#287 Authenticity Over Algorithms: Reclaiming Connection in the Digital Divide With Charles Vogl

I once believed that the pinnacle of success was a solitary journey, until I met Charles Vogl. His stories of connecting individuals and transforming communities revealed a deeper truth about the power of human bonds. As our special guest, Charles, an esteemed author and expert on leadership, shares his transition from documentary filmmaking to a beacon for community building, he unpacks the critical need for non-transactional relationships in leadership and the often-overlooked societal issue of loneliness. His insights offer a lens through which to view our own interactions, as we consider how to foster authentic connections in our personal and professional lives.

Amidst the hum of daily business, we might forget the importance of a simple invitation to connect. Charles provides practical advice on avoiding the pitfalls that prevent meaningful interactions and emphasizes the critical role invitations play in creating a sense of belonging. He introduces the campfire principle from his latest book—how intimate spaces for interaction are crucial for nurturing supportive relationships. Our conversation also covers the imperceptible yet profound influence of sharing personal stories, reinforcing the human element that can strengthen bonds in environments like healthcare and education.

In our final segments, we rediscover the healing power of ancient practices and the importance of consistent, technology-free interactions for our communal and personal health. Charles illuminates the beauty of simplicity in connecting with others and the hidden potential of generosity that flourishes with just a spark of an invitation. As we wrap up, we're reminded of the lasting impact of sharing inspiring stories and extend an invitation to listeners worldwide to contribute their own experiences. Join us for this compelling dialogue that celebrates the timeless art of community and the impact of fostering genuine connections in an increasingly isolated world.

About Charles:

Charles Vogl is an adviser, speaker, and author of three books, including the

international bestseller The Art of Community.

He works with Google in several capacities, including as a trusted thought leader for the Google

School for Leaders, which develops over 20,000 Google managers.

His work is used to advise and develop leadership and programs worldwide within organizations

including Airbnb, LinkedIn, Twitch, Amazon, ServiceNow, Meetup.com, Wayfair and the US

Army.

Charles holds an M.Div. from Yale, where he studied spiritual traditions, ethics, and business as a Jesse Ball duPont Foundation scholar.

As a young man he served in the U.S. Peace Corps in Sub-Saharan Africa where he worked on

justice for human rights abuse and providing rural health care for his host village. Later he

created a documentary film company in NYC. His PBS projects won numerous international

awards, including the Amnesty International Movies That Matter Award. The experiences taught

him the importance of and how to bring people together around shared values and purpose.

Website: charlesvogl.com

Podcast: https://www.charlesvogl.com/wisdom-podcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesvogl