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PODCAST · health

Chasing Life

All over the world, there are people who are living extraordinary lives, full of happiness and health – and with hardly any heart disease, cancer or diabetes. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has been on a decades-long mission to understand how they do it, and how we can all learn from them. Scientists now believe we can even reverse the symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia, and in fact grow sharper and more resilient as we age. Sanjay is a dad – of three teenage daughters, he is a doctor - who operates on the brain, and he is a reporter with more than two decades of experience - who travels the earth to uncover and bring you the secrets of the happiest and healthiest people on the planet – so that you too, can Chase Life.

  1. 625

    How to Beat a Migraine

    Migraine headaches are debilitating, and their triggers and underlying causes can be mysterious. Dr. Sanjay Gupta invites neurologist Alexander Mauskop, author of “The End of Migraines” to explain how migraines start and how to stop them. Our show was produced by Sofía Sanchez Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  2. 624

    Your Summer Sunscreen Refresher

    Summer is upon us, which means sunscreen should be, too. Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains the difference between mineral and chemical formulas, and how well they protect the body’s largest organ. Plus more tips for correct application, and other ways to stay sun-safe this season.  This episode was produced by Andrea Kane and Madeleine Thompson.   Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  3. 623

    Melinda French Gates Is Taking on the Women’s Health Gap. Here’s How

    For a lot of women, getting the right care at the right time can make all the difference... but that doesn’t always happen. Too often, women’s health is underfunded, under-researched, or under-treated. Melinda French Gates joins Sanjay to explain why women are still being overlooked and why midlife, menopause, and maternal and reproductive health often fall through the cracks. She also breaks down her new funding push – and what smarter, more targeted investment could mean for women’s lives. Our show was produced by Andrea Kane and Jennifer Lai.   Video Editor: Ross Helman with support by Jasmine Brooks.Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Dan BloomTechnical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  4. 622

    Why No One Should Ever Use Air Dryers in Public Bathrooms

    Should you use an air dryer or paper towels to dry your hands after washing them in a public bathroom? Dr. Sanjay Gupta shares his take. Plus, plasma donation is a growing trend across the country. Dr. Gupta digs into the reasons why and if there are any long-term health consequences. This episode was produced by Leying Tang. Medical Writer: Andrea KaneShowrunner: Dan BloomTechnical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  5. 621

    How to Help Your Parents Cut Down Their Screen Time

    Screen time worries aren’t just for kids anymore. Families are seeing the same habits in parents and grandparents. Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks with psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma about risks to the aging brain, warning signs and what families can do. Our show was produced by Kyra Dahring and Jennifer Lai. Medical Writer: Andrea KaneShowrunner: Dan BloomTechnical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  6. 620

    Should You Be Worried About Ebola?

    As a growing Ebola outbreak in Central Africa raises alarm, listeners have questions about what it is, how it spreads, and how worried they should be. Sanjay breaks down what we know — including why Ebola is highly infectious but not easily contagious — and why this outbreak has experts on alert. Plus, what it could mean for travel and the upcoming World Cup.  This episode was produced by Andrea Kane and Leying Tang Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  7. 619

    Hope and Advice for Recent Grads

    Dr. Sanjay Gupta returned to his alma mater, University of Michigan Medical School, where he addressed the Class of 2026. Today on Chasing Life, he shares that warm welcome to the newest grads, full of lessons from the field. Our show was produced by Sofía Sanchez Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  8. 618

    What You Should Know About Nighttime Leg Cramps

    If you’ve ever woken up to a sudden, painful leg cramp, you’re not alone. Sanjay takes a closer look at a listener's question about nighttime leg cramps -- and why popular remedies like bananas and magnesium don’t always help. Plus, what swollen feet and ankles can reveal about your health.  This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai with assistance from Elizabeth Corallo Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  9. 617

