Office Hours: The Big Benefits of Small Talk (with Dr. Gillian Sandstrom)

What if the key to a more connected life isn't deeper conversations with the people closest to you, but a little more chitchat with the people you barely know? Dr. Gillian Sandstrom is an associate professor in the psychology of kindness at the University of Sussex. Her research focuses on the benefits of minimal social interactions with weak ties and strangers, and on the barriers that stop us from connecting with each other. She is also the author of the latest book, Once Upon a Stranger: The Science of How Small Talk Can Add Up to a Big Life. Dr. Miriam sits down with Dr. Gillian to take small talk far more seriously than its name suggests. Defining small talk is no small feat, and Gillian explains why even she does not love the term. They get into her small talk origin story (a hot dog stand, a cupcake on the subway, and a dad who cannot stop talking to strangers), why we are taught "don't talk to strangers" and what that costs us, and why strangers can sometimes be better confidants than the people we are closest to. You will learn why our fears about awkward silences are often bigger than the silences themselves, how to reframe rejection, and what introverts can do to cope before and during conversations. Plus, Dr. Miriam's shares a tiny habit called "social savoring," that makes everyday moments of connection count. This one is for anyone who needs a reminder that every friend you’ve ever had was once a stranger. Pull up a chair, Office Ours are in session. -- Follow your new friend: @drgilliansandstrom Check out Dr. Gillian's book, Once Upon a Stranger: The Science of How “Small” Talk Can Add Up To a Big Life: https://gilliansandstrom.com/ Your friendship questions deserve answers. Reach out at [email protected], on social media or, pick up the phone and call or text with your friendship story or questions at 615-PODLINE (That's 615-763-5463). Stay in touch with us: @thetwopeasonapod @miriamkirmayer www.miriamkirmayer.com -- Two Peas on a Pod is hosted by Dr. Miriam Kirmayer. Executive produced by Zoe Travis, Matthew Hoffman, Katya Kaminsky, and Dr. Miriam Kirmayer. Produced and edited by Podcast Nation (Producers: Madison Brit and Alesha Pannier, Audio Engineer: Miles Carter). Original music by Sarah Walk. Created by Zoe Travis and Matthew Hoffman. Two Peas on a Pod is recorded in Montreal and Los Angeles. Cover photo by Katya Kaminsky. Today's show contains information that is for educational and entertainment purposes only. This program is not a substitute for psychological or medical advice. Please seek out your own support and research as needed. Take care, friends. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.