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Episode #76 — Fall Nutrition 101, with Dr. David Gaviria Description Fall brings cooler temperatures, changing routines, and plenty of seasonal foods—but what does eating well this time of year actually look like? In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob welcomes back registered dietitian and UNC Assistant Professor Dr. David Gaviria for Fall Nutrition 101. David breaks down micronutrients, highlights the nutritional benefits of favorite fall foods, and discusses how seasonal eating can add variety to our diets. The conversation also tackles nutrition and immune health, vitamin D as sunlight exposure changes during the fall and winter, and when supplements may—or may not—be useful. David explains why nutrition and supplements should be viewed as part of a much larger health picture, using a pyramid analogy in which foundational behaviors like physical activity, social connection, and a nutritious dietary pattern form the base, while supplements sit near the top. From pumpkin and sweet potatoes to vitamin D and magnesium, this episode separates practical nutrition advice from seasonal wellness hype and offers simple ways to eat well this fall. Guest Bio Dr. David Gaviria, PhD, RD, is an Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a registered dietitian. His work focuses on nutrition, health, and translating nutrition science into practical strategies people can use in their everyday lives. Topics Covered What “eating well” looks like during the fall Favorite fall foods and the nutrients they provide Micronutrients 101: what vitamins and minerals do for the body Pumpkin, apples, sweet potatoes, squash, leafy greens, and other seasonal foods The benefits of dietary variety and seasonal eating Building nutritious meals during busy fall schedules Comfort foods, soups, chili, and eating well without unnecessary “healthy” makeovers Nutrition's role in supporting a healthy immune system Why “boosting” the immune system isn't as simple as taking a supplement Vitamin D, sunlight exposure, latitude, and seasonal changes Why living around or above 37° latitude can make maintaining vitamin D through sunlight more difficult during portions of the year Food-first approaches versus dietary supplements When supplementation may be appropriate Magnesium and other popular micronutrient trends David's “health pyramid”: prioritizing foundational behaviors before focusing on supplements Walking, physical activity, nutritious foods, and social connection as foundations for health Simple ways to improve your diet this fall

Fall is here—and with changing schedules, shorter days, and the return of familiar routines, it can be the perfect time to reset your fitness habits. In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob welcomes back Micaela Robinson, Director of Business Development at Elevation Health, to talk about how to “fall back into fitness.” From starting small and making movement fit into a busy day to strength training, accountability, recovery, and staying consistent as the seasons change, Micaela shares practical strategies for building a fitness routine you can actually sustain. Whether you took the summer off or simply need a fresh start, this episode will help you head into fall with a plan.

Description In this special 2-for-1 episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob reconnects with cognitive neuroscientists Dr. Justin Verlinden and Dr. Cassidy Leibold to discuss the latest science on mental health. From sleep, exercise, and stress to social connection and brain health, the conversations explore what we know, where research is headed, and the practical habits that can support mental well-being. Two expert perspectives, one episode, and plenty of evidence-based takeaways for living a healthier life. Justin shares updates from his work exploring sleep, stress, exercise, and brain health, while Cassidy discusses recent advances in behavioral neuroscience, the importance of social connection, and how our environments and experiences shape the brain. Together, these conversations examine what we currently know about mental health, where the science is headed, and the practical habits that can help support psychological well-being. Whether you're interested in the latest neuroscience or simply looking for evidence-based strategies to support your own mental health, this episode offers thoughtful insights from two outstanding researchers. The Elevate Yourself Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Athletic Brewing. Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% OFF your first online order at checkout!

