Elon Musk: From random drug tests to being caught smoking weed on-camera on Joe Rogan's podcast
AUSTIN, TEXAS: Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, once publicly shared that he was subjected to random drug tests following an incident in which he smoked marijuana during an episode of the JRE podcast.
This podcast, hosted by Joe Rogan, who transitioned from being a UFC commentator to a podcaster, gained considerable attention.
Notably, Musk was subsequently photographed smoking marijuana, even though he had previously stated that it was not conducive to productivity.
Musk's appearance on Rogan's podcast continues to be a remarkable and unforgettable moment for fans of the show.
Elon Musk underwent random drug tests after smoking on Joe Rogan's podcast
In June, The Wall Street Journal covered the revelation that Tesla CEO Elon Musk has openly discussed his use of small doses of ketamine as a potential treatment for depression.
Additionally, there have been sightings of him using the drug recreationally.
Musk had previously shared on Twitter that he had conversations with a significant number of individuals who found relief from their mental health issues through the use of psychedelics and ketamine, contrasting them with SSRIs and amphetamines, which are commonly prescribed for conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Musk wrote in a tweet, "I’ve talked to many more people who were helped by psychedelics & ketamine than SSRIs & amphetamines."
I’ve talked to many more people who were helped by psychedelics & ketamine than SSRIs & amphetamines
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 30, 2022
Musk garnered widespread attention when he smoked marijuana on Joe Rogan's podcast in 2018.
In a revelation made on the "Full Send" podcast in 2022, Musk disclosed that the federal government mandated him and other members of SpaceX's staff to undergo random drug testing for a year following his appearance.
This requirement aimed to demonstrate that they were not dependent on drugs.
This measure stemmed from the fact that employees at companies receiving federal contracts, such as SpaceX, are prohibited from using drugs in the workplace, even though Musk's interview with Rogan had taken place in California, where marijuana is legally permitted.
The exchange commenced with Rogan mentioning to Musk that he had purchased a small container in Mexico with the intention of using it to store joints. Subsequently, he produced a large joint and proceeded to light it.
In the podcast, Musk inquired of Rogan whether the item in question was a joint or a cigar.
Rogan clarified that it contained marijuana wrapped in tobacco, and he inquired if Musk had ever tried it. Musk recalled, "Yeah I think I tried one once." In response, Rogan playfully chided, "Come on, man," eliciting a laugh from Musk.
Rogan went on to inquire if Musk refrained from taking a drag due to considerations for stockholders. In response, Musk commented, "I mean it's legal, right?" just before taking a drag.
Elon Musk smoked weed on Joe Rogan's podcast after asserting it is not helpful for productivity
Musk found himself subject to inquiries concerning his association with marijuana.
Some individuals speculated that he could have been influenced by the substance when he posted about the potential privatization of Tesla, as he proposed a share price of $420, a value linked to April 20th, commonly known as "4/20," a date associated with marijuana.
Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 7, 2018
In an interview with the New York Times, Musk countered allegations of having used marijuana at the time of his tweet.
He made it clear to the newspaper that he does not have a fondness for the drug and articulated his belief that marijuana does not enhance productivity.
Musk elaborated on this to the New York Times by stating, "Weed is not helpful for productivity. There's a reason for the word 'stoned.' You just sit there like a stone on weed." You just sit there like a stone on weed."