Friendship IRL: Real Talk About Friendship, Community, and What It Actually Takes

Getting Less Passive and More Active on Podcasts and Social Media With Sharon Walters


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Many times on this podcast, I’ve talked about how powerful virtual connection can be, with the caveat: are you ACTUALLY engaging, or are you just lurking? 

Today we dive into connection through podcasts and social media, emphasizing active over passive consumption. Our guest is Sharon Walters, a coach and author who has made it her mission to transform gratitude from a reaction to an action.

In this episode, Sharon highlights the impact of positive feedback and genuine interactions. She uses social media to build meaningful relationships and supports content creators by sharing their work and closing the loop. 

It’s easy to turn social media and podcasts into passive connections, but actually, they are brimming with opportunities for authentic relationships. There are real people behind the microphones and cameras, and it only helps to show them some love. So give them a like. Send them a message. You might even make a new friend.


In this episode you’ll hear about:

  • What it means to close the loop in virtual connections so that you’re actively participating instead of just lurking
  • The possibility of virtual connection: Sharon’s friendships she’s made through social media or podcasts, and my own
  • My challenge to you: if you’re listening to a podcast, and it’s not one of the chart-toppers, connect with them: send them a message, give them a like
  • The importance of being genuine and authentic in online interactions (and also, the value of positive feedback for content creators)


Resources & Links

Sharon is a business owner, gratitude coach, fitness trainer, and author. Visit her website and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Like what you hear? Visit my website, leave me a voicemail, and follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

Want to take this conversation a step further? Send this episode to a friend. Tell them you found it interesting and use what we just talked about as a conversation starter the next time you and your friend hang out!



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Friendship IRL: Real Talk About Friendship, Community, and What It Actually TakesBy Alex Alexander

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