Authentic Connections
Despair among men is already a global epidemic and increasing at an alarming rate. Even high-functioning “successful” men succumb to substance abuse and even suicide. In fact, 80% of suicides are men. Without the permission, tools, or role models, men don’t talk about their feelings. Instead, they keep silent, suppressing their thoughts and emotions and driving themselves further into isolation. On the Authentic Connections podcast, co-hosts Jeff Singer and Richard Gabel engage in unscripted conversations about topics and issues that men think about but rarely talk about. The goal is to normalize substantive, honest dialogue among men (and their families) to promote connection and wellness. Richard is a psychiatrist, teacher, and Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He and Jeff suggest that men who feel they need assistance should seek help from qualified professionals. The podcast is intended to act as a catalyst for positive change; it is not meant to diagnose, treat, or prescribe. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast to facilitate conversation and inspire action to reduce isolation and loneliness.
Episodes
May 20, 2025
May 20, 2025
25 min
They guys talk about a trip to India that provided perspective and deeply impacted concepts of family, community, and individual purpose.
May 13, 2025
May 13, 2025
25 min
Men don’t reach out to share what they’re going through or to check in on others. We all want and need that connection, so why do we live solitary lives?
May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025
23 min
Men often don’t express their feelings because they are not connected to their own emotions, and it’s no joke. It leads to loneliness, depression, and even violence.
Apr 29, 2025
Apr 29, 2025
23 min
Trust is the foundation of every strong relationship—whether personal or professional. Yet, many men struggle with building and maintaining trust with others
Apr 22, 2025
Apr 22, 2025
20 min
Dive into the age-old question: Are happy people naturally more social, or does being socially engaged lead to happiness?
Apr 15, 2025
Apr 15, 2025
19 min
A fascinating discussion about attachment styles and how they shape our relationships! Men make up the majority of those with an Avoidant attachment style, which means they often disassociate with those closest to them for fear of reprisal. No wonder men are more isolated and lonelier.
READ: Attached by Amir Levine, M.D. and Rachel S.F. Heller, M.A.
Apr 8, 2025
Apr 8, 2025
29 min
Studies show that people who attend religious services tend to be happier, with those practicing Eastern religions/philosophies reporting the highest levels of happiness.
Apr 1, 2025
Apr 1, 2025
24 min
Popular collaborative video games that once provided a sense of community and connection have shifted away from voice chat to anonymous modes - mirroring a wider trend of driving isolation and loneliness.
READ: Silent but Deadly by Luke Winkie
Mar 25, 2025
Mar 25, 2025
28 min
This experiment challenges our traditional notions of happiness, suggesting that happiness is possible even amid life’s challenges.
READ: Can “micro-acts” of joy make you happier? By Emma Beddington
Mar 18, 2025
Mar 18, 2025
23 min
Research shows our attempts to fight boredom through endless scrolling and streaming often leave us feeling more disconnected. The guys talk about how to how to avoid languishing and bringing your best self to everything and everyone in your life.
READ: Fast Forward - How Switching Behavior on Digital Media Makes People More Bored by Dr. Katie Tam