Friend Forward

Why some women rush platonic intimacy in new friendships, with Minaa B.

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

You finally meet someone you click with. You've got things in common, the conversation flows, and suddenly you're ready to tell her everything. But that hunger for closeness in a new friendship can actually push people away before the relationship has a chance to build.

In this episode, Danielle sits down with therapist and author Minaa B. to explore why so many women rush platonic intimacy, what happens when a new friend doesn't match your energy, and how early sibling dynamics can subtly fuel competition and scarcity in adult friendships. Minaa also shares what it actually takes to break the pattern, starting with the self-worth work most of us skip.

🎧 BUT WAIT… THERE'S MORE.

This week's bonus content for Office Hours members includes three original exercises to help you adopt a healthier pace in friendship, created by Danielle herself, plus bonus content from Minaa B. explaining how platonic intimacy can look different from friendship to friendship.

Members of Office Hours get supplementary material like this with every episode to deepen their friendships. Join anytime at: https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/office-hours.

TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:

What oversharing (unintentionally) signals to others
Why some women don’t “match energy” right away
How sibling competition and scarcity show up in adult friendships
Why the sitcom fairy tale of friendship and why it sets you up for disappointment
The secret to taking it slow moving forward

ABOUT MINAA B.

Minaa B. is a licensed social worker, therapist, and author of Owning Our Struggles: A Path to Healing and Finding Community in a Broken World. She created The Siblinghood Theory, a framework for understanding how sibling and peer relationships shape adult connection, belonging, and conflict.

CONNECT WITH MINAA B.:

Podcast, "This Feels Familiar:" https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-feels-familiar-with-minaa-b/id1726002567
Book, Owning Our Struggles: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/707127/owning-our-struggles-by-minaa-b-lmsw/
The Siblinghood Theory: https://www.minaab.com/the-siblinghood-theory
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minaa_b/
Website: https://www.minaab.com

📚 EPISODE RESOURCES & REFERENCES:

Minaa B., Owning Our Struggles: A Path to Healing and Finding Community in a Broken World: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/707127/owning-our-struggles-by-minaa-b-lmsw/

🎙️ GET FEATURED ON THE PODCAST

Have a friendship question, hot take, or personal story you want featured? Send a voice note via Instagram DMs @friendforward or email a voice note or video to hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

WORK WITH DANIELLE BAYARD JACKSON:

Join Office Hours for bonus content and community → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/office-hours
Join the Friendship Elevated Fall 2026 Waitlist → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/friendship-elevated-waitlist
Check out more connection resources → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/resources

FOLLOW DANIELLE BAYARD JACKSON:

Get the book "Fighting for our Friendships" → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/book
Follow on Instagram → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/instagram
Follow on TikTok → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/tiktok
Learn more about Danielle → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/website

🗣️ BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

Looking for a speaker on women's cooperation, communication, and conflict? Send your inquiry to info@tellpublicrelations.com.

I asked women with a lot of friends to share their "social secrets". Here's what they said.

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

You know those women who seem to make friends everywhere they go? Have you ever wondered how they draw people to them so easily?

When Danielle asked her audience about their "social secrets" , more than 500 women responded-- and the patterns were hard to ignore.

In this solo episode, Danielle breaks down six themes that came up over and over again from women who have built large, joyful friendship networks. From the role of proactive initiation to the identity shifts that make connection feel natural, these mindset tips and habits will change your friendships.

🎧 JOIN US FOR BONUS CONTENT IN OFFICE HOURS

Want to go deeper into this work? Members of our Office Hours community get access to bonus material for this episode, including a set of reflection questions to evaluate how your ambition may be impacting your friendships, plus scripts for making new friends when you tend to lead with your accomplishments. Join anytime at: https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/office-hours.

TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:

They initiate first, and don't keep score
They keep expectations low, especially with new and outer-circle friends
They categorize their friends by context instead of lumping everyone together
They have relational diversity, and the research says that makes them happier
They show up authentically, even if it turns some people off
They stay deeply curious about other people
They own their role as the initiator or the planner: identity over willpower

📚 EPISODE RESOURCES & REFERENCES:

Magic Words by Jonah Berger: how identity-based language (nouns vs. verbs) drives behavior: https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Words-Jonah-Berger/dp/0063204932

🎙️ GET FEATURED ON THE PODCAST

Have a friendship question, hot take, or personal story you want featured? Send a voice note via Instagram DMs @friendforward or email a voice note or video to hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

WORK WITH DANIELLE:

Join Office Hours for bonus content and community → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/office-hours
Join the Friendship Elevated Fall 2026 Waitlist → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/friendship-elevated-waitlist
Check out more connection resources → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/resources

FOLLOW DANIELLE:

Get the book "Fighting for our Friendships" → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/book
Follow on Instagram → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/instagram
Follow on TikTok → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/tiktok
Learn more about Danielle → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/website

🗣️ BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

Looking for a speaker on women's cooperation, communication, and conflict? Send your inquiry to info@tellpublicrelations.com.

Venting, co-rumination, and trauma dumping: what's the difference and where do we draw the line?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Venting used to just be what friends did. Now it feels like a social minefield; and we can't seem to agree on whether it's a sign of closeness or a boundary violation. You've probably caught yourself mid-vent wondering, am I being too much right now? Or maybe you're on the other side, nodding along while silently drowning in your friend's update about her boss for the fourth time this month.

Danielle sits down with licensed therapist Amanda White, the voice behind @therapyforwomen and co-host of the Nuance Needed podcast, to break down what's actually happening when we vent, when it tips into co-rumination or trauma dumping, and why we've gotten so weird about a friendship behavior that used to be second nature. If you've ever wondered whether you're allowed to bring your hard stuff to your friends anymore, this one's for you.

🎧 JOIN US FOR BONUS CONTENT IN OFFICE HOURS

TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:

Venting vs. co-rumination vs. trauma dumping: what's actually different
Why venting doesn't reduce anger but still strengthens friendships
How our shrinking tolerance for discomfort is eroding connection
The "catch-up loop": when seeing friends rarely turns every hangout into a vent session
The anti-venting and anti-gossip overlap, and why both have historically protected women
Why you can't hold space for a friend if you can't sit with your own hard feelings
What both the chronic venter and the vent-avoider need to hear

ABOUT AMANDA

Amanda E. White is a licensed therapist, bestselling author of Not Drinking Tonight, and the founder of Therapy for Women Center. She is the creator of the popular Instagram account @therapyforwomen (463K+ followers) and co-host of the podcast Nuance Needed with Sam Dalton. Amanda's work challenges quick-fix mental health culture and explores the messy gray areas most content creators avoid.

CONNECT WITH AMANDA:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapyforwomen/
Podcast, Nuance Needed: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuance-needed/id1769274006
Substack, Nuance Needed: https://nuanceneeded.substack.com/
Website: https://amandaewhite.com
Therapy for Women Center: https://therapyforwomencenter.com

📚 EPISODE RESOURCES & REFERENCES:

Julie Beck, "The Common Friendship Behavior That Has Become Strangely Fraught" (The Atlantic, January 2026): https://www.theatlantic.com/family/2026/01/venting-complaining-advice/685529/
Kjærvik & Bushman (2024), "A meta-analytic review of anger management activities that increase or decrease arousal: What fuels or douses rage?" — Clinical Psychology Review: https://news.osu.edu/breathe-dont-vent-turning-down-the-heat-is-key-to-managing-anger/
The Gottman Institute on the 5:1 "Magic Ratio:" https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-magic-relationship-ratio-according-science/

🎙️ GET FEATURED ON THE PODCAST

Have a friendship question, hot take, or personal story you want featured? Send a voice note via Instagram DMs @friendforward or email a voice note or video to hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

WORK WITH DANIELLE:

Join Office Hours for bonus content and community → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/office-hours
Join the Friendship Elevated Fall 2026 Waitlist → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/friendship-elevated-waitlist
Check out more connection resources → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/resources

FOLLOW DANIELLE:

Get the book "Fighting for our Friendships" → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/book
Follow on Instagram → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/instagram
Follow on TikTok → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/tiktok
Learn more about Danielle → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/website

🗣️ BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

Looking for a speaker on women's cooperation, communication, and conflict? Send your inquiry to info@tellpublicrelations.com.

