Join The Joiners

The Spark File with Susan Blackwell and Laura Camien

Lately it feels like so many of us are longing for belonging, but finding it harder than to connect. But why? In this week’s episode of The Spark File podcast, we dig in to find the answer.

Join us as Laura examines the work of social scientist Bob Putnam, whose book Bowling Alone: the Collapse and Revival of American Community connects the decline of American social organizations, guilds, and community spaces with an increase in isolation and a greater political and personal divide. The 2023 Netflix Documentary Join or Die, which digs into the “half-century story of America’s civic unraveling,” re-examined Putnam’s work with a lens on contemporary struggles.

Turns out the answer is pretty simple: we need to reconnect in a meaningful way. Maybe you’re looking for a service organization, a community center, or a coaching community (like this one!) Wherever you can find (or rediscover) community, you might also find a greater sense of belonging. These connections are how we move through the most significant individual and collective problems. Listen on to hear our thoughts on how we move forward toward reconnecting in measurable and meaningful ways. As far as we’re concerned, it’s time to join the club!

Chapters

1. The Spark File Podcast (00:00:00)

2. The Power of Community and Democracy (00:06:13)

3. The Importance of Building Community (00:22:00)

4. Igniting Creative Sparks (00:30:17)