The Marriage Myth: When Science Favors Being Single

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May 14, 2025

Join Megan Keane, NPR’s Life Kit producer and author of 'Party of One,' as she dives into the benefits of being single and challenges societal views on marriage. Explore how redefining relationships can lead to greater fulfillment. Megan discusses the myths surrounding marriage and happiness, the importance of building meaningful friendships, and the impact of social media on our expectations. Learn how to embrace your independence and navigate friendships when loved ones couple up—a refreshing take on living your best life, single or not!

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INSIGHT

Society's Deep Marriage Conditioning

Society reinforces marriage as the ideal life milestone through economic and social incentives.
This conditioning pressures people to couple up, often overlooking alternative fulfilling life paths.

INSIGHT

Marriage's Economic Origins

Marriage historically served as an economic alliance for survival and maintaining wealth.
The modern notion of marrying for love is a relatively recent social shift.

INSIGHT

Social Ties Trump Marriage

Single people often have more diverse social ties than married people, which benefits health and happiness.
Marriage is not uniquely protective; varied social connections matter most for wellbeing.

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Why do we view romantic relationships as the end-all be-all of relationships, and how can we take a more positive and holistic view of our relationships? Today, I’m speaking with NPR’s Life Kit producer and showrunner Meghan Keane about destigmatizing singleness, making the most of your friendships, and reframing marriage and relationships.

What would a world where romantic relationships weren’t seen as the default goal look like? Meghan brings valuable insights on how to live the happiest life you can, regardless of whether or not you meet “the one.”

In this episode, we get into:

How Is Marriage Reenforced Societally?

Are Married People Happier?

Is Venting Unhelpful?

The Relationship Escalator & Marriage

Awareness & Social Media

Building Positivity with ABCs of DBT

Making Single Friends

When Your Friend Enters a Relationship

Living Wider & Deeper

For more from Meghan Keane, find her on Instagram @damekeane or online at www.meghanvkeane.com. Buy Meghan’s insightful book Party of One or listen to NPR’s Life Kit.

Ready to uplevel every part of your life? Order Liz’s book 100 Ways to Change Your Life: The Science of Leveling Up Health, Happiness, Relationships & Success now!

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Connect with Liz on Instagram @lizmoody or online at www.lizmoody.com. Subscribe to the substack by visiting https://lizmoody.substack.com/welcome.

Check out the previous episodes of The Liz Moody Podcast discussed today:

What Everyone Gets Wrong About Self-Care & Burnout (+ What to Do Instead) with Dr. Pooja Lakshmin

How to Figure Out Your Dream Career (And Actually Get It!) with Suzy Welch

Science-Backed Secrets For Making Friends: Become Super Likable, Find Your BEST Friend, & Deepen Relationships with Dr. Marisa G. Franco

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Formerly the Healthier Together Podcast.

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