Have you ever wondered why making friends as an adult feels so much harder than it used to? When we were younger, friendships seemed to just happen. Now, between work, family, busy schedules, and life in general, finding—and keeping—close friends can take a little more effort.In this episode of Wondering About, we’re wondering about adult friendship. Why is it harder to make friends as we get older? How many hours does it actually take to turn an acquaintance into a real friend? Where are adults supposed to meet new people? And what does the research say about why friendship is so important to our happiness and well-being?We dig into the research, share some of our own friendship experiences, and talk about what it really takes to make meaningful connections in adulthood.Because apparently finding your people after 40 might require more than just sitting next to someone on the playground.Come wonder with us!Citations: "Hall, J. A. (2019). How many hours does it take to make a friend? Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 36(4), 1278–1296. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407518761225""Soeiro, L. (2025, July). Why making friends as an adult is so hard. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/i-...why-making-friends-as-an-adult-is-so-hard""Hatmaker, J. (2025, February 26). How to make friends as an adult: 7 ways to find your people. Jen Hatmaker. https://jenhatmaker.com/blog/how-to-make-friends-as-an-adult-7-ways-to-find-your-people/"