Nature Unplugged Podcast

Here at Nature Unplugged, we are hugely passionate about the importance of mental health. That's a big reason why we do what we do. While our focus is more on the preventative (upstream) side of things we know how important it is to be prepared and to know what to do in a mental health crises. Our guests today are from the San Diego Suicide Prevention Council. Yeni Palomino and Lora Cayanan are here to share about the importance of suicide prevention, provide some tips and tools for how to be prepared in a mental health crisis, and more about the amazing work they do. SHOW NOTES: - Community Health Improvement Partners: https://www.sdchip.org/ - Suicide Prevention Council: https://www.sdchip.org/initiatives/suicide-prevention-council/ - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255 - San Diego Access and Crisis Line: 888-724-7240 BIOS: Yeni Palomino Yeni Linqui Palomino is Vice President of Community Health and Engagement at Community Health Improvement Partners (CHIP). Palomino has extensive work experience dating back to 2003 in addressing the issues of environmental justice and public health in underrepresented and underserved populations in San Diego. In a previous work capacity, Palomino served as a Bilingual Program Coordinator and Organizer of the Healthy Homes Project in National City. Upon assuming her role at CHIP in 2010, Palomino embarked on a 2-year program development journey to inspire sustainable, grassroots leadership on public health issues which led to the creation of the CHIP / Resident Leadership Academy program – a curriculum-based, public health leadership and advocacy program that provides residents from underserved communities with the tools and skills necessary to become lifelong health advocates addressing issues such as public safety, healthy food access and the quality of physical activity opportunities. Palomino has worked on issues relating to behavioral health since 2014, and currently serves as lead facilitator of San Diego County's Suicide Prevention Council, which focuses on implementation of its 2018 published Action Plan based on the Institute of Medicine's Environmental Prevention Model --- a health equity framework. Lora Cayanan, MPH Lora Cayanan is the Program Manager for Community Health Improvement Partners (CHIP) and the San Diego County Suicide Prevention Council (SPC). Lora has spent the past 6 years working at CHIP previously serving as a Program Coordinator, Program Assistant and Intern. She became a Certified Question Persuade and Refer or QPR Trainer in 2015 and oversees the training program for San Diego County with over 22,000 individuals trained since 2011. She is also an Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training or ASIST instructor. Lora received her Bachelors in Biological Sciences from UC Irvine and her Master's of Public Health from National University. CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Do you know where your food comes from? It's an important question and one that's becoming increasingly difficult to answer. Now, you don't have to be a maniac in the grocery store scrutinizing every label and ingredient, but it is important to be curious about what goes into your body. That's one of the reasons why we're huge proponents of gardening and farming—it's a direct connection to your food source. Today, we have the opportunity to speak with Javier Guerrero, President and CEO of Coastal Roots Farm. Coastal Roots Farm does incredible work focusing on Regenerative Agriculture, Equitable Access to Food, Environmental Education, and Jewish Life, welcoming people of all backgrounds. SHOW NOTES: BIO: Javier Guerrero is the Farm's President and CEO. Javier works with Coastal Roots Farm staff, board members, funders, partners, and volunteers to advance the Farm's impact initiatives of Regenerative Agriculture, Equitable Access to Food and Environmental Education, and Jewish Life, welcoming people of all backgrounds. Javier has worked in the San Diego nonprofit sector for over 20 years and brings extensive experience in nonprofit administration, organizational management, and resource development. Prior to joining the Farm over three years ago, Javier served eight years as Executive Director of San Diego Children's Discovery Museum in Escondido, overseeing the Museum's capital campaign, move to a new indoor/outdoor location, and expansion of exhibits and programming. Javier currently serves on the Board of North County Philanthropy Council and Carlsbad Education Foundation. Javier was the recipient of the 2021 Fran Aleshire Leadership Award from CSUSM Leadership North County. - Coastal Roots Farm: https://coastalrootsfarm.org/ - More About Javier: https://www.linkedin.com/in/javierguerrerosd/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

