Reach Intent: The Soul and Science of Human Connection

Move beyond transactions to build and strengthen human connections.

Human connection is an essential foundation for long-term relationships and real joy in life. True human connection has been crowded out for decades by ever-increasing automation and processes, making intentional connection a rare and vital part of a happy, purposeful life. Journey through the science and soul of human connection to learn how to create meaningful connection in your life.

Real connection isn't perfect. Building relationships requires the courage to move beyond surface-level talk and engage deeply.

Real connection is a process. A blend of science and soul informs the CONNECT-THINK-APPLY-REACH process, a practical framework for creating human connection.

“An insightful guide to building connection. I recommend all teams read this.” – Matt Curtis, Operations Manager

We are all striving for more meaningful connections in our lives. Kyle offers powerful insights into why they matter and how essential they are to us as human beings. I’m excited to put these ideas into practice and help create interactions that are less transactional and more intentional!” – Jenny Hastings

“I appreciate the mix of stories from real-life experiences, history, and fiction. They bring together different perspectives that makes the ideas feel relatable and real. I especially appreciated the deep dive into Connection, explaining what it is, and just as importantly, what it’s not. I appreciate the science behind Connection and the effect it has on our brains. This is a must-read for anyone looking for a motivating call to connect deeply with the people around them.” – Christine Sosnowski, Right Alignment Consulting

“An inspiring and insightful read. Using suggestions from this book, I changed how I began group meetings, which made an enduring difference. Throughout the meeting, people were more present, and ideas flowed freely. We began with real-life story sharing, genuine listening, and an intentional invitation for creative thinking. I am amazed at what became possible with simple shifts, and I am grateful for the perspective, research, and attention Kyle has given the nuanced experience of connection.”– Martha Wright, Shamanic Medicine Woman

“Reach Intent challenges us to think differently. Kyle breaks down something that can feel complex into a simple, intentional approach—helping us move beyond transactional interactions and bring a more human touch to the way we build relationships. Whether at work, with our teams, or with our families, the book offers practical strategies for creating deeper, more meaningful connections in every area of our lives.” – Stephen Powell, Lemoine

“We work too long and too hard for the experience of working together not to matter. We bring together talented people and ask them to solve extraordinarily difficult problems together. Reach Intent captures something I have seen repeatedly: When team members genuinely know, trust, and respect one another, disagreement becomes productive and problems become much easier to solve. The Connect—Think— Apply—Reach model gives leaders a tangible way to make that kind of culture intentional rather than hoping it happens on its own.” – Eric Ubersax, Architect, Project Manager

“These days we move fast, stay busy, and interact with people all day long, but it doesn’t mean we’re connecting with them. Reach Intent peels back the layers of true connection and shows us where we are missing genuine connections. Real connection takes intention. We must slow down, be present, listen, and want to understand the people around us. Kyle does a great job explaining why human connection matters and giving us a way to create more of it in our work, our relationships, and our communities. Reach Intent reminds us that meaningful connection starts with our being intentional.” – Clint Welch, Intech Mechanical