Surfing For Change: Buy Local, Surf Global

Cal Newport, a bestselling author and Computer Science professor at Georgetown University, advocates for a slower approach to productivity that enhances work-life balance and reduces burnout. His philosophy promotes a deliberate and measured approach to work that emphasizes simplicity, autonomy, and thoughtful task engagement. In a world constantly bombarded with communication channels, Cal challenges the idea of constant activity and pseudo-productivity, advocating for a medicinal remedy of deliberate pacing and doing less to minimize undue communication. In this conversation, we explore how to avoid suboptimal navigating of daily schedules, offering insights on improving functionality, focus, and sustaining productivity. Cal addresses challenges related to managing external pressures, prioritizing quality over quantity, intentional time management, and balancing ambition with work-life equilibrium. We discuss autonomy in creative work, common productivity mistakes, dealing with schedule intrusion, and escaping the gravitational pull of email. Cal highlights the impact of slow productivity on modern knowledge work and provides practical strategies for effective workload management, communication, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. He emphasizes the significance of meaningful work and the crucial role of setting boundaries to protect time and focus. Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: InsideTracker:  25% OFF with code RICHROLL 👉insidetracker.com/RICHROLL Roka: Unlock 20% OFF your order with code RICHROLL  👉ROKA.com/RICHROLL AG1: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 & 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs 👉 drinkAG1.com/richroll NordicTrack: Top-tier treadmills, bikes, rowers, and more  👉nordictrack.com Squarespace: Get FREE trial 👉 Squarespace.com/RICHROLL

4 Mar 20242h 25min

Don’t forget the struggle, the streets, or your roots, and resist selling out—such is the message from today's guest, Toby Morse. Toby, the frontman of the hardcore punk band H2O and host of the One Life One Chance podcast, is here to dispense a rebellious prescription of Positive Mental Attitude (PMA). Inspired by the 1988 Lower East Side transgressive punk rock scene, Toby formed H2O, synonymous with Straight Edge and PMA communities. Committed to a plant-based, drug, and alcohol-free lifestyle, Toby defies societal norms in the music and tattooed subcultures. Celebrating individuality, he champions misfits, spreading hope for positive change among the youth.  Our conversation explores the profound significance of friendship, fatherhood, and the transformative journey within the hardcore punk movement. Toby advocates for a non-conformist lifestyle, aligning with his passion for animal rights and fostering positivity amidst societal challenges and social media acrimony. We delve into Toby's fitness regimen, cold plunging, and the pursuit of authenticity in podcasting. This conversation is uplifting, insightful, and gratifying—an exploration of punk ethos, friendship, and positivity. Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: Bon Charge:  Use code RICHROLL to save 15% OFF 👉boncharge.com/RICHROLL AG1: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 & 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs 👉 drinkAG1.com/richroll Waking Up: Get a FREE month, plus $30 OFF  👉wakingup.com/RICHROLL Roka: Unlock 20% OFF your order with code RICHROLL  👉ROKA.com/RICHROLL This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp: Listeners get 10% OFF their first month 👉 BetterHelp.com/RICHROLL

26 Feb 20241h 27min

Conversation matters—but it only matters if you understand the nature of conversation itself. But how can we improve conversation to better connect and solve the problems we face? Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of The Power of Habit, shares insights on improving communication in his latest work, Supercommunicators. With degrees from Yale and Harvard Business School, Duhigg has contributed to prestigious publications like the Washington Post and the New Yorker. In "Supercommunicators," he explores the neuroscience and psychology shaping our interactions. Supercommunicators comprehend the scientific intricacies of human connection. They understand that we engage in one of three conversations every time we speak: What is this really about? How do we feel? And, who are we? The linchpin for establishing connections, deciphering unspoken nuances, and ensuring active listening lies in comprehending the underlying neuroscience and psychology influencing our conversations.  The discussion covers critical concepts like looping for understanding and the matching principle. We explore practical steps for navigating challenging conversations, highlighting the importance of physical mirroring and emotional matching in effective communication. Charles underscores the significance of connection, revealing that a thriving dialogue hinges on comprehending the other person's perspective rather than focusing on persuasion. Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: Inside Tracker: Get 25% OFF all Inside Tracker tests 👉insidetracker.com/richroll  Camelbak: Use code RICHROLL for 20% OFF 👉 CamelBak.com AG1: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 & 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs 👉 drinkAG1.com/richroll Go Brewing: Get 15% OFF with my code Rich Roll 👉gobrewing.com/discount/richroll  Whoop: Enjoy a FREE 30-day trial  👉 join.whoop.com/roll

