No Small Talk- Conversation Starters for Introverts

Do you know that the power to build confidence is within you? And that it only takes some simple actionable steps? Its true!

“You are the captain of your own ship, and master of your own faith” -Dr. Ivan Joseph

Today we share with you a TEDTalk from Dr. Ivan Joseph, Professor, Soccer Coach and author of the best-selling book, You Got This: Mastering the Skill of Self-Confidence.

Dr. Ivan’s TEDTalk attracted over 22 Million views on youtube, and in it he shares some really good tips, and steps that you can take today to build self confidence.

Dr. Ivan talks about:

· Repetition; how doing things over and over makes you better and in turn builds self confidence

· Replacing negative talk, with positive self talk

· Getting away from people that tear you down

· Interpreting feedback and criticism the way you want

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

In today’s episode, we will be doing something a little different. In fact, I don’t think we have ever actually done this on the podcast before! Today Ebony will be answering some questions from you, our lovely listeners and virtual friends. Typically, at the end of every episode, we invite you to reach out to us and send us your comments or questions. And many of you are really great at connecting with us and reaching out to us on social media. So thank you! We love connecting with our listeners and virtual friends online. In this episode, we get a chance to answer some of your questions for you right on the podcast.

Let’s get started!

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Let’s talk about networking (Are you already thinking NOOO?!?)

As introverts, so many of us overthink networking. It might sound intimidating and uncomfortable. But in today’s episode, our amazing guest LaShana Johnson Price is going to break through those stereotype myths, and show us that it doesn’t have to be scary. She shares with us that networking is all about being who you are, networking the way God made you, showing up with intention and goals, and using your introversion as the superpower it is! Although Shana is not an introvert and considers herself an extreme extrovert, she has so many great tips that I feel will help us introverts approach networking in a positive and natural way.

Shana is the Owner and Ceo of The Connection Guru, LLC® is on a mission to help women effectively build their networks by networking as they are designed. 

Shana is passionate, and genuine about creating and building deeper connections with people.  We love how she is are using her platform to cheer on and empower other women to do the same. 

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Are you over thinking? And is your over thinking getting in the way of fulfilling your purpose or doing something you love, or getting to know someone you’re interested in? Are you over analyzing every little detail in order to make what you tell yourself is a smart, and calculated decision? Maybe your over thinking causing you to make no decision at all?

As introverts, it's easy for us to do all of those things! We get in our head and start over analyzing! If this sounds like you, listen in, because Ebony is sharing tons of amazing tips that are going to help get you out of your head, taking action, and enjoying your life the way you are meant to!

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Let's talk about confidence.

Some people seem like they're born with it, while so many others struggle with it. For those who don't seem to have that natural born flair, no worries, being more confident can be learned and developed. 

In today's episode, Sherry shares five tips which she practices regularly in order to speak, act and feel more confident as she interacts with people and enters into social settings, whether at work, at a business conference or on a date.  

After listening in, let us know which one resonates with you the most. Screenshot this episode, and share it in your stories, and tag us! We LOVE hearing from you!

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Today we have another conversation starter episode: What life experience defines and makes up who you are today?

We absolutely love conversation starters that cause you to look within and explore your inner thoughts, concerns and life passion. A lot of times it's so easy to play it safe and talk about topics that have nothing to do with us or who we are, whether that's the news, the latest celebrity gossip or the weather. But those typically don't foster the type of connection that will lead to meaningful relationships.

Today's question definitely forces you to go beyond surface small talk. It calls you to think about a moment that changed your life in a significant way, whether it was a entering a new stage in your life, a childhood experience, or an unexpected circumstance that forced you to look at yourself differently. 

And we invited our internet friend, Tiera Haynes to join the conversation. Tierra is a speaker, content creator, momcoach, and most recently an author.  She uses her platform to empower moms to find their inner strengths and passions outside of motherhood. We wanted to learn more about her, specifically how she has so much energy to do all that she does with fun, passion and purpose. Her page is so LIVE! We know you'll enjoy her energy just as much as we do!

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions. The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Have you met someone and instantly felt a connection, like you just want to talk to them forever?!

