Remember when having a friend group felt effortless? There was always someone to grab dinner with, a group chat full of plans, and maybe even a standing softball game or BYOB night. So why does finding—and keeping—that kind of group feel so much harder as an adult?

In this episode of The Connection Code, Rachel and Jeana explore the magic and the messiness of friend groups: what brings people together, what pulls them apart, and what it takes to keep showing up for one another as life changes.

They talk about the challenges of distance, busy schedules and group chemistry; the role of the “social chair” who keeps everyone connected; and why shared activities can make friendship easier. Jeana also shares what it’s been like to build new connections after moving to Michigan, while Rachel reflects on the friend groups she’s loved—and the heartbreak of watching one fall apart.

Plus, they get into the ideal size for a gathering, the dynamics of couple friendships, and a conversation about money, friendship and whether two friends need to sit together on a flight.

Whether you’re missing an old group, hoping to find a new one, or wondering how to keep the people you love close, this episode is for you.

Media:

• What Is the Ideal Size of a Get-Together? — the evidence brief drawing on the Canadian Social Connection Survey.
• Expecting Together — the prenatal education and community program we share in show and tell.
• Eventually Ticketing — our season sponsor - use code CONNECT10
• The Instagram post where Adam Grant talks about friendship group size here