40. LM Week 2025 Day 7: Social Connection with Simon Matthews

In this episode, Melyssa is joined by Simon Matthews, a seasoned expert in health and wellness coaching, to delve into the importance of social connection as a pivotal component of lifestyle medicine. Simon shares his unconventional journey from nearly becoming a radio broadcaster and airline pilot to establishing himself in the field of psychology and lifestyle medicine. The conversation highlights the multi-faceted nature of social connectedness, from interpersonal relationships to connections with nature, animals, and broader cultural and spiritual communities. They discuss practical strategies like 'social snacking'—simple, everyday interactions—that can help build and strengthen social ties. Emphasizing intentionality, Simon and Melissa explore how these small steps can lead to significant improvements in overall health and wellbeing, making healthy living an enjoyable and sustainable endeavor.CONNECT WITH SIMONLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonmatthewsfaslm/Website: https://www.simonmatthewsconsulting.comTiny Health Stories: https://www.tinyhealthstories.online/CHECK OUT OUR LINKS!Join the Change Maker Collective group coaching membership to receive support, accountability, and coaching from Melyssa to achieve your lifestyle change goals!Check out our size inclusive virtual fitness studio, Move with Melyssa!Grab our FREE 25-minute audiobook Introduction sneak peek from the book!Join our FREE Change Maker Community here!Grab your copy of Melyssa’s book here!Follow us on Instagram: Email Melyssa at: [email protected] our website: https://www.healthylivingdoesnthavetosuck.com/TIMESTAMPS00:53 Introduction to Lifestyle Medicine Week Day 701:40 Special Guest: Simon Matthews on Social Connection02:22 Simon's Journey to Lifestyle Medicine04:16 The Importance of Behavioral Change07:30 Exploring Systemic Connectedness16:56 The Concept of Social Snacking19:09 The Power of Social Snacking20:31 Positive Psychology Interventions21:49 Starting Small: Building Social Connections26:40 Intentionality in Social Connections28:41 Introversion vs. Extroversion in Social Connections36:24 Combining Lifestyle Medicine Principles