Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee

Light Watkins, an internationally acclaimed meditation teacher and author, shares his insights on finding inspiration in everyday life. He discusses the evolution of his meditation practice, emphasizing personal comfort over rigidity. Light highlights his commitment to sending daily doses of inspiration and how this practice shaped his latest book. He encourages listeners to trust their inner guidance, embrace serendipity, and recognize that small steps can lead to significant changes in mindset and creativity.

In this engaging talk, Matthew Walker, a leading sleep researcher and author of 'Why We Sleep', emphasizes that sleep is the foundation of good health. He reveals how sleep deprivation can sabotage your diet and exercise goals, disrupt appetite hormones, and weaken your immune system. Matthew shares practical tips for better sleep, such as sticking to a consistent schedule and creating an optimal sleep environment. He also discusses the surprising ways caffeine can undermine your nighttime rest. Sleep like a champion!

Benjamin Francis Leftwich, a talented singer-songwriter known for his touching albums, shares his profound journey of recovery from addiction. He reflects on the clash between early fame and true happiness, revealing how superficial success left him feeling empty. Their conversation dives into the various forms of addiction in our lives, emphasizing the importance of authentic connections. Ben's new album, born from his sobriety, highlights music's healing power, while he offers insights on personal growth, vulnerability, and embracing community.

Dr. Mithu Storoni, a neuroscientist and author of ‘Stress-Proof,’ dives into the escalating stress epidemic we face today. She discusses how modern technology disrupts our natural stress management abilities and emphasizes the importance of movement to combat anxiety. Mithu shares practical daily routines, including evening habits and yoga, that can significantly reduce stress levels and enhance self-control. Listeners will gain actionable insights to foster resilience and improve their overall well-being.

In a captivating discussion, Dr. Herman Pontzer, an evolutionary biologist known for his pioneering research with the Hadza tribe in Tanzania, challenges common perceptions about metabolism and exercise. He reveals that despite their high levels of activity, Hadza members burn the same calories as less active populations. Pontzer emphasizes the body's energy expenditure adaptations and debunks myths around weight loss, while advocating for the benefits of movement for overall health. He also shares insights on traditional diets and personal narratives from his experiences with the Hadza.

Cal Newport, a professor of computer science and author of ‘Digital Minimalism’, shares insights on how digital technology impacts our ability to connect meaningfully. He discusses the erosion of solitude, emphasizing how constant digital noise leads to loneliness and anxiety. Newport highlights a 30-day digital detox experiment that revealed participants rediscovering joy in analog activities. He offers practical strategies to declutter our digital lives, encouraging small, intentional changes for richer, more fulfilling interactions in the real world.

In this engaging conversation, Steven Kotler, a journalist and author known for his expertise on flow states, shares insights on unlocking human potential. He discusses how anyone can achieve peak performance, emphasizing the significance of flow in enhancing productivity and happiness. Listeners learn about the neurochemistry behind flow, the balance of challenge and skill, and the importance of embracing struggles as part of growth. Kotler also highlights practical strategies, including nature walks and mindfulness, to help integrate flow into everyday life.

Matt Haig is a best-selling author and a prominent voice in mental health, sharing his personal journey through depression and anxiety. He discusses the rising rates of mental health issues and emphasizes the importance of open conversations about them. Haig challenges the stigma around mental health and explores the paradox of happiness, linking success to dissatisfaction. He also offers practical strategies for managing anxiety, highlighting the benefits of physical activity and creating personal space for reflection.

Daryl Edwards, a movement coach and founder of Primal Play, shares his inspiring transition from a sedentary office worker to advocating for joy in movement. Daniel Lieberman, a Harvard evolutionary biology professor, discusses the science behind our natural need to move. They explore how modern conveniences have led to sedentary lifestyles and emphasize the importance of rethinking movement as fun rather than a chore. The conversation encourages small, enjoyable activities that improve mental and physical health, highlighting the thrill of connecting with nature and community.

Rich Roll, an inspirational wellness advocate and best-selling author, shares his remarkable transformation from struggling with addiction to becoming a plant-based ultra-endurance athlete. He emphasizes the importance of finding one’s life purpose and how it can significantly enhance health and wellbeing. Roll discusses the value of embracing challenges for personal growth and the necessity of self-discovery through practices like journaling and meditation. His journey highlights that true fulfillment comes from inner growth rather than external success.