Why do the best conversations happen when you’re side by side instead of face to face?

I recently shared a “pebble” with a close friend — a short video clip from The Diary of a CEO hosted by Steven Bartlett (continuing my Granola-AI-fueled video podcast obsession). In the clip, the speaker explained how sitting side by side creates a relaxed environment for deeper conversations.

Instantly, I thought about all those high school and college drives with friends, looping endlessly through the neighborhood. Comfortable and low pressure, with Bollywood music in the background, we’d talk about everything and nothing, even sensitive, personal stuff. Like that time 16-year-old me awkwardly learned that ‘stomach cramps’ is code for a period (I don’t have any sisters, so it was news to me). It’s the kind of thing you wouldn’t normally bring up, but somehow, it felt natural during those drives.

Now, living car-free in NYC, I miss those moments. What’s the alternative, awkward subway rides?

Instead, I’ve found a new version of it: sitting side by side at a restaurant's bar with my cofounder, Chef Nelson, over drinks and dinner. It felt effortless, like those drives, and sparked an honest conversation about HappyBoards’ past and future (big updates are on the way!). It’s funny how much the setting shapes the conversation. Sitting across from each other at a table would have made everything feel more formal. There’s something about being side by side that takes the pressure off and makes opening up feel natural.

Maybe we all need more side by side moments where conversations flow naturally. Walking side by side might work too if it weren’t freezing in NYC right now! What’s your favorite side by side moment, and where was it?

I pebble you,
Ankit

"I Pebble You" is a heartfelt collection of thoughtful moments — articles, memes, videos, and insights —that spark joy and connection. Inspired by how penguins gift pebbles to their loved ones, it’s a space to pause, reflect, and share. Subscribe to receive these meaningful pebbles in your inbox, and add your own to help build something bigger — because together, we create more thoughtful connections.

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