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After a lovely summer off-- Specimen the Sociologist is back! This episode is actually a pre-recorded speech that I gave for an event called “Book It Like Booker,” hosted by Seattle’s very own 34th District of Democrats. I decided to build out my old podcast episode, “Forgiveness as a Social Act,” and create a new storyline: The Civic Responsibility of Forgiveness. In this episode/speech, I break down the functionality of forgiveness in a healthy society; how it assigns responsibility, enables us to communicate efficiently, and challenges the notion of what it means to be generous-- especially with our forgiveness and the narratives that we form. Enjoy today’s episode, and never forget that today is a great day to forgive!

Let's be honest. We've all been the new kid, the intern, or the youngest person in the room. We've all looked back on a conversation and thought, "I should've seen that coming." In this episode, we're exploring the science behind social naïveté and why it's not a character flaw. It's often just a lack of experience. More importantly, we're talking about the social skills that help you turn uncertainty into confidence and naivety into social intelligence. If you're learning how to navigate a new social landscape, trust yourself in a new social dynamic, or set healthier standards, this episode is for you! IG: @SpecimentheSociologist Youtube: @SpecimentheSociologist Linktree: Click Here!

Are relationships casual or is there a deeper social science at work? In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, we're going to unpack the Social Exchange Theory and the hidden "economy" behind our relationships. From friendships and dating to family and workplace dynamics, we'll explore how relationships function and what research says about the role of character, identity, and values in creating healthy connections. What's science without a bit of sensitivity? Along the way, I'll share a few personal stories, practical takeaways, and a refreshing perspective on the art of stewarding relationships well. If you've ever questioned the quality of your relationships or how to build better ones-- this episode is for you! IG: Specimen the Sociologist YT: Specimen the Sociologist Linktree: Click here!

My budding specimens! Recently, I stepped away from the podcast mic to hop onto the Love is [ ] project. This is a digital archive about whatever "love is" to you-- brought to you by anyone, from anywhere, on anything related to love. Check-out loveisblank.co + estheryute (the editor, the icon, the visionary) on IG! IG: specimenthesociologist YT: specimenthesociologist Linktree: click here!

Let's unpack how forgiveness is not an emotional response, rather it's a social act! Against a backdrop of cultural polarization and personal disconnection, I explore how unforgiveness shapes the way we show up in our relationships-- and how choosing forgiveness can restore curiosity, responsibility and positively impact society. IG/YouTube: Specimen the Sociologist

Let's debunk what it means to be confident! While folks may limit it to a feeling, I'd argue that confidence is the alignment between your core values and your behavior. If you want to learn how confidence can stabilize your social interactions, produce relational clarity, and bring you contentment-- this podcast is for you! Instagram: @specimenthesociologist Youtube: @specimenthesociologist Linktree: Click Here!

In this episode, I break down what it means to become a secure individual! We explore attachment theory, people-pleasing, and how identity, honesty, and sensitivity shape the way we show up in our relationships. You may not be fully secure at all times, but you can have a secure approach to life! Instagram: @specimenthesociologist Threads: @specimenthesociologist

Let’s talk about the science behind people-pleasing. While it’s often dismissed as a personality trait, people-pleasing is actually a learned behavior shaped by social structures, power dynamics, and our fundamental need for belonging. From Goffman’s dramaturgy to Asch’s conformity experiments, we’ll unpack the sociology behind people-pleasing—and explore how to break free from these patterns. Press play and let’s learn together! IG: @specimenthesociologist

We’re closing out our anxiety mini-series with a review of The Anxious Generation. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt explores how childhood has shifted from play-based to phone-based—and how that shift fuels rising anxiety, depression, and disconnection. In this episode, I break down Haidt’s key insights and share practical ways to build a more resilient generation by strengthening identity and core values—not just cutting screen time. Topics include: Why adolescent brains are especially vulnerable Cultural forces driving disconnection How phone-based childhood impacts mental health and identity Solutions for creating healthier pathways for kids and teens IG: @specimenthesociologist

If you’ve been on this planet for more than two seconds, you’ve probably had your trust betrayed—or betrayed someone else’s. Fear not—your favorite specimen is here to unpack the science of trust: how it’s built, how to identify trustworthy people, and how to become one yourself! Specimen Linktree: Click here!

In this episode, I dive into the Sociology of SNAP—the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—and explore how it reflects America’s values, inequalities, and systems of social control. From the history of food stamps to the modern fight against hunger, I unpack how food, policy, and society are all connected. Small business spotlight: Mojito_cf (Instagram) Specimen Linktree: Click here

I’m back with a cheeky voice memo! This time, I’m exploring the lost art of writing a handwritten letter. In an age of digital messages and quick texts, a letter is a value-based way to communicate that truly brings us closer. You know the drill—listen, share, and don’t forget to subscribe. Sincerely, Yours truly, Kind regards, Cordially yours, Jessamyn Reichmann.

Let's talk about Anxiety! Nope-- I'm not talking about Doechii's song called "Anxiety," I'm talking about an experience that we all share. In this episode, we'll be exploring the sociology of anixety, discussing its definitions, societal trends, and the impact of social media. The conversation delves into two sociological theories—Structural Strain Theory and Postmodern Theory—to understand how societal pressures shape anxiety. I will offer practical solutions (specimen solutions) for managing anxiety, emphasizing the importance of viewing disruptions as opportunities, using anxiety as a roadmap, and the power of forgiveness. The episode concludes with personal reflections on the importance of being present and the benefits of stepping back from social media. If you're curious to learn-- press play and turn that volume up! Resources: DJ Nayiram (IG: djnayiram) Specimen the Sociologist LinkTree: Click here!

Hey there, hi there! What better way to wrap-up our loneliness series then by with a book review. In Project UnLonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection, Author Dr. Jeremy Noble investigates loneloiness not just as a deeply personal experince, but as a widespread public health issue. If your curious to learn more about loneliness from a medical standpoint with a sprinkle of creative problem-solving, this podcast is the one for you! Topics discussed: The biological and psychological science of loneliness.The social drivers of disconnection (from stigma to structural inequality).The healing power of creativity, especially for those feeling marginalized or unseen.Practical steps for how individuals, communities, and institutions can respond to the loneliness epidemic. IG: specimenthesociologist

In this episode of Specimen the Sociologist, we explore the principle of identity — how it’s formed, what it reveals about us, and why it matters for the health of our relationships and society. Drawing from both sociology and lived experience, Jessamyn Reichmann breaks down how identity takes shape through isolation, conflict, and subtraction. Whether you’re navigating loneliness, disappointment, or simply trying to understand yourself more clearly, this episode offers a thoughtful lens on how identity can serve as both a mirror and a foundation for meaningful change. *The feedback is a wee-bit spicy on this episode! However, the overall message from this podcast is still powerful. Business spotlight: Seattle Jazz Fellowship (@seattlejazzfellowship on IG) Want to sow into this future of this podcast? Donate here.