143 | The Power of Connection in Modern Workplaces | Kevin Empey & Susie Leacy
Thu Nov 13 2025
Summary
In this episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, Scott McInnes discusses the challenge of disconnection in the workplace with guests Susie Leacy and Kevin Empey. They explore the impact of remote work on employee connection, the role of leadership in fostering a cohesive culture, and the importance of intentional strategies to build relationships among employees. The conversation also touches on the multi-generational workforce and the need for organizations to adapt their communication and engagement strategies to meet diverse needs. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that connection is a shared responsibility between leaders and employees, and that fostering a culture of connection is essential for organizational success.
Takeaways
Disconnection is a significant challenge in modern workplaces.
Connection is essential for productivity and resilience.
Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering connection.
Organizations must adapt to maintain engagement in remote work settings.
Intentional strategies are needed to create opportunities for connection.
The multi-generational workforce presents unique challenges and opportunities.
Onboarding processes should focus on building community and connection.
Employees have a role in co-creating workplace culture.
Flexibility in work arrangements comes with shared responsibility.
Connection should be prioritized over merely addressing disconnection.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Disconnection in the Workplace
04:47 Understanding the Challenge of Disconnection
09:01 The Importance of Connection in Modern Work
12:03 Bridging the Gap: Building Cohesion and Engagement
16:15 Navigating a Multi-Generational Workforce
21:55 Intergenerational Connections in Care Settings
24:35 Bridging Generational Gaps in the Workplace
29:42 Intentional Onboarding and Cultural Integration
33:06 Creating Community in a Hybrid Work Environment
39:13 Co-Creating Culture: The Role of Employees and Leaders
More
Summary In this episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, Scott McInnes discusses the challenge of disconnection in the workplace with guests Susie Leacy and Kevin Empey. They explore the impact of remote work on employee connection, the role of leadership in fostering a cohesive culture, and the importance of intentional strategies to build relationships among employees. The conversation also touches on the multi-generational workforce and the need for organizations to adapt their communication and engagement strategies to meet diverse needs. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that connection is a shared responsibility between leaders and employees, and that fostering a culture of connection is essential for organizational success. Takeaways Disconnection is a significant challenge in modern workplaces. Connection is essential for productivity and resilience. Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering connection. Organizations must adapt to maintain engagement in remote work settings. Intentional strategies are needed to create opportunities for connection. The multi-generational workforce presents unique challenges and opportunities. Onboarding processes should focus on building community and connection. Employees have a role in co-creating workplace culture. Flexibility in work arrangements comes with shared responsibility. Connection should be prioritized over merely addressing disconnection. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Disconnection in the Workplace 04:47 Understanding the Challenge of Disconnection 09:01 The Importance of Connection in Modern Work 12:03 Bridging the Gap: Building Cohesion and Engagement 16:15 Navigating a Multi-Generational Workforce 21:55 Intergenerational Connections in Care Settings 24:35 Bridging Generational Gaps in the Workplace 29:42 Intentional Onboarding and Cultural Integration 33:06 Creating Community in a Hybrid Work Environment 39:13 Co-Creating Culture: The Role of Employees and Leaders