conversations are either great or awkward. It's because you're
  an independent thinker. Good conversationalists "share a brain"
  with the other person (not so independent thinkers). I've been
  told I talk either like a professor or a Court Jester (both were
  complimentary), but myf avorite thing to hear in a conversation
  is, "Wow! - me too!" or "Wow - I didn't know that! tell me more"
  (which never happens :-) ) "