Best How To Feel Less Lonely Podcasts (2025)

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#149: He Was His Parents’ Therapist Until It Broke Him | Cole 54:45

1d ago54:45

54:45

What happens when you become your parents’ emotional confidant—their therapist—during a divorce? At first, it might feel like you’re helping. But eventually, it backfires and might even break you. That’s what happened to Cole. In this episode, we explore: How he went through his parents’ separation twice—and how each one affected him differently Ho…

1
234. Toxic Positivity and Spiritual Bypassing Are Hurting Us 55:24

1d ago55:24

55:24

Send us a text "Just be positive." "Everything happens for a reason." These phrases might sound helpful—but they often shut people down instead of lifting them up. Toxic positivity and spiritual bypassing are everywhere, from coaching circles to everyday conversations. And they're doing more harm than we realize. Join Anna and Tim as they dive deep…

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Finding Meaning In The New Age of Anxiety 1:13:54

4d ago1:13:54

1:13:54

The world doesn’t make a lot of sense right now, including other people and why they think the things they think and do the things they do. So I’m tapping in Steven J. Heine, professor of Social and Cultural Psychology and the author of Start Making Sense: How Existential Psychology Can Help Us Build Meaningful Lives in Absurd Times to talk about: …

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233. How to Actually Support a Friend in Hard Times 46:49

9d ago46:49

46:49

Send us a text When someone close to you is facing illness, divorce, financial loss, or deep stress, what do you say? What do you do? Most people either avoid the conversation entirely—or say the wrong thing with the right intentions. Join Anna and Tim as they walk through what it really means to show up well for someone going through a hard time. …

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Marvel's Thunderbolts Movie Wrecked Me More Than I Expected (Reaction) 18:47

9d ago18:47

18:47

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! I love superhero movies, but Marvel's new Thunderbolts movie hit different. I was stunned by what the secret theme and message of the movie was all about, and I'm giving my full reaction in this episode. Support the show Remember, you're worth having and building rich friendships! The connection you’ve been…

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Pep Talks 2 59:02

11d ago59:02

59:02

Last week’s pep talk episode (https://noraborealis.substack.com/p/stop-being-mean-to-yourself) was such a hit we’re back with more (and I’m making some phone calls today because WOW WE ARE ALL GOING THROUGH IT RIGHT NOW!!!) Today we have two callers: a 32-year-old who feels lost after losing both of her parents and receiving a tough diagnosis, and …

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232. Postpartum Rage and the Shame That Silences It 41:35

16d ago41:35

41:35

Send us a text Postpartum depression gets attention—but postpartum rage? Not so much. It’s a deeply real, deeply common experience, yet so many mothers suffer through it in silence, wrapped in shame and confusion. Join Anna and Tim for a raw, vulnerable conversation about the overlooked reality of postpartum rage. They unpack the emotional and biol…

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What It’s Like to Be a Brain Surgeon, with Dan Heath 52:52

16d ago52:52

52:52

Sharing an episode of “What It’s Like to Be…” from author Dan Heath. On the podcast, Dan explores the world of work, one profession at a time, and interviews people who love what they do. He finds out: What does a couples therapist think when a friend asks for relationship advice? Is a Secret Service Agent supposed to pretend like they’re not there…

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#148: Why You're Anxious, Tired, & Sick—and What to Do About It | Jackie Mulligan 40:13

17d ago40:13

40:13

So many of us feel depleted and exhausted, yet we might not know why. This is especially true for those of us from divorced or broken families. Research shows that children of divorce typically have worse physical health and more emotional problems. But thankfully, that doesn’t have to be your story. Going from depleted to healthy on every level is…

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Her Parents Skipped Her Wedding(Estrangement) 51:12

17d ago51:12

51:12

Estrangement is one of those hot button topic that everyone has an opinion about, and here’s mine: you have one job as a parent1, and that’s to love your children. To show up for them. To support them. To not ditch out on their wedding LIKE A TOTAL WEIRDO. Are things more complicated than that? Sure, people are complicated. But on this show I let y…

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231. How to Stop Feeling Lonely 45:29

23d ago45:29

45:29

Send us a text Loneliness is more than a bad feeling—it’s now recognized as a global health crisis. But most people don’t know what to actually do about it. Whether you're working remotely, stuck in a life transition, or just feeling disconnected, this episode is for you. Join Anna and Tim as they explore why loneliness is so pervasive, how the pos…

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This is why you're struggling to make friends (& here's how to fix it) 11:18

23d ago11:18

11:18

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! Struggling to make friends? You’re not alone—and it’s not because something is wrong with you. In this episode, we’re unpacking the five sneaky reasons why you might be having trouble building close friendships, and more importantly, what to do about it. Help me (Zoe) get to know YOU (yes, you, the person b…