When ambition makes friendship harder: how high-achieving women can bridge the gap between success and connection

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

You're driven, you're accomplished, and you've got no shortage of people in your life. So why do your closest friendships still feel like something's missing? In this episode, Danielle sits down with executive coach Monique R. Shields to unpack the ways ambition can quietly erode the depth and quality of women's friendships, even when your social calendar is full.

Together, they explore three areas where high-achieving tendencies show up in our platonic relationships: vulnerability (and how self-reliance can block intimacy), identity (and the trap of leading with your "utility" in friendships), and presence (and why getting still with a friend feels so uncomfortable when you're wired to always be doing). Monique also shares a practical reframe for the woman who wants deeper connection but doesn't know where to start.

🎧 JOIN US FOR BONUS CONTENT IN OFFICE HOURS

TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:

The self-reliance that fuels professional success can quietly block the vulnerability friendships actually need
High-achieving women often know plenty of people but still feel unseen — because their relationships are built around utility, not intimacy
Leading with your "achiever identity" trains people to see you as the strong one, then you resent them for it
Stillness with a friend feels impossible when you can't even get still with yourself
Monique's reframe: if being relied on brings you joy, you might be robbing your friends of that same joy by never letting them in

ABOUT MONIQUE

Monique R. Shields is an executive coach and host of the Ambition Without Compromise podcast. She works with high-capacity women of color CEOs and leaders, navigating what comes after achievement. Trained in Co-Active coaching with experience at Stanford GSB and UC Berkeley Haas, she brings nearly a decade of leadership development to the conversation.

CONNECT WITH MONIQUE:

Learn more about Monique's program CLAIMED: a private coaching accelerator for accomplished women leaders who are ready to grow beyond corporate or institutional success and build the visibility, thought leadership, income, and self-trust to shape their next career chapter on their own terms. Cohorts open 2x/year. Join the interest list to learn more about the June cohort here.
Podcast, “Ambition Without Compromise:” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ambition-without-compromise/id1678404545
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@moniquershields?si=FvD-3GH13ACy1Bhn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniquershields/
Website: https://moniquershields.com

📚 EPISODE RESOURCES & REFERENCES:

Trevor Noah on “liming: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/hNZSSRe4rlw

🎙️ GET FEATURED ON THE PODCAST

Have a friendship question, hot take, or personal story you want featured? Send a voice note via Instagram DMs @friendforward or email a voice note or video to hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

WORK WITH DANIELLE:

Join Office Hours for bonus content and community → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/office-hours
Join the Friendship Elevated Fall 2026 Waitlist → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/friendship-elevated-waitlist
Check out more connection resources → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/resources

FOLLOW DANIELLE:

Get the book "Fighting for our Friendships" → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/book
Follow on Instagram → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/instagram
Follow on TikTok → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/tiktok
Learn more about Danielle → https://friend-forward.captivate.fm/website

🗣️ BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

Looking for a speaker on women's cooperation, communication, and conflict? Send your inquiry to info@tellpublicrelations.com.

Why making friends in your 30s feels impossible (and how you can make it happen anyway)

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Why does friend-making feel especially challenging in our 30s? In this episode, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson explores the unique challenges women face when making new friends in their 30s, offering practical strategies tailored to busy, depleted women.

Drawing on recent research and personal insights, she shares:

4 unique challenges of this particular decade
friend-making strategies from other listeners
3 evidence-based ways to attract new friends (when you're short on time and energy)

JOIN OFFICE HOURS AND GET *MORE*

Members of our private $9 Office Hours community will receive bonus material, including a "gathering kit" to help you host a lowkey gathering for new friends you're meeting in your 30s.

NEW: On Thursday, March 26, members can join our fireside chat with former NYT "friendship correspondent" Anna Goldfarb, author of the book Modern Friendship. Talk at 1:00pm EST. Learn 4 strategies for maintaining friendships as a tired woman. Join now (with a free trial!) to attend.

Join NOW for a 14 FREE TRIAL!!!!!

https://www.betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

GET DANIELLE'S BOOK

Grab your copy of Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships.

Want to see other (fiction) friendship books releasing this spring? Check-out our latest roundup at betterfemalefriendships.com/articles.

INVITE DANIELLE TO SPEAK AT YOUR EVENT

If you're looking for a speaker to share the research about women's cooperation, communication, and conflict, invite Danielle Bayard Jackson for your event. Learn more about her work, experience, and services at daniellebayardjackson.com. Then send your speaking inquiry to info@tellpublicrelations.com today.

Why you feel anxious about inviting people over (and how to fix it) with Ashlee Gadd, Author and Founder of Coffee and Crumbs and Friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 22:00:00 -0400

You want to host more often, but you're anxious about having people over. Why? (And how do you fix it?)

In this interview with Ashlee Gadd, founder of Coffee and Crumbs and co-author of You're In Good Company: The Gift of Friendship, Motherhood, and Showing Up, you'll learn:

3 common fears about hosting in your home (and how to get over them)
2 ideas for lowkey gatherings
how to bridge the gap between Pinterest-worthy hangs and pajama-themed get-togethers

JOIN OFFICE HOURS AND GET *MORE*

Members of our private $9 Office Hours community will receive bonus material (6 extra minutes!) from this episode, a bonus "lowkey hang" idea, and an excerpt from Ashlee's book.

Join NOW for a 14 FREE TRIAL!!!!!

https://www.betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

GET ASHLEE'S BOOK

Get Ashlee's book "You're in Good Company" here: https://www.coffeeandcrumbs.net/book/

INVITE DANIELLE TO SPEAK AT YOUR EVENT

The secret language of humor in women's friendships// Interview with comedy writer Nadia Casey and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 22:00:00 -0400

Research finds that shared humor is a predictor of women becoming best friends... but it's not a predictor for men. Why is that? In this week's episode of the Friend Forward podcast, friendship expert and relational health educator Danielle Bayard Jackson interviews Nadia Casey .

Nadia is a comedy coach and comedy writer who teaches people how to be funny for a living, and in this episode, she shares how your humor reveals your values, invites like-minded people to your life, and functions as a bonding agent.

She also teaches exactly how to be funnier in aw ay to connect with new potential friends.

JOIN NADIA'S WORKSHOP

This workshop is for people who want to learn to be naturally funnier in real life situations with other people. it'll be perfect to learn tactical strategies to increase playfulness and connection. March 19, 2026. Register here.

ACCESS BONUS CONTENT

As a member of our private digital community, you'll get BONUS content which includes Nadia's favorite shows, a strategy for bouncing back after a joke doesn't land, and links to three of her favorite "bits". Join now at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

READ "FIGHTING FOR OUR FRIENDSHIPS" WITH YOUR BOOK CLUB

Grab your copy of Danielle Bayard Jackson's Fighting for our Friendships to read and discuss with your next book club.

BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

What role does commitment play in friendship? The "Rusbult Investment Model" might explain why your close friendships don't last

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0400

Is "commitment" a concept that only applies to romantic relationships? What role does it play in friendships when these are completely elective relationships unbound with contract and formal obligations?

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host and women's friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson explores what it looks like to "promise before the preview."

Want more?

Members of "Office Hours" (our digital community) will enjoy access to the bonus: an extended discussion, including:

an extra video explaining the difference in the types of investments you can make in friendship
a "close read" of an article that explains the formula for satisfaction
bonus reflection questions and connection questions to inspire conversation with friends about friendship commitment

WANT TO BE FEATURED ON THE SHOW?

Send your questions, hot takes, or personal friendship stories via Instagram @friendforward (go the to direct messages, hold the microphone icon down and proceed with your voice note) or send a video/ voice note to us via email at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

BRING THIS CONVERSATION TO YOUR ORGANIZATION

If you're looking for a customized, research-driven experience with a balance of education and humor, book Danielle Bayard Jackson to speak at your upcoming event. To make it happen, contact us at info@tellpublicrelations.com and inquire today.

Yes, your friend's comments about her body will impact the way you view your own. Here's what the research says. An interview with Chrissy King of the Body Liberation Project, and Dr. Erin Nolen, researcher and assistant professor at the University of Arkansas

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson explores the impact of close friendships on body image. She speaks with Chrissy King, author of The Body Liberation Project.

Danielle also invites researcher and assistant professor Dr. Erin Nolen about the way women's feminist ideals positively impact their friends' regard for their bodies.

You'll also hear from real women who submitted their personal stories to the show.

