his Achilles tendon. He attributes this to the short bursts of intense movement and the mental focus required to play the game.
The Impact of Fatherhood
The conversation turns to the speaker's experience as a father, highlighting the profound impact it has had on his life. He discusses the challenges and rewards of raising children and how it has changed his perspective on people.
Navigating the World with Children
The speaker reflects on the challenges of navigating the world with children, particularly in terms of politics and finding heroes. He expresses his concern about the current political climate and the difficulty of finding genuine leaders.
The Weaponization of Information and Social Media
The conversation explores the negative aspects of social media, including the weaponization of information, the spread of misinformation, and the rise of bots. The speaker shares his personal experience with social media and how he has adapted to its changing landscape.
Hope for the Future of Information Exchange
Despite the challenges of social media, the speaker expresses hope for the future of information exchange. He believes that the increased access to information will eventually lead to a greater understanding of human beings and a more nuanced perspective on the world.
A Year of Reflection and Change
The speaker shares his personal experience with the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the time he spent with his parents and the unexpected death of his father. He reflects on the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones and how the pandemic has changed his approach to work and life.
America's Role in the World
The conversation concludes with a discussion about America's role as a beacon of freedom and the importance of its continued health and well-being for the world. The speaker emphasizes the need for America to remain a place where people can express themselves freely and embrace diversity.
Keywords
Regenerative Farming
A system of farming that focuses on improving soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. It emphasizes natural processes, such as composting and cover cropping, to enhance soil fertility and reduce reliance on synthetic inputs.
Eccentricity
A personality trait characterized by unconventional behavior, unconventional thinking, and a disregard for social norms. Eccentric individuals often possess unique perspectives and creative approaches to life.
Angelo Dundee
Legendary boxing trainer who coached 15 world champions, including Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Robinson. Known for his positive attitude and inspiring coaching style.
Body Language
Nonverbal communication through gestures, facial expressions, and posture. Plays a crucial role in acting, conveying emotions and character traits.
Stem Cell Therapy
Medical treatment that uses stem cells to repair damaged tissues and organs. Shows promise for treating a variety of conditions, including injuries and diseases.
Carnivore Diet
A diet consisting primarily or exclusively of meat, with limited or no plant-based foods. It is often used for weight loss and improving health conditions.
Misinformation
False or inaccurate information that is spread widely, often intentionally. It can have harmful consequences, influencing public opinion and decision-making.
Social Media Bots
Automated accounts on social media platforms that are designed to mimic human behavior and spread specific messages or influence public opinion. They can be used for various purposes, including political campaigns and marketing.
Q&A
What is Russell Crowe's perspective on the surreal experience of meeting actors you've seen in many movies in real life?
Russell Crowe finds it strange and interesting, as he still feels like a fan even though he's in the same industry. He acknowledges that it's a common feeling for people who admire the work of others.
What is Russell Crowe's approach to choosing acting roles?
Russell Crowe prioritizes roles that resonate with him personally, even if they are not considered mainstream or commercially successful. He believes in the importance of connecting with a character on a deeper level and finding a personal attachment to the story.
What are the key principles of Russell Crowe's regenerative farming practices?
Russell Crowe emphasizes humane animal care, sustainable practices, and a focus on natural processes. He believes in treating animals with respect, minimizing their stress, and promoting their overall well-being. He also prioritizes organic pastures and avoids factory farming methods.
What is Russell Crowe's perspective on the controversy surrounding the film \"Noah\" and its connection to climate change?
Russell Crowe finds it bizarre that the film's message about the environment has become a political issue. He believes that the burning of fossil fuels has a clear and undeniable impact on the environment, and that it's important to address this issue objectively and without ideological bias.
What was Angelo Dundee's coaching style like?
Angelo Dundee was known for his positive attitude and inspiring coaching style. He believed in the power of positivity and discouraged holding grudges.
How did the speaker prepare for his role in \"Cinderella Man\"?
The speaker learned James J. Braddock's unique footwork, which involved moving his front foot first and not crossing his feet over. He also gained weight and trained extensively to physically embody the character.
What is the speaker's opinion of Austin, Texas?
The speaker is impressed by the significant changes he observes in Austin since his last visit in 2001. He notes the city's rapid growth and development, particularly downtown.
What was the speaker's experience like playing John Nash in \"A Beautiful Mind\"?
The speaker found playing John Nash, a character with schizophrenia, to be a challenging and intense experience. He learned about the physical tells associated with the disease and immersed himself in the character's world.
What are the potential benefits of stem cell therapy for cartilage regeneration?
Stem cell therapy has shown promise in regenerating cartilage tissue, potentially offering a solution for treating osteoarthritis and other joint conditions. Ongoing research is exploring the effectiveness of stem cells in promoting cartilage repair and reducing pain.
Show Notes
Russell Crowe is an actor, director, and musician, best known for his roles in "Gladiator," and "A Beautiful Mind." He’s currently touring the U.S. with his band Indoor Garden Party promoting their new album "Prose and Cons." Look for him in the upcoming film "Kraven the Hunter," set to be released on December 13.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Table of contents
United States
that was beyond enjoyable how he opened up after the first few minutes. it shows how really can relate to just about anyone when you get to know their core values. Joe this was a special one.
Mr. Gladiator.