Eh. I don't think it's that conscious. It's just the way it is. Same as any time an alpha male is the center of attention. A podcast is a form of entertainment and has to be kept moving and paced properly. Joe often has to drive the podcast and keep it entertaining. When a guest comes on that can carry that load - he lets them do it. Perfect examples are the Mayhem episodes, Joey Diaz, Hal Sparks, Duncan Trussel, and others.
I don't think Rogan's consciously trying to be the main man in the room either, he just clashes a lot with people's opinion and thinks he holds a superior opinion. He doesn't argue like a child or anything, it's just that sometimes you shouldn't challenge another guys opinion when you're coming out with stuff just as wacky. I mean, Mayhem was essentially hyping a fight with Diaz and Rogan was jumping in saying "no that's not true" or whatever. I appreciate he's a commentator and knows his ****, but Mayhem one ups you because he actually fights in there plus he's just hyping a fight. It's like Rampage coming on and insulting Rashad and saying some **** talk and then Rogan jumping in and saying "no, that's not true" and trying to shut him down.
They both seemed kind of bummed out talking about Fedor. Moved on quickly - but neither one said they thought he should keep fighting.