Drawing on more than a decade of experience building the global Make Big Talk movement, Kalina Silverman examines how meaningful conversation can help address loneliness, strengthen relationships, and foster a greater sense of belonging. Combining research, personal stories, and practical conversation prompts, Big Talk offers an accessible framework for cultivating empathy, trust, and authentic connection in classrooms, workplaces, communities, and everyday life.
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Big Talk 101
Remember that everyone you meet is afraid of something, loves something, and has lost something.
-H. Jackson Brown, The Complete Life’s
Little Instruction BookMy approach to teaching Big Talk is built more on personal encounters than academic theories. In fact, the word educator comes from the Latin word educare, which means “to bring out what is within.” In that spirit, I’m here with you-not as an instructor, but as a guide and fellow human-helping to draw out what’s already within you!
Thousands of conversations have shaped the ideas and lessons in this book. I’ve discovered that genuine connection can happen anywhere, with anyone. By sharing stories, reflections, and moments that have moved me, I hope to help you open a path toward deeper connection.
Do it now.
On a sunlit walk with a friend in Venice Beach, an English couple stopped to ask me for directions. We struck up a conversation and moved past small talk, diving into Big Talk.
Big Talk: What is a brave choice you’re glad you made?
English woman: Some years ago, I was promoted to the job I had been trying to get for five years. Sadly, at that time, my youngest sister was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I remember when we were little kids, we used to play together with our teddy bears.
I decided to give up the job to look after her. We spent her last few weeks together.
I’m glad I made that decision, which I think is part of my “Do it now” philosophy. Because she was just forty-nine when she died. Literally, on her deathbed, she listed all the things she hadn’t done. Because at forty-nine, you haven’t done everything you wanted to do. So, if you’ve got a bucket list, do it; do it now. Don’t wait. Too many people put things off, and you never know what’s around the corner. So, take advantage of being alive today, and don’t put things off. Do it now.
This conversation reminded me what matters most in life: being there with the people you love and following your heart.
As Albert Einstein said, “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” This book aims to simplify the process of making meaningful connections while still honoring their significance.
Before we dive deep, we’ll start with the basics. Think of this chapter as a primer or tool kit-a collection of ideas and practical tips to help you build a strong foundation for making Big Talk. In the chapters ahead, we’ll explore the nuances, concepts, and deeper stories that transform Big Talk from conversation into connection.
Everyone has the ability-and the right-to build deeper connections. You don’t need to be an extrovert or a community leader, in therapy, or studying communications. You just need to be open to talking and listening to people.
Even if some people seem unapproachable or distant, remember that they, too, like everyone else, may silently carry a fond memory, ceaseless worry, or life dream.
Sometimes, I like to think of connection as a series of simple “equations” that capture the essence of meaningful interactions:
Curiosity + Empathy = A Big Talk Conversation
A Shared Experience + Openness to Others = A New Relationship
Shared Celebrations and Struggles + Collaboration = Community Building
These equations can help us frame social interactions to foster connection. Whether starting a conversation or strengthening a relationship, the key ingredients are always curiosity, openness, sharing, and empathy.
Before we get into the mechanics of making Big Talk, let’s talk about what Big Talk actually is (and isn’t).
Big Talk is:
- A communication approach for moving past small talk to ask deeper, more substantive questions and to make more meaningful life connections with just about anybody.
- A pathway to strengthening interpersonal relationships and building friendships.
- A storytelling tool to foster curiosity and empathy.
- A community-building tool to enhance belonging.
- An activity for self-reflection.
Big Talk is not:
- An excuse to step across people’s boundaries and/or dive into political opinions.
- A therapy session or substitute for professional mental health support.
- A platform for dominating conversations or proving a point.
- A one-size-fits-all approach-every conversation should adapt to the comfort and context of the people involved.
- A quick fix for building deep relationships, which takes time and genuine effort.
Remember that Big Talk doesn’t always involve long, philosophical conversations, nor does it force others into uncomfortable, deep discussions. The goal is to make room for connection without pressure and allow exchanges to happen naturally.
So you may be wondering, how does one make Big Talk? Big Talk begins with the art of asking questions. There are three simple guidelines for what makes a question “Big Talk.”
Big Talk questions are:
Open-ended: They invite more than a factual or “yes or no” response.
Universal: Any human being can answer them, no matter who they are or what they do. Big Talk conversations connect rather than divide.
Story-eliciting: Everyone would have a unique answer to the question, which invites people to share personal life experiences rather than discuss the outside world (e.g., the news or politics).