    What Your Hair Knows About Your Health That You Don’t

    Thinning hair, shedding, and sudden graying can send people searching for answers. This week, Sanjay speaks with dermatologist and Harvard assistant professor Dr. Maryanne Makredes Senna about what could be driving hair loss, what to watch for, and which treatments are actually worth it. Plus, practical tips and the biggest myths to avoid. This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai and Kyra Dahring.   Medical Writer: Andrea Kane  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  10. 616

    What You Need to Know About Hantavirus

    After a deadly outbreak on an expedition cruise ship, listeners have questions about hantavirus and what it means for them. Sanjay breaks down what we know about how it spreads, and how worried you actually need to be. Plus, what experts are saying about the pandemic potential of the virus.  This episode was produced by Andrea Kane, Jennifer Lai and Kyra Dahring. Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  11. 615

    AI Is in Your Healthcare Now. Here’s What to Know

    More people are turning to AI for health advice, but how reliable is it? Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with Dr. Bob Wachter, author of "A Giant Leap," to unpack how AI is already helping patients and doctors, where it can go wrong, and how to use these tools safely without over relying on them. Dr. Gupta is a practicing neurosurgeon and member of the National Academy of Medicine’s AI Code of Conduct Steering Committee. He has previously provided limited consulting to OpenEvidence as a medical advisor. Our show was produced by Kyra Dahring with support from Jennifer Lai and Elizabeth Corallo Medical Writer: Andrea KaneSenior Producer: Dan BloomTechnical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  12. 614

    Will Mocktails Help Reduce Your Cancer Risk?

    We all know drinking alcohol is bad for our health, but how much can it reduce our risk of cancer if we drink less or even cut it out entirely? This week, Dr. Sanjay Gupta digs into the correlation between consuming alcohol and risk of cancer as well as alternatives to alcohol if you’re feeling pressured to drink. Plus, we explain if silicone is a better alternative to replace plastic and what the differences between these two materials are.  This episode was produced by Leying Tang  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom  Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  13. 613

    Why GLP-1s May or May Not Be for You

    GLP-1s are no longer only for weight loss or diabetes. Dr. Sanjay Gupta invites CNN's Meg Tirrell back to Chasing Life to update on the drug’s benefits and risks. Plus, why they’ve personally considered -- and decided against – taking one. Our show was produced by Sofia Sanchez Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  14. 612

    What You’ve Wanted to Know About Autism but Were Too Afraid to Ask

    In response to a listener's call about her autistic son, Dr. Sanjay Gupta invited leading autism researcher Dr. Matthew Lerner, Director of the Social Connections and Treatment Lab at the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, to break down how our understanding of autism has changed, what it means to be “on the spectrum” and why diagnoses are on the rise. The conversation continues next Tuesday on Paging Dr. Gupta, where Sanjay explores what growing up and transitioning into adulthood really looks like for autistic people. Our show was produced by Jennifer Lai and Kyra Dahring Medical Writer: Andrea KaneShowrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan BloomTechnical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  15. 611

    What Happens When Mom-To-Be Smokes Weed While Pregnant?

    Can using cannabis help women manage health issues related to endometriosis and perimenopause? Should women use weed while pregnant or breast feeding? CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr Sanjay Gupta tackles some of your health questions regarding weed and women.  Learn more about the effects of cannabis on women, by watching the latest installment of Dr. Gupta’s documentary series, Weed 8: Weed and Women, available stream now on the CNN app. This episode was produced by Andrea Kane and Leying Tang Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  16. 610

    How Hypnosis May Be More Real, and Powerful, Than You Think

    Most people might think hypnosis is just stage tricks. But the science tells a different story. Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks with Stanford’s Dr. David Spiegel about how clinical hypnosis may help with pain, anxiety, and bad habits. He also explains why elite athletes use it to improve focus and performance, and how you might be able to use it yourself. Producer: Kyra Dahring Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  17. 609

    Do Astronauts Float Around While They Sleep?

    Four astronauts returned to Earth recently, after a historic 10-day lunar flyby mission in which they ventured farther into space than any human has before. They were part of Artemis II, NASA’s flight to test how well the agency’s Orion spacecraft, and the astronauts, operate in deep space — all in preparation for longer-term trips to the moon and beyond. CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr Sanjay Gupta answers some of your health-related questions about the mission, including: How do they sleep in zero gravity? What’s up with all those hot sauces? This episode was produced by Leying Tang and Andrea Kane   Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  18. 608

    Everybody Poops— So, Why Is It So Hard to Talk About?

