The Rich Roll Podcast

Join Olga Khazan, a staff writer for The Atlantic and author of "Me, But Better," as she explores the fascinating world of personality transformation. Hear about her journey from anxious introvert to a more liberated self and her reflections on the Big Five personality traits. Discover how everyday frustrations can catalyze significant change and the importance of establishing boundaries in relationships. Olga discusses the interplay of genetics and environment in shaping our identities, and the power of mindfulness and self-acceptance in personal growth.

James Frey, the controversial author of "A Million Little Pieces," joins the conversation, diving into his tumultuous journey as literature's 'bad boy.' He shares insights on the intertwining of addiction, creativity, and authenticity in writing. James reflects on fame's impact and the media's influence, while advocating for 'muscular books' that challenge societal norms. The discussion touches on the balance of art and commerce, Taoist principles in creativity, and the complexities of truth in storytelling, making for a thought-provoking dialogue.

In this engaging discussion, writer and journalist Adam Skolnick shares insights from his recent recovery and the quest for authenticity in podcasting. He reflects on the challenges of navigating personal growth, the joy of parenthood, and the wild beauty of Alaska. The conversation delves into the importance of community over audience, critiques the viral culture, and celebrates the return of cinema. Skolnick also touches on emotional storytelling in shows like 'Deadwood' and the evolution of media, highlighting why a slow pace can lead to richer experiences.

Jessica Knurick, a registered dietitian and public health expert, dives into the war on science and nutrition misinformation. She exposes how a $1.1 trillion healthcare cut went unnoticed while the MAHA movement distorts public health narratives. Jessica critiques viral myths surrounding seed oils and the profit motives driving health fear-mongering. She advocates for comprehensive policies addressing systemic issues in American health, emphasizing the need for transparency and better communication to rebuild trust in public health.

Jim Murphy, author of 'Inner Excellence,' coaches NFL players and executives in achieving peak performance through humility. In this conversation, he shares his journey from a mental breakdown to spiritual awakening during five years in the desert. Jim advocates that selflessness is key to fearless performance and overcoming mental blocks. He discusses the balance between high achievement and inner peace, the detrimental role of ego, and the transformative power of love and service in finding true fulfillment. Prepare for profound insights on personal growth!

Dr. Mindy Pelz, a functional medicine expert and bestselling author of "Fast Like a Girl," dives deep into women's hormonal health. She discusses how modern life disrupts women's natural cycles and why fasting must be personalized. Mindy advocates for viewing menopause as an empowering transformation rather than a decline. She challenges traditional health narratives, emphasizing self-discovery, metabolic health, and the importance of aligning with one’s biology for optimal wellness. It's a compelling call for women to reclaim their health and trust their bodies.

Peter Carlisle, a veteran sports agent and managing partner at Octagon, represents Olympic legends like Michael Phelps and Simone Biles. He dives into the harsh realities of mental health challenges faced by Olympians post-competition, highlighting that 90% struggle to adapt. Carlisle shares insights on the damaging effects of hyper-specialization in youth sports and the hidden costs of pursuing greatness. He also recounts nearly passing on signing Phelps, reflecting on the pressure and stigma surrounding athletes' mental health.

Jennifer Pastiloff, bestselling author and founder of the "On Being Human" movement, dives into her transformative journey from childhood trauma to radical self-acceptance. She challenges listeners to silence their inner critics and emphasizes how our deepest wounds can become superpowers for connection. Jennifer shares poignant stories of vulnerability and growth, illustrating the significance of community support and the power of embracing one's true self. Her insights offer a refreshing perspective on overcoming life's challenges with humor and authenticity.

In this insightful discussion, sleep expert Matthew Walker and neuroscientist Andrew Huberman explore the hidden impacts of sleep deprivation. They debunk myths surrounding hustle culture, emphasizing that rest is crucial for productivity. Listeners learn about circadian rhythms and how they influence brain function, the importance of dietary choices for sleep quality, and new methods for tracking sleep. They also highlight everyday habits that impact mental health, especially in adolescents, and share innovative strategies for optimizing rest and recovery.

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.