Birds & Nerds Podcast25 Nov 2025

Birds & Nerds | Americans feel isolated, invisible, and insignificant and it's hurting our health

America is in the midst of a loneliness crisis. People of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds are feeling isolated, invisible, and insignificant. Social disconnection and digital isolation are rampant. In addition to taking a toll on us mentally and emotionally, it is hurting us physically and economically. Studies show stress can decrease our longevity and can manifest in physical symptoms, which can lead to more trips to the doctor.

In this conversation, I am joined by Jean Accius, president & CEO of CHC: Creating Healthier Communities, to explore the emotional, mental, and physical state of health in the United States. It is all connected and we're looking at ways to significantly improve the feeling of community and connections to address this crisis.

Nature can aid the healing. Building connections can alleviate loneliness. Jean and I discuss the therapeutic benefits of nature and community engagement, particularly through shared interests such as birdwatching. Jean shares that he just recently started pausing to observe birds on his walks and runs and how that has changed his perspective about several things. I share how watching an eagle nest cam connected me to a new community during COVID, one that continues to thrive today.

You can watch the episode on our YouTube channel here: Birds & Nerds Podcast

Watch now for these and more stories. Learn more about CHC: Creating Healthier Communities: https://chcimpact.org/

Visit the Birds & Nerds website and subscribe to notifications: https://www.birdsandnerdspodcast.com/

Who am I? I am an award-winning journalist and storyteller curious about everything! Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramonaschindelheim/

BONUS: Here is the link to the eagle nest camera: https://www.friendsofbigbearvalley.org/eagles/

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