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
Jul 22, 2025 • 12min
Is Frozen Produce Healthier Than Fresh?
Wondering whether fresh or frozen vegetables are healthier? The discussion reveals that frozen produce can match the nutrition of fresh, especially when it comes to gut health, with a tip to include 30 different veggies in your diet. Plus, the podcast dives into the myths surrounding pink Himalayan salt, debunking claims about its health benefits and emphasizing the importance of moderation. Get ready to rethink your grocery choices!
32 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 26min
Should You ‘Lean Into’ Your Chronic Pain to Relieve It?
Dr. Sanjay Gupta chats with Eric Garland, a researcher and clinical therapist from UC San Diego, about innovative ways to tackle chronic pain. They discuss how mindfulness meditation can rival opioids without the nasty side effects. By leaning into pain instead of avoiding it, individuals can rewire their brains for lasting relief. The conversation highlights the emotional burdens of chronic pain, the significance of shifting focus to healthy body areas, and practical mindfulness techniques that can transform pain perception and daily living.
5 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 15min
When to Blame Aging—and When Not To
The podcast dives into the nuances of aging and what should be of concern. Dr. Sanjay Gupta addresses mobility and balance, emphasizing the importance of staying active to prevent falls. It also tackles the often-misunderstood condition of tinnitus, explaining its effects and management strategies. Listeners learn about practical solutions and the significance of early intervention. With insights on when to worry and when to adapt, this conversation offers valuable information for navigating the complexities of aging.
19 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 32min
Did you take your vitamins today? Maybe you don’t have to
Dr. Pieter Cohen, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard and expert in supplement safety, breaks down the complexities of the dietary supplement landscape. He discusses the lack of regulatory oversight and the hidden dangers of unapproved products. The conversation highlights the growing need for informed choices amidst rampant claims. Cohen emphasizes the importance of quality and efficacy in supplements like CoQ10 and turmeric. Ultimately, he urges listeners to be diligent in assessing what they really need for their health.
5 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 17min
Do We All Have a ‘Cancer Gene’?
A listener grapples with cancer risk after losing both parents to bone cancer. Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains the complexities of 'cancer genes' and the influence of lifestyle choices on genetic predisposition. The conversation shifts to sleep, tackling whether nightly sleep aids lead to worse outcomes than fragmented slumber. Insights into cognitive behavioral therapy for sleep improvement provide listeners with alternative strategies. Overall, it's a deep dive into understanding health risks and navigating personal wellbeing.
20 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 31min
How Surgeons Balance Hope with Honesty
David Sandberg, a retired pediatric neurosurgeon and author, shares his insights into the high-stakes world of children's surgery. He recounts a poignant Christmas Eve procedure that shaped his career and the emotional complexities in the operating room. The conversation dives into balancing hope and honesty when faced with challenging medical decisions, showcasing the inspiring journey of young patients like Garrett. Sandberg emphasizes the need for transparent communication and empathy in discussions with families, navigating the unpredictable landscape of pediatric neurosurgery.
9 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 16min
A Doctor-Approved Guide to the Sun This Summer
Discover the benefits of morning sunlight and how it can boost your mood and vitamin D levels. Learn the ins and outs of choosing the right sunscreen, including the difference between mineral and chemical options. Uncover common sunscreen application mistakes and effective tips for protecting your skin. Understand the importance of eye protection from sunlight and debunk myths about sun exposure. Get ready for a safe and sunny summer with essential sun safety strategies!
13 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 21min
The Man with the Pig Kidney
Tim Andrews, a medical pioneer, shares his groundbreaking journey of receiving a kidney transplant from a pig in January 2025. He discusses the emotional liberation from dialysis and the challenges he faces post-transplant, including medication regimens. The conversation dives into ethical dilemmas surrounding xenotransplantation and the response from religious communities, exploring the complex interplay of innovation and morality in medicine. Additionally, Tim highlights the promising future of personalized organ creation through advanced technologies, offering hope to countless patients.
5 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 14min
How Far Are We from Animal Organs Saving Lives?
Explore the fascinating field of xenotransplantation, where animal organs, particularly pig organs, are becoming viable for human use. Dr. Sanjay Gupta discusses groundbreaking advances like genetically engineered pig kidneys and their role in tackling the organ shortage crisis. The podcast dives into the compatibility of these organs with human cells, patient experiences, and ethical considerations. Discover how this cutting-edge technology might reshape the future of medicine and organ donation.
7 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 28min
The Organ Transplant Revolution Starts Here
Robert Montgomery is a pioneering transplant surgeon who not only received a heart transplant himself but also made headlines by performing the first pig kidney transplant in a brain-dead patient. In this discussion, he tackles the urgent organ transplant crisis, where over 100,000 people are on waiting lists. Montgomery highlights the potential of using genetically engineered animal organs, like pig kidneys, to combat shortages. He shares his personal journey through kidney failure and the ethical implications of xenotransplantation, offering a beacon of hope for those in need.