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8 Essential Tips to Excel in Your First Church Job 23:39

24d ago23:39

23:39

Just started working at a church? Passion isn't enough. So I’m sharing 8 practical tips that every new church staff member needs to know. These aren’t profound theological truths (you need that too), but real-world, behind-the-scenes wisdom that will help you earn trust, avoid rookie mistakes, and thrive in your role from day one. For articles, res…

1
Pep Talks 1:07:11

25d ago1:07:11

1:07:11

Every once in a while, we all need a little bit of solicited motivation from someone totally unqualified to give it. In this episode, Nora shells out loads of love and support in the first of our series of TFA Pep Talks. For full episodes, the full back catalog and a listener community, you can join us here. Want to be on the show? Call or text 612…

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#147: From Athlete to Paralyzed: “It’s the Best Thing That’s Happened to Me” | AJ De La Rosa 59:53

30d ago59:53

59:53

AJ had a normal life as a college student-athlete. But one night, a violent car accident left AJ paralyzed from the waist down. What started as 15 minutes of hell has transformed into what he calls “The best thing that’s happened to me.” In this episode, you’ll hear: The detailed story of the accident and the unexplainable emotions he experienced i…

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230. The Power of Discernment and How to Use It Well 42:22

30d ago42:22

42:22

Send us a text Ever say “yes” to something and immediately regret it? Or get stuck in indecision, second-guessing every option? That’s where discernment comes in—not just decision-making, but learning how to trust your inner clarity while staying grounded in values, data, and wisdom. Join Anna and Tim for a conversation about how to practice discer…

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5 ways to make a great first impression (and become more memorable too) 8:29

1M ago8:29

8:29

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! Struggling with how to make a great first impression? Want to feel more confident when meeting someone new? In this video, you’ll learn five powerful, science-backed ways to make better first impressions, boost your confidence instantly, and stop feeling awkward in social situations. Whether it’s a networki…

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You’re Lonely: What’s the prescription? An Interview with author Julia Hotz, author of The Connection Cure 55:01

1M ago55:01

55:01

What if your doctor prescribed you a hiking group? A ceramics class? Not in place of whatever medication or treatment you may need, but as a complement to it? It’s called Social Prescribing, and journalist Julia Hotz traveled to some 30 countries to talk to patients and professionals who are at the forefront of this approach to wellness. I loved he…

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229. What Healthy Couples Actually Do Part II 40:57

1M ago40:57

40:57

Send us a text It's one thing to want a healthy relationship—it's another to actually build one. In Part II of their deep dive on relationship dynamics, Anna and Tim break down the practical, research-backed habits that make healthy couples thrive. Join Anna and Tim as they explore the concept of "bids for connection" from Gottman theory, how to tu…

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Why We Should All Send More Voice Notes To Friends (Reaction To TIME Article) 19:49

1M ago19:49

19:49

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! If you've ever wondered whether hitting "record" on a voice memo was worth it, this video is your answer. In this heartfelt and insightful reaction, Zoe takes us through a TIME article that argues voice notes aren’t just convenient communication tools—they’re small acts of love. From the very first words, s…

1
Embarrassing Stories 1:02:35

1M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

In this episode, we discuss the defining moments in our lives that forever branded us with shame. For full episodes, the full back catalog and a listener community, you can join us here. Want to be on the show? Call or text 612.568.4441 or book a call here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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#146: 1/3 Less Marriages Today Are Making Us Lonely | JP De Gance 45:15

1M ago45:15

45:15

At the root of our culture’s many problems is the breakdown of marriages and families. My guest shares sobering statistics, such as that “there are 31% less marriages annually now than in the year 2000” and there are “65% less marriages now than in the year 1970.” He says this is hugely contributing to the loneliness crisis today. Thankfully, there…

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228. What Healthy Couples Actually Do Part I 31:04

1M ago31:04

31:04

Send us a text We often hear about what’s going wrong in relationships—but what about what’s going right? The little things that create emotional safety, connection, and long-term satisfaction often go unnoticed. Join Anna and Tim as they break down the habits and mindsets of healthy, loving couples. From emotional regulation to shared laughter and…

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How To Know If You Have A Trustworthy Friend (8 Signs To Watch For!) 12:26

1M ago12:26

12:26

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! Can you really trust them? These signs will reveal someone's true character. In this episode, Zoe shares how to spot the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that someone is truly trustworthy and a safe friend. If you’ve ever questioned someone’s intentions, felt anxious in a friendship, or had your trust broke…

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How Do You Care for Yourself? 36:00

2M ago36:00

36:00

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesBy Feelings & Co.

