Building Critical Connection at Work with Tracy Brower (S8:E10)

About this episode

Dr. Tracy Brower discusses the importance of building connections at work and how it impacts performance and wellbeing.

It takes about 60 hours to make a friend, and work is one of the few places where that time naturally accumulates. In this episode, Dr. Tracy Brower reveals why those hours matter more than ever, sharing research on how connection reshapes the brain, reduces loneliness, and drives performance, creativity, and wellbeing. She also unpacks how hybrid work, place, and leadership can either accelerate or erode the relationships people need to thrive. Dr. Tracy Brower is a sociologist and workplace expert focused on the intersection of connection, culture, and the future of work. She is the author of The Secrets to Happiness at Work and Critical Connections, and her insights regularly appear in major media outlets. Tracy serves as Vice President of Workplace Insights at Steelcase, where she helps organizations create thriving, human‑centered workplaces. The Work Better podcast is produced by Katie Pace, with assistance from Rebecca Charbauski, Stav Kontis, Chiara Licari, and Brandon Lacic. Erin Ellison provides creative art direction. Soundpost Studios edits and mixes the podcast. Jose Jimenez and Sean McManaman provide technical support. Areli Arellano and Jordan Marks publish…

People in this episode

Host: Katie Pace

Guest: Tracy Brower

Topics covered

• workplace connection
• hybrid work
• leadership
• performance
• creativity
• wellbeing

Keywords

• friendship
• loneliness
• sociology
• work culture
• human-centered workplaces
• future of work

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Steelcase, Soundpost Studios

Books & works: The Secrets to Happiness at Work, Critical Connections

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