The Rich Roll Podcast

Tom Shadyac, the acclaimed director behind hits like "Ace Ventura" and "Bruce Almighty," shares his transformative journey from Hollywood wealth to meaningful service. He discusses his work empowering at-risk youth through Memphis Rox, the illusion of separation in human connections, and how community engagement fosters personal growth. Tom also challenges conventional views on success, emphasizing a balance between ego and contribution, and highlights the importance of storytelling in revealing deeper truths about identity and community.

Cody Simpson, a global singer-songwriter and Olympic hopeful, joins two-time Olympian Katie Hoff for an insightful discussion. They share their journeys of transitioning from music to competitive swimming and the balancing act of pursuing dual passions. The duo reflects on the emotional intensity of Olympic competitions and the camaraderie among athletes, while also offering humorous takes on cultural differences between Australia and the U.S. As they navigate the exciting landscape of the Paris Olympics, they explore the challenges and joys of their athletic and creative pursuits.

Join three-time Olympian Elizabeth Beisel, two-time Olympian Katie Hoff, and former Swiss Olympic coach Chris Morgan as they share their riveting tales from the Paris Olympics. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster of transitioning from athletes to broadcasters and the intense pressures faced in the Olympic Village. Discover the balance of nerves versus humor in competition, the camaraderie among rival swimmers, and the unique tranquility of Paris during the games. The trio also sheds light on mentorship within Team USA and the evolving landscape of social media for athletes.

David Manheim, creator of the Dopey Podcast and a key voice on addiction for This American Life, shares his inspiring journey from heroin addiction to recovery. He candidly discusses the importance of humor and vulnerability in healing, the profound impact of losing his co-host to overdose, and how that tragedy reshaped the Dopey Nation community. David emphasizes the power of raw storytelling and connection in recovery, while also touching on the complexities of ambition intertwined with addiction and the importance of self-care for families affected by substance use.

Dr. Gregor Reid, a world-renowned microbiologist and the authority on probiotics for the UN/WHO, shares his insights on the power of beneficial microbes. He discusses how probiotics can complement modern medicine and tackle health issues like gut disorders and chronic disease. The conversation highlights the importance of microbial diversity, the need for education on probiotics, and innovative applications in both health and agriculture. Reid's visionary perspective encourages a shift towards embracing microbes for better health outcomes and sustainability.

Chef Babette Davis, a 73-year-old vegan chef and fitness advocate, shares her inspiring journey from hardship to health. She discusses her philosophy of food as medicine and the transformative power of self-love. Babette highlights the importance of self-care and shares personal anecdotes from her life experiences, showing how humor and mindfulness can foster resilience. She also emphasizes the need for community awareness around nutrition and celebrates the healing potential of plant-based eating, all while impressively doing push-ups!

In this engaging conversation, Max Joseph, a filmmaker and former MTV Catfish co-host, dives into his creative journey. He candidly shares lessons from directing a Hollywood film and the emotional aftermath of its failure. Max explores the balance between traditional and digital media, discussing the evolving landscape of filmmaking. He reflects on the neuroscience of happiness, emphasizing the importance of connection and personal growth. With insights from his experiences and a transformative moment with the Dalai Lama, it’s a compelling exploration of creativity and fulfillment.

Dr. David Spindler, a high-performance cognitive specialist, shares his expertise from working with elite athletes like Mark Cavendish. He delves into the impact of neuroscience on athletic performance, highlighting the importance of mental health and self-regulation. The conversation covers strategies for optimizing mental resilience and the interplay of neurotransmitters in decision-making. Spindler emphasizes fostering trust in team dynamics and navigating the pressures athletes face, advocating for a holistic approach to success beyond mere perfectionism.

Dr. Uma Valeti, founder and CEO of UPSIDE Foods and former cardiologist, dives into the revolutionary field of cultivated meat. He shares the science behind growing real meat without traditional farming, tackling global food security and environmental concerns. Uma discusses the innovative processes that create lab-grown chicken and his personal journey from medicine to food tech. Listeners are invited to explore the ethical implications and taste the future of meat, bridging gaps between vegans and meat lovers.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Chernow, a restaurateur and founder of Kreatures of Habit, shares his powerful journey of sobriety and resilience. He reflects on his traumatic childhood and transformative recovery, emphasizing the significance of daily habits and morning routines. Michael offers heartfelt insights on healing one’s inner child, the impact of gut health, and the importance of strong community support. His story is a testament to personal empowerment and the belief that anyone can change their life, no matter the odds.