10 Jun

Posted at 05:39h in Blog, Talk2MorePeople Book, Tony's Tips Videos, Travel

The Global Connection Quest (2025): How Meeting Strangers Changed My Life Again

Upcoming live virtual event with Tony HERE.

The end of 2024 was a time of massive transition in my life. Inspiration struck to set off on another journey to meet strangers. Initially I was only planning a return to Japan where I lived for two years more than two decades ago.  

But the trip evolved.

I was invited to do an Artist in Residency program at an eco-resort in the Philippines by fellow performing artist and friend, Karen. This added a new layer to the experience and an additional 5 weeks in Asia. 

I also added stops to see loved ones and to meet strangers in beautiful places. 

I called it the Global Connection Quest, and it unfolded over three months across five countries: Canada, the United States, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Japan. I was on the road from the beginning of January, 2025 to April 15, 2025. 

Although I did need time and space to myself, this wasn’t a vacation. It was an intentional effort to live what I teach to follow my curiosity, practice micro-bravery, and prove (again) that you can change your life by meeting people. 

Why I Did This Quest

The idea for the Quest came to me shortly after I accepted that my eight-year romantic relationship was coming to an end. To say that was tough is an understatement. But instead of retreating into sadness (which I have done before), I chose to move toward connection (which I have also done before). I left Canada earlier than planned and began a journey that would keep me in motion and in conversation instead of isolation.

I put myself out there to:
Meet new people. Share those moments. And stay curious.

How It Worked

Each day, I was open to new experiences and new people. Some days it was a quick exchange on a train platform or at a ramen shop. Other days it turned into an entire evening or weekend with people who started as strangers but ended as friends, whom I expect to see again. 

Reviewing the nearly 100 short videos I created from this project, I observed that a majority of these connections began the same way:

With curiosity!

It could be someone’s accent, a piece of clothing, or simply a feeling. Curiosity invited me into conversations, and conversations led to connection and adventures.

But curiosity alone wasn’t enough.

The Role of Micro-Bravery

Another theme that shaped this journey was something I call micro-bravery – small acts of courage that push us just beyond our comfort zone. It’s a concept I introduce in my TEDx talk, and it was everywhere on this Quest.

  • Saying hello to someone wearing headphones in a crowded subway in New York City.
  • Approaching a woman at a cafe in Osaka who was intimidatingly attractive. 
  • Starting conversations in languages I only half speak.
  • Offering to help someone, not knowing if it would be accepted.

None of these moments required huge effort. But they all demanded that I push gently past my comfort zone.

What I learned (again and again) is that you don’t need a huge personality to meet people. You just need a little courage, a little curiosity, and a willingness to use your voice.

What I Learned in 5 Countries

In Canada and the U.S., I practiced connection close to home while visiting friends and family. I noticed how we can have a tendency not to reach out to strangers in our home territory, and I see this as a missed opportunity. Strangers surprised me with generosity and insight, when I reached out.

In Taiwan, I rediscovered the joy of cultural exchange, and the vibrant night markets full of people and amazing food. On more than occasion, I shared hours of connection and adventure with people because of, and at the night markets. 

In the Philippines, I dove into some deep emotional waters, and had a very difficult time. But it was also where I grew the most. Interestingly while overcoming personal as well as physical challenges, I was there when I got the news that I’d be delivering a TEDx presentation. I delivered over 30 interactive workshops while there to friendly, kind locals. 

In Japan, I reconnected with people I hadn’t seen in 17 years, met hikers in the forest, and shared silent meals with strangers who warmed up over time. I also remembered how quiet connection can be just as powerful as conversation.

Through it all, I found that people everywhere — across cultures, ages, and backgrounds — want to connect. Sometimes they just need a nudge. Sometimes they need someone to go first.

Watch the Global Connection Quest in Action

If you’d like to see what this looked like, I documented much of the journey in a series of short-form videos. For this project, I experimented with editing the videos to be as short as possible, so most are between 1-2 minutes. 

Watch the Global Connection Quest videos by country

Canada

USA

Taiwan

Philippines 

Japan

Join Me – June 24 Virtual Event

On June 24, I’m hosting a virtual event to help you build more connection in your everyday life. This event is called, “Micro-Bravery in Action – A Connection Experience with Tony Esteves”. 

