The science behind friendship at work, loneliness, and building a culture of belonging.

SEASON 4:

Foundations of Friendship at Work & Cultures of Connection

Part 1: Foundations of Friendship at Work

Episode 3 — Workplace Wellbeing and Social Connection

We spend more than a third of our lives at work, yet many organizations still treat connection as optional and friendship as a distraction. In this episode of Friendship Matters, we explore why friendship at work is actually one of the strongest drivers of wellbeing, engagement, and performance.

Drawing on research from Gallup, healthcare, and organizational science, we unpack the hidden cost of workplace loneliness and why social connection directly impacts mental health, productivity, retention, and even longevity. This conversation challenges outdated leadership beliefs that prioritize tasks over relationships and shows why wellbeing cannot exist without social health.

Through real stories from leadership, medicine, and coaching, you will hear how small, intentional moments of connection create trust, fuel collaboration, and help people feel seen and valued at work.

In this episode, you will learn:
• Why friendship is a critical part of workplace wellbeing
• How loneliness quietly erodes engagement, creativity, and retention
• What the research really says about having a best friend at work
• How belonging and purpose affect both performance and health
• Simple, practical ways to build connection without forcing it

If you are a leader, HR professional, or anyone who wants work to feel more human without losing focus or results, this episode reframes what truly drives thriving workplaces.

©Friendship Institute 2026

Friendship Matters™ is intended to help improve our Friendship IQ. While this generally signals an improvement in our overall wellbeing, this podcast is not intended in any way to offer specific counseling or medical advice. Please seek help from a trained professional.