I find that the deeper I get into the faith and the more I learn about it, that the Holy Spirit gives me opportunities to talk about it. It’s still scary but I pray for it. I don’t do it enough. I try to find one opportunity a day. Also, in addition to my cross, I wear an Immaculate Mary medal. Lots of Christians wear crosses (although I think only Catholics wear crucifixes) but only Catholics wear medals. It has started several conversations with usually fall away Catholics.
How do you know that the folks you speak with are "fallen away Catholics"? Do they wear a sign or do you just look for crucifixes?
Your folks at work are very patient to listen to you lecture them on your faith. I tend to think that it's patronizing.