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
18 snips
Nov 29, 2024 • 28min
Debunking Conspiracies This Thanksgiving? Let AI Help.
Thomas Costello, an assistant professor of psychology at American University and co-author of a groundbreaking study on AI chatbots, dives into the intriguing intersection of technology and conspiracy theories. He reveals how an AI chatbot can engage people holding strong conspiracy beliefs and foster critical thinking. Costello discusses the effectiveness of these digital tools in debunking misinformation, particularly during emotionally charged gatherings like Thanksgiving. He emphasizes the importance of using technology responsibly to promote open dialogue and encourage fact-checking.
11 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 38min
Our Food Keeps Getting Recalled. Here’s What to Do.
In this engaging discussion, food safety expert Dr. Don Schaffner, a distinguished professor at Rutgers, unpacks the alarming rise in food recalls, including the tragic listeria outbreak affecting deli meats and E. coli concerns linked to McDonald's onions. He sheds light on the complexities of tracing foodborne illnesses and the essential role of technology in improving safety. Dr. Schaffner also shares invaluable tips for consumers to protect their families, from safe food handling practices to staying updated on recalls.
15 snips
Nov 15, 2024 • 25min
What it’s Like to Take an Alzheimer’s Test
Dr. Sanjay Gupta embarks on a personal journey to understand his risks for Alzheimer’s disease, examining genetic markers and lifestyle factors. Inspiring stories highlight how lifestyle changes can impact Alzheimer’s progression. The podcast addresses the complexities of Alzheimer’s testing, emphasizing the emotional toll of test results. Listeners discover actionable steps to promote cognitive health, including new advancements in at-home assessments and the potential of blood tests to detect the disease early.
15 snips
Nov 8, 2024 • 31min
Why There’s More Hope for Alzheimer’s
In this engaging discussion, Chi Chi Zerbe, a resilient matriarch and participant in groundbreaking Alzheimer’s research, shares her family's emotional journey battling the disease. She highlights innovative lifestyle changes that have shown promise in reversing cognitive decline. The conversation dives into the hope brought by new treatments, including monoclonal antibodies, and personal stories of those finding connections amid the challenges. Chi Chi's tale serves as a beacon of optimism for families navigating Alzheimer's.
26 snips
Nov 1, 2024 • 41min
How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Polarized World
Peter T. Coleman, a social psychologist and author at Columbia University, dives into how to tackle difficult conversations in today’s polarized world. He explains the evolution of our brains in managing conflict and the ineffectiveness of compromise in some scenarios. The discussion emphasizes fostering dialogue amid cultural divisions and highlights the importance of empathy and understanding opposing perspectives. With insights from his conflict lab, Coleman offers strategies to navigate moral disagreements and improve communication in intense discussions.
Oct 25, 2024 • 35min
The Bittersweet Truth About Sugar
Laura Schmidt, a sociologist and health policy expert at UC San Francisco, dives into America’s sugar obsession. She discusses the health risks associated with high sugar consumption, including obesity and diabetes, while debunking myths around sugar addiction. Laura emphasizes the challenges of cutting back on sugar in a sugary food environment and promotes innovative strategies for healthier habits, especially for children. She highlights the importance of moderation over vilification, aiming for a guilt-free enjoyment of sweets.
Oct 18, 2024 • 37min
Self-Exams Matter: Why These TV Powerhouses Say Don’t Skip Them
In a heartfelt discussion, Sara Sidner, CNN journalist and stage three breast cancer survivor, shares her raw journey alongside Ananda Lewis, a former MTV host and content creator also battling breast cancer. They explore the emotional rollercoaster of diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of self-examinations and early detection. The friends delve into personal advocacy, coping mechanisms, and the need for open conversations about health. Amidst challenges, they highlight the joy of living life fully and the power of support during such tumultuous times.
14 snips
Oct 11, 2024 • 37min
Stressed Parents? Dr. Becky Wants to Help.
Dr. Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and parenting expert known for her impactful work online, joins Dr. Sanjay Gupta to tackle the realities of stressed parenting. They dive into how parents can manage intense feelings of overwhelm and burnout. The conversation emphasizes fostering emotional intelligence in children while navigating modern challenges, like screen time limits. Personal anecdotes from both guests highlight the common pitfalls in parenting, reminding listeners that it’s okay to make mistakes while striving for growth.
5 snips
Oct 4, 2024 • 39min
The Secret Lives of Neurosurgeons
Dr. Theodore Schwartz, a leading neurosurgeon and author known for his expertise in skull-based surgery, shares gripping insights into the mind of a neurosurgeon. He discusses the intricate journey of becoming a surgeon, highlighting the emotional challenges and dedication required. The dialogue dives into the revolutionary role of AI in neurosurgery and its promise for future practices. Additionally, they explore brain-computer interfaces that blur the lines of free will and how COVID-19 impacts memory, revealing the complexities of the human brain.
Sep 27, 2024 • 37min
A New Era for Cannabis and What It Could Mean for You
Dr. Staci Gruber, an Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and director of the MIND program, dives into the recent U.S. proposal to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. She explains the potential impacts on research and healthcare, highlighting its medicinal value. Gruber shares poignant patient stories that emphasize the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, particularly for severe conditions. The conversation also touches on the historical shift in cannabis legality and the ongoing challenges of understanding its full potential.
