
What happens when your career grows… but your friendships feel more complicated? In this episode, I talk with research psychologist and public health scientist Dr. Kimberly Horn, author of Friends Matter for Life, about the hidden social cost of professional success—especially for high-achieving women. We explore why ambitious women can appear socially rich on the outside but feel disconnected on the inside. As responsibilities increase, friend circles often shrink. Invitations slow down. Conversations shift. And sometimes the very competence that fuels success quietly turns into over-functioning, resentment, or loneliness. We talk about: Why career advancement can make friendships feel murkier The “real friend vs. deal friend” dynamic The comparison trap—and how to handle jealousy without shame Over-giving, under-receiving, and what reciprocity actually looks like How to know when a friendship is temporarily “askew” versus truly unhealthy A simple, practical 2-2-1 ritual (2 texts, 2 calls, 1 in-person touchpoint each week) to stay meaningfully connected Friendship isn’t an extra. It’s a health habit. And if you’ve been telling yourself you’ll “get back to it” once things calm down at work, this conversation is your nudge. Special thank you, as always, to my assistant producer, Rebekah Jacobs!