E27 - Robin Dunbar – The Science of Male Friendship & Why Men Need a Tribe

Why do so many men lose friendships in midlife? And what does science say about the impact of social isolation on male health and well-being?

In this episode Pete Hunt sits down with renowned evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar to explore the biological and social foundations of male friendship. Dunbar, a leading expert in human relationships, explains why men are wired for structured social networks—and why losing them can have serious consequences.

In this episode, Pete and Robin discuss:

• The Male Friendship Crisis – Why friendships decline for men in their 40s and 50s, and how work and family pressures play a role.
• The Social Brain Hypothesis – How our brains evolved to manage complex social groups, and why maintaining friendships is essential for survival.
• Male vs. Female Friendships – Why men bond through activities rather than emotional sharing, and how this affects the longevity of their relationships.
• The Midlife Danger Zone – How loneliness impacts men’s mental and physical health, and why social isolation is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
• The Power of Tribe – How structured networks like Monumental can help men rebuild friendships, strengthen social ties, and rediscover a sense of belonging.
• Redesigning Male Friendships – What the future of male community looks like and how men can take action to strengthen their relationships.

Robin Dunbar’s research sheds light on one of the biggest but least talked-about issues facing modern men: the quiet disappearance of close friendships. In this conversation, he shares powerful insights into how men can reconnect, why tribal bonds matter, and what every man needs to know about maintaining deep, meaningful relationships.

Monumental

The Monumental Network - The Private Network For Growth Focused Leaders

Monumental is a private network for leaders ready to challenge their status quo and grow with purpose that was Founded by Pete Hunt.

Through weekly confidential pod meetings and monthly in-person events, Monumental creates a space where men connect authentically and hold each other accountable.

Here, leaders are free to drop the mask, speak openly, and move beyond isolation.

The Network empowers men to uncover their true potential, cultivate purpose, and leave meaningful legacies.

And we have a lot of fun doing it.

For more information, please click on this link. https://monumental.global/