Theoretically, we are more connected than ever, yet loneliness is a growing crisis. Research shows that social isolation can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. What’s behind this epidemic of disconnection, and what can we do about it?

In this episode, psychiatrist and theologian Dr. Warren Kinghorn joins hosts Marcus Goodyear and Camille Hall-Ortega to explore the medical and theological roots of loneliness. Drawing on his work with veterans, students, and other communities, Dr. Kinghorn offers a powerful perspective on why we struggle to find belonging—and how embracing vulnerability and deep connection can change our lives.

From the impact of social media to the lessons of faith, from the role of community to the surprising effects of shame, this conversation is a hopeful reflection on what it truly means to belong.

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Episode Notes:

• Echoes Magazine feature on Dr. Kinghorn: Loneliness is killing us: Duke University, the University of Aberdeen, and guests explored solutions at a recent Laity Lodge retreat.
• Dr. Warren Kinghorn’s faculty page at Duke University
• Wayfaring: A Theological Journey by Warren Kinghorn
• Surgeon General’s 2023 Report: Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation
• The New York Times: Why Is the Loneliness Epidemic so Hard to Cure? (paywall)
• Pew Research Center: 2025 Religious Landscape Study
• Gallup: Church Attendance Has Declined in Most U.S. Religious Groups
• From the UK: Loneliness minister: “It’s more important than ever to take action”
• From the World Health Organization: Commission on Social Connection
• The Congregational Collective
• Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown
• Madness and Grace by Matthew S. Stanford
• The Soul of Shame by Curt Thompson
• Josef Pieper, German philosopher and author
• Albert Borgmann, philosopher of technology
• Genesis 2-3 (Biblical account of humanity’s brokenness)
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 (The Body of Christ and community)

Production Team:
Written and produced by Marcus Goodyear, Rob Stennett, and Camille Hall-Ortega
Edited by Rob Stennett and Kim Stone
Executive Producers: Patton Dodd and David Rogers
Graphic Design Manager: Hilary Commer

Junior Designer: Lindsay Bruce

Content Creator: Alyson Amestoy

Staff Writer: Elisabeth Avila

Writer: Elizabeth Coffee

Funded by the H. E. Butt Foundation

Special thanks to our guest Dr. Warren Kinghorn for his thoughtful exploration of loneliness, belonging, and mental health.