You’ve got names in your phone that make you smile—but when’s the last time you actually reached out? In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak share four simple, science-backed strategies to reconnect with old friends, former mentors, and professional contacts—even if it’s been years.
From “because I thought of you” texts to expert taps and nostalgia sparks, this is your action plan for rebuilding relationships that matter. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to reach out, this episode is your sign to stop waiting and start reconnecting.
What to Listen For
[00:00:00] Why reconnection matters—and why it feels harder than it actually is
[00:03:00] Why people appreciate surprise check-ins more than you think
[00:04:30] Strategy #1: The Expert Tap—ask for advice to reignite respect
[00:06:30] Strategy #2: The Thoughtful Share—send content that reflects shared interests
[00:08:30] Strategy #3: The Nostalgia Spark—use memories to bring back connection
[00:09:30] Strategy #4: The Results Loop—follow up on past advice to show impact
[00:10:30] Why mentors love hearing the outcome of their guidance
[00:12:00] This week’s challenge: Reconnect with 3 people using any strategy
Episode Takeaways
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Most people love being contacted out of the blue, even if it’s been years
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Rebuilding old relationships is often faster and more impactful than making new ones
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Use the Expert Tap to ask for advice—it shows respect and reignites connection
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Send a Thoughtful Share (article, podcast, project) to rekindle shared interests
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Trigger warm emotions through Nostalgia Sparks—photos or throwback memories
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Close the Results Loop by showing how someone’s past advice helped you
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Reaching out adds real value to others’ lives and strengthens your network long-term
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This week: reconnect with one friend, one mentor, and one former coworker
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