Why random connections build empathy – Matthias Biehl on the Power of Unplanned Moments

Episode Overview:In this episode of One Day in Transformation, Matthias Biehl, Senior Lead for Experience and Innovation Strategy at Kyndryl and founder of Pool Match, shares his journey from leading Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for 850 employees to launching a startup that fosters empathy through random human connections. Matthias discusses why diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are critical for corporate resilience, how empathy can be trained like a muscle, and why the most meaningful connections are often the ones we don’t plan. He also introduces Pool Match, a platform that connects people outside their usual networks to break down barriers and build understanding.Key Themes:DEI as a Strategic Priority:Why companies that prioritize inclusion navigate crises more effectively.How empathy and emotional intelligence transform leadership, especially in challenging times.The misconception that DEI is a "soft factor" and why it’s a competitive advantage.Pool Match: Breaking Echo Chambers Through Randomness:The origin of Pool Match: Scaling an internal belonging initiative to a public platform.Why randomness—not algorithms—creates more authentic connections.The vision: Sparking conversations that bridge divides in polarized societies.Actionable Insights for Leaders:How to hold leaders accountable when their commitment to allyship wavers.A simple, practical challenge to build empathy in daily life.Timestamps:00:30 – Matthias’ personal journey: From ERG member to DEI leader.05:52 – Why DEI is a competitive edge, not just a moral obligation.09:51 – The biggest misconceptions about empathy in leadership.13:04 – "Allyship has no memory": Navigating performative vs. authentic support.17:55 – Introducing Pool Match: Random connections for empathy and growth.25:34 – How Pool Match ensures meaningful conversations.32:57 – Matthias’ song recommendation: Reliquia by Rosalía.37:28 – One Week in Transformation Challenge: Spark conversations with strangers.40:42 – The one thing Matthias would change about corporate transformation.Links and Resources:Matthias Biehl:LinkedIn ProfileKyndrylPool Match:Website (Launching January 2026)Mentioned in the Episode:Reliquia – Matthias’ song recommendation.SEO-Optimized Keywords:Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)Empathy in leadershipEmployee Resource Groups (ERGs)Random networkingCorporate transformationEmotional intelligencePool MatchKyndrylRosalía LuxUnplanned connectionsAllyship in businessCall to Action: If this episode resonated with you, share it with a leader who needs to hear it. Try Matthias’ challenge! Spark a conversation with someone outside your usual circle and let us know how it goes.