We're not robots. We don't show up to work as just one version of ourselves—and in today's hybrid and remote landscape, engagement and wellbeing don't always align. In this solo episode of Reimagining Community, Garland Fuller explores why flexibility gets people in the door, but connection is what keeps them in the room.

From Gallup's paradox of remote work (higher engagement, lower wellbeing) to the rising demand for flexibility as currency for retention, Garland dives into what leaders need to understand about designing meaningful connection in hybrid teams.

Key Conversation Highlights

• Hybrid Work Paradox Why fully remote employees are often more engaged but report lower wellbeing—and what that gap means for managers and organizations .

• Engagement vs. Wellbeing Engagement = energy for work. Wellbeing = energy for life. Garland explains why high engagement scores don't always protect against turnover or burnout .

• Flexibility as Retention Currency 60% of remote employees say they'd quit if flexibility were revoked —why this is non-negotiable for many.

• Connection by Design Connection doesn't happen by accident. Leaders must intentionally design hybrid experiences—team touchpoints, offsites, and non-traditional gatherings (beyond happy hours).

• Checking In Without Micromanaging How to balance accountability with care—asking about stress, social connection, and energy without crossing personal boundaries.

• The Third Space Academy Lens Garland shares why the People–Place–Program framework is essential for hybrid leaders who want to move beyond "butts in seats" and build true belonging.

Resources & Mentions

• Reports & Data

  • Gallup: The Remote Work Paradox—Higher Engagement, Lower Wellbeing

  • Gallup: Global Indicator—Hybrid Work

  • Gallup: Global Indicator—Employee Wellbeing

  • Gallup: Despite Employer Prioritization, Employee Wellbeing Falters

• Frameworks

  • People, Place, Program (intentional design for connection in hybrid spaces).

Connect & Keep the Conversation Going

Are you working remote or hybrid? Drop a 🏠 if you're remote or a 🏢 if you're hybrid, and tell us your biggest blocker to connection.

👉 Share your reflections in the comments or tag Garland on LinkedIn. 👉 Explore the Community Impact Collective and join the newsletter: garlandfuller.com.

Stay Inspired

"Flexibility wins over engagement—and connection sustains wellbeing." — Garland Fuller

Building legacies, together.