#281 Loneliness and the Power of Radical Listening with Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener
In today’s expert episode, I’m joined by Dr. Robert Biswas Diener, pioneer in positive psychology and co-author of the book “Radical Listening.” We dive into the power of radical listening—what it actually looks like, why it’s so hard to practice during breakups, and how improving your listening skills can radically change how you process heartbreak and receive support. Dr. Robert and I talk about why loneliness is so prevalent right now, how to coach your friends and family to be better listeners, and why so many people feel misunderstood during a split. We also dig into why it’s important to understand your motives when you’re listening—or when you’re sharing—and how to ask for the kind of support you need, whether that’s to be heard, hugged, or helped. Plus, we cover what to do when you have to listen to things you really don’t want to hear (like “I don’t want to be in this relationship anymore”) and how so much clarity actually comes from hindsight listening. This conversation is packed with practical advice for anyone navigating heartbreak, wanting to be a better support system, or looking to have healthier conversations—breakup or not.