In this enlightening episode of Bridging the Gap, Matt Reiner hosts Ryan Jenkins where they delve into the intricate interplay between technology and generational dynamics, shedding light on how advancements are reshaping boundaries while also fostering subgroup distinctions within generations. Seamlessly transitioning into a poignant exploration of loneliness, they unveil its pervasive impact on mental health, transcending generational divides to affect individuals universally. As they dissect the biological signals driving humans to seek connection, they underscore loneliness’s profound influence on both mental and physical well-being.

Throughout the discussion, Ryan and Matt illuminate the pivotal role of businesses in combating loneliness, particularly within the workplace, where a staggering 72% of the workforce is affected. They offer actionable strategies for fostering connection and nurturing inclusivity, advocating for prioritizing meaningful interactions and ensuring clear roles and directives for every team member. Urging proactive measures to address mental health concerns, Ryan underscores the necessity of creating supportive environments that prioritize employee well-being.

They provide practical steps for individuals and leaders to combat loneliness, such as sharing personal stories or organizing team-building activities, to foster deeper connections and engagement. In alignment with their insights, they highlight actionable takeaways such as cultivate intentional connections, creating clear roles and directives, and address and normalize discussions on loneliness. As the conversation draws to a close, Ryan and Matt stress the paramount importance of social connection, labeling it as fundamental to human health and wellness. This episode is not one to miss!  

Timestamps From This Episode

[17:16] Connection is felt, communication is merely dealt. Embrace deep connection, avoid social snacking.

[20:37] Loneliness affects executive function in the brain, impacting the frontal lobe and the capacity to plan, organize, and achieve goals. This psychological phenomenon prompts individuals to seek reasons outside of themselves when in fact, the root cause lies within the brain’s mechanisms.

[24:08] Addressing loneliness, its impact on work and relationships, and the importance of helping others navigate it.

[36:45] Strategies for addressing workplace loneliness and discomfort, including mental health support.

[39:11] Proactively build cultures of connectivity for stronger connections with colleagues and clients through specific actions and communication strategies.

[44:42] Humans possess a unique biological feature, the sclera, which is the whites of our eyes. This distinct feature serves as a reminder of our need for connection. Unlike other animals, humans have highly pronounced sclera, suggesting that our biology or creator has placed a bet on our safety and well-being being dependent on connection.

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About the Show

Bridging the Gap is a financial podcast hosted by CEO Matt Reiner focused on bringing together leaders from the finance and the technology industries to focus on innovating the financial services industry.

Host

Matt Reiner, CFA, CFP®

I’ve been fortunate to be around the wealth management business for over 25 years. Along with this, I’m also the CEO of a tech startup. These experiences have given me a bird’s eye view of both the technology and financial services spaces.

Guest

Ryan Jenkins , Bestselling Leadership Author, Keynote Speaker, and #1 Thought Leader on Team Connection

Ryan Jenkins is a Keynote Speaker, Trainer, and Consultant who helps organizations improve team connection, optimize generational dynamics, and prepare for the future of work. He has over 12 years of experience in delivering engaging and impactful presentations and training programs to diverse and global audiences. He is also a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), a prestigious credential that only 12% of speakers worldwide hold.

Ryan is the Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author of Connectable: How Leaders Can Move Teams From Isolated to All In, the world's first book to address workplace loneliness and its effects on performance, engagement, and retention.

He is also a co-founder of ConnectionMadeEasy.com, a premier resource for strengthening team connections, and a partner at WorkRivet.com, an AI-powered platform that intelligently matches co-workers to cultivate better 1-on-1 relationships. Ryan's insights have been featured in Forbes, Fortune, Fast Company, and Psychology Today. He is passionate about empowering leaders and teams to thrive in the new era of work.