In this episode of The HEALS Pod, I had the pleasure of welcoming two distinguished guests from Touro University, Steven Peralta, the Chief Strategy Officer, and Lance Eliason, the Director of Alumni Engagement and Partnerships. Our conversation revolved around the flourishing sports culture in Las Vegas and its impact on the community, particularly in relation to education and healthcare.

We kicked off the episode by discussing my initial skepticism about the arrival of professional sports teams in Las Vegas, particularly the Golden Knights. I shared my journey from being a "negative Nancy" to recognizing the positive transformation these teams have brought to our city. The Golden Knights, in particular, have not only excelled in their sport but have also united the community, especially in the wake of the tragic events of October 1st. Their success has paved the way for other teams, like the Aces, to thrive and contribute to a vibrant sports culture.

Steven, who grew up in Seattle, emphasized the importance of sports in teaching resilience and life skills to young people. He noted that the growth of sports in Las Vegas has created a unique opportunity for youth development and community engagement. Lance, a Las Vegas native, reminisced about the early days of local sports and highlighted how the current winning culture is inspiring the next generation to pursue their dreams.

As we delved deeper, we explored the connection between sports and education, particularly in healthcare. I raised the point that as sports teams grow, so does the need for professionals in various fields, including physical therapy and sports medicine. Steven and Lance discussed how Touro University is actively working to retain students in the community by exposing them to local sports and career opportunities.

We also touched on the importance of mental health and resilience in both sports and healthcare. The conversation highlighted how athletes are increasingly sharing their struggles, helping to destigmatize mental health issues. This openness is crucial for future healthcare professionals who will face similar challenges in their careers.

Towards the end of the episode, we discussed the role of alumni in bridging the gap between current students and the professional world. By bringing back successful graduates to share their experiences, Touro University is fostering a culture of mentorship and inspiration. We also brainstormed ways to connect with younger generations, emphasizing the need to excite them about careers in healthcare and sports.