I work for an office-optional company and my nearest coworker is 500 miles away. For what reason would companies constrain themselves to the local talent pool just so you can have some friends? And if they are willing to do that for you, we're right back to the venue not mattering.

> your company can hire from anywhere.

No need for nationalistic conspiracy theories. If your employer wants to replace you with an outsourced company or worker they will do so regardless of remote work policies, as it already happens.

That isn't what I meant at all. I meant within the same state or country, but too far away to meet in person.

My apologies. I see this statement often on some very odd forums, implying people will be outsourced and jobs sent abroad. I jumped to conclusions too early.

Here in europe my coworkers and i debated a few times wether we should all take a trip to spain and work from there for a week. A team building exercise which we can afford since we dont waste money commuting. Maybe you could explore something similar, or if not, go out with friends and live your life outside the 8 hours.