Maya Leibman, the former Chief Information Officer at American Airlines, emphasizes the significance of relationships and human connections in personal and professional settings. She believes that technology should enhance human interaction and that face-to-face engagement creates shared experiences that lead to better understanding and connections.

Leibman highlights the importance of business leaders facilitating connection in the workplace. She gives examples of open offices that promoted stronger connections among colleagues, creating a neighborhood feel at work. Despite the potential drawbacks of open office concepts, she believes that proximity plays a crucial role in increasing communication and connection between individuals.

The speaker also discusses the negative impact of social media, noting how it has allowed anonymous trolls to spread hate and bullying. However, she shares a heartwarming story about flight attendants who went above and beyond to care for an elderly man in a foreign country, showcasing the power of human connections and empathy.

Maya Leibman further emphasizes the importance of building human connections to solve the world’s problems. She mentions her son’s experience playing Dungeons & Dragons, which teaches collaboration and utilizing individual strengths for the benefit of others.

In summary, Maya Leibman’s message revolves around the value of human connections in fostering understanding, innovation, and positive change.