Research study: Dr. Nolen's research “Your Body Is Not Representative of Who You Are”: Exploring the Relations Between Feminist Attitudes, Feminist Identity, and Responses to Negative Body Talk Among Women - Erin Nolen, Taryn A. Myers, Adrienne Kvaka, Sarah K. Murnen, 2023

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GET BONUS CONTENT IN "OFFICE HOURS", OUR PRIVATE COMMUNITY

Get bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content, book club membership, access to (exclusive!) fireside chats with experts, downloadable guides and more in our private community. Join now at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

WANT TO BE FEATURED ON THE SHOW?

BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

If you're looking for a customized, research-driven experience with a balance of education and humor, book Danielle Bayard Jackson to speak at your upcoming event. To make it happen, contact Samantha at Sam@tellpublicrelations.com and inquire today.

Friendship Surveillance: Are we obsessed with tracking each other? A conversation with tech writer Tatum Hunter and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

This conversation explores the complex relationship between surveillance and friendships in the digital age. This includes the habit of sharing locations with friends, monitoring social media activity and turning on features like "read receipts"-- all things that allow us to monitor each other's activity.

Host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson interviews Tatum Hunter-- a technology and culture writer, formerly of the Washington Post.

Together, Tatum and Danielle explore the ways in which technology impacts our connections and the emotional consequences of monitoring each other's lives.

This conversation will also highlight the benefits and drawbacks of location sharing, the role of social media in shaping perceptions of closeness.

Members of the private "Office Hours" community will receive the full episode, which includes Tatum's predictions for emerging trends in digital privacy.

TikTok videos highlighted in this episode:

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8xdjjE3/

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8xeKyhe/

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FRIENDSHIP ELEVATED

Would you like a supportive community and personal friendship coach to walk with you over the next few months? You have two days left to join Friendship Elevated, our group coaching program. Learn more at betterfemalefriendships.com

WANT TO BE FEATURED ON THE SHOW?

BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

If you're looking for a customized, research-driven experience with a balance of education and humor, book Danielle Bayard Jackson to speak at your upcoming event. To make it happen, contact Samantha at Sam@tellpublicrelations.com and inquire today.

4 things your newly divorced friend wishes you knew // a conversation with Oona Metz, author of Unhitched

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 22:00:00 -0400

Whether your friend is newly divorce or considering divorce, she'll likely expect you to provide emotional support throughout her journey. But the hard truth is that many women are falling short in the ways that they show up. In this conversation with Oona Metz, author of "Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women" a therapist who's been facilitating divorce groups for women for over 30 years, she'll share 4 myths about beliefs concerning friends who are going through this kind of painful separation.

And if this episode isn't enough, become a member of Office Hours where we've posted extended content so you can enjoy more of Oona's gems on divorce, social support, and friendship expectations.

Become a member any time at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

2026 GROUP COACHING

We're launching the sixth cohort of Friendship Elevated in February 2026. Those on the waitlist will gain access to "early bird" pricing. Join the waitlist at betterfemalefriendships.com/friendship-elevated

You don't need MORE friends this year-- you need THIS instead. // The 5 components of social connection with friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0400

Okay, well maybe you DO need new friends, but for many of us, that's not the primary reason we're feeling disconnected. There are four other components-- some quantifiable, others that are more subjective-- and simply knowing about each component can help you to position yourself to get more of the social and relational satisfaction that you're looking for.

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THANK YOU!

Thank you to Mel Robbins for naming Danielle Bayard Jackson as one of your "Top 9 Experts of 2025"! We appreciate you.

If you'd like to book Danielle to speak at your event or hire her to for consulting or curriculum design, please contact us at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

OFFICE HOURS

The conversation doesn't end when the podcast is over. Become a member of our "Office Hours" community and get access to bonus episodes, resources, and virtual events. Sign-up any time at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

2026 GROUP COACHING

Only want a single, one-off session? Book yours now (for a limited time!) at betterfemalefriendships.com/coaching

What we get wrong about "friendship audits" (and 8 signs that you might need one NOW)

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, we discuss the concept of friendship audits, emphasizing the importance of evaluating not just who to cut off from your life, but also the overall dynamics, practices, and satisfaction within friendships.

In this episode, we outline eight signs that indicate it's time for a formal and intentional friendship audit and encourage listeners to take a comprehensive look at their friendship landscape. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in self-reflection and consider coaching options for deeper support.

Resource: For tip #3 in today's podcast, Danielle mentions a free resource to help you with the activity that she described. You'll find that resource here at betterfemalefriendships.com/dynamics

Host: Danielle Bayard Jackson, Women's friendship expert and relational health educator

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THANK YOU!

Thank you to Mel Robbins for naming Danielle one of the Top Experts of 2025! We appreciate you.

If you'd like to book Danielle to speak at your event or hire her to for consulting or curriculum design, please contact us at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

OFFICE HOURS

2026 GROUP COACHING

How to Protect Yourself from the Loneliness Industrial Complex

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Why does it feel like everyone's marketing their products and services as the solution for loneliness?

The Loneliness Epidemic became a mainstream conversation in 2023 after then-Surgeon General Vivek Murthy made loneliness his top public health priority. And while that led to many helpful changes, it was also a moment that products, services, and tech companies began to exploit.

In this episode, Danielle Bayard Jackson teaches three things you should know to help you understand loneliness more deeply so that you can begin to differentiate between the things are genuinely help and those that are... not.

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THANK YOU!

Thank you to the organizations who most recently hired Danielle Bayard Jackson to partner with them either as a keynote speaker or a partner in designing their programming and curriculum: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, The Loveland Foundation with Rachel Cargle, Hoda Kotb's new Joy 101 app, and various sororities across the country. We appreciate you.

If you'd like to book Danielle to speak at your event or hire her to for consulting or curriculum design, please contact us at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

OFFICE HOURS

2026 GROUP COACHING

We're launching the sixth cohort of Friendship Elevated in February 2026. Those on the waitlist will gain access to "early bird" pricing. Join now at betterfemalefriendships.com/friendship-elevated

The "Three C's" of staying friends when life transitions pull you apart

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Whether you're having a baby, adopting a new worldview, or navigating a divorce, you'll find your friendships shifting by extension. Despite the history and affection we have for our friends, changing life circumstances can threaten to pull us away from one another. While some friendships may need to end, others just need a little creativity. In this episode, host Danielle Bayard Jackson shares the "three C's" of staying friends when life transitions change the way you relate to one another.

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"OFFICE HOURS" PRIVATE COMMUNITY

Want to claim the bonus resources for this episode (as well as gain access to bonus episodes, resources, and virtual events)? Become a member at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

GROUP COACHING 2026

The waitlist for our Friendship Elevated Group Coaching Program is open (the program kicks off on Galentine's Day 2026). Exclusive rates available ONLY to those who are on the waitlist. Join now at betterfemalefriendships.com.

BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

Want to bring these conversations to your organization, campus, or business group? Reach out to our team at info@tellpublicrelations.com (and download Danielle's speaking kit here).

Social clubs are trending on Google search. What does that mean (and how do you find the right one for you)?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward Podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson unpacks a recent Google search that is taking over: social clubs.

She discusses the differences between social clubs, which focus on socialization, and private members clubs, which often offer exclusive experiences. Danielle also provides insights into how to find the right social club for your individual needs and shares statistics on social engagement and loneliness in America.

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"OFFICE HOURS" PRIVATE COMMUNITY

Want to hear the extended version of this episode (as well as gain access to bonus episodes, resources, and virtual events)? Become a member at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

GROUP COACHING 2026

BOOK DANIELLE TO SPEAK

Want to bring these conversations to your organization, campus, or business group? Reach out to our team at info@tellpublicrelations.com (and download Danielle's speaking kit here).

Leading an all-women group? Here are three things you should know (A conversation with Cassie Little of Her Sorority Journey)

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson speaks with with Cassie Little, advisory board member at the Women's Relational Health Institute as well as the founder of Her Sorority Journey.

While Cassie's specialty is sororities, we are seeing trends between her observations in these spaces and what I'm seeing in other women-dominated spaces.

In this conversation, we talk about three things women leader should know about leadership woes, member conflict, and new member fears.

