Ever wondered if you could actually turn back the biological clock? In this game-changing episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine welcome Dr. Michael Roizen—pioneering longevity expert, Chief Wellness Officer Emeritus at the World-Renowned Cleveland Clinic, author of 9 best selling books and 195+ Peer-Reviewed Papers, and Holder of 14 Patents—for a conversation that will completely shift how you think about aging, health, and the choices you make every single day.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• The jaw-dropping truth about mindset: You have power over 93% of your genes through daily choices
• Loads of simple tips and helpful facts, like getting a flu shot 10 years in a row can reduce dementia risk by 40%
• The “magic” of 10,000 steps a day and why 12,000 isn’t better than 10,000
• Why you need to find your personal health motivator (hint: it might be grandkids, sex, or not being a burden)
• The three P’s that matter most: Posse, Purpose, and Play
• How breathing with your diaphragm is working out your second-most important muscle
• A simple reframe that turns road rage into compassion
• The mission-critical need to manage stresses, both the major ones and the little nagging ones

Dr. Roizen breaks down complex longevity science into bite-sized, actionable wisdom and dives into the psychology of behavior change, exploring why financial incentives work and how empathy might be the most crucial human skill of all.

Ready to take control of your health destiny? This episode is your roadmap to living younger, longer, and with more energy than you thought possible. And it all starts with mindset.

(Full episode—packed with science, stories, and practical wisdom for anyone ready to age backwards!)

About Dr. Michael Roizen:

Dr. Michael Roizen is a trailblazing physician, bestselling author, and one of the world’s leading voices on healthy aging and wellness. As the longtime Chief Wellness Officer at the Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Roizen has devoted his career to making the science of longevity accessible and actionable for everyone. He’s perhaps best known for creating the RealAge concept, which empowers people to take charge of their health by understanding how daily choices affect their biological age. Dr. Roizen’s groundbreaking work includes coauthoring five #1 New York Times bestsellers, publishing nearly 200 peer-reviewed scientific papers, and holding 14 U.S. patents. He’s also served as a trusted advisor to the FDA, co-founded innovative health ventures, and appeared on national platforms from *The Oprah Winfrey Show* to *Good Morning America*. Whether he’s mentoring future doctors, developing new wellness programs, or breaking down complex science into practical tips, Dr. Roizen’s passion is helping people live younger, longer, and with more joy.

Helpful links:

• Check out Dr. Roizen’s books, newsletter, and longevity resources
• Watch the Cleveland Clinic’s viral empathy video mentioned in the episode
• Explore more episodes and the book at Be the Sun, Not the Salt

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever wonder how Be the Sun, Not the Salt came to life? In this special origin story episode, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine pull back the curtain on the journey from a single TED Talk to a bestselling book and a podcast that’s sparking positive change around the world.

What’s the story behind the sun and the salt?

• Harry shares how the phrase “lead people with an afterglow, not an aftertaste—be the sun, not the salt” first landed, and why it stuck with so many.
• Forget the “aha!” moment—this book grew out of Harry’s desire to leave behind a collection of simple, science-based, sticky reminders that anyone could use to live and lead better.
• Connie reveals how their paths crossed, why she instantly saw “billion dollar brand” potential, and how her marketing mind helped Harry’s vision become a movement.
• Discover the intentional choice behind short chapters, memorable phrases, and a focus on practical wisdom you’ll actually remember (and use).
• Harry and Connie reflect on why their different backgrounds—psychology and marketing, science and storytelling, life experience and curiosity—make the message more relatable, real, and fun for everyone.

You’ll hear the real, sometimes messy, always honest conversations that shaped the book and podcast. From debates about the title, to the moments they almost lost their cool (and how they turned it around), this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insights and a whole lot of heart.

Why listen?

If you’ve ever wanted to know what “heliotropic living” really means, why “not the salt” is just as important as “be the sun,” or how two friends turned a simple idea into a global movement—this is your invitation to join the story.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever find yourself nodding along to good advice… but not actually putting it into action? You’re not alone! In this final episode of our Gentle Nudge series, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine go all in on Chapter 30: “Frickin Do It”—the ultimate rally cry for turning knowledge into action and making positive habits stick.

