Maybe "right" is the wrong word to choose. I was mainly aiming here for better understanding and conversations--I can understand that his way of engaging in talk includes less talk/more silent pauses, but I also want him to know I'm not trying to shut him up or cut him off --often I'm trying to give the verbal equivalent of "uh huh I get it, please tell me MORE."

Thanks so much for pointing out my "right" phrase. I could have worded that better.