What do you like to talk about? Politics and current events? Science and theoretical stuff? Abstract ideas? Creative critiques?
When it comes to drama, I obviously hate it, but I try to placate and mirror, give the speaker what they want to hear. If nothing else, I recognize gossip as survival tool. 

I like to ask people about their lives. Are you ready to die? What are your next goals? What do you fear most? Why do you love your wife?