Barnet Bain is an award-winning filmmaker, author, and teacher known for exploring themes of creativity, connection, and the human spirit. His film credits include Oscar winner What Dreams May Come, Outstanding TV Movie Emmy nominee Homeless to Harvard, and Eckart Tolle’s Milton’s Secret. His new book, How to Be a Friend (in an Unfriendly World), grew out of a Columbia University master’s course he created for psychologists and offers a heartfelt guide to practicing friendship in all its forms.

Barnet consults and trains business leaders and private clients who are committed to high performance. Through his creativity workshops, Barnet guides people of all ages and walks of life to expand their vision of what is possible, and develop their gifts and talents with passion.

Barnet is a faculty member of Columbia University, Spirituality Mind Body Institute, and Esalen Institute. He is the author of The Book of Doing and Being: Rediscovering Creativity in Life, Love and Work, (Atria, 2015) and The Third Story: Awakening the Love That Transforms,(Spindrift, 2013).

Barnet is an official partner with ‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Foundation’ which enjoys participation of millions of community, corporate, and educational leaders annually, including the White House, who are using Barnet’s creativity content in their 2016-2017 curriculum for communities, schools and corporations.

Lately, it’s become harder to stay connected — not just online, but in life.

We’re more “reachable” than ever, and somehow less reached.

In How to Be a Friend (in an Unfriendly World), award-winning filmmaker and teacher Barnet Bain offers a heartfelt guide to what friendship really means, and how it can change everything.

Originally developed from his Columbia University master’s course for psychologists, the book grew out of real conversations about how we connect, listen, and stay kind, even when it’s not easy.

It’s not about fixing people or performing kindness. It’s about remembering how to be with others — and with ourselves — even when the world feels impatient.

Drawing on years of storytelling and teaching, Barnet shares what he’s learned about connection in a way that’s honest, practical, and easy to relate to.

If you’ve ever felt lonely in a crowded room, or wondered how to show up better for the people who matter most, this book will meet you right where you are.

It’s hopeful, tender, and a little bit funny, the kind of read that makes you nod, smile, and maybe text someone you love.

What You’ll Find Inside:

• Simple ways to connect — how to stay open and kind even when life feels overwhelming or people disappoint you.
• Stories that feel familiar — from small moments of misunderstanding to the quiet courage it takes to reach back out.
• Tools for everyday friendship — how to listen without fixing, speak without wounding, and hold boundaries without closing your heart.
• Reflections that meet you where you are — not lofty advice, but gentle reminders that real connection starts right here, with you.

This is a how-to guide and a touchstone. A small-format companion with big impact. A book to keep on your nightstand – or give to someone you care about.

If you’ve ever felt like the world is a little too cold, too fast, or too lonely, How to be a Friend is your reminder that you are not alone – and never have to be.