Episode #73 — Rucking 101, with Dr. Franklin Muntis, PhD, RD, CSSD Guest Bio Dr. Franklin Muntis, PhD, RD, CSSD, is a registered dietitian and an officer in the United States Army. At Brooke Army Medical Center, he provides evidence-based nutrition education and counseling to improve the health and performance of military service members, retirees, and their families. Franklin is also a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD), an NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and a Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F). His unique background in nutrition, strength and conditioning, and tactical performance gives him a comprehensive perspective on how nutrition and physical training work together to optimize performance, recovery, and long-term health. Description In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob welcomes back Dr. Franklin Muntis for a practical introduction to one of the fastest-growing fitness trends: rucking. Drawing from his experience as an Army officer, sports dietitian, and strength and conditioning specialist, Franklin explains what rucking is, why it has long been a cornerstone of military training, and why it's becoming increasingly popular among recreational exercisers. The conversation explores the physical and mental benefits of rucking, how beginners can safely get started, common mistakes to avoid, and the equipment you actually need. Franklin also shares evidence-based nutrition strategies to support performance and recovery, including hydration, fueling, protein intake, and practical tips anyone can apply. Whether you're looking for a new fitness challenge, a low-impact way to build strength and endurance, or simply want to understand the science behind rucking, this episode provides an excellent place to start. Topics Covered Franklin's journey as an Army officer, sports dietitian, and tactical performance specialist What rucking is and the history behind military load carriage Why rucking has become increasingly popular beyond the military The unique fitness benefits of rucking How beginners can safely incorporate rucking into their routine Common mistakes to avoid when starting Equipment recommendations and whether specialized gear is necessary How rucking compares to walking, running, and traditional cardio Nutrition strategies to support rucking performance Hydration and electrolyte considerations Protein and recovery after longer rucks Lessons from military performance that apply to everyday fitness Learn More Brooke Army Medical Center National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition (SCAN) The Elevate Yourself Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Athletic Brewing. Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% OFF your first online order at checkout!

Dr. Stroope is an Assistant Professor in the School of Kinesiology at Louisiana State University. Stroope's research includes three overlapping areas: co-benefits of active transportation, public health approaches to increasing rural physical activity, and access to nature, with an overarching interest in how physical activity contributes to community thriving. Stroope is on the leadership team for the Physical Activity Policy, Research, and Evaluation Network (PAPREN) Rural Hub and serves on the Dissemination and Translation Board for the U Mass Prevention Research Center. Before joining the LSU School of Kinesiology, she spent ten years working for Cooperative Extension, with most of those years serving as the LSU AgCenter's physical activity specialist. In that role, she partnered with Extension agents, small towns, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, rural librarians, schools and other community partners to increase access to physical activity, with a particular focus on helping communities pursue funding for active transportation infrastructure. Description In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob sits down with Dr. Jessica Stroope to discuss how communities can be designed to support healthier, more active lives. Drawing from her experiences in public health, Cooperative Extension, and community-based research, Jessica explores the powerful role that active transportation, access to nature, and the built environment play in shaping physical activity behaviors. She shares lessons learned from working with rural communities, transportation departments, schools, libraries, and local leaders to create environments where movement is a natural part of everyday life. The conversation highlights how seemingly small environmental changes can have a meaningful impact on health outcomes, why partnerships across sectors are essential, and how community design influences far more than physical activity alone. Whether you're interested in public health, community development, or simply creating places where people can thrive, this episode offers practical insights into building more accessible and active communities. Learn More Physical Activity Policy, Research, and Evaluation Network (PAPREN) LSU School of Kinesiology LSU AgCenter Selected Publications: Stroope, J., Ballis, L. E., Seals, K., Garn, A. C., Holston, D. (In press). Rural Physical Activity in the Mississippi Delta: the moderating influence of stray dogs. Journal of Healthy Eating & Active Living. Stroope, J., Umstattd Meyer, M.R., Gabbert, K., John, D.H., Orzech, K., Wende, M.E., and Kellstedt, D. (2025). Physical Activity Policy, Systems, and Environment Change through Extension SNAP-Ed: A Multi-State Perspective. Health Promotion Practice. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248399231221779 Stroope, J., Jones, M., Nunes, B., & Holston, D. (2024). Improving Access to the Transportation Alternatives Program for Rural Communities. Journal of Healthy Eating & Active Living. https://doi.org/10.51250/jheal.v4i3.94 Stroope, J., Garn, A., and Cadmus-Bertram, L. (2022). Active transportation and self-reported change in physical activity. Journal of Transport & Health. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jth.2022.101528 Seals, K., Stroope, J., Freightman, J., Moles, A., Ainsworth, L, and Holston, D. (2022). Empty houses, loose dogs, and engaged citizens: Lessons learned from community participatory data collection in rural areas. Health Promotion Practice. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248399221111181 Stroope, J. (2021). Active transportation and social capital: The association between walking or biking for transportation and community participation. Preventive Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2021.106666