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Resources mentioned in this episode:

The impact of all-male, all-female groups (Pew Research Center)

Women's Relational Health 2025 Outlook Report

For the full episode, you've got to be a member of "Office Hours"! Join anytime at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

Book Danielle to speak about the science of women's conflict and connection at your next event: daniellebayardjackson.com

THIS is the scientific reason why you're getting bored with friend "catch-ups"// a conversation with Creative Health Scientist Katina Bajaj

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Danielle Bayard Jackson and Katina Bajaj explore the intersection of creativity, health, and social connections. Katina shares her insights on how creativity is essential for mental and emotional well-being, and how it can enhance our relationships.

They discuss the importance of play and leisure in a productivity-driven culture, and how redefining our understanding of creativity can lead to deeper connections with ourselves and others. The conversation also touches on the challenges of perfectionism and the need to prioritize leisure time for a fulfilling life.

For the full episode, you've got to be a member of "Office Hours"! Join anytime at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

Read Katina's Substack (it's actually so good!): Creative Health with Daydreamers | Substack

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Book Danielle to speak about the science of women's conflict and connection at your next event: daniellebayardjackson.com

Is being "judgy" the reason you can't form deep friendships?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:30:00 -0400

Many women have hopes of forming friendships that eventually reach some level of platonic intimacy. But for those with a tendency to perpetually make moral judgements on their friends' choices, lifestyle, and behaviors, connection might be limited.

In this episode, host and women's friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson shares 4 reasons we tend to judge our female friends... and 4 strategies to help us stop (or at least, do it a little less).

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To become a member of "Office Hours" (and enjoy free guides, bonus episodes, and extra BTS vlogs), join at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

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Book Danielle to speak at daniellebayardjackson.com. (She has spoken for companies like TikTok, Etsy, NBA, NFL, and Bumble... invite her to share her insights with your organization, too!).

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Buy Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships and read it with your book club as the year comes to a close (or to ring in 2026!).

The mother-daughter friendship trend that we need to get under control// a conversation with Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Over the last year of travelling for speaking engagements with universities, women's organizations, and sororities, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson has noticed an unusual trend. In this episode, she shares "receipts" on the alarming shift in young women's friendship agency, and then calls in an expert to help make sense of it all.

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart (pediatric psychologist and author of the new book Love the Teen You Have) shares insights that will be helpful to two groups: moms who want to stop projecting their unhealed friendship issues on their daughters and women who want to better understand how their adolescent friendships shaped the female friendship attitudes they have today.

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To learn more about booking Danielle as a speaker to address issues on the science of women's conflict and connection, visit daniellebayardjackson.com.

To become a member of "Office Hours" to claim bonus episodes and exclusive resources, visit betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

7 Holiday-related friendship issues that you need to prepare for now// Friendship Expert Danielle Bayard Jackson

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward Podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson discusses the complexities of women's friendships during the holiday season.

She outlines several common friendship issues that arise during this time, including the drama surrounding invitations, the challenges of reuniting with former friends, financial considerations, and the dynamics between single and partnered friends.

Danielle also emphasizes the importance of being proactive in addressing these issues to foster healthier relationships and maintain emotional well-being.

*For the full episode and bonus resources, join us in "Office Hours" by visiting betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

3 mistakes we make when "holding space" for female friends// Hosted by female friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 16:30:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host and female friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson explores the complexities of "holding space" in our female friendships.

She discusses:

the importance of holding space for friends
the three types of support friends need
common mistakes made in providing emotional support
effective strategies to "hold space"

Through evidence-based insights and personal anecdotes, Danielle emphasizes the significance of understanding emotional needs and the impact of inadequate support on friendships. The episode concludes with practical tips for listeners to improve their ability to hold space for friends in need.

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SPEAKING

Want to book Danielle to speak at your event? Contact her management at samantha@tellpublicrelations.com.

VIDEOS

Want to watch Danielle's latest viral video about sorority friendships and connections? Click here.

TRAINING

Interested in doing what Danielle does for a living as a women's relational health coach? Learn more at womensrelationalhealthinstitute.com

PARTNERSHIPS

Want to partner with Danielle for an upcoming campaign (Fall, Friendsgiving, Christmas, New Years)? Reach out to us at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com

VISIBILITY

If you have a business or brand and want the same kind of visibility that Danielle Bayard Jackson has enjoyed (brand deals, book deals, media appearances, speaking engagements), join her visibility boot camp. Details here at tellpublicrelations.com

"WHO IS THIS WOMAN?"

Learn about Danielle's book, research, partnerships, and media appearances at daniellebayardjackson.com.

6 Psychological Reasons Why We Remain Friends with "Frenemies"

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 15:00:00 -0400

You recently realized that a friend in your life is more like a "frenemy", but for some reason you can't seem to end the relationship. Why is it so difficult to separate yourself from someone who doesn't always have your best interest at heart?

In this week's episode, host and resident friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson shares what the research has to say about these kinds of friend dynamics, along with ways that you can navigate these tense relationships.

NOTE If you want access to the full episode (including the corresponding guide!), join us in "Office Hours (our Patreon community), including bonus episodes and resources. Join NOW at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

Want to read more about "frenemies"? Read this Huffpost article.

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SPEAKING

Want to book Danielle to speak at your event? Contact her management at samantha@tellpublicrelations.com.

VIDEOS

Want to watch Danielle's latest viral video about sorority friendships and connections? Click here.

TRAINING

Interested in doing what Danielle does for a living as a women's relational health coach? Learn more at womensrelationalhealthinstitute.com

PARTNERSHIPS

Want to partner with Danielle for an upcoming campaign (Fall, Friendsgiving, Christmas, New Years)? Reach out to us at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com

VISIBILITY

"WHO IS THIS WOMAN?"

Learn about Danielle's book, research, partnerships, and media appearances hat daniellebayardjackson.com.

For the woman who has TOO many friends...

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 19:30:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson speaks to women who -- in the midst of a loneliness epidemic-- actually have too many friends.

If you're a woman who is highly visible and/ or highly social and are becoming resentful or burned out by your efforts to maintain multiple connections, this episode is for you.

Danielle discusses the reasons behind this feeling, including identity issues, fear of missing out, and societal pressures.

Then, she provides four tactical strategies for managing friendships effectively. (This portion of the show is reserved exclusively for members of "Office Hours". Join any time at betterfemalefrindships.com/podcast.)

The unique stress that women face (and how social support helps us through it)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 20:45:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson explores the unique stressors that women face and how their friendships serve as a crucial buffer against these stressors.

The conversation delves into the biological, ecological, and social dimensions of stress, emphasizing the importance of perceived social support.

Danielle also discusses various studies that highlight the benefits of female friendships on mental and physical health, workplace dynamics, and overall well-being.

For members of the Friend Forward Patron Community ("Office Hours"), there's bonus material where the host also provides four practical strategies for inviting more social support into one's life, encouraging listeners to prioritize their friendships and seek help when needed.

SOURCE: The book Danielle referenced throughout the episode is "Stress, Social Support, and Women" by Stevan E. Hobfoll.

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Want to become a women's relational health coach like Danielle? Join the free "lunch and learn" on Wednesday, August 13 at 1pm EST. Visit the "certification" page at womensrelationalhealthinstitute.com.

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Want Danielle to design and present an engaging and informative presentation about women's conflict and connection at your next event? Contact us at daniellebayardjackson.com.

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Follow Danielle on socials @daniellebayardjackson

How to create "community care plans" within your female friendships // A conversation with Dr. Ashley Gaddy Robbins

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 21:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Dr. Ashley Gaddy Robbins discusses the importance of community care as a form of resistance, emphasizing the mutual support and holistic care that communities provide.

Alongside host and women's friendship expect Danielle Bayard Jackson, Dr. Robbins defines community care, shares strategies for engaging women in community care, and addresses common challenges faced by individuals in seeking connection.

Dr. Robbins highlights the significance of self-assessment and shared values in building community, and introduces everyday resistance strategies that can empower individuals to take action in their lives and communities.

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Access the full episode as a member of "Office Hours" (our Patreon community). Join anytime at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

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Book Danielle to share evidence-based insights on women's conflict and cooperation at your next event by contacting samantha@tellpublicrelations.com.

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Follow Danielle Bayard Jackson on Instagram

Follow Friend Forward on Instagram

Follow Dr. Robbins on Instagram

How to be 'helpable' (and the power of the "Benjamin Franklin Effect")

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:00:00 -0400

Why is it hard to ask our friends for help? What are the benefits of becoming "help-seeking" women in our friendships? And once we do get the nerve to ask for support, how can we do it in a way that actually motivates people to show up for us?

