The Rich Roll Podcast

Explore the scandalous decline of the Olympics, from rampant corruption to dwindling global interest. Celebrate the inspiring journeys of athletes like Erin Jackson, the first Black woman to win Winter Olympic gold, and Kelly Slater's epic win at 50. Delve into the implications of Eileen Gu's representation and the ethics surrounding young athletes in doping controversies. Plus, discover the benefits of 'dumb phones' that counteract digital addiction, alongside listener questions and some quirky product recommendations.

Johann Hari, a journalist and New York Times bestselling author, dives into the alarming decline of attention in our tech-driven society. He discusses how disconnection from nature, disrupted sleep, and smartphone addiction undermine our focus. Hari shares personal insights on overcoming distractions and the need for systemic change to reclaim our minds. He emphasizes the importance of collective action, healthy habits, and a shift away from harmful business models to foster meaningful engagement and deeper connections in a distracted world.

Sylvia Earle, a marine botanist and oceanographer known as "Her Deepness," shares her extraordinary insights on ocean conservation. With over 7,000 hours underwater and a passion for protecting marine ecosystems, she discusses the stark urgency of ocean health and the impact of human activities. Earle emphasizes the need for individual action, the importance of marine reserves, and the vital role of hope in fostering environmental change. Her new book, "Ocean: A Global Odyssey," highlights the beauty and fragility of our oceans, inspiring listeners to take action.

The hosts dive into the fascinating world of sports science, discussing 'Moneyball-esque' advancements in training technologies for triathletes. They reflect on a recent sabbatical and the personal lessons it brought. The drama surrounding free speech in podcasting, highlighted by the Joe Rogan controversy, generates thought-provoking insights. They also celebrate community efforts that raised nearly $500K for charity and explore the timeless wisdom of Alan Watts, alongside a discussion of the impactful miniseries 'Station Eleven.' Listener questions wrap up this lively discussion.

Harvey Lewis, a Cincinnati high school teacher and world-record-holding ultramarathon runner, shares his unique insights on balancing life and endurance athletics. He discusses the emotional aspects of ultra racing, particularly in finding purpose beyond the 300-mile mark. Listeners will be intrigued by his stories of resilience, teamwork, and the camaraderie of ultra races. Lewis also dives into the significance of nutrition, revealing how a plant-based diet fuels his extraordinary performances and underscores the power of community in overcoming challenges.

Jacqueline Novogratz, Founder and CEO of Acumen, shares her remarkable journey from Wall Street to pioneering impact investing aimed at alleviating poverty. She emphasizes the power of moral imagination and patient capital in fostering lasting change. The discussion highlights the importance of investing in entrepreneurs, the need for accountability in philanthropy, and how humility can drive impactful leadership. Novogratz advocates for solutions that empower rather than create dependency, calling for a collaborative approach to tackling global challenges.

Rip Esselstyn, a three-time NCAA All-American swimmer and passionate advocate for plant-based living, shares his journey transforming health and lifestyles with a whole-food, plant-based diet. He discusses the gut microbiome's crucial role in health, the intersection of personal well-being and environmental sustainability, and the challenges of maintaining a healthy plant-based diet amid processed options. Rip also highlights his commitment to community support and practical steps for embracing plant-based living, inspiring listeners to join the movement.

Doug Abrams, a literary agent and co-author of 'The Book of Hope' with Jane Goodall, discusses the crucial role of hope in facing global challenges. He explores how hope can combat feelings of helplessness and offers strategies for cultivating it through empathy and moral commitment. Insights from Goodall's legacy emphasize the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, illustrating how collective action can drive positive change. The conversation also highlights the importance of nurturing hope in younger generations as a pathway to resilience and progress.

Lisa Miller, PhD, a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, and founder of the Spirituality Mind Body Institute, dives into the fascinating science behind spirituality. She reveals how spiritual practices enhance mental health and resilience, particularly in children. The discussion highlights the distinct benefits of spirituality, advocating for its integration into education and community support. Personal anecdotes underscore the transformative power of embracing spirituality in everyday life, offering a refreshing perspective on mental well-being.

Join endurance legend Chris Hauth, Olympic medalist Caroline Burckle, and multi-talented Alexi Pappas as they explore the transformative power of personal growth and community support. They emphasize rituals over routines and the significance of self-reflection in achieving goals. The trio discusses embracing joy in the journey, the balance between ambition and mindfulness, and how to navigate mental health in sports. Their insights on evolving personal values and the importance of living authentically make for an inspiring and engaging conversation.