Join us to practice micro-bravery. And if you were at TEDx Victoria, please grab yourself a free ticket. 

Register here

I’m Ready to Work With You

If you’re part of a team, school, or organization that could use more connection, collaboration, or energy, I’m booking keynote talks, workshops, and 1:1 coaching sessions now. Whether it’s for your workplace, your leadership team, or your next event, I’d love to bring this message to your community.

Final Thought

You don’t have to fly around the world to feel more alive.
You don’t have to wait for a perfect moment to meet someone new.
All it takes is one small act of micro-bravery with the courage to look up.

Let’s keep this conversation going.

Tony

 

To learn more about building human connections, visit Talk2MorePeople.com. Check out Tony’s upcoming TEDx talk on the power of human connection and how meeting strangers pulled him out of depression at TEDxVictoria.ca

Tony Esteves is a a Solution Focused Coach, keynote speaker and facilitator. Tony is also the author of the book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and creating human connection.

25 May

Posted at 14:16h in Blog, Talk2MorePeople Book, Tony's Tips Videos, Travel

In the heart of New York City’s Central Park, I had the privilege of sitting down with someone whose work I’ve admired from afar for quite some time: Janille Hill, the creator of Street Connect NYC.

We met at the end of January 2025 as part of my Global Connection Quest — a personal and public adventure to meet new people around the world, one conversation at a time. I had always hoped our paths would cross, and it was truly heartwarming to finally meet Janille in person.

After following her work for years and being inspired by her thoughtful approach to building human connection, this conversation felt like a meaningful milestone in my journey.

Janille’s Mission: Making Strangers Feel Seen

Janille started Street Connect NYC with a simple yet profound intention — to talk to strangers, listen deeply to their stories, and share those stories with the world. Her project gives voice to people who might otherwise go unheard and reminds all of us that meaningful connection can begin with a single question or compliment on the street.

She doesn’t just interview people — she sees them. Her work is a beautiful reminder that strangers aren’t dangerous, or obstacles to avoid, but untapped sources of wisdom, inspiration, and humanity.

 

What I learned from our Conversation

One of the most moving parts of our time together was hearing Janille talk about vulnerability. She shared how opening up herself has helped create safe spaces for others to share their own truths — and how that mutual exchange can lead to deep, unexpected connection.

I’ve always believed in the power of approaching strangers with curiosity, and speaking with Janille only strengthened that belief. Her experiences on the streets of New York have taught her that:

  • Active listening is a superpower. When someone feels heard, walls fall away.
  • Everyone has a story. Every single person you pass by carries a rich inner world.
  • One conversation can change everything. For the listener. For the speaker. For the world.

Inspired and Grateful

I walked away from our meeting feeling inspired — not just by what Janille is doing, but by who she is. Her warmth, curiosity, and gentle strength as a facilitator, coach, parent, and kind, caring human are what make Street Connect NYC so impactful. It’s a project rooted in compassion, and I’m honoured that our paths have finally crossed in person. 

If you haven’t seen our full conversation yet, I hope you’ll take a moment to watch it here. Janille is doing incredible work in the field of human connection, and I believe more people need to know about it.

And if it inspires you to strike up a conversation with someone new this week? Even better. After all, meeting new people can change your life.

To learn more about building human connections, visit Talk2MorePeople.com. Check out Tony’s upcoming TEDx talk on the power of human connection at TEDxVictoria.ca

Tony Esteves is a a Solution Focused Coach, keynote speaker and facilitator. Tony is also the author of the book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and creating human connection.

12 Feb

Posted at 16:25h in Blog, Interviews

During my travels for the Global Connection Quest, I had the good fortune to meet up with Pete Bombaci, the founder of GenWell – Canada’s human connection movement – while in Toronto this January. We sat down in a noisy coffee shop to discuss GenWell’s incredible work in promoting social health and how human connection is the key to overall wellness.

The Power of Social Health

In our conversation, Pete explained what GenWell is all about and how they run seven annual campaigns, each aimed at fostering human connection in different ways to specific demographics. Unsurprisingly, one campaign I particularly resonate with is Talk to a Stranger Week, which encourages people to break down barriers and engage with those around them.

