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In an era where digital interactions often replace face-to-face conversations, the need for genuine human connection has never been more critical. On February 20, 2025, the Silicon Slopes & Promise2Live Mental Health Town Hall convened industry leaders, mental health advocates, and community members at Silicon Slopes HQ in Lehi, Utah.
Through personal stories, expert insights, and actionable takeaways, one message stood out: Connection saves lives.
The Science of Connection & Thriving Relationships
Cory Ivins, an expert in human psychology and communication, emphasized the deep impact of relationships on mental health and success. He discussed how attachment styles, active listening, and vulnerability foster meaningful bonds.
Key Takeaways from Cory Ivins:
- Real listening strengthens relationships.
- Listening leads to truths, which enable growth and change.
- True peace is created when we act on what we learn.
- Peace isn’t passive.
- (Announcement: Cory Ivins will release a course for struggling couples.)
Discovering Your True Self & Living with Purpose
Former aerospace engineer turned high-performance coach Aaron Shields shared his journey from societal expectations to authentic living. He stressed the importance of self-awareness in fostering fulfilling relationships.
Key Takeaways from Aaron Shields:
- Authenticity is the foundation of strong relationships.
- Unresolved internal struggles manifest in relationships.
- Personal growth enhances emotional resilience.
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Parenting & Family Connection in a Distracted World
Connection coach Katie Shields provided valuable strategies for parents striving to maintain meaningful relationships with their children in a technology-driven world.
Key Takeaways from Katie Shields:
- Intentional connection strengthens family bonds.
- Healthy technology boundaries improve emotional well-being.
- Self-regulation as a parent models emotional intelligence for children.
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The Mind-Body Connection: Mental & Physical Health Go Hand-in-Hand
Dr. Dave Morgan underscored the inseparable link between mental and physical health, highlighting the impact of stress, sleep, and lifestyle choices on emotional resilience.
Key Takeaways from Dr. Dave Morgan:
- Chronic stress negatively affects physical health.
- Sleep, nutrition, and movement are essential for mental well-being.
- A balanced lifestyle fosters emotional resilience.
Final Remarks from Brandy Vega: A Call to Action
Brandy Vega, founder of Promise2Live, closed the event with a powerful reminder: mental health is not just a crisis but an ongoing conversation. She urged attendees to take action in their personal and professional lives.
How You Can Get Involved:
- Make the Promise2Live: Commit to reaching out when struggling and checking in on others. Sign the pledge at www.Promise2Live.org.
- Attend an Upcoming Event: The next Silicon Slopes Mental Health Town Hall (April 17, 2025) will focus on burnout and resilience.
- Support the Mission:
- Share your story in the “Names Behind the Numbers” Campaign.
- Become a corporate sponsor or donate to fund outreach efforts.
- Follow Promise2Live on social media and spread awareness.
- Seek Help When Needed: Reach out to resources like 988, NAMI, AFSP, or the JED Foundation.
The Road Ahead: Turning Awareness into Action
This town hall served as a powerful reminder that awareness is only the first step—action is what truly changes lives. Attendees left with a renewed commitment to strengthening relationships, prioritizing self-care, and supporting those in need. Together, we can turn awareness into action and save lives.
View the February 20, 2025 Silicon Slopes & Promise2Live Mental Health Town Hall here:
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TechBuzz again welcomes guest-author Brandy Vega, a dynamic entrepreneur, media guru, mother, philanthropist, advocate and founder of Vega Media Studios.
At age 17, Vega joined the Army as a broadcaster and public affairs specialist. During her career, she reported for Fox News, produced shows for worldwide audiences, and served in executive positions. She also does freelance work for several companies.
Vega founded nonprofit, Good Deed Revolution, to promote mental health and suicide prevention. Her current campaign is Promise2Live whose goal is to create a viral movement that empowers individuals to make a promise, whether or not they are struggling, that if they EVER feel sad, depressed, hopeless or suicidal that they will reach out to a friend, family member, a trusted resources or call or text 988!
Promise2Live collaborates with Silicon Slopes to increase awareness of mental health issues and suicide through a series of town halls at Silicon Slopes headquarters in Lehi, Utah.