Public speaking expert: Here's my secret to making small talk 'less awkward' and 'more meaningful'

Ever had a moment where you’re talking to someone and suddenly can’t think of what to say next? It can be awkward.

Small talk is the side salad of conversation: often overlooked, occasionally soggy, but essential if you want to get to the main course of deeper connection. Whether it’s the two-minute exchange before a meeting or a quick elevator chat, these moments matter.

As a professional speaker and executive coach, I live on conversation. But I’ve also had my fair share of blank moments and stale openers. Lately, I’ve started using AI tools like ChatGPT Pro and Perplexity as strategic rehearsal partners, not just for big speeches, but for the tiny, high-impact conversations in between.

Here’s how I use AI to improve my small talk skills.

We’ve all reached for that common conversational crutch: “So, how about this weather?” AI can help you retire that line for good.