Can You Learn to Be Good at Small Talk?

Small talk dread is real, but most advice for overcoming it is either too vague or actively counterproductive. This episode cuts through the self-help noise to examine what conversation research actually says works. We break down why "just be curious" fails the people who need it most, why "power moves" like deliberate mirroring backfire, and what specific tactics — like the add-a-sentence rule and support shifting — can make real difference. Whether you're navigating office parties, networking events, or just want to feel less awkward in everyday interactions, this episode offers concrete, research-backed strategies for building conversational competence without pretending to be someone you're not. Episode #725666 — open it directly at myweirdprompts.com/725666