What makes a good colleague? In this episode of our Origin Stories series, host Megan and her guest Kinya Baker explore the philosophy behind "colleagues for life"—those meaningful connections that start in professional spaces but evolve into lifelong friendships.

Recorded in Montreal, Megan and Kinya reflect on how they met during the pandemic at a virtual community of practice. What began with one thoughtful comment in a meeting led to a coffee shop conversation in Calgary that neither wanted to end—and a friendship that's spanned across the country and transformed their lives.

They dive deep into what builds genuine colleague relationships: leading with empathy, the African concept of Ubuntu ("I am because we are"), creating spaces where people feel valued, and the reciprocity of lifting others up. They also discuss the "send down the elevator" philosophy—making sure you help pull others up as you climb.

Through warm conversation and vulnerable storytelling, Megan and Kinya discuss the beauty of seeing colleagues as whole humans, the power of hospitality, and how the everyday moments we create together become the magic that sustains us through life.

Perfect for anyone looking to build more meaningful workplace relationships and friendships.