Feeling lonely or disconnected? Learn how to make friends as an adult and build intentional friendships through Connection Feast with guest Alexandra Friedman.

In this episode, I’m joined by Alexandra Friedman, founder of Connection Feast, a community-building company that hosts intentional gatherings to spark real, lasting connection. What started as a personal response to loneliness after a breakup and move back to Seattle has now grown into a thriving event series helping people cultivate emotional intimacy in friendship and create community as adults.

We talk about how to make friends as an adult — including the role of vulnerability, the art of hosting themed dinner parties, and how small, consistent actions (à la Atomic Habits) lead to big connection over time. You’ll also hear why “structured play” helps adults feel safe opening up, and how letting go of expectations can shift how we experience the people in our lives.

Whether you're navigating loneliness after a move, craving more meaningful community, or want to start building intentional friendships, this is a conversation full of realness, hope, and practical takeaways. Tune in — and stay tuned for part two of this deep (and fun) chat!

In this episode you’ll hear about:

• How Connection Feast helps adults make friends through structured, playful gatherings
• What it really means to build intentional friendships
• Why adult friendship requires emotional intimacy and vulnerability
• How to let go of unrealistic expectations in friendships
• The power of “social art” and themed dinner parties
• Creating connection even when life paths and schedules differ
• How to shift from loneliness to community, one small habit at a time

Guest: Alexandra Friedman

Alexandra is the founder of Connection Feast, a Seattle-based (and now global) community organization that creates intentional spaces for people to connect more deeply through in-person and virtual events. She has hosted over 100 events bringing together 1,000+ people. Follow Alex on Instagram at @connectionfeast

Key Quotes:

• "You never know who’s going to walk in. Let go of the timeline and follow the wave." — Alexandra Friedman, [22:42]
• "Building intentional friendships doesn’t mean forcing connection — it means creating space for it." — Alexandra Friedman, [8:15]

Mentioned in this episode:

• EP3: The 4 Types of Friends and Why They All Matter
• Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear (affiliate link)
• Learn more at Connection Feast

Resources & Links

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

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!