The Rich Roll Podcast

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.

Adam Skolnick, an author who just completed his novel, joins for a deep dive into the creative journey of publishing. They tackle the emotional ups and downs faced by writers, share book recommendations that inspire creativity, and discuss the significance of journaling. Skolnick also reflects on his experiences meeting the Dalai Lama and the wisdom gained from that encounter. The conversation evolves to touch on regenerative agriculture debates and the implications for our food systems, blending personal anecdotes with broader societal issues.

Phil Stutz, a renowned psychiatrist and author famous for his unique approach to self-betterment, dives into the intersection of spirituality and personal growth. He shares actionable tools to address modern dissatisfaction and mental health crises fueled by loneliness and materialism. The conversation also touches on the importance of self-worth beyond societal achievements, emotional vulnerability in relationships, and the significance of active love. Stutz’s insights offer listeners a transformative perspective on finding purpose and overcoming personal obstacles.

Matthew Hussey, celebrated relationship expert and bestselling author, shares insights on modern dating dynamics. He discusses the importance of self-worth and setting boundaries to attract healthy partnerships. The conversation explores breaking destructive cycles, recognizing relationship red flags, and fostering genuine connections. Matthew emphasizes open communication, productive arguments, and nurturing growth in partners. He highlights the challenges of vulnerability and societal pressures, providing a practical roadmap for finding lasting love.

Johann Hari, a New York Times bestselling author and journalist known for his insights on social issues, shares his year-long journey with the weight loss drug Ozempic. He discusses the drug's potential to combat obesity while highlighting alarming side effects, including risks of cancer and muscle loss. Hari delves into societal pressures surrounding body image and questions the ethics of pharmaceutical quick fixes. The conversation covers the broader implications of processed foods, personal responsibility, and the need for a nuanced dialogue about health.

Dan Churchill, a performance chef and cookbook author, dives into the world of nutrition and peak athletic performance. He shares his journey from MasterChef Australia to redefining culinary practices for elite athletes like Chris Hemsworth. The conversation touches on balancing creativity in the kitchen, the importance of authentic professional relationships, and debunking common nutritional myths. Dan emphasizes the role of intentional eating in training and recovery, while also reflecting on the community-building aspects of food.

Orlando Bloom, renowned actor and spiritual seeker known for his iconic roles in *Lord of the Rings* and *Pirates of the Caribbean*, dives deep into the thrills of extreme sports and the balance of life. He shares his experiences with wingsuiting and free diving, exploring the relationship between risk, personal growth, and the quest for fulfillment. Bloom opens up about navigating fame, the influence of Buddhism in his life, and his commitment to humanitarian work with UNICEF. His journey reflects the delicate dance between discipline and surrender, illuminating the path of self-discovery.

This week’s guest, Dr. Sarkis Mazmanian, is a microbiologist and professor at Caltech, specializing in the gut-brain axis. He discusses how gut microbes influence neurological health, linking them to conditions like Parkinson's and autism. The conversation dives into the malleability of the adult microbiome and the potential for microbiome-based therapeutics. Dr. Mazmanian highlights challenges in translating animal research to humans and the gut’s role in shaping behaviors and cravings, emphasizing the importance of a healthy gut diet.