22 Feb 20242h 7min

In a world saturated with comforts, overstimulation, and the perpetual allure of convenience, a crisis has quietly emerged. It is the pervasive influence of the “Scarcity Brain” that wires our minds to crave more. Michael Easter, an author, investigative journalist, and UNLV professor, offers insights to rectify the craving mindset in his books, The Comfort Crisis and the New York Times bestseller Scarcity Brain. Michael reveals the driving psychological aspect behind our technological compulsions—exploiting the scarcity loop—comprising components of opportunity, unpredictable rewards, and quick repeatability. Our evolutionary origins in scarcity clash with our present reality of abundance. The conversation extends to Michael’s journey with sobriety, exploring the scarcity loop’s impact on addictive behaviors. It delves into strategies for reducing addictive behaviors, achieving balance with technology, and addressing the comfort crisis. We also discuss social media’s impact on the brain, minimalism, and technological addictions. Understanding the psychological loop can transform our relationship with the digital world, and recognizing these behaviors is crucial for positive change. The hope is that this revelatory conversation equips you with tools to identify scarcity loops, understand your interactions, and reverse these behaviors.  Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: LMNT: Get a FREE sample pack here 👉 drinkLMNT.com/RICHROLL Eight Sleep: Get $200 OFF the Pod 3 Cover 👉 EightSleep.com/RICHROLL  AG1: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 & 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs👉 drinkAG1.com/richroll Squarespace: Use code RichRoll to save 10%  👉Squarespace.com/RichRoll  On: Get 10% OFF 👉 on.com/RICHROLL

19 Feb 20241h 52min

Harvard’s renowned “Mother of Mindfulness,” Dr. Ellen Langer offers an insightful assessment: the root cause of global challenges lies in mindlessness. With an illustrious forty-five-year career and the distinction of being the first woman to attain psychology tenure at Harvard. Her extensive work spans diverse topics, including the illusion of control, mindful aging, stress, decision-making, and health, challenging the conventional mind-body dualism in Western medicine.In her latest book, The Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic Health, Dr. Langer delves into the transformative potential of mindfulness for improving health. This conversation dismantles the separation between mind and body, exploring the concept of mind-body unity. She dissects the power of belief, dispels the illusion of control, and offers a novel perspective on decision-making and manipulation. The discourse extends to the psychological construct of fatigue, demonstrating how mindfulness positively influences physical endurance.Advocating for a paradigm shift, Dr. Langer encourages liberating ourselves from past experiences and conventional wisdom. This transformative mindset, she asserts, unlocks untapped potential, fostering increased agency and empowerment. The discussion reveals intricate connections between the mind and body, providing practical tips and cutting-edge research to empower individuals to take control of their health and achieve enhanced well-being. Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: Seed: use code RICHROLL25 for 25% OFF 👉 seed.com/RICHROLL Birch: Enjoy 20% OFF + 2 free eco-rest pillows 👉 BirchLiving.com/richroll On: Get 10% OFF 👉 on.com/RICHROLL Momentous: Get 20% OFF OFF 👉 livemomentous.com/richroll Waking Up: get a FREE month, plus $30 OFF 👉  wakingup.com/RICHROLL This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp: Get 10% OFF your first month 👉 BetterHelp.com/RICHROLL. Dr. Ellen Langer will be hosting a private, intimate Couples Retreat in Puerto Vallarta Mexico March 9-14, 2026.  For information please email Randy Lennon at randy@lennon.media.