We also talked about the concept of Social Health—the idea that our wellbeing is deeply connected to the quality of our relationships and interactions with others. Pete highlighted how maintaining strong social connections can lead to increased empathy, compassion, resiliency, and happiness, while also reducing feelings of anxiety.

Navigating Loneliness and What We Can Do

As the conversation continued, Pete shared insights from Canadian research on loneliness, a growing issue in many communities. We discussed how crucial it is to actively nurture our social health, and Pete provided practical tips on what we can do to address loneliness in our own lives and in the lives of others.

Towards the end of the interview, we touched on Canada’s annual Human Connection Conference and Pete gave us a tease of something innovative that Gen Well is planning, which could have a significant positive ripple effect. We also explored Pete’s vision for the future of Canada’s human connection movement and the continued importance of creating spaces for people to engage, connect, and thrive together.

It’s just Great to Connect in Person

I hope you find the conversation as inspiring as I did! The work GenWell is doing to create wellness through the power of human connection is truly impactful, and I’m excited to share it with you all. It’s always such a pleasure to spend time with this man in person. I highly recommend Pete Bombaci as a keynote speaker for your organization if your aim is to educate your staff on the importance of creating a culture of human connection.

To experience the Global Connection Quest – where I’m meeting strangers in at least 4 countries to prove that you can change your life by meeting people, be sure to check out my dedicated campaign page HERE.

Happy connecting.

Tony Esteves is a passionate advocate for human connection, known for his “Talk2MorePeople Project”, where he met a new person daily for a year. His book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.”, shares insights on building meaningful connections. As a coach and speaker, Tony inspires others to make connection a natural part of life.

12 Feb

Posted at 15:02h in Blog, Human Connection Adventure

The Global Connection Quest: Changing Lives One Conversation at a Time

 

Imagine setting out on a journey with one simple mission: to meet strangers, spark meaningful conversations, and explore how human connection can transform our lives. That’s exactly what I’m doing with the Global Connection Quest, a worldwide adventure designed to prove that you can change your life by meeting people.

From vibrant city streets to remote villages, I’m applying the LOOKUP Process (from my book Talk2MorePeople) to meet people everywhere I go, capturing authentic, unscripted interactions that highlight the power of human connection. Through this journey, I’ll be sharing tools, stories, and lessons from strangers across different cultures—all documented on video.

How Meeting Strangers is Changing My Life Right Now! (Watch It Happen on YouTube)

Want to see the journey unfold? Watch the Global Connection Quest YouTube playlist HERE and follow along as I meet incredible people across multiple countries. Almost all of these videos are less than 90 seconds long, so you can get a connection tip and a story quickly. Meet some of the amazing people whom I’ve met HERE.

Get Your Free Guide

Ready to start meeting new people today? Download your free guide, “How to Easily Meet New People Today” HERE and discover simple, practical tips to start more conversations and build real connections—whether you’re traveling or at home.

 

It’s Time to Change Your Life by Meeting People

My personal experience from a journey of intentionally meeting a new person every day for a full year absolutely changed my life in 2016 / 2017. It could also change yours.

Consider how you might help a person out with your broad life, or business experience and make someone’s day? This is how friendships and meaningful relationships begin and those very relationships can literally extend your life. So the next time you get a hunch that you might have an opportunity to create more social connection, I invite you to follow that hunch and see what happens.

Happy connecting.

Tony Esteves is a passionate advocate for human connection, known for his “Talk2MorePeople Project”, where he met a new person daily for a year. His book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.”, shares insights on building meaningful connections. As a coach and speaker, Tony inspires others to make connection a natural part of life.

05 Dec

Posted at 19:30h in Blog

On November 18, 2024, I had the privilege of contributing to the second annual “Talk to a Stranger Week” campaign in Victoria, British Columbia. Organized by GenWell.ca—Canada’s Human Connection movement—and supported by Good Earth Coffeehouse, this campaign was an inspiring opportunity to encourage people to connect with others in their communities.  

The campaign’s mission was simple but powerful: to remind people that talking to strangers isn’t just a pleasant interaction—it’s an essential way to build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.  

Read the official press release HERE].  

Here’s a YouTube playlist of short videos from my experience during the week.

