What a Year of Hugging Strangers Can Teach Us About Work Relationships w/ Melinda Lee Schmitt

How do you build genuine professional relationships—especially in a remote or digital work environment?

In this episode of Making the Connection, I sit down with Melinda Lee Schmitt, author of Rebel Hugger, to explore how vulnerability, authenticity, and emotional connection can transform the way we show up at work.

After completing a year-long experiment hugging thousands of strangers, Melinda shares what that experience taught her about human connection—and how those same principles apply to professional relationships, leadership, and workplace culture.

Together, they discuss:

• How to build authentic relationships at work (even remotely)
  
  
  
• The role of vulnerability in professional settings
  
  
  
• How to set healthy boundaries without damaging relationships
  
  
  
• Moving from people-pleasing to self-acceptance
  
  
  
• How to handle difficult coworkers and misaligned working styles
  
  
  
• Why listening—both to what’s said and unsaid—is a key leadership skill
  
  
  

Whether you’re a founder, part of a marketing team, or navigating corporate life, this conversation offers practical insights on building stronger, more human connections in the workplace.

If you’re looking to improve communication at work, strengthen professional relationships, or create a more connected team culture, this episode is for you.

To learn more about Melinda’s work, check out: https://melindaleeschmitt.com/

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Tune in to Making the Connection every other week to learn about how to develop genuine professional relationships.

Stay in touch with host, Angela Chong, on LinkedIn & on Instagram 

@ makingtheconnectionpodcast