Why should you tune in?

• Get a burst of motivation to move from “knowing” to “doing”—because real change happens when you take that first step, no matter how small.
• Hear how Harry and Connie keep it real about the daily struggle (and victory!) of practicing what they preach, even when life gets messy.
• Discover why the tiniest acts—holding the door, smiling at a stranger, or just not saying that snarky thing—can be the biggest wins for your mindset and relationships.
• Learn the secret to making positive habits automatic, with simple reminders and daily reflection that keep you on track.

This episode is perfect for anyone searching for inspiration on habit formation, motivation, positive mindset, and self-improvement. Whether you’ve listened to every Gentle Nudge or you’re just jumping in, “Frickin Do It” is your call to action to live what you know and shine a little brighter every day.

Ready to stop overthinking and start doing? Hit play, get inspired, and let’s keep spreading the sun—not the salt—together!

(Mini-episode, maximum motivation—perfect for your next coffee break, walk, or moment when you need that extra push!)

Looking for more?

• Share this episode with a friend who could use a nudge to take action.
• Subscribe for your weekly dose of positive mindset, self-improvement, and practical wisdom!
• Explore our archives for more on building habits, motivation, and living your best life.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever wish people really heard you—or that you could be the kind of listener everyone trusts? In this episode of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt,” Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine continue their Gentle Nudge series with Chapter 29: “Be an Olympic Listener”—your invitation to level up from “just hearing” to truly connecting.

Why tune in?

• Listening is an everyday superpower: Discover why being an “Olympic listener” isn’t just for therapists or leaders—it’s for anyone who wants stronger relationships, better communication, and more meaningful moments.
• More than ears: Learn how to “listen with your eyes” by picking up on body language, tone, and what’s not being said.
• Curiosity is key: Get practical tips for asking clarifying questions, double-checking what you heard, and showing genuine curiosity—so people feel seen, heard, and understood.
• Practice makes progress: Harry and Connie share real-life stories (and a few laughs) about how even the best listeners are always learning, and why it’s worth the effort to keep improving.

This episode is perfect for anyone searching for advice on active listening, communication skills, emotional intelligence, and building trust. Whether you’re looking to be a better partner, friend, leader, or just want to connect more deeply with the people around you, “Be an Olympic Listener” is your gentle nudge to show up, tune in, and make every conversation count.

Ready to go for listening gold? Hit play and join us for heartfelt stories, practical wisdom, and your weekly reminder that the best relationships start with being truly heard.

(Mini-episode, maximum connection—perfect for your next chat, coffee break, or moment of reflection!)

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever feel like there’s a daily battle between your best self and… well, the other one? What if winning was as simple as choosing which one to feed? 🤔

In this powerful episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine unpack Chapter 28: “Practice, Practice, Practice”—a transformative look at the one habit that changes everything.

Why should you tune in?

• Discover the ancient parable of the two wolves and what it reveals about mastering your inner world.
• Learn the crucial difference between honoring your negative feelings and accidentally pouring lighter fluid on them (a game-changer for emotional regulation!).
• Unpack the science of practice—how you can literally rewire your brain to make positivity your automatic reflex.
• Get inspired to build your “heliotropic muscle” and understand why a tiny mental shift from “I got to” to “I get to” can change your entire day.

Being heliotropic isn’t about perfection; it’s about practice. Whether you’re trying to build better habits, manage stress, or simply live a more positive life, this conversation offers the “how” behind the “what.”

Ready to start feeding the right wolf? Hit play for a powerful dose of inspiration.

Looking for more?

• Share this episode with a friend who’s on their own personal growth journey.
• Subscribe for your weekly dose of positive mindset, self-improvement, and practical wisdom!
• Revisit our episodes on gratitude and emotional regulation to deepen your practice.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever feel like giving up when things get tough or when others don’t play fair? What if the most powerful choice is to shine your light anyway? 🌟 In this Gentle Nudge episode of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt,” Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dive into Chapter 27: “Do It Anyway”—your ultimate anthem for resilience, perseverance, and choosing to be heliotropic no matter what.

