70% of Americans have never eaten with a neighbor. The Surgeon General has declared loneliness an epidemic… with effects comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

This week we had neighbors over for dinner. One of them shared something that stuck with me: "front porch culture vs back porch culture." From the late 1800s to early 1900s, the front porch was America's original social network. Then air conditioning, TV, and cars moved us inside and to the back. We lost the daily friction that made community possible.

Studies show people who eat socially are happier, more trusting, and more engaged. 75% say the best way to connect is sharing a meal. So why don't we do it?

My challenge: invite a neighbor over for a meal. Not for a holiday… just a random Tuesday. Even if you disagree on things. Even if it's awkward. Try anyway. Let me know how it goes in the comments.

📚 REFERENCED RESEARCH

https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf

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CHAPTERS:

0:00 - Intro: Front Porch vs Back Porch 0:45 - The Golden Age of Front Porches 1:15 - Three Things That Killed Community 1:45 - The Loneliness Epidemic in America 2:30 - 70% Have Never Eaten With a Neighbor 3:15 - Our Neighborhood Dinner Experience 4:30 - The Driveway Shoveling Story 6:15 - Working Through Misunderstandings 7:30 - Political Differences at the Dinner Table 8:45 - Why Real Conversations Matter 9:30 - The Challenge: Invite Your Neighbor 10:15 - Touch Grass & Build Real Connection