The Campaign in Action: Conversations and Coffee  

In Victoria, I joined an incredible group of volunteers to help bring this campaign to life. Together, we handed out postcards and free coffee vouchers, generously provided by Good Earth Coffeehouse, to encourage people to pause and connect.  

The postcards served as both an invitation and a conversation starter, highlighting the benefits of talking to strangers and encouraging recipients to reflect on their own experiences. The response was overwhelmingly positive—many people seemed delighted by the opportunity to engage in a meaningful moment during their day.  

Sharing Perspectives: Interviewing Strangers  

I had the good fortune to interview many strangers as a part of the campaign. The energy and impact of “Talk to a Stranger Week” were beautifully captured in GenWell’s recap video. It features stories from 5 locations across Canada, including the moments we helped create in Victoria. Watching it is a wonderful reminder of how small actions can have a ripple effect on individuals and communities. Check it out here:

I asked people what they thought about talking to strangers, and their responses were thoughtful and insightful. Some shared stories of meaningful encounters that started with a simple “hello,” while others expressed how rare but valuable these moments are in their daily lives.  

These conversations reinforced how much potential there is in everyday interactions. They also reminded me that, often, all it takes to make someone’s day—or even change their outlook—is a willingness to reach out and connect.  

Why Talking to Strangers Matters  

Throughout the campaign, we focused on sharing the many benefits of connecting with people outside your usual circle. Some of the many benefits include:  

– Improved Mental and Physical Health: Positive interactions with others are shown to reduce stress, boost happiness, and contribute to overall well-being.  

– Strengthened Communities: Talking to strangers fosters inclusivity, safety, and resilience within neighbourhoods and cities.  

– Enhanced Empathy: Conversations with people from different walks of life expand your perspective and deepen your understanding of others.  

– Fostering Belonging: These connections remind us that we’re all part of a larger community, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.  

A Week of Connection and Reflection 

 Looking back, this campaign was an incredible experience. Seeing the power of a simple conversation unfold time and again reminded me why fostering connection is so important. From handing out postcards to sharing thoughtful discussions, every moment felt like a step toward a more connected world.  

A heartfelt thank-you to GenWell for organizing this campaign and to Good Earth Coffeehouse for supporting the effort with free coffee. And, of course, a big thank-you to everyone who stopped to chat, share their thoughts, or simply take a moment to reflect on the power of human connection.  

Keep the Spirit of Connection Alive  

“Talk to a Stranger Week” may have come to an end, but the lessons it offered are ongoing. Whether you’re in a coffee shop, on public transit, or out for a walk, take a moment to say hello to someone new. You never know how much of an impact that small act can have.  

For more stories and inspiration about meeting new people and building meaningful connections, visit Talk2MorePeople.com or sign up for my “Talk2MorePeople Tips Newsletter” for information about human connection and details about virtual and in-person events. Let’s continue to make the world a little more connected—one conversation at a time. 

About the Author

Tony Esteves is a connection enthusiast, coach, and author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People. Tony inspires others to create meaningful connections through engaging workshops, keynote talks, and everyday interactions on Instagram and his YouTube channel. When not facilitating conversations, you’ll find him exploring the mountains or connecting with strangers around the world.

29 Nov

Posted at 18:28h in Blog, Human Connection Adventure

New Social Connection Guidelines Aim to Transform Well-being

Social connection is more than just a feel-good concept—it’s a cornerstone of mental, physical, and societal health. With the release of the Social Connection Guidelines, individuals, organizations, and policymakers now have an evidence-based framework to foster human connection and combat loneliness. These guidelines were released at the third annual Human Connection Conference in Vancouver on November 5, 2024 by Dr. Kiffer Card. This was an exciting announcement for me as you can likely tell from this short video.

 

Why Social Health Matters

Loneliness and social isolation aren’t just emotional challenges; they have severe health implications. Research links poor social health to increased risks of heart disease, depression, and even premature death. These guidelines emphasize the importance of prioritizing social connection as a public health imperative, akin to how we approach nutrition or exercise.

Practical Steps to Build Human Connection

The guidelines provide actionable advice for strengthening social health, such as:  

– Maintaining three to five close friendships to reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety.  

– Spending one to three hours daily on meaningful social interactions, including conversations with family, friends, or colleagues.  

– Expanding your network to include “weak ties” (e.g., neighbours, coworkers) to build a sense of community and diverse support systems.  