If asking a profound question feels awkward to you, gradually move from small talk to Big Talk. If you still feel strange about it, tell the person that you are reading a book called Big Talk and were prompted to ask someone a more meaningful question beyond small talk this week. You might be surprised to learn more about someone in five minutes of Big Talk than you had in the weeks or months of other small talk conversations.
Conversation Openers: From Open-Ended Small Talk to Big Talk
When meeting someone new for the first time, there is an art to transitioning from small talk to Big Talk. Try offering a light and friendly opener, which makes the receiving person more likely to accept your transition.
Here are some great conversation starters that strike a balance between being approachable and inviting deeper conversation:
1) “Hi! I love [compliment]. Where did you discover it? / How did you come to be that way? / What influences your taste?” Genuine and specific compliments are a great way to start conversations. They allow a person to share something more personal.
2) “Hello! I’m looking for [place or item]. Do you know where I can find it / how to get there? How did you come to be so knowledgeable about [X]?”
Asking for help is a natural way to start a conversation. It can lead to some shared experiences or helpful tips. The key is to thank them and then ask follow-up questions about their knowledge.
3) “I’ve noticed [something about the environment]-Do you see it too? What do you think?”
Commenting on the environment-whether music, architecture, a local event, art, or something else-is a spontaneous and casual way to invite the other person to share an experience or observation with you.
4) “Are you local? I’m interested in learning more about [X].” or “Hi, I’m [your name]. I’m trying to get to know people and the area around here. What do you love about this neighborhood? I’m grateful for recommendations!”
If you’re traveling or just moved to a new area, this is a natural way to engage with a local. People usually love giving advice, and this question invites them to share their personal experiences and tips. It can also make them feel knowledgeable and helpful.
5) “I’ve been wondering about [X]. What do you think?”
Asking for an opinion on something (avoid politics) that is a conversation starter (like something happening around you) is a great way to establish rapport.
6) “This might sound random, but what’s something you’re really into right now?”
Acknowledging randomness eliminates awkward questions. This question is open and curious, allowing the other person to express their current hobbies, interests, or projects.
These openers are not too invasive, but they are engaging enough to invite a response that can naturally transition small talk to Big Talk.
Once you have established rapport with someone, you can move into Big Talk (we will cover more of that throughout this book). After asking a Big Talk question, remember to:
- Practice active listening and ask follow-up questions to demonstrate your interest while digging deeper.
- Be authentic and share vulnerabilities.
- Show empathy and find a commonality (this could be a shared idea, passion, experience, struggle, or story).
Tips for Making Big Talk
Avoid superlatives: Superlatives can pigeonhole people into giving simple answers. Instead of using phrases like “most” or “favorite,” try using phrases like “one of the” or “some.” For example, instead of asking, “What was your favorite part of the trip?” ask, “What are some memorable moments from the trip?”
Consider the past and future: Ask questions that help you learn about someone’s history or future aspirations. For example:
“Have you always wanted to do [X], or was there a turning point in your life?”
“What goals do you hope to achieve in the coming years?”
“What is your dream for the future?”
Avoid using technology as a crutch: Instead of reaching for your phone when feeling socially awkward, smile and look around. Try walking around or connecting with someone else in the room.Accept rejection: Not everyone will engage in Big Talk, and that’s okay. Recognize when someone isn’t comfortable with deeper conversation and move on. A conversation requires both participants to be willing to engage.
Know your environment: Some environments are better for Big Talk than others. Great settings include road trips, team-bonding events, dinner parties, and community meetings. Avoid making Big Talk in office spaces or meetings with rushed agendas, where the focus is on tasks rather than personal connection.
Ask to ask a question: Sometimes the simplest gateway to making Big Talk is just asking, “Can I ask you a question?” Asking for permission first helps the other person feel more comfortable and in control. It also prepares them to expect something a little deeper or out of the ordinary.
Ask a person, not just the internet: If you’re curious about something, try asking a real person instead of immediately turning to the internet. It gives them a chance to share their perspective or knowledge-and gives you a chance to connect on a human level.
Ask “What’s the story of . . . ?”: When you notice something unique about someone, turn your curiosity into connection by asking, “What’s the story of . . . ?” For example: “What’s the story of your tattoo?” or “What’s the story of how you broke your leg?” Questions like these invite personal storytelling and often lead to meaningful conversations.
