Why your brain needs connection and how isolation impacts your mental health with Dr. Ben Rein.
episode 182.
Hey friend. 👋
Today, Dr. Ben Rein joins us to explore why connection isn’t just a cool idea — it’s a biological necessity for a healthy mind. Dr. Rein is an award-winning neuroscientist, author of Why Brains Need Friends, Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University, and a brilliant science communicator.
In today’s episode, we dive into the neuroscience of connection, how isolation triggers stress in the brain, and how meaningful relationships help us thrive. We also talk about recognizing when you’re running low on connection, curating a “social diet” that meets your needs, and how modern life and social media quietly erode real relationships.
Ben also shares how the loss of social cues online fuels hostility and division, why disagreement doesn’t have to break connections, and how small acts of kindness benefit the brain.
🎧 Hit play on your favorite podcast platform —> here.
I hope this conversation encourages you to reach out to a friend, chat with a stranger, or just spend time with the people you care about offline.
Want more from Dr. Rein…
Check out his website
Hang out with him on Instagram
Buy his amazing book, Why Brains Need Friends
✨ And one quick thing — if this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend. Text it, email it, or post it on social. Connection and community is what this podcast is all about — creating a space where courageous women like you feel seen, supported, and a little less alone.
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