This is a pretty research-heavy episode, and it's going to finally allow you to exhale. Truly.

Because host Danielle Bayard Jackson answering these questions and more on this episode of the Friend Forward podcast.

Want more?

This is an excerpt of our most recent episode. To enjoy the full episode, we encourage you to become a member of "Office Hours", our private Patreon community. You can join us any time at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

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Event

TAMPA: Join us for "Book Swap with Heart" on July 27 at Hotel Haya in historic Ybor City from 2pm-4pm. Get your tickets here.

Want to book Danielle to share her research-based insights on women's relational health at your upcoming event? Connect with her team at samantha@tellpublicrelations.com.

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Stay connected

Connect with us on Instagram @friendforward
Connect with Danielle on Instagram @daniellebayardjackson
Learn more about relational health expert Danielle Bayard Jackson at daniellebayardjackson.com

"Tell me what you want, what you really, really want."// 5 Most Common Contradictory Friendship Goals

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 16:30:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, resident friendship coach and women's relational health expert Danielle Bayard Jackson delves into five of the most common contradictions women face in their relational goals.

Together we'll explore contradictions like the desire for siloed friendships versus wanting a friend group; and the temptation to hide your needs while always wanting to be deeply known.

Through these discussions, Danielle offers insights and strategies for reconciling these conflicting desires to foster healthier relationships.

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Want to enjoy the full episode?

Become an "Office Hours" member today by registering on betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

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Need a relational health coach to help you with a current issue? One-on-one sessions for the summer are available for the next 4 weeks. Book a session before August 11 and receive an additional 30-minute follow-up session complimentary.

Visit betterfemalefriendships.com to book today.

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Want to book Danielle for your (virtual or in-person) Fall 2025 event? Inquire today by contacting us at samantha@tellpublicrelations.com

Women feel more "interpersonal guilt" than men. Here's how that's impacting our female friendships.

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0400

If you had one week where you couldn't experience guilt, how would that change your friendships? Would you end relationships? Would you set boundaries? Would you ask for help? Would you pull away from your family to spend more time with friends without feeling bad about it?

These questions were sparked by the book I'm reading, "The Guilt Pill" by Saumya Dave. In it, the main character, Maya, takes a new pill that numbs the part of her brain that feels guilt and... well, it's quite a ride.

So I read four studies about women's guilt and in this episode I'll unpack what I discovered. Then we'll look at ways that our perpetual "interpersonal guilt" shapes the decisions we make in our friendships... and the surprising dangers and benefits that come of it.

Here are the 4 studies we review in the episode:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9373443/

https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/80-women-recognize-value-self-nurture-yet-few-care-selves-they-care-others

https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjso.12575

https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/spanish-journal-of-psychology/article/abs/intensity-of-habitual-guilt-in-men-and-women-differences-in-interpersonal-sensitivity-and-the-tendency-towards-anxiousaggressive-guilt/8646A546F01B6ABF51C9C6F1EF0620A1

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Want to hear the extended episode?

Become a member of "Office Hours" for full episodes, BONUS episodes, resources, book clubs, and more. See you at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

Is ChatGPT impacting your friendships? These 7 questions will help you to know for sure.

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson explores the complex relationship between artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT, and women's friendships.

This episode offers seven questions that equip you to evaluate and interrogate ways that your ChatGPT use might be impacting the breadth, depth, and quality of your social landscape.

NOTE: You are listening to a complimentary excerpt of the full episode which is housed exclusively in "Office Hours", our private Patreon community (the full episode is 40 minutes). You can join any time by visiting betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

No, she's not (always) "gaslighting" you // a conversation about "therapy speak" during friendship conflict with Dr. Isabelle Morley

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:15:00 -0400

In this conversation, Dr. Isabelle Morley (author of the book "They're not gaslighting you") and host Danielle Bayard Jackson discuss the increasing prevalence of therapy-related language in everyday conversations, particularly in the context of friendships and conflicts.

They explore the definitions and nuances of terms like gaslighting, narcissism, and boundaries, emphasizing the importance of using these terms responsibly. The discussion highlights the dangers of social media in shaping perceptions of relationships and the need for more thoughtful communication. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to focus on feelings and personal empowerment rather than labeling others.

RESOURCES

NOTE: To the members of "Office Hours", we created a quick guide to equip you with alternatives for words like "gaslight" and "narcissist". (Not a member of "Office Hours"? Join now by visiting betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast)

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SPEAKING

Want to book Danielle to speak about the science of women's conflict and connection at your Fall event? Reach out to the team at info@tellpublicrelations.com to inquire today. [View her speaking reel here.]

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BOOK CLUB

Want Danielle to (virtually) visit your book club? Buy your copy of Fighting for our Friendships and then contact us at hello@betterfemalefriendships.com.

When life transitions impact your friendships: A conversation with Almost 30 hosts Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:00:00 -0400

Want to two friends discuss the life transitions that strained their friendship?

In this conversation, Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, co-hosts of the Almost 30 podcast (title of their new book!), share their journey of navigating friendships through various life transitions.

They discuss the evolution of their friendship, the challenges they faced, and the lessons learned from conflicts. The conversation highlights the importance of trust, communication, and the ebb and flow of relationships, especially as women experience significant life changes. They also address common friendship issues faced by women and offer insights on how to maintain deep connections despite life's challenges.

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Grab your complimentary guide on navigating life transitions with friends by becoming a member of "Office Hours". betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

Buy "Almost 30: A definitive guide to a life you love for the next decade and beyond" here

Trees, cars, and sidewalks: How poor urban planning hurts your social life // a conversation with Fatima Elkott, urban planner

Thu, 29 May 2025 19:30:00 -0400

Okay, I know I shouldn't have favorites but this episode (and this guest!) might really be in my top 10 favorite episodes that we've produced in the show's five-year history.

In this conversation, urban planner Fatima Elkott discusses the significance of city design in shaping our environments and social interactions.

She emphasizes the impact of urban planning on community engagement, the importance of creating third spaces, and the role of civic participation in urban planning. Elkott also addresses social inequities in urban design and shares examples of her favorite thoughtful urban spaces that foster connection and joy.

Note: This is an excerpt from the full episode, which is available exclusively on Patreon. Join us anytime at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

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** Book Danielle to speak at your conference, seminar, or retreat by contacting info@tellpublicrelations.com (and view her speaking reel here).

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SPONSOR: TELL Public Relations

When Danielle Bayard Jackson launched Friend Forward seven years ago, people were laughing at the idea of a "friendship coach". Now, she's one of the most sought-after experts on women's conflict and connection.

If you're wondering how to get the same kind of visibility for your business, it might be time to being in a partner. Visit tellpublicrelations.com to learn how you can increase your visibility and brand authority with speaking engagements, television appearances, podcast interviews, and true community engagement.

"It's just easier to be friends with guys" -- a sentiment we need to unpack.

Thu, 22 May 2025 19:30:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson delves into the complexities of women's friendships, particularly the perception that friendships with men are easier.

She explores various factors contributing to this belief, including differences in:

conversation styles
bonding rituals
emotional expectations
safety concerns

Through research and personal reflections, Danielle emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics and encourages listeners to appreciate the value of both male and female friendships.

Note: This is an excerpt from the full episode, which is available exclusively on Patreon. Join us anytime at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast.

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** Book Danielle to speak at your conference, seminar, or retreat by contacting info@tellpublicrelations.com (and view her speaking reel here).

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Thanks to our sponsor TELL PUBLIC RELATIONS.

If you've ever wondered how friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson is able to elevate her brand through speaking engagements, podcast interviews, and television appearances, learn more at tellpublicrelations.com and see how we can get the same visibility for your brand. TELLPUBLICRELATIONS.COM

Surprising ways that the "mother wound" shows up in female friendships // with Dr. Dylesia, mother-daughter trauma recovery expert

Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson and Dr. Dylesia (@drdylesia) -- an expert on mother-daughter trauma and estrangement-- explore the intricate dynamics of mother-daughter relationships and how they influence women's friendships in adulthood.

They discuss the concept of 'mother wounds' and how unresolved issues with mothers can manifest in adult friendships. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics, identifying healthy versus dysfunctional relationships, and the role of curiosity and therapy in healing. Dr. Dylesia shares personal insights and practical advice for women seeking to improve their friendships and navigate their emotional landscapes.

