Why connection feels harder than ever (and what we’re getting wrong) | Francesca Tighinean | #060 Mastering Change

We’re living through a loneliness epidemic – and it’s not for lack of connection. On this episode of Mastering Change, Francesca Tighinean explores why, despite being more digitally connected than ever, so many people feel increasingly isolated and unsure how to build real relationships. She points to a deeper shift. With constant exposure to social media, global events and information, many people – particularly younger generations – no longer feel safe enough to take the risks that connection requires. Instead, self-protection takes over. Increasingly, people are avoiding discomfort altogether – cutting others off rather than working through conflict. Francesca challenges this directly, discussing what it actually takes to build connection today – and why it’s often less comfortable than we’d like. She also touches on a quieter, underlying issue: purpose. We explore Why connection feels harder in the modern world  The shift towards avoidance in relationships  Why nuance matters more than ever  What community really requires  A quieter, underlying issue: purpose. This episode is a timely reflection on how we relate and what it might take to reconnect. Moment of Care: This episode discusses sensitive episodes related to trauma, mental health and distressing experiences. If you feel triggered at any point, please take a moment to check in with yourself and seek support. Watch this episode on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/masteringchangepodcastFollow us on instagram: www.instagram.com/masterseventsltdVisit mastersevents.com/oxford-2026 for more details.