What is a Good Life? What is a Good Life? #157 - How to Build Real Connection with Matt Zeigler
Jan 13, 2026
In this engaging conversation, Matt Zeigler, Managing Director at Sunpointe Investments and co-owner of Excess Returns, shares his transformative journey from disconnection to meaningful connections in family, work, and community. He reflects on the pivotal therapy moment that taught him the importance of vulnerability and authentic sharing. Matt introduces his model of three cultural domains and discusses how small acts of openness can build lasting friendships. He emphasizes the value of intentional experiences in creating a fulfilling life.
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Three Layers Where Disconnection Manifests
- Disconnection shows up across three recurring cultural domains: family, work, and community.
- Matt sees nearly everything that matters in life fitting into those three interlocking layers.
Therapist Moment That Changed Sharing
- In therapy Matt realized he couldn't outsource friendship to his therapist and needed to open up to others.
- That session prompted him to start sharing with three people, which led to deeper reciprocal relationships.
How A Sweet‑16 Gig Led To Family Reconnection
- Matt reconnected with a girl he briefly knew at 16 and she later became his wife after reconnecting decades later.
- Moving back to their hometown let them rebuild family, work, and community bridges with deep overlapping history.