We're very excited to have the musician, surfer, and nature enthusiast, Matt Lamkin, on the podcast. Matt has just released his latest album, Dirty Job, the second of his solo career. In addition to talking about his new album we're going to explore the role nature plays in his creative process and how both nature and music can play a positive role in our mental health. SHOW NOTES: Matt Lamkin Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/39w5Sb2ixdewzZAX6MJ6Jw Matt Lamkin BandCamp: https://mattlamkin.bandcamp.com/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

We are so excited to be teaming up with an awesome nonprofit, 2B-Rad, for a great cause this October. Our month-long Hike-A-Thon (called the ENU Challenge: Hike 2B-RAD) has a dual purpose: to help you experience nature unplugged and help others participate in outdoor adventures. It's a win win! Raised funds from this year's event will benefit individuals and families who are experiencing a financial or emotional hardship by providing scholarships to participate in a variety of outdoor programs. The timing and the spirit of this event is in honor of Brad Humphrey, a committed husband, father, son, brother and friend who passed away from a rare complication of Leukemia in 2018. Brad loved his community as much as he loved the great outdoors. He believed in the healing power of human connection and being active in nature—and so do we. Today we are thrilled to have the opportunity to speak with Zac Humphrey, president of 2B-Rad and son of the late, great, Brad Humphrey. Zac's joining us to share more about who Brad was and how 2B-Rad came into fruition. SHOW NOTES: BIO:  Zac Humphrey is a 22 year old student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo going into his final year of college. Nature has always been an incredibly important part of his life, largely due to the influence of his late father, Brad Humphrey. Whether it be camping, hiking, going to the beach, traveling, or anything in between, being outside has always been a passion of his. Zac's other interests include playing and watching soccer, watching movies and tv, and spending time with family and friends. When his father passed away in 2018 his family was at a loss. It was reconnecting with nature with his strong unit of family and friends that allowed them to come through it. Creating the non-profit, 2B-Rad, and partnering with Nature Unplugged was an incredible chance for them to give back to the community and honor his dad's legacy. - About the Event: https://charity.pledgeit.org/enu-challenge-hike-2b-rad - About 2B-RAD: https://www.2b-rad.org CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

One of the most important aspects of living well in the digital age is to develop a spirit of play. We're not talking about video games or digital games, we're talking about unplugged play and moving our bodies. Our guest today, Stephen Jepson, is a world renowned expert on health, wellness and play. SHOW NOTES: BIO: Stephen Michael Jepson was born May 31, 1941 in Sioux City, Iowa. After receiving his MFA from Alfred University in 1971, he went on to open his studio in Geneva, Florida, and began the ceramics department at the University of Central Florida, where he taught for eight years. While Jepson continues to teach pottery, he is now retired and has dedicated himself to health, wellness, and athletic inventions. His life changing program, ‘Never Leave the Playground' has improved the lives of people all over the world. - https://neverleavetheplayground.com - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Jepson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eICg4CMd2jU CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

