Additional Coverage:
- My father’s death showed me how hard it is for men to open up. I started a men’s walking group to help us connect. (businessinsider.com)
Loneliness in the sprawling city of Los Angeles inspired Jonathan Jacobs, 35, to create a unique solution: a men’s walking group. Jacobs, who moved from New York during the pandemic, found it challenging to build local friendships. Four years and several social circles later, he still craved deeper connection, especially with other men.
The loss of his father in 2020 further fueled this desire. Learning of his father’s undisclosed alcoholism on his deathbed, Jacobs realized the profound impact of isolation and the lack of intimate relationships. This experience ignited a passion to create spaces where men could openly connect.
Inspired by Mark Greene, founder of the New York City-based Men Walking, Men Talking, Jacobs launched the group’s Los Angeles chapter in 2025. A simple Reddit post in January garnered interest from 60 men, with seven brave souls attending the inaugural walk.
Initial awkwardness gave way to meaningful conversation as the men, ranging in age from their 20s to 60s, navigated shared experiences and the universal need for connection. The group, which meets twice a month on Sundays, has grown to over 100 members, with regular attendance as high as 17. The demand has even led to mid-week “pop-up walks.”
Jacobs designed the walks to be low-stakes and accessible, recognizing the challenges of navigating Los Angeles traffic and parking. The informal setting allows men to connect without pressure, fostering a sense of belonging even for those who can’t attend regularly. He noted the importance of side-by-side activities, which research suggests men prefer, facilitating conversation without the forced intimacy of face-to-face interaction.
The walks have become a source of support and camaraderie. Jacobs recalled sharing his anxieties after his girlfriend experienced a health scare, finding comfort and understanding from other men who had faced similar situations. He’s observed men continuing the conversation after the official walk, grabbing beers and forging new friendships.
For those hesitant to join, Jacobs emphasizes the shared desire for connection. He wants every man to know they’re not alone and that there’s a welcoming community waiting for them.