The Rich Roll Podcast

In this conversation with Andy Galpin, a PhD in exercise bioenergetics and elite coach, he reveals insights on why many hit plateaus in training. Andy explains the nine fitness adaptations and emphasizes that movement quality can eclipse intensity. He distinguishes between functional overreaching and true overtraining, highlighting the importance of personalized plans. The discussion also delves into the role of sleep and nutrition in performance, as well as practical strategies for rebuilding movement patterns after injury.

In this engaging discussion, Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, shares his insights as an elite marathoner and author of The Running Ground. He reflects on how running serves as a mirror for personal growth and resilience, revealing deep psychological patterns. Nick candidly addresses his journey through cancer, the complexities of familial ties, and the gripping challenges posed by AI in media. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, the lessons from his father's struggles, and how running intertwines with life’s bigger questions.

Joanne Molinaro, a James Beard Award-winning cookbook author and creator of The Korean Vegan, shares her inspiring journey from corporate law to food storytelling. She discusses healing generational trauma through her culinary creations and the tension between Korean tradition and her American identity. Joanne reflects on her viral TikTok success, the impact of food on connection, and the complexities of veganism in today's wellness landscape. With vulnerability and insight, she encourages others to embrace their true selves through creativity and compassion.

Adam Skolnick, a journalist and author, shares the excitement of his debut novel, "American Tiger," which took 20 years to create. He recounts the challenges of recording the audiobook in the studio. The conversation dives into Rich's family crisis involving his mother's dementia, likening it to an 'Ocean's Eleven' heist. The duo reflects on relationships, personal growth, and the importance of showing up, all while touching on adventures like Alex Honnold's skyscraper climb and the Norwegians' Ironman triumphs. It’s an engaging mix of literary passion and life lessons.

Emily Harrington, a trailblazing rock climber and the first woman to free climb El Capitan's Golden Gate in under 24 hours, shares her incredible journey. She discusses her harrowing 50-foot fall, the impact of an eating disorder, and the emotional strength she found in vulnerability. Emily reveals her innovative double-shoe technique and reflects on the loss of her mentor, Hilary Nelson. With candid insight, she emphasizes the delicate balance of ambition and motherhood while encouraging young female athletes to embrace their fears and forge their own paths.

Dr. John W. Price, a depth psychotherapist and co-founder of The Center for Healing Arts & Sciences, dives deep into modern masculinity and the crisis of male loneliness. He discusses how suffering can serve as a vital initiation rather than a sign of pathology. Price introduces the concept of "sacred refusal," addressing harmful adaptations that once protected us. They explore the need for rites of passage, the importance of community in healing, and how reshaping personal narratives can lead to transformation.

Dr. Lisa Mosconi, a neuroscientist focused on women's brain health, reveals how estrogen impacts cognitive function and dementia risk. Dr. Neal Barnard discusses plant-based diets for hormonal balance and their role in alleviating menstrual pain. Dr. Robin Berzin highlights the need for personalized hormone therapy and recovery protocols for postpartum mothers. The conversation addresses the gaps in women's health research, dietary interventions, and the crucial timing for hormone replacement therapy to optimize metabolic and cognitive health.

Dara Torres, a five-time Olympian and 12-time Olympic medalist, explores her groundbreaking journey in competitive swimming. She reveals how she broke American records post-pregnancy and why her revolutionary training methods faced indifference from the swimming community. The conversation touches on her battles with bulimia, age-defying fitness strategies, and the importance of mentorship for young athletes. Dara’s insights into recovery, nutrition, and maintaining a competitive edge at 58 provide inspiration for both athletes and casual fitness enthusiasts.

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Marc Brackett, a professor at Yale and founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, shares insights from his work on emotional literacy. He discusses the vital importance of recognizing and naming our emotions to navigate life effectively. Listeners learn about the RULER framework, strategies for emotional regulation, and the significance of embracing all feelings for personal growth. Marc even assists in unpacking emotional patterns in real-time, making this an engaging and relatable exploration of emotional wisdom.

In this captivating discussion, bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert shares her harrowing journey through addiction and recovery. She candidly reflects on losing her partner to relapse while grappling with her own struggles and codependency. The conversation touches on radical honesty as a path to healing, the challenges of celibacy for self-care, and the importance of community support. Through her vulnerability, Elizabeth inspires listeners to embrace their own journeys and find strength in vulnerability.