Episode Description: In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob is joined by Laurie Whitsel and Tom from the Physical Activity Alliance to discuss making physical activity a standard part of healthcare. Laurie shares insights from the It’s Time to Move campaign, focused on integrating assessment, prescription, and referral into care systems, while Tom highlights the CEO Pledge and how organizations can create movement-friendly workplaces. Together, they explore how healthcare, workplaces, and communities can align to help more people move more often—and what it will take to turn physical activity into a true standard of care. Guest Bio: Laurie Whitsel, Ph.D. is currently the Vice President of Policy Research and Translation for the American Heart Association, helping to translate science into policy at a national level in the areas of cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention and health promotion. LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-whitsel-ph-d-faha-bb4b688/ Tom Richards is the Director of Engagement at the Physical Activity Alliance, where he leads national efforts to build partnerships and advance initiatives that promote physical activity across healthcare, workplaces, and communities. In this role, he supports campaigns like the CEO Pledge for Physical Activity, helping organizations adopt movement-friendly strategies that enhance health and productivity.Tom also serves as Principal of Old Stone Nonprofit Advisory, where he provides strategic planning, partnership development, and growth consulting to mission-driven organizations. Prior to his current roles, he was Director of Stakeholder Engagement at the American Council on Exercise (ACE), where he helped strengthen connections across the health and fitness industry. LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-richards1122/ Resources Discussed Physical Activity Alliance https://paamovewithus.org/ It’s Time to Move Campaign https://paamovewithus.org/its-time-to-move/ CEO Pledge https://paamovewithus.org/about-the-pledge/ Sign The CEO Pledge https://paamovewithus.org/sign-the-pledge/ Physical Activity Fast Facts https://paamovewithus.org/resource/physical-activity-fast-facts/ *Fact Check Correction: The Cost Estimate of Healthcare expenditures is $192 Billion https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/08901171251357128 and https://journals.lww.com/acsm-tj/pages/articleviewer.aspx?year=2025&issue=07180&article=00005&type=Fulltext Physical Activity Alliance https://paamovewithus.org/ It’s Time to Move Campaign https://paamovewithus.org/its-time-to-move/ CEO Pledge https://paamovewithus.org/about-the-pledge/ Sign The CEO Pledge https://paamovewithus.org/sign-the-pledge/ Physical Activity Fast Facts https://paamovewithus.org/resource/physical-activity-fast-facts/ *Fact Check Correction: The Cost Estimate of Healthcare expenditures is $192 Billion https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/08901171251357128 and https://journals.lww.com/acsm-tj/pages/articleviewer.aspx?year=2025&issue=07180&article=00005&type=Fulltext The Elevate Yourself Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Athletic Brewing. Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% OFF your first online order at checkout! https://athleticbrewing.com/

In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob sits down with Hannah Petry, a nutrition researcher at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, to explore how nutrition shapes health from the cellular level to society at large. From early experiences in the kitchen to cutting-edge research on choline and prenatal development, this conversation bridges science and everyday life. Together, they unpack why early life nutrition matters, what’s happening beneath the surface at the cellular level, and how these insights translate into practical habits anyone can apply. If you’ve ever wondered how nutrition impacts long-term health, where we’re getting it right as a society, and where we still have room to improve, this episode offers a thoughtful and grounded perspective on doing the basics well. The Elevate Yourself Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Athletic Brewing. Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% OFF your first online order at checkout!

In this special episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob sits down with Angela Nichols and Micaela Robinson, leaders at Elevation Health, to explore the fitness and wellness trends shaping 2026. Drawing from their work across corporate, residential, and community environments, they share what’s gaining momentum, why foundational practices are resurfacing, and how organizations can create healthier, more connected spaces. From the growing emphasis on recovery to the rising importance of community engagement, this conversation highlights how modern wellness continues to evolve — often by returning to what works. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve in health, fitness, and workplace wellness, this episode offers valuable insight into where the industry is headed next.

