Friendship is one of life’s greatest joys—and sometimes one of its hardest challenges. Friendships Unplugged is a podcast about adult friendships, authentic connections, and the ups and downs of human relationships.
Each episode dives into real stories and honest conversations about what it takes to make friends as an adult, set healthy boundaries, navigate conflict, and even let go of toxic friendships. We explore the laughter, the awkwardness, and the personal growth that come with building and sustaining close relationships.
If you’ve ever wondered how to find belonging, strengthen trust or hold lasting friendships, this podcast is for you. No clichés, no filters—just thoughtful reflections on what friendship really looks like in everyday life.
Unplug from the noise and join us as we explore the truth about connection, vulnerability, and the friendships that shape who we are.
In this episode, host Iris and guest Silvia discuss how they met at work via a mutual friend, bonding over shared interests (cars, dogs, living abroad, building houses) and initially “checking each other out” before connecting more deeply. They contrast superficial socializing with deeper connection, noting extrovert/introvert energy differences. Silvia describes maintaining about 10 long-term close friendships even with infrequent contact, and explains how new friendships formed through shar...
17 Mar 2026
Jess: Navigating Loneliness and making Connections
On this episode, host Iris interviews Jess, a listener who responded to a social media call for people who struggle with loneliness. Jess describes how ending a 14-year friendship left her spiraling, lonely, and without her “person,” though loneliness has been intermittent throughout her life. She says she is generally liked and can easily socialize, but connections rarely deepen beyond acquaintances, and she feels forgettable despite strong values, directness, and political passion. They dis...
2 Mar 2026
Rogier: intention and effort in friendships
Iris interviews her friend Rogier, who flew from the Netherlands to Switzerland especially to record the podcast episode. They recount meeting as colleagues at a technology company and becoming friends after Iris drove to Austria to meet Rogier’s wife and newborn, leading to a tradition of family visits. Rogier values friendships that bring energy, growth, new perspectives, and depth beyond superficial conversation, and says friendships often fade when there isn’t enough shared directio...
26 Nov 2025
Fiona: asking for what you need in a friendship
In this episode of 'Friendships Unplugged,' Fiona and Iris explore the dynamics of adult friendships, starting with their story of meeting as colleagues in Switzerland. Despite initial disagreements and personality differences, their mutual respect and dedication to their work fostered a lasting friendship. The conversation touches on the challenges and rewards of maintaining meaningful relationships, especially during times of personal growth and hardship. Fiona recounts their shared experie...
11 Nov 2025
Manu: sister from another mister
In this lively episode of 'Friendships Unplugged,' the host welcomes Manu, one of her oldest and closest friends, to delve into their 26-year-long friendship. They recount hilarious and heartwarming memories, like meeting on a train, stealing a Christmas tree for a party, and facing life’s ups and downs together. Manu shares her perspective on what makes a friendship last, emphasizing mutual effort, kindness, and listening to your gut. The host and Manu discuss how they've learned from each o...
30 Oct 2025
Neil: a friendship tale about dark humour, singing cowboys and showing up for one another
In this episode of Friendships Unplugged, Iris and Neil dive deep into what friendship really means for them in todays world. Over laughter and honest reflection, they unpack stories from their own decade-long friendship — from the moments that tested them to the ones that brought them closer. Together, they explore why genuine connection takes intention, how differences can strengthen bonds, and why social media often leaves us feeling more isolated than inspired. They also tackle big questi...
9 Oct 2025
Annuschka: Candor, quirks and cat funerals
In this episode of 'Friendships Unplugged,' our host welcomes Annuschka to discuss the evolution of their 18-year-long friendship, which began at work and flourished into a wonderful, supportive friendship even accross different countries in Europe. They dive deep into what makes their friendship unique, from their individual and cultural dynamics to the precious and lasting bond they share together and as a group with others, cultivated through acceptance, mutual respect, and humor. Annuschk...
24 Sept 2025
Tracey: Falling out of a pub and into friendship
This episode is featuring a conversation between the host and Tracey, her ex-boss who became a close friend. They discuss how falling flat on your face (figuratively) can end up in a wonderful decade-long friendship, the importance of shared values and humor, and the necessity of trust and vulnerability in building strong relationships. They recount how their unique dynamic, formed across different countries and age gaps, led to a deep bond. The discussion also touches on the impact of life e...
8 Sept 2025
Cecilia: Pursuing Friendship
In this episode of 'Friendships Unplugged,' the host and her longtime friend Cecilia discuss the contemporary loneliness crisis despite the era of hyperconnectivity. They reflect on their 17-year friendship, sharing anecdotes from their time in Ireland and exploring the nuances of what makes and sustains deep friendships. The conversation covers the intentional pursuit of friendships, balancing introverted tendencies, and the dynamics of maintaining relationships through different life ...
25 Aug 2025
Martin: Building Trust and Deep Friendships
In the inaugural episode of 'Friendships Unplugged,' host Iris welcomes one of her closest friends, Martin, to discuss the nature of deep, long-lasting friendships. They tackle the loneliness crisis, the importance of trust, and how to cultivate meaningful relationships. Iris is emphasizing the need for more genuine connections in an increasingly isolated world. Together, they reminisce about their own friendship journey, including wild adventures and heartfelt moments, while offering insight...
25 Aug 2025
Iris Introduction Episode: Navigating the Loneliness Crisis Through Real Connections
In the introductory episode of 'Friendships Unplugged,' host Iris discusses the widespread loneliness crisis and her motivation for starting the podcast. Emphasizing the importance of intentional friendships, Iris shares her personal experiences and observations, aiming to foster deeper connections among listeners. She critiques the lack of resources on forming friendships despite their crucial role in mental health, contrasting it with abundant material on romantic and business relationships...
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