[em-bee]

yes, join an activity where you have to actively do something together. the conversation will then focus around what you are doing.

when you play boardgames you talk to learn the rules of the game and you use the player interactions that make up the game.

when you volunteer you talk about the work needs to be done.

any hobbies or sports you talk about how to do things.

you make connections by frequently interacting with the same people. do it long enough, be a reliable helper, and you'll make friends.