What's your stance on social media? Do you love it? Hate it? Or, are you somewhere in between? For most of us, our relationship with social media is complicated. We recently read Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now by Jaron Lanier. We found this book to be informative and inspiring and we're excited to share our thoughts and takeaways. SHOW NOTES: http://www.jaronlanier.com/general.html CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Living in the digital age can be stressful. With nonstop information, to-do lists, news cycles, notifications, accessibility...it can easily feel overwhelming. What happens when you get stressed? Do you go into a survival mode (fight or flight) response? Or, do you have a different way to respond? Of course, how we deal with stress plays a huge role in our health and wellbeing. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Mark Kalina to dive into the science behind the central nervous system. We look at what happens when we get stressed from the inside out. And, more importantly, we explore what we can do to bring more calm and clarity into our lives. SHOW NOTES: BIO: Dr. Kalina is an Internal Medicine Physician and a specialist in holistic, primary care. He has enjoyed a 30-year career in San Diego since finishing his residency at UCSD in 1992. Specializing in the physician-patient relationship, he enjoys knowing and caring for the whole person. He was a primary care doctor for 17 years at Scripps, an integrative palliative care specialist at the San Diego Cancer Center in San Diego from 2008-2010, and most recently worked at Pacific Pearl in La Jolla as part of an integrative team of doctors specializing in reversing cardiovascular disease and integrative medicine. His special projects include holding positions as Medical Director and Group Support Leader of the Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease in the 1990s, Medical Director for Scripps Clinic Wellness and Prevention Programs, and Physician Leader to Medical Missions to Fiji in 2010 and 2012 When not in the office, Dr. Kalina enjoys the ocean, San Diego beauty, outdoor life, providing support in end-of-life care through Hospice by the Sea in Solana Beach, and the new movement in Assisted Dying. Understanding the stress response: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-the-stress-response Short video on the Nervous System: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71pCilo8k4M CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Have you had your mind blown recently? Perhaps you had an opportunity to visit a place of epic natural beauty like the Grand Canyon or Yosemite. Or, maybe you spent some time looking up at the stars on a clear night. There is a word to describe this complex and mysterious feeling, awe. In this episode, we are going to dive into what awe is and the growing body of research around why it can make you happier, healthier, and more connected to others. SHOW NOTES: The Science of Awe: https://ggsc.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/GGSC-JTF_White_Paper-Awe_FINAL.pdf Eight reasons why awe makes your life better: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/eight_reasons_why_awe_makes_your_life_better Cape Cod diver left with a whale of a tale after a humpback spat him out: https://www.cnn.com/2021/06/11/us/cape-cod-diver-eaten-by-whale/index.html Check out our website: https://www.natureunplugged.com/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Here at Nature Unplugged, we are all about wellness in the digital age. And, we look at the work we do as preventative (upstream) mental health work - getting outside, healthy boundaries with tech, exercising, etc. Our guest today has dedicated his life to helping people with addiction recovery and mental health issues. We have the privilege of speaking with Dave Marlon. Dave is here to share his story about addiction, recovery, and what we can do to improve our mental health whether we're dealing with addiction or not. SHOW NOTES: BIO: David Marlon is the co-founder and chairman of Vegas Stronger, a Las Vegas non-profit committed to helping the most under-served in our community by addressing mental health, substance use disorders, and getting back to a healthy productive life. The Vegas Stronger team joined CrossRoads in January of 2020 to help address the mismanagement of the company and bring back the operation from near bankruptcy. David is also CEO of a consulting company, the Marlon Professional Corporation and works with several behavioral treatment centers, helping them build their substance abuse programs. David was formerly the President and co-founder of Solutions Recovery, Inc., a Joint Commission accredited alcohol and drug treatment center. Since 2005, he has delivered treatment to hundreds of people struggling with chemical dependency and mental illness. Prior to forming Solutions Recovery, David worked in the insurance industry. He has more than 30 years of experience serving as Chief Operating Officer, President, and Vice President of various Sierra Health Services subsidiaries. In the community, David has always been an active participant. Over the years, he has formed several non-profit organizations, including the Care Coalition, a Drug-Free Communities Act non-profit, with the goal of combating substance abuse by providing education and awareness on addictive behavior, preventative methods, and the economic, physical, and social consequences of substance abuse. He serves on the Governor's Substance Abuse Working Group, the Governor's Rural Meth Action Team, the Board of Directors for H.E.L.P. of Southern Nevada, the Board of Directors for the 10,000 Kids Foundation, The Las Vegas Rescue Mission, the Nevada Donor Network as well as the President of (SNAAP) State of Nevada Association for Addiction Professionals. He has been honored with the Mayor's Commendation and just recently received the Community Counseling Center of Southern Nevada's Vanguard Award. David received his education in New York and Las Vegas. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics at the State University of New York and his Masters of Business Administration and Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Furthermore, he is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Supervisor, a Certified Addictionologist, and a Detoxification Technician. David is also currently pursuing his Doctorate in Psychology. David is an active Nevada Amateur boxer, an avid mountain climber, and a triathlete. Despite an active life, his primary role is as the father to teenagers Owen and Tristan and husband to Carolina. - https://crossroadsofsonv.com/project/dave-marlon-ceo/ - https://vegasstronger.org/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