Well that's how today's guest, Yemisi Odusanya, makes you feel when you're with her. She leads with authenticity,  curiosity, service and confidence and her energy quickly draws you in and makes it some easy to connect with her.  That's the type of connection we're drawn to and promote here on the podcast.

Our conversation starter today is: What are you most worried about in our country moving forward and what are you most optimistic about?

This conversation starter led to so many amazing topics such as struggling with raising our children in a safe environment where they can actually live and thrive yet keep them protected, the struggle with social media and the never ending battle with keeping a limit on screen time. (And yes - This turned into talking about setting boundaries for ourselves as adults!) That's important too! We discussed how COVID has rocked our world and going back to what will be our "new" normal. And then the optimism of having females in leadership roles, Nigerians in leadership roles, and how empowering it is for women, and especially, women of color to see.

As always, we touched on everything and walked away feeling inspired and oh so good!

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Privilege.... What are the first thoughts that come to mind when you think of this word? Anger? Shame?

If you're like many, you may avoid talking about privilege or only talk about it with certain people because it can be triggering and even divisive, especially in light of the events that happened last summer.

But have you thought about how YOU may have privilege?

On today's episode we explore this topic with our fellow introvert friend Delores Sarfo-Darko. Delores Sarfo-Darko is a driven dreamer, educator, storyteller, and student advocate. She has a passion to help students and young adults learn to embrace their journey. Her platform, Flourish with Delores, strives to help you fulfill your dreams as you engage in her curated workshops and visual resources.   We so admire how Delores uses her platform to amplify the voices of black women and as a source of inspiration.

If you struggle with discussing privilege or identifying your own privilege, make sure to check out this conversation, which led to a discussion on so many other topics (as always!)

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Are you a super ambitious introvert, who wants to be the best at everything you do? Well, so is Ebony, and when she heard Katie Rasoul's TEDx Talk, she thought "That sounds like me!" So we wanted to share with you this TEDx Talk, because we thought that there is probably some listeners that can relate to this as well.

Katie Rasoul is a fellow introvert and author of the book Hidden Brilliance. Katie is a high-achieving introvert. Someone who feels the intense tug between the drive to achieve more and the need for solitude, between going out to conquer the world fighting with the desire to simply be alone.

Ebony had a similar journey to Katie's and learned that her value is not based on accolades or accomplishments That her value also comes from experiences and our journey. And that journey includes the wins and the losses. There is value from failing and lessons that can be learned and shared from our mistakes in life.

So, if you consider yourself a high achieving introvert, remember to not base your value on what you can and cannot achieve. But instead create your own definition of success, and enjoy your journey along the way.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Why is it important to shoot your shot or take initiative? Well for one, taking a chance at something can turn out to be life changing, and that life change won’t happen without your actions and initiative!

Today, Ebony and Sherry are talking about their 3 experiences when they decided to shoot their shot. They are sharing about taking chances, and initiatives they took to reach their goals and the things they wanted to accomplish in life. As introverts it can be easy to stay in our comfort zone, and not push ourselves to try new things, or surround ourselves with new people. But getting out of our comfort zones and pushing ourselves is what allows us to grow and evolve. If you have a goal to improve your situation there is no getting around taking chances! Without action there will be zero results!  

We hope you enjoy this discussion with Ebony and Sherry, and leave inspired and encouraged to go after your goals and dreams and turn them into a reality!

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

We all know that the world has tons of misconceptions and assumptions about introverts: who we are, who we're not and why we can or can't be fixed. But what if the misconceptions come from your own sisters?! We expect that the very people we grew up with and lived with will see us the same way we see ourselves. But apparently, that's NOT always the case.

In this episode, Ebony invites her 3 sisters,  Abies Senior, Ivie Omede and Orobosa Omede to the podcast and they duke it out. The ladies challenge each other's thoughts and assumptions about introverts and extroverts, as well as their perceptions of each other. The conversation gets VERY interesting. For one thing, not everyone believed Ebony was an introvert *sips tea*.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Would you like to deepen your connection to your spouse, or someone you’re in a relationship with, but not sure how?

