Chasing Life
CNN Podcasts
All over the world, there are people who are living extraordinary lives, full of happiness and health – and with hardly any heart disease, cancer or diabetes. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has been on a decades-long mission to understand how they do it, and how we can all learn from them. Scientists now believe we can even reverse the symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia, and in fact grow sharper and more resilient as we age. Sanjay is a dad – of three teenage daughters, he is a doctor - who operates on the brain, and he is a reporter with more than two decades of experience - who travels the earth to uncover and bring you the secrets of the happiest and healthiest people on the planet – so that you too, can Chase Life.
Episodes
Mentioned books
20 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 34min
A New Understanding of Parkinson’s Disease
Dr. Michael Okun, a leading neurologist and co-director of the Norman Fixel Institute, dives into the complexities of Parkinson's disease. He reveals alarming links between environmental toxins—like air pollution and pesticides—and the rising cases of this neurodegenerative disorder. Okun discusses the need for a prevention mindset, offering practical advice for individuals to reduce risk. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding Parkinson's beyond just dopamine, urging further research and awareness about its root causes.
16 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 14min
Can Collagen Supplements Make Me Look Younger?
Discover the science behind collagen supplements and what they may or may not do for aging skin. Dr. Sanjay Gupta delves into studies showing modest benefits for hydration and elasticity. He also emphasizes safety tips, like using sunscreen and avoiding smoking. Additionally, learn about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a noninvasive treatment for hard-to-treat depression, including how it works, its effectiveness, and practical considerations for those considering this innovative therapy.
8 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 28min
How to Identify Medical Misinformation & Fake AI Ads
Dr. Sanjay Gupta, a renowned neurosurgeon and CNN chief medical correspondent, shares his shocking experience as a victim of AI deepfake ads promoting fake health products. He discusses the dramatic shift in health information from traditional media to social platforms, highlighting how misinformation is often monetized through sensational claims. Gupta offers tips for spotting red flags in health claims, stressing the importance of emotional awareness and verification. He emphasizes the need for reliable sources to navigate today's confusing medical landscape.
5 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 13min
How to Safely Store Your Leftovers
Dr. Sanjay Gupta dives into the essential art of handwashing, emphasizing that 20 seconds with soap can significantly reduce harmful pathogens. He warns against washing raw meat, which can spread bacteria, and shares tips on proper food storage. Listeners learn about refrigerating leftovers promptly and the two-hour rule for cooling large portions safely. He advises using glass instead of hot plastic to avoid leaching. This informative discussion combines festive cooking tips with crucial food safety practices.
23 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 26min
What If Comfort Food Could Help You Live to 100?
Dan Buettner, an explorer and National Geographic Fellow, discusses his research on Blue Zones—areas where people live the longest. He reveals how food choices driven by taste, rather than willpower, can enhance longevity. Dan shares insights on affordable, plant-based recipes that reflect healthy habits and highlights findings from an AI analysis of America's favorite flavors. Discover how small changes in our environment can foster healthier living and why he promotes meat as an occasional treat in the quest for longevity.
14 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 17min
What You Need to Know About Hormone Therapy
Dr. Mary Claire Haver, an OB-GYN and certified menopause practitioner, joins to discuss the FDA's potential removal of the black box warning on hormone treatments for menopause. They explore the implications of this decision and emphasize the importance of clinical evaluations for symptoms rather than relying solely on blood tests. Additionally, they provide insights on when to start hormone therapy, its duration, alternatives for those who can’t take HRT, and the roles of non-hormonal medications in alleviating menopause symptoms.
23 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 37min
Anchoring Autism: How a Father’s Devotion Helped His Son Adapt to the World
Leland Vittert, a seasoned broadcast journalist and author of "Born Lucky," shares his heartfelt journey with autism, focusing on the unwavering support from his father. He candidly discusses how his family navigated the stigma of the 1980s and his father's innovative teaching methods for social skills. Vittert also reflects on his challenging entry into television, the nuanced views on autism today, and the resilience forged through adversity. His story underscores the importance of parental love and hope, resonating deeply with listeners.
20 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 12min
Do Bluetooth Headphones Cause Cancer?
Bluetooth headphones are everywhere, but are they dangerous? Dr. Sanjay Gupta clarifies that the cancer risk is minimal due to the type of radiation they emit. He also shares practical tips to reduce wireless exposure, like using speakerphone and wired headsets. On another note, Gupta delves into the world of protein shakes, revealing that they can lead to poor nutrition as they are often ultra-processed. He emphasizes that most people can meet their protein needs through whole food sources.
37 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 28min
Can Your Smart Watch Actually Help You Live Longer?
Dr. Sumbul Desai, Vice President of Health at Apple and a clinical associate professor at Stanford Medicine, discusses the transformative potential of wearable technology for health. She shares insights on how devices like the Apple Watch can detect irregular heartbeats and hypertension, acting as 'intelligent guardians' for users. Desai highlights the significance of data integration with physicians and explains how innovations like AirPods are evolving into accessible hearing tools. Their conversation sheds light on the future of preventive healthcare.
12 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 17min
Do Imported Organic Foods Live Up to their Labels?
Explore the intriguing world of organic food imports and uncover how truly authentic those labels are. Learn about the USDA's standards for organic farming and the challenges of certifying imported goods. Dive into concerns over potential fraud and the skepticism surrounding these claims. The discussion also ventures into the realm of grounding sheets, their purported health benefits, and the shaky scientific evidence behind them. Is grounding a miracle cure or just a trend? Tune in to find out!
