Join Alison Wood Brooks, a behavioral scientist and author of "Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves," as she unlocks the secrets to great conversations. Discover why even 'bad' small talk can forge deep connections. Learn the art of asking captivating questions and how humor is really about finding fun. Alison shares clever tricks to revive flagging discussions and explores how technology reshapes our understanding of dialogue. Get ready to rethink communication with her insightful, research-backed guidance!
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insights INSIGHT
Conversation Is a Skill
Good communication is a skill, not an innate talent.
Even those who seem naturally gifted work hard at it.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
The "TALK" Acronym
Structure conversations using the "TALK" acronym: Topics, Asking, Levity, Kindness.
Each element builds upon the other to create meaningful interactions.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Thanksgiving Conversation
Mo Bunnell shares a Thanksgiving conversation with his family about core identity heuristics.
The intentional topic sparked a meaningful discussion.
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Give to Grow, Invest in Relationships to Build Your Business and Career
Give to Grow, Invest in Relationships to Build Your Business and Career
Mo Bunnell
Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves
Alison Wood Brooks
This book, written by Harvard Business School professor Alison Wood Brooks, delves into the complex and delicate task of conversation. It highlights how conversations can be a source of joy and connection, yet are often fraught with misinterpretation and misunderstanding. Brooks introduces the TALK Maxims—Topics, Asking, Levity, and Kindness—to help readers better understand, learn from, and delight each other in conversations. The book covers various aspects of conversation, including managing emotions, sparking creativity, navigating conflict, and being more inclusive, making it a thoughtful guide for improving relationships and leading a more purposeful life.
Think you’re either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you’re closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family.
This isn’t your standard “how-to” guide. Alison’s research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked.
Topics We Cover in This Episode:
Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections
The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate
Why humor isn’t about being funny—but about finding the fun
Alison’s favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat
How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue
Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities
Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you’ll want to try out immediately.
Real Relationships Real Revenue - Audio Edition | Invest in Relationships to Build Your Business and Your Career 
