Designing Human Connection

In this episode of The Extra Seat, we explore how design thinking can help address the growing issue of loneliness. Loneliness is more than just an emotion—it’s a complex social problem that impacts health, wellbeing, and community resilience. We’ll unpack how human-centered design tools can foster empathy, uncover hidden barriers to connection, and spark innovative ways to bring people together. Highlighting the inspiring story of Chris Hope and his 100 Coffees Movement, we’ll show how simple, intentional acts of connection can scale into powerful solutions. Join us as we discuss how design thinking can reframe loneliness, design for belonging, and create opportunities for deeper human connection.