In this solo episode, Alyssabeth explores why “going analog” in 2026, as a return to deep, offline, human connection, may be the most important thing you can do as a creative and business owner. Speaking as a millennial writer, retreat leader, and introvert, she shares her personal disenchantment with social media, why long-form content still matters, and how getting in the room with others can be one of the most powerful choices you make for your creativity, wellbeing, and business. You’ll hear how intentional, in-person community, from yoga classes and women’s business groups. to retreats and local meetups can help ease the loneliness epidemic, spark collaborations, and bring you back to presence in a world that profits from your distraction. In This Episode, We Explore'Going analog' in 2026What “going analog” means beyond nostalgia or trendsWhy deeper connections off social media are more needed than everDisenchantment with social media & content creator cultureThe impact of constant content creation on presence and attentionNavigating the tension between visibility as a business owner and healthy boundaries onlineReturning to long-form and depthReclaiming long-form writing, podcasting, and real conversationsUsing meditation and mindfulness to create discernment around tech and appsThe loneliness epidemic & post-college drop-off in connectionHow many adults are feeling isolated and lacking emotional supportWhy connection often plummets after college or early adulthood—and what we can do about itGetting in the room: stories from Alyssabeth’s journeyGoing back to school for an MBA and connecting with very different personalitiesJoining the Ventura County Business Women’s Group and experiencing women-centered networkingHow in-person yoga, meditation, and retreats create presence-centered communityPresence as a creative superpowerWhy authentic connection can’t be optimized, automated, or replaced by AIHow presence creates the conditions for clarity, new ideas, and aligned collaborationsYour invitation to go analogPractical ideas: yoga classes, meditation groups, book clubs, hike clubs, and other recurring in-person eventsJournaling prompts: noticing what opens—new friendships, collaborations, or creative projectsCommunity offerings & next stepsEmpowered Soul Retreats’ upcoming Return to Sacred retreat in the AndesThe new Mindful Misfits Collective in Big Bear: an in-person community for multi-passionate, mindful humans Timestamps00:00 – 05:30 • Why “going analog in 2026” and what this episode is about05:30 – 13:30 • Disenchantment with social media, content culture, and attention spans13:30 – 21:00 • Long-form content, poetry, and redefining “content creation”21:00 – 29:00 • The loneliness epidemic and the post-college collapse of connection29:00 – 38:00 • MBA, Ventura County Business Women’s Group, and intentional in-person networking38:00 – 47:00 • Retreats, deep presence, and why authentic connection can’t be optimized47:00 – end • Your invitation to “get in the room,” Mindful Misfits Collective, and upcoming Peru Retreat in July Invitations & Links Mentioned:Empowered Soul Retreats – Return to Sacred Retreat Peru July 7-14, 2026.Join us for an immersive retreat centered on yoga, meditation, and holistic wellbeing in the Andes.Mindful Misfits Collective - Big Bear, CAA meetup-style community for multi-passionate, mindful humans interested in intentional connection, fitness, wellness, and personal growth. Expect meditation meetups, book clubs, sound baths, hike meetups, and more.Fill out the Interest form to join & be the first to get details on upcoming events. Reflection & Journal PromptsWhere in your life are you craving more in-person connection?What is one recurring in-person event (class, club, meetup) you can commit to exploring this month?After you 'get in the room' what do you notice in your body, your creativity, and your sense of belonging? Want to be a Guest on the Podcast? Fill out the Podcast Guest application form! Connect with AlyssabethEmpowered Soul Retreats: www.empoweredsoulretreats.comOwn Your Own Way Yoga: www.omyourownwayyoga.comDo you enjoy Meditate Wander Create Podcast? Subscribe, rate, and share with a friend who’s craving more offline connection. :)
