Meet a Stranger

From a conversation in London earlier this year. Stranger #62, a millennial, works with Gen Z every day. She’s learned a lot about herself from them and thinks there’s a lot we can learn from this generation, if we take the time to listen. Be sure to check out the new gomeetastranger.com! Follow Matt on Instagram at instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today, the co-founder of Carom shares the story behind creating a platform designed to help people build meaningful, real-life connections through shared experiences and events. Born from a personal need for community and inspired by the disconnection felt during the pandemic, Carom facilitates organic meetups based on mutual interests—from opera nights to casual coffee meetups.Learn more about Carom at https://www.carom.app/Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

In this episode of Meet a Stranger, Matt Haze sits down with a man whose life took a heartbreaking turn when he lost his wife to ovarian cancer at just 36 years old. What began as an Airbnb stay in Ireland turned into a deeply moving conversation about love, loss, and resilience. Despite his grief, he channeled his pain into purpose by creating the Doolin Motorcycle Festival, a charity event that has raised hundreds of thousands of euros for cancer support. This powerful story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the impact of living for those we've lost.Learn more about the Doolin Motorcycle Fest on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DoolinMotorcycleFest/ Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

They fly into Puerto Rico every Christmas to hold a holiday party with strangers. Why? Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthazeFollow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

As I start the next chapter in my life, I'm craving something different - something REAL - a real community of friends. But how does one do that as we get older? Welcome to Meet a Stranger 2.0Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthazeFollow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today, a makeup artist shares what she does to get her clients to open up to her, and the answer is way more simple than you think.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Meet Stranger #56. He's traveling the world, learning about strangers and learning about himself. He shares how his conversations with different people has taught him so much about himself.Follow the pod on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

We're back with a new season! To kick things off, you'll meet stranger #55 who recently shared her interaction with a stranger.Follow the podcast on instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

A couple in suburban Chicago talk about their wedding planning and what they've learned about themselves and each other.Follow Meet a Stranger on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

I met stranger #53 in Mexico City one morning. We chatted about how he always wanted to live abroad, and now he's doing it! Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

She's running for public office to change the world in her own neighborhood. She share why and why it's important to learn about the names on the ballot you might not recognize. Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

She's been falling in love with her Puerto Rican roots all over again as she watches her family discover theirs.Follow Meet a Stranger on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today we have a catch up chat with stranger #50, who is no longer a stranger, but my girlfriend, Kat.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today's stranger moved to America from France a few years ago. We talk about his perspective of the country then vs. now. Plus, he has an important message for Americans.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

She built a business sharing her insights on life through her cartoons. Follow Meet a Stranger on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

For 40+ years, stranger #47 has worked for a national TV network and helped to show us the good and bad of the world. He shares his insights into life, how we can have better conversations and the one thing he does that we all should do to help humanity.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

If the busses were running as scheduled, I might have not had a great chat with a stranger about music. Take a listen!Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Meeting strangers in the back of a car at 4am in a foreign country might not be the most ideal way to connect with people. But it can also turn into a great adventure.My girlfriend and I did a hot air balloon ride at sunrise in Mexico a few months back. On our way, we met a great couple from NYC that we ended up sharing the adventure with. I talk to them about our experience and how travel can really make you look at life differently. Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

He might have the ultimate job: traveling the world in one night to give presents to boys and girls everywhere. But WHY does he do it?Today's strangers shares some of his magic with you - and it's something I think we could embrace a bit in our own world.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today's stranger has been battling cancer. He started to do one thing that has helped him to be able to see his journey and life differently. And it's something you and I can start doing, too.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Asking for help from someone we know isn't easy. It REALLY isn't easy when you ask a stranger!On my last trip to Mexico City, some students asked if they could interview me for a school project. I did and really enjoyed it! They were kind enough to agree to be interviewed by me for this podcast! Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

It can be hard to find community where you live. But what if you've moved 25 times in 24 years? I talk about that with today's stranger.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today's stranger has lived outside of the US for a few years now. He shares how he feels it's no longer home and what traveling has taught him about himself and life.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today's stranger is a very well connected and networked guy. He wasn't always this way, though. Today, he shares some great tips to help you build your own network! Follow the podcast on instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Love and marriage, love and marriage,Go together like a horse and carriage.But does it really?Today's stranger isn't married to her long term partner and she's okay with it. Take a listen why.Maybe it's time to have a conversation on the purpose of marriage in today's society.Follow Meet a Stranger on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

I met stranger #37 when he was busking in the square in Old San Juan. We talk about how he's a vessel for his music and how he's learned to stay present in life.Follow Meet a Stranger at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

