Matt Pool is an owner of Restaurant, Pub, & Games (RPG) in Lawrence, KS.

Alongside three other owners, Matt opened up RPG six months before the COVID pandemic. It quickly became a favorite place for people to gather, eat a meal, and play a board game.

I reached out to Matt because I was fascinated with RPG's business model of creating a safe space for community that connected people from various backgrounds. After going there myself, I was struck by how seriously RPG backed up their mission. I talked with strangers, laughed a ton, and left feeling more fulfilled. It reminded me how important being socially connected was.

RPG will be permanently closing their doors on June 30th, 2023.

As RPG closes their business doors, the culture they've created grows stronger. More and more people are sharing stories of life change they experienced while gathering with their friends and soon-to-be-friends at RPG. 

Culture change takes a long time - but it is so worth it. As you listen to this conversation, be reminded of your ability to build a community that makes those around you better.

In this episode you can expect to hear about: 

• how RPG opened and was the biggest ribbon cutting
• the stories that almost made us cry on the podcast
• how many drinks I spilled as a server and my appreciation for service staff
• why a community is a product of culture - good or bad
• what made RPG introduce a $15/hr minimum wage
• the moment they decided to permanently close
• and how you can build a community of people (it's not too tricky). 

EPISODE LINKS:

• https://www.instagram.com/rpglawrence/
• https://www.facebook.com/RPGLawrence
• https://rpglawrence.com/

The Talk to People Podcast is a resource for personal development and building meaningful relationships. In a world grappling with the loneliness epidemic and friendship recession, we are here to guide you towards overcoming isolation and cultivating a thriving social circle. With different guests, we explore the art of building relationships and mastering communication skills, providing you with actionable tips to become a better communicator. Through insightful conversations and fun solo episodes, we explore how to make friends and overcome loneliness. 

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Produced by Capture Connection Studios: captureconnectionstudios.com