Dr. Jenny Powers is a mother, a writer, a scientist, and an athlete from Colorado. Jenny's PhD is in immunology, but she left academia to be a mom and to pursue a writing career. Up to that point, she had only written scientific journal articles and fiction for middle grade children. The opportunity to research and write on the origin of being with Luke Comer, allowed her scientific training and passion for writing to come together. Her book, On the Origin of Being: Understanding the Science of Evolution to Enhance your Quality of Life, discusses how modern life mismatches with our biological needs, affecting health, well-being, and community. It was wonderful speaking with her and I can't wait to welcome her back to the podcast. I know you'll enjoy this episode. 

 

What you'll hear:

 

• Jenn's background, her struggle with depression, and the disconnect between her achievements and self-worth (1:37)
• Her transition from academia to writing (3:09)
• Collaborating with Luke Comer and the book's four main topics (5:57)
• Impact of the book on her personal life and career (9:53)
• Challenges and changes in modern society (12:41)
• The normalizing of diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes, and the importance of community and connection in addressing these issues (20:00)
• How her spiritual path has led her to become more attuned to her body (30:46)
• Learning from the past and keeping an eye on the future (33:42)
• Self-worth being tied to accomplishments (35:25)
• Living vs. dying for your children (44:38)
• Societal belief systems and thought processes that keep us entrapped in our unhealthy lifestyles (52:40)
• The dangers of relying on technology (56:40)
• Hobbies (1:03:14)
• Sustainability (1:06:17)

 

Where to learn more:

 

• Origin of Being

 

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