The Rich Roll Podcast

Dr. Gregor Reid, a world-renowned microbiologist and the authority on probiotics for the UN/WHO, shares his insights on the power of beneficial microbes. He discusses how probiotics can complement modern medicine and tackle health issues like gut disorders and chronic disease. The conversation highlights the importance of microbial diversity, the need for education on probiotics, and innovative applications in both health and agriculture. Reid's visionary perspective encourages a shift towards embracing microbes for better health outcomes and sustainability.

Chef Babette Davis, a 73-year-old vegan chef and fitness advocate, shares her inspiring journey from hardship to health. She discusses her philosophy of food as medicine and the transformative power of self-love. Babette highlights the importance of self-care and shares personal anecdotes from her life experiences, showing how humor and mindfulness can foster resilience. She also emphasizes the need for community awareness around nutrition and celebrates the healing potential of plant-based eating, all while impressively doing push-ups!

In this engaging conversation, Max Joseph, a filmmaker and former MTV Catfish co-host, dives into his creative journey. He candidly shares lessons from directing a Hollywood film and the emotional aftermath of its failure. Max explores the balance between traditional and digital media, discussing the evolving landscape of filmmaking. He reflects on the neuroscience of happiness, emphasizing the importance of connection and personal growth. With insights from his experiences and a transformative moment with the Dalai Lama, it’s a compelling exploration of creativity and fulfillment.

Dr. David Spindler, a high-performance cognitive specialist, shares his expertise from working with elite athletes like Mark Cavendish. He delves into the impact of neuroscience on athletic performance, highlighting the importance of mental health and self-regulation. The conversation covers strategies for optimizing mental resilience and the interplay of neurotransmitters in decision-making. Spindler emphasizes fostering trust in team dynamics and navigating the pressures athletes face, advocating for a holistic approach to success beyond mere perfectionism.

Dr. Uma Valeti, founder and CEO of UPSIDE Foods and former cardiologist, dives into the revolutionary field of cultivated meat. He shares the science behind growing real meat without traditional farming, tackling global food security and environmental concerns. Uma discusses the innovative processes that create lab-grown chicken and his personal journey from medicine to food tech. Listeners are invited to explore the ethical implications and taste the future of meat, bridging gaps between vegans and meat lovers.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Chernow, a restaurateur and founder of Kreatures of Habit, shares his powerful journey of sobriety and resilience. He reflects on his traumatic childhood and transformative recovery, emphasizing the significance of daily habits and morning routines. Michael offers heartfelt insights on healing one’s inner child, the impact of gut health, and the importance of strong community support. His story is a testament to personal empowerment and the belief that anyone can change their life, no matter the odds.

Dr. Joel Pearson, a cognitive neuroscientist and author of "The Intuition Toolkit," explores the intriguing science of intuition and its impact on decision-making. He introduces the SMILE framework, helping listeners differentiate between intuition, instinct, and impulse. Pearson discusses the role of AI in shaping our choices and the unique cognitive condition of aphantasia. This conversation challenges our views on free will and emphasizes how subconscious cues can enhance our life decisions, reshaping our understanding of gut feelings.

Dr. Uma Naidoo, a nutritional psychiatrist and professional chef at Harvard Medical School, discusses how food influences mental health. She highlights the gut-brain connection and shares actionable tips for using diet to combat anxiety and depression. Dr. Naidoo emphasizes the importance of whole foods and nutrient balance for enhancing mental well-being. She also addresses the impact of nutrient deficiencies and the role of adaptogens, advocating for a personalized approach to nutrition in maintaining mental health.

Dr. Alan Goldhamer, the founder of TrueNorth Health Center and a pioneer in water-only fasting, discusses transformative health strategies. He reveals how prolonged fasting can combat chronic diseases and the troubling impact of visceral fat. The conversation dives into the psychological and physiological benefits of fasting, highlighting success stories of patient recovery and longevity. Goldhamer also shares insights on dietary habits, the societal challenges of processed foods, and the need for community empowerment to improve overall health outcomes.

Sam Harris, a prominent neuroscientist and philosopher, dives into pressing issues like misinformation and the crisis of critical thinking in today’s society. He shares insights from his journey through meditation and psychedelics, exploring the illusion of the self and its impact on inner freedom. The conversation highlights the importance of reason and open dialogue in navigating challenges posed by technology and societal divides. Harris also sketches a philosophy of consciousness, urging a modern approach to morality that embraces complexity over dogmatism.