explore · Team Building · 5–10 min · 2-10 people · medium energy

MTV Cribs: Remote Edition

A short, voluntary home or workspace tour inspired by the 90s TV show. It allows team members to share a glimpse of their personal environment.

When to use MTV Cribs: Remote Edition

To build deep empathy and connection by seeing the 'real life' context of colleagues.

What it solves

Feeling isolated or disconnected from the physical reality of remote teammates.

How to run MTV Cribs: Remote Edition, step by step

  1. Ask for a volunteer who is comfortable showing a small part of their home or desk (1 min).
  2. The volunteer 'hosts' a 3-minute tour, highlighting 2-3 interesting items (e.g., a favorite plant, a weird mug, a pet) (3 min).
  3. Allow 2 minutes for quick questions from the 'audience' (2 min).
  4. Repeat with one more person if time allows, or schedule for the next meeting (ongoing).

Materials needed

  • Webcam/Mobile device

Facilitator tips

  • Always make this optional; never pressure someone to show their home.
  • Encourage people to show their 'real' desk, not a perfectly cleaned version.

Common pitfalls

  • Technical issues with mobile WiFi during the tour
  • Tours going too long and eating into meeting time

Variations

  • Desk-only version: For those who want more privacy, just show the items on the desk and explain their significance.

Running it online or hybrid

Remote users walk their laptop/phone around; in-person users can show a photo of their 'home setup' on the big screen.

What it produces

Shared personal stories and a sense of 'knowing' the person behind the screen.

Origin

Adapted from Museum Hack — source

Build a session around MTV Cribs: Remote Edition

METODIC places MTV Cribs: Remote Edition inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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