    Even though everyone poops, most of us don’t really want to be reminded of that fact: we downright avoid discussing bowel habits with anyone — even our own doctor. But what happens in our gut is inextricably linked to our overall health. Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with neurogastroenterologist and author of the new book “You’ve Been Pooping All Wrong,” Dr. Trisha Pasricha, to discuss the brain-gut axis, the microbiome and what really is normal. Producer and Medical Writer: Andrea Kane  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom  Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  19. 607

    Do You Still Need Your Beta Blocker? Here’s the Latest

    For decades, beta blockers were the go‑to prescription after a heart attack - meant to slow the heart rate and prevent future heart attacks. However, doctors are now reconsidering that long‑held approach. This week, Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains who may still need these drugs, who might not, and why tapering safely matters. Also, a listener question about the long‑term side effects of beta blockers. This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai and Nadia Kounang Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  20. 606

    Did the iPhone Change Everything... Including Us?

    When the first iPhone was unveiled, it sparked a tech revolution. But who could have imagined how much it would reshape our lives? In this episode, Sanjay sits down with CNN’s Chief Climate Correspondent Bill Weir to talk about his new documentary 50 Years of Apple — exploring how our devices have woven themselves into our homes, our habits, and even our parenting. They dig into the rise of screen addiction, what constant device use may be doing to our brains, and where Apple (and our tech‑filled future) may be headed next.  50 Years of Apple for The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper airs Saturday April 4 at 10 p.m. ET on CNN, or you can stream it now on CNN All Access. This episode was produced by Kyra Dahring with assistance from Jennifer Lai Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  21. 605

    Want to Keep Your Eyes in Tip-Top Shape? Here’s How

    As more of us spend our days staring at screens, keeping our eyes healthy matters more than ever. This week, Dr. Sanjay Gupta digs into the small habits, smart food choices, and the right eye drops that can help protect your “super peepers” for the long run. Plus, we dig into why one listener feels weak even while staying active -- and why the difference between strength and muscle mass matters. This episode was produced by Leying Tang and Jennifer Lai.  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  22. 604

    Is Cortisol Hurting You or Helping You?

    Cortisol gets blamed for everything from sleepless nights to stubborn belly fat, but the real story is far more complicated. Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks with Dr. Robert Sapolsky, a neuroscientist, biologist, and Stanford University professor, and author of Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers, about what this stress hormone actually does and why it matters. Sapolsky explains how chronic stress affects sleep, metabolism, mood, and long‑term health, and shares what we can learn from creatures who manage stress far better than we do... including how you might do the same.   Our show was produced by Jennifer Lai.   Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  23. 603

    How Early Should You Check Your Cholesterol?

    If you thought high cholesterol was something to worry about later in life, you’re not alone. But new advice has a lot of people wondering if they should be getting checked sooner. Dr. Sanjay Gupta breaks down the new guidelines, who should pay attention, and what it actually means for you.  Want to check your risk? Try the American Heart Association’s PREVENT calculator.    Producer: Kyra Dahring    Medical Writer: Andrea Kane    Showrunner: Amanda Sealy    Senior Producer: Dan Bloom    Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  24. 602

    Why Allergies Are Getting Worse

    “All About Allergies” is the new book by Dr. Zachary Rubin, a double-board certified allergist and immunologist who joins Dr. Sanjay Gupta to break down what distinguishes an allergy from an intolerance, what flags to watch out for before a reaction, and explain what to expect from a trip to the allergist’s office. Plus, Dr. Gupta shares a surprising story about a time he swelled up from eating a mango. Produced by Sofia H. Sanchez Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Producer: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  25. 601

    Are Eggs as Bad for Your Cholesterol as People Think?