Today, Ebony will be exploring different ways that couples, specifically married couples, can deepen their connection, by understanding the different types of intimacy. In relationships and marriage, fulfilling each area of intimacy will help strengthen your bond. It is a natural part of developing the relationship and growing closer. It’s not just physical! Ebony will be going over multiple ways you can build a deeper connection with the person you love.

Ebony and her husband have been married for almost 10 years, so she is sharing with us her perspective on developing intimacy in her marriage. Ebony explores:

• The different kinds of intimacy that help cultivate your marriage
• How you can use our conversation starters with your spouse to lead to a deeper conversation
• How as introverts, we need to intentionally work on our relationships
• How deepening your connection with your spouse will also deepen your family bond

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Sherry is really calling us out in this episode! Are you an introvert who finds herself avoiding events, conversations, and networking?  

That may be impacting us in more ways than we think! If we want to up level our lives - we need people! As introverts we want meaningful, strong, and real relationships. So instead of running away from every event out of fear of small talk, let's change those conversations!  

We can change those conversations by using 3 relationship-building pillars that Sherry will be sharing with us today. These 3 pillars are going to help you feel more confident, authentic, and open. So many of us don't find this easy to do, but with a roadmap to help us navigate through these events successfully, your life will become more fulfilled, and in turn positively impact others as well.

Sherry will be sharing with you: 

• Why we need to stop making excuses and get out there! 
• The impact building relationships will make on you and you will make on others 
• Ways you can mentally prepare to walk into events confidently 

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Preparing for social settings and interactions will help you feel more comfortable and confident. What better way to prepare than to have 1 or 2 conversation starters in your tool kit that you can use anywhere?

In today's episode we compile conversation starters from guests from our previous episodes. These conversation starters are sure to create intimacy and connection with anyone you're talking to.  Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions. The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others. 

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Today we are changing things up a bit.....

You've heard Sherry and I share with you all before how we've been dealing with quarantining, social distancing and staying at home. And I've also been working from home as well as home schooling my children! I think as parents, it's important to check in and talk to our children during these times. It's important to see how they are doing, and what their experience and perspective is in all of this. How they've been dealing with staying home as well, and social distancing.

Not every child's experience is the same! You will get to hear two very different opinions from two of my children - One experiences struggles with plans changing, missing their friends, and one is actually taking the quarantine quite well and is happy to be at home!

They also share about:

• What it's like to be homeschooled
  
• Their perspective on spending more time at home
  
• Advice to other kids who are missing friends, and doing things outside
  

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Do you ever sit back and say to yourself..."Wow, I miss feeling (fill in the blank). 

This could be you reminiscing about the happiest time in your life, who you were with and what you were doing; or reflecting on the person you used to be...maybe more fun? Carefree? Unafraid? Or you weren't worried about impressing anybody, you were stubborn, and determined to be who you wanted to be, and do what you truly enjoyed doing.  

This is what Sherry and Ebony get into in this week’s episode. The seasons of life oftentimes have the effect of changing how we see things, how we think, and how we feel. This change can be good and bad. And while we often talk about the good that comes with the journey of life, today we talk about some of the things we lost along the way and wish to have back.  

We also talk about: 

• The feeling of freedom and lack of worry 
• Why we shouldn’t internalize everything 
• Why it’s beneficial to sometimes say “No”  

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

There are over 40 million people dating online right now. And that was BEFORE COVID! So many people have had to turn to online dating during these unprecedented times. 

Our lives have changed in so many ways, and dating has been no exception! So if you have found yourself looking for that special someone online, and have questions like, "What should my profile picture be?" "What should my bio say?" "How do I know if that person is right for me?" Then you're going to want to tune in! 

We all have had to learn to pivot, be more creative and find a new way of doing things. In this episode, we wanted to share with you some tips on dating online successfully, (since there're so many of us doing it right now!) and highlight tips shared by a friend who met his wife on match.com. 

