Podcast
Questions and Answers
According to Judy Apps, what does she consider the positive effects of a spontaneous chat with a stranger?
According to Judy Apps, what does she consider the positive effects of a spontaneous chat with a stranger?
There are amazing possibilities that can come from a conversation with a stranger. These interactions can be life-affirming and energising for both parties' daily life.
What is one of the key reasons for the launch of the world's first module in small talk by BPP University Law School?
What is one of the key reasons for the launch of the world's first module in small talk by BPP University Law School?
Judy Apps suggests that it's not necessary to start a conversation with an open-ended question.
Judy Apps suggests that it's not necessary to start a conversation with an open-ended question.
True
According to Adrià Ballester, the founder of the Free Conversations Movement, most people are happy to talk, and even a short exchange can do a lot of good because it helps them ________________.
According to Adrià Ballester, the founder of the Free Conversations Movement, most people are happy to talk, and even a short exchange can do a lot of good because it helps them ________________.
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According to Judy Apps, what is the art of conversation similar to?
According to Judy Apps, what is the art of conversation similar to?
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What is the aim of the module launched by BPP University Law School?
What is the aim of the module launched by BPP University Law School?
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Relying on technology might hinder face-to-face interactions.
Relying on technology might hinder face-to-face interactions.
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In Finland, people feel that if there’s no important topic to discuss, there’s no conversation worth having. One of their national sayings is: 'Silence is gold, talking is _____.'
In Finland, people feel that if there’s no important topic to discuss, there’s no conversation worth having. One of their national sayings is: 'Silence is gold, talking is _____.'
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What does Adrià Ballester believe some conversations can do?
What does Adrià Ballester believe some conversations can do?
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Study Notes
The Importance of Talking to Strangers
- Judy Apps, a TEDx speaker and author, believes that striking up a conversation with someone you don't know can have a positive impact on daily life.
- Talking to strangers can be life-affirming and energizing for both parties.
Overcoming Fear and Isolation
- Many people underestimate the benefits of connecting with others in this way, while overestimating the level of discomfort they might feel.
- Engaging with and trusting people you don't know is important for personal and communal wellbeing, as well as the health of society.
The Art of Conversation
- Judy Apps compares the art of conversation to a game of bat and ball, where each person reveals a bit about themselves at each back-and-forth.
- Effortless exchanges can lead to meaningful connections.
Breaking the Ice
- Starting a conversation can be as simple as commenting on the weather.
- In England, people often use the weather as a conversation starter.
- A light-hearted approach can help overcome shyness.
The Benefits of Small Talk
- Friendly behavior towards strangers has been linked to higher self-esteem in teenagers in the US.
- In China, greater trust in strangers has been linked to better overall health.
The Free Conversations Movement
- Adrià Ballester founded the Free Conversations Movement, which aims to create spaces where people can freely express themselves.
- The movement has spread to Warsaw, Dublin, Lisbon, and has a strong global online following.
Judy Apps' Conversation Tips
Bat and Ball
- Start with a mundane subject like the weather, then throw out a non-threatening comment.
- If you receive a positive response, be a little braver next time and tag a question on the end.
Believe in the Magic
- Be willing to be vulnerable for a minute and open to what might happen.
Read the Room
- Pay attention to affirmations, not just in the words someone uses, but also in their tone of voice and body language.
Get the Balance Right
- Trust your instincts and be cautious if a stranger seems overly interested in you or is not giving anything away about themselves.
Benefits of Talking to Strangers
- Most children are taught not to talk to strangers, but as adults, striking up conversations with unknown people can feel uncomfortable and even intimidating.
- However, Judy Apps, a TEDx speaker and author, believes that talking to strangers can have a positive impact on daily life, being life-affirming and energizing for both parties.
- Even a 30-second conversation can lift one's mood and create a sense of connection.
Overcoming Fear of Talking to Strangers
- Many people overestimate the level of discomfort they would feel when reaching out to a stranger, but it's essential to identify and overcome existing roadblocks.
- An increasing reliance on technology could be one of these roadblocks, as phones can keep people from even exchanging brief smiles with others.
- Knowing your audience and being mindful of your surroundings when approaching a potential conversation is crucial.
Benefits of Friendly Behavior
- Friendly behavior towards strangers has been linked to higher self-esteem in teenagers in the US, and greater trust in strangers has been linked to better overall health in China.
- Engaging with and trusting people you don't know is important for personal and communal wellbeing, as well as the health of society.
Starting a Conversation
- Judy Apps suggests that starting a conversation with a stranger can be like a game of bat and ball, where you reveal a bit about yourself and see if the other person is interested in connecting.
- It's essential to avoid being too hard on yourself and to focus on the process rather than the outcome.
- Asking an open-ended question might not be the best way to start a conversation, as it can be seen as too demanding or intrusive.
Free Conversations Movement
- Adrià Ballester, founder of the Free Conversations Movement, wants people to experience the benefits of talking to strangers, just like he did in 2017.
- The movement aims to create spaces where people can freely express themselves and connect with others, without fear of judgment or expectation.
- The movement has extended its reach to Warsaw, Dublin, and Lisbon, and has a strong global online following.
Tips for Starting a Conversation
- Judy Apps shares five tips for starting a conversation with a new person in a safe and personally fulfilling way:
- Start with a mundane subject like the weather and throw out a non-threatening comment.
- Believe in the magic of conversation and be willing to be vulnerable.
- Read the room and look for affirmations in the other person's tone of voice and body language.
- Get the balance right and be cautious of warning signs, such as overly flattering or intrusive behavior.
- Give yourself a high five for taking the leap and talking to someone new, regardless of the outcome.
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Description
Discover the benefits of talking to strangers in a safe environment and how it can positively impact your day. Learn how a simple conversation can bring joy and enlightenment.
