Table Topics in Transit

"G'day". A simple syllable, a sunbeam of sound. Yet on buses, trains, and lightrail, it often lands like a leaf on concrete—unnoticed, unreturned. Still, I persist. Day after day, I deliver my cheerful greeting to strangers slouched in silence or buried in their phones.

At first, it feels futile. Faces remain frozen, eyes avert. But then—magic. A nod. A smile. A murmured “G’day” back. Regular riders begin to respond. The quiet carriage cracks open.

Soon, small talk sprouts. “Nice weather.” “Busy morning?” “Heading to work?” These fleeting phrases become fertile ground for impromptu interaction. Table Topics in transit. No script, no safety net—just spontaneous speech and shared humanity.

Each exchange is a rehearsal in real life. Confidence grows. Conversations flow. The shy become spirited. The silent, not just seen, but heard.

Alliteration aside, this isn’t just about speaking—it’s about sparking connection. About turning routine rides into rich relationships. About reminding ourselves that behind every blank stare is a story waiting to be told.

So here’s your challenge: be the brave one. Break the ice. Beam a “G’day” to the grumpy guy, the giggling girls, the grey-haired gent. Not everyone will answer. But some will. And those moments matter.

Let’s make public transport less about transit and more about transformation. One greeting at a time.

Written by Phil Newman (Chandos Challengers Toastmasters)

Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM