The Power of Connection: Building Confidence and Camaraderie in Women’s Sports - Dr Joan EP044

For years, Dr. Joan Steidinger watched as women’s natural focus on relationships was misunderstood—even pathologized.

Inspired by the cultural impact of books like Women Who Love Too Much in the 1980s and 90s, she felt frustrated by the notion that women’s relational strengths were seen as problems rather than strengths.

Determined to change the narrative, Dr. Steidinger decided to write her own book—one that would celebrate women’s connection-oriented approach through the world of sports, particularly running.

Through research, she discovered that, contrary to stereotypes, women didn’t simply talk more than men—they talked more about relationships. With her work, Dr. Steidinger aims to normalize and honor the relationship focus of women, showing it as a source of power and community, not a weakness.