In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob welcomes back Serj Khajadourian for a conversation on why so many “new” fitness trends look a lot like the fundamentals we’ve known all along. From protein and real food to strength training, grip strength, and Zone 2 cardio, Serj breaks down why the basics continue to stand the test of time — and why they’re resurfacing as the foundation of effective health and fitness. With decades of experience coaching and leading in the fitness industry, Serj shares why keeping things simple works, how consistency outperforms complexity, and what he’s learned from training thousands of individuals over the years. He also discusses the key traits that separate people who stick with change from those who struggle to maintain it. As the new year approaches, Serj offers grounded advice for anyone looking to start fresh — what to focus on, what to ignore, and how to build habits that actually last. He also shares insights into his new role at Elevation and what excites him most about the year ahead. This episode is a reminder that progress doesn’t require perfection — just consistency, clarity, and a commitment to the fundamentals. Topics Covered Serj’s Background & Current Role at Elevation A quick refresher on Serj’s career and what he’s focused on today. Why “Everything Old Is New Again” Protein, real food, strength training, grip strength, and Zone 2 cardio — why the basics continue to dominate long-term results. The Power of Simplicity Why an “old school” approach works and how overcomplicating fitness often leads people off track. Behavior Change & Consistency Key differences between people who sustain habits and those who struggle to maintain them. Advice for the New Year What Serj recommends for anyone starting a new routine — and what to avoid when motivation is high but consistency hasn’t been built yet. What’s Next at Elevation Serj shares what excites him most about his new role and what’s ahead for the organization. Learn More Elevation Health: [Website Link] Previous Elevate Yourself Episodes: [Apple Podcasts] The Elevate Yourself Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Athletic Brewing. Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% OFF your first online order at checkout!

Description In this final episode of the year, Rob Anderson steps back for a solo reflection on the key lessons, themes, and mindset shifts that emerged from conversations with Elevate Yourself guests throughout the past year. Rather than recap episodes, Rob connects the dots across fitness, nutrition, sleep, social connection, wearables, burnout, and sustainable routines — highlighting what actually works in real life and corporate wellness settings. Listeners will hear big-picture themes like why consistency beats intensity, why health is deeply social, how awareness can support (not control) our lives, and why making wellness sustainable — and even fun — is essential. Rob also shares quick-hit takeaways from each guest, followed by his own “One Thing” reflections to close out the year. This episode is equal parts reflection, gratitude, and momentum-setting — designed to help you carry what matters most into the year ahead. Topics Covered Key lessons and patterns across the past year of Elevate Yourself guests Why consistency matters more than motivation or intensity The role of social connection in health, fitness, and well-being Using data, tracking, and wearables without obsession Making wellness sustainable, enjoyable, and realistic Quick-hit lessons from each guest episode Rob’s personal “One Thing” reflections: One thing he changed his thinking about One thing he started doing One thing he stopped doing Habits, purchases, and influences that elevated his year Setting intentions and carrying momentum into the year ahead Learn More Elevation Health: https://elevationcommunityhealth.com/ Previous Elevate Yourself Episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-yourself/id1510803891 The Elevate Yourself Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Athletic Brewing. Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% OFF your first online order at checkout!

