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
11 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 35min
The Year in News: Deepfakes, MAHA & AI
In a whirlwind discussion, the hosts tackle the societal impact of AI and the emerging Maha culture. They highlight the everyday adoption of AI and its potential downsides, particularly for children’s mental health. The conversation shifts to AI in medicine, discussing both benefits and risks, including concerns over training data. Deepfakes and their implications for health scams spark a lively debate. Amid rising skepticism, the group emphasizes the importance of verified human interactions and the resurgence of offline communities.
20 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 12min
Sanjay’s Top 10 Health Stories of 2025
In a year fraught with public health challenges, fascinating stories emerged. Sanjay discusses the alarming resurgence of measles and the political ramifications of vaccine hesitancy. He explores the FDA's elimination of black box warnings for hormone therapy and dives into the implications of a groundbreaking pig kidney transplant. A new, non-opioid pain medication derived from fire-walking genetics shows promise, while a blood test for early Alzheimer’s detection offers hope. Meanwhile, aging school facilities contribute to lead exposure issues among children.
25 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 29min
How Storytelling Shapes the Way You Remember the Holidays
Dr. Signe Sheldon, an associate professor of psychology at McGill University, dives into the fascinating world of memory and storytelling. She reveals why siblings often have differing recollections of the same event due to the flexible nature of memory. The conversation explores how perceptual and conceptual rememberers differ in storytelling styles and brain function. Signe also shares tips for meaningful holiday storytelling, emphasizing that retelling can reshape memories and the importance of framing expectations during the holidays.
30 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 16min
Should We Be Drinking Cow’s Milk?
Dr. Sanjay Gupta dives into the ongoing debate about cow's milk consumption for adults, exploring its historical roots and nutritional benefits. He highlights key nutrients found in milk, while also addressing mixed evidence about its health effects. The discussion includes lactose intolerance and growing interest in plant-based alternatives. Additionally, Gupta sheds light on the health risks facing night shift workers, emphasizing the importance of managing light exposure and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
16 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 19min
Why Haven't We Cured the Common Cold?
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Arnold Monto, a veteran in public health and respiratory illnesses, and Dr. Gary McLean, an immunologist specializing in rhinovirus immunity, delve into the mystery of why the common cold remains uncured. They explore the economic burden of colds and the historical efforts to understand them, including the challenges posed by viral diversity. Dr. McLean shares insights on new T cell-focused vaccine approaches aimed at improving immunity, while they both discuss the complexities of traditional vaccine failures and potential future breakthroughs.
8 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 17min
Why Everyone’s Talking About Mouth Taping
A new sleep trend is buzzing: mouth taping. Advocates claim it enhances breathing, promotes deeper sleep, and boosts morning energy. But is it safe? The discussion dives into the science behind this viral method while addressing potential health risks, especially for those with sleep apnea. Plus, a listener's query about calcium supplements for bone loss leads to a detailed look at osteopenia, testosterone's limited effectiveness on bone density, and daily calcium recommendations. It's a fascinating exploration of trendy health hacks!
25 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.
