DiscoverCultivating H.E.R. Space: Uplifting Conversations for the Black WomanWhy We Need Community More Than Ever and How to Start Building One
Why We Need Community More Than Ever and How to Start Building One

Why We Need Community More Than Ever and How to Start Building One

Update: 2025-04-11
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The "Cultivating Her Space" podcast tackles the prevalent issue of loneliness, particularly in the US. The episode emphasizes the importance of building meaningful community, not just belonging to a group. It introduces the "Soulful Connection Check-in," a self-reflection process to understand personal needs and capacity for connection before seeking out relationships. Seven practical steps for building community are presented: join activities you enjoy, reconnect with old friends, try new things, start small, reach out first, integrate connection into your routine, and remember that even one new connection matters. The podcast also features a sponsored segment promoting the "Field" app, designed for fostering deeper connections. The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to participate in the after-show for further discussion and resources.

Outlines

00:00:00
Introduction & Combating Loneliness

The podcast introduces the topic of loneliness and its impact, highlighting the importance of community and shared activities for building meaningful connections. The "Soulful Connection Check-in" is introduced as a key element for self-reflection before building community.

00:09:35
Self-Reflection & Community Building Strategies

This section focuses on the "Soulful Connection Check-in," guiding listeners to understand their needs and capacity for connection. Seven practical strategies for building community are detailed, emphasizing the importance of intentional actions and starting small.

00:24:33
Field App & Conclusion

A sponsored segment promotes the "Field" app, followed by a recap of the seven community-building tips and an invitation to the after-show for further discussion and resources.

Keywords

Loneliness


A feeling of isolation and lack of connection, impacting mental and physical well-being. High rates are reported in the US.

Community Building


The process of creating supportive social networks through intentional actions like joining groups and reaching out to others.

Soulful Connection


Deep, meaningful connections based on shared values and genuine emotional intimacy.

Intentional Connection


Actively seeking and nurturing relationships with people who align with your values and goals.

Social Isolation


Limited social interaction contributing to loneliness and negatively impacting mental health.

Field App


A social connection app designed to foster deeper relationships beyond traditional dating apps.

Community


A group of people with a shared interest or goal.

Connection


The state of being linked or associated.

Q&A

  • What are some practical steps I can take today to start building a stronger sense of community?

    Start small! Join a group related to a hobby, reach out to a past friend, or initiate a conversation.

  • How can I overcome the awkwardness of reaching out to new people?

    Remember that the awkwardness is often in your head. Focus on potential benefits and don't take rejection personally.

  • How do I balance building community with existing commitments?

    Build community into your rhythm. Schedule time for connection, even if it's just a few minutes each day.

  • What is the "Soulful Connection Check-in," and why is it important?

    It's a self-reflection process to understand your needs and capacity for connection before seeking external relationships.

  • What if I'm struggling with loneliness and feel like there's no one like me?

    Remember you are not alone. Focus on building one meaningful connection.

Show Notes

Hey lady! It’s strange times filled with a lot of uncertainty but one thing we know for sure is that we will get through all of this with strong community. This week Dr. Dom and Terri discuss some of the factors that got us to reckon with the fact that there is an uprising of people reporting feelings of loneliness and being alone. While those are natural feelings from time to time you can mitigate them long-term with a strong diverse community. We’re not talking about people you can post on Instagram, although that can be a part of it, we’re talking about the relationships that you intentionally cultivate that fit perfectly with your life. Are you a budding yogi and find it a central part of your self-care practice? There is someone out there with the same interest. Do you crave differing perspectives and rigorous debate about ideology? There’s a community out there waiting for you to join them.

The truth is while loneliness may be on the rise, there are people out there for you. And, as the world continues to reel from massive changes finding people that get you and care about you will be all the more necessary. Do yourself a favor a tune in to today’s episode for practical tools on building your community. Some of these may stretch you or push you or feel edgy, but that is the work. It’s putting your authentic self out there so that your people can find you. If you’re ready to dig deeper you won’t want to miss the opportunity to get Dr. Dom and Terri’s precise questions to help you dream up and call in the relationships that will fulfill you. They are in our Patreon. Are you a member yet? Girl, if you aren’t you are missing out! We connect as an online community with not only exclusive content, but access to members only resources and first dibs on community events. Join us! We’re cultivating a space for us while building them in our real lives! We love you, sis! 

Seven Ways to Build or Deepen Community 
1. Join something you genuinely love 
Real talk: The easiest way to find aligned people is to go where your joy lives.  

2. Reconnect with someone from your past 
 Real talk: Some of the most beautiful friendships are waiting for a simple “hey, I miss you.”  

3. Try something new—even if it feels awkward 
 Real talk: The most aligned people are often waiting just outside your comfort zone.  

4. Start something small—but intentional 
 Real talk: Community doesn’t have to be a big production. Start where you are.  

5. Be the person who reaches out first 
Real talk: Waiting on someone to invite you might mean missing out on the connection you need.  

6. Build connection into your rhythm 
 Real talk: If you want community, you have to make room for it.  

7. Don’t underestimate the power of one 
 Real talk: You don’t need a huge friend group. You need one aligned connection to start your community.  

Quote of the Day:
"Community is much more than belonging to something. It's about doing something together that makes belonging matter."
– Unknown  

One of our sponsors for this week is Feeld (like field, but with two E’s). Tired of dates that feel like interviews? Same. In 2025, we’re showing up as our full, unfiltered selves, and Feeld makes space for that. Whether you’re into open relationships, cuddling, just moved to a new city and wanna find your people, or you're traveling and hoping to connect, this is the app for it.   Feeld is where curious, open-minded, and playful folks come to connect.  

No ads. No pressure. Just vibes.  

Download Feeld on the

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Why We Need Community More Than Ever and How to Start Building One

Why We Need Community More Than Ever and How to Start Building One

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