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
8 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 16min
How AI Might Be Helping Your Doctor Treat You
Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing healthcare, from early diagnosis to enhancing doctor-patient interactions. Delve into the balance of optimism and skepticism surrounding AI's role in medicine. Learn about the complexities of pain management, including which medications work best for different types of pain. Get practical tips on safe pain relief and alternative strategies to improve your well-being. This engaging discussion sheds light on the future of medical care and pain management.
43 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 30min
The Answer to Pain May Lie in Your Brain
Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN's chief medical correspondent and a practicing neurosurgeon, dives into the complexities of chronic pain and its mental ramifications. He discusses his new book, emphasizing that pain is often subjective and hard to measure. Gupta explores innovative pain management strategies, including groundbreaking medications and the surprising benefits of exercise over rest. He encourages listeners to consider diet’s role in pain relief and the importance of community support, inspiring a hopeful outlook on living a pain-free life.
7 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 14min
Does Your “Filtered” Water Still Have Fluoride?
Filtered water might still contain fluoride—find out why conventional methods may fall short. Discover the surprising impact of diet on brain health as Dr. Sanjay Gupta shares brain-boosting foods. From omega-3s to colorful fruits and veggies, learn how your meals can enhance memory and cognitive function. Tune in for valuable insights on maintaining dental health and sharpening your mind!
8 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 22min
What Your Sweat Could Reveal About Your Health
In this chat, John Rogers, Director of Northwestern’s Querrey Simpson Institute for Bioelectronics, dives into the untapped potential of sweat as a health marker. He shares how sweat analysis could revolutionize personal health monitoring with insights into hydration, nutrition, and even emotional states. The conversation highlights innovative technologies like portable devices that can analyze sweat composition in real-time, paving the way for smarter health management. Get ready to see sweat in a whole new light!
10 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 12min
Billy Joel’s Brain Condition, Explained
Discover the intriguing diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, impacting older adults and even a music legend's career. Hear about the effect of this brain condition on mobility and daily life. Learn about misconceptions, symptoms, and how spinal taps play a role in treatment. The fascinating recovery story of a mother following a brain shunt procedure highlights the surgery's benefits and effectiveness. Tune in for valuable medical insights and personal anecdotes that shed light on this complex condition.
56 snips
May 30, 2025 • 38min
Unlock Your Memory by Memorizing Less
Dr. Charan Ranganath, a leading memory expert and professor at UC Davis, shares groundbreaking insights on how memorizing less can actually enhance memory capacity. He discusses the influence of emotions and personal beliefs in shaping our recollection of experiences. Ranganath also dives into the challenges posed by technology and AI, urging listeners to adapt their memory strategies in a data-saturated world. With practical tips for improving retention and understanding the power of emotional narratives, this discussion is a treasure trove for anyone eager to enhance their memory skills.
21 snips
May 27, 2025 • 13min
Worried About Prostate Cancer? Here’s What to Know.
Prostate cancer affects one in eight men, raising crucial questions about risk and screening. Dr. Sanjay Gupta delves into the nuances of PSA tests and when men should start getting screened. He reviews differing guidelines, particularly the recommendations for men over 70 and those at average risk. The conversation also highlights how genetics and family history play a role in risk factors. Lastly, the impact of diet, especially folate intake from natural sources, on prostate cancer risk is discussed.
44 snips
May 23, 2025 • 34min
How to Become a Super Ager
Dr. Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and founder of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, dives into the secrets of becoming a 'super ager.' He discusses the essential role of social connections and creative activities in maintaining vitality, even into your 80s. With groundbreaking advancements in AI and proteomics, he reveals how we can predict disease onset and enhance our health-span. Topol also emphasizes proactive health measures and lifestyle changes that can significantly improve longevity and overall well-being.
10 snips
May 20, 2025 • 16min
Wait…Is Whole Milk Actually Good for You Now?
The milk debate takes center stage as the host breaks down the health differences between whole, skim, and plant-based options. Discover which milk might actually be the best choice for you. Plus, the complexities of dreams are explored—should you wake someone having a nightmare? The insights on processing dreams and improving sleep quality add an intriguing twist to the discussion. And don't miss the fun facts about healthy snacking with pistachios!
14 snips
May 16, 2025 • 25min
How Pregnancy Reshapes the Brain
Dr. Laura Pritschet, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Pennsylvania, discusses the fascinating effects of pregnancy on the brain. She explains how hormonal shifts lead to significant neurological changes, enhancing maternal focus and caregiving abilities. The conversation also touches on neuroplasticity and how these adaptations can create both opportunities for emotional growth and vulnerabilities, particularly regarding mood. Pritschet emphasizes the importance of understanding these transformations to improve support for new mothers.
