As you go about your day, you likely interact with family, friends and coworkers. These relationships can help you feel cared for and connected. But what if there’s a whole category of people in your life whose impact is overlooked? Today, in a favorite episode from our archives, psychologist Gillian Sandstrom reveals some simple ways to make your life a little more joyful and maybe even a little less lonely. Then, we talk with researcher Erica Bailey, who responds to listeners' questions about authenticity and how to reveal our true selves to the people around us.

In this episode you'll learn:

• The sociological concept of "weak" and "strong" ties, and the important roles they play in our lives.
• How "weak ties" contribute to our happiness.
• How to talk to strangers — including how to start, maintain, and end a conversation.
• How to decrease feelings of loneliness and increase feelings of connectivity in your daily life.

If you enjoyed today's conversation with Gillian Sandstrom, be sure to check out these other Hidden Brain episodes:

You 2.0: The Gift of Other People

How Others See You