A big part of wellness in the digital age is using technology with intention. While we talk a lot about the importance of boundaries with our screens and devices, it's also important to get in touch with what aspects of technology we love and appreciate. As a reminder, we're not anti-tech! In this episode, we're going to talk about some of our very favorite types of tech and how technology can actually serve and inspire us in our mission of wellness in the digital age. SHOW NOTES: NU News: Sloth's secret to their survival: https://www.npr.org/2021/02/05/964197108/lucy-cooke-how-did-slowness-become-the-sloths-secret-to-survival NU Spotlight: California Poppy: https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/eschscholzia_californica.shtml CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

“What would our lives be like if our days and nights were as immersed in nature as they are in technology?” - Richard Louv. This is one of our favorite quotes by one of our favorite authors. And, it's a great question to ponder as we get ready for summer. In this episode we explore some of our favorite tips on how to have a fun, engaging, balanced, and nature filled summer. In short, it's all about ways to experience nature unplugged this summer. SHOW NOTES: NU News: Piano man playing for rescued elephants: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/man-plays-piano-blind-elephants-at-sanctuary-in-thailand/ NU Spotlight: Anna's hummingbird: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Annas_Hummingbird/overview CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

We're living in an incredible age, with access to technology that makes our lives more convenient and comfortable. However, the countless benefits come with a cost. When things are overly comfortable and convenient it can make it very hard to be intentional. It's easy to find ourselves on auto pilot and just going through the motions. Happiness and fulfillment happen when we are intentional about how we live, how we eat, how we move, how we engage with nature, how we connect with others, and how we use our devices. There's a cost to comfort, and that's what we're going to talk about today. SHOW NOTES: - The Comfort Crisis: https://amzn.to/2SCVGvq - Grandma Gatewood: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/27/obituaries/grandma-emma-gatewood-overlooked.html CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

What comes to mind when you hear the word nature? Do you envision mountains and forests and other wild, remote, and untouched wilderness? Or, do you think about suburban parks or gardens? Or, perhaps something totally different. In this episode we look at reframing our definition (and mindset) around what nature is. SHOW NOTES: ENU Wellness Membership & Program: https://www.natureunplugged.com/enu-membership Chanell Stone Nature Photography NPR: https://www.npr.org/sections/pictureshow/2021/02/27/970992758/housing-projects-and-empty-lots-how-chanell-stone-is-reframing-nature-photograph NU News: Florida Woman Survives being hit by flying Turtle: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/flying-turtle-hits-florida-woman_n_608194c0e4b0e7cb020bfbcf CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

This episode is dedicated to all the mom's out there. With Mother's Day right around the corner (on Sunday, May 9th) we want to highlight motherhood in the digital age...the good, the bad, and the ugly. We speak with our good friend and all star mom, Liz Bandy. Liz shares some of her experience raising two little ones, working remotely full time and being a wife/partner in the digital age including some of her challenges and successes. SHOW NOTES: ENU Wellness Program: https://www.natureunplugged.com/enu-wellness-program CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Earth Day...it's almost here! With Earth Day coming up on April 22nd, this is the perfect time to explore how we can enjoy Mother Earth and do it in a caring and sustainable way. One of the best ways to do this is by following the Leave No Trace principles which we'll dive into in this episode. SHOW NOTES: Earth Day: https://www.earthday.org/ Leave No Trace: https://lnt.org/ NU News: FaceTime for Chimps in the Czech Republic: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2021/03/16/czech-zoo-arranges-video-playdates-chimps/4713831001/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Do you want to get out and experience nature more often but aren't sure where to go? Or, are you looking to mix up your nature adventures? This episode is all about how to get more green time (nature time) into your life...and by default less screen time. We start off by talking about the benefits of nature (it's always good to remind ourselves of the benefits). We're also going to share some of our favorite tips and resources to help you enjoy the outdoors more often and with greater ease. This episode is all about helping you access nature more frequently and with more variety. SHOW NOTES: AllTrails: Find your next favorite trail: https://www.alltrails.com/ Afoot and Afield: San Diego County: https://amzn.to/3dFtfE2 NU News: Octopus Attack Australia: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/octopus-attack-australia-man/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

In this episode we have the chance to speak with our very own Luke Humphrey. Luke is new to the Nature Unplugged team currently working as a guide in training. We're going to explore the iGen experience and hear about his perspective on wellness in the digital age. We will also dive into his journey of working through being overwhelmed with the tech in his life and coming to a place of more balance and intentionality.

