The Loneliness Epidemic

I’ve been through the kind of isolation most people can’t imagine – locked away in solitary confinement, stripped of connection, fighting to keep my mind and spirit alive. But here’s the truth: loneliness doesn’t just live in a prison cell. It’s everywhere. People are feeling it at work, at home, even while scrolling through endless feeds that never fill the void.

In this conversation with Shirin on How To Battle, I get real about what that isolation does to you – physically, mentally, spiritually – and how I found strength through faith, reflection and rebuilding myself from the inside out.

We’ll talk about the loneliness epidemic, how tech and AI are changing the way we connect, and why being alone doesn’t have to break you – it can shape you.

Tune in as we dive into:
(00:00) Isolation as a natural human struggle
(03:40) The dangers of mental isolation
(06:55) Finding faith through isolation
(12:01) The social media comparison trap
(14:36) Embracing self-improvement for resilience
(17:52) AI companions as a double-edged sword
(22:28) Building confidence for connection
(26:33) Universal love and connection

Links mentioned in this episode:
Shirin Hejazi’s Instagram:   / shirinhejaziofficial  
Follow me on Instagram:   / carlosvasquezofficial  
Warrior in the Garden: 7 Rules for Men – Book PDF: https://carlosvasquez.systeme.io/warr...
Legendary Foods Instagram:   / legendaryfoods  

Shout out to Youth Champions for their amazing work in changing the lives of our youth! Want to get involved? Learn how to volunteer or donate here: https://youth-champions.org