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SPONSOR: TELL Public Relations

THIS is the reason you have "friend fatigue": A reflection on the power of "friend-life integration"

Fri, 09 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson explores the concept of 'friend fatigue,' a growing concern among women in their thirties and forties who are overwhelmed by their lack of "friend-life integration".

Danielle discusses the emotional and social labor involved in maintaining friendships, particularly in the context of modern life, which often prioritizes isolation and independence. Drawing on research and cultural comparisons, Danielle emphasizes the importance of integrating friendships into daily life and offers strategies for fostering social connections amidst busy schedules.

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*We reserve extended episodes, bonus clips, and virtual events (including book club!) for members of "Office Hours". Join any time at betterfemalefriendship.com/podcast.

**Want to learn how to be a women's relational health coach like Danielle? Join a webinar to learn how you can be trained and equipped to help women navigate their most pressing friendship issues by visiting womensrelationalhealthinstitute.com

4 Things We're Getting Wrong about "Third Places" with host Danielle Bayard Jackson

Fri, 02 May 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson explores the concept of 'third places'—social environments that are neither home nor work. She discusses the decline of these spaces, the importance of physical proximity (propinquity) in fostering relationships, and the goals individuals should consider when seeking out third places.

Danielle emphasizes the need for inclusivity, particularly regarding gender, and encourages listeners to diversify their social needs by engaging consistently in various third places. The episode concludes with actionable homework for listeners to identify and commit to local third places.

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*Join our free webinar "6 Barriers to Friend-Making for Modern Women (and How to Overcome Them)" at betterfemalefriendships.com/webinar

The Role of Proximity and Perception in Women's Friendships

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 15:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bayard Jackson presents three hard truths about:

the shrinking nature of our social networks
the importance of physical proximity in forming friendships
and the subjective nature of friendship quality

By sharing research findings and personal insights, Jackson encourages listeners to take proactive steps in enhancing their social connections and understanding the dynamics of their relationships.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

May 11 Live Webinar: "6 Cultural and Environmental Barriers to Friend-Making for Adult Women" Register at betterfemalefriendships.com/webinar

Are you the unofficial "coach" of your friend group? Become certified as a women's relational health coach and you can be helping more women (while enjoying a profitable business). Learn more by visiting womensrelationalhealthinstitute.com.

Enjoy full episodes and bonus resources as a member of "Office Hours", our private community. Become a member at betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR, TELL PUBLIC RELATIONS

If you've been watching the growth of Danielle Bayard Jackson and the Friend Forward brand (speaking engagements, podcast appearances -ahem, Mel Robbins!-global partnerships, book deals, speaking engagements and more), and you'd like to experience that visibility for your own brand, we can help.

Join our 4-week "Visibility Summer School" to spend a FRACTION of the price it would cost to hire a publicist and begin getting the shine that you deserve.

Learn more at tellpublicrelations.com.

** Follow Danielle on Instagram **

Communal v. Exchange Relationships and the Reasons Some Friends "Keep Score"

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:30:00 -0400

Reciprocity is the cornerstone of any healthy female friendship, but what do you do with someone who's so fixated on reciprocity that it turns into scorekeeping? And why do some obsess over everything being perfectly even while others are able to let it go?

In this episode, host Danielle Bayard Jackson (relational health educator, female friendship expert, author of Fighting for our Friendships) shares research that explains the different kinds of "giving" in relationships-- and how to manage it all in a healthy way.

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*Join our Friendship Elevated Group Coaching Program for four months of caring, personalized, community-based support as your friendship landscape is completely transformed. Sign-up here.

** For full episodes, bonus resources, and more, join "Office Hours", our Patreon community. Betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast (Book club starts soon!)

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Sponsor: TELL Public Relations

If you are an entrepreneur or brand leader and you want to enjoy the same kind of visibility that Friend Forward has gained over the past five years (book deals, national media appearances, paid speaking engagements), consider learning how to become your own publicist. Join "Visibility Summer School" launching this June.

BONUS: Sign-up before 4/25 and you'll get a complimentary PR audit of your social media accounts and website within 48 hours of signing-up.

Where do you turn for friendship advice? Here are 4 questions to evaluate your resources.

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host and women's relational health coach Danielle Bayard Jackson discusses the importance of evaluating the sources of friendship advice that women often turn to. She emphasizes the need for validation of feelings, the importance of being equipped for better friendships, and the impact of resources on emotional well-being. Tune in to hear the four key questions to assess the health of these sources and shares valuable resources for fostering better female friendships.

** Full episodes are available exclusively in " Office Hours", our private Patreon channel. See you over there! Betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

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THIS WEEK IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO JOIN THE FRIENDSHIP ELEVATED GROUP COACHING PROGRAM. [Here]

Book Danielle to speak at your event by contacting samantha@tellpublicrelations.com

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This episode is sponsored by TELL Public Relations.

Want to learn about how the Friend Forward brand grew to international recognition (including book dals, national media, paid speaking engagements, and more)? Your brand can achieve the same visibility. Learn how by visiting tellpublicrelations.com.

How to rewrite the "rules" of friendship-- Interview with Morgan Debaun of Blavity, Inc. and author of "Rewrite Your Rules"

Sat, 05 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host Danielle Bard Jackson interviews Morgan Debaun, co-founder and CEO of Blavity and author of "Rewrite Your Rules" about ways to rewrite the rules that govern our friendships. This episode encourages listeners to interrogate their default settings in friendships and to embrace new ways of connecting with others, especially as high-achieving women.

Get Morgan's new book here.
Join Friendship Elevated Group Coaching for your (last?) chance to work with Danielle.
Become a member of "Office Hours" for access to full episodes, bonus content, and supplementary material.
Book Danielle to speak at your event (or design women's relational health content, programming, or curriculum for your organization) by contacting info@tellpublicrelations.com

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This episode is sponsored by the new Women's Relational Health Institute.

Interested in becoming a women's relational health coach (trained by Danielle Bayard Jackson)? Contact us for details at team@womensrelationalhealthinstitute.com.

"So you want to build a friend group...?" Here are the 4 key ingredients for building a consistent friend group from scratch with Danielle Bayard Jackson

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 18:00:00 -0400

One of the most popular questions we receive on book tour, during workshops, or during panel Q&A's is about having a friend group. While it certainly becomes more challenging to form and maintain in adulthood, it's not impossible!

In this episode, host Danielle Bayard Jackson shares 4 things that are the key ingredients of forming a friend group that consistently interacts with each other.

FOR THE FULL EPISODE, JOIN US IN "OFFICE HOURS", OUR PATREON COMMUNITY.

www.betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

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Want to book Danielle to speak at your upcoming event? All presentations are customized for the occasion and audience, filled with research and interactive exercises. If you lead a women's group, sorority, school, nonprofit, etc, reach out today. Contact Sam and Samantha@tellpublicrelations.com

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We're about to launch our group coaching program, Friendship Elevated, for its fifth cohort! Sixteen weeks, digital community, self-paced library, bi-weekly coaching calls with Danielle, and a program workbook-- what more could you ask for?

Get the details here. www.betterfemalefriendships.com/friendship-elevated... SEATS ARE LIMITED.

"Should we talk about money with friends?" Interview with financial therapist Aja Evans

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:15:00 -0400

How do you talk to your friends about money? In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, friendship expert and host Danielle Bayard Jackson interviews financial therapist Aja Evans whose book "Feel-Good Finance" is a total game-changer.

In this episode, we'll cover:

-reasons why talking about money in friendships is difficult

-research around women's friendship and comfort level with talking about finances

-tips from a financial therapist about how to have tough conversation whether you make less or more than your friends.

REMEMBER: The FULL 35-MINUTE EPISODE is available exclusive at "Office Hours" (our Patreon). https://www.betterfemalefriendships.c...

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The Women's Connection Summit is happening in 4 weeks in sunny Tampa, Fl!

GRAB YOUR TICKET!

