Ever feel alone in a crowd? Whether you're a successful entrepreneur or single parent, I get it.

It's not fun. But changing your situation is within your power.

In this episode, I take you back to the year 2000, when I traveled through the Middle East as a seminary student. I was surrounded by breathtaking history—walking the Street Called Straight in Damascus where Paul once stayed, exploring Petra's rose-red cliffs, and sitting in Beirut's famous St. George Hotel with the scent of cardamom coffee in the air.

By all appearances, I should have been energized. Instead, I felt isolated and alone.

The turning point came in the most ordinary place: a restroom. Another American noticed my Wheaton College t-shirt and struck up a conversation. That simple exchange completely changed the tone of my day and taught me two lessons I've carried ever since: take your focus off yourself and be present, and don't wait for connection—engage.

In this episode, I'll share how one genuine encounter lifted my loneliness, why meaningful conversations matter more than a million followers, and how you can create connection anywhere—even in the most unexpected places.

Find me online at www.vaughnkohler.com

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