#36 - Pete Bombaci - Building a Human Connection Movement

Rediscovering Connection with Shelley Doyle

Welcome to "Rediscovering Connection," where we delve into the essence of human interaction with Pete Bombaci, the visionary founder of GenWell, Canada's human connection movement. In this 52-minute deep dive, we explore the transformative impact of genuine human connection on individual well-being and organizational culture.
Whether you're a leader seeking to nurture a more connected and healthier team, or an individual looking to enrich your personal relationships, this episode is made for you.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Pete Bombaci and GenWell's mission.
05:00 - The catalyst for starting GenWell: A story from a blackout in 2003.
10:00 - The Human Connection Conference: Insights and experiences.
15:00 - Post-Traumatic Growth: Learning from Cedar's opening talk.
20:00 - The new Canadian social connection guidelines - why no numbers?
25:00 - Balancing strong ties vs. weak ties in our daily lives.
30:00 - The role of technology in social connection - boon or bane?
35:00 - Community building through historical and modern lenses (Robert Putnam's "Bowling Alone" discussion).
40:00 - The workplace as a hub for connection - what can employers do?
45:00 - The concept of a 'Minister of Connection' in organizations.
Key Topics Discussed:
Crisis-Induced Connection: Pete shares how unexpected situations can foster community and how we can replicate this in everyday life.
Social Connection Guidelines: Why avoiding numerical targets in social guidelines might be more inclusive.
Digital vs. Face-to-Face Interaction: The debate on whether digital connections suffice or if they're merely supplementary.
Workplace Connection: Strategies for leaders to enhance team connectivity and the potential roles like a "Super Connector" or "Minister of Connection".
Guest Bio:
Pete Bombaci is a visionary leader in business and social change, passionate about fostering human connection. He founded The GenWell Project in 2016, driving Canada's Human Connection Movement to promote well-being through social interaction. Previously, he led Movember Canada to global fundraising success, raising $142 million for men's health. With 20 years in hospitality, Pete blends corporate experience with non-profit innovation to build a more connected society.

Website: https://genwell.ca/

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I hope our conversation inspires you to rediscover connection in your own life.
Subscribe now and let the magic unfold.
Love & sparkles,
✨Shelley
About Your Host

Hello you, I’m Shelley Doyle, founder of The Communiverse™, learning designer, facilitator, and host of the Rediscovering Connection podcast. My Master’s research focused on the relational investments of remote and hybrid leaders, published with a financial services firm and supported by Mitacs. With 20 years of international business and communications leadership, I now help remote and relocated leaders feel more socially wealthy - personally and professionally, online and offline - through programs, consulting, and training.
I have 5 spots available in my program Social Wealth Activation, starting w/c Dec 1st. Email: [email protected] to request info.
Find out more at TheCommuniverse.com or find me on LinkedIn.

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