Why is studying modern human connection so interesting and important? What is 'the loneliness epidemic', and why are Americans lonelier than ever? (And why are we hardwired to hate the word 'loneliness'?)

Why is improving our national 'social health', that is, our strength and network of relationships, the challenge of our times?

In this foundational episode, we give you the 411 on an emerging and FASCINATING field of study-- social health-- and tease its impact on every aspect of modern American (and global) life.

00:00 Welcome, & fast facts

02:18 Jackie Intro - a therapist's perspective

05:43 Why this matters to us

10:41 Stigma & Cavemen

15:21 The opportunity & challenge before us

22:38 Reframing the problem

25:24 AI chatbots

28:13 A positive vision & call to action