Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee

Dr. Lisa Mosconi, a neuroscientist focused on brain health, reveals how dementia can start in midlife. She emphasizes the importance of lifestyle choices in preserving cognitive function. Simple strategies can lead to better brain health as we age. Mosconi champions the Mediterranean diet, rich in plant-based foods and healthy fats, as a key to cognitive longevity. Additionally, she highlights the power of enjoyable exercise in combating cognitive decline, making it clear that what we do today shapes our brain's future.

Dr. Julie Smith, a clinical psychologist and bestselling author, shares her insights on making therapy tools accessible through social media. She discusses how to build resilience and self-efficacy in mental health management. Unique topics include using mindfulness practices as a 'daily holiday' for perspective, the power of journaling for emotional clarity, and personalized self-soothing techniques. Julie emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability, managing mental well-being, and finding strength through movement in everyday life.

In this gripping conversation, John McAvoy, an endurance athlete and former armed robber, shares his incredible journey from a life of crime to becoming a record-breaking sportsman. John reveals how his challenging past shaped his identity and led to personal transformation. He discusses the mental resilience needed for endurance racing and the importance of overcoming adversity. With powerful reflections on guilt, redemption, and societal judgment, John inspires listeners to believe in the possibility of change and embrace compassion.

Jay Shetty, an award-winning storyteller and former monk, shares insights on the ‘monk mindset’ and how it can help lead a more authentic life. He discusses the impact of identity on self-perception and the dangers of seeking validation from others. Shetty emphasizes the importance of embracing self-identity and aligning actions with personal values for true fulfillment. He also highlights the transformative power of gratitude and innovative job crafting to find meaning even in challenging circumstances.

Oliver Burkeman, a journalist and author of *Four Thousand Weeks*, shares his insights on managing overwhelm and the concept of time. He discusses how many productivity hacks can lead to delusion rather than true effectiveness. By recognizing our finite time, we can prioritize what truly matters, shift towards intentional living, and embrace imperfections. He emphasizes that self-imposed limits can foster creativity, urging listeners to focus on meaningful pursuits instead of societal pressures for constant achievement.

Peter Crone, a renowned writer and thought leader in human potential, dives into transformative concepts around personal growth. He challenges limiting beliefs rooted in childhood and emphasizes the power of self-examination to unlock emotional freedom. The conversation touches on cultural differences in self-expression, and how compassion is vital for well-being in a hectic world. Crone also redefines success by urging listeners to embrace the present moment, fostering self-love, and navigating the emotional complexities of issues like obesity.

In this engaging discussion, Greg McKeown, a writer and speaker renowned for his book 'Effortless', shares insights on avoiding burnout in our fast-paced lives. He emphasizes the importance of asking ourselves one vital question daily to hone in on what truly matters. McKeown critiques the cultural glorification of exhaustion and offers practical strategies for setting boundaries, such as creating a 'done for the day' list. He also tells a heartwarming story illustrating the transformative power of reflecting on personal priorities.

Jonny Wilkinson, a rugby legend famous for his World Cup-winning kick, shares profound insights on success and happiness. He reveals how achieving your dreams doesn't always lead to fulfillment, discussing his journey from victories to a mental health crisis. Wilkinson emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, letting go of limiting beliefs, and finding joy in the present. He explores identity, the pressures of societal labels, and the true meaning of personal growth, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys.

Esther Perel, a leading voice on modern relationships, delves into how our connections shape our identities and happiness. She discusses the pressure to portray perfect relationships in today’s society and the importance of vulnerability in fostering deeper bonds. Perel emphasizes that there’s no such thing as a perfect relationship, highlighting the rhythm of harmony and disharmony. The conversation also touches on the evolution of love, the impact of social media on perceptions, and the value of daily rituals in nurturing intimacy.

In this engaging discussion, Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor specializing in happiness, reveals the surprising truths about joy and well-being. She emphasizes how happiness directly impacts our health and longevity, encouraging listeners to rethink their happiness sources. Santos shares insights on the significance of social connections, showing that even small interactions can elevate mood. She also explains how gratitude can transform happiness, offering practical tips to deepen social bonds and enhance overall satisfaction in life.