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Book host, author, and relational health educator Danielle Bayard Jackson to speak at your event Daniellebayardjackson.com OR grab her book, Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships

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Thank you to our sponsor, WOMEN'S RELATIONAL HEALTH INSTITUTE. Visit womensrelationalhealthinstitute.com

Are you ACTUALLY ready for authentic community? Interview with Cat Lantigua and Danielle Bayard Jackson

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0400

We're sharing 5 signs that you may not be ready for authentic community.... yet. After we share these signs, you'll hear an excerpt from our interview with Cat Lantigua, author of the book Build It And They Will Come: A Guide To Architecting Intentional Community.

We end the episode with host Danielle Bayard Jackson sharing three ways she dropped the ball with community-building this year (and how she's attempting to recover).

Remember, the FULL EPISODE is available EXCLUSIVELY at "Office Hours" (our Patreon channel). Join now.

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Our "For the Girls" challenge starts MONDAY, February 3! Free for Patreon members. Join now.

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We're FIVE WEEKS away from the Women's Connection Summit. Grab your ticket NOW before the price goes up.

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This episode is sponsored by the Women's Relational Health Institute, an organization for women leaders who want to build authentic connections for among their female-dominated teams.

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Invite Danielle to speak for your Women's History Month program, summer event, or upcoming staff development. Inquire at daniellebayardjackson.com

Friend Forward Announcements: 4 Things You Should Know About What's Happening BTS

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 15:45:00 -0400

*Announcement Edition*

We've got a few things happening behind the scenes that you should know about:

Our "For the Girls" challenge kicks off on Monday, February 3 If you're serious about improving the strength and health of your platonic connections with other women, this challenge is for you. Free for members of the "Dean's List" tier of our "Office Hours" community. Join now at Patreon.com/friendforward
Galentine's Day is coming up, and it's the perfect time to round up some of your girls and go through Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships together. To encourage you to make it happen, we're giving you a free Facilitator's Guide. Download your copy at betterfemalefriendships.com now for a limited time.
The Women's Connection Summit is happening in a few WEEKS. Join us in sunny Tampa, Fl for a weekend filled with informative panels, speed-friending, food and drinks, and an opportunity to learn about the science of connection WHILE making new connections in real time. Grab your ticket at womensconnectionsummit.com.
If you need a speaker, panelist, or workshop facilitator to explore the science of women's connection and conflict at your Women's History Month event, Danielle Bayard Jackson some availability... so book ASAP. Email Sam at info@tellpublicrelations.com with details and we'll get back to your shortly.

Cynicism is on the rise. Here's how it's ruining your friendships. (Analysis with friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson) [Patreon Excerpt]

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 14:35:00 -0400

Research shows that cynicism is on the rise. What does that mean for your ability to create and maintain deep friendships? In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, we review some key points from the book "Hope for Cynics" by Jamil Zaki and think through the relational consequences of this trend.

Remember, the full episode is available exclusively in "Office Hours", our Patreon network.

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*Attend our annual Women's Connection Summit on 3/7-8/2025

**Serious about making new friends in the new year? Register for our "Forming Friendships Accelerator!"

***Follow Danielle on Instagram

Why are we obsessed with talking about "fake friends" (and how do we find genuine female friendships?) -- Episode excerpt with friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 19:50:00 -0400

Why does it seem like women are always talking about "fake friends"? While SOME women really ARE actively betraying their friends and operating with bad intentions, there's actually more to the story.

In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host, author and relational health educator Danielle Bayard Jackson shares her analysis of the popular phrase.

In this EXCERPT of the Friend Forward Podcast, we'll explore:

4 theories for why women talk about "fake friends"
3 ways to position yourself for genuine female friendships
signs of a genuine, deep friendship

FULL EPISODES ARE AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY IN THE "OFFICE HOURS" COMMUNITY ON PATREON:

Join any time at https://www.betterfemalefriendships.c...

TAKE OUR NEW COURSE: "FORMING FRIENDSHIPS ACCELERATOR" to learn how to form new connections in 3 weeks (yes, seriously).

https://www.betterfemalefriendships.c...

COME TO OUR WOMEN'S CONNECTION SUMMIT IN SUNNY TAMPA, FL on MARCH 7-8!

https://www.womensconnectionsummit.com/

Book Danielle to speak at your event or facilitate a workshop for your team/ school/ business:

https://www.betterfemalefriendships.c...

Should you change your personality to make (and keep!) friends? An examination of The Big 5 Personality Traits at the Intersection of Friendship with friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson [Patreon Excerpt]

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:30:00 -0400

Welcome back to a new season, baby! (And we're on YouTube!)

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Listen, I know this might sound harsh, but hear me out:

There is a research study that examines the ways that certain aspects of your personality impact the way you form and maintain friendships. This week we're :

digging into the study to better understand how we can better show up in friendships
evaluating the personality domains that most impact relationship quality
getting homework to help us adapt the parts of our personality that have gotten in the way of quality friendships while maintaining our authenticity [Patreon exclusive]

While you should definitely keep the essence of who you are and not look for ways to adapt to please others, it's worth evaluating the ways that some (malleable!) aspects of your personality might need to be adapted if they're having a consistently negative impact on your friendships.

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** DID YOU KNOW you can enjoy this same episode on YouTube?

**You can also access the FULL EPISODE by coming to "Office Hours" (our Patreon community). Get access now at www.betterfemalefriendships.com/podcast

** If you're serious about making new connections with other women in 2025, we're weeks away from the Women's Connection Summit happening on March 7-8 in sunny Tampa, Fl. Wanna be an attendee (or heck, even a sponsor)? Get the details at www.womensconnectionsummit.com

Major thanks to the Women's Relational Health Institute for sponsoring this episode of the Friend Forward podcast.

See you in January 2025! (Season Finale)

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 18:45:00 -0400

With the election, hurricane evacuations, holidays, and behind-the-scenes projects, the Friend Forward team is taking a break. In this episode, friendship expert and host Danielle Bayard Jackson shares three reasons we're in our "rest era" and what you can expect when we return.

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*Book Danielle to speak at your event at info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com.

*Suggest a topic for the episode at betterfemalefriendships.com

*Grab a copy of Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships

*Follow us on Instagram

The fine line between caring and codependency with Terri Cole

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400

How do you know if you're showing care or showing codependency? How do you deal with a friend who's involvement in your life feels overwhelming? How do we show love for one another without losing ourselves?

In this week's episode of the Friend Forward podcast, we'll speak with psychotherapist Terri Cole whose new book -- Too Much: A Guide to Breaking the Cycle of High-Functioning Co-Dependence-- aims to answer those very questions.

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Shhhhh! Details for our Women's Summit were quietly published today.

Check it out here.

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Want bonus and extended podcast episode? Join our private Friend Forward Group Chat here.

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Looking for a new book club selection? Grab your copy of Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships today.

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Connect with Danielle on Instagram.

Book Danielle Bayard Jackson to speak at your event.

Reality TV as a female friendship ritual and bonding agent (a conversation with the hosts of the "2 Black Girls, 1 Rose" podcast)

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 11:45:00 -0400

Reality tv often gets a bad wrap, but for girlfriends who watch together, it becomes a bonding agent. Why is that? The hosts of the wildly popular "2 Black Girls, 1 Rose" podcast are real life besties who break it all down on this week's episode.

Be sure to listen to their show wherever you listen to podcasts, and join their Patreon for a deeper dive into all things reality tv.

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To learn more about what the research reveals about the mechanics of women's friendships, buy your copy of Danielle Bayard Jackson's new book, Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships.

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Want to learn and connect in real life? Save the date for March 7-8, 2025 for a two-day event in Tampa, Florida. Details to come.

WHY DOES THIS EPISODE FEEL LIKE FREE THERAPY? (A conversation about conflict and safety with Domenique Harrison)

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 10:30:00 -0400

Research finds that on the other side of healthy conflict, people report feeling closer to one another. But what happens when we don't actually have the skills to navigate hard conversations?

Domenique Harrison offers therapy at the intersection of race and relationships, and in this episode, she shares some of the key skills necessary to walk through difficult interactions with people we care about (whether or not racialized issues are at the heart of the conversation).

If you know you need to get better at tough talks but you're not sure where to start, this episode is for you.

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[Note: The insights shared in this episode are not, in fact, therapy. Please talk to your personal mental healthcare provider before applying notes from this conversation.]

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Learn more at betterfemalefriendships.com.

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**Mystery event** Save the date for March 7-8, 2025 (and book a flight to Tampa, Florida!). More details to come.