Building a Connected Future

The guidelines also address systemic changes, advocating for human-centric design in neighbourhoods, workplaces, and schools to encourage deeper relationships. By embedding social connection into daily life and policy, we can create happier, healthier communities. These are the first social connection guidelines in the world, so take a moment and check them out!

Visit SocialConnectionGuidelines.org to see for yourself. I believe that together, we can redefine health by placing human connection at the forefront of well-being, one face-to-face conversation at a time.

My personal experience from a journey of intentionally meeting a new person every day for a full year absolutely changed my life. It could also change yours.

It’s Time to Change Your Life by Meeting People

Consider how you might help a person out with your broad life, or business experience and make someone’s day? This is how friendships and meaningful relationships begin and those very relationships can literally extend your life. So the next time you get a hunch that you might have an opportunity to create more social connection, I invite you to follow that hunch and see what happens.

Happy connecting.

Tony Esteves is a passionate advocate for human connection, known for his “Talk2MorePeople Project”, where he met a new person daily for a year. His book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.”, shares insights on building meaningful connections. As a coach and speaker, Tony inspires others to make connection a natural part of life.

13 Aug

Posted at 20:35h in Blog, Talk2MorePeople Book, Tony's Tips Videos, Travel

Embracing the Traveller’s Mindset: Building Rapport Quickly in Networking

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, the significance of face-to-face interactions often gets overshadowed by the convenience of online communication. Yet, the magic of meeting new people in person cannot be replicated through screens. As a professional who deeply values personal connections, I recently had an experience that reaffirmed my belief in the power of face-to-face interactions.

An Evening with Strangers

Earlier this month, I found myself at a lakeside picnic area just outside my mountain town of Canmore, Alberta. Passing by two travellers, I decided to embrace what I call “The Traveller’s Mindset.” This technique involves approaching life with the curiosity, a sense of adventure and openness of a traveller, eager to explore and connect with new people.

So that evening, I met two strangers. Initially, we were just three individuals sharing a public space, but soon we found ourselves engrossed in conversation. We talked about our lives, shared stories, and even enjoyed a glass of wine together. By the end of the night, what began as a chance meeting had turned into a delightful and memorable experience. Susanne and Matias were so lovely to spend time with.

The Traveller’s Mindset

So, what exactly is The Traveller’s Mindset, and why is it so effective in fostering new connections? Here are some key elements and benefits:

Curiosity: Travellers are naturally curious. They seek to understand the world around them and the people who inhabit it. This curiosity drives them to ask questions and learn from others.

Openness: When you’re in a new place, you’re more open to different experiences and perspectives. This openness allows for genuine interactions without the filters of preconceived notions.

Independence and Freedom: Travellers often feel a strong sense of independence and freedom, which enables them to act more authentically and without inhibition.

Self-Discovery: Travelling provides ample opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth. Travellers learn a lot about themselves, which boosts their self-confidence and adaptability.

Embracing Diversity: Travellers are more likely to enjoy interacting with people who are different from themselves in terms of race, religion, sexual identity, etc. This openness to diversity enriches their social experiences.

Presence and Spontaneity: Being in a new environment heightens travellers’ awareness and presence. They become more curious, spontaneous, adventurous, and adaptable, making each interaction more meaningful.

Attracting Like-minded People: The authenticity and confidence that come with the Traveller’s Mindset tend to attract like-minded individuals, facilitating deeper and more meaningful connections.

Life-changing Adventures: Travellers are more open to saying yes to new situations, leading to more frequent and impactful life-changing adventures.

Problem Solving: Exposure to various challenges while travelling hones their problem-solving skills, making them expert at navigating new and unfamiliar situations.

Below are tips on how to build rapport quickly by using this mindset.

Building Rapport Quickly: Leveraging The Traveller’s Mindset

Building rapport quickly is crucial in networking. Here are some practical tips to help you connect with new people swiftly and effectively:

Be Genuinely Interested: Show genuine curiosity about the person you’re meeting. Ask open-ended questions and listen attentively to their responses. People appreciate when others show a real interest in their lives and experiences.

Find Common Ground: Look for shared interests or experiences. This could be anything from a common hobby to a similar professional background. Finding common ground helps in establishing a connection more quickly.

