As part of our special April series on faith, meaning, and human connection, I sit down with Dr. Michael F. Steger, professor of psychology and founding director of the Center for Meaning and Purpose at Colorado State University. A leading voice in positive psychology, Dr. Steger is known for his research on how people find meaning in life and work, including the development of the widely used Meaning in Life Questionnaire.

We explore what gives life meaning, why belonging matters, and how community shapes our sense of self. Michael reflects on growing up between Buffalo and rural Minnesota and how those experiences fueled his curiosity about culture, faith, and identity.

We also discuss how rituals, relationships, and shared purpose help us find stability in a chaotic world, and how social media can complicate our search for connection. At its core, this conversation is a reminder that even the smallest moments of community can help us feel seen, grounded, and purposeful.