Can nurturing your social connections actually lead to a healthier, longer life? Join us as we unravel the often-overlooked yet vital aspect of wellness—social connection—unlocking the secrets to reducing stress and boosting happiness through meaningful relationships. Hosts Jeff Ford and Kendra Till are your guides on this enlightening journey, where the impact of feeling connected is shown to be just as critical as diet and exercise. We journey to Okinawa, Japan, to explore the "Moai" support groups that contribute to the impressive longevity of its people, showcasing the profound effect of social bonds.

Prepare to rethink what it means to connect with others as we highlight the power of community and shared experiences. Discover how adventures like the Trails and Ales trip can forge bonds that enhance well-being, rivaling even family ties. We also delve into the dual benefits of fitness classes, where physical exertion meets social interaction, fostering both health and friendships. Our episode provides practical tips for strengthening relationships through active listening, gratitude, and quality time, emphasizing the importance of unstructured family moments that leave lasting impressions.

As we wrap up this year on a reflective note, we encourage you to set attainable relationship goals and embrace routines that prioritize personal connections. With the holiday season upon us, it's a perfect opportunity to engage genuinely with everyone around us, from loved ones to those we encounter daily. Expressing gratitude and kindness, even towards strangers, enriches our lives and promotes personal growth. As we express our heartfelt gratitude for your support throughout our journey, we remind you to embrace these insights and prepare for new beginnings in 2025. We'll be back with fresh content on January 8th, 2025, and look forward to continuing this journey with you.

Curious about the enchanting world of sea turtles and the magic of the Lowcountry? Join us as naturalist Cassie Critchlow takes us on a journey through the vibrant ecosystems of Montage Palmetto Bluff. Cassie's lifelong passion for marine life began with dreams of working with fish, leading her to transformative experiences at the Georgia Aquarium and Disney Hilton Head Island Resort. Through her vivid storytelling, you'll gain insights into the mesmerizing nesting season of sea turtles and the vital conservation efforts to protect these incredible creatures.

Explore the unique blend of nature and wildlife at Palmetto Bluff, where deer education and sustainability initiatives are at the forefront. Cassie shares her expertise on managing the deer population and highlights the significance of iconic species like alligators and Spanish moss. Listeners are invited to appreciate the delicate balance between development and nature, learning how Palmetto Bluff honors its rich history while embracing growth. With stories of alligator sightings and immersive nature programs, this episode paints a picture of a stunning natural paradise.

Discover the powerful connection between wellness and nature as Cassie reveals her love for running and the simple joys it brings. Emphasizing the importance of knowledge in conservation, she encourages us to engage with our surroundings and pursue our aspirations with mindfulness. This episode is a call to action, urging listeners to plan effectively, overcome procrastination, and make the coming year one of fulfillment and progress, inspired by the wonders of the natural world.

Running has been a journey of self-discovery, humor, and personal growth for us. From the humble beginnings at Clemson University to organizing our most successful Turkey Trot yet, we’ve seen how running can transform lives and bring communities together. With over 900 participants and $20,000 raised for Memory Matters, our Thanksgiving Day event was filled with joy, laughter, and heartwarming moments, like the unforgettable family reunion and the pure delight of kids at the Turkey Toss. Our costumes may have been feathered, but the sense of community spirit soared higher than ever.

Running isn't just about endurance—it's about technique, strength, and overcoming challenges. As hosts, we’ve taken our personal running mishaps and turned them into learning opportunities. From comical bar runs that left us nursing injuries to serious lapses in form leading to knee, foot, and back issues, we’ve faced it all. Through these experiences, we've learned the importance of proper movement mechanics, as well as how small adjustments can significantly enhance performance and prevent injuries. By sharing these insights, we hope to guide others on their own path to healthier running.

Imagine running with a glass of water on your head; it's all about balance and posture. This episode unravels the myths surrounding running mechanics and footwear, emphasizing efficiency over equipment. We’ve shifted focus from traditional endurance to mastering techniques like posture, cadence, and stride, advocating for minimalist footwear to strengthen your natural form. Whether you’re new to running or seeking improvement, our conversation promises practical tips and a fresh perspective on achieving a more efficient, injury-free run. Consistent improvement is the key, and we’re here to help you unlock your potential.

Uncover the hidden stories of resilience and transformation at Palmetto Bluff as we explore its history from the Reconstruction Era to modern development. Join us on a journey through time, as we, Jeff Ford and cultural expert Katie Epps, illuminate the struggles and triumphs of this region. Discover the personal success of Cyrus Garvey, a formerly enslaved person who defied the odds to become a landowner during a period marked by economic hardship and the oppressive sharecropping system. Through poignant stories and historical records, we piece together the lives of freedmen and their communities, offering a vivid picture of strength and perseverance.

Our exploration continues with the influence of influential families in shaping Palmetto Bluff's legacy. From the grand Victorian mansion of Estill to the modern innovations introduced by the Wilson family, we examine how these transitions impacted the region. With Marion Wilson's embrace of luxury and RT Wilson's modernization initiatives, including the introduction of electricity, Palmetto Bluff began its transformation while preserving its natural beauty. The Wilson family's acquisition of surrounding plantations further cemented their historical significance, and we delve into how their legacy continues to resonate today.

