Do Conversation: There Is No Such Thing as Small Talk: Do Books Series

by Robert Poynton

Conversation is about more than communication. It’s how we connect with each other and make sense of the world; it’s an essential part of being human.

So why do some flow, while others are stilted and awkward? Can we make difficult conversations easier?

In this book, Robert Poynton explores the ‘everyday miracle’ that leads to new ideas and deeper relationships. He offers simple ways to improve our natural ability so that we overcome any anxiety, converse more skilfully and have more meaningful interactions. You

Discover it’s not about being clever, witty or winning arguments Learn to listen and hold space Find out how a simple bit of structure can make all the difference Create the conditions for more fruitful conversations The best conversations aren’t planned or one-sided; they are highly responsive, improvised exchanges. Let’s keep talking.

‘Wise, inspirational and empowering. One of the finest things I’ve read about this foundational human practice.’ – Tom Chatfield, author & tech philosopher

Robert Poynton 2025 (P) Do Books Audio 2025

Audible Audio

Published May 22, 2025

About the author

I live off grid in rural Spain, 3km outside a small town that no-one has heard of. My most recent book, 'Do - Pause', was shaped by this place and its rhythms - both natural and human. I continue to write about pause. I think we need constant reminding that our best ideas and best selves come from variation, not from being 'always on'. 'Do - Pause' received so much attention when it was published last year, that I also decided to create The Pause Project (for more information see: www.pauseproject.space).

'Do - Improvise' and 'Everything's an Offer', my two previous books, are both about improv and how the ideas and practices it rests on can help us in every day life and work. I believe that creating the conditions where good things can happen is more powerful than trying to control events or people. It is amazing to me that a body of ideas I first encountered nearly thirty years ago continue to be so helpful and so relevant.