We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

The 2025 Annual Wellness Summit was held in August in beautiful Austin, Texas.

Attendees heard from industry leaders about strategies, latest trends, and best practices to advance health and wellness for themselves, their workplaces, and communities, and those they serve.

Mark had another opportunity to gather with hundreds of wellness professionals and sat down with multiple speakers, leaders, and change-makers who made the Annual Wellness Summit successful.

He provided a keynote and led a nature walk for around 60 attendees, and was blown away by the continued excitement about bringing nature into mainstream wellness programming.

Join us in the first part of this incredible compilation as we speak with global speaker and author Laura Putnam, physician/epidemiologist/journalist Amitha Kalaichandran, MD, Baylor College of Medicine Well-Being Director Jesse Gavin, Huntington Health Clinical Wellness Program Director Mitch Martens, International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) CEO Terry Davidson, IFEBP Executive Director Emeritus Sean Maddix, and Life Coach/Podcast Host Alyssa Lee.

If you are looking to help yourself (or anyone else) increase health and wellness…this is the episode for you.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast. We are trying to get these fantastic guest conversations to as many people as possible.

Stay tuned. Volume 2 from the Summit is right around the corner...

We appreciate you all.

Be Well
-NOW

Wellness Alliance-https://www.wellnessalliance.org/home

Dr. Amitha Kalaichandran https://www.dramitha.com

Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/in/amithakalaichandran/

Instagram-@dramithamd

Evrahealth.com

International Foundation of Employee Benefits (IFEBP)- https://www.ifebp.org

Jesse Gavin Linkedin-https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-c-gavin/

Jesse's Website- www.praxiswellbeing.com

Baylor College of Medicine Wellness- https://www.bcm.edu/education/academic-faculty-affairs/student-and-trainee-resources/student-wellness#hdr-search

Mitch Martens- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchmartens/

Huntington Health- https://www.huntingtonhealth.org

Alyssa Lee -www.aloha-lifecoach.com

https://www.linkedin.com/search/results/all/?keywords=Alyssa%20lee&origin=GLOBAL_SEARCH_HEADER&sid=6Xp

With Love and Aloha Podcast Instagram-@love_and_aloha_life

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

American Essayist, lecturer, minister, and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "Life is a journey, not a destination."

It is always tough to let go of a season of this podcast. These are some of our absolute favorite times.

I always find strength and comfort in the above quote. Letting go of a season only reinforces the importance of focusing on the journey, rather than an idea of an endpoint or destination.

We are deeply humbled by the response to Season Three. The milestones we've reached, the number of people around the world who consistently tune in, and the continued caliber and variety of our guests are all beyond anything we could have ever expected.

One of our hopes for this project has always been to offer an experience that is "different and fun" for all of our guests. We continue to get that feedback from each of our guests, with almost all of them asking if they can come back on for another episode.

We are living a dream with each episode.

Welcome to Episode Seventy Three of the Nature of Wellness™️ Podcast.

We wanted to sit down again and catch up with one another, discuss why this season has been successful, and some of the behind-the-scenes happenings of the show.

Join us as we answer listener questions, discuss some of our favorite moments from the season, and some of our BIG changes to come in Season Four and beyond.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast. It will help us extend the reach of these powerful messages.

Additionally, please follow us across social media at @natureofwellness to stay updated with new content, compilation episodes, and more.

Make sure to spend some time in the natural world. We will hopefully see you out there.

In the words of one of my favorite authors, Garrison Keillor, who captures the beauty and harshness of nature in his writing,

"Be well, do good work, and keep in touch."

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

Few clichés have had as profound an impact on human development as the phrase “You are what you eat.”

Our dietary choices have a significant impact on our overall health and wellness, shaping the composition and function of our bodies.

The foods we eat supply the nutrients our bodies need to maintain brain, muscle, bone, nerves, skin, blood circulation, and immune system functioning. Proper nutrition also helps protect us from various illnesses and diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and osteoporosis.

Nutrition is one of the most popular topics on social media, with programming and experts dominating the market. However, following a healthy eating plan is one of the first things we sacrifice when life feels busy or overwhelming.

With so many challenges, where do we turn for the most accurate advice?

Welcome to Episode Seventy-One of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with registered dietitian and health designer Beth Machnica. A leader in designing spaces and systems to maximize human health, Beth is the Director of Health and Well-Being at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, where she created and oversees a portfolio of Food as Medicine programs.

