Learn how to overcome busyness, start meaningful conversations, and build lasting adult friendships that enrich both your personal and professional life. In this episode, Stephanie Everett talks with Kat Vellos, author of We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships, about practical ways to form new connections, deepen existing relationships, and create a sense of community. You’ll discover strategies for moving beyond small talk, making the most of your time, and using Kat’s four “seeds of connection” framework to help relationships thrive. 

Kat shares research-backed insights on why friendships matter for well-being, how to integrate connection into your daily life without adding more to your to-do list, and ways to authentically connect with neighbors, colleagues, and acquaintances. Whether you’re looking to expand your circle, reconnect with old friends, or foster deeper ties in your professional network, this conversation offers actionable ideas you can start using today. 

Listen to our other episodes on Careers & Professional Development. 

Episode #572 – Practical Courage Skills Every Lawyer Needs, with Jim Detert (leadership and professional growth) Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #567 – From Quiet to Confident: Redefining Success as an Introverted Lawyer, with Heidi Brown (confidence-building for career success) Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #564 – The Gift in the Struggle: Leveraging Emotional Intelligence for Growth Apple | Spotify | LTN 

Episode #520 – The Truth About Lawyer Self‑Care: Prioritize or Suffer (personal well-being integral to professional longevity) Apple | Spotify | LTN 

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Links from the episode:  

 Learn More about LabCon 

We Should Get Together: The Secret to Cultivating Better Friendships 

Chapters: 

00:56 – Lab Con: Hands-On Business Building for Lawyers 

04:43 – Meet Kat Vellos: Author & Friendship Expert 

08:47 – Why Adults Have Fewer Close Friends Today 

13:44 – Finding Time for Friends & the “Seeds of Connection” 

16:20 – How to Meet Neighbors and Build Local Ties 

18:53 – Moving Beyond Small Talk with Meaningful Questions 

22:49 – Using Conversation Prompts to Connect at Work 

26:30 – Committing to Local Friendships & Staying Connected