The Rich Roll Podcast

Will Ahmed, the founder and CEO of Whoop, shares his journey from an overtrained college athlete to the leader of a billion-dollar fitness tech company. He dives into the significance of heart rate variability in recovery, revealing how even small improvements can enhance athletic performance. Will also discusses the transformative power of meditation in managing stress and improving decision-making. The conversation unveils how wearable technology is unlocking human potential and emphasizes finding balance between data usage and personal well-being.

Join three-time World Surf League Champion John John Florence as he shares his incredible journey in the surfing world. He opens up about stepping away from competition at his peak, highlighting the importance of surrendering control for true mastery. John John discusses balancing the pressures of fame with fatherhood and the profound life lessons he's learned from the ocean. His insights on transforming pressure into presence are both enlightening and inspiring, making this a deeply introspective conversation about the spiritual side of surfing.

Will Bulsiewicz, a leading gastroenterologist and microbiome researcher, discusses how fiber can boost cancer survival rates and the significant role the microbiome plays in health. Tim Spector reveals how gut bacteria may influence aging and cancer resilience. Robynne Chutkan emphasizes how our gut shapes immune responses, shedding light on connections between gut health and mental well-being. Together, they challenge dietary myths and underscore the importance of whole foods in optimizing both physical and mental health.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Laurie Santos, a renowned psychology professor at Yale, reveals why our perceptions of happiness often miss the mark. She discusses the mental health crisis among young people and the disconnect between understanding happiness and applying it. Santos introduces practical strategies like negative visualization to foster gratitude and authentic joy. The episode also highlights the impact of social media on self-esteem and emphasizes finding purpose through discomfort and genuine connections for lasting fulfillment.

Ethan Suplee, known for his roles in My Name is Earl and American History X, shares his transformative journey from addiction and obesity to wellness. He dives into the complexities of food addiction and the myths surrounding quick fixes. Ethan candidly discusses his struggles with relapses and the importance of mental health in recovery. He emphasizes the need for self-compassion while navigating life's challenges and the significant role of honest connections in achieving lasting change.

Adam Skolnick, co-host of 'Roll On' episodes, shares his journey through spinal fusion surgery and the valuable recovery insights gained from embracing stillness. He discusses the emotional hurdles of healing, the challenge of redefining productivity, and the importance of self-compassion in a fast-paced world. They dive into navigating chaos in LA, touching on immigrant challenges and the necessity of community support. Skolnick also reflects on how slowing down can lead to deeper self-discovery and enhance presence amidst modern distractions.

Bob Roth, America's foremost meditation teacher and executive director of The David Lynch Foundation, shares his 50+ years of experience with Transcendental Meditation (TM). He discusses how just 20 minutes a day can drastically reduce stress and transform your brain. The conversation touches on the neuroscience behind meditation and its role in personal clarity, creativity, and resilience. Roth emphasizes that meditation is not just a luxury but a necessary survival tool in today’s fast-paced world, especially in the era of AI.

Dr. Matthew Nagra, a Vancouver-based naturopathic doctor and nutrition researcher, challenges prevalent dietary myths. He dismantles misconceptions around seed oils and advocates for the benefits of a plant-based diet. Delving into the debate of plant vs. animal protein, he clarifies that plant proteins can match muscle-building needs effectively. Nagra also critiques the confusion surrounding LDL cholesterol and heart health, promoting a balanced understanding of dietary fats. This lively discussion shines a light on separating science from misinformation in nutrition.

Darin Olien, a wellness expert known for his role in Netflix's "Down to Earth," dives into the hidden dangers of everyday products. He discusses his book "Fatal Conveniences," revealing the shocking risks of toxins lurking in items we use daily. From deodorants to cleaning supplies, Darin emphasizes the presence of harmful chemicals like PFAS and the need for consumer awareness. He advocates for mindful choices and offers practical swaps for healthier living, making this talk both enlightening and empowering.

Craig Mod, an artist, author, and photographer with 25 years in Japan, shares his transformative experience of walking over 300 miles as a form of inner cartography. He discusses how walking helped him reconcile adoption trauma and connect with his roots, leading to a profound reunion with his birth mother. The conversation delves into Japanese concepts of 'yōyū' and empathy, the cultural nuances of Japan versus the West, and how movement fosters clarity and meaning in life. His journey redefines grief, connection, and personal growth through undistracted presence.