Tips include: 

• Be Honest and Kind Always
•  Don't just say "Hi".  Personalize your greeting and message
•  Know when to transition conversation offline and work on meeting in person 
• Having a strong bio and banging, but true profile pic! 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Meetup – a site on which like-minded people can get together to learn, do, and share new things

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Happy hours, networking events, conferences... have you ever dodged these events because you hate large crowds and dread small talk? Do you struggle with initiating more meaningful conversations in your social interactions? In today’s episode, Sherry shares 3 ways to steer any conversation to get what you desire most- meaningful conversations.

We desire meaningful conversations! Connection. REAL talk! We are over the shallow conversations that feel pointless and like a waste of time. As introverts, if a conversation doesn’t go beyond small talk, we feel like we don’t have a chance to create a significant relationship. And because we’re always looking for meaningful conversations, we assume we won’t be get those at happy hour events.  But while it may seem tempting to avoid networking and small talk all together, that's not the best idea either.  If we want to go further faster, we need to rely on our relationships and network. 

Sherry also talks about:

• How to take the lead in conversations
• How to prepare for and enjoy those events you might typically dread
• Why creating meaningful connections will help you feel fulfilled and more satisfied.
• The importance of quality relationships
  

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

In today's episode we are changing things up a little bit. Ebony talks about something that has been on her mind and heart lately- the power of a positive mindset. 

This episode is all about encouraging you to be intentional about keeping a positive mindset and speaking positivity into your life. 

As introverts we are very in tune with ourselves. We tend to be very inward turning and focus on our thoughts and our feelings. And so because of this, the success of our well being can very well depend on our mindset.  Ebony shares some tips about starting your day off on a good note, practicing gratitude and more easy steps that we can start doing today to have a more positive mindset.

With everything that has happened in 2020 it is understandable that people have struggled to keep a positive mindset. And many of us have concerns for what the rest of the year will bring as well. But we need to be intentional about not staying in a case of despair. Let's speak light and positivity into our lives and encourage one another. We are all in this together!

Ebony also talks about:

• How powerful mindset can truly be
• The benefits and value of incorporating positive affirmations into your daily routine
• Why we should remove negativity from our lives
• The importance of self-care 

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

In today's episode we talk about the importance of branding even as an introvert and offer some verbal and nonverbal ways to effectively and confidently do it without overwhelm.   

So, what is the best way to do this? It can start with authentically portraying yourself, and embracing what makes you unique.  Our friend, Yetunde Shorters talks to us about personal branding and using our personalities to set us apart from our competitors. People want to invest in those that they emotionally connect with, and Yetunde tells us steps we can take to start showing our true selves.   

Yetunde thrives on helping female entrepreneur leaders get clear on what their purpose is so that they can have more impact on the world, and build a community around it.

 We also talk about:

•  How to bring your personality to your brand but still be professional and not overshare
•  How to know if your brand aligns with your core values
•  How to identify our individual personal values 
• What’s one thing introverts can do TODAY to start building their personal brand? 

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Do you struggle with always having to have a plan for your life? For your family's life? Or the opposite, being comfortable just the way things are? We start today's episode with conversation starter - Do you live more in the moment or plan for the future and why? 

We are joined by fellow introvert, Teacher, and Podcaster Jeanette Hendrix.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Our experiences with planning and preparing for different phases in our lives, and the lessons that came from that
• The value of finding balance in preparing for the future and allowing things to be
• Being confident and believing that we have what it takes, even in the most difficult and random situations of life
• Being ok with saying "I don't know"

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

In the midst of a global pandemic, social injustice, and the many other challenges that came in 2020, we all need a little peace in our lives. So, for today’s conversation starter we asked ourselves “Where do you go to find peace and why?”

On today’s episode we are joined by fellow introvert Courtney Ferguson, a blogger and actress who hates small talk just like us.

We also talk about:

• What peace means to us
• How we find peace in our daily lives
• The different activities and self-care tips that's helping us survive COVID-19 
• The importance of self-care and being intentional about making time to take care of one’s physical and mental health.

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Are there some things that you do, beliefs that you hold on to, or behaviors that you grew up with that you now look at and ask "Where did I learn this from and does it actually make sense for me in this moment in my life?

There are certain things that we were taught, that were nurtured, or we just picked up on unconsciously. And as we do this thing called "adulting", we realize some of these things are no longer serving us or aren't actually true. And so, the journey of unlearning these things begins, which isn't always easy or comfortable.