12 Feb 20241h 51min

Last fall, Harvey Lewis captured the international spotlight at Big’s Backyard Ultra in rural Tennessee. The high school teacher broke a world record, running an astounding 450 miles in 108 hours—more than the distance from DC to Boston.  But—I implore you—don’t let his humility deceive you. Inside Harvey roams a myriad of animalistic tenacity ready to be unleashed. A beloved teacher at Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts, Harvey redefines human capability with 27 years of ultra-running experience, 115 ultras, podium finishes at Badwater 135, and a five-time USA National 24-hour Team member. Today, we explore Big’s, including Harvey's readiness to run through another night, his approach to sleep deprivation, spirit animals, transcendence, and mindset. Harvey guides us through his coach-less training and the motivations behind his extensive running feats, racing for the Brighton Center, a Kentucky non-profit supporting families.  Additionally, Harvey’s fiancée, Kelly, provides exclusive insights into his personality and kindness, sharing charming details like stopping for lightning bugs and hosting popsicle parties. She discusses her ultra-running experiences and participation in Netflix's Squid Game Challenge. I immensely admire Harvey. He embodies humility, champions gracefully, and exudes a delightful presence—a hero the world needs. Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: CamelBak: Get 20% OFF with code RICHROLL 👉camelbak.com Bon Charge: Enjoy 15% OFF with code RICHROLL 👉boncharge.com/RICHROLL Squarespace: Get 10% OFF 👉squarespace.com/RICHROLL Plunge: Use code RICHROLL for 150$ OFF 👉plunge.com AG1: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 & 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs 👉DrinkAG1.com/RICHROLL

8 Feb 20242h 29min

Amidst the growing concerns over nutritional safety, there is a pressing need for increased awareness about making informed choices and living in a healthy environment. But how can we guarantee the safety of our food, water, and consumer products? Today, I’m speaking with Ken Cook, the President and co-founder of the non-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG). We delve into the organization's pioneering role in digital innovation. EWG’s user-friendly, science-driven tools empower American families to minimize exposure to potential hazards in food, water, cosmetics, and household products. Recognized as a prominent environmental critic, Ken sheds light on the influence of lobbying on environmental policy and the urgent need to rebuild trust in regulatory bodies.  Our discussion covers diverse topics, from harmful chemicals in personal care products to the divergent regulatory approaches between Europe and the US. Ken also addresses agricultural subsidies, the farm bill, and the pivotal role of consumer choices in driving positive industry changes. The episode concludes by highlighting EWG’s Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists, advocating conscious consumer choices, and recognizing the significant impact of young people in shaping a positive future. Additionally, practical guidance is provided for informed shopping decisions, encouraging using EWG’s valuable resources.  Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: INSIDE TRACKER: Get 25% OFF tests 👉insidetracker.com/RICHROLL ON: Enjoy 10% OFF 👉ON.com/RICHROLL EIGHT SLEEP: $250 OFF 👉EIGHTSLEEP.com/RICHROLL GO BREWING: 15% OFF with code RICHROLL 👉GOBREWING.com AG1: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 & 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs 👉DrinkAG1.com/RICHROLL WAKING UP: FREE Month 👉WAKINGUP.com/RICHROLL Peace + Plants, Rich

5 Feb 20242h 3min

Today we discuss, perhaps, the most audacious goal in the history of humanity and question: is death inevitable?  Bryan Johnson is a modern-day explorer who has dedicated significant resources over the last few years to arresting—and possibly even reversing—his biological age. In doing so, he is reframing the zeitgeist and revolting against our culture of self-destructive behaviors. Centered on Project Blueprint and the ambition to halt and potentially reverse biological aging, he challenges cultural norms that tend towards self-destructive behaviors.  Despite my initial skepticism, Bryan’s mission emerges as humanitarian. His ventures include Kernel, a brain activity monitoring company, and OS Fund, a science and tech venture capital firm. We explore Bryan’s exodus from Mormonism and his AI-centric vision for the future.  Amid critical press, I urge listeners to approach with discernment as Bryan delves into longevity science with emotional depth. It prompts profound contemplation about aging and humanity’s role in an imminent, unimaginable future.  Show notes + MORE Watch on YouTube Newsletter Sign-Up Today’s Sponsors: INSIDE TRACKER: Get 25% OFF tests 👉insidetracker.com/RICHROLL ROKA: Enjoy 20% OFF 👉ROKA.com/RICHROLL BON CHARGE: 15% OFF 👉BONCHARGE.com/RICHROLL AG1: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 & 5 FREE AG1 Travel Packs 👉 drinkAG1.com/RICHROLL WAKING UP: FREE Month 👉WAKINGUP.com/RICHROLL This episode was brought to you by BetterHelp: enjoy 10% off your first month 👉BETTERHELP.COM/RICHROLL Peace + Plants, Rich

29 Jan 20242h 37min