The Messy Middle Matters

Ep 12: Icebreakers: Creating Space for Connection

Listen Later

In this episode of The Messy Middle Matters, Indra and Amanda dive into the surprisingly powerful world of icebreakers, those sometimes awkward, sometimes delightful moments that set the tone for team connection. Whether you're leading a virtual kickoff, hosting a new hire orientation, or just trying to get humans to look each other in the eyes, the right icebreaker can ease social anxiety, build rapport, and foster inclusive environments.

They explore:

  • Why icebreakers matter (even for well-established teams)
  • What makes an icebreaker effective, and what makes it flounder
  • Tips for adapting to different personalities, cultures, and formats
  • Their favorite (and least favorite) icebreakers
  • How to avoid common pitfalls and keep it purposeful

    • If you're leading teams or planning meetings, this one's for you. It’s all about creating small moments that invite human connection, without forcing it.

    Useful Links:

    • Where Should We Begin - A Game of Stories
      • Pro tip: remove the NSFW cards
      https://game.estherperel.com/products/where-should-we-begin-a-game-of-stories-2nd-edition

    • We’re Not Really Strangers
      • https://www.werenotreallystrangers.com/

    • Be Plucky - 1:1 Cards
      • Pro tip: The Mentor pack is Indra’s favorite for ice breakers
      About the cards: https://www.beplucky.com/category/11cards/
      Buy the cards: https://shop.beplucky.com/

    • So… a collection of questions for deeper discussions
      • https://www.socards.org/

    • Creative Sprint Card Deck
      • Can be leveraged for icebreakers; especially good for creative teams
      https://www.anotherlimitedrebellion.com/the-creative-sprint-card-deck

    • Gamestorming
      • Great resource for frameworks for business problem solving. Some can be simplified rather easily
      Site: https://gamestorming.com/
      Book: https://a.co/d/hobgwn2

    • The Messy Middle Matters Merch
      • shop.themessymiddlematters.com

    • The Messy Middle Matters Glossary
      • www.themessymiddlematters.com/glossary

    • Feedback for The Messy Middle Matters
      • www.themessymiddlematters.com/feedback
      ...more
      View all episodesView all episodes
      Download on the App Store
      The Messy Middle MattersBy People | Process | Things — Indra Klavins