Joe Rogan recalls his 'worst podcast ever'

Joe Rogan, in a candid moment on his podcast, recently labeled his May 13 conversation with renowned Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass as "the worst podcast I have ever done."

The episode was intended to delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt, but became a contentious exchange that has since sparked widespread discussion among listeners and experts alike.

Dr. Hawass, a former Minister of Antiquities in Egypt, joined Rogan to discuss recent claims by Italian researchers Corrado Malanga, Filippo Biondi, and Armando Mei. The team had released satellite images suggesting the existence of massive vertical shafts and potential underground structures beneath the Khafre pyramid at Giza.


During the podcast, Rogan pressed Dr. Hawass on these claims, referencing the satellite imagery and the use of tomographic radar technology.

However, Dr. Hawass dismissed the findings as "bulls***," stating, "I'm not a scientist," and repeatedly directing Rogan to his own publications for answers.

This approach frustrated both Rogan and his audience, with the podcaster remarking, "Just to see this closed-minded fellow that's been in charge of gatekeeping all the knowledge about Egypt."

The tension escalated when Rogan brought up the Tomb of Osiris, an ancient underground burial complex in Giza. Dr. Hawass, who had explored the tomb in 2008, downplayed the significance of the radar findings, leading Rogan to question the archaeologist's openness to new methodologies.

Listeners took to social media to express their disappointment, noting Dr. Hawass's frequent interruptions and evasive answers. One user commented, "He literally couldn't let Joe finish one sentence." The episode has since been widely criticized, with many labeling Dr. Hawass as Rogan's most challenging guest to date.

Dr. Hawass has long been a critic of figures like Graham Hancock, who advocate for unconventional interpretations of ancient history. Their contentious relationship dates back to a 2015 debate in Egypt, where Dr. Hawass abruptly exited the stage during Hancock's presentation.