The Opposite of Small Talk

What if the conversations, you're craving are closer than you think, you're just afraid to ask the first question? In today's episode we explore the transformative power of meaningful conversations through the Big Talk movement, founded by Kalina Silverman. Kalina shares her journey of overcoming loneliness by engaging in deep, impactful dialogues with strangers, which has led to a global movement fostering genuine connections. We also discuss highlights from Kalina's new book, "Big Talk," available now! Guest's website: Kalina Silverman Guest's book: Big Talk by Kalina Silverman: 9780593855317 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

Most of us think kindness is about being polite or agreeable — but what if it's a sign of strength? In this thought-provoking episode, Shola Richards, a workplace civility expert and author, flips the script by revealing to Danielle and Kristy how courage, boundaries, and intentional action are at the core of real kindness. If you believe kindness is just soft or naive, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew. Guest's website: Shola Richards - Workplace Kindness Expert, International Keynote Speaker, Best-selling Author **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, Danielle and Kristy engage in a candid conversation about personal growth, identity shifts, and the importance of meaningful connections. They explore how their identities have evolved over the years including their over two-decade friendship. The discussion also delves into the need for community and the significance of having deep, honest conversations that go beyond small talk. Throughout the episode share insights on how to foster these connections and the value of being present in relationships.This Episode's Big Talk Questions: What is something about yourself that has changed in the last few years? When you think about the conversations that matter most in your life, what do they all have in common? What do you need more of in your relationships right now – and what do you need less of? **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

Most listeners are likely already familiar with the term "glass ceiling," but what about the term, "sticky floors" and the role these internal barriers can play in achieving success? Today's guest, Erica Rooney, podcaster, keynote speaker, gender equality crusader, and author of the book "Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors," explains the internal barriers to success, otherwise known as sticky floors, and explains her four step SNAP method and the practical ways it helps to overcome barriers including imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and worrying about what others think. Big Talk Question: What would you do tomorrow if you were no longer worried about being too much or not enough? **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest's Website: Keynote Speaker - Author - Gender Equality Crusader Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

As we begin a new year, what if the key to success isn't specialization, but versatility? Today's guest, Monique Lecomte, author of The Expert Generalist, help us answer this question and start the new year right. In her conversation with Danielle and Kristy, Monique suggests that the keys to success are within reach and are likely skills or interests we already possess from our life experiences.Big Talk Question: What is a skill or interest that isn't required for your career, but makes you better at it? **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest's Website: Monique Lecomte Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

www.theoppositeofsmalltalk.com/starthere With over 200 episodes it can be difficult to direct new listeners on where to start. In this episode Danielle and Kristy talk about our Signature Episodes playlist (linked above) which represent what the podcast is about and the kind of 'big talk' conversations we aim to bring to you. If you like this podcast, please consider sharing the Signature Episodes link with a friend and giving us a review on this platform. Thank you for listening - Stay Curious, and Talk Big!

We've entered the holiday season, and it's a time that's supposed to be filled with joy, but for many of us, the high expectations and full calendars can give us anxiety and a feeling of overwhelm. For those feeling that way, this episode is just in time! Today's guest, Jon Rosemberg, author of "A Guide to Thriving: The Science Behind Breaking Old Patterns, Reclaiming Your Agency, and Finding Meaning," speaks to us using his scientific research and storytelling to encourage listeners to move from survival mode to a place of thriving. Big Talk Question: If you gave yourself full permission to reclaim your agency, what is the first change you would make? **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest's Book (Affiliate Link): A Guide to Thriving: The Science Behind Breaking Old Patterns, Reclaiming Your Agency, and Finding Meaning: Rosemberg, Jon: 9781394367931: Amazon.com: Books Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

The holiday season can be particularly hard to navigate for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one, but for many people there is comfort in believing that or receiving signs from their loved ones who they feel are very much still with them. Following the loss of his daughter, today's guest, Bob Ginsberg, author and co-founder of the Forever Family Foundation, a federal 501C, alongside his late-wife Phran, began a journey into the science and evidence behind topics surrounding life after death and the certification and validation of the work of mediums. Big Talk Question: Have you ever had an experience that seemed like a message from someone who has passed away? **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest's Website: https://foreverfamilyfoundation.org/ Guest's Book: The Medium Explosion Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

As a social species we as humans are wired to seek connection with one another throughout our lives be it through romantic relationships, friendships, or family bonds. What may not feel as natural to us is cultivating partnerships professionally or networking with others because of the perception of it feeling like a transactional relationship. Today's guest, Madeline Reeves, Founder & CEO of Fearless Foundry, sits down with Danielle and Kristy to discuss the topic of Meaningful Strategic Partnership and how to remove some of the negativity or icky feelings you may have when networking or building out professional associations; she shares some of the ways she has created deeper connections in her professional life as an entrepreneur; and offers tips on some of the simple ways you can do it too. **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest's Website: https://www.fearlessfoundry.com/ Podcast: https://www.fearlessfoundry.com/findingfearless Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

Today's guest wrote, as he puts it, "a memoir with a mission." David Ambroz, author of A Place Called Home: A Memoir, sits down with Danielle and Kristy to talk about his incredible story of trial, resilience, and deep purpose. David shares his powerful story growing up homeless in New York City and navigating the foster care system; discusses the collective responsibility of society to address the systemic failures that lead to child poverty and homelessness; urges listeners to take action; and shares ways individuals can engage locally and make a difference starting in their communities. **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest's Website: Author | David Ambroz Book Affiliate Link: A Place Called Home: A Memoir TODAY'S BIG TALK QUESTION: What does home mean to you? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy's website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

