In this episode of Deep Work Out Loud, host Julie Harris Oliver sits down with Dr. Lauren Collier, a professional coach and founder of the Friendship Project. They discuss the challenges and strategies for forming meaningful adult friendships, particularly for women experiencing life transitions. Dr. Collier shares her journey from social work to coaching and introduces her initiative to create intentional friendship circles. Through an eight-week learning journey, she aims to facilitate deeper connections and combat social isolation. The discussion covers the importance of alignment, affinity, and shared experiences in building lasting relationships. The episode also touches on the impact of the pandemic on social skills and the importance of intentionality and openness in fostering friendships.

00:00 Introduction to Deep Work Out Loud

00:39 Meet Dr. Lauren Collier

01:09 Lauren's Journey to Coaching

02:15 The Importance of Adult Friendships

02:48 Challenges in Making New Friends

04:11 The Loneliness Epidemic

04:58 Key Elements for Building Friendships

05:40 Cultural and Political Barriers

06:48 Intentional Friendship Building

09:46 Lauren's Friendship Circles Initiative

14:01 The Impact of the Pandemic on Friendships

17:12 Practical Steps for Building Friendships

20:16 Challenges and Solutions in Friendship Building

28:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

Find Lauren HERE

Find Julie HERE