Episode Summary
In this heartfelt and insightful conversation, Liz sits down with Hannah Corbett, founder of Presence and Co., an innovative well-being-focused social club in Reading, MA. The pair discuss the importance of authentic, in-person human connection in an increasingly digital—and often lonely—world.
Hannah shares the inspiration behind Presence and Co., her journey through burnout and health policy, and how her own experience at a silent retreat fueled her passion to create a space for genuine community without the distraction of phones or alcohol. The episode touches on everything from “phone jail,” adult loneliness, intergenerational connection, the science of social wellness, and the power of curiosity.
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Key Topics & Takeaways
- What is Presence and Co.?A welcoming, alcohol-free social club focused on wellness, genuine connection, and learning—phones are locked away to foster true presence.
- Tackling Adult Loneliness:Hannah and Liz delve into the “epidemic of loneliness” affecting adults of all ages, why it's a public health concern, and how community gathering spaces are part of the solution.
- The Power of In-Person Events:Game nights, women's circles, and workshops at Presence and Co. attract a diverse age range, creating opportunities for intergenerational friendships and learning.
- Phone Jail & Digital Detox:Hannah shares her experience on a tech-free silent retreat and the impact it had on her focus and well-being, inspiring Presence and Co.'s signature “phone jail” policy.
- Burnout & Boundaries:The conversation explores how modern work and our always-on culture contribute to burnout. Hannah and Liz discuss the importance of setting visible boundaries around rest and downtime.
- Embracing Curiosity for Well-Being:Hannah describes her personal “curiosity exercise” and how it kickstarted her business ideas, encouraging listeners to rediscover what excites and inspires them.
- Reading, Learning, and Growth:Both share their passion for reading as a tool for growth, and Hannah reveals the surprising statistic that reading just four books on a topic makes you more knowledgeable than 98% of people in that area.
Memorable Quotes
- “It’s not a summons, it’s an invitation.”
- “If we’re not willing to be curious, what is the point?”
- “Phones have sold us on this concept of connection, but in reality, there is a huge, huge disconnection.”
- “You only have one life. If you want to spend it inside your computer, it’s going to be a very different life.”
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