Join us as we talk to Beth about her relationship with nature, the role and function of a registered dietician, the meaning of “food as medicine,” and the role proper nutrition plays in both lifespan and health span.

Beth discusses the barriers to proper nutrition, the health inequities and disparities associated with food insecurity, the importance of nutrition and lifestyle changes for women’s health, and practical tips for anyone wanting to begin eating healthier.

This was a conversation we could really sink our teeth into.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

BNMC website: https://bnmc.org/

Beth’s website: https://linktr.ee/bethmachnica?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Beth’s email: emachnica@bnmc.org

Work with Beth at this link, insurance accepted:https://www.flourishnutrition.io/providers/beth-machnica

Agenda to the 5th Annual Food as Medicine Symposium:https://bnmc.org/health-and-wellbeing/health-and-wellbeing-food-as-medicine-2025/

Get tickets for the hybrid (virtual + in-person) Symposium:https://theticketing.co/e/famsymposium2025

social media tags:

Instagram:

• @bitesbybethh
• @bnmcinnovates
• @beth.machnica

LinkedIn:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmachnica/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/buffalo-niagara-medi

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

According to 2025 data released by the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 billion people are living with mental health disorders.

US survey data collected in March and April 2025 indicate a substantial portion of adults experienced a mental health crisis in the past year, with many facing barriers to accessing help.

The US is experiencing a significant shortage of mental health providers, which has led to a reduction in access to care. We must find proactive ways to manage the rising mental and emotional challenges that we consistently face.

Creativity and wellness are deeply connected. Engaging in creative activities like art, music, and writing has been shown to reduce stress and lower symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Making time for creative outlets as a form of self-care allows for emotional management and expression, stimulates brain function, and promotes a sense of connection to oneself and others.

Welcome to Episode Seventy-One of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with artist, mental health advocate, and keynote speaker Jeffrey Sparr. Diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder as a college athlete, he struggled to live a "normal' life. Jeff co-founded PeaceLove Foundation, a nonprofit that promotes mental health through creative expression.

Join us as we talk to Jeff about his journey with mental illness, how a friend's suggestion to try painting changed the course of his life, and how his new digital teaming tool, Scribl, is reshaping human connection through creativity.

Jeff discusses the challenges mental illness can impact health and wellness, how creativity can serve as a superpower, and how any creative endeavor has a profound impact on quality of life.

This conversation is a work of art (pun intended).

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Jeffrey's Website: http://www.jeffreysparr.com/

Scribl

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scribl-co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scribl.co/

PeaceLove

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peacelovefoundation

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peacelovefoundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peacelovestudios

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

It is hard to argue that changes to our environment are real. Regardless of political affiliation, geographical location, or level of education, it is easy to see that the planet is changing.

These changes can lead to health and wellness challenges, including mental and emotional concerns.

Climate anxiety is a prevalent and growing concern, particularly among young people and increasingly in the general population.

A landmark 2021 study found 84% of young people aged 16-25 were moderately worried about climate change, with 59% being very or extremely worried, while a 2023 study also found that 45% of young people said their feelings about climate change affected their daily functioning. A 2020 American Psychological Association poll found that 55% of adult respondents were somewhat or extremely anxious about climate change.

What can we do to manage these mental and emotional stressors?

Welcome to Episode Seventy of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with Sarah Newman, the founder and executive director of Climate Mental Health Network. Leading the largest organization in a growing sector, Sarah and her team focus on addressing the mental health consequences of climate change.

Join us as we talk to Sarah about her personal journey with the natural world, the realities of a changing world, and how climate anxiety can negatively impact our daily quality of life.

Sarah discusses the role that the Climate Mental Health Network can help all populations manage the concerns over a changing climate, the importance of community in dealing with climate change, and some tangible ways to protect our mental health and wellness amidst constant change.

We left this conversation with a much greater peace of mind.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Climate Mental Health Network Website: https://www.climatementalhealth.net/

CMHN Instagram: @climatementalhealth

CMHN Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/climate-mental-health-network/

CMHN Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ClimateMentalHealthNetwork

How to Invest in CMHN's Mission: https://givebutter.com/climatementalhealth

GEN Z Study Mentioned: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(24)00229-8/fulltext

Climate Emotions Map: https://www.us-climate-emotions-map.org/

Upcoming CMHN Webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jkch6Yg2SEKQtT8xqbcP0Q#/registration

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

Humans and forests have always had a deeply interdependent and harmonious relationship.