On today's episode we are joined by friend to the show Petra Pindar, and we explore this question. Petra is President & CEO, of Petra Pindar Inc., a non profit organization dedicated to building and cultivating leaders in both the faith and business sectors.

We also talk about:

How we had to unlearn that you must please and appease everyone, especially those that are close to you, that successful friendships and relationships are meant to last forever, that you're responsible for the disappointments that happen in your life and that if you work harder and longer, you'll be successful.

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Have you ever looked at your life and thought "this is not what I had in mind when I was 10"? 

Maybe you didn't expect to be where you are today in your career, or that you'd be single or that you'd have kids. Whatever it is, we're sure that there are some things that your younger self would not believe about your life today.   On today's episode we are joined by fellow introvert Marsha Badger, and explore this question. Marsha is a Journalist and Founder of the lifestyle website and podcast Introvert N the City. 

We also talk about:  

• The difficulties of adulting
• The challenges of being single in your 30's
• The importance of community when raising kids
• Dealing with 2 pandemics in 2020 and shifting plans and goals in order to adjust

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Fun fact: Sherry hosted a "No Small Talk" party about 2 years ago at the recommendation of a friend, and that's how the podcast got started. Yup! 

And now, is the perfect time for YOU to have your own No Small Talk party. You may not take up podcasting afterwards, but you will learn new and interesting things about your friends and deepen your relationships. On today's episode we talk about how you can host your very own No Small Talk party using our conversation starters, and other ways people have used them to build new friendships or strengthen existing ones. We also discuss what new things you can expect from the podcast.

Resources:

On today’s episode we did something a little different and brought you No Small Talk conversation starters- the couples edition. Our special guest today is Chimdi, my (Ebony) husband of life. On this episode we take turns asking each other some really good conversation starter questions.

In this episode, we explore the following questions:

• What do you remember about the first time we met?
• If you could grant me one wish what would it be?
• If you could go back to when we started our relationship, what advice would you give yourself?
• And more!

These conversation starters are great for couples at any stage in your relationship. We encourage couples to use our conversation starter questions as an opportunity to create an atmosphere where you can foster deep conversations, reminisce on the past and even learn new things about each other, even if you have been together forever. Conversation starters are a great way for couples to grow with each other and build deeper connections. We hope that you will be encouraged by this episode to have those deeper conversations within your already established intimate relationships too!

Get Social with Us:

Today we are continuing to let down our walls, letting go of shame and embracing full vulnerability. We have another solo episode where I share a few things that I’m afraid for people to know about me. Now, on the surface they may not seem like big things, but for me, they are things I have struggled with and still struggle with from time to time; and a woman who cares so much about the perception of others, it was really hard for me to break down these walls. But I did it. I put on my big girl pants, and spoke my truth.

On this podcast we like to encourage you all to feel open to building those deeper connections, and sometimes that will require you to go to a place where you have to be vulnerable and uncomfortable. You know what they say, great things don’t come from staying in our comfort zones.

I hope that by Sherry and I sharing these stories and truths, you'd also be encouraged to identify those parts of your lives that you've been afraid to share with others and dare to start breaking down walls in order to build meaningful connections at work, at home, in your company and in love.

In this episode, you'll find out about the things I've been afraid to discuss including: My own experience dealing with Imposter syndrome with my career and success, dealing with Mommy Guilt and feeling inadequate as a mother at times, and also my issue with internalizing and overthinking criticism and fear of others perceptions of me. 

Social Media:

Would you believe it if we told you that we have an introvert friend who is really quiet but did something major like delivered a TEDTalk to hundreds of people. Would you believe us? It's true!

Well, sort of. Today we share with you a TEDTalk from our friend (in our head) and the Queen of introversion, Susan Cain.  Susan's TEDTalk has attracted over 10M views on YouTube, and in it she argues that introverts bring extraordinary talents and abilities to the world that should be celebrated and encouraged; not shamed. 