Are you looking for some practical tools and resources for staying balanced in our noisy digital world? Our philosophy and contract for wellness in the digital age are designed to do exactly that. And, they are now available to you for free on our website. These are great tools to help keep ourselves accountable and in balance. In this episode we're going to take a look at our philosophy and contract. Stay tuned to hear how to get access to these awesome resources!

It's almost here! In this episode we're excited to talk about the launch of our latest book, Experience Nature Unplugged: A Guide to Wellness in the Digital Age. We're going to give an overview of the book and share about the ENU (Experience Nature Unplugged) Method. Experience Nature Unplugged comes out in paperback on Amazon.com and wherever books are sold on Monday, March 1st 2021.

In this episode we explore new ways to get more green time in your daily life. Hear about our gardening successes and failures, tips to move your indoor activities outside and how to bring more nature into your home. We also have a guest interview with our good friend and gardening guru, Kiyonna Navarro, who gives us insight into her home-gardening and community gardens in San Diego.

In this episode we have the pleasure of speaking with Michelle Abbey, a certified forest therapy guide and nutritionist whose work is deeply inspired by nature. We explore the practice of forest therapy (also called forest bathing) and many of the positive physical, emotional, and psychological health benefits that come from deep connection with nature.

In this episode we have the opportunity to speak with award winning journalist and author Richard Louv about his newest book Our Wild Calling: How Connecting with Animals Can Transform Our Lives — and Save Theirs. Louv is the author of ten books, including Last Child in the Woods; The Nature Principle; and Vitamin N. Translated into 22 languages, his books have helped launch an international movement to connect children, their families and communities to nature.

We often talk about tips, tricks, and different ways to create a healthy relationship with technology and reconnect to nature, like turning off notifications, getting your phone out of your bedroom, and scheduling unplugged time. While these practices are critical for wellness in the digital age, there is also a lot we can do in terms of our inner work. We've created this three part series to take a closer look at what's going on beneath the surface. The three main categories of inner work are mindfulness, mindset, and inner alignment. In this episode, we'll explore how mindfulness and intentionality can protect us from the pull of the attention economy.

The Social Dilemma is a recently released documentary on Netflix which explores the dangerous human impact of social networking. Have you seen it? If not, it's a must-see. If you have seen it, has it changed your relationship with social media? This movie is so up our alley that we felt compelled to share our take on the film.

What boundaries do you have with the technology in your life? With summer coming to an end and school back in session (some in person, some virtual), it's a great time to reexamine our tech boundaries. In this episode we're going to dive into what boundaries are and how to help put them in place as we transition into a new season

At Nature Unplugged we're all about wellness in the digital age. And, a big part of wellness is movement. We know that with the rise of screen time and tech use often comes more sitting and a more sedentary lifestyle. Movement is key and running is one of the most simple and accessible ways to get wonderful movement. But here's the thing about running, on the upside it's a great way to get exercise with minimal gear and hassle required. On the down side, it totally sucks. At least that's how I used to feel about it. So, how do you feel about running? Do you love it, hate it, or somewhere in between? In this episode we have the opportunity to speak with Lisa Jhung, author of her latest book ‘Running That Doesn't Suck'. We explore Lisa's favorite tips and practices for changing your relationship with running (even if you think you hate it). SHOW NOTES: Bio: Writer, editor and author Lisa Jhung has written two books on running: Trailhead, the Dirt on All Things Trail Running (VeloPress, 2015), and her most recent, Running That Doesn't Suck: How to Love Running (Even if You Think You Hate It) (Running Press, 2019). She's been writing about running and other outdoor, adventure, and endurance sports for almost 20 years. She's been an editor at Trail Runner Magazine, a contributing editor to Runner's World, a special projects editor to Backpacker and now manages the trail running content for PodiumRunner and Women's Running. She also regularly contributes to Outside Magazine and others. She's based in Boulder, Colorado, where she runs mountain trails, but fell in love with running (for real) on the beaches of Del Mar, CA, where she grew up, and Santa Barbara, where she went to college. - Lisa's Website: http://www.lisajhung.com - https://www.velopress.com/books/trailhead/ - https://www.runningpress.com/titles/lisa-jhung/running-that-doesnt-suck/9780762466726/ - https://www.podiumrunner.com/collection/trail-running/ - https://www.womensrunning.com/collection/trail-running/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Summer is here! It's an amazing time to get out and mix it up in nature. It's also key to be safe while having fun in the sun. The question is, what's your go to sunscreen and what's in it? In this episode we have the opportunity to speak with Maxine Chapman, Co-Founder of SurfDurt reef safe sunscreen. We explore how to stay safe and protected while enjoying the great outdoors. We also examine what a big difference mineral based sunscreen can make on the environment and on our own health. SHOW NOTES: - SurfDurt Website: https://www.surfdurt.com/ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

