What if we treated friendship with the more intentionality? In this encore episode of the MomForce Podcast, Vanessa Quigley welcomes author and podcaster Laura Tremaine, whose bestselling book The Life Council: 10 Friends Every Woman Needs has helped women everywhere rethink what meaningful connection truly looks like.

Laura shares her wisdom on how to build your personal "life council"—a diverse circle of friends who each offer something unique, from the "fun friend" to the "mentor" to the "battle buddy." Together, Vanessa and Laura explore the real work of friendship, navigating social anxiety, giving ourselves grace for unmet expectations, and even surviving friendship breakups. They talk candidly about how modern life has made connection more difficult—and more vital than ever.

Whether you're deep in friendships or longing for them, this episode is a reminder that we were never meant to do this life alone! 

Since this episode went live Laura has wrapped up her podcast of six years, 10 Things To Tell You, and has launched her new substack where she shares her musings and conversations. 

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8:45 Why you might not have a best friend that covers all your needs 

15:50 Your spouse is not your best friend 

23:20 Using a to-do list to uplevel your relationships 

30:02 How to make friends as an introvert 

33:50 Tips for managing social anxiety 

40:39 Where to make new friends as an adult 

43:15 Do something that is already on the calendar 

47:23 What to navigate friendship breakups