We’re more connected than ever… and more lonely than ever. Because connected online is very different than connected offline.

In this solo episode, I'm exploring the quiet epidemic of loneliness and why it shows up in places most leaders overlook.

If you’re interested in being successful – whether you’re running a business or working for someone – no matter what your definition of success is… and you want to amplify or upgrade your abilities, this episode is for you. If you’re interested in living longer without having to eat kale and work out two hours a day, seven days a week, this episode is for you.

More than 10 years ago, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy uncovered an epidemic of loneliness in the U.S. What surprised him the most was the degree to which people described feeling lonely. And the diversity of people affected – all genders, all ages, all levels of education and professionalism and wealth.

People were reporting they didn’t feel like they belonged. And people felt embarrassed and ashamed to admit they felt lonely. Because they didn’t want to appear needy or inadequate. Because of course, in America, we’re all about independence and self-sufficiency.

Nothing has changed since then. If anything, these findings have only intensified in the past decade and were especially exacerbated by pandemic times.

When people don’t feel seen, known, or supported, collaboration suffers, trust erodes, and work becomes heavier than it needs to be.

The truth is, humans aren’t designed to operate like machines behind screens all day. Real connection fuels creativity, resilience, and engagement. It also plays a surprising role in how long and how well we live.

If you want a stronger culture, better communication, and a team that actually enjoys working together, this episode will give you a place to start.

Resources:

My Website: https://ZenRabbit.com/
LinkedIn: https://zenrabbit.com/linkedin/
Facebook: https://zenrabbit.com/facebook/
Instagram: https://zenrabbit.com/instagram/
Visit the “FINE is a 4-Letter Word” store at https://zenrabbit.printful.me

Invitation from Lori:

This episode is sponsored by Zen Rabbit.

Smart business leaders know trust is the foundation of every great workplace. And in today’s hybrid and fast-moving work culture, trust isn’t built in quarterly town halls or the occasional Slack message. It’s built through consistent, clear, and HUMAN communication.

Companies and leaders TALK about the importance of connection and community. And it’s easy to believe your organization is doing a great job of maintaining an awesome corporate culture. Because you’ve got annual all-hands and open door policies, and “fun" team-building events.

But let's be real. Leaders who are serious about building real trust are finding better ways to strengthen culture, create connection, and foster community.

That's where I come in. Forward thinking companies are hiring me to produce internal/private podcasts. To bring leadership and employees together through authentic stories, real conversations, and meaningful connections. Think of it as your old-school printed company newsletter - reinvented for the modern workforce. I KNOW, what a cool idea, right?!

If you run, work for, or know of a company that wants to upgrade communication, facilitate connections, build community, and maintain culture, let's chat. Message me at Lori@ZenRabbit dot com.

Because when people feel heard, they engage.

221. Connection Is the Real Life Hack