Network and Connect More Effectively with Big Talk
A friend of mine who is a rapper and producer told me he takes a stack of Big Talk Question Cards to music industry events. When he meets someone new, he invites them to draw a card and answer a question. This simple approach helps steer conversations away from surface-level exchanges and makes him memorable. If carrying physical cards doesn’t appeal to you, you can still reframe typical small talk questions into more substantive ones that create meaningful connections.
Alternative Ways to Ask “What Do You Do?”
The question “What do you do?” is often asked in social settings, but it usually results in a standard career-focused answer. To spark a deeper conversation, try asking:
- “What do you love to do?”
- “What does your world look like?”
- “How do you spend your days?”
- “What are you passionate about?”
- “What’s your idea of a perfect day?”
- “What projects are you working on that excite you?”
More Small Talk vs. Big Talk Examples
Here’s how you can transform small talk into Big Talk and turn typical topics into more meaningful conversations around personal experiences and emotions:
From Weather to Values:
Small Talk: “It’s so nice out!”
Big Talk: “How do you love to spend a beautiful day outside?”
From Work to Passion:
Small Talk: “How’s work?”
Big Talk: “What projects are you excited about working on right now?”
From Hobbies to Growth:
Small Talk: “What are your hobbies?”
Big Talk: “What new activities are you excited to explore?”
From Compliments to Meaning:
Small Talk: “Nice outfit!”
Big Talk: “What inspires your sense of style? Where do you love to shop that others might not know about?”
From Family to Relationships:
Small Talk: “How’s your family?”
Big Talk: “What recent memories have you made with your family?” / “What’s a new memory you hope to create with your family soon?”
From Current Events to Values:
Small Talk: “Did you hear about (current event)?”
Big Talk: “How do you feel about the direction we’re moving in as a community?”
Creating Your Own Big Talk Questions
This book offers plenty of examples of Big Talk questions, but you’ll soon be able to develop your own questions. Think about what you genuinely want to know. Is there something you’re curious about or going through that could spark a conversation? Perhaps you’re grieving and want to know how others cope with loss. Developing your own Big Talk questions based on universal human experiences can help you move past surface-level exchanges. Remember, your questions should be open-ended, meaningful, and universal. Instead of yes/no questions, ask things that open the door to deeper reflection. For example, if you’re going through a period of transformation, ask, “What’s something you’ve changed your perspective on recently, and why?”
Practice Makes Perfect!
Big Talk takes practice. It’s a skill that grows over time. With every conversation, you’ll improve at turning small talk into a chance to truly understand and connect with others. The more you practice, the more fulfilling your interactions will become.
Safety First
When engaging in Big Talk or any activity, prioritize physical and emotional safety for yourself and others. Trust your gut-if something feels off, don’t proceed.
Emotional Safety Tips
Respect boundaries: Let people decline questions without judgment.
Show empathy: Respond kindly to vulnerable stories. I often say, “Thank you for sharing.”
Be patient: Allow time for processing. I say things like “Take your time” or “We can skip this question if you prefer not to answer.”
Physical Safety Tips
Choose safe spaces: I prefer parks, cafés, community centers, or tourist zones, which are well-lit and have other people around.
Don’t go alone: I sometimes bring my husband or a friend on walks to feel safer when talking to strangers.
Stick to familiar places: Pick locations you know and can navigate easily.
Stay prepared: Secure your phone, keys, and wallet, bring water, and know where restrooms are.
Be mindful of your body language: Sometimes, I offer a handshake and other times, I keep more distance.
If Someone Is in Crisis
Recognize distress: Look for silence, agitation, or someone seeming overwhelmed. Stay calm and compassionate.
Offer support: Ask how they’re feeling and what might help. Sometimes, stepping outside for fresh air or deep breathing can make a difference.
Seek help if needed: If someone mentions self-harm, ask directly and call 911 if there’s immediate danger. Otherwise, gently suggest they talk to a counselor or trusted confidante. For more resources, visit “Crisis Hotlines and Resources,” American Psychological Association, apa.org/topics/crisis-hotlines.
Copyright © 2026 by Kalina Silverman. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Kalina Silverman is the creator of Big Talk (@MakeBigTalk). She graduated from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University and received a prestigious Fulbright award to pursue cross-cultural communications research in Singapore. She serves as a U.S. Fulbright ambassador, in addition to her work as an author, video journalist, speaker, and artist. Her storytelling has raised millions for social impact campaigns, inspiring people all over the world. Big Talk has been featured in USA Today, The Washington Post, Good Morning America, Time, People, PBS, and more. When she’s not making Big Talk, Kalina loves to surf, practice martial arts, paint, write and play music, and adventure outdoors.
