Deal Friends vs. Real Friends—The Midlife Sort episode artwork

EPISODE · Nov 5, 2025 · 46 MIN

Deal Friends vs. Real Friends—The Midlife Sort

from Midlife Circus · host Brent Drever & Rob Espenel

Message the ShowIn this conversation, Rob and Brent discuss Brent's upcoming triathlon and the challenges of training for it. They then transition into a deeper discussion about friendships, particularly the differences between 'deal friends' and 'real friends' as Brent reflects on his experiences after leaving his last company. The conversation highlights the loneliness that can accompany such transitions and offers insights on rekindling connections and the importance of maintaining relationships beyond work.Links, resources, books mentioned:Visit Episode WebsiteNewsletter Sign UpFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeFrom Strength to Strength — Arthur C. Brooks (This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.)Topics we are covering in this episode:Training for a triathlon can be both challenging and enjoyable.Active recovery is essential for athletes during training.Friendships often change after leaving a work environment.'Deal friends' are often transactional, while 'real friends' are supportive without dependency.Loneliness can set in after retirement due to lack of daily interactions.Reaching out to old friends can rekindle valuable relationships.It's important to take inventory of your friendships as you transition in life.People are often more open to reconnecting than you might expect.Making an effort to connect can lead to rewarding relationships.Embrace the transition and be open to new friendships.

Message the Show In this conversation, Rob and Brent discuss Brent's upcoming triathlon and the challenges of training for it. They then transition into a deeper discussion about friendships, particularly the differences between 'deal friends' and 'real friends' as Brent reflects on his experiences after leaving his last company. The conversation highlights the loneliness that can accompany such transitions and offers insights on rekindling connections and the importance of maintaining relati...

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Deal Friends vs. Real Friends—The Midlife Sort

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Not My Circus Henrik Flyman (Wavlake) Composed, written, performed and produced by Henrik Flyman. Michelle Sukow Michelle Sukow Michelle is a Restart Coach & Midlife Champion inspiring others to succeed both personally and professionally by encouraging confidence and strength to those who feel like they are stuck and want to take back control of their life. She also shares her story and what this upcoming Podcast will offer 50ish & Fab: The Hot Flash Report KC Sonshine - Your Southern Sweet Tea with a Splash of BROOKLYN! Welcome to 50ish & Fab: The Hot Flash Report — the unapologetic, hilarious, and heart-to-heart podcast for women embracing the fabulousness of life after 50 (and ambitious 40-somethings dreaming of the good life!). Hosted by the witty and warm KC Sonshine, a Brooklyn girl with a little southern charm, this show dives into the messy, magical, and marvelous world of midlife women, menopause, dating, relationships, grandparenting, faith, and living your best life after 50. Because growing old gracefully is cute, but THRIVING after 50 is FABULOUS! pick up books lishusheng adventure:In the Bishop's Carriage By: Miriam Michelson (1870-1942)The Milky Way By: F. Tennyson Jesse (1888-1958)The Heritage Of The Desert By: Zane Grey (1872-1939)Toby Tyler or Ten Weeks with a Circus By: James Otis (1848-1912)The Merry Anne By: Samuel Merwin (1874-1936)Uncle Bernac: A Memory of the Empire By: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930)Lysbeth, a Tale of the Dutch By: H. Rider Haggard (1856-1925)The Lord of Death and the Queen of Life By: Homer Eon Flint (1888-1924)The Confessions of Arsene Lupin By: Maurice Leblanc (1864-1941)The Brethren By: H. Rider Haggard (1856-1925)The Missing Bride By: E.D.E.N. Southworth (1819-1899)The Ebb-Tide By: Robert Louis Stevenson and Lloyd Osbourne (1850-1894)The Well at the World's End, Book 1: The Road unto Love By: William Morris (1834-1896)Galaxy Primes By: E. E. Smith (1890-1965)Camp-Fire Girls in the Country or The Secret Aunt Hannah Forgot By: Ste

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How long is this episode of Midlife Circus?

This episode is 46 minutes long.

When was this Midlife Circus episode published?

This episode was published on November 5, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Message the ShowIn this conversation, Rob and Brent discuss Brent's upcoming triathlon and the challenges of training for it. They then transition into a deeper discussion about friendships, particularly the differences between 'deal friends' and...

Is there a transcript available for this episode?

Yes, a full transcript is available for this episode. You can read the complete transcript on the episode page.

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