Episode #66 — Healthy Holiday Swaps with Elevation's Nicole Fischer!!! Guest Bio Nicole Fischer is a seasoned professional in the health and wellness industry with over two decades of experience, including 18 years at Elevation Health. She has managed multiple fitness centers for more than 14 years and currently serves as a Regional Operations Manager, supporting Elevation’s mission to help people live healthier, more balanced lives. Nicole holds a BS in Nutrition and a robust list of professional certifications, including: ACE Group Fitness Instructor ACE Certified Personal Trainer ACE Certified Health & Wellness Coach ACE Certified Weight Management Specialist ACE Certified Functional Movement Specialist CEAS I: Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist Her leadership and hands-on expertise help bridge fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle coaching into practical strategies that work year-round — and especially during the holidays. Description In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob is joined once again by Nicole Fischer from Elevation Health to talk about Healthy Holiday Swaps — simple, sustainable ways to stay grounded and enjoy the season without losing balance. Nicole shares high-level principles she uses with clients to manage the fast pace of the holidays while maintaining perspective on what truly matters. From food to fitness, she walks through practical swaps that make a real difference — like what to choose at a holiday buffet, strategies for cooking healthier meals for gatherings, and quick exercise routines when time or equipment is limited. As the year winds down, Nicole also gives listeners a “state of the union” on Elevation programming — what’s been exciting in 2025 and what’s ahead for 2026. Whether you’re looking to navigate the holidays with more intention or refresh your approach to health, this episode offers realistic tips and a motivational boost to finish the year strong. Topics Covered Nicole’s Background and Role at Elevation Health A look into Nicole’s two-decade career in wellness, her certifications, and how she helps clients stay active and engaged across Elevation’s programs. Staying Grounded During the Holidays Nicole shares big-picture wellness principles that keep her — and her clients — centered amid the year-end chaos. Healthy Food Swaps Practical, realistic swaps for navigating holiday buffets, parties, and family meals without feeling restricted. Fitness on a Time Crunch Nicole’s best advice for staying consistent when you only have 20 minutes — or no equipment. Elevation Health Updates Nicole previews what’s coming next for Elevation’s health and fitness programs as the organization looks ahead to 2026. Rapid Fire — “One Thing” Nicole shares daily habits and reflections that continue to elevate her life and work. Learn More Elevation Health: [Website Link] Previous Elevate Yourself Episodes: [Link to Previous Shows]

Episode #65 — Fall Back into Wellness, with Dr. David Gaviria, PhD, RD Guest Bio Dr. David Gaviria, PhD, MPH, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian and soon-to-be Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He holds dual undergraduate degrees in Health Science and Psychology from the University of South Florida, a Master of Public Health in Nutrition & Dietetics from UNC Chapel Hill, and a PhD in Nutrition from UNC Chapel Hill. David’s research focuses on burnout in the health professions and military health—areas where supportive systems and prevention strategies are crucial. Outside of academic life, you’ll likely find him working on his cars or traveling (and eating great food) with his wife. Description In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob welcomes Dr. David Gaviria to help us “fall back into wellness” as we ease into a new season and embrace new routines. David shares insights from his work as a dietitian and researcher, offering a fresh perspective on the pillars of a healthy wellness routine and how to build habits that actually stick. A growing expert on burnout, David breaks down what burnout really is, how to identify it, and actionable factors that may help prevent or offset it—especially in the workplace. As fall brings a shift in seasonal foods, David also shares some of his favorite picks from the RD standpoint, along with practical guidance for listeners looking to optimize their well-being this time of year. Whether you’re revamping habits, fighting seasonal stress, or just looking to feel your best this fall, this conversation delivers both encouragement and evidence-based strategies to support your health.

Description: In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob sits down with Diana Lapadula to explore how to find joy while tackling life’s challenges—what she calls “finding fun in the grind.” Diana shares her journey from a 40-year legal career in New York to teaching and mentoring youth in California, and how she stays active and engaged in her community at the Elevation Center in Playa Vista, CA. Diana discusses why she continues to show up for early morning exercise classes, her mindset during a winning Dead Hang competition, and what keeps her motivated in her fitness routine. She also shares her love for pickleball and the social and physical benefits it brings. Listeners will come away with practical tips for staying consistent, making workouts fun, and embracing challenges with a positive attitude. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to stay active or ways to enjoy the process, this episode provides actionable insights to elevate your life and fitness.

