Multiple studies now confirm a dramatic link between the health of our microbiome and our ability to combat viral illness. Today we explore this connection, with tools to promote gut health, optimize your immune system & prevent disease.Our host for today's exploration is the queen of all things gut health, Robynne Chutkan, MD.Dr. Chutkan is a board-certified gastroenterologist serving on the Georgetown University Hospital faculty. She is the founder of the Digestive Center for Wellness, as well as the author of 4 books on the microbiome, including her most recent, The Anti-Viral Gut, which offers practical advice for optimizing diet, exercise, sleep, and time outdoors to boost the body’s defenses and our overall health.Appearing for the 2nd time on the podcast, my initial conversation with Dr. Chutkan 7 years ago (RRP #192) dove into the nuts and bolts of the microbiome: what it is, how it functions, and how we can care for it. Today we zoom in, focusing on the antiviral aspects of gut health, why it’s so important, and what you can do about it.We’ve talked a lot about the microbiome on this podcast, but this exchange is truly a masterclass within itself. Watch: YouTube.Read: Show notes.I’ve known Robynne for many years—she is such a delightful presence. It was wonderful to have her back in the studio. Her expertise in communicating this subject matter is truly unparalleled, and I am excited to share this one with you. Enjoy!Peace + Plants,Rich

As 2022 comes to a close and a new year beckons, we are presented with an opportunity to reflect on the past twelve months. Explore new aspirations. And set intentions for the year to come. Allow me to indulge this truth by introducing Part Two of my annual yearbook—an auditory anthology of the year’s most compelling conversations. Enjoy the best of the year.Guest List + Full Episode Links: RRP 692: Malcolm Gladwell RRP 723: Mel Robbins RRP 715: Casey Neistat RRP 718: Whitney Cummings RRP 695: Peter Attia, MD RRP 678: Gemma Newman, MD RRP 702: Dr. Gabor Maté RRP 714: Robynne Chutkan, MD RRP 703: Max Fisher RRP 660: Sylvia Earle RRP 701: Ken Rideout RRP 694: Colin O’Brady & Jenna Besaw RRP 705: Paul Conti, MD RRP 670: Earthling Ed Winters RRP 681: Chip Conley Show notes + MOREWatch on YouTubeNewsletter Sign-UpPeace + Plants,Rich