Hi,
I'm trying to validate an idea with some of my old colleagues that I haven't been in touch with for like 3 years.
A lot of people recommend when talking to people that have the problems you're trying to solve ask them directly in person, either ask to meet in a coffee shop or video call them but since I haven't talked to them for years, It'll be awkward to ask things like that.
I'm thinking is it ok if I try to validate through just chat (Whatsapp, dm, etc)?

Or should I ask other random people?
Or are there any other ways to validate an idea?