Like any essential skill, dating small talk is something you can learn, practice, and get great at. In episode 14, we look at how to turn what may feel like a chore into a chance for real connection.

Ever find yourself oversharing too many private details on a first date as a nervous reflex? Or fumbling for things to say and sitting for minutes on end in awkward silence? We’ve all been there. It may happen because you’re nervous (naturally), but it can also be that you’re unprepared, and at the crucial moments, your mind goes blank.

Small talk is what happens during any initial conversation with strangers. Which is exactly what a first date is! So let’s get into how you can craft reliable topics of date conversation to keep in your back pocket.

In this episode, Nancy introduces the concept of Content Pillars. The big three are: Greatest Hits, New Things, and Probing Questions. These Pillars are your date conversation lifesavers. They keep the dialogue moving along in the right direction. Nancy also covers Third Rail Conversations – instant chemistry killers (avoid at all costs).

Communication is the magic elixir of a good date. Even if you don’t have much in common, when you share stories that are interesting, illuminating, and engaging, you’ll encourage your date to do the same. Don’t miss this episode for the secrets to making small talk FUN.

[11:00] “Don’t walk into a date like a job interview. Keep the energy relaxed and light. Let your questions hang out in the back of your mind, but no need to stress about them. If you're swapping stories and keeping the conversation lively, you're on the right track!”