    Americans eat hundreds of eggs a year. But when it comes to cholesterol, how much of an impact do those eggs make We crack open the science on this week’s Paging Dr. Gupta. Plus, what really happens to your pelvic floor when you lift heavier weights? This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  26. 600

    Believe Your Brain is Destined to Decline? Think Again.

    Most of us assume major brain decline and memory loss are inevitable as we age, but research shows that’s not the case. So what does it take to keep your brain healthy and even help it grow? Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks to neurologist and neuroscientist Dr. Majid Fotuhi about his new book, “The Invincible Brain.” It lays out a 12-week, science-backed program for preventing and even reversing cognitive decline by tapping into the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt, rebuild and even improve at any age. Producer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda SealySenior Producer: Dan BloomTechnical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  27. 599

    Here’s Why You Should Take Your Shoes off at the Door...Please

    Whether it’s a cultural custom or hygiene preference, many households keep a strict no-shoes policy. But, how much healthier does it really keep us? Dr. Sanjay Gupta gets to the bottom of your shoes -- literally. Plus, tips on how to manage stress and anxiety when the news cycle is overwhelming.  This episode was produced by Andrea Kane and Sofia H. Sanchez Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  28. 598

    Could Caring for Others Change Your Brain for the Better?

    We all know caregiving takes time, energy, and emotional bandwidth — but it may also change us for the better. Sanjay sits down with writer Elissa Strauss, author of When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caregiving, to explore how caregiving affects the brain, why it could be good for your health, and practical ways to care without losing yourself.  Our show was produced by Jennifer Lai with assistance from Jesse Remedios.   Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  29. 597

    Denmark's Vaccine Lessons for America

    US health officials have recently reduced the childhood vaccine schedule, taking cues from Denmark's leaner approach. Dr. Sanjay Gupta travels to Copenhagen to understand why some Americans think Denmark's model is worth copying. Producer & Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  30. 596

    The Miracle and Mystery of Consciousness

    Can modern science explain, or even define, the mystery of human consciousness? Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with writer Michael Pollan to talk about his new book, A World Appears: A Journey Into Consciousness, and explore the unmapped territory of our inner lives. They discuss where (and if) consciousness lives in the brain, whether plants and artificial intelligence can be conscious, and why we must protect our inner lives in an increasingly technological world.  Our show was produced by Jesse Remedios with assistance from Jennifer Lai. Medical Writer: Andrea KaneShowrunner: Amanda SealySenior Producer: Dan BloomTechnical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  31. 595

    Are Showerhead Filters and LED Face Masks Worth It?

    Showerhead filters and LED face masks come with a lot of beauty claims...but do they deliver? Dr. Sanjay Gupta tackles two popular hair and skin trends, with insight from dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, breaking down what the science says and whether they’re worth trying at home.  Producer: Kyra Dahring   Medical Writer: Andrea Kane   Showrunner: Amanda Sealy   Senior Producer: Dan Bloom   Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  32. 594

    How Hibernation Could Redefine Space Travel and Medicine

    Animals can hibernate, slowing down most metabolic functions — heart rate, blood flow, brain activity, and body temperature — then waking as if nothing happened. Humans have never done this, but what if they could? Could hibernation extend life or even save it?  Dr. Sanjay Gupta explores global research into the molecular mechanics of hibernation and how these abilities might one day help fight cancer, prevent heart disease, treat depression, and even enable travel to Mars. This episode was produced by Amanda Sealy Medical writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Adeline Chen and Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  33. 593

    Think You’re Too Young for Colorectal Cancer? Think Again.

    Colorectal cancer is rising quickly among young adults – in fact, it’s the leading cause of cancer deaths for adults under 50 in the United States. And after actor James Van Der Beek’s diagnosis and death at 48, many are wondering how to tell when everyday symptoms might actually be something more serious. On this week's Paging Dr. Gupta, we break down the red flags and tell you what to know about screening. Plus, vibration plates are popping up in gyms and living rooms — but do they actually deliver the benefits they promise?  More on what’s behind the rise of colon cancer in young people with Dr. Kimmie Ng. This episode was produced by Andrea Kane, Jennifer Lai and Kyra Dahring.  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  34. 592

    The Science Behind a Broken Heart

    Love can be one of life’s greatest joys and heartbreak one of its deepest pains. Sanjay talks with psychiatrist and neuroscientist Yoram Yovell about how heartbreak affects the body, why emotional pain can feel physical, and what actually helps people heal. Producer: Kyra Dahring  Medical Writer: Andrea Kane  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom  Technical Director: Dan Dzula Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  35. 591

    Do Endurance Sports Damage Your Brain?

    Is it possible to have too much of a good thing? Dr. Sanjay Gupta breaks down what research says about long-distance training and neurodegenerative diseases. Plus, he reports on which type of field is safer for young athletes to play on: turf or grass.   This episode was produced by Jesse Remedios.  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Medical Writer: Andrea Kane  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom   Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  36. 590

    How You Can Stay Motivated to Exercise

    We all know exercise is good for our health, but have you already quit your New Year’s fitness goal? Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with psychologist Dr. Diana Hill to break down why we don’t want to move and how to find our personal motivation to exercise throughout the year.  This episode was produced by Leying Tang Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  37. 589

    What to Know Before Trying Cannabis for Arthritis Pain

    CBD and THC are being used more than ever for arthritis and joint pain. But does microdosing cannabis really help with inflammation, and what should you know before trying it? We’ll dig into the science and also take a closer look at research suggesting lifestyle changes may help slow - or even improve - early Alzheimer’s. This episode was produced by Jennifer Lai Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Senior Producer: Dan Bloom  Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  38. 588

    Why You Should Brush Your Teeth Before Breakfast

    We all know we should brush and floss our teeth. But the reason goes beyond a sparkling smile and keeping bad breath at bay. The mouth is a critical and often overlooked organ when it comes to improving overall health. Dr. Sanjay Gupta sits down with Dr. Kami Hoss, author of “If Your Mouth Could Talk,” to discuss the importance of oral health and the brushing routine he recommends for morning and night.  For more on Dr. Hoss’ oral care recommendations, check out his e-book: https://supermouthcdn.blob.core.windows.net/website/The_Oral_Care_Revolution.pdf  -- Editors’ Note: This episode was assembled from two interviews (one host-led and one producer-led) that took place on separate occasions.  Our show was produced by Sofia Sanchez. Medical Writer: Andrea Kane; Showrunner: Amanda Sealy; Senior Producer: Dan Bloom; Technical Director: Dan Dzula; Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  39. 587

    Should You Eat Before or After Strength-Training?

    Strength training can be confusing enough on its own. But mix in what —and when— to eat, and you might just choose to sit on the couch instead. Dr. Sanjay Gupta serves up answers in this episode of Paging Dr. Gupta. Plus, getting to the root cause of hair loss in women can help narrow down treatment choice.  Producer & Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  40. 586

    What Matters to You? A New Way to Heal

    Doctors have long prescribed pills and procedures. But for some people, that isn’t enough. Sanjay sits down with Julia Hotz, author of The Connection Cure, to explore the rise of social prescribing—linking patients to things like volunteering, art, or nature—and how a simple question, “What matters to you?”, can change the way people heal.  Producer: Kyra Dahring Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  41. 585

    Cold Plunges: What the Science Shows

    Dr. Sanjay Gupta talks through the benefits and risks of cold plunges, and what the limited science tells us about its impacts on inflammation. Plus, the fascinating neuroscience behind why we itch. Producer: Jesse Remedios Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  42. 584

    How Far Would You Go to Replace Your Body? Mary Roach Has Thoughts

    For centuries, humans have tried to repair and replace our body parts -- from brass noses and pig organs to today’s lab-grown tissue. So where do we stand now?  Sanjay sits down with author Mary Roach to discuss her newest book, Replaceable You: Adventures in Human Anatomy, which explores the wild history and newest experiments behind human “upgrades,” from 3D‑printed muscle to the ethics of elective amputation and what these innovations mean for our aging bodies.     Our show was produced by Jennifer Lai with assistance from Leying Tang.   Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  43. 583

    Why Does Everyone Have the Flu?

