The Rich Roll Podcast

Maggie Baird, a veteran actor and vegan activist, shares her journey as the mother of Grammy-winning artists Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell. She discusses the unique challenges of parenting in the spotlight while keeping her children grounded. The conversation dives into her non-profit, Support And Feed, which combats food insecurity with plant-based meals. Baird also highlights the importance of unschooling and fostering creativity in parenting, all while navigating the complexities of fame and activism in a rapidly changing world.

Dr. Anna Lembke, a leading authority on addiction and psychiatry, dives deep into the complexities of addiction in modern society. She discusses how the relentless pursuit of pleasure can lead to profound pain and the current opioid crisis. The conversation highlights the pivotal role of dopamine in addiction, explores recovery methods, and emphasizes the importance of personal growth through painful experiences. Lembke advocates for a nuanced understanding of addiction, pushing for improved treatment systems and open conversations about vulnerability and societal influences.

Ted McDonald, a renowned yoga instructor and endurance coach, joins to discuss the urgent climate crisis, emphasizing the chaos of melting ice caps and record heat. Alongside co-host Adam Skolnick, they explore the complexities of perfectionism and personal wellbeing. From arctic swimming to productivity lessons learned in Telluride, their conversation spans a range of topics, including the critical roles of sustainable practices and regenerative agriculture in combatting climate change. They advocate for collective responsibility in a world increasingly in need of action.

Sergey Young, a visionary chemical engineer and founder of the Longevity Vision Fund, is on a mission to extend human lifespan. He dives into cutting-edge advancements in lifespan extension, such as bio-tracking wearables and AI's role in healthcare. Sergey emphasizes the importance of preventive health, plant-based diets, and potential breakthroughs in genetic engineering. He also tackles the ethical implications of living longer, urging a cultural shift in how we perceive aging as a disease. Join him in exploring a future where vibrant health could last well beyond 100.

Eric Adams, NYC's first vegan mayor and former police officer, shares his remarkable journey from advanced Type II diabetes to health transformation through a plant-based diet. He discusses the alarming state of American health, with rising obesity and diabetes rates, and underscores the urgent need for systemic change. Adams reflects on food insecurity and advocates for nutrition as a human right, emphasizing the role of education in promoting healthier choices. His inspiring story illustrates the profound impact of dietary shifts on individual and community well-being.

In a thrilling discussion, the hosts share a close encounter with a great white shark and reflect on the challenges athletes face, particularly focusing on Simone Biles’ decision to prioritize mental health during the Olympics. They explore innovative training methods like Katsu training and celebrate incredible feats by endurance athletes, including a record-breaking Pacific Crest Trail adventure. Listener questions spark insights on aging, personal growth, and the importance of open dialogue on mental well-being in sports. A blend of humor, urgency, and compassion makes for an engaging conversation.

In this engaging conversation, Courtney Dauwalter, the world's best female ultrarunner, shares her incredible journey and unique training style. She emphasizes the importance of embracing the 'pain cave' to boost mental strength and performance. Courtney reveals her intuitive approach to training, prioritizing listening to her body rather than rigid plans. The discussion dives into the intricate balance of challenge and recovery in ultrarunning, highlighting her remarkable triumphs and the community that supports athletes like her in tackling extreme distances.

Bruce Friedrich, founder of The Good Food Institute and a leader in alternative protein innovation, discusses the urgent need for plant-based and cultured meat solutions. He highlights the paradox of rising meat consumption globally despite increasing interest in vegan options. The conversation delves into the environmental impacts of animal agriculture and the future of protein production, emphasizing technological advancements and the necessity for regulatory support. Friedrich also explores the growing market for plant-based alternatives and the importance of consumer acceptance.

Discover remarkable feats like record-breaking freediving and endurance challenges in Colorado. Explore the intriguing competition among billionaires racing to space and the government's newfound transparency about UFOs. Delve into cultural reflections on Bo Burnham's 'Inside' and Anthony Bourdain's legacy. Enjoy light-hearted debates on plant-based nutrition and the ethics of deep fakes in filmmaking. Join the hosts as they blend serious insights with humor, covering everything from urban adventures in NYC to the captivating world of competitive cycling.

World-renowned chef Daniel Humm, owner of Eleven Madison Park, shares his transformative journey of pivoting to a 100% plant-based menu amid the pandemic. He discusses the motivations behind this bold move, rooted in sustainability and social responsibility. Listeners will learn about his initiatives to combat food insecurity in New York City, including repurposing restaurant resources to feed those in need. Humm delves into redefining luxury dining through a plant-based lens, blending artistry with a commitment to community and environmental consciousness.