Connection, Creativity, and the Mental Health Crisis: Am I Doing This Right?

I don’t have all the answers—let’s just start there.

But here’s what I do know: we’re in the middle of a mental health crisis, and no amount of inspirational quotes on Instagram is going to fix it. We’re more connected than ever (thanks, internet), but somehow, we’ve never felt lonelier. I feel it in myself, in the people I love, and in almost every conversation I have.

And here’s the kicker: loneliness isn’t just sad—it’s dangerous. Studies are calling it a public health epidemic (yep, right up there with smoking and obesity). So while I don’t have the perfect solution, I do have questions. Like:

• What are we doing about this?

• Why does no one talk about it until it’s a TED Talk or a documentary?

• And seriously, why is it so hard to just sit down and have a real conversation anymore?

For me, connection isn’t about networking or surface-level chit-chat (I’m horrible at both, by the way). It’s about something deeper—being seen, heard, and valued for who you actually are, not just the version you’re presenting to the world.

• Charlie Ryback of Downtown Voices is amplifying stories that make you stop and think. He’s not just telling stories—he’s reminding people why their voice matters.

• Roger Cummings at Juxtaposition Arts is bridging creativity, mission, and youth in ways that make me want to high-five everyone in his orbit. He’s proof that art isn’t just pretty—it’s powerful.

• Payton, who brought his New York energy back to Minneapolis, is channeling all that creative momentum into Anne Ahmed’s restaurants. He’s proof that collaboration and bold ideas thrive here.

• And Alyssa Carlson from Engel & Völkers has this magical ability to connect dots between her passion for unique ideas and her brilliance in business. She’s the person who makes you think, Maybe I should dream bigger.

Here’s the thing: these people aren’t just creating cool things—they’re building bridges. They’re proof that connection isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.

I’ve been thinking a lot about why this matters so much. The truth is, loneliness and disconnection are killing us—literally. The Journal of the American Medical Association found that loneliness increases your risk of premature death by 26%. (So yeah, maybe check in on that friend who “hates people” but secretly wants a coffee date.)

And no, I don’t have the perfect answer. But I think it starts with showing up. Asking questions. Creating spaces where people can just...exist.

Because the opposite of loneliness isn’t just being surrounded by people—it’s being seen.

If you’ve ever worked with me, you know I love connecting dots—people, ideas, random conversations that spark something bigger. It’s the one thing I never get tired of, because I believe that when the right people come together, magic happens.

And maybe that’s why I care so much about this mental health crisis. Because connection isn’t just a feel-good idea—it’s a solution. It’s the thing that keeps us grounded, human, and hopeful.

So no, I don’t have all the answers. But I do know this: we’re better together. And if I can play a small part in helping people connect, dream bigger, and feel a little less alone, then maybe I’m doing something right.

So here’s my question for you: how can you create connection today? Maybe it’s texting that friend you’ve been “too busy” to reach out to. Or asking your co-worker how they’re really doing. Or simply taking a moment to pause and see the people around you.

Because the solution to loneliness isn’t a big, shiny idea—it’s showing up, one connection at a time.

And if you have any answers (or more questions), I’m all ears.