The 12 Books of Christmas | Jordan Stephens on Love, Chaos and Becoming a Man
Intelligence Squared
Deep Dive
Why did Jordan Stephens choose to write his memoir now?
Jordan's memoir, 'Avoidance, Drugs, Heartbreak & Dogs,' explores his journey through fame, addiction, and self-discovery. Writing the book allowed him to confront and integrate the pain and trauma he had repressed, and it serves as a testament to his growth and healing.
What was Jordan Stephens' experience with fame like during his time with Rizzle Kicks?
Jordan experienced immense success with Rizzle Kicks, selling over 1 million singles and 600,000 albums in 2012. However, this success was accompanied by personal struggles, including self-harm, hedonism, and destructive ideas of masculinity.
How did Jordan Stephens celebrate the completion of his memoir?
Jordan celebrated the completion of his memoir by eating a massive croissant, which he described as a significant and memorable moment of indulgence.
What were some of the challenges Jordan faced while writing his book?
Jordan struggled with procrastination and distraction, often finding himself down YouTube rabbit holes or engaging in other activities instead of writing. He also faced the challenge of remaining focused due to his ADHD diagnosis.
How does Jordan Stephens view the act of cheating in relationships?
Jordan believes that cheating exists in a space of moral ambiguity and should be discussed more openly. He argues that people who cheat are often dealing with their own duality and unresolved issues, and that the conversation around infidelity is too black and white.
What role did drugs play in Jordan Stephens' life, and how does he view them now?
Drugs, particularly alcohol and cocaine, were a significant part of Jordan's life, often serving as a form of escapism. However, he now views alcohol as damaging and has been sober for six years. He differentiates between recreational drugs and psychedelics like DMT, which he considers more therapeutic.
What insights did Jordan gain from his DMT experiences?
Jordan's DMT experiences were profound, leading him to feel a sense of unity and joy that he had never encountered before. He described leaving his physical body and entering a state of complete bliss, which helped him gain a new perspective on life and the human condition.
How does Jordan Stephens view masculinity and toxic masculinity?
Jordan has stopped using the term 'toxic masculinity,' preferring to focus on encouraging boys and men to have a healthier relationship with themselves. He believes that hyper-masculinity is a more accurate term and that the focus should be on promoting love and harmony rather than toxic behaviors.
What impact did time have on Jordan Stephens' life during his struggles?
Jordan found that having too much time, combined with the pressures of fame and productivity, led to feelings of isolation and pain. He struggled to cope with unresolved emotions and grief, which intensified during periods of inactivity.
How did music influence Jordan Stephens' life and career?
Music played a crucial role in Jordan's life, starting from his childhood. His parents, especially his mother, nurtured his love for music, which became a form of escape and self-expression. His early experiences with performing, such as lip-syncing to 'Thong Song,' helped him discover his passion for entertainment.
- Memoir explores addiction, heartbreak, and masculinity.
- Honest depiction of infidelity and its consequences.
- Moral ambiguity is a central theme.
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