The Rich Roll Podcast

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.

Mike Birbiglia, a master storyteller and acclaimed comedian behind Netflix hits, dives into the art of storytelling in this engaging conversation. He discusses the importance of empathy, sharing personal anecdotes about parenting and family dynamics. Mike emphasizes the creative process as a journey of vulnerability and presence rather than performance. Listeners will discover how humor and narrative intertwine to forge deeper connections in today's divided world, making this an enlightening exploration of creativity and community.

Dr. Matthew Walker, a prominent neuroscientist and sleep expert, dives deep into the vital role sleep plays in our well-being, asserting that it's not a luxury but a biological necessity. He discusses the severe consequences of sleep deprivation on mental and physical health, including its impact on memory and mood. The conversation also explores practical strategies for enhancing sleep quality and the common misconceptions surrounding sleep needs. Get ready to rethink your relationship with rest and recognize sleep as your ultimate superpower!

Stuart McMillan, an elite track and field coach and CEO of ALTIS, has guided over 70 Olympians to success. He discusses the art and science of sprinting, emphasizing speed as a true expression of human potential. McMillan explains the balance of intensity and grace in movement and the importance of mindset, especially the showmanship of sprinters. He also highlights the significance of personalized coaching and recovery in training, urging athletes to find their unique motivations beyond just medals.

Dr. Judith Joseph, a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and clinical professor at NYU, dives deep into the complexities of high-functioning depression. She discusses the paradox of achievement and joy, revealing how success can mask emotional struggles. Judith introduces her transformative '5 V's' framework for regaining joy and emphasizes the significance of acknowledging trauma. The conversation tackles self-care strategies and the unique challenges of women in the workplace, encouraging a proactive approach to mental health and the rewriting of personal narratives for a fulfilling life.

Paul Hawken is a renowned environmentalist and bestselling author known for his works on sustainable practices. In this enlightening discussion, he delves into the complex relationship between carbon and life, emphasizing nature's intrinsic intelligence. Paul challenges traditional narratives about climate change, advocating for a more compassionate approach that prioritizes interconnectedness. He shares insights on mycelial networks as Earth's connectors, and encourages humility and wonder as vital tools for fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Kate Courtney, a world champion mountain biker and Olympian, shares her unique athletic philosophy and insights from her journey in cycling. She discusses her memorable torch moment with Tom Cruise and the balance between data and intuition in competitive sports. Kate emphasizes redefining success beyond traditional metrics, the importance of personal joy in the struggle, and her She Sends Racing initiative, which empowers women in cycling. Her powerful stories offer valuable life lessons on resilience, mentorship, and embracing the journey.

Ky Dickens, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, dives into the captivating world of her podcast, "The Telepathy Tapes." She unveils her journey from skeptic to believer in telepathy among non-speaking autistic individuals. The conversation tackles the extraordinary communication capabilities and the concept of 'The Hill,' where deep telepathic connections occur. Dickens challenges listeners to rethink conventional views of intelligence and reality itself while advocating for greater acceptance and understanding of neurodiversity.

Chip Conley, a hospitality expert and founder of Modern Elder Academy, discusses midlife as a transformative journey rather than a crisis. He shares personal anecdotes about navigating life's deepest transitions, emphasizing friendship's role in wellness and the importance of nurturing connections. Conley redefines success, advocating for inner fulfillment over external achievements. The conversation touches on cultivating awe through nature, breaking routines with rituals, and the essence of wisdom garnered from shared life experiences.

Dan Harris, a former ABC News anchor turned meditation advocate, shares his journey from panic attacks in the newsroom to embracing mindfulness. He discusses how meditation has transformed from a mere stress relief tool into a profound exploration of consciousness. Dan reflects on meaningful encounters with the Dalai Lama and highlights the importance of emotional resilience. He emphasizes observing thoughts without attachment and offers practical insights for building a sustainable meditation practice, urging listeners to find peace amidst life's uncertainties.