The Rich Roll Podcast

This conversation features Lisa Miller, a psychology professor and founder of a spirituality institute, Arthur Brooks, a Harvard scholar on happiness and purpose, and several other thought leaders discussing various facets of spirituality. They explore the scientific links between spirituality and well-being, the importance of self-forgiveness, and how compassion can transform relationships. Insights on embracing mortality and living with gratitude underscore the journey towards a more fulfilled spiritual life, offering practical practices for listeners.

Discover the inspiring tale of Anvil, the 80's metal band that refused to fade away. Their journey is packed with resilience and unwavering dreams, even after decades in obscurity. The filmmakers share heartfelt anecdotes about the band’s struggles and triumphs, highlighting the transformative power of music and friendship. With nostalgic memories and emotional reunions, this story celebrates authentic artistry over commercial success. Join them as they navigate the highs and lows of their rock and roll existence, ultimately redefining what it means to succeed.

Dr. Paul Conti, a psychiatrist and author of "Trauma, the Invisible Epidemic," dives into the complex world of trauma and its profound effects on mental health. He explains how unresolved trauma manifests in our lives and critiques the limitations of the current mental health system. The discussion emphasizes the importance of addressing childhood trauma and its legacy, as well as the connection between trauma and addiction. Dr. Conti also advocates for a compassionate, holistic approach to healing, urging listeners to confront their personal struggles for true transformation.

The hosts share humorous reflections on a decade of podcasting, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and curiosity. They delve into the challenges of summer heat and travel, celebrate tennis triumphs, and explore personal growth through storytelling. A thoughtful critique of social media's darker side leads to discussions on mental health and therapy. Listeners are encouraged to pursue passions beyond productivity while reflecting on enduring life lessons and the art of meaningful connections.

Max Fisher, a New York Times investigative reporter and author of 'The Chaos Machine', dives deep into how social media rewires our brains and behaviors. He discusses its dark role in fostering division and violence, revealing the chilling impact of algorithms on human morality. Fisher highlights the terrifying implications of misinformation and how outrage is engineered to boost engagement. He also raises critical questions about free speech and the urgent need for a shift toward healthier tech consumption in today's society.

Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned speaker and bestselling author, dives into the complex relationship between trauma and health. He reveals how societal and cultural factors contribute to addiction and illness, challenging the traditional focus on genetics. Maté discusses the paradox of increased loneliness in our digitally connected age and emphasizes the importance of recognizing unhealed trauma for personal and collective recovery. He advocates for a shift towards compassionate, trauma-informed approaches in treatment, especially in parenting and societal systems.

Ken Rideout, a remarkable endurance athlete and former prison guard, shares his incredible journey from addiction to athletic triumph. He delves into the mental resilience required in both prison environments and sports, emphasizing the importance of self-accountability. Ken reflects on formative challenges that shaped his competitive spirit, including the loss he experienced on 9/11. His passion for running and structured training drives him toward becoming a champions in marathon running, offering insights on goal-setting and the transformative power of perseverance.

In this discussion, the hosts celebrate a landmark 700th episode while reflecting on personal journeys and shared experiences. They tackle wealth inequality and the cultural ramifications of free speech attacks, notably against Salman Rushdie. Attention turns to the exhilarating world of endurance sports, highlighting record-breaking athletes and innovations in training. The hosts explore the significant impact of media on society and the quest for balance between personal ambitions and relationships, all peppered with humor and insightful banter.

In this insightful discussion, Susan Cain, author of the bestselling book "Bittersweet," dives into the beautiful ache that connects us all. A former corporate lawyer, she explores the power of melancholy and how embracing bittersweetness enriches our lives. Susan shares her journey from law to literature and the complexities of introversion, advocating for greater acceptance of emotional depth. She also reflects on finding solace in creativity and the importance of nurturing introverted children in a society that often overlooks their strengths.

In this engaging discussion, Ari Wallach, a futurist and author of 'Longpath', delves into long-term thinking and how it can reshape our world. He emphasizes the need for transgenerational empathy, urging us to consider the impact of our actions on future generations. Ari shares profound insights on personal and collective legacies, the importance of adapting our mindsets, and fostering creativity during challenging times. He encourages listeners to envision hopeful futures and become great ancestors, inviting a deeper understanding of our role in the interconnected narrative of life.