In this episode of First Round’s On Me, we unpack the lost art of making and keeping friendships in adulthood. From the three people everyone needs in their life — the Anchor, the Expander, and the Mirror — to why adult friendships feel harder than dating, we explore how connection has shifted in the age of social media.We talk about connection fatigue vs. connection famine, why the disappearance of “third spaces” (cafes, bars, community hubs) has made us lonelier, and how friendships mirror the same awkward first hangs and overthinking that come with dating.If you’ve ever wondered why your social life feels stagnant, or you’re craving deeper connections, this episode is your reminder: quality beats quantity.💬 Let us know in the comments: Which role do you need most in your life right now — an Anchor, an Expander, or a Mirror?00:00 – Where do your friendships actually live?00:19 – The three people you need in your life01:22 – Defining the Anchor, Expander, and Mirror03:17 – Which role would you play for others?03:27 – Quality vs. quantity in friendships04:05 – Social media “friends” vs. real friends05:24 – Viral validation vs. real connection06:16 – Treating friendship like dating07:07 – Why friendships require intention07:29 – Experiencing life beyond your partner08:33 – Is making friends harder than dating?09:49 – Why older adults resist new friendships11:04 – Connection fatigue vs. connection famine12:08 – Shifts in social priorities over time13:35 – Finding balance in social interactions14:25 – Third spaces as hubs of connection15:14 – Why younger generations avoid clubbing16:38 – Nostalgia for “home away from home” spaces17:48 – Do your friendships live online?18:09 – Finding the Anchor, Expander, and Mirror19:05 – Final reminder: seek quality connection19:37 – Outro & subscribe