Want to do something today that will positively impact your health, relationships and overall happiness? Of course, for all of us, the answer is yes. And it’s as simple as preparing a meal and enjoying it with friends and family.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Leslie Todd joins us on Smidgen to talk loneliness, isolation and how those factors affect mental health. Anne and Leslie talk about the role of electronics in our lives and how our devices are keeping us from forming close, interpersonal connections.
Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, Leslie offers simple tips for re-connecting by taking advantage of experiential learning—like Red Stick Spice Company cooking classes. After the interview, Anne heads to the kitchen with store staffer Sara to cook up Roasted Cauliflower with Capers, Walnuts and Yogurt.
Here’s a list of the links we mentioned in the podcast:
- Anne and Sara chat about all the ways this dish makes for an excellent choice when entertaining or inviting friends over. Serve it as an app or side dish. It’s also an excellent main dish for Vegetarians on your guest list.
- We roasted the cauliflower with our Harissa Extra Virgin Olive Oil and a sprinkling of Zhug. We make use of our All Natural Avocado Oil and White Balsamic Vinegar in the tangy cauliflower topping.
- Be sure to read more about Anne’s take on the importance of gathering—she’s built her entire business around this one simple act that pays dividends in health and happiness.
- Be sure to learn more about Leslie Todd and her business Strategies for Change.
- Leslie mentioned the importance of putting experiential learning on your calendar. Consider our Cooking Classes as a delicious way to connect with others. Leslie also mentioned dance classes and recommended Olli courses as well. For our Baton Rouge friends, find Olli courses at LSU For listeners outside Louisiana, contact local universities in your area to find Olli courses.
- Leslie also recommended reaching out to a trusted loved one, mentor, school or church leader if you’re concerned with feelings of isolation or loneliness. You can connect with mental health professionals in your area via the Psychology Today website.
- Learn more and contact Leslie Todd on her website.
WHERE TO LISTEN TO SMIDGEN:
Listen to Smidgen on the podcast player above or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app.