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
Feb 6, 2026 • 29min
How You Can Stay Motivated to Exercise
Dr. Diana Hill, clinical psychologist and co-author of I Know I Should Exercise, But 44 Reasons We Don't Move, explains why we avoid movement and how to find personal motivation. She discusses mindset shifts from either/or thinking, temptation bundling with phones, home tweaks to reduce inactivity, making tiny doable movement habits, and anchoring activity to personal values and relationships.
19 snips
Feb 3, 2026 • 18min
What to Know Before Trying Cannabis for Arthritis Pain
They explore microdosing CBD and THC for arthritis and nighttime flare-ups, including who might benefit and dosing cautions. Legal status, drug interactions, and age-related metabolism are discussed. The conversation then pivots to lifestyle interventions for early cognitive decline, covering diet, exercise, stress reduction, and a notable trial showing stabilization and improvement.
50 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 31min
Why You Should Brush Your Teeth Before Breakfast
Dr. Kami Hoss, a dentist, orthodontic specialist and author, explains smart oral care for whole-body health. He covers fluoride’s role, a before-breakfast routine of mouthwash and tongue cleaning, flossing and night protection, and alternatives like nano‑hydroxyapatite. He also discusses breath sources, whitening options, and why prevention should get more attention.
23 snips
Jan 27, 2026 • 17min
Should You Eat Before or After Strength-Training?
Clear guidance on meal timing and protein needs around strength training, including recommended protein amounts and a flexible post-workout window. Discussion on the effects of training fasted and the importance of hydration. Exploration of common types and causes of hair loss in women and the diagnostic steps and treatment options dermatologists consider.
33 snips
Jan 23, 2026 • 30min
What Matters to You? A New Way to Heal
Join Sanjay Gupta as he chats with Julia Hatz, author of The Connection Cure and a journalist dedicated to social prescribing. They delve into the transformative power of asking patients, 'What matters to you?' Julia explains how linking health to community activities like volunteering and nature can enhance healing. They discuss compelling research on loneliness as a physical ailment and how social connections boost well-being. Real-life examples illustrate the practical impacts, while Julia shares insights on funding and the future of social prescriptions in America.
23 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 19min
Cold Plunges: What the Science Shows
Discover the intriguing world of cold plunges as Dr. Sanjay Gupta explores their potential benefits and risks for inflammation. Hear about the mixed findings from scientific studies on cold water immersion and its effects. Learn practical safety tips for trying cold plunges, including consulting a doctor and starting slowly. The podcast also dives into the science of why we itch, covering common causes, neurological triggers, and the addictive nature of scratching. Gupta wraps up with practical treatments for chronic itching.
9 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 26min
How Far Would You Go to Replace Your Body? Mary Roach Has Thoughts
In this engaging conversation, Mary Roach, a renowned science writer known for her humorous exploration of anatomy, dives into her latest work, Replaceable You. She discusses the fascinating history of prosthetics, from ancient nose surgeries to modern 3D-printed tissues. Roach also shares insights on elective amputations and the evolution of smart prosthetics, battling infection risks, and the future of xenotransplantation. Her humorous take on these topics makes the complex ethical conversations surrounding body replacements both accessible and intriguing.
16 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 14min
Why Does Everyone Have the Flu?
Meg Tirrell, a CNN medical correspondent specializing in infectious diseases and public health, joins Dr. Sanjay Gupta to dissect this year's unprecedented flu season. They explore the new K subclade of the virus and discuss how vaccine mismatches impact protection. Tirrell emphasizes the importance of early flu testing and the role of antivirals like Tamiflu in treatment. Additionally, Sanjay breaks down the latest dietary guidelines, stressing a shift towards whole foods and limiting ultra-processed options.
50 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 30min
Why You're Breathing Wrong, and How to Fix It
Journalist James Nestor, renowned for his work on breathing, dives deep into the hidden impacts of how we breathe. He reveals that chronic issues like anxiety and even facial structure can stem from dysfunctional breathing. Nestor shares simple yet transformative breathing techniques, emphasizing the advantages of nasal breathing and proper tongue posture. He highlights the effects of diet on mouth shape, and even connects poor sleep with ADHD. With practical tips to improve health through breathwork, Nestor inspires listeners to rethink their breathing habits.
Jan 6, 2026 • 18min
Can Sense of Smell Be Recovered After Covid-19?
The podcast explores the intriguing connection between COVID-19 and loss of smell, detailing how common it has become. Dr. Sanjay Gupta discusses olfactory neuron regeneration and the potential for recovery through smell training. Listeners hear expert insights on cannabis-related vomiting, known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, and the unique challenges it presents. Gupta also sheds light on rising cases linked to higher THC potency and emphasizes that abstaining from cannabis is the only true solution.
