Make Room for Connection at Work with Dr Michelle Lim

Host Josh Lambert steps in for Tom Bosna and is joined by Dr Michelle Lim, CEO and Scientific Chair of Ending Loneliness Together and author of *The Lonely Generation*. This **Loneliness Awareness Week,** Josh and Michelle explore why loneliness has become one of the biggest health and workplace challenges of our time. They unpack the difference between loneliness and social isolation, why meaningful connection matters, and the impact loneliness can have on our health, workplace culture, productivity and performance. Michelle shares practical ways leaders can create more connected workplaces through everyday moments, rather than relying on one-off initiatives. They also discuss the role of hybrid work, why some people are more at risk of feeling disconnected, and how emerging technologies like AI companions are changing the way we think about human connection. ~ 📍M**edibank Workplace Wellbeing** supports hundreds of Australian workplaces each year through health and wellbeing services, including workplace health checks, skin cancer checks, mental health programs and tailored wellbeing workshops. Learn more about Medibank Workplace Wellbeing here: https://www.medibank.com.au/workplace-wellbeing/health-services/ ¬ 00:32 Why Loneliness Matters 03:47 Loneliness vs Social Isolation 08:24 The Health Impact of Loneliness 13:16 Building Social Connection at Work 18:42 Practical Tips for Leaders 25:11 Hybrid Work and Belonging 31:28 AI Companions and Human Connection 37:05 Small Moments That Matter 42:18 Loneliness Awareness Week ~ **Resources** Loneliness Awareness Week 3-9 August: https://lonelinessawarenessweek.com.au/ Ending Loneliness Together: https://www.endingloneliness.com.au/ Connect with Dr Michelle Lim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichellelim/ Dr Michelle Lim's new book, The Lonely Generation - Why Our Kids Are in Crisis – and How We Can Fix It: https://publishing.hardiegrant.com/en-au/books/the-lonely-generation-by-michelle-lim/9781923390294