In this heartfelt and deeply inspiring episode, Kerryn Powell sits down with Neil Milton, founder of The Table Talk Project, to explore how one man’s lived experience of silence and feeling unheard has become a catalyst for change in families and communities across Australia.

Born from a desire to help others feel listened to and valued, The Table Talk Project is a practical and powerful initiative focused on creating safe, meaningful conversations around the dinner table. Neil shares his personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma and discovering the transformative power of being genuinely heard. His vision is simple yet profound—bring people back to the table. Through a beautifully designed conversation framework using a “menu” of Entrée (food), Main (questions that matter), and Dessert (emotional check-ins), families are guided to reconnect, listen, and grow together.

Neil also reveals insights from his pilot programs in schools, highlighting significant improvements in family communication. This conversation is a reminder that every voice matters and that when we create space for open, authentic dialogue, we build stronger relationships and contribute to stronger, more connected communities.

Key Learnings:

Connection starts with presence—a shared meal and meaningful conversation can transform relationships.
Contribution is rooted in lived experience; personal pain can be turned into purpose.
Community is built one table at a time; creating safe spaces helps reduce isolation and fosters belonging.
The power of a simple question can open the door to trust, vulnerability, and healing.
Practical tips for facilitating structured conversations at home, school, or the workplace.

Why is this subject relevant to today's society?In an era of increasing digital distractions, mental health challenges, and diminishing face-to-face interactions, fostering authentic conversations within families is more critical than ever. Strong family communication is essential for emotional support, resilience, and mental well-being, making Neil's work particularly timely and impactful.

Reflection Questions:

How often does your family engage in meaningful conversations?
Do you feel genuinely heard and understood by those closest to you?
What barriers prevent open and honest dialogue in your family or close relationships?
How might structured conversations, like Neil’s Table Talk approach, positively impact your family's relationships and mental health?

📣 Get Involved or Connect with Neil:

🌐 Website: www.tabletalkproject.org
📧 Email: info@tabletalkproject.org
📣 Speaking, Workshops & Partnerships: Neil is available for speaking engagements, immersive programs, and collaborative partnerships with aligned organisations.

💬 What conversations are you making space for?

Want to connect or start having better conversations?

💬 Stay in touch or Contact our host Kerryn Powell to learn how Kerryn works with individuals, teams and groups who want to connect and create impact through better conversations

W: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.kerryn-powell.com.au⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
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Transform YOUR conversations and unlock opportunities with Kerryn Powell. Start with the FREE 5-day "Make your conversations count " challenge ⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE ⁠⁠⁠

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Conversations and connections: Living life on your own terms