Talking to Strangers

A study on human connection

Hi everyone,

Between end-of-school-year activities and the wrap-up of hockey season, things have been extra busy, so I’m keeping this week’s blog short and sweet.

I recently discovered a fantastic visual essay called Hello Stranger that I want to share with you. In short, it follows a conversation between two strangers who were part of a broader study on human connection. The researchers paired people of different genders, races, and ages, and asked them to have a 25-minute video chat.

The results of the study gave me all the feels and reinforced just how quickly real connection can form, even between complete strangers. It offers insight into what’s possible when we step outside our comfort zones and engage openly with someone new.

If you’re interested in connection and human interaction, I think you’ll love it too. And it may even inspire you to make a new friend.

Enjoy! Here’s the link: https://pudding.cool/2025/06/hello-stranger/

Until next time,

Elissa

P.S. I’ve been thinking about offering small-group or 1:1 sessions to support people in building meaningful friendships and community. It’s still a work-in-progress, but if that sounds like something you’d find helpful, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

P.P.S. You can find more stories and small steps for building connection over on Instagram @howtomakegreatfriends