Navigated to Alcohol Addiction, 100-Mile Races & A Broken Back | Rich Roll

Alcohol Addiction, 100-Mile Races & A Broken Back | Rich Roll

Nov 26, 2025
1h 28m

Episode Description

Rich Roll is a former Stanford swimmer and entertainment attorney whose life unraveled when alcoholism and unhealthy habits brought him to the brink of collapse. With two DUIs, a marriage that ended on the honeymoon, and lost friendships and family relationships, Rich finally faced enough pain to motivate change.

This is the story of Rich's reinvention through sobriety, plant-based nutrition, and an almost unbelievable immersion into endurance sports—transforming himself from an out-of-shape lawyer into one of the world's fittest men. His journey is an extraordinary example of personal responsibility, spiritual growth, and the power of incremental change.

Rich is now a bestselling author, leading podcaster, and wellness advocate. His numerous personal transformations, along with those of his guests on The Rich Roll Podcast, have inspired millions of people around the world.

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Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Gratitude

(00:27) Reflecting on Impact and Purpose

(01:54) Discussing Hard Times and Overcoming Challenges

(02:56) The Dark Days of Alcoholism

(05:35) Consequences and Legal Troubles

(07:30) The Turning Point and Seeking Help

(10:23) Rehabilitation and Recovery Journey

(11:15) Facing the Reality of Addiction

(23:34) The Marriage That Wasn't Meant to Be

(32:05) The Path to Sobriety

(42:55) Reflecting on Life's Blessings

(43:54) Gratitude and Sobriety

(44:15) Helping Those Who Feel Stuck

(45:15) The Reality of Alcoholism

(45:49) Day-to-Day Survival in Sobriety

(46:43) Building a Foundation of Sobriety

(49:33) Endurance Sports as Therapy

(50:36) Struggles and Triumphs in Endurance Sports

(52:36) The Journey to Self-Acceptance

(01:01:23) Back Surgery and Recovery

(01:16:39) The Podcast Journey

(01:24:26) Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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