In a world where we’re more digitally connected than ever, why do so many leaders and their teams feel increasingly isolated?

The irony is striking: we have endless ways to communicate, yet many leaders and high-performing professionals are running on empty when it comes to meaningful human connection. It’s not just post-pandemic fallout—it’s a perfect storm of remote work, constant change, and digital overwhelm that’s amplifying a timeless human need.

If you’ve ever walked into a room full of people and felt more alone than before, or found yourself exhausted by another day of surface-level interactions, you’re not imagining it. The craving for real connection is showing up everywhere—from Zoom-fatigued CEOs to creative teams that have lost their collaborative spark.

Gayle Lantz shares insights from a recent hackathon experience that reminded her why connection isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for business success. As she explains, “Connection creates trust, creativity, resilience and opportunity.”

But there’s a crucial distinction between being around people and actually feeling connected. Many traditional approaches to team building miss the mark, focusing on activities rather than authentic relationship building.

Leaders who can foster genuine connection have a powerful competitive advantage. They’re not just creating better workplace cultures—they’re driving better business outcomes.

This episode covers: 

• The illusion of connection in our hyper-digital world 
• How to recognize when your team is craving deeper connection 
• The business case for prioritizing human relationships 
• Why being present is more powerful than perfect agendas 
• Simple strategies to bridge silos and create shared moments 
• The leadership imperative to model vulnerability 
• Why connection isn’t a distraction from the work—it IS the work

Behind every idea, every meeting, and every role is a person who wants to feel seen, heard, and valued. In today’s world, human connection might just be your edge, your anchor, and your accelerator.

LINKS:

Previous CEO on the Go Episodes

Clear Your Vision: What’s Really Clouding Your Leadership View? (#264)

Why Should People Work Here? Rethinking Talent with Steve Cadigan (#263)