The Remote Communication Challenge 🎄 + Podcast 120 is out!

It's that wonderful, twinkly time of year again! Our thoughts turn to cozy gatherings, cherished moments, and the people who truly matter. But let's be honest, in our hyper-connected world, it's easy to believe that "out of sight, out of mind" is a relic of the past. We're all just a video call, a text, or a social media update away, right?

A few years ago I had stumbled upon a concept that gave me a real lightbulb moment about this – something called the Allen Curve. It's a brilliant, if slightly sobering, reminder that while technology can keep us in touch, it doesn't quite replicate the depth of connection that comes from physical proximity.

Think of it this way: the curve shows how quickly our communication and sense of connection decline as physical distance increases. It starts incredibly high when we're physically very close, then plunges sharply before flattening out. It's a stark visual of how being truly together fosters a different, richer kind of bond.

On Christmas, a time that I really enjoy, this curve feels more relevant than ever to me. It's a powerful reminder that there's simply no substitute for being physically present. Those subtle glances, the shared laughter over a silly joke, the warmth of a hug, the easy flow of conversation around a table – these are the things that build and reinforce connection in ways a screen just can't.

So, I invite you: at work and at home, lean into the magic of proximity. Let's make every shared meal, every board game, a defiant stand against the Allen Curve.

Wishing you and your family a Christmas filled with genuine connection, warmth, and the joy of being truly together.

Podcast Episode 120 is out!

If you’re making a big career decision—new role, new project, new path—would you rather have:

A perfectly drawn map someone else used, or

A reliable compass and the skill to navigate any terrain?

For me, it’s the compass. A map with a drawn out path tells you where someone else went. A compass makes you independent when the 'terrain' (i.e. our environment) changes - which it always does. 🤷 Maps show where I went. A compass helps you go anywhere.

If we want people who can adapt, we benefit from both: mentoring + coaching.

In my latest podcast episode of 2025, I discuss a simple flow to enhance mentoring with coaching:

(1) Figure out what your mentee actually wants and needs (coach-like questions)

(2) Share your experience (mentor)

(3) Ask them to translate what you shared to suit their unique situation (coaching)

Enjoy the episode!! 🎄

www.intellicoach.com/ep120