Finally, we explore the ongoing commitment to preserving the rich history of Palmetto Bluff. Learn about the aftermath of the 1926 fire, various ownership changes, and the cultural significance of local cemeteries. We reflect on modern developments spurred by International Paper Company and Crescent Resources, underscoring the importance of conservation and education in honoring this storied past. As we conclude, we express heartfelt gratitude to Katie Epps for her invaluable insights and to you, our listeners, for your support. We invite you to revisit previous episodes for a comprehensive understanding and to join us in future discussions that celebrate Palmetto Bluff's enduring legacy.

Ever wondered how the antebellum and Civil War eras shaped the cultural and economic landscape of the American South? Join us on Behind the Bluff as we journey through these transformative years with Katie Epps, Director of Cultural Resources at Palmetto Bluff. Together, we unravel the complexities of plantation life from 1784 to 1865, examining South Carolina's pivotal role in the Civil War and the profound impact of secession. Discover the challenges faced by plantation owners as they grappled with the cessation of the transatlantic slave trade and how these shifts led to structural and architectural changes across the region.

As we move through history, Katie helps us spotlight key figures like John Estill and Wilson, who played crucial roles in Palmetto Bluff's slow recovery post-Civil War. We'll explore the socio-economic shifts and the lingering issues that shaped the Lowcountry, from devastating fires to the evolving landscape of landownership. This engaging episode provides a detailed look at the layers of history that continue to define this unique landscape. Prepare for a rich exploration of the past as we set the stage for the upcoming Reconstruction era discussion.

Discover the captivating story of Palmetto Bluff's early history with our distinguished guest, Katie Epps, the Director of Cultural Resources at Palmetto Bluff. Growing up amidst the historical richness of Charleston fueled Katie's passion for uncovering the past, leading her to become an archaeologist with a knack for storytelling and a love for the outdoors. We kick off our three-part series on the history of Palmetto Bluff by transporting you back to its prehistoric and colonial eras, revealing a remarkable timeline of human activity that stretches over 12,000 years. Tune in to hear Katie's fascinating journey into archaeology and how her experiences, including working with the Army, have enriched her understanding of this intriguing locale.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become an archaeologist? In this episode, we'll guide you through the educational pathways and challenges faced by those in the field, from earning a bachelor's to pursuing a doctorate for teaching or leadership roles. Katie shares vivid tales from the trenches of fieldwork, where the realities of archaeology meet the unpredictability of nature. Along the way, you'll gain insights into the continuous narrative of Palmetto Bluff, learning how its story interweaves with broader historical events up until the late 1700s. Join us for an engaging exploration of Palmetto Bluff's past, and be sure not to miss the next segments as we journey through more layers of its vibrant history.

GLP-1 medications could be a game-changer for weight loss, but at what cost? Join us, Jeff and Lindsay Ford, as we uncover the secrets behind these intriguing drugs, their origins, and the science that supports their use. Inspired by a unique lizard's ability to maintain stable blood sugar levels, these medications have transitioned from diabetes management to the weight loss frontier. We discuss popular brands like Ozempic and Wegovy, emphasizing the importance of obtaining these medications safely and through proper medical channels.

Our conversation doesn't shy away from addressing the potential drawbacks, such as muscle loss and decreased motivation for physical activity, that some individuals experience when using GLP-1 medications. We dive into personal stories and the role a balanced diet plays in naturally enhancing GLP-1 production. While these medications offer promising results, we also challenge societal factors fueling their popularity and stress the importance of fostering a sustainable relationship with food that goes beyond medication.

In our wrap-up, we highlight the critical balance between taking shortcuts and maintaining healthy habits. Whether it's understanding one's resting metabolic rate or preserving muscle mass through nutrition and strength training, the key lies in intentional effort alongside convenience. We encourage listeners to apply this mindset across all life areas. As we conclude our discussion on GLP-1 medications, we are thrilled to announce our next series on the captivating history of Palmetto Bluff. Stay tuned, and remember, Lindsay is here to answer any lingering questions you may have.

Discover the secrets to human flourishing through the lens of the PERMA model with our special guest, Dr. Katie Rider Mundey. As a licensed psychologist and the founder of She Thrives Psychology and Consulting, Dr. Rider Mundey shares her insights on cultivating positive emotions and prioritizing mental health. Her expertise in women's mental health, including trauma therapy, perinatal mental health, and eating disorders, offers a profound understanding of how these principles can be universally applied. Join us as we explore her professional journey and the values that drive her passion for helping individuals thrive.

We'll guide you through Martin Seligman's PERMA model, a cornerstone of positive psychology. Learn how to balance hedonic pleasures with eudaimonic fulfillment by aligning your actions with your personal values. We'll discuss practical exercises to help identify these values and align them with your daily life. Dr. Rider Mundey emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects what truly matters to you, providing listeners with actionable strategies to achieve well-being and a sense of fulfillment.

Gratitude takes center stage as we explore its transformative power in cultivating positive emotions. From gratitude lists to the profound impact of a gratitude visit, we'll share creative and effective techniques to integrate appreciation into your life. You'll also hear about the importance of mental health routines and how reducing stigma is reshaping our approach to well-being. With Dr. Rider Mundey's expertise, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to inspire you to create a proactive mental health practice that complements your lifestyle.