Connectedness

Fernanda Brasileiro

Connectedness is a podcast about the magic and mess of being human together. Hosted by Fernanda, founder of Filled Cups, this show dives into the real, vulnerable, and often bumpy journey of building meaningful relationships - platonically, romantically, and with yourself. Expect thoughtful solo episodes, heart-opening stories from real people, and practical tools to help you show up fully in your relationships and build a fulfilling life.

  1. 5D AGO

    Ep 25: How to Overcome Social Anxiety | Therapist Explains

    In this episode of Connectedness, we explore social anxiety—what it really is, where it comes from, and how to begin overcoming it. Joined by psychotherapist Danielle Frouws https://daniellefrouws.com/, we break down the difference between shyness and social anxiety, why so many people struggle with fear of judgment, and what’s actually happening in your mind and body during anxious social moments. Danielle also shares both professional insight and personal experience with social anxiety, offering practical tools you can start using right away—from grounding techniques and mindset shifts to exposure-based strategies that help you build confidence over time. If you’ve ever overthought a conversation, avoided social situations, or felt like social anxiety is just “who you are,” this episode will help you understand that change is possible—and give you a path forward. What social anxiety actually is (and how it’s different from shyness) Why fear of judgment feels so intense Common thought patterns and physical symptoms How avoidance makes anxiety worse over time Practical tools to manage anxiety in the moment How to gradually build confidence through exposure Why social anxiety doesn’t have to define you Whether your anxiety is mild or more intense, this conversation is designed to leave you feeling empowered, understood, and less alone. 🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward feeling more confident and connected. #SocialAnxiety #MentalHealth #SelfGrowth #AnxietyHelp #Therapy #Confidence #ConnectednessPodcast

    29 min
  2. FEB 8

    Ep 21-part 2: Friendship Coach Zayne helps us Unpack the Art of Making Friends

    Why is making friends as an adult so hard?In this episode of Connectedness, I’m joined by Zayne for an honest, thoughtful conversation about adult friendships, loneliness, and what it really takes to build meaningful connection later in life. We talk about why friendships often fade as responsibilities grow, the emotional barriers that keep people disconnected, and why so many adults quietly struggle with loneliness. Zayne shares personal insights on social anxiety, fear of rejection, and how past friendship experiences shape the way we show up today. Rather than offering quick fixes, this episode explores friendship as a skill—something we were never taught, but can learn with intention, self-awareness, and compassion. If you’ve ever felt awkward reaching out, unsure how to deepen friendships, or wondered if something is “wrong” with you for feeling lonely, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we discuss: Why adult friendships feel harder than they used to Loneliness, shame, and the unspoken struggle to admit disconnection Emotional blocks like fear, awkwardness, and past friendship wounds What healthy, realistic adult friendships actually look like Small mindset shifts that make connection feel more possible This episode is for anyone craving deeper connection—and reassurance that you’re not alone in feeling this way. 🎧 Listen, reflect, and share with someone who might need it.

    23 min
  3. FEB 7

    Ep 21: Friendship Coach Zayne helps us Unpack the Art of Making Friends - part 1

    Why is making friends as an adult so hard?In this episode of Connectedness, I’m joined by Zayne for an honest, thoughtful conversation about adult friendships, loneliness, and what it really takes to build meaningful connection later in life. We talk about why friendships often fade as responsibilities grow, the emotional barriers that keep people disconnected, and why so many adults quietly struggle with loneliness. Zayne shares personal insights on social anxiety, fear of rejection, and how past friendship experiences shape the way we show up today. Rather than offering quick fixes, this episode explores friendship as a skill—something we were never taught, but can learn with intention, self-awareness, and compassion. If you’ve ever felt awkward reaching out, unsure how to deepen friendships, or wondered if something is “wrong” with you for feeling lonely, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we discuss: Why adult friendships feel harder than they used to Loneliness, shame, and the unspoken struggle to admit disconnection Emotional blocks like fear, awkwardness, and past friendship wounds What healthy, realistic adult friendships actually look like Small mindset shifts that make connection feel more possible This episode is for anyone craving deeper connection—and reassurance that you’re not alone in feeling this way. 🎧 Listen, reflect, and share with someone who might need it.

    21 min
  4. JAN 29

    Ep. 20: What Went Right Series- Jenny & Tony's Online Dating Meet Cute

    What actually makes online dating work? In this episode, we sit down with Tony and Jenny, a real-life couple who met through online dating 13 years ago and are still going strong. Together, we break down what went right in their dating experience—and what modern daters can learn from it today. We dive into the importance of being specific and intentional in your dating profile to attract the right matches, not just more matches. Tony and Jenny share honest insights about dating when one partner has kids, navigating co-parenting dynamics, and building trust while blending lives. We also explore how they discovered their shared values, communicated expectations early on, and recognized healthy attachment styles in each other. Whether you’re online dating for the first time, dating after divorce, or trying to build a more secure and aligned relationship, this episode offers practical dating advice, real relationship lessons, and a refreshing success story from the world of online dating. 🎧 Topics covered in this episode: Online dating success stories How to write a dating profile that attracts the right person Early dating phase while co-parenting with an Ex Identifying shared values in relationships Attachment styles and emotional compatibility Building healthy, long-term relationships If you’re looking for honest conversations about love, dating, and relationships—this one’s for you.

    41 min

About

Connectedness is a podcast about the magic and mess of being human together. Hosted by Fernanda, founder of Filled Cups, this show dives into the real, vulnerable, and often bumpy journey of building meaningful relationships - platonically, romantically, and with yourself. Expect thoughtful solo episodes, heart-opening stories from real people, and practical tools to help you show up fully in your relationships and build a fulfilling life.