Why Men Are Lonelier Than Ever & How to Change That // A Man’s Guide to Real Connection //

If you want to connect email me at [email protected]

In today’s episode I’m tackling one of the most searched topics for men: loneliness. Drawing on alarming statistics—like only 20% of men today have six close friends, versus 55% just thirty years ago—I’ll explore not just why isolation is skyrocketing for men in mid‑life and beyond, but also how it’s deeply tied to physical decline, depression, and anxiety. I’ll get honest about my own experience and the real reasons men fall into isolation, and how that spiral looks in our lives.

Then, I’ll share the steps that have made a difference for me and the guys I work with—like the power of vulnerability, reaching out to old friends, volunteering, and investing in existing friendships. I’ll break down strategies like joining hobby groups, starting clubs, and being proactively present in conversations. Whether you’re approaching retirement or in the thick of your career, there’s practical, life‑affirming habits you can adopt right now to rebuild meaningful connection.

Finally, I tie it all to the five pillars of Next Third Best Third: thought life, physical condition, emotional well‑being, relationships, and identity. It’s about more than surviving loneliness—it’s about leaving a legacy of relationships and impact that matters. If you’re ready to make your “next third” your best third, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to subscribe, comment, and join the community—your connection matters.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Today’s Focus on Men’s Loneliness
00:30 – Why I Care: My Experience & Men I Work With
01:54 – Stark Stats: How Friendships Have Declined
03:12 – The Loneliness Spiral: Emptiness & Isolation
04:47 – Career Plateau & Loss of Network Value
06:09 – When No One Reaches Out: A Self‑Challenge
09:23 – Health Risks: Physical Decline & Mental Illness
12:05 – Generational Barriers to Vulnerability
15:36 – Action Steps: Reach Out, Volunteer, Join Groups
24:03 – Be Present, Communicate Better, Self‑Care Pillars


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Welcome to Next Third Best Third! Join us for the inaugural episode of the Next Third Best Third podcast! Host David Fenwick, founder, author, and life coach, introduces the mission to inspire men over 40 to thrive in the next stage of life. Discover how to conquer life's challenges across physical, mental, relational, spiritual, and emotional dimensions. In this episode, David shares insights on:

Physical Health: Strategies for maintaining fitness and vitality as you age.
Mental Resilience: Techniques to stay mentally sharp and manage stress.
Relational Growth: Building and nurturing meaningful relationships.
Spiritual Fulfillment: Finding purpose and deeper spiritual connections.
Emotional Well-being: Managing emotions and fostering a positive outlook.

Don't miss out on this journey towards making the next third of your life the best third!

Website: (https://www.nextthirdbestthird.com/)