Is conversation a lost art, or is it just evolving? Journalist Joshua Johnson and social entrepreneur Blake Mycoskie answer questions on everything from the male loneliness crisis to what it actually takes to connect with others — and reveal two deceptively simple tips for going deeper with the people around you. (This conversation is part of “TED Intersections,” a series featuring thought-provoking conversations between experts navigating the ideas shaping our world.)

The secret to deeper conversations

True connection thrives when people choose questions over statements and embrace vulnerability, even if it feels uncomfortable. An annual friendship ritual spanning two decades began with one father's open regret about loneliness, while a family dinner ritual of 'I am enough' transformed a child's sense of self-worth. The art of listening, asking genuine questions, and allowing pauses creates space for more meaningful dialogue. Investing time and attention, rather than rushing or multitasking, sparks authentic relationships in a distracted world.

Deeper Conversations Begin With Curiosity, Not Perfect Answers

Real connection thrives when people prioritize curiosity over certainty and dare to ask more than they declare. One father’s regret over lost friendships inspired an annual tradition that became a lifeline for mental health. Vulnerability is not the opposite of strength, and meaningful dialogue often requires making space for discomfort. Simple shifts—like embracing silence and intentional time—can transform even casual exchanges into something lasting.