Humans depend on forests for vital resources like food, building materials, and oxygen. Forests benefit when human actions maintain the health and biodiversity of their environment.

While vital for the overall health of the planet, time in a forest has been shown to increase our immunity, reduce stress, and improve mood.

Studies continue to show a decline in outdoor activity and participation.

Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guides create a safe, reflective space, helping participants slow down, engage their senses, and cultivate a deeper connection to the natural world.

Welcome to Episode Sixty-Nine of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with award-winning naturalist, interpreter, and hiking guide Ronna Schneberger. With over 30 years of experience in the Canadian Mountain Parks, Ronna became one of the first certified forest therapy guides and trainers in Canada, and serves as Chair of Nature and Forest Therapy of Canada, advocating for the integration of guided nature-based therapies into mainstream health.

Join us as we talk to Ronna about her strong connection to nature, her journey of self-discovery that led to a successful career connecting humans with nature, and her essential work connecting executives, leaders, and children with the natural world.

Ronna discusses the role of a nature and forest therapy guide, how humans benefit from entering a liminal space through nature time, and her current collaboration, which trains healthcare professionals to serve as guides, bringing nature into their personal and professional practices.

Ronna guided us on a fantastic journey of healing and growth.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Ronna's Instagram: @forestfixcanada

Nature and Forest Therapy of Canada: https://natureforesttherapycanada.org/

Association of Nature and Forest Therapy: https://anft.earth/

Nature & Systems Institute: https://www.naturesystemsinstitute.com/nature-as-medicine-practitioner-training

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

Humans have always found solace, support, and shared experience in our relationship with stories.

Storytelling is deeply rooted in the human experience and has always played a critical role in our social, spiritual, and evolutionary development.

The earliest form of human communication, storytelling, is a building block in how we learn, remember, process information and feelings, and build meaningful connections with others.

Our experiences with nature have always been deeply interwoven into our stories.

Our stories bout the natural world have created a sense of belonging, influenced our behaviors and philosophical perspectives, and inspired environmental stewardship.

By observing and immersing themselves in the natural world, writers can find unique perspectives, vivid imagery, and deeper emotional connections for their stories.

Welcome to Episode Sixty-Eight of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with bestselling author and conservationist Steve Ramirez. After experiencing the healing power of nature, following a professional military and law enforcement career, Steve became a catalyst for helping others connect with nature and share in his desire to protect and respect the natural world.

Join us as we talk to Steve about his strong connection to nature, the power of a well-told story in shaping human culture and behavior, and his desire to inspire others through his books to care for the planet proactively.

Steve discusses some of the challenges facing both humanity and the environment, how he found healing on trails and in rivers, and how adversity can be a strong starting point for lifestyle change.

Steve's story is definitely one we are excited to share.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Steve's Website: https://www.steveramirezauthor.com/

Steve's Instagram: @steveramirezuthor

SIgned copies of Steve's books: https://www.bobwhitestudio.com

Trout Unlimited: https://www.tu.org/

The Nature Conservancy https://www.nature.org/en-us/

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

Wellness is a term that is far too often misunderstood and misrepresented.

Prioritizing our levels of wellness enhances quality of life, reduces the risk of chronic conditions, increases our levels of joy and life satisfaction, and boosts resilience.

Worksite wellness refers to the overall physical, mental, and emotional health of employees within an organization from top to bottom.

This concept encompasses a range of factors that contribute to the happiness, satisfaction, and productivity of a workforce. Prioritizing workplace wellness has become recognized as critical for employee retention, productivity, and overall organizational success.

In essence, companies that emphasize worksite wellness make a strategic investment in their most valuable asset – their employees.

Welcome to Episode Sixty-Seven of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with nationally recognized wellbeing strategist, worksite wellness authority, and visionary healthcare leader Maria Dee. Maria works with business leaders and serves as a thought leader to inspire collaborations and partnerships across all sectors, encouraging the sharing of innovative practices and the latest research to help solve some of the biggest challenges in achieving improved health and wellbeing for a workforce.

Join us as we talk to Maria about her journey with the natural world, the qualities of a successful wellness program, and some of the biggest challenges facing the health and wellness field.

Maria discusses the need for holistic approaches to worksite wellness, the benefits of involving all levels of an organization in building a successful wellness program, the importance of involving family in lasting lifestyle changes, and the power of vulnerability in mentorship opportunities.

This conversation reminded us that wellness is a journey, not a destination.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Wellness Alliance Website: https://www.wellnessalliance.org/home

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify