About
What is Big Talk?
Skip the small talk, and make more meaningful connections.
Big Talk is a communication approach for skipping small talk to make genuine, meaningful connections with those around you – loved ones, colleagues, classmates, teammates, community members, or even total strangers. By prompting deep, open-ended questions, Big Talk conversations allow people to share life stories, lessons, and experiences, enriching relationships profoundly.
Why make Big Talk?
Big Talk fights the loneliness epidemic by promoting genuine interactions, empathy, community building, and storytelling. While technology connects us globally, it often hinders our ability to engage meaningfully in face-to-face conversations. Learning to make Big Talk not only combats feelings of isolation but also boosts communication skills, strengthens relationships, and fosters a greater sense of belonging within our communities at work, home, and school – and in the broader world.
Big Talk’s Purpose
Big Talk is a global movement dedicated to combating loneliness, nurturing community, and fostering curiosity and empathy worldwide. From engaging video series and thought-provoking question games to educational programs and cultural events, Big Talk encourages people to share their stories and connect on a deeper level. By embracing our differences and celebrating our shared experiences, Big Talk aims to bring people closer together and create a more connected world through authentic conversations.
History
10 years ago, Kalina Silverman started Big Talk as an experimental video project to overcome feelings of loneliness. Although she met new people each day, she felt a sense of disconnection, fueled by the superficiality of everyday interactions.
In 2014, Kalina Silverman created Big Talk to combat loneliness and disconnection. She skipped small talk and asked deeper questions like, “What do you want to do before you die?” “What are you proud of in life?” and “What has been the darkest part of your life, and how did you get through it?” The responses were profound—strangers shared their most personal stories, sparking lasting friendships and inspiring millions through her videos.
Over the years, people worldwide have shared how Big Talk transformed their lives—from reconnecting with estranged family members and finding love to opening up at work, overcoming depression, finding hope after experiencing loss, and discovering their true purpose. Inspired by this impact, Big Talk evolved into a global initiative to help people connect more openly and meaningfully.
Kalina’s viral videos have been featured in outlets like the Huffington Post, NBC News, and USA Today. Her TEDx talk has garnered 6.5 million views, and Big Talk has expanded into an app, card game, educational programs, team-building workshops, art installations, and global events.
From addressing mental health challenges to improving workplace culture, Big Talk has bridged divides and changed lives across cultures. Kalina has spoken for the U.S. State Department, major corporations, and leading universities, earning a Fulbright grant for her cross-cultural empathy research in Singapore. Today, Big Talk has reached millions, including public figures like Billie Eilish, Maria Shriver, the LA Lakers organization, and a U.S. Senator – and is used in schools, prisons, government offices, and businesses worldwide, fostering empathy and meaningful connection everywhere.
Meet the Founder
Kalina Silverman
Creator of Big Talk
Kalina created Big Talk. She travels globally to make videos, give lectures, and help teach people how to “make Big Talk” in different environments and cultures. Kalina received her degree in Broadcast Journalism from Northwestern University and spent a year working as a Fulbright Research Scholar in Singapore studying ways to use Big Talk to establish empathy across cultures. She is now a U.S. Fulbright Ambassador.
Skip the small talk: What do you want to do before you die?
Before I die, I want to build an eco resort that employs people in need, whether refugees fleeing conflict zones or army veterans – and provides fun cultural educational opportunities for visitors. I also hope to raise a family, paint a mural, and compose music.
It's your turn to
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