Susan also talks about:

• The typical biases and labels associated with introversion
• The tendency of introverts to go out of our way to fit in or be accepted, instead of putting ourselves in the zone of stimulation that works for us
• The love and value introverts place on community and collaboration, but the need to balance that with solitude and reflection
• Introverts' pursuit of passion and drive to do what is right which sometimes puts us in the spotlight, even if uncomfortable
  

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

We often set rules or boundaries to protect our space, time, and peace of mind. And sometimes we're fighting with others to respect these boundaries, but sometimes we're struggling to respect those boundaries as well.   Today we discuss the different personal boundaries we've set in our lives and the reasons why these are important to us.  

We also talk about: 

• How setting clear boundaries can help strengthen relationships by allowing us to be more present and focused 
• The value of routines and rules in raising children and the impact that it has on self care 
• The effect of being "plugged in" all the time on our mental health 
• The importance of clearly explaining our boundaries and rules to close friends and loved ones so that they are aware of our desires and needs, and how we want to be treated  

Get Social with Us: 

If you had to leave your home for a period of time and can only pick 3 things from your home, what would you pick?

Despite all the stuff we buy and consume, and fill our homes and lives with, there's probably just a few things that we really need or value. Whether those things come from a more practical perspective or they have some sort of sentimental value that you can't let go of, this conversation explores the things that matter to us most.  

We also talk about:

Have you ever been perceived as shy, withdrawn, or quiet? Or maybe you've been called a recluse? 

If you're an introvert, you've likely been called all of these and more, and are just generally misunderstood and sometimes overshadowed by our more extroverted friends which can sometimes leave us feeling less than, not good enough, and not seen or heard.  In today's episode, we discuss the tell-tale signs that you're a fellow introvert and the common misconceptions people have about us. 

We also talk about: 

• When we discovered we were introverts 
• The impact our careers have had on creating our more introverted personalities 
• Famous leaders and personalities who are introverts 
• The importance of embracing your unique skills, talents and personality traits to lead and show up more confidently as an introvert in your personal and professional life 

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode: 

Do you struggle as an introvert on how to get involved in social activism? ⁣
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For many of us, traditional forms of activism like marches, protests and door-to-door canvassing can be overwhelming and draining.  In today’s No Small Talk episode we share a special TEDx Talk by Sarah Corbett, “Activism needs Introverts”.  Sarah explains that we introverts have other ways we can be social activists and still be bold (but quiet)!
⁣
 We found this TEDx Talk perfect for this season that we’re in for those introverts looking for the quieter ways looking to promote social change. ⁣
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Here's what to expect:

• General characteristics of introverts
  
• Why activism needs introverts
  
• Quiet ways that introverts can engage people in social change without all the “loud” stuff ⁣
  

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

The question for today's episode asks about the first thing on a person's mind when they wake up in the morning.  And while you may assume that the discussion would center around morning routines, nah- not necessarily! 

This question can elicit truths about a person's priorities, fears, frustrations or.... actual routine! The point is it's unpredictable! And while we answered the question, it wasn't what most may have expected, since it didn't involve alarm clocks and snooze buttons! For instance, Sherry shared some very personal information about her fears and anxiety concerning being single. And Ebony discussed getting herself and her children into a routine in light of COVID-19.  

We also talk about: 

• The power of examining people in your life or a famous person who resembles your story and where you want to be, a different type of "vision board" 
• The significance of female role models like Michele Obama and Meghan Markle for women in their mid to late 30's hoping to start a family 
• The difficulties in trying to maintain sleeping patterns and daily routines during COVID and steps we can take to stay balanced and re-recreate "normalcy" 

Resources:

On today’s episode we ask “What Childish Things Do you Still Do as an Adult?”

This question quickly had us wondering what exactly is considered childish behavior.  Is it watching cartoons or the Disney channel? Is it saying the most “basic” prayer before you eat that you’ve been saying since you were three or is it something else?⁣  During this season that we all are in, we all need laughter and some light and fun conversations. This is one conversation starter that proves that conversations and connection building don’t always have to be serious and heavy.⁣

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

We also talk about:

• Adult Content in children's television shows and cartoons
  
• How to share a fun fact about yourself in conversations so that you are more relatable
  

Resources:

On today’s episode we ask “If you can become an expert at something, what would it be?” Random right? But it's fun! The answer to this can be a useless talent or a very valuable skill. A random question turned into really fun girl chat and revealed some interesting and surprising things. 