How has nature inspired your path in life? In this episode we have the opportunity to speak with author James Thompson. He is the author of Create Your Own Path, and he currently lives and works around Algonquin Park in Ontario, Canada. Thompson's path has been deeply inspired by his time exploring the great outdoors. He believes in the transformative power of nature for clarifying your purpose and bringing you peace about the future. BIO: James Thompson is the author of Create Your Own Path, and he currently lives and works around Algonquin Park in Ontario. He believes in the transformative power of nature for clarifying your purpose and bringing you peace about the future. You can check out his book here: https://amzn.to/2Ndf8sL CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Do you find yourself spending more time on news and social media among the pandemic and all the uncertainty? If so, you may be doomscrolling. And, you're not alone. It turns out that many of us are spending much more time on social media and news platforms. In this episode we explore doomscrolling, what it is, why it's so hard to look away, and what we can do about it. SHOW NOTES: - ENU Scavenger Hunt: https://etsy.me/3fyLsTo - ENU Adventures (Summer Program): https://www.natureunplugged.com/enu-adventures - Doomscrolling: Why We Just Can't Look Away by Nicole Nguyen: https://www.wsj.com/articles/doomscrolling-why-we-just-cant-look-away-11591522200?mod=hp_lista_pos3 CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

As humans we crave security and a sense of control. And, we're living in a time full of uncertainty and fear. There is uncertainty about the state of our country and the world, the economy, political situation, race relations, and of course our health and wellbeing in the midst of this pandemic. How do we live well while we're in times of uncertainty, stress, and fear? In this episode we have the opportunity to speak with Integrative health and wellness expert Mark Kalina, M.D. to get his take on the subject. BIO: Dr. Mark Kalina did his training in Internal Medicine at UCSD during the AIDS era (before real treatment was available) while also ravenously studying and actively incorporating psychology, spirituality and integrative medicine in all its forms and fashions over the past 30 years, he has a burning passion to help bring a new consciousness to medicine, primary care, health and healing. He currently work at Pacific Pearl in La Jolla where they are revolutionizing primary and secondary health care by means of an integrative team approach. His other projects of passion include group-based interventions for chronic illness care and reversal and improving the end-of-life experience. Dr. Kalina's vision is and has been for 3 decades to change the paradigm of medicine to one based in love, oneness and internal power. CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

