In this candid solo conversation, Jess and Rye dive into the complex world of adult friendships — a topic that’s been highly requested by listeners and so relatable to so many of us navigating shifting relationships in adulthood.
From friendship insecurities to vulnerability hangovers, from putting yourself out there to maintaining friendships through life’s busyness — this one’s packed with real talk and practical tips.
👉 Whether you’re craving new connections or struggling with evolving dynamics in your existing circle, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone and give you actionable ideas to cultivate friendships that feel nourishing and aligned.
🔥 Key Topics Covered:
- How to push yourself to meet new friends as an adult — even if you struggle with social anxiety
- Why micro-challenges (like small talk with a barista or ordering first at dinner) help regulate your nervous system and build connection confidence
- How your phone habits may be repelling opportunities for in-person connection (and what to do instead)
- Where to meet new friends: gyms, hobby groups, business communities, faith circles, sound baths, neighborhood walks, and more
- Why masterminds and entrepreneurial groups can lead to deep friendships and powerful support networks
- The “Tribe Called Bliss” concept — building a cast of friends with different roles in your life
- The value of having friendships across different ages and life stages
- How to handle changing friendship dynamics and the pain of poor communication
- When and how to have direct conversations about friendship expectations
- Setting healthy boundaries around your energy and honoring your need to say no without guilt
- Navigating vulnerability hangovers after socializing — and why your quirks are what make you magnetic
- Creative ways to stay connected with long-distance friends (Waffle Wednesday, voice notes, and more)
- The importance of showing support and love for your friends in small ways
- Why you don’t have to be for everyone — and how to embrace your authentic self in friendships
Resources Mentioned:
📚 Book: A Tribe Called Bliss by Lori Harder
Follow The Hosts:
🎧 Podcast IG → @solo2.0podcast
💜 Jess’s IG → @bodyblissbyjess
💜 Rye’s IG → @ryeburch
📩 Email Us → solo2.0podcast@gmail.com
✨ Hormone Testing & Consulting → Your Hormone Balance
🧡 If this episode resonated, be sure to rate + review—it really helps us grow!
⏳ Episode Timestamps:
04:07 - Monthly challenge: meet someone new this month
05:00 - Jess & Rye’s experiences joining new communities
09:45 - Building connection confidence through micro-challenges
12:50 - Phones as connection repellent — shifting habits
17:39 - Where to meet new people as an adult
23:07 - Masterminds, entrepreneur groups & invisible ROI of friendships
28:16 - A Tribe Called Bliss concept & building a friendship cast
30:00 - Valuing friendships across different ages/life stages
34:27 - Handling poor communication and changing friendship dynamics
38:43 - Having direct conversations when friendships feel one-sided
46:45 - Setting boundaries around your time & energy
49:17 - Coping with vulnerability hangovers after social events
53:23 - Staying connected through Waffle Wednesday & ongoing voice notes
