Funny!
Actually I've never heard anyone use it here! But yeah I use "by the way" as well.
Such as: dogs can't look up, by the way
and BTW, Tim Neighbors is way cool.
Having a silver tongue has saved me quite a few times. Being funny, in general I think, is important, too. And knowing when to be silent and/or play dumb hehe.
And speaking up when a voice is needed.