What are your thoughts on remote living? Are you enjoying this newfound freedom and flexibility (no commute, zooming with pajama bottoms on) with working and schooling from home? Or, has it been a struggle (do you feel zoomed out)? These times are wild and together (but also very separately) we're all exploring a new virtual frontier. In this episode we explore the pros and cons of living remotely and what to do to ease the challenges that come with it. CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Looking for more adventure in your life? In today's episode we have the pleasure of speaking with outdoor guide and enthusiast Kelly Sloan. Kelly works at The University of San Diego as Program Coordinator for the Outdoor Adventures Department. She also teaches Wilderness First Aid and leads backpacking expeditions for NOLS in addition to volunteering on the San Diego Mountain Rescue Team. Kelly will be sharing some of her insights from working in the outdoor industry and her favorite tips around experiencing the benefits of nature. CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Feeling lost? Maybe it's time to reconnect with yourself. Welcome to the final segment of our three part series on ‘Lost Connections during COVID-19'. In this series we explored: connection with each other, connection with nature, and connection with self. In today's episode, we're going to explore connection with ourselves, how this has been impacted by the crisis, and what we can do to reconnect. SHOW NOTES: -Nature Unplugged Guided Mindful Breathing Practice: https://vimeo.com/183721478/70a117ae17 -NAMI: https://bit.ly/3bkmuEJ CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Nature...nice to look at and a fantastic multivitamin. Nature can help boost our immune system and protect us from all sorts of disease. Welcome to part two of our three part series on ‘Lost Connections during COVID-19'. In today's episode we're going to look at how our connection with nature is being impacted by the crisis and more importantly what we can do about it. SHOW NOTES: -The Best Way to Help Your Immune System: https://lifeology.us.lifeomic.com/static/ologies/healthcare/strengthen-immune-system/index.html#/ -Nature Research: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/09/150916162120.htm CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

How has living with COVID-19 impacted your connections with friends, family, and loved ones? Welcome to part one of our three part series on ‘Lost Connections during COVID-19'. We're living in challenging times and one of the things that is most impacted by this crisis, is the quality of our connections. In this three part series we're going to be exploring: connection with each other, connection with nature (the world around us), and connection with self. In today's episode, we're going to look at how our interpersonal connections are being impacted by the crisis and more importantly what we can do about it.

This episode is all about how to stay healthy and balanced during a pandemic. We explore some of our favorite tips for how to build structure into your day during a time of uncertainty. We also look at ways of staying balanced with our tech use and screen time knowing we're much more dependent on tech and screens than ever before. Additionally, we have an exciting announcement - we've launched our first online program, ‘Wellness in the Digital Age: Intro Course.'

What can we learn from the Amish way of life? More than you may think. In this episode we explore the practice of Engaged Living and why it is more important now than ever. Also, Sonya is back in the mix as co-host and we look at some upcoming events and adventures in store for Nature Unplugged…including our retreat to Peru in May!

In this episode we speak with Monica Stapleton about her work as a Marriage and Family Therapist and in creating support groups for parents. We explore the importance of building community and the importance of practicing ‘Trustful Living' in the digital age.

In this episode we speak with the co-founders of Gr8ful Connections, Heather Dugdale and Stephanie Kowack. We explore the power of gratitude, the importance of being connected with your local community, and about the wonderful work they are doing with their organization.

In this episode we speak with Julie Chambers, founder of Rios Music Project. We know that music improves brain health and function in many ways and that it's just plain good for us. We're going to talk about the work she does and explore the benefits of creativity and music for individuals and families in the digital age.

In this episode we speak with Jontue Koff founder of At Play Occupational Therapy Services. We explore the power of movement and play and why it's so important for you and your family.

In this episode we speak with Dr. Lorri Sulpizio. Dr. Sulpizio is Director of the Conscious Leadership Academy at the University of San Diego. We explore leadership and how to be a more effective team (or family) in the digital age. Dr. Sulpizio is a certified leadership coach and a certified practitioner in the Leadership Circle Profile, the Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator, DiSC, Firo-B, and is certified Dare to Lead Facilitator based on the research and work of Brene Brown. Dr. Sulpizio has taught both graduate and undergraduate level courses in leadership, including Gender and Leadership, Women and Leadership, Integral Leadership, and Contemporary Issues in Leadership. She has worked with a variety of companies and has done presentations and consulting projects for Qualcomm, Rady's Children's Hospital, Torrey Pines Bank, SDSU, UCSD, and several San Diego Schools. She has published chapters and articles on leadership topics in textbooks, journals, and popular press publications.

In this episode we speak with Dr. Larry Rosen. Dr. Rosen is a research psychologist with specialties in multitasking, social networking, generational differences, parenting, child and adolescent development, and neuropsychology, and is recognized as an international expert in the "Psychology of Technology." Over the past 30-plus years, Dr. Rosen and his colleagues have examined reactions to technology among more than 100,000 people in the United States and in 22 other countries. His latest book, “The Distracted Mind: Ancient Brains in a High-Tech World” (MIT Press, 2016), won the PROSE Award for neuroscience in 2016. Dr. Rosen has been featured extensively in television, print, and radio media and has been a commentator on 60 Minutes, The Daily Show, Good Morning America, NPR, and CNN His website is DrLarryRosen.com.