In this heartfelt and deeply personal conversation, Danielle and Kristy welcome Lisa Keefauver, author of, “Grief is a Sneaky Bitch” to explore the complexities of grief, sharing personal experiences, and insights on how to navigate loss. Lisa, a grief activist and author, discusses the importance of understanding grief as a multifaceted experience that impacts our identity, relationships, and overall well-being. The conversation also touches on the challenges of showing up for others in their grief and the necessity of open communication and understanding. **Get the new Big Talk Questions – Starter Pack** Guest’s Website: Lisa Keefauver Guest’s Podcast: Grief is a Sneaky B!tch Podcast with Lisa Keefauver, MSW 7 Things To Do When Grieving, Lisa Keefauver | End Well TODAY’S BIG TALK QUESTION: What do you wish you knew about grief before you were in it? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

What if the most productive thing you could do right now… was rest? In today’s episode, we talk to leadership coach Maegan Megginson about what it really means to be deeply rested; explore how rest is not a “one size fits all;” and discuss the nuances between vacations, retreats, and sabbaticals. Guest’s Website: Home - Maegan Megginson Guest’s Podcast: Deeply Rested Podcast Landing Page - Maegan Megginson TODAY’S BIG TALK QUESTIONS: What is something that you find restful that you don’t think others would also find restful? When was the last time that you did something (other than sleep) in the name of rest? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger. Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com

Sometime too much information is the real problem in our age of constant connectivity. In today’s episode Danielle and Kristy sit down with Liane Davey, organizational psychologist to discuss the topic of workload vs. thought load and how too much of the latter is leading to serious burnout. Leanne offers practical strategies for managing thought load, including creating priority lists, understanding emotional experiences, and embracing "doing nothing" to restore creativity and productivity. Guest’s Website: Enough about Workload, the Problem is Thoughtload Resource: Time Timer Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.

We’ve reached the 200 Episode of The Opposite of Small Talk (TOOST). Join Danielle and Kristy as they celebrate this milestone with a bit of reflection, discussion of their first summer “break,” and a peek into the future of TOOST. Cheers to the 200th and here’s to 200 more opportunities to “stay curious and talk big!” Connect with us at theoppositeofsmalltalkpodcast@gmail.com Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.

What if in just five minutes a day you could completely change the way you think, perform, and handle life’s challenges? We’ll explore this question and more in today’s episode with Lindsey Wilson, a mindset and mental performance coach best known as The Sports Hypnotist™. With a professional basketball career spanning close to a decade, Lindsey took her knowledge of the mental game to work with athletes at all levels including professional athletes (including Olympians and players in the NFL and WNBA); collegiate athletes; and youth athletes early in their journey. Lindsey’s Website: Positive Performance Training | Home Get Your free Ebook: How to Become a Mental Performance Coach (without your sports psych degree). TODAY’S TALK BIG QUESTION What are some things in life that require more mental fitness than technical skill to do well? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.

In the final installment of the special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship, Danielle is once again joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. In today’s discussion, Danielle and Kerry come full circle following three episodes of discussing all things solopreneur and share the early stages of an endeavor they are working on which will aim to bring together a group of solopreneurs for what they hope will be a powerful and fruitful collaboration. Kerry Dobson: JJ Dak Inc. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.

In the third installment of the special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship, Danielle is once again joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. Today’s discussion touches on the positive aspects of being a solopreneur and the great things Danielle and Kerry have experienced including working with people you like, being true to yourself, the flexibility of making your own schedule, and creating something you love. Kerry Dobson: JJ Dak Inc. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.

In the second episode of the special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship, Danielle is once again joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. Today’s discussion touches on, “what is missing” as a solopreneur and how both Danielle and Kerry have navigated the transitions from corporate to solopreneurship including the work/life balance, setting boundaries, and deconditioning from previous corporate mindsets and habits. Next week, Summer Camp, Episode 3, Danielle and Kerry will share the upside of solopreneurship. Kerry Dobson: JJ Dak Inc. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.

In this episode of The Opposite of Small Talk (TOOST), Danielle introduces a special four-part series, Summer Camp, which explores the topic of solopreneurship. Danielle will be joined by Kerry Dobson, previous TOOST guest, respected group coaching expert, and friend of the podcast. In upcoming episodes of Summer Camp, Danielle and Kerry will discuss solopreneurship in depth including: real talk around it, lessons learned, and dispelling myths. Kerry Dobson: JJ Dak Inc. Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session.

In this special episode, live from Danielle’s hometown, Terri Trespico, award-winning writer, speaker, brand advisor, and author of “Unfollow Your Passion: How to Create a Life that Matters to You,” joins Danielle and Kristy for a funny and engaging conversation on the topic of Boredom, Creativity, and Breaking the Rules. Terri discusses her book and shares her personal insights on embracing boredom, comfort zones, and the importance of creating space for personal discovery. During the episode, Danielle and Kristy reflect on how their podcast has transformed their perspectives, with candid discussions about career, relationships, and the power of questioning conventional wisdom. Guest’s website: Home - Terri Trespicio Guest’s Book: Unfollow Your Passion - Terri Trespicio TALK BIG QUESTIONS Use these prompts to have the opposite of small talk in real life. What is something in your life that you never thought you’d do, but have since done? Thinking about your longest friendship, what is one new thing you’ve recently learned about that person? Is there something new they’ve learned about you? Is there a guest from TOOST that has really resonated with you or helped you to discover something new about yourself? Work with Danielle: If you are ready to start working with a life coach or just want to learn more about the impact that coaching can have in your life, visit Danielle's website at www.daniellemccombs.com and schedule a complimentary exploratory session. Work with Kristy: You can work with Kristy one-on-one or hire her to speak with your team to improve workplace communication. Visit Kristy’s website at www.kristyolinger.com and find her work journal at Work Journal — Kristy Olinger.