The Rich Roll Podcast

Peter Carlisle, a veteran sports agent and managing partner at Octagon, represents Olympic legends like Michael Phelps and Simone Biles. He dives into the harsh realities of mental health challenges faced by Olympians post-competition, highlighting that 90% struggle to adapt. Carlisle shares insights on the damaging effects of hyper-specialization in youth sports and the hidden costs of pursuing greatness. He also recounts nearly passing on signing Phelps, reflecting on the pressure and stigma surrounding athletes' mental health.

Jennifer Pastiloff, bestselling author and founder of the "On Being Human" movement, dives into her transformative journey from childhood trauma to radical self-acceptance. She challenges listeners to silence their inner critics and emphasizes how our deepest wounds can become superpowers for connection. Jennifer shares poignant stories of vulnerability and growth, illustrating the significance of community support and the power of embracing one's true self. Her insights offer a refreshing perspective on overcoming life's challenges with humor and authenticity.

In this insightful discussion, sleep expert Matthew Walker and neuroscientist Andrew Huberman explore the hidden impacts of sleep deprivation. They debunk myths surrounding hustle culture, emphasizing that rest is crucial for productivity. Listeners learn about circadian rhythms and how they influence brain function, the importance of dietary choices for sleep quality, and new methods for tracking sleep. They also highlight everyday habits that impact mental health, especially in adolescents, and share innovative strategies for optimizing rest and recovery.

Will Ahmed, the founder and CEO of Whoop, shares his journey from an overtrained college athlete to the leader of a billion-dollar fitness tech company. He dives into the significance of heart rate variability in recovery, revealing how even small improvements can enhance athletic performance. Will also discusses the transformative power of meditation in managing stress and improving decision-making. The conversation unveils how wearable technology is unlocking human potential and emphasizes finding balance between data usage and personal well-being.

Join three-time World Surf League Champion John John Florence as he shares his incredible journey in the surfing world. He opens up about stepping away from competition at his peak, highlighting the importance of surrendering control for true mastery. John John discusses balancing the pressures of fame with fatherhood and the profound life lessons he's learned from the ocean. His insights on transforming pressure into presence are both enlightening and inspiring, making this a deeply introspective conversation about the spiritual side of surfing.

Will Bulsiewicz, a leading gastroenterologist and microbiome researcher, discusses how fiber can boost cancer survival rates and the significant role the microbiome plays in health. Tim Spector reveals how gut bacteria may influence aging and cancer resilience. Robynne Chutkan emphasizes how our gut shapes immune responses, shedding light on connections between gut health and mental well-being. Together, they challenge dietary myths and underscore the importance of whole foods in optimizing both physical and mental health.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Laurie Santos, a renowned psychology professor at Yale, reveals why our perceptions of happiness often miss the mark. She discusses the mental health crisis among young people and the disconnect between understanding happiness and applying it. Santos introduces practical strategies like negative visualization to foster gratitude and authentic joy. The episode also highlights the impact of social media on self-esteem and emphasizes finding purpose through discomfort and genuine connections for lasting fulfillment.

Ethan Suplee, known for his roles in My Name is Earl and American History X, shares his transformative journey from addiction and obesity to wellness. He dives into the complexities of food addiction and the myths surrounding quick fixes. Ethan candidly discusses his struggles with relapses and the importance of mental health in recovery. He emphasizes the need for self-compassion while navigating life's challenges and the significant role of honest connections in achieving lasting change.

Adam Skolnick, co-host of 'Roll On' episodes, shares his journey through spinal fusion surgery and the valuable recovery insights gained from embracing stillness. He discusses the emotional hurdles of healing, the challenge of redefining productivity, and the importance of self-compassion in a fast-paced world. They dive into navigating chaos in LA, touching on immigrant challenges and the necessity of community support. Skolnick also reflects on how slowing down can lead to deeper self-discovery and enhance presence amidst modern distractions.

Bob Roth, America's foremost meditation teacher and executive director of The David Lynch Foundation, shares his 50+ years of experience with Transcendental Meditation (TM). He discusses how just 20 minutes a day can drastically reduce stress and transform your brain. The conversation touches on the neuroscience behind meditation and its role in personal clarity, creativity, and resilience. Roth emphasizes that meditation is not just a luxury but a necessary survival tool in today’s fast-paced world, especially in the era of AI.