Something to Read

The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker

I wrapped up February and kicked off March at two back-to-back conferences. As I navigated massive event spaces—surrounded by colleagues, industry leaders, and total strangers—I couldn’t stop thinking about Priya Parker’s The Art of Gathering. It’s remarkable how so many people can come together for the same event, yet moments of disconnection still happen. What if we designed gatherings to make engagement easier?

Parker challenges us to rethink gatherings—not by focusing on what we’re doing, but why. It’s not about logistics or the guest list (though they matter); it’s about intention.

For me, this book reinforced something I deeply believe: creating a dynamic where people feel like they belong starts with purpose. It validated that the effort we put into fostering connection isn’t just nice—it’s necessary.

If you bring people together in any capacity, this book is for you. The best gatherings aren’t just well-organized; they are felt.

Pick up a copy of The Art of Gathering at your favorite bookstore or online retailer.

Something to Hear

How to Talk to People: How to Make Small Talk (The Atlantic Podcast)

There I was at the networking break—holding a coffee, a conference bag stuffed with sponsor handouts—scanning the room for eye contact with anyone. Just standing there wouldn’t spark a conversation. If I wanted to connect, I had to act. That’s when I remembered a key takeaway from How to Make Small Talk, an episode of The Atlantic’s How to Talk to People podcast: discomfort isn’t a stop sign—it’s part of stepping in. I turned to someone nearby and asked, “Have you been to this conference before?” And just like that, the conversation began.

Small talk gets a bad rap, but it’s a bridge to connection. So why does it sometimes flow and other times feel painfully awkward? This episode breaks it down—calling out behaviors that make interactions uncomfortable (like the space invader, the loud speaker, or the newcomer misfire) and offering practical ways to ease the awkwardness.

The biggest lesson? Connection comes from action, not comfort. The more we practice, the easier it gets.

If small talk ever feels daunting, this episode is worth a listen. Find How to Make Small Talk on The Atlantic’s How to Talk to People podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Something to Do

Be the “Social Bouncer”

In any setting—whether at a conference, a social gathering, or even in a casual chat at work—there’s a simple but powerful move that can instantly make the space more welcoming: introducing people.

Every conversation needs a “social bouncer”—someone who ensures that when a new person joins, they aren’t left lingering on the edges. This doesn’t require knowing everyone well; it just takes a quick pause to make sure introductions happen. A simple, “Have you two met?” or “Do you know each other?” sets the tone for inclusion, immediately easing any awkwardness.

This is just as important if you’re the newcomer. Instead of standing by, take the initiative: introduce yourself and extend the invitation for others to do the same.

Great communicators don’t just navigate conversations—they create entry points for others. Challenge yourself this month: be the person who makes introductions a habit. Watch how quickly it shifts the energy and strengthens the connections around you.

Something to See

The San Diego neighborhood of South Park is where my heart resides—while my body resides in central New Jersey. South Park is a special place for me; one that sparks inspiration, reflection, and passion.

This month, I spent an unusually warm evening wandering the neighborhood and happened upon the Poet Tree on the corner of Fir Street and Granada Street. Tucked into this quiet corner was something simple yet profound—a tree adorned with poems, waiting to be discovered.

If you are ever in San Diego, I highly recommend a visit to the charming streets of South Park. And if you find yourself at the Poet Tree, take a moment to pause, read, and let the words find you.