The Rich Roll Podcast

This conversation dives into the heart of social justice, exploring the urgency of addressing food deserts. The hosts tackle philosophical questions around reclaiming personal narratives and overcoming imposter syndrome. They share insights on navigating conflict and the importance of discernment in today's media landscape. With reflections on racism and community dynamics, the dialogue emphasizes the interconnection of personal growth and societal issues. It's about crafting a gentler narrative while fostering connection and resilience.

 Against the backdrop of a global pandemic has emerged the most powerful civil rights movement of our lifetime -- an irrefutably historic moment that will indelibly shape the economic, political, and social fabric of our country for decades to come.To help us untangle the rhetoric behind our country's supercharged division, today Knox Robinson joins the podcast.Returning for his second appearance on the show (RRP #394 rests among my all time favorite episodes), Knox is a writer, athlete, national caliber runner, eponymous curator of running culture, and an astute student of black history, art, literature, music and poetry. Formally commencing under the tutelage Poet Laureate Maya Angelou at Wake Forest University, Knox's education has continued throughout the many chapters of his life. As a spoken word artist and music manager. As editor-in-chief of Fader magazine. And more recently as co-founder and captain of Black Roses NYC -- a diverse collective of running enthusiasts who routinely gather to hammer out intervals across Brooklyn & downtown Manhattan.Put plainly, urban culture is Knox's lifeblood.One of the most interesting and multi-faceted humans I have ever met, today Knox shares an important perspective on America's crossroads. This is an investigation into the culture shifts caused by the pandemic and protests alike. It's a conversation about the intersection of sport, politics and civil rights. Black American representation in athletics. And where we go from here.It's also about virtue signaling. Performative allyship. And why reading White Fragility simply isn’t enough. But more than anything, this is a conversation about the power and poetics of running. Running as metaphor. Running as an act of rebellion — and the disturbing symbolism behind Ahmaud Arbery’s murder. I left this exchange better for having had it. The visually inclined can watch our conversation on YouTube. And as always, the audio version streams wild and free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.This is a special conversation. I'm better for having had it. I hope you will be similarly impacted.Peace + Plants,Rich

This discussion features Byron Davis, a former USA Swimming National Team member and Ironman, alongside Pastor Phil Allen, Jr., a filmmaker and poet engaged in social issues. They dive into the ongoing protests against systemic racism and share personal experiences that shape their perspectives. Byron reflects on resilience in sports while Phil discusses intergenerational trauma through his documentary. Together, they emphasize the importance of honest dialogues, historical awareness, and collective action in confronting racial injustices in America.

Adam Skolnick, an activist and seasoned adventure journalist, delves into pressing topics such as race and privilege in America. He emphasizes the importance of understanding systemic injustices and collective responsibility to foster meaningful dialogue. The conversation highlights the need for reforms in policing, specifically integrating mental health practices. Skolnick relates personal narratives to broader societal themes, urging listeners to confront their unconscious biases and engage in activism, while advocating for transformative change in a pivotal historical moment.

Doug Evans, a serial health food entrepreneur and author of The Sprout Book, shares his journey from the highs of Silicon Valley to the lows of Juicero's failure. He highlights the transformative power of sprouts, advocating for their nutritional benefits and accessibility in combating food inequality. The conversation delves into systemic issues in our food system, the importance of collective action, and personal anecdotes that shape his commitment to healthy eating. Evans also reflects on lessons learned from his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing resilience and sustainable practices.

James Altucher, a prolific writer and entrepreneur known for his unconventional thoughts, dives into the chaotic realities of today’s society. He emphasizes personal reinvention as a solution for systemic change and discusses the importance of vulnerability in fostering creativity. The conversation covers the value of experimentation over traditional practices in mastering skills and critiques conventional education. Altucher also explores new frontiers in publishing and the evolving landscape of content creation, advocating for adaptability and authentic connections.

Dr. Michael Greger, a renowned nutrition science expert and author of bestsellers like 'How Not to Diet,' dives into the vital relationship between diet and health. He discusses the power of a plant-based diet in weight loss and chronic disease management, backed by compelling success stories. Greger also sheds light on the importance of meal timing and the gut microbiome. Addressing common diet misconceptions, he emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific evaluation and empowering consumers with accurate nutrition information for better health choices.

David Clark, an ultra-endurance athlete and bestselling author, is remembered alongside his close friend Mishka Shubaly. They discuss Clark's incredible journey from addiction and obesity to becoming a beacon of hope and transformation. The duo explores the power of vulnerability in recovery, the importance of community support, and the legacy Clark left behind. Personal anecdotes highlight his profound impact on those around him, while reflections on the mental battles of endurance running emphasize the connection between emotional health and physical achievement.

In this enlightening discussion, Guru Singh, a celebrated third-generation Sikh yogi and spiritual teacher, explores the intricate relationship between grief, loss, and personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of embracing life's fragility and finding meaning in sorrow, advocating for 'good grief' as a path to resilience. Singh shares powerful insights on navigating isolation, the duality of joy and sadness, and the necessity of open communication during tough times. Ultimately, he offers a hopeful perspective on finding peace amid loss.

Colin O'Brady, an adventure athlete and author, shares his journey from burn victim to world record holder, including his incredible solo crossing of Antarctica. He discusses the emotional and physical trials of extreme adventures and how love and resilience fuel human potential. Colin also reflects on the struggles he faced amidst recent controversies regarding his accomplishments, all while emphasizing the importance of storytelling and connection in defining one’s journey. His insights inspire listeners to embrace challenges and unlock their true abilities.