The Rich Roll Podcast

Gregg Renfrew, founder of Beautycounter and a pioneer in the clean beauty movement, passionately discusses the urgent need for reform in the cosmetic industry. She reveals shocking statistics about untested chemicals in beauty products and laments the outdated regulations that endanger consumer health. Highlighting her entrepreneurial journey, Gregg shares insights on building a safer beauty empire while advocating for consumer education and stronger regulatory standards. Her mission focuses on empowerment, transparency, and a commitment to safer, toxic-free cosmetics.

Iliana Regan is a self-taught chef and author known for her locavore cooking style and memoir, "Burn the Place." In this engaging conversation, she shares her journey to sobriety and how foraging has transformed her culinary approach. Iliana discusses her experiences opening a new restaurant, Milkweed Inn, and reflects on the challenges of the culinary industry intertwined with her personal struggles. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in storytelling and the significance of representation in understanding identity and recovery.

Rickey Gates, a distinguished ultra-runner and conceptual artist, merges endurance with storytelling in captivating ways. He shares insights from his extraordinary project of running every street in San Francisco, emphasizing the transformative power of long-distance running. Gates discusses how his journeys foster empathy and connection in a divided society, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and personal growth. He reflects on the artistry of endurance and the invaluable lessons learned through human interactions while traversing diverse landscapes.

Lindsay Crouse, an investigative journalist at The New York Times specializing in women's sports, dives deep into the challenges female athletes face. She discusses the critical themes of fairness, sponsorship issues, and the need for advocacy. Lindsay reflects on her impactful pieces, including the emotional toll of maternity rights and the abuse culture in sports. She emphasizes the importance of elevating women's voices and fostering supportive environments, while calling for systemic changes in sports journalism and athlete representation.

Lauren Fleshman, one of the greatest middle-distance runners in American history, discusses her inspiring journey through the world of athletics. She opens up about the hurdles female athletes face, from maternity policies to equity in sports. Lauren emphasizes the need for a supportive environment and better structural changes in athletics. She also touches on her transition to entrepreneurship and writing, sharing her mission to empower women and address the unique challenges they encounter in their athletic careers.

Neal Barnard, MD, a leading authority on diet and its impact on health, dives into the often-overlooked world of hormonal health. He discusses how hormones in everyday foods can impact issues like infertility and weight gain. Barnard reveals the surprising benefits of a plant-based diet in restoring hormonal balance, especially for menstrual pain and fertility. He critiques industry-funded studies and emphasizes the importance of nutrition in overall well-being, linking dietary choices to mental health and thyroid function.

Kelly McGonigal, a Stanford health psychologist and author known for demystifying the mind-body connection, shares insights on the transformative power of movement. She emphasizes movement as a gateway to mental well-being and resilience, particularly in combating loneliness and depression. Kelly discusses how enjoyable physical activity releases 'hope molecules,' fostering community and connection. She also reflects on the emotional journey within ultra-endurance sports, promoting self-love and compassion as pivotal to personal growth and fulfillment.

Chadd Wright, a former Navy SEAL, ultramarathoner, and author, shares his inspiring journey from overcoming a heart condition to realizing his SEAL dream. He delves into the transformative power of resilience, discussing personal growth through adversity and the significance of a positive mindset in ultrarunning. Chadd opens up about his struggles with PTSD and the lessons learned from extreme endurance challenges. His reflections on letting go of past identities and the spiritual awakening that follows are both profound and motivating.

In this engaging anthology, notable guests like Russell Brand, a comedic influencer on spirituality, and Amanda Palmer, a crowdfunding pioneer in art, reflect on profound truths. Edward Norton discusses the intersection of film and activism, while Kelly Corrigan shares insights on navigating grief. The importance of sustainable farming is emphasized by Paul Hawken, and Kendra Little advocates for intersex rights. Cal Newport offers wisdom on digital minimalism, balancing technology with mindfulness. Together, they inspire self-discovery, community building, and resilience.

Welcome to the 7th annual Best of the RRP Anthology — our way of taking a moment to reflect on the year, express gratitude and give thanks for taking this journey with us.To be honest, I didn’t think we could top 2018 -- but we did. It’s been an incredible year. I'm deeply indebted to all my extraordinary guests. And unbelievably proud of the library we dedicated ourselves to creating over the last twelve months.To prepare for the year ahead, it’s critical to pause. To reflect back. Celebrate the victories. Take inventory of the missteps. And visualize the goals you wish to self-actualize in the months ahead. I believe in this process. And I feel strongly that 2020 holds the potential energy manifest your aspirations.It is in this spirit that we created a tradition of closing each year with a look in the rear view with a 2-episode compilation of clips excerpted from many of year's best guests.Consider these next two shows as a love letter. My way of saying thank you. I see you. I believe in you. And I believe in the power we all have to do, be and live better. To step into our best, most authentic selves. And in turn, share freely what we have learned in service of others.For long-time listeners, the next two episodes are intended to launch you into 2020 with renewed vigor and intention. Lean in to the wisdom. Leverage it to clarify your 2020 goals.If you're newer to the show, my hope is that this anthology will prime you to peruse the back catalog and check out episodes you may have missed.Links to the full episodes excerpted in this anthology can be found in the below show notes.You can watch it all go down on YouTube (with the exception of the Gemma Newman, Jack Dorsey and Kevin Smith excerpts, episodes that we did not film)Here's to an extraordinary 2020. Join me, and let's make it the best year ever -- together.Enjoy!Rich