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227. The People You Don't Like and How to Handle Them Well 39:35

2M ago39:35

39:35

Send us a text Not everyone in your life is going to be easy to get along with—coworkers, family members, or even casual acquaintances can trigger frustration, resentment, or just plain dislike. So how do you deal with difficult people without losing your cool or your integrity? Join Anna and Tim as they unpack real-life strategies for setting boun…

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Angry and Grieving 1:00:14

2M ago1:00:14

1:00:14

Of all the stages of grief, anger has to be the ugliest one. The one that feels the ickiest no matter what side of it you’re on. So today we’re talking about it. For full episodes, the full back catalog and a listener community, you can join us here. Want to be on the show? Call or text 612.568.4441 or book a call here. Learn more about your ad cho…

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#145: Mother Wounds, “Parts Work” Therapy, & Healing from a Broken Family | Dr. Gerry Crete 1:09:51

2M ago1:09:51

1:09:51

Growing up, Dr. Gerry experienced deep turmoil at home. His father was abusive, and his parents’ marriage was full of conflict. When they eventually divorced, he felt like he lost both parents. Feeling alone, he became highly independent. Thankfully, he found healing, and today he helps others heal as a therapist. In this episode, we discuss: How I…

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226. Ghosting—Why People Do It, and What to Do Instead 53:04

2M ago53:04

53:04

Send us a text Ever been ghosted—or ghosted someone yourself? It’s more common than ever, but that doesn’t make it any less painful. Whether it happens in dating, friendships, or the workplace, ghosting leaves confusion and hurt in its wake. Join Anna and Tim as they unpack the psychology behind ghosting, why people avoid hard conversations, and ho…

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Issa Rae on Friendships That Need to Go, from IMO 1:08:13

2M ago1:08:13

1:08:13

Sharing a new show from my friends at Higher Ground, hosted by Michelle Obama, called IMO. You know on Thanks for Asking, we keep it real and help each other through some of our hardest times. Similarly on IMO, Michelle and her big brother Craig Robinson tackle real questions from real folks just like you, offering practical advice, personal storyt…

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Asking Friends For Help (Without Feeling Guilty Or Needy!) 13:19

2M ago13:19

13:19

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! We're tackling a feeling we’ve all had but rarely talk about—what it’s like to need help but feel paralyzed by guilt, fear, or pride. Asking friends for help can feel uncomfortable, awkward, or even shameful. Whether you’re afraid of seeming too needy, being rejected, or coming off as incapable, Zoe shows h…

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Out of The Void, Into The Dating Pool 1:04:15

2M ago1:04:15

1:04:15

In this episode, we get an update from widower David Cherson. This is the first part of a two-part series called Life of a Lonely Widower. For Life of a Lonely Widower (Part 2) and other full episodes, the full back catalog and a listener community, you can join us here. Want to be on the show? Call or text 612.568.4441 or book a call here. Learn m…

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225. How Your Body Holds Stress and What to Do About It 36:41

2M ago36:41

36:41

Send us a text We often focus on the mind when it comes to stress, anxiety, and emotions—but what about the body? From tension in your shoulders to gut-wrenching anxiety, your body is always speaking to you. So how do you listen? Join Anna and Tim as they explore the powerful connection between the body and mental wellness. Learn how body-based pra…

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How Do I Find Time For Adult Friendships? I’m Already Too Busy! 8:26

2M ago8:26

8:26

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! As adults, finding time for friendships can feel impossible. Between work, family, responsibilities, and personal commitments, maintaining social connections often takes a backseat. But research shows that strong friendships are not just a luxury—they’re essential for mental and physical health. In fact, st…

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IGTBO, TFA (Part 2) 1:06:18

2M ago1:06:18

1:06:18

Take a break from the doom and disaster and reset your psyche with some okay things. We won’t ever say “everything is going to be okay” but we will do our best to find and focus on even the littlest okay things around us that aren’t the very worst. Keep the bar low and your head up. For full episodes, the full back catalog and a listener community,…

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224. Why We Doubt Ourselves and How to Rebuild Trust 49:33

2M ago49:33

49:33

Send us a text In a world full of advice, opinions, and social pressures, many of us have lost touch with our own inner knowing. We second-guess our decisions, seek external validation, and struggle to trust ourselves. But what if you could break free from that cycle? Join Anna and Tim as they explore why we’ve lost our sense of self-trust and how …

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#144: The Secret to Not Repeating Your Family’s Dysfunction | Dr. Andrew Abela 48:09

2M ago48:09

48:09

So many of us from divorced or broken families fear repeating our parents' mistakes. If you want to avoid that, one of the keys is building virtue. But what is virtue? How do you build it? And what virtues might you acquire? My guest today wrote Superhabits, an amazing new book on virtue. He answers those questions, plus: How to override the uncons…

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Some Regrets 30:28

2M ago30:28

30:28

I cannot trust anyone who says No Regrets. Because really…you don’t have ANY? NONE?! Are you sure about that? I can tend towards the opposite mentality myself, but in between No Regrets and All Regrets is a safe middle ground of self-reflection and accountability without self-flagellation and rumination, and that is where we met today’s callers, wh…

