Julianne Holt-Lunstad
This week on the Bountifull Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, professor of psychology and neuroscience, and one of the world’s leading researchers on social connection. Julianne’s work has shaped global public health policy and sparked a deeper understanding of why our relationships matter—not just emotionally, but physically, cognitively, and even biologically.
Together, we explore the science behind connection—why it matters, what it’s made of, and how loneliness, isolation, and friendship shape our lives in ways we often overlook. We talk about the health risks of loneliness (yes, they’re real), why it’s hard to make friends as an adult, and how to assess and strengthen your own relationships using her concentric circles activity. This episode is both thoughtful and practical—a reminder that social connection isn’t a luxury, it’s a cornerstone of a full, rich, bountiful life.
Guest Bio:
Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, and director of the Social Connection & Health Lab. Her groundbreaking research on social connection has been pivotal in shifting global understanding of loneliness and isolation—from emotional experiences to urgent public health issues.
Julianne served as the lead scientific editor for the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, and advises organisations from the World Health Organization to the U.S. Congress. With more than two decades of research and advocacy, she’s become one of the most influential voices on how relationships shape our health, well-being, and society.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
📚 What Capitalism Actually Is – Dirk breaks down the origins of capitalism, why it depends on endless growth, and how it became the dominant system shaping our world.
🧠 How Capitalism Impacts Well-Being – From loneliness to burnout to housing insecurity, Dirk explains the subtle and not-so-subtle ways our economic system affects our health and relationships.
💬 Why GDP Is a Terrible Measure of Success – A closer look at Dirk’s book The Little Big Number and why GDP rewards destruction but ignores care, joy, and community.
🌱 What It Means to Thrive – How we can move beyond survival and into dignity, security, and contribution—not just individually, but as a collective.
📊 Alternative Models and Practical Ideas – From 15-minute cities to public goods, Dirk shares real-world examples of systems that prioritise well-being over profit.
💛 How to Align Your Life with Your Values – Tips on redefining success, spending intentionally, and reconnecting with what really matters.
🌍 Radical Hope and the Possibility of a Post-Capitalist Future – Why abundance isn’t about having more—it’s about sharing more, caring more, and reimagining what we’re here for.