Episode Title: Episode #63, Wearables: the Good, Bad, and Ugly, with Don Matutina, MS Don’s Bio: Don Matutina, MS, is a research scientist and health professional with a multifaceted background in dietetics, exercise physiology, and culinary arts. He earned his BS in Dietetics and MS in Nutrition from the University of Kentucky and holds a culinary arts certificate (Certified Culinarian). Don is a Level 1 Sommelier with advanced training and has served as a research coordinator on multiple clinical trials, specializing in exercise physiology and wearable technology. His expertise bridges science, nutrition, and practical lifestyle interventions, providing unique insight into the applications and pitfalls of modern wearable devices. Description: In this episode of the Elevate Yourself podcast, Rob sits down with Don Matutina, MS, to explore the rapidly evolving world of wearable technology. Don breaks down the “good, bad, and ugly” of wearables, helping listeners understand what these devices can really measure, their limitations, and the potential unintended consequences of tracking every step, heart beat, and calorie burned. Listeners will learn the differences between consumer wearables and research-grade devices, insights from clinical trials Don has coordinated, and the ways wearables can enhance—or sometimes complicate—our health and fitness journeys. Don also shares his perspective on privacy, AI, and emerging technology concerns in the wearable space, offering practical guidance for anyone looking to integrate these tools into their daily routine. Topics Covered: Don’s Background and Expertise Learn about Don’s journey from dietetics and culinary arts to exercise physiology and clinical research, including his work as a research coordinator on multiple trials and his unique blend of science, nutrition, and lifestyle experience. Understanding Wearables Don defines what constitutes a wearable device, explains how most people use them, and contrasts consumer wearables with research-grade devices. Clinical Trials and Insights Explore Don’s experience using wearables in research studies, including which devices were used, what metrics were tracked, and the key findings that emerged. The Good, Bad, and Ugly of Wearables Learn about the benefits of wearables, potential unintended consequences, and challenges related to accuracy, privacy, and AI integration. Rapid Fire – “One Thing” Don shares practical and personal insights on what elevates his science and life, from daily habits to recent accomplishments. Learn More: Don Matutina research article on exercise Athletic Brewing: athleticbrewing.com – Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% off your first online order.

Episode Title: Social Connectedness & Health, with Dr. Cassidy Leibold, PhD!!! Cassidy’s Bio: Is a graduate of the University of Dayton (2020) and University of Kentucky, with an MS and PhD in Experimental Psychology. Specifically, she studies Behavioral Neuroscience and Pharmacology. Her research focuses on the excitotoxic effects of alcohol on the hippocampus, and how prolonged alcohol exposure impairs neurogenesis and overall cell survival in this brain structure. She is now a lecturer in the Psychology department at the University of Kentucky, and loves getting to work with aspiring researchers and clinicians. Description: In this episode, Rob welcomes back Dr. Cassidy Leibold, PhD, a lecturer in the Psychology Department at the University of Kentucky. Cassidy shares the exciting developments since her last visit, including her new role teaching aspiring researchers and clinicians. She also reflects on her journey through her PhD, where she studied the effects of chronic binge alcohol use on neurogenesis in the hippocampus—a key brain region involved in memory formation. Cassidy discusses the importance of social connectedness and how our relationships play a significant role in our health. She explores the evolutionary significance of group membership, the brain's response to social pain, and how social media can both connect and amplify relationships. She also explains the delicate balance between the number and quality of social connections, highlighting why quality tends to matter more as we age. Cassidy wraps up the conversation with her personal insights on how she’s grown since her PhD, including changes in how she views success, the impact of joining groups that support her, and the importance of personal well-being. Topics Covered: Cassidy’s Journey and New Role at the University of Kentucky Cassidy shares her experiences during and after her PhD, discussing the challenges of conducting empirical research and the lessons she’s learned along the way. What We Know About Social Connectedness Explore how social connectedness has shaped human survival and how it continues to impact our health today. Cassidy dives into the evolutionary psychology behind group membership and why being part of a group is so deeply ingrained in our brains. Quality vs. Quantity in Social Relationships Cassidy talks about the importance of both the number and quality of connections, explaining why the quality of relationships becomes more important with age and how our closest relationships influence our behaviors and beliefs. The Elevate Yourself Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Athletic Brewing. Use code ELEVATE30 for 30% OFF your first online order at checkout!