Why “going analog” isn’t enough to make new friends: the rise of curated socializing

Why “going analog” isn’t enough to make new friends: the rise of curated socializing

May 21, 2026 · 16 min · Season 7 · Episode 14

About this episode

Danielle discusses the trend of curated socializing and what women need to make friends offline.

You've seen the articles. You've heard the discourse. People are pulling away from the digital sphere and opting for in-person connection instead: ditching dating apps, skipping the DMs, going analog. Google searches for "matchmaker near me" and "dating coach" are higher right now than they've been in the past ten years. But here's the part that isn't getting enough attention: how people are making this shift. And the answer is far more curated than you'd expect. In this solo episode, Danielle breaks down the rise of “connection concierges” — friendship coaches, speed friending events, and supper clubs — and what this trend reveals about what women actually need when they're trying to make friends offline. She also walks through three things to consider before you invest in a curated social experience, including how to get specific about what you're looking for so you don't leave disappointed. 🎧 BUT WAIT… THERE'S MORE. This week's Office Hours bonus content picks up right where this episode leaves off: Danielle shares three things gatherers and unofficial social connectors can do to meet this moment. Practical shifts for anyone who hosts dinners, book clubs, or get-togethers and…

More episodes of Friend Forward

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Friend Forward podcast page.