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
26 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 17min
Is Your Immune System Ready for Fall? Here’s How to Support It
Discover how classroom exposure can affect your immune health, especially for teachers and caregivers. Learn smart strategies to boost your immunity as the cold and flu season approaches. Dr. Sanjay Gupta shares tips on optimizing sleep, highlighting its crucial role in overall health. Explore practical advice on creating the perfect sleep environment and dietary changes that can enhance rest. Finally, get ready for fall by understanding essential nutrients that support your immune system.
13 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 32min
The Lessons of Katrina: Coping With the Next Crisis
Dr. Stefan Schulenberg, a clinical psychologist and director at the Disaster Mental Health Institute, shares profound insights on the long-lasting psychological effects of Hurricane Katrina. He delves into how trauma lingers and shapes resilience in the face of future disasters. The conversation emphasizes the vital role of community support, personal purpose, and proactive preparation for crises. Schulenberg highlights emotional complexities tied to traumatic anniversaries and shares inspiring stories of individuals who find meaning amid adversity. His expertise offers crucial lessons for coping with inevitable challenges ahead.
13 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 13min
The Belly Fat You Actually Need to Worry About
Not all belly fat is the same; some can be toxic. Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains the dangers of visceral fat lurking around organs and provides strategies to identify and manage it. He also discusses new blood pressure guidelines, emphasizing lifestyle changes over medication. From dietary tips to exercise recommendations, the insights offered can help improve overall health. Discover what belly fat matters and how to tackle it effectively!
38 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 29min
Exploring the Brain with 10-Year-Old ‘Sean the Science Kid’
10-year-old Sean Etichobe, known as Sean the Science Kid, shares his passion for science and dreams of becoming a neurocardio surgeon. He engages Dr. Sanjay Gupta in a delightful conversation about the brain's mysteries, discussing neuroplasticity and the connection between emotions and brain health. Sean also touches on the importance of memories and offers a whimsical theory about the universe. With humor and curiosity, he makes science accessible, proving that learning can be both fun and impactful.
26 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 13min
The New Healthy Blood Pressure Rules
Discover the latest changes in blood pressure guidelines, emphasizing early treatment and alcohol avoidance. The link between hypertension and dementia is unveiled, showcasing the importance of managing blood pressure for brain health. Learn about the nuances of morning sunlight exposure and how weather impacts vitamin D synthesis. Plus, delve into personalized sleep preferences and how smart beds cater to unique needs, ensuring a better night's rest for everyone.
24 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 28min
Parenting Has Changed. Here’s What You Need To Know
Dr. David Hill, a pediatrician and father of five, shares his expertise on modern parenting challenges. He discusses the importance of personalized approaches in child-rearing, emphasizing that every family is unique. The conversation tackles how technology impacts kids' mental health and addresses crucial topics like safe sleep practices and feeding choices. Hill also encourages parents to embrace the journey of child development without succumbing to societal pressures. Tune in to hear strategies for raising happy, healthy children in today’s world!
4 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 12min
Sanjay: No, That’s Not Me Hawking Cures
Dr. Sanjay Gupta dissects a viral deepfake claiming he found a cure for Alzheimer’s, providing tips to identify misinformation. He also tackles a listener's concern about prostate cancer metastasis, emphasizing the importance of monitoring symptoms and consulting healthcare professionals. The conversation touches on optimizing sleep with smart tech, highlighting how personalized features can boost health. Throughout, there's a strong call for skepticism toward sensational medical claims.
22 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 29min
Beyond Smiley Faces: A New Way to Diagnose Pain
Dr. Prasad Shirvalkar, a physician and innovative researcher, dives into groundbreaking techniques to better understand chronic pain by implanting electrodes in patients' brains. He discusses the challenges of diagnosing pain, introducing the idea of identifying biomarkers for more objective assessments. The conversation touches on the evolution of deep brain stimulation therapies, aiming to transform pain management and break free from the historical reliance on opioids. A fascinating blend of neuroscience and patient experiences could revolutionize how we treat pain.
12 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 11min
Can You Lower Your Risk for Dementia?
Discover the surprising connections between type 2 diabetes and cognitive decline, particularly for those over 70. Learn how simple lifestyle changes can significantly diminish dementia risk. Explore the impressive benefits of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental challenges. Hear about the cognitive boosts that come from learning new skills, such as playing an instrument or picking up a language. The podcast dives into effective strategies to keep your mind sharp and engaged for a healthier aging process.
27 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 31min
It's Not Your Metabolism's Fault
Kevin Hall, a former NIH researcher and food science expert, joins to challenge weight gain stigma. He dismantles common myths about metabolism, urging listeners to rethink popular dieting narratives. Hall emphasizes the complexities of obesity, highlighting the role of systemic health issues over simplistic calorie counting. He also discusses the nuanced perspectives on ultra-processed foods, advocating for a more holistic approach to nutrition. With insights from his book, he champions the importance of scientific validation in understanding food's true impact on our health.
