Why do people feel alone even in a room full of friends and family?

In the first episode of 2026, Dr. Lawrence Salone breaks down the difference between isolation and withdrawal—and why mixing them up can quietly damage our relationships, confidence, and mental health. Using real-life stories from a holiday gathering (including a surprisingly intense Uno game) and powerful examples from nature, Dr. Lawrence explains how isolation often shows up as “protection”… but is really a sign someone feels vulnerable, disconnected, or “not enough.”

You’ll also hear how phones, doom scrolling, and “interest media” are fueling a national rise in anxiety and disconnection—and why being present is the fastest way to curb isolation. Dr. Lawrence shares practical tools like a 7-day social detox, “replacement therapy,” and the role of coaching, community, and mentorship in building a healthier mindset.

If you’ve ever caught yourself pulling away, checking out, or feeling disconnected—even while surrounded by people—this episode will help you recognize what’s happening and take the next right step.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
What isolation really is (and why it’s not the same as alone time)
The key difference between isolation and intentional withdrawal
How doom scrolling and phone dependency impact relationships and anxiety
Why presence is the antidote—and how to practice it
How detoxing from your phone starts with 7 days (not 30)
Why coaching + community protect you from spiraling thoughts
:headphones: Subscribe for more conversations on faith, empowerment, and freedom—and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder: you don’t have to carry it alone.

Dr Lawrence Salone of mental healthcare clinic PTI and Dr Blake Williamson of The Williamson Eye Center join Amy Irvin on Out to Lunch. On OUT TO LUNCH, host Amy Irvin conducts business interviews over lunch. Baton Rouge has long had a storied history of politics being conducted over meals; now the Capital Region has an equivalent culinary home for business: Mansurs On The Boulevard. Each week, Amy holds court over lunch at Mansurs and invites members of the Baton Rouge business community to join her. You can also hear the show on WRKF 89.3FM.

If you’ve been feeling burnt out… there’s a reason.

In this episode with JP Ngo, owner of Our Mom’s Restaurant & Bar, we unpack the three-step slide into burnout and how to stop it before it takes over. In this episode, Dr. Salone lays out the tools to beat distraction, disappointment, and discouragement.