In this episode we speak with Linda Vazin about the power of our breath. Linda has been working with alternative healing modalities for the past 35 years. We explore a variety of breath practices and why breath work is so important (especially in this digital age which is often fast-paced and full of distraction). SHOW NOTES: Linda Vazin has been working with alternative healing modalities for the past 35 years. She's had a studio in La Jolla CA for the past 19 years. Linda has her MA in Exercise Physiology and she's been practicing deep tissue facial release massage since 1985. Later she began integrating yoga therapy, pilates, and life coaching to her practice. For the last 6 years she's been working with people doing transformational breath. For more information check out: https://www.breathbodyconnection.com. CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Is over connection to technology and disconnection from nature a technical problem, an adaptive challenge, or both? In this episode we explore our relationship with technology and nature from an adaptive leadership perspective. SHOW NOTES: Short Video: Ronald Heifetz on technical vs adaptive challenges: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MYafOEtvLnI Video: TED Talk: Marty Linsky on Adaptive Leadership - Leading Change: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=af-cSvnEExM CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

In this episode we explore FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) and how embracing the idea of missing out or JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out) can be a wonderful shift in perspective. SHOW NOTES: Short Video: BBC: Why You Should Embrace the Joy of Missing Out: https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p07qchmm/why-you-should-embrace-the-joy-of-missing-out Article: What Does FOMO Mean and How Do I Deal With It?: https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-cope-with-fomo-4174664 Video: TED Talk on FOMO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mZAQC9djPE CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

In this episode we speak with Alexa Mendes about her recent book #Unsubscribed: How I am thriving in high school without social media (and you can, too). Alexa is a 16-year-old high school junior. Her ​is available on Amazon. For more information check out her website, www.unsubscribedbook.weebly.com. You can also contact her at unsubscribedbook@gmail.com. CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

In this episode we share some highlights from our recent road trip and tips for taking an awesome adventure...on a budget. SHOW NOTES: Free Campsites: https://freecampsites.net/ BLM Camping: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/camping CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

What's the right dose of nature? In this episode we explore how much nature time is enough to get the benefits. Is it better to have lots of little nature experiences or fewer longer nature experiences? Or, both?

In this episode we talk with artist, musician, and all around amazing dude, Matt Lamkin, and explore the role nature and wellness plays in his creativity process. SHOW NOTES: Matt Lamkin on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/39w5Sb2ixdewzZAX6MJ6Jw CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico

Many parents share that they feel overwhelmed when it comes to helping their children have healthy relationships with the technology surrounding them. In this episode we explore this topic and share some helpful advice we've come across recently. SHOW NOTES: Parenting in the digital age is a new frontier that we're all learning to navigate. And we're in this together, right? Well, we think so and are eager to share some helpful advice we've come across recently: Create house rules that work for you and your family. Make them explicit, write them down, and have a way to reference back to them when needed. For specific ideas, and different approaches, check out this article: What The Screen Time Experts Do With Their Own Kids Shift from monitoring to mentoring. Move beyond time restrictions and parental controls for screen time and work to understand the media your kids engage with and how it informs their identity. Read how one family worked together to make small, but meaningful changes: At Your Wits' End With A Screen-Obsessed Kid? Read This Don't underestimate the importance of role modeling and examine your own screen time use. How you interact and engage with media (that includes email and computer work) creates a foundation for your kids behavior. Explore this from a child development perspective and consider some changes you can make for yourself! The Dangers of Distracted Parenting Weekly Challenge! Have an unplugged meal this week: eat at least one meal with your family (or friends, or by yourself!) without any technology or media distractions. This means no television, phone, computer, tablets, etc. Already do this? Consider adding in a mindful eating exercise! Click here for a mindful eating guide. CREDITS: Intro and Outro Song: The Soft Pack - Mexico