What if the most overlooked pillar of your health isn’t food, sleep, or exercise, but your relationships? In this episode, I sit down with Shawn Stevenson, bestselling author and host of The Model Health Show, to explore how connection shapes everything from your stress response to your metabolism, gut health, and even gene expression. Shawn shares his journey of healing from a spinal diagnosis at 20, and how building a culture of connection, through food, family, and presence, transformed not only his body, but his entire life. We talk about why eating together is a healing ritual, how loneliness affects your biology, and why being seen and supported is essential for long-term wellbeing. Shawn Stevenson is a nutritionist, researcher, and the creator of The Model Health Show. Shawn is the author of the international bestsellers Sleep Smarter and Eat Smarter, which have been published in over 20 countries. His work bridges the gap between evidence-based health strategies and real-world application, with a focus on metabolic health, sleep science, and the impact of social and environmental factors on long-term wellbeing. What's Discussed: (00:00) Rooted in Wellness: Opening the conversation on healing through connection(04:45) From processed foods to healing: Shawn’s turning point and early health awakening(14:49) How community and relationships reshape your biology(29:03) Creative family rituals that build lasting bonds(38:28) Cooking as connection: empowering wellness through shared meals(47:18) Belief and biology: how mindset influences gene expression(54:04) What your biological age reveals, and why self-quantification isn’t everything(01:30:53) Your relationships are the most powerful wellness tool you have Thank You to Our Sponsors: Pulsetto: If you’ve been feeling anxious, burnt out, or disconnected from your body, Pulsetto is a gentle, wearable tool that supports your vagus nerve, the gateway to your rest-and-restore state. Try it for 10% off at pulsetto.sjv.io/MONA with code MONA. Rooted Academy: Join Rooted Academy by Mona Sharma, a science-backed, community-driven wellness platform designed to help you heal from within. https://www.monasharma.com/rooted 12 Tips: 12 tips: Small shifts, big energy, feel clearer, brighter, and more like you.Download my 12 wellness tips with Dr. Mark Hyman: monasharma.com/12tips Learn more about Mona Sharma: Download Your FREE Guide - 12 Wellness Tips to Unlock Your Best Health Now: Ready to reclaim your vitality? Download Mona’s 12 Wellness Tips and take actionable steps to transform your health, energy, and mindset. Get started now at https://monasharma.com/12tips.  Visit Mona's website: https://monasharma.com – Unlock powerful tools and wisdom rooted in wellness to elevate your health, energy, and clarity. Mona blends ancient healing practices with modern science to help you achieve lasting transformation. Follow Mona on Instagram: Stay connected with Mona for daily inspiration, holistic health tips, and personal growth. Join the conversation on Instagram at https://instagram.com/monasharma. Learn more about Shawn Stevenson:  Website: https://themodelhealthshow.com  Instagram: https://instagram.com/shawnmodel Podcast: https://themodelhealthshow.com/podcasts  Books: Eat Smarter, Sleep Smarter