Are you an introvert who dreads small talk? Do you find yourself feeling tongue-tied and anxious in social situations? Or do you just find small talk a tedious impediment to getting to deeper, more meaningful conversations?

It's true that most introverts prefer deep conversations over small talk. Often the mysteries of the universe or how to make the world a better place are far more interesting than the weather or the price of gas.  Of course, small talk is usually the gateway to building relationships and getting to those deeper conversations, but some introverts struggle with shyness, or anxiety, or lack of skills when it comes to small talk.  The good news is that you can overcome shyness and anxiety, and you can learn the skills to improve your conversations.  

In this episode, David talks with Rich Gallagher, psychotherapist and author of "Stress-Free Small Talk: How to Master the Art of Conversation and Take Control of Your Social Anxiety."  We'll discuss strategies for being successful in conversations. We'll cover topics such as:

• The difference between shyness, social anxiety, and introversion
• How to change your thoughts around your fears
• Good conversation starters
• Making a good first impression as part of your personal brand
• How to be an active listener

Listen now to learn to improve your conversation skills and get to those conversations you are looking for.

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Richard S. Gallagher, LMFT is a psychotherapist based in upstate New York who specializes in treating anxiety disorders. A former customer service executive and public speaker, he is the author of numerous communications skills books including What to Say to a Porcupine, The Customer Service Survival Kit and How to Tell Anyone Anything. His books have been published in eight languages, and he has personally taught over 35,000 people worldwide how to communicate better in difficult interpersonal situations.

Rich has been published or featured in Time Magazine, CNN.com, BusinessWeek, Dale Carnegie training, morning drive radio, and numerous other media outlets.

Visit Rich online at www.smalltalkcoach.com

Get Rich's Book: Stress-Free Small Talk: How to Master the Art of Conversation and Take Control of Your Social Anxiety

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Contact the Host of the Quiet and Strong Podcast:

David Hall

Author, Speaker, Educator, Podcaster

quietandstrong.com
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david [at] quietandstrong.com

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