A random conversation before a very early morning flight led to a great chat with today's stranger about marriage - she thinks you should be required to get a license to get married!Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

It's easy to take a look at today's dating environment and get down about it. I get it! But today's couple will bring you hope and remind you of what's important. Follow Meet a Stranger on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today's stranger is not only a man, but a British man. A double whammy of holding in emotions. Matt and this stranger have a deep chat about why he's held in his emotions and thoughts and why their fellow men do the same.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

When that inner voice told her to pick up everything and move to New York City, she did. Now her journey has become more than just about herself - it's about inspiring her family to also do amazing things in their lives as well.Follow Meet a Stranger on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

He was 18 years old. Ready to graduate high school and take on the world.Then a life changing experience put it all into question.He took that moment, learned from it and went after his dreams.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Everyday, stranger #31 sits at the coffee stand in Old San Juan with his mother and a variety of people from all walks of life join him to chat. Why does he do this? He shares his story on today's episode.Follow Meet a Stranger on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Stranger #30 was on holiday and enjoying a lovely afternoon at the coffee stand in Puerto Rico. She was doing some writing and reminding herself that it's okay to just be present and take it all in, especially when feels like we should always be doing something. We talk about that on today's episode. Follow the podcast at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Growing up in NYC, stranger #29 watched people express themselves and give their gifts to the world. Now he's traveling the world doing the same thing.I hope today's story will encourage you to break through your own self-imposed limitations and do the damn thing.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today's stranger works with people down and out on their luck. She has one request for all of us. If we did THIS it would make life and the world a better place.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Stranger #27 shares his story of how his wife's daughter was the wake up call he needed to become a better man. Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

You read the title right. He found a gift, learned it and is using to help people all over the world... including in some of the most dangerous parts of said world.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Stranger #25 learned to listen to herself and trust herself to take action on the clues she would hear. Because of that, amazing things happened in her life last year.Check out the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

I was in a bit of a sad mood, but still struck up a conversation with a stranger. Honestly, this bird watcher was exactly who I needed to talk to at that moment!Follow the podcast at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today is a great reminder that communication is more than just the words we use... it's our energy. It's how we connect.I'm sharing a conversation with a street vendor in Mexico City that reminded me something I knew but needed to hear.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Stranger #22 is just about to start a brand new, exciting life after graduating college! But her long term boyfriend threw her a curveball.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Today's stranger was staying at the same airbnb as me. She just recently lost her mom. As she was dealing with the huge loss in her life, she kept thinking "I want to move, I want to go to Mexico." Everyone around her told her not to do it. She did it anyway. How has it turned out? Take a listen.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

In Mexico City, I had a chat with a woman is a lawyer by day but who fosters dogs by night. The reason WHY she started to help our four legged friends is inspiring. And hopefully, this chat gives you permission to look inward and ask yourself some questions.Follow me on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthazeFollow the podcast at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

For the next few episodes, Matt is talking to some of the internet strangers he's known through social media over the years. People he's never spoken to, but seen their photos and names pop up for years.He starts with a military wife who moved to the other side of the world. They talk about how she's meeting new people while also learning about herself.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Do your own family members feel like strangers?As we dig into the holiday season, Matt has an idea for you that might help make this one of the best holidays you ever have.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Stranger #18 took some horrible news in his life and turned it into a life of service.Follow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastrangerFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthaze This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

Stranger #17 is someone you would have run across on a flight and just KNOW he loves his job. He shares some insight into the airline industry and how we can navigate that world when things go wrong. Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthazeFollow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

It seems adults are buying toys more than kids are. Why is that?Today, stranger #16 shares with me why she collects lego sets and what she tells people who might give her grief about that.Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthazeFollow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

After stranger #15 shared her and her ex-husband slept in separate rooms because it worked for them, it made me wonder how many of these traditions we do in relationships, like sleeping in the same bed, could be changed to fit someone's relationship. Maria Avgitidis is the CEO of Agape Match, an award winning matchmaking service based out of NYC, and the host of the dating and relationship podcast, Ask a Matchmaker.Listen to the Ask a Matchmaker podcast at...Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-a-matchmaker/id1521530338Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LKGDq99ijBISXYlDTEeTKFollow Matchmaker Maria on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matchmakermariaFollow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthazeFollow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com

We started off the week with the fun of love. Yesterday, the extent we will go to find someone. Today, we talk about what happens when it doesn't work out.Stranger #15 just got out of a divorce and shares what she's doing differently this time around in dating and love.Follow Matt on Instagram at http://instagram.com/matthazeFollow the podcast on Instagram at http://instagram.com/gomeetastranger This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coffeeshopconvos.com