The commodification of friendship: 4 signs it's not authentic

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:20:00 -0400

The word "community" is being thrown around by a lot of brands and organizations, but what does that word really mean? Whether you're a community builder or a woman looking to experience a real sense of community, listen to this episode of Friend Forward to learn four traits of authentic community so you can find spaces where you truly belong. Host and friendship educator Danielle Bayard Jackson breaks it down for you.

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Want an in-person community experience? Save the date and book a flight to Tampa, Florida for March 7-8, 2025. Details to come (!!!!).

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Buy your copy of Danielle's new book Fighting for our Friendships and host a discussion with your book club this month!

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Want to book a speaker who specializes in the science of women's conflict and connection, connect with us at info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com and learn more about speaker Danielle Bayard Jackson here.

** Follow Danielle Bayard Jackson on Instagram

The beauty and danger of friendship introductions, friendship overlap, and friendship poaching (Part 2)

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 10:30:00 -0400

Is "friendship poaching" really a thing? And when it happens to you, what should you do? In part 1, we looked at the benefits and risks of introducing friends to one another, but in part 2, we'll unpack the anxiety around "friend stealing".

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Want vlogs, bonus episodes, a monthly book club, and additional friendship research? Join the Friend Forward Group Chat.

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Grab your copy of "Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships" and read it with your book club!

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Have an upcoming event? Host Danielle Bayard Jackson has been leading engaging, research-based presentations for over a decade. Book her to speak at info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com.

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SPONSORED BY TELL PUBLIC RELATIONS

Host Danielle Bayard Jackson's insights have been featured on national talk shows, NBC News, New York Times, Washington Post and other media outlets. She's also served as the official spokesperson for Bumble's new app "Bumble for Friends", and she has secured interviews on some of the country's top podcasts.

If you're looking for the same kind of visibility for your brand, visit us at Tellpublicrelations.com to come up with a game plan of how you can get more of the shine that you deserve.

The beauty and danger of friendship introductions, friendship overlap, and friendship poaching (Part 1)

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Should you introduce your friends to one another? In this episode, we'll explore the benefits of having what network researchers refer to as high friendship overlap. We'll also look at the main reason women are reluctant to connect their friends: the potential for "poaching", which we'll address in part 2.

Want vlogs, bonus episodes, a monthly book club, and additional friendship research? Join the Friend Forward Group Chat.

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Grab your copy of "Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships" and read it with your book club!

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Have an upcoming event? Host Danielle Bayard Jackson has been leading engaging, research-based presentations for over a decade. Book her to speak at info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com.

Are you currently settling for "unwanted friendships"?

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 16:30:00 -0400

In this week's episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson shares insights for women who feel like they've passively cultivated a friendship network filled with relationships that they don't even really want.

Tune in to learn how to navigate this situation with more clarity and confidence.

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Looking for your next book club read? Order your copy of Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships. and we'll send you an exclusive "facilitator's guide" (free!) to help you lead the conversation with your book club. Send confirmation of your order number to hello(at)betterfemalefriendships(dot)com and we'll send you this free resource.

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Want Danielle to speak at your event? Email our team at info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com.

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In this episode, Danielle briefly hinted at an event taking place in Tampa, Florida on March 8, 2025. We can't share too much yet, but save the date!

To the woman who's afraid to let her guard down in new friendships

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Got trust issues? In this week's episode, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson shares 4 ways to gradually and responsibly allow yourself to be more trusting in your female friendships.

Want two bonus strategies? We reserve extra content (including bonus episodes!) for members of the private Friend Forward Group Chat. Join here.

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LAST CHANCE TO JOIN OUR GROUP COACHING PROGRAM, "FRIENDSHIP ELEVATED".

We have our welcome call kicking off next week which means you have three days left to register. Join at betterfemalefriendships.com/friendship-elevated

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Want Danielle to speak at your event? Email our team at info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com.

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Are you in a transitional period in your life and ready to take a serious friendship inventory? We strongly suggest this activity to experience genuine "aha" moments about what needs to shift in your friendship landscape.

Are your friends secretly using "A.I. companions?"

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0400

People are turning to "artificial companions" to supplement (and sometimes replace) what they're getting from real-life friends. What are the pros and cons of using A.I for friendship? Why do people seek this kind of connection? And what are the broader implications of this trend?

In this week's episode of the Friend Forward podcast, Danielle Bayard Jackson actually formed her own A.I friend and is reporting back. Listen to this episode to learn more about friendship at the intersection of artificial intelligence.

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Book a personal session with Danielle here.

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Book Danielle to lead a workshop or be a keynote speaker at your upcoming events by emailing info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com.

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Last chance to join the Friendship Elevated Group Coaching Program. Learn more here.

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Buy your copy of Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships (and read it with your book club!) here.

"She ghosted me. Now what?"

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 22:15:00 -0400

Ghosting is nothing new, but it does seem like it's become a more common option for those who want to end a relationship. New research suggests that platonic ghosting is just as painful as being ghosted by a romantic partner.

But what do you do when it happens to you?

In this week's episode of the Friend Forward podcast, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson offers 4 steps to help you decrease the time you spend ruminating and internalizing and finally move toward action that will help you heal.

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Want to book a one-on-one session with Danielle? Visit us here.

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ONLY 9 DAYS LEFT TO REGISTER FOR FRIENDSHIP ELEVATED (and receive "early bird" pricing). Join us as we work through research, exercises and lessons -- with bi-weekly coaching from Danielle herself-- for four intense months together. Learn more here: betterfemalefriendships.com/friendship-elevated

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Hire Danielle to speak at your conference! Contact our team at info@tellpublicrelations.com

Avoid these 4 phrases when meeting new friends

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 14:30:00 -0400

In the market for new friends? In this episode of the Friend Forward podcast, friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson shares 4 phrases to avoid.

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Buy your copy of "Fighting for our Friendships" and read it with your book club or women's organization! Order your copy here.

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Want to become a friendship coach? We're designing a high-level certification program. Learn more by emailing us at hello(at)betterfemalefriendships(dot)com.

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Want to experience a real transformation in your friendships? Doors to our (final?!) group coaching program, Friendship Elevated, are NOW OPEN. Learn more here.

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Want to stop ruminating about a frustrating friendship issue? Talk to a trained professional. Book your call here.

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Want to book Danielle to speak at your event? Email info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com

BONUS For the woman who feels alone in her private friendship struggles...

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 13:15:00 -0400

In this episode, you'll hear 3 women speak about the friendship issues they experienced and how shaking off the embarrassment of pursuing support for their relational health made a huge difference.

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ANNOUNCEMENT!

Doors for the 16-week Friendship Elevated Group Coaching Program JUST OPENED. Enjoy 20% off registration when you sign-up before August 18.

Join us as we come together in an intimate community for bi-weekly coaching (led by founder Danielle Bayard Jackson), five video modules, out-of-the-box exercises, and research-based strategies to help women begin enjoying more satisfaction in their female friendships.

Learn more at betterfemalefriendships.com/friendship-elevated

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Grab your copy of the new book Fighting for our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Friendships

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Book Danielle to speak by contacting her team at info(at)tellpublicrelations(dot)com

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THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE'S SPONSOR:

TELL Public Relations, a woman-owned PR agency dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs get more visibility.

Learn how to get publicity for your business this (competitive!) holiday season by attending TELL's virtual workshop. Details at tellpublicrelations.com.

And don't forget your weekly dose of visibility tips by listening to the TELL Me in Ten Podcast to learn publicity tips in ten minutes or less.

Does being a "good friend" to some mean being a "bad friend" to others?

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 10:30:00 -0400

In this episode, host and friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson discusses the idea that being a good friend to some might mean being a bad friend to others. She explores four points to consider when choosing which friendships to prioritize: being a good friend is relative, time is a limited resource, only 50% of friendships are reciprocal, and some people may be displeased with your choices. She encourages listeners to take inventory of their friendships and consider concentrating their efforts on their top three to five friends.

Keywords

friendships, good friend, bad friend, overwhelm, prioritize, time management, reciprocal friendships

Takeaways

Being a good friend is relative and different people have different expectations of what it means to be a good friend.
Time is a limited resource, and investing in certain friendships means other friendships may receive less attention.
Only 50% of friendships are reciprocal, meaning that not all friends rank each other the same way.
When choosing which friendships to prioritize, some people may be displeased or have expectations that you're not meeting.

Chapters