SXSW 2026: We've Been Building Health Apps Wrong - E92

A few weeks ago, I attended SXSW 2026 and walked away with a bunch of questions: What if the very way we’ve been designing health apps is the reason they fail most people?Why do tools built to improve our wellbeing so often rely on perfect daily use - something almost no one can sustain?After attending SXSW 2026, one thing became clear: the dominant model of digital health is broken. Measuring success by engagement, streaks, and time on app doesn’t reflect how humans actually behave - and it’s limiting real impact.In this episode, I unpack the biggest insights from SXSW 2026 and explore a more human approach to health - one that embraces inconsistency, prioritizes meaningful behavior change, and rethinks what success in health tech should look like.In this episode you will learn: Why South by Southwest (SXSW) is a hub for health, tech, and human behavior ideas. The role of city energy and culture in driving wellness innovation. How building real-life connections transforms business and health goals. Key takeaways on AI, digital health, and the future of behavior change. The latest thinking on women's health and GLP-1 medications. How simple, enjoyable routines make lasting changes in health and life.Resources Connect with Andrew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandrewmcconnell Follow Alively on Instagram for regular updates and insights: https://www.instagram.com/alively_official Learn more about healthspan from Andrew’s blog: https://www.mandrewmcconnell.com/blogThis podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency:https://www.zapods.comFind the products, practices, and routines discussed on the Alively website:https://alively.com