Meet ultra-legend Mike Wardian. From running seven marathons in seven days on seven continents to running across America, Mike has accomplished a staggering amount as a runner over the years. He holds FKTs all over the globe from D.C. to Israel, and won a 100k world championship silver medal. And he’s done all of this while holding a full-time day job and spending time with his wife and young children.
In today’s conversation, we dive deep into Mike’s unique relationship with running, setting his world records, his experience running across America, and how he balances all of his athletic accomplishments with his responsibilities. We also talk about how his hobbies, like pickleball, chess, cycling, and CrossFit, complement his endurance training.

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Peace + Plants,
Rich

Fueling Performance With Play: Ultra-Runner Mike Wardian On Crushing World Records & Work-Life Balance

A master-class in personal and professional development, ultra-athlete, wellness evangelist and bestselling author Rich Roll delves deep with the world's brightest and most thought provoking thought leaders to educate, inspire and empower you to unleash your best, most authentic self. More at: https://richroll.com

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This week, I am joined by microbiologist Dr. Sarkis Mazmanian, the Luis B. and Nelly Soux Professor at Caltech, to discuss the microbiome's connection to human health—especially the gut-brain axis. Dr. Mazmanian discusses his research evolution from infectious diseases to the microbiome’s role in neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration, as well as how gut microbes influence neurological health, behavior, and conditions like Parkinson's, autism, and depression. He highlights the human gut microbe symbiosis, early-life microbial exposure's influence, and the adult microbiome's malleability. We explore microbiome-based therapeutics' potential, challenges in translating animal models to humans, personalized medicine's future, the microbiome's impact on drug efficacy, gut bacteria's influence on behaviors and cravings, and the importance of a healthy gut diet. Please enjoy!

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Does The Microbiome Hold The Key To Treating Parkinson’s, Autism & Other Diseases? CalTech Microbiologist Dr. Sarkis Mazmazian on The Gut-Brain Axis

This week, I am joined by Andy Ramage, who co-founded the OneYearNoBeer to discuss the growing alcohol-free lifestyle movement and its impact on individuals, industries, and cultural shifts. We explore the personal journeys of transitioning to an alcohol-free lifestyle, navigating social settings, and the psychological aspects of behavior change. Andy expounds on intrinsic motivation, the stages of the change model, challenging limiting beliefs about alcohol, and the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical aspects of transformation. Our conversation digs into real-world scenarios, dating without drinking, peer pressure, moderation versus complete abstinence, and the importance of community support. Additionally, Andy talks about the broader applicability of psychology and behavioral change principles beyond the alcohol-free ecosystem. 

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Andy Ramage on the Benefits of An Alcohol-Free Lifestyle

This week I am joined by Raghunath Cappo, a hardcore punk icon turned modern-day spiritual warrior and Bhakti yoga devotee, to discuss various facets of living a spiritual life. We talk about the transformative principles guiding the path of self-transcendence, examining cultural differences between India and America regarding spirituality and identity. We discuss the vital roles of mentors and the essence of yoga practices like mantra meditation, japa, ritual, kirtan, and devotional dancing as avenues for spiritual expression. Raghunath reflects on navigating the challenges of ego and ambition while nurturing spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of mindful choices, boundaries, and self-regulation. Additionally, we underscore the power of storytelling, community, and positivity while looking ahead to Raghunath's continuing mission to inspire spiritual fulfillment. 

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From Punk to Monk: Raghunath Cappo on The Wisdom of The Sages, Bhakti Yoga & The Pursuit of a Spiritual Life

This week, I am joined by Tanya O’Callaghan, a musician, speaker, and activist, to discuss her unconventional journey from Ireland to a globally touring rock musician dedicated to advocacy. She talks about her roots volunteering at an animal shelter, her unexpected rise through LA’s music scene after a chance encounter with Maynard Keenan of Tool, and her commitment to a plant-based lifestyle even while on tour playing alongside legendary acts like Whitesnake, Puscifer, Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson, and Dee Snider. Tanya discusses touring, the evolving food landscape in Ireland, and her deeply personal projects—a touring documentary promoting plant-based diets, and an upcoming film highlighting how plant-based nutrition can support veteran health and well-being. She also emphasizes staying true to your passions, engaging in respectful dialogue, and using storytelling to drive positive change.

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Plant-Based Bassist Tanya O'Callaghan On How Changing Your Plate Can Change The World

This week, I am joined by Jonathan Haidt, an NYU professor and best-selling author, to discuss the significant negative impact of technology and social media on young people’s mental health and well-being. This phenomenon was catalyzed between 2010 and 2015 when smartphones were introduced and platforms like Instagram and Snapchat rose in popularity. He explains the harmful effects of hyper-connectivity, including loneliness, depression, self-harm, and suicide, as well as the foundational harms of social deprivation, sleep deprivation, cognitive fragmentation, and addiction. We examine the gender differences surrounding the impact of technology on mental health. Jonathan highlights the addictive nature of social media platforms and the collective action problem that prevents individuals from disengaging. He proposes potential solutions, such as setting clear norms for smartphone and social media use, implementing phone-free school policies, and restoring childhood independence. We also discuss the need for regulation and bipartisan support to address the toxic effects of social media on children's mental health. 

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Fueling Performance With Play: Ultra-Runner Mike Wardian On Crushing World Records & Work-Life Balance

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