Many of us spend years pursuing goals we rarely stop to question. A relationship, marriage, children, career milestones, home ownership — the traditional markers of success can become so deeply embedded in our culture that it becomes difficult to distinguish what we genuinely want from what we've been taught to want. Drawing on her TEDx talk, The Silent Epidemic of Modern Singlehood, Aimee Barnes explores the growing number of people who find themselves living outside conventional life scripts and the social pressures that often accompany that reality. The conversation moves far beyond dating and relationships to examine identity, loneliness, belonging, community, self-agency, and the importance of defining success on our own terms. Together, we discuss why connection matters more than relationship status, how changemakers can resist the pressure to conform to external expectations, and what it means to create a life that genuinely aligns with our values rather than society's assumptions about what a meaningful life should look like. About Our Guest: Aimee Barnes is a psychotherapist, coach, wellness educator, and founder of Ganbaru Wellness. Drawing on her background in psychotherapy, breathwork, meditation, and personal development, Aimee works with individuals, schools, organisations, and retreat participants to help people build resilience, strengthen their mental wellbeing, and reconnect with themselves. Her work combines evidence-based psychological approaches with holistic wellbeing practices, creating accessible tools for navigating anxiety, self-doubt, life transitions, and personal growth. Aimee is also the creator of the TEDx Talk The Silent Epidemic of Modern Singlehood, which explores the changing realities of modern relationships, identity, and belonging, and challenges conventional assumptions about success, fulfilment, and the paths people choose through life. Through her writing, speaking, retreats, and educational programs, she encourages people to cultivate greater self-awareness and build lives that reflect their authentic values rather than external expectations. 📰 Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode here. Join the Changemaker Q&A Community & ASK YOUR QUESTIONS HERE 💬 If you find this podcast valuable, it would really help us out to leave a rating & review wherever you're listening. Social Impact Foundations FREE Training Bundle Follow HCN on Instagram @humanitarianchangemakers Follow Tiyana on Instagram: @tiyanaj The views expressed in this podcast are those of Tiyana J & guests and are not reflective of all members of the Humanitarian Changemakers Network.