    If it seems like everyone you know has the flu right now, you’re not that far off.  The US has had a record-breaking flu season and isn’t over yet. With the help of CNN medical correspondent Meg Tirrell, Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains how it’s not too late to protect yourself. Plus, Sanjay breaks down the recent changes to the US dietary guidelines. Producer: Sofia Sanchez Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  44. 582

    Why You're Breathing Wrong, and How to Fix It

    Chronic disease, anxiety, ADHD, and even the shape of a person's face could be consequences of dysfunctional breathing. And most of us, it turns out, are doing it wrong – but it’s never too late to fix it. Sanjay sits down with journalist James Nestor to discuss the fifth anniversary edition of Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, and how simple changes to the way we breathe can start improving our health right away.     Our show was produced by Jesse Remedios.  Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  45. 581

    Can Sense of Smell Be Recovered After Covid-19?

    Many people lost their sense of smell and taste during the early waves of Covid-19. Is there help for those who have yet to recover? CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta sniffs out answers. Plus, a listener warning about a new malady striking some hardcore cannabis users. Producer & Medical Writer: Andrea Kane Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  46. 580

    Pain is in the Brain

    We often think of pain starting at the source of an injury, but the truth is, it’s all starts in our brain. Dr. Sanjay Gupta explores how discovering the root cause of pain not only helps us understand it but also how to find much needed relief.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  47. 579

    Pain Becomes Personal for Sanjay

    Even as a trauma neurosurgeon, Dr. Sanjay Gupta thought he understood pain. But, when his mother fell and broke her back, it changed the way he thought about pain and how it impacts people’s lives.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  48. 578

    The Year in News: Deepfakes, MAHA & AI

    After a head-spinning year in the worlds of health and technology, Audie Cornish of The Assignment sat down with Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Clare Duffy from Terms of Service, to break down the stories that ended up on all their podcasts this year. Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  49. 577

    Sanjay’s Top 10 Health Stories of 2025

    From the resurgence of measles to a new way to treat pain, 2025 was a challenge for public health while still offering moments of hope. Sanjay recaps the year with his top 10 health stories of 2025. Producer & Showrunner: Amanda Sealy Medical Writer: Amanda Sealy Senior Producer: Dan Bloom Technical Director: Dan Dzula Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  50. 576

    How Storytelling Shapes the Way You Remember the Holidays

    The holidays are full of stories, laughter, and maybe a little disagreement. Ever try telling a story and hear someone say, “That’s not what happened!”? There’s actually science behind it. Dr. Signy Sheldon, a psychologist at McGill University, explains why our memories differ, how they shift over time, and shares tips for telling stories that connect—without sparking family debate.  Producer: Kyra Dahring  Medical Writer: Andrea Kane  Showrunner: Amanda Sealy  Senior Producer: Dan Bloom  Technical Director: Dan Dzula  Executive Producer: Steve Lickteig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

All over the world, there are people who are living extraordinary lives, full of happiness and health – and with hardly any heart disease, cancer or diabetes. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has been on a decades-long mission to understand how they do it, and how we can all learn from them. Scientists now believe we can even reverse the symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia, and in fact grow sharper and more resilient as we age. Sanjay is a dad – of three teenage daughters, he is a doctor - who operates on the brain, and he is a reporter with more than two decades of experience - who travels the earth to uncover and bring you the secrets of the happiest and healthiest people on the planet – so that you too, can Chase Life.

HOSTED BY

CNN Podcasts

Produced by CNN

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Chasing Life have?

Chasing Life currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Chasing Life about?

All over the world, there are people who are living extraordinary lives, full of happiness and health – and with hardly any heart disease, cancer or diabetes. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has been on a decades-long mission to understand how they do it, and how we can all learn from them. Scientists now believe...

How often does Chasing Life release new episodes?

Chasing Life has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Chasing Life?

You can listen to Chasing Life on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Chasing Life?

Chasing Life is created and hosted by CNN Podcasts.
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