In a world where pushing to the brink of burnout and beyond is often the norm in pursuit of success, what led a former policy and political advisor to shift course and embrace a life of health and well-being?
It’s a question that challenges us to identify what truly brings meaning to our lives and invites us to consider how we might redirect our talents from a purely achievement-oriented focus towards a life that combines service of others with personal well-being.
This episode’s guest is Laurie A. Watkins, a former policy and political advisor in the Obama administration, author of the health and wellness book Go From Stressed to Strong, Founder & President of Sunshine L.A.W. Consulting, and Founder of The Cook’s Collective.
After suffering a burnout in 2008 while working in national politics, she learned the importance of prioritizing one’s physical and mental health. She traded in a stress-filled and unhealthy lifestyle for one that enabled her to flourish, strengthening her ability to serve others. As a social impact leader and catalyst for change, she now helps other people do the same.
It was during her own health journey that she recognized the important role food plays in nourishing both body and mind. After getting to know celebrity Chef José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit that provides meals to people at the front lines of humanitarian, climate, and community conflict, she was inspired to co-found The Cook’s Collective which champions systemic changes that prioritize the mental health and well-being of people who work in the food and beverage industry.
In this episode, Laurie shares how from a young age she learned to speak up when something was wrong, why taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, and why we don’t need to sacrifice well-being in pursuit of an impactful and meaningful life. She also talks about the very special role her companion animal plays in her life.
LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
