Loneliness in a Connected World: Why Social Media Can’t Replace Real Connection

In an era of constant connection, why do so many people feel more alone than ever?

Licensed counselor Jesse Miller and holistic practitioner Beth Cantier join I’ll Get the Tip to unpack the hidden epidemic of loneliness, the impact of social media on real human relationships, and how the pandemic changed the way we define being “social.”

From personal stories to practical advice for parents, teens, and anyone struggling with isolation — this conversation goes deep into what it really means to connect in today’s world.

🧠 Topics Covered:

• The difference between loneliness and being alone

• How social media fuels comparison and disconnection

• The pandemic’s role in reshaping our social habits

• Why kids (and adults) need real-world connection more than ever

• Strategies to foster authentic community and self-connection

💬 If you’ve ever felt alone in a crowded room, this episode is for you.

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#Loneliness #SocialMedia #MentalHealth #PandemicLife #Connection #Relationships #SocialAnxiety #MentalWellness #ParentingTips #selfcare

Timestamps (Chapters)

0:00 – The illusion of being “social” online

0:24 – Introducing guests Jesse Miller & Beth Cantier

1:20 – Holistic healing meets counseling: different paths to connection

2:43 – Veterans, identity, and loneliness in different life stages

4:35 – Is loneliness an epidemic?

6:16 – The truth about being “the life of the party” but feeling alone

7:44 – How the pandemic fueled isolation

8:49 – Social media metrics vs. real connection

9:56 – Loneliness in high-intensity professions (military, first responders)

11:19 – Searching for authentic community after COVID

12:29 – Why we shouldn’t be “lone wolves”

13:36 – Fear of opening up in today’s social climate

14:45 – How “social” became “social media”

16:28 – Growing up pre-smartphone vs. today’s 24/7 online world

#Loneliness #SocialMedia #MentalHealth #PandemicLife #Connection #Relationships #SocialAnxiety #MentalWellness #ParentingTips #SelfCare

17:38 – Adults aren’t immune to social comparison

18:32 – Parenting in the age of screens

20:04 – How kids learn social habits from us

22:18 – Peer pressure amplified by technology

24:08 – Why communication and safe spaces matter for kids

25:50 – Trusting your intuition as a parent or mentor

27:48 – The lost role of community in teaching life lessons

28:54 – Why some parents block community accountability

29:33 – Wrapping part one — to be continued in part two

🥃 Sponsored by Litchfield Distillery + Post University

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