S1E7 Now we gather. This simple motto carries a deeper meaning beyond the first glance, its significance can be experienced by preparing a meal and enjoying it with family and friends. Licensed Clinical Social Worker Leslie Todd joins us on Smidgen to talk loneliness, isolation and how those factors affect mental health, plus what actions we can all take to counteract the negative results. Host Anne Milneck and Leslie dive deep into how we form close, interpersonal connections and identify some of the barriers that prevent us from connecting (hint: some of these barriers buzz and beep all day and night, and might be in your hand right now.) The conversation turns to food, of course, and how the nourishment of food mirrors our most primal relationships. It is not a coincidence that eating together has the potential to bond and connect us. Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, Leslie offers ideas for reconnecting (including experiences like a cooking class at Red Stick Spice Co.) Cooking Segment: To bring home the idea of sharing a meal with others, Anne heads off to the kitchen with Red Stick Spice Co. store staffer Sara to prepare Roasted Cauliflower with Capers, Walnuts and Yogurt, a dish perfect for sharing with family and friends.  Mentioned on the show: RECIPE: Completely delicious Roasted Cauliflower with Capers, Walnuts and Yogurt—be sure to have naan on hand, and expect a clean platter after serving up this dish. The lemony yogurt in this recipe: game changer! Leslie Todd is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Learn more about Leslie and her practice, Strategies for Change at LeslieTodd.com. The gorgeous color of the dish comes from our Harissa Extra Virgin Olive Oil. We also used a sprinkling of Zhug. Our All Natural Avocado Oil and White Balsamic Vinegar provide the tang in the sauce drizzled over the cauliflower. This is not the first time Anne has thought about gathering. Read more about Anne’s take on the importance of gathering—she’s built her entire business around this one simple act that pays dividends in health and happiness. Leslie also recommended reaching out to a trusted loved one, mentor, school or church leader if you’re concerned with feelings of isolation or loneliness. You can connect with mental health professionals in your area via the Psychology Today website. Use discount code SMIDGEN15 to save 15% your entire order at Red Stick Spice Co. Be sure to reach out to us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. We’d love to hear about how you gather with family and friends, or even what you’d like to hear on Season 2 of Smidgen (coming soon!!) Listen to Smidgen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app.  Smidgen is the podcast of Red Stick Spice Co.