Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman
Are You Lonely? Let's Fix That: A Conversation with Joyce Shulman EP 125
01 Oct 2024
In this powerful episode of AGE BETTER, I sit down with Joyce Shulman co-founder of 99 Walks, to tackle one of the most urgent public health crises facing America today: the loneliness epidemic. Recently declared an epidemic by the U.S. Surgeon General, loneliness affects millions of people, particularly those in midlife. Joyce, who is transitioning from leading 99 Walks to focus on building programs aimed at helping women in midlife transitions, brings valuable insights into how we can address this growing issue. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: - The True Impact of Loneliness: Joyce and I explore how loneliness isn't just an emotional issue, but one with significant mental and physical health consequences—comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. - Midlife & Loneliness: Why this phase of life can be especially isolating, and how we can reverse this trend by nurturing social connections. - Practical Steps to Combat Loneliness: Whether it's through building casual friendships, walking together, or becoming more active in your community, Joyce shares actionable ways to reconnect. - The Role of Technology: While social media can offer meaningful connections, it can also amplify feelings of isolation. We explore how to use technology to foster, rather than hinder, real connection. - Why Friendship Requires Effort: Learn why maintaining relationships requires intentionality and action, especially as we age. - Community & Connection: Discover how getting involved in your local community can play a crucial role in combating feelings of loneliness. - The Pandemic’s Role: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social isolation and what we can do to heal from its lingering effects. Whether you’re feeling isolated yourself or looking for ways to help a loved one, this episode offers insights and tools to take the first steps toward building a stronger, more connected life. FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE Be sure to subscribe to AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman for more conversations that help you take charge of your health and well-being as you age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
No persons identified in this episode.
This episode hasn't been transcribed yet
Help us prioritize this episode for transcription by upvoting it.
Popular episodes get transcribed faster
Other recent transcribed episodes
Transcribed and ready to explore now
NPR News: 12-08-2025 2AM EST
08 Dec 2025
NPR News Now
NPR News: 12-07-2025 11PM EST
08 Dec 2025
NPR News Now
NPR News: 12-07-2025 10PM EST
08 Dec 2025
NPR News Now
Meidas Health: AAP President Strongly Pushes Back on Hepatitis B Vaccine Changes
08 Dec 2025
The MeidasTouch Podcast
Democrat Bobby Cole Discusses Race for Texas Governor
07 Dec 2025
The MeidasTouch Podcast
Fox News Crashes Out on Air Over Trump’s Rapid Fall
07 Dec 2025
The MeidasTouch Podcast