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223. Developing the Strength & Capacity to Continue Growing, Even When It's Hard 37:38

3M ago37:38

37:38

Send us a text Growth isn’t just about success—it’s about pushing forward, even when everything feels overwhelming. Whether it's career struggles, personal setbacks, or just the exhaustion of always being "strong," we’ve all asked: When does it get easier? Join Anna and Tim as they unpack the mental strength and resilience needed to keep going. Lea…

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How To Go To A Bar Alone & Make Friends With Strangers (Without Looking Creepy!) 18:51

3M ago18:51

18:51

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! Yes, it's possible to go to a bar by yourself and enjoy making friends with strangers (even if you're an introvert like me!) But how do you confidently strike up conversations with strangers without looking creepy? In this episode, I'm sharing real-life strategies that will help you start meaningful convers…

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Creativity, Burnout and Life Beyond Productivity with Maria Bowler 51:31

3M ago51:31

51:31

Rise and Grind, Girlbosses! It’s time to GROWTH HACK your way to your BEST SELF and make this the ULTIMATE year. If you don’t have time, you can make time, because excuses are no excuse. Just kidding! Like so many of us, author Maria Bowler found herself caught up in the Productivity Machine, which demands we do more and more and more for the sake …

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222. How to Handle People & Situations Without Losing Your Cool 41:39

3M ago41:39

41:39

Send us a text Life throws curveballs every day—unexpected situations, difficult people, and moments that make us feel completely out of control. But what if you could handle them without stress, frustration, or anger? Join Anna and Tim as they explore practical strategies to let go of control, stay calm under pressure, and respond to life’s challe…

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What to do when you’re always the friend that initiates (& makes plans) first… 8:39

3M ago8:39

8:39

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! After a while, it gets exhausting and unnerving. We're always the ones making the plans! It makes us feel like our friends don't care about us because...if they did, they would initiate plans sometimes too! Right?! Let's break down what could be going on, and how to navigate this situation in your friendshi…

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#143: When Your Divorced Parent Dies: Grieving, Healing, & Closure | Ben 1:11:16

3M ago1:11:16

1:11:16

After a relapse into alcoholism, Ben’s mom left him, his family, and the country for years when he was just 5 years old. When she returned, he struggled in his relationship with her but placed proper boundaries and found some resolution. But his mom’s death in Ben’s late 20s brought new pain. In this episode, you’ll hear his wild story, plus: The r…

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I Hate My Friend’s Partner…What Do I Do About It? 28:14

3M ago28:14

28:14

Do you say something? Do you shut up? I’m just one woman with an opinion, so I took your calls and texts to answer this listener question: do you say something when your friend is in a relationship with someone you hate? This is a preview of Thanks for Asking, a call-in show about what matters to you. You can get the full episode on my Substack. Ha…

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221. Why Are We Going Low Contact with Family Members? Part II 53:06

3M ago53:06

53:06

Send us a text Cutting ties with family isn’t a decision people take lightly. So why are more Millennials and Gen Z choosing low or no contact? In part two of this episode, Anna and Tim dive into the most common reasons behind family estrangement, the role of emotional intelligence, and how therapy helps in setting boundaries. Is low contact always…

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How To Overcome A Fear Of Rejection In Friendship (From Someone Who Was Rejected 50x) 7:54

3M ago7:54

7:54

Hey fellow loneliness destroyer, text me! It's the worst. We put ourselves out there, only to get so anxious, paranoid, and ultimately risk feeling rejected by someone else. So, when it happens, how do we overcome the fear? And, how can we think about rejection differently so that it doesn't stop us from building meaningful friendships? Let's go! S…

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Worrying, Fresh Retirement and Movie Extras 1:06:18

3M ago1:06:18

1:06:18

If it’s Tuesday, the phone lines are open and operators (me) are standing by. Today we’re talk to callers from Honolulu to North Carolina about everything from worrying to working as an extra on Hallmark movies to existential crises. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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220. Why Are We Going Low Contact with Family Members? Part I 48:18

3M ago48:18

48:18

Send us a text Family relationships can be messy, but what happens when the best choice is creating distance? More and more people, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are choosing low or no contact with family members—and it's sparking major debate. Join Anna and Tim as they dive into the reasons behind this shift, the emotional weight of cutting ti…

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#142: How to Break the Cycle of Your Broken Family 48:35

3M ago48:35

48:35

Has your parents’ divorce or broken family brought pain into your life? Do you fear repeating the cycle of dysfunction or divorce? You’re not alone—millions face these often unspoken struggles: hidden wounds, emotional problems, broken relationships, and destructive habits. Thankfully, you’re not destined to repeat your family’s dysfunction. In thi…

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