Why should you tune in?

• Discover a timeless, powerful message (inspired by Mother Teresa’s wisdom) that will reframe how you face challenges and negativity.
• Learn how to build your “do it anyway” muscle, strengthening your resolve and emotional fortitude.
• Understand why choosing to be your best self—kind, honest, and dedicated—is ultimately about YOUR integrity and well-being, not about others’ reactions.
• Get inspired to overcome adversity and keep doing good, even when it’s hard, and find the deep satisfaction that comes from living by your highest principles.

This episode is perfect for anyone seeking motivation, inspiration for personal growth, or a stronger positive mindset. If you’ve ever needed a nudge to push through resistance and keep your spirit bright, “Do It Anyway” is your call to action.

(Mini-episode, maximum motivation—perfect for your next workout, challenging day, or moment of reflection!)

Looking for more?

• Share this episode with someone who inspires you to “do it anyway.”
• Subscribe for your weekly tips on positive mindset, self-improvement, and heliotropic living!
• Explore our podcast archives for more on building resilience and overcoming obstacles.
• Pick up our book for 30 timeless tools to be your best self more often.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever wondered what it means to make a difference—even when no one’s watching? 🌟 In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine guide you through Chapter 26: Fill in the Potholes—a thought-provoking conversation about small acts, big impact, and the quiet magic of doing good.

Why tune in?

• Discover how tiny, anonymous gestures can ripple out and change your world—and maybe even someone else’s.
• Get inspired to spot everyday opportunities to help, uplift, or simply smooth the path for others (and yourself).
• Hear real-life stories about what happens when people choose kindness over irritation, and action over apathy.
• Learn why sometimes the most powerful good deeds are the ones nobody notices—except you.

This episode is perfect for anyone searching for inspiration on kindness, positive mindset, emotional intelligence, and personal growth. Whether you’re looking for practical ways to boost your well-being, or just want to feel a little more connected to the world around you, “Fill in the Potholes” offers gentle nudges and real wisdom for living a sunnier, more meaningful life.

Ready to make a difference—and maybe even create a little good karma? Hit play and join the conversation.

(Mini-episode, maximum heart—perfect for your next walk, coffee break, or quiet moment of reflection!)

Looking for more?

• Share this episode with a friend who could use a little inspiration.
• Subscribe for your weekly dose of positive mindset, kindness, and personal growth!
• Explore more episodes - shortform and longer interviews with heliotropic exemplars - on emotional intelligence, self-improvement, and making a difference.

Reference Links from This Episode

Brad Aronson’s episode on creating big change through small acts

Be the Sun, Not the Salt book

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

What really matters—and what’s just noise? In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine invite you to hit pause and reflect with Chapter 25: “Decide What Matters Most.” If you’ve ever felt torn between speaking up or letting something go, this gentle nudge is for you.

What’s the Big Idea?

• Discover how to spot the difference between life’s real priorities and those little annoyances that try to steal your peace.
• Hear how Harry and Connie navigate tricky moments in family, work, and everyday life.
• Get inspired to build your own “green room” of trusted voices, so you can check your perspective before reacting.
• Walk away with a powerful question to ask yourself next time you’re caught in the moment (it might just change your day).

You won’t get a list of dos and don’ts here—just relatable stories, practical wisdom, and a few surprising insights that will have you examining what’s truly important. Whether you’re looking for tips on prioritization, self-reflection, or simply want to show up as your best self, this episode is packed with inspiration (and a little Victor Hugo for good measure).

Ready to focus on what matters most? Hit play and join us for a conversation that might just change the way you see your day.

(Mini-episode, maximum perspective—perfect for your next walk, coffee break, or moment of reflection!)

Reference Links:

Be the Sun, Not the Salt book

Tim Storey podcast episode: Miracle Mentality: Using Your Gifts

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.