Episode Description:
In a hyper-connected world, loneliness is quietly becoming one of the greatest public health challenges of our time.

In this episode, Yasmin London and Cassie Roma tackle the Loneliness Epidemic head-on—exploring why so many of us feel disconnected, even in a sea of “followers” and video calls.

Together, they unpack:

• The difference between loneliness and social isolation—and why both matter for our health.

• Why young people, new parents, and hybrid workers are some of the hardest hit.

• How culture, technology, and cost-of-living pressures are erasing the “bump-into-you” moments that once anchored us.

• The risks and opportunities of AI companions, and whether they can ever replace human connection.

• Practical tools—from micro-connections and rituals to workplace strategies—that build true belonging.

This is not a conversation about weakness—it’s a reframing of loneliness as a human signal. Because the antidote isn’t “fitting in” at all costs, it’s belonging. And belonging starts with small acts: a hello, a smile, a moment of presence.

💡 Challenge for listeners: Make one intentional connection this week—and share it with us @FirstMovers.