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

We also talk about:

• Distant Learning with kids during COVID-19
• Using social distancing and COVID-19 as a time to learn new skills
• Challenge of dating in 2020 and not giving up
• Use of matchmakers while dating
• Being open to dating someone who was hooked up with your friend

Resources:

Today's episode we ask "What is the Best Gift That Anyone Has Ever Given You?"  What we love about this question is that it's especially useful if you're actually trying to get the person a gift- so you no longer have to fall back on gift cards, which are SO impersonal.  The question also allows you to learn new things about a person. For instance, we discovered another thing we have in common- our love language! Funny enough, it's not gifts.

Oftentimes, we think we have to buy the largest, most expensive gift in order for it to be the best gift ever.  Sometimes it's true, sometimes it isn't. But, regardless of the cost,  a really good gift is truly priceless. It makes you feel seen, understood and loved. And that's what we all really want out of all of our relationships right?!

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Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Today's episode we ask "What is Something Unexpected that has Changed in the Last Few Years"?  This question requires deep introspection and is a great way to go on a person's personal life journey as they discuss how they've changed, whether physically, personally, professionally or spiritually.  This conversation can be as light or deep as you want it to be, but it will create connection as you're invited into the person's personal evolution.  Listen in as we talk about our personal changes over the years and how our change occurred irrespective of anyone's thoughts or opinions......and then how we ended up talking about hair discrimination and unconscious bias in the workplace. You never know where these conversations end up. 

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

Today's episode we ask "What is the Most Important Thing in Your Life"?  This question is a great way to find out what someone prioritizes in life.  Is it Family? Money? Work? Travel? Listen in and find out how COVID-19 and social distancing helped reinforce what's important to us.

Our conversation starters are designed to create more interesting and memorable social interactions.  The great thing about our conversation starters is that they start off with one basic question, but will prompt a back-and-forth exchange of ideas and lead to other interesting topics. Use them and watch your relationships grow stronger as you share your answers and listen to others.

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Covid-19 has all of us at home, social distancing and missing human interaction and connection. Who would have ever thought that we’d be limited in how we interact with one another, when we interact with them and where we interact with them.  Although us introverts value me time, we also value and are inspired by meaningful am inspiring interactions that leads to deep connection.

In today’s episode we share a special TEDx Talk by Dan Foxx.  In his TEDx Talk, Dan says that the key to unlocking human connection is found in our ability let go of our ego and authentically care for others. As introverts that enjoy meaningful connections, it is important for us to get out of our heads and stop worrying about our insecurities, fears and anxieties around speaking to people. Stop focusing on how we sound or what we should be talking about, and focus on the person we’re speaking to, what they’re interested in, what they’re motivated by and simply connect with them.

Here's what to expect:

• The hidden truth about human interaction
• The key to unlocking human connection

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

It looks like everywhere you turn every one is talking about what they do, their job titles, who they report to, yada yada yada.  And on top of what we do, we're working moms, wives, taking care of parents and side hustling.  And while there's some temporary pleasure and satisfaction that comes with the humble brag and painting this rosy, peachy perfect picture of our lives, if we're honest with ourselves (and each other), we're stressed out.  But that's the part we don't like to show on the gram or let people know.  We avoid talking about the fact that we are feeling stressed, overwhelmed and burnt out. 

Well in today's episode, we break the silence, admit that we are hella stressed and share how we've learned to reduce to stress and overwhelm in our lives.  This is such a great, honest and useful conversation to have anywhere and with anyone because it's a valid feeling that most people have and most are trying to manage. 

In Episode 18 of No Small Talk, we talk about:

• the networking event that inspired this conversation...the discussion from "what do you do", to talking about Nacho Cheese Doritos, to "how are you managing your stress" 
• Ebony and Sherry's personal eating habits and personal snack of choice
• the value of exercise, prayer and meditation
• Setting boundaries and saying NO!
• Seeking help and counsel from family, friends and counseling

Links and Resources Mentioned in this Episode: