Younger generations in particular are finding their way back to something decidedly low-tech, gathering around shared interests, spending time together without an agenda, and simply being in the presence of other people. Maybe the lesson isn’t that we need more ways to connect. Maybe we need to rethink what genuine connection actually looks like.

In this conversation on the Leading with Instinct podcast, Katie Navarra-Bradley, Professional Facilitator and Leadership Coach with Katie the Coach, and Ginny Telego, President of Collaboration Partners, look at the growing desire for real, in-person community, the difference between connection and connectivity, and what leaders can learn from the way horses naturally seek one another when safety, uncertainty and belonging come into play.

They discuss the importance of noticing the people who may be standing at the edge of the group, creating psychological safety, and making room for relationships that aren’t always attached to an agenda or task. Connection grows when people feel seen, valued and safe enough to be part of something. And so, the challenge for leaders is to build an environment where people choose to circle up.

Takeaways

— Connectivity isn’t connection. Being constantly reachable doesn’t necessarily mean people feel known, valued or part of a community.

— Belonging is a leadership issue. When people feel isolated or outside the group, engagement, productivity and their willingness to show up can suffer.

— Soft socializing has value. Time together without an agenda can create relationships that task-focused meetings and traditional networking often cannot.

— Noticing comes before fixing. Leaders can become so focused on getting the work done that they miss people who are quietly trying to find their place in the group.

— Connection can’t be forced. Putting people in the same office, meeting or activity doesn’t automatically create relationships or a sense of belonging.

— Relationships strengthen execution. Making room for genuine human connection isn’t separate from the work; it can help teams do important work better.

— Strong teams choose to circle up. Like horses forming a circle when they need unity and safety, healthy teams create environments where people naturally want to come togethe

The Leading With Instinct Podcast is brought to you by Collaboration Partners and KatieTheCoach.com.

Chapters

01:10 Introduction

02:41 Generational Loneliness

06:22 Digital Fatigue

15:15 Soft Socializing

21:03 Examples from the Herd - Circling Up

26:35 Creating an Environment of Noticing

31:35 Ways Leaders Can Create Community

Helpful Links:

Katie Navarra-Bradley, Katie The Coach: https://katiethecoach.com/

Ginny Telego, Collaboration Partners: https://www.thecollaborationpartners.com/