Use Positive Body Language: Your body language plays a crucial role in building rapport. Smile, maintain eye contact, and use open gestures. Positive body language makes you appear more approachable and friendly.

Be Authentic: Authenticity is key to building trust. Be yourself and share your genuine thoughts and feelings. People are more likely to connect with you when they feel you are being honest and sincere.

Quality Over Quantity: Forget about working the room to connect with everyone there. Once you find yourself in a meaningful conversation with someone, allow that to develop. Making one good connection is more valuable than several meaningless ones. 

Share Personal Stories: Share a bit about yourself, especially stories that showcase your experiences and values. Personal stories can create an emotional connection and make the conversation more engaging.

Show Empathy: Demonstrate empathy by acknowledging the other person’s feelings and perspectives. Empathy fosters a deeper connection and shows that you care about their experiences.

Follow Up: After the initial meeting, follow up with a message or email. Mention something specific from your conversation to show that you were genuinely engaged. This helps in nurturing the new connection.

In Conclusion

My evening with two strangers at the lakeside picnic area near Canmore was a testament to the power of building new connections quickly. By adopting The Traveller’s Mindset, I was able to turn a potentially ordinary night into a memorable experience filled with meaningful interactions. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, embrace curiosity, adventure and openness, and discover the incredible benefits of meeting new people face-to-face.

To learn more about building human connections, visit Talk2MorePeople.com.

Tony Esteves is a a Solution Focused Coach and a circus performer. Tony is also the author of the book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and creating human connection.

16 May

Posted at 19:57h in Blog

Connection and Coffee

In the midst of our bustling lives, we often overlook the simple joys of human connection. Yet, in the most unexpected of places, we can stumble upon moments of profound magic that remind us of the transformative power of strangers.

During a recent camping excursion in Radium, BC, I found myself in such a moment. As I sat by the van that brisk morning, immersed in the tranquility of nature, I realized,

I had forgotten the most essential ingredient for my morning ritual: coffee!

In a stroke of luck, I spotted a fellow camper parked nearby and decided to approach. With a mix of hope and curiosity, I asked if they had any coffee to spare. To my surprise and gratitude, Johnny offered me a bag of ground coffee beans. I’ve attempted to crush up full coffee beans with a hammer while camping in the past, and I don’t recommend it.

As I brewed that first cup of coffee, and got into reading my favourite book of poetry by Richard Wagamese, “Embers”, I couldn’t help but marvel at the serendipity of it all. Here I was, miles away from home, experiencing a moment of connection and generosity with a stranger. I’ve met thousands of strangers, but this “coffee connection” seemed extra special to me.

Reflecting and Healing

In the days that followed, I reflected on the deeper significance of our chance encounter. It wasn’t just about the coffee or the conversation, but the healing power of opening ourselves up to connection, even in the briefest of encounters. The several hours I spent reading, journaling, and feeling connected to the land – while enjoying this unexpected coffee – was deeply healing for me during a time of big changes in my personal life. 

Meeting strangers reminds us of our shared humanity and the beauty of interconnectedness. In a world often divided, these moments of connection offer glimpses of hope and kindness that transcend barriers.

So, the next time you find yourself face to face with a stranger, whether in a bustling city or a remote campsite, embrace the opportunity for connection. The opportunity is almost always there. You never know what kind of magic awaits when you open your heart to the beauty of meeting strangers.

It’s Time to Change Your Life by Meeting People

Of course, you may not have friendly strangers offering you coffee in the forest, but my wish is for you to witness just how much good can come from at least being open to connecting with new people. I believe that it is essential for each of us to be open to these opportunities. They create moments of human connection and ripple effects of positivity. If you’d like some help with this, pick up the Talk2MorePeople book for a proven method on how to bring new people, opportunities and experiences into your life.

Happy connecting.

Tony Esteves is a a Solution Focused Coach an Interpretive Tour Guide and a performing artist living in Canmore, Alberta. Tony is also the author of the book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and creating human connection.

20 Dec

Posted at 21:36h in Blog

Reflecting on the Inaugural “Talk to a Stranger Week”

The recent launch of the first “Talk to a Stranger Week” by the Gen Well Project, Canada’s human connection movement, aimed to educate people about the research-based benefits of talking to strangers. 

As a participant and volunteer in Calgary during this momentous week, it was a fascinating experience and a fun challenge. Sporting shirts bearing the prompt “Do you talk to strangers?” we distributed informative postcards, and engaged with people during the busy lunch hour in Calgary’s “Plus 15” network.

Meeting People Can Be a Challenge

Of course, we experienced resistance, as people may have expected that we were selling something while handing out the postcards. But our efforts were rewarding as we were able to create more awareness about the benefits of talking to strangers and did indeed get into conversations with folks. 

The activations in Toronto and Calgary led to significant media coverage, which amplified this awareness campaign. Taylor Braat from CBC Calgary did a short story on Talk To A Stranger Week for the 6pm news and I was invited a guest on the “Calgary Eyeopener” morning radio show with Loren McGinnis. Click HERE for that interview. 

The Gen Well Project founder, Pete Bombaci was also busy with multiple interviews in Toronto that broadcast across Canada. 

My involvement with this week was a reminder of how rewarding it can be to volunteer. Doing so allowed me to re-connect with friends and also to meet new people.

It was a true pleasure to have been a part of this important week and I look forward to supporting again in the future. 

Resources to Explore

Have a look at the Gen Well Project’s press release for Talk To A Stranger Week.

Check out the Gen Well Project Website below for events research and resources on how to meet new people.

https://genwellproject.org/

Below is the Talk To A Stranger Week Website:

https://talktoastrangerweek.org/

——-

Tony Esteves is an internationally renowned expert in fostering authentic human connections.

As the acclaimed author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” Tony presents a proven methodology for inviting fresh experiences, new connections, and untapped possibilities into your life and professional sphere. He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and being connected to nature.

Immerse yourself in meaningful work and thrive in our interconnected world at Talk2MorePeople.com. Discover how to forge deeper connections by registering for Tony’s free Human Connection Starter Kit and embark on a journey of personal and professional fulfillment. 

26 Oct

Posted at 18:29h in Blog, Talk 2 More People Movement, Talk2MorePeople Book

Join This Human Connection Movement

Harnessing the profound impact of human connection can revolutionize not only our personal lives but also our society as a whole. Recently, I had the privilege of attending the second annual Canadian Human Connection Conference in Toronto, Ontario. This was an event that left me inspired and eager to share why you should consider joining this transformative experience in the fall of 2024.

Canadian Human Connection Conference 2023. Photo courtesy of the Gen Well project.

This conference delved deep into the critical role of human connection in our lives. Numerous speakers referenced the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community, published earlier this year.

The awareness and recognition of the power of social bonds are spreading globally.

Beyond personal connections, and the extensive research presented, the conference highlighted the incredible work of Pete Bombaci who is the founder of the Gen Well Project. This “Human Connection” movement, dedicated to fostering human connections, and educating Canadians on the importance of social health, has the potential to reshape our society profoundly.

As we discussed the significance of social connection, it became evident that there is momentum building. The Canadian federal government is now allocating resources to develop the “Canadian Social Connection Guidelines,” recognizing the vital importance of human connection for our overall well-being.

Attending this conference made me feel like an integral part of a movement that is poised to change the very fabric of our society. This initiative empowers us to become catalysts for transformation, driving change on a broader scale.

I’ve found a new community.

The conference also opened the door to a thriving professional community of passionate researchers and social practitioners. If you’ve got an eye for research, explore the Canadian Alliance for Social Connection & Health who are in partnership with the Gen Well Project. Beyond expanding our networks, we have the chance to influence and guide society toward a more interconnected, compassionate, and understanding future. I believe that we could use this now more than ever. 

Join us next year.

Looking ahead to next year, anticipation is building for a conference that promises to be even larger and more transformative. I’ll be sure to keep you informed on the opportunity to immerse yourself in this human connection movement.

In conclusion, don’t underestimate the potential of human connection to re-shape our society. Canada is poised to lead the way by implementing Social Connection Guidelines. These will be similar to the guidelines we have for fitness and nutrition. Embrace the power of human connection and become an integral part of a movement that’s redefining the way we connect and thrive together.

This is not just about personal growth; it’s about creating a brighter future for all.

 

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a “Human Connection Starter Kit” with